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. Kilmallock considered for fortification as Williamite retreat

   Kilmallock · town · Limerick · 1691

   When it was debated in William's camp whether to raise the siege of Limerick, an engineer was dispatched to Kilmallock to fortify it as a place of retreat or winter quarters, but was countermanded before the plan was carried out.

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   iStill fears filled the minds of the besiegers^ and parties were constantly sent out to harass the country. Ballingarry and Bruree were burned, and Captain John O'Dell^ was posted at Athlacca with mUitia and dragoons. It was quite well known in WiUiam's camp that unless this stratagetic movement was successfully effected, it would be impossible to make a decisive attack upon the city, though shot and shell were vehemently and constantly poured into it from the guns and mortars of the besiegers. So hard pushed had been the besiegers, that it was disputed in WiUiam's camp whether the siege should be raised and a blockade instituted. For a time it was carried m favor of raising the siege, and of abandoning the strong and obstinate old city ; but as an engineer was proceeding to Kilmallock, for the purpose of fortifying it as a place of retreat or for winter quarters, in the event of the abandonment of Limerick, he was countermanded; and on the 18th of September, orders were sent to the men of war and other English vessels in the river, to set some men on shore in the county of Clare, to destroy all the forage, as it was harvest time. Giakle's war materials was literally enormous.^

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

   Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 143

2. Lady Margaret and President meet at Kilmallock

   Kilmallock · town · Limerick · 1600

   O'Connor sent word to the President to gather forces at Kilmallock. Lady Margaret met him there to deliver £1000 promised for the prisoner, reporting that Castleishin was besieged by rebels.

   Read the passage

   brother to the Lord Caliir and with his privity, by the treachery of an Irish sentinel, surprised the Castle of Cahir, but by way of set off, Owen Grace, the Governor of Loughgur Castle, delivered it up for a bribe, " not exceeding i,60." On the 30th of the same month, the President took Ballytarsney Castle, which the ward had deserted, and in which there was a great quantity of corn ; part of his army destroyed Owney ; the whole army then returned to Limerick, and garrisons were placed in Askeaton, Liccadownc, Kilmallock and Limerick.' Before the President departed from Limerick, the Earl of Thomond invited him to the Castle of Bunratty. Captain Gawen Harvie, who had sailed from Cork the day the President marched from that City, anchored in the Shannon, and brought with him, to the comfort of the army, money, munition, provisions and clothing for the soldiers ; a timely relief which prevented the loss of the summer service.^ The next morning, Captain Harvie was directed to go to the quay of Limerick, where after landing his charge, the President ordered him to go down the river with his ship and anchor opposite Glyn Castle, until he and the army had presented themselves before it. Dermot O'Connor, while the Sugan Earl lay in prison, took Ballyalinan, another Castle, belonging to Eory MacSheehy,^ and the president being in Limerick, O'Connor sent John Power, one of the ransoms, to tell him to draw all the forces he could gather to Kilmallock, which he did, and there the Lady Margaret after some days met him, in order that he should receive the sum of £1000 which was promised on the delivery of the prisoner. She told the President that Castleishin was besieged by the rebels, that her delay was occasioned by the dangers that lay in the road. The President proposed to raise the siege ; but before the army had moved a mile, a messenger came and stated that the Earl had been rescued that morning, and that he saw him out of the Castle.*

   • Hibernia Pacata.

   Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 68

3. Lancasterian education committee formed in Limerick

   Limerick · city · Limerick · 1812

   On January 27th, 1812, a committee was appointed at a meeting in the Commercial Buildings to establish a Lancasterian education system for the poor. Joseph Lancaster arrived in Limerick and read public lectures at the assembly house on education.

   Read the passage

   1812 — January 27. A committee appointed at a general meeting held at the Commercial Buildings, to draw up rules and regulations for a system of education for th-", benefit of the poor, on the Lancasterian plan. Mr. Joseph Lancaster, who had arrived in Limerick a few daj's before, attended, and read public lectures at the assembly house twice on the subject of education.

   Februarj- 4. A dreadful storm arose from N.W., about four o'clock, a.ji., and did much damage to the shipping in the harbour — the tide rose to a great height, and covered the quays — the morning was dark, and the gale quite unexpected. The preceding night had been nearly calm. The mercury in the barometer stood at 29 three-tenths inches ; part of the roof and side wall of the old diocesan school, which had been long since abandoned as a seat of literature, and was a mere lazaretto, inhabited by a number of most indigent poor, fell, and in the fall buried many in the ruins. No lives lost — the building totally eradicated in the next 3-ear.

   Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 237

   As the companion tells it

   As you pass through Limerick, this is where, on January 27, 1812, a committee was appointed at a general meeting held at the Commercial Buildings, to draw up rules and regulations for a system of education for the benefit of the poor, on the Lancasterian plan. Joseph Lancaster had arrived in Limerick a few days before. He attended the meeting and read public lectures at the assembly house twice on the subject of education. Just over a week later, on February 4, a dreadful storm arose from the northwest about four o'clock in the morning and did much damage to the shipping in the harbour. The tide rose to a great height and covered the quays. The morning was dark and the gale quite unexpected, the preceding night having been nearly calm. The mercury in the barometer stood at 29 and three-tenths inches. Part of the roof and side wall of the old diocesan school, long since abandoned as a seat of literature and a mere lazaretto inhabited by a number of most indigent poor, fell and buried many in the ruins. No lives were lost. The building was totally eradicated the next year.

4. Last Catholics in office before Ireton's siege

   Limerick · city · Limerick · 1651

   In 1651 Peter Fitz Peter Creagh and his sheriffs were the last Catholics in office in Limerick. This was the year of Ireton's siege, after which the mayoralty was vacant for four years and governed by a military governor.

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   These were the last Calholics in office in Limerick.

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

   Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 407

   As the companion tells it

   As you pass through Limerick, this city marks a turning point. In 1651, Peter Fitz Peter Creagh and his sheriffs were the last Catholics holding office here. That was the year of Ireton's siege. After it, the mayoralty stood vacant for four years, and a military governor ruled the city.

5. Lausun pronounces Limerick indefensible

   Limerick · city · Limerick · 1690–1691

   Boisseleau was Governor of Limerick while French generals including Lausun were present in the city. Lausun, on first seeing Limerick, pronounced it could not be defended, and some French generals speedily evacuated.

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   Generals were in the city, but some of them speedily evacuated itj' they had no desire to fight for Ireland ; when Lausun saw Limerick first he pronounced that it could not be defended ;2 he who had been at Valenciennes

   Dare was an old prophecy found in a bog ; Lilli, &c. " Ireland shall be rul'd by an ass and a dog ;" Lilli, &c.

   Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 123

6. Limerick burned again by Turlogh and Lagenians (1063)

   Limerick · city · Limerick · 1063

   Turlogh and the Lagenians burned Limerick in 1063 and exacted hostages throughout Munster, as Donogh's deposition became imminent.

   Read the passage

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

   ' Annals of Four Masters.

   Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 18

   As the companion tells it

   As you come through Limerick, the city carries a history of repeated burning. In 1063, Turlogh and the Lagenians burned Limerick once more and exacted hostages throughout Munster. This was part of a wider upheaval. Donogh's deposition had become a proximate event. Diarmid had invaded Munster, burned Limerick and Emly, and defeated Donogh in a severe battle in the glen of Aherlow. Hugh O'Connor destroyed Kiucora, with the town and Church of Killaloe. Then came Turlogh and the Lagenians, burning Limerick again in 1063 and taking hostages across Munster. At last, utterly defeated by Turlogh and the King of Leinster at the foot of the Ardagh mountains, Donogh abdicated the crown of Munster, transferring his royal honors to his nephew. He afterwards set out on a pilgrimage to Rome, hoping to atone for his sins. He died there, in the Monastery of St. Stephen, in 1064, with every appearance of sincere penitence. Some writers assert that Donogh left the crown and regalia of Ireland with the Pope and made over his kingdom, an empty compliment if it took place at all, which is not probable, as it is not mentioned by any of the old annalists. Those who tell this story add that the crown was afterwards given to Henry the Second by Pope Adrian the Fourth, after the Norman conquest.

7. Limerick city charter boundary surveyed with named landmarks

   Limerick · city · Limerick

   The Earl of Thomond and commissioners measured the three-mile boundary of the county of the city of Limerick from the city wall, naming specific landmarks including the great stone called Legancampyne, Craggenecorbally, and Crattlaghmoell castle on the Shannon.

   Read the passage

   great stone standing in the Hedge called Legancampyne, and from the said stone to Craggenecorbally, mearing with the Lord Bishop's and Brienduife's land, and so along the highway till it conies to the heap of stones called Lishdermode Ikallie, and so to Shananc, in the highway, betwixt Tirevowoughtragh on the west, and Tirevowoughtragh on the east. The great castle of Crattlaghmoell on the north of the Shannon standeth right over against this way, mearing Tirevowoughtragh west, and Tirevowoughtragh on the east. We, the said Earl of Thomond, and others of the Commissioners before named, having measured from the exterior part of the wall of the said city of Limerick to the boimds, mears, and limits before expressed, do leave and include as well all the towns, castles, and hamlets before-named, with all and singular their members and appurtenances, as all other towns, lands, fields, roads, meadows, pastures, commons, and appurtenances to the same belonging, between the bounds aforesaid and the Avails of the said city, to be of and in the county of the city of Limerick, and within the comp.ass of the three miles jrranted by his Majesty by his llighness's charter to the ninyor, sheriffs, and citizens of Limerick. In witness whereof we, the said E;irl and others of the said commi.ssioners, to this part of tiiis Indenture to be rctornoil and remain in his MajestyV High Court of Chancery in Ireland, among the records of the same, l»ave set our hands and se.ils the day and year above written — Thomond, Bernard Limic, Ffra Barkeley, Thomas Browne.

   ' Report of Commi.ssioners of Public Records.

   Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 74

   As the companion tells it

   Limerick is a city on the Shannon, and the road passes through it. In the time of the charter, the county of the city ran three miles out from the city wall. The Earl of Thomond and a set of commissioners walked that line and set down what they found. They began at a great stone standing in a hedge, called Legancampyne, and ran from there to Craggenecorbally, mearing with the Lord Bishop's land and Brienduife's land. Then they went along the highway to a heap of stones called Lishdermode Ikallie, and on to Shananc, in the highway, betwixt Tirevowoughtragh on the west and Tirevowoughtragh on the east. The great castle of Crattlaghmoell stood on the north of the Shannon, right over against this way. Having measured from the exterior part of the wall of the city to those bounds, the Earl and the commissioners declared that all towns, castles, hamlets, lands, fields, roads, meadows, pastures, and commons between those bounds and the city walls belonged to the county of the city of Limerick, within the compass of the three miles granted by his Majesty's charter to the mayor, sheriffs, and citizens. They set their hands and seals to the indenture, to be returned and remain among the records of his Majesty's High Court of Chancery in Ireland. The names at the foot were Thomond, Bernard Limric, Ffra Barkeley, and Thomas Browne.

8. Limerick Corporation exactions crush local farming

   Limerick · city · Limerick

   The Limerick Corporation's rapacious tolls and exactions made trade intolerable for neighbouring farmers and gentlemen, deterring many from growing corn altogether since Limerick was their only market. The Protestants resolved to appeal to Parliament for redress.

   Read the passage

   such unscrupulous rapacity that they defied every effort to make things in any degree tolerable to the neighbouring farmers and gentlemen^ whom, in many cases, they deterred from growing corn at all, there being no other market but Limerick, and the exactions being so insufferable that the agriculturists could not sustain tliem.^ This state of things continuing, and the oppressions becoming more intolerable and cruel every day, the Protestants resolved to appeal to Parliament for redress. A curious correspondence took place between Mr. O^Donnell, secretary to the free citizens, and Dan. Hayes, Esq.2 In a letter to Hayes, the secretary

   Isaac Jaques, Joseph Jaques, James Greene, Thomas Hopkins. Edward Casey. James Hill. Robert Davis, 17G1. Thomas Allev.

   Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 197

   As the companion tells it

   As you pass through Limerick, this was a city whose Corporation once ground down the farming country around it. Their tolls and exactions were of such unscrupulous rapacity that they defied every effort to make things tolerable for the neighbouring farmers and gentlemen. Many were deterred from growing corn at all, there being no other market but this city, and the exactions being so insufferable that the agriculturists could not sustain them. The oppressions became more intolerable and cruel every day. At length the Protestants resolved to appeal to Parliament for redress. A curious correspondence followed between Mr. O'Donnell, secretary to the free citizens, and Dan. Hayes.

9. Limerick customs revenue collapses compared to Galway

   Limerick · city · Limerick · 1278–1282

   The net produce of Limerick customs fell dramatically, reaching only 1s. 6d. on Pipe Roll no. 17, while Galway's customs for the same period reached £18 4s. 5½d. Limerick's trade and commerce fell rapidly as Galway advanced.

   Read the passage

   from Michaelmas in the 8th year of Edward I. to Easter in the 10th year of that king, Avas only £31 5s. 2d. — soon afterwards the trade and commerce of the city fell rapidly, whilst Galway as rapidly advanced. On Pipe Roll no. 17, the nett produce of the customs of Limerick, appeals to have amounted only to Is. 6d. for a period when in Galway it reached, for the same time, £18 4s. 5|d. We do not wonder that Mr. Hardiman, the historian of Galway, should boast of the comparatively flourishing condition of the city of the tribes ; but Limerick was not destined to remain always in a secondary position. In after years not only was Galway left behind in the march of commercial enterj^rize, but it was thrown completely into the shade. At this period the citizens felt aggrieved in reference to the salmon and eel fisheries of the Shannon, and sent forward a petition to the king which was promptly responded to. The fisheries continued to be a source of very great mterest ; and several important matters relatmg to them appear on the records during the reign of Edward I. which show the attention which was paid by the crown to them at this period, and the regular accounts sent on of the revenues, as well as the payments made to the bishop.^ Eobert de Saint Edmond obtained a grant of the weirs, &c., but after he had petitioned, his rent for them yearly was fixed at twenty marcs. The grant of Thomond by Edward I. to Thomas de Clare had its effect not only on Limerick, but on the province of Munster, and more so on the province of Conuaught. This event took place in the year 1275 ; and to this day traces of it are found in every part of the great county to which de Clare gave his own name — a name which in after years became historical and cherished in the warm affections of the Irish people. Limerick continned to progress, though Galway possessed more facihties as a port, and though so far back as the year 1277, Dermod More O'Brien of Tromra, county Clare, received twelve tuns of wine yearly as a tribute from the merchants of Galway " in consideration of protecting the harbour and trade from aU pirates and privateers, by mamtauiing a suitable maritime force for the purpose.''''^

   Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 36

   As the companion tells it

   Coming through Limerick now. In the years around 1278 to 1282, this city's customs revenue collapsed. The net produce from the customs of Limerick amounted to only one shilling and sixpence on Pipe Roll number 17. For that same period, Galway's customs reached eighteen pounds, four shillings, and fivepence halfpenny. The trade and commerce of Limerick fell rapidly while Galway advanced just as fast. The historian of Galway, Mr. Hardiman, boasted of the flourishing condition of the city of the tribes. But Limerick was not destined to remain always in a secondary position. The citizens felt aggrieved about the salmon and eel fisheries of the Shannon and sent a petition to the king, which was promptly responded to. The fisheries remained a source of great interest. Robert de Saint Edmund obtained a grant of the weirs, but after he petitioned, his yearly rent for them was fixed at twenty marks. The grant of Thomond by Edward I to Thomas de Clare in 1275 had its effect on Limerick, on Munster, and on Connaught. Traces of it are found to this day in the county to which de Clare gave his name. Limerick continued to progress, though Galway possessed more facilities as a port. As far back as 1277, Dermod More O'Brien of Tromra in county Clare received twelve tuns of wine yearly as a tribute from the merchants of Galway, in consideration of protecting the harbour and trade from all pirates and privateers by maintaining a suitable maritime force for the purpose.

10. Limerick Improvement Act dissolves St. Michael's Parish Commissioners

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1853

    The Commissioners of St. Michael's Parish, a taxing body for Limerick's New Town constituted under Acts of George III, were dissolved when the Limerick Improvement Act received royal assent. Their powers were transferred to the Reformed Municipal Corporation, and Limerick's five wards were redivided into eight.

    Read the passage

    of St. Michael's Parish, as they were called, continued in existence until December 1st, 1853, when the Acts of Parliament, by which they were constituted a taxing body for the New Town, viz., 47 Geo. III. c. 75, and 51st Geo. III. c. 104, were repealed by the Limerick Improvement Act, 16th Victoria, which received the royal assent on the 15th of August in that year (1853). The power which had been so long and so well exercised by the Commissioners, was transferred to the Eeformed Municipal Corporation ; and in the same year " the Limerick Corporation Act,'' 16th and 17tk Vic, c. 73, was passed, by which the five wards into which Limerick was divided by the Municipal Eeform Act of 1842, were divided into eight wards ; and other changes were made in the constitution of the Town Council.

    The New Town increased in size and importance under the Commissioners, and became proverbial for cleanliness and order. On the 14th May, in 1807, at a Common Council, held in the Council Chamber, Exchange, Eichard Harte, Esq., Mayor, in the chair, the freedom of the city, in a gold box, was voted, with a complimentary address, to the Duke of Eichmond, Lord Lieutenant of Ireland ; and on the same day it was also unanimously resolved that a congratulatorv address and the freedom of the city in a gold box, be presented to the Eight Hon. Sir Arthur Wellesley, K.B., and Chief Secretary to the Lord Lieutenant. In this address it is said that Sir Arthur Wellesley is closely attached by noble birth and hereditary property to this part of the Empire. It was further resolved, that Colonel Charles Vereker, M.P., should present the addresses, which he did in a suitable manner, and for which His Excellency and Sir Arthur Wellesley returned their warmest acknowledgments.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 238

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Limerick, the city carries the mark of a change in its governance from 1853. The Commissioners of St. Michael's Parish had long served as the taxing body for Limerick's New Town, constituted under Acts of Parliament passed in the reign of George III. They continued in existence until December 1st, 1853, when those acts were repealed by the Limerick Improvement Act, which received the royal assent on August 15th of that year. The powers the Commissioners had exercised were transferred to the Reformed Municipal Corporation. In the same year, the Limerick Corporation Act was passed, and the five wards into which Limerick had been divided by the Municipal Reform Act of 1842 were redivided into eight wards, with other changes made to the constitution of the Town Council. The New Town had grown in size and importance under the Commissioners, and had become proverbial for cleanliness and order. Before this dissolution, on May 14th, 1807, a Common Council was held in the Council Chamber at the Exchange, with Richard Harte, Mayor, in the chair. The freedom of the city, in a gold box, was voted with a complimentary address to the Duke of Richmond, Lord Lieutenant of Ireland. On the same day, it was unanimously resolved that a congratulatory address and the freedom of the city in a gold box be presented to the Right Honourable Sir Arthur Wellesley, Chief Secretary to the Lord Lieutenant. The address noted that Sir Arthur Wellesley was closely attached by noble birth and hereditary property to this part of the Empire. Colonel Charles Vereker, M.P., was resolved to present the addresses, which he did, and for which His Excellency and Sir Arthur Wellesley returned their warmest acknowledgments.

11. Limerick in wasted condition; Thomond Bridge repairs urged

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1569

    Sidney visited Limerick a second time in 1569 and established Sir John Perrot as President of Munster. State Papers noted the city was in a wasted condition, and the Deputy recommended building a bridge, likely prompting repairs to Thomond Bridge.

    Read the passage

    Gerald, the Earl of Desmond, was removed from Limerick to London by the intrigues of Ormonde, and imprisoned in the tower, where were also confined at the time, the Baron of Dungannon, O'Connor Sligo, O'Carrol, and other Irish chiefs, most of whom made submission to the Queen in 1568, when they were enlarged. Sidney visited Limerick a second time in 1569, where he established Sir John Perrot in the office of President of Munster. In CoUins' State Papers it is said that the city was in a wasted condition at this time, and that the Deputy recommended the building of a bridge here — most likely it was in consequence of his recommendation that Thomond Bridge underwent some repairs.^ Sidney's anxiety respecting bridge-building did not rest with recommendations — he built the bridge of Athlone in 1568.^

    ' Arthur MSS. * Nicholson's Irish Historical Library.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 58

    As the companion tells it

    You are coming through Limerick now. In 1569, Sidney visited this city for a second time and established Sir John Perrot as President of Munster. Collins' State Papers record that Limerick was in a wasted condition at that time. The Deputy recommended building a bridge here, and it was most likely in consequence of that recommendation that Thomond Bridge underwent some repairs. Sidney's concern with bridge-building did not stop at recommendations. He built the bridge of Athlone in 1568. The year before all this, Gerald, the Earl of Desmond, had been removed from Limerick to London by the intrigues of Ormonde and imprisoned in the Tower. The Baron of Dungannon, O'Connor Sligo, O'Carrol, and other Irish chiefs were confined there too. Most of them made submission to the Queen in 1568 and were then enlarged.

12. Limerick mourns death of O'Connell

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1847

    On 27 May 1847, intelligence of Daniel O'Connell's death at Genoa reached Limerick. The city at once assumed the garb of mourning for the foremost man of his age, who had died on a foreign shore.

    Read the passage

    On the 27th of May the intelligence was received in Limerick of the death of O'Connell at Genoa. The city at once assumed the garb of mourning. The foremost man of his age had died on a foreign shore, sore at heart at the situation of his country, the frustration of his hopes, and the

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 289

    As the companion tells it

    Coming up near Limerick, a city that in 1847 received word on the 27th of May that Daniel O'Connell had died at Genoa. Limerick at once put on the garb of mourning. The foremost man of his age had died on a foreign shore, sore at heart at the situation of his country, the frustration of his hopes.

13. Linen Hall built in Carr-street by Chamber of Commerce

    Carr Street · street · Limerick · 1807–1865

    The Chamber of Commerce built a Linen Hall in Carr-street, Limerick, at an expenditure of some thousands of pounds, to promote the linen trade. It had long since fallen away from its original purpose and was greatly dilapidated by 1865.

    Read the passage

    The Chamber of Commerce began to initiate several movements for the development of industrial pursuits in the county as well as in the city of Limerick ; it gave premiums for the produce of linen, and for yarn and flax sold in the market ; it built, or contributed to build, at an expenditure of some thousands of pounds, a Linen Hall* in Carr-street, which has long since fallen away from the purposes to which it was originally dedicated ; it erected Scutching mills at Abington and Bruff, in the County of Limerick, which mills are also numbered among the things of the past ; it imported seed wheat, barley and oats,

    ' It was on this occasion that his Excellency conferred knighthood on the Mayor, who then became Sir Richard Harte, and on the Sheriff, Sir Christopher Marrett. There was no city or town in Ireland visited by the Duke of Richmond in which he did not confer knighthood ono ne or sometimes on two or three persons, just as fancy suggested.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 238

    As the companion tells it

    Along here on Carr Street in Limerick, the Chamber of Commerce built a Linen Hall at a cost of some thousands of pounds. That was part of a wider effort by the Chamber to develop industry in the city and county. They gave premiums for linen produce, and for yarn and flax sold in the market. They also erected scutching mills at Abington and Bruff in County Limerick, and they imported seed wheat, barley and oats. But the Linen Hall has long since fallen away from the purposes to which it was originally dedicated. By 1865 it was greatly dilapidated. The scutching mills too are numbered among the things of the past. What began as a serious investment in the linen trade left only a faded building on this street, its original use long gone.

14. Lord Fitzmaurice of Kerry writes from Lixnaw

    Lixnaw · town · Kerry · 1565

    Lord Fitzmaurice, writing from Lixnaw on 6 July, responded to a complaint made by the bishop against him, calling the complaint a 'false book.' The nature of the original complaint does not appear in the state papers.

    Read the passage

    quiring liim to repair to them speedily, bringing with him the Countess of Desmond, if possible, and that they would bear his charges. He, accompanied by the countess, accordingly reached Cork on the 21st. What was done there does not appear from the state papers, but on the 19th March, they wrote a joint letter to the Lord Justice, in which the countess thanks him for his care of the Earl of Desmond's lands, tenants, and followers [he was then in London Tower], and beseeching that James Fitzmaurico might rule in the earl's absence. Shortly after, the bishop wrote to the Lords Justices complaining of Thomas Lord Fitzmaurice of Kerry. The nature of the complaint does not appear, but Lord Fitzmaurice, writing from Lixnaw on the 6 th July, calls it a false book. Desmond wrotehim from the Tower on 18th November, requesting him to assist in executing justice to poor and rich, to help in collecting money, that is, the earl's rents,^ and stating that Donoghow Cassbie,' Chancellor of Limerick, would not give a penny for his discharge. Li other letters he frequently and bitterly complains of Casshie's conduct in detaining his money. The very same year,^ when Dr. Creagh, before mentioned, was a prisoner in the Tower oi London, it appears by the Consistory Acts in the Vatican Archives, that O'Hairt, Bishop of Achonry, was recommended by Cardinal Morone to administer Armagh, and at the same time, the Bishop of Limerick to be chosen by the Apostohc See to give testimonials for the provinces of Munster and Leinster to those clergy who went to Rome.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 335

15. Lord Muskerry elected General in Chief of Limerick Volunteers

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1781

    On 22 September 1781, Lord Muskerry was elected General in Chief of the Volunteer army in the county and city of Limerick. At this period the Irish Volunteers numbered 40,000 men, described as the finest in Europe.

    Read the passage

    Lord Muskerry, on the 22nd of September following, was elected General in Chief of the Volunteer army in the county and city of Limerick. At this period the Irish Volunteers numbered 40,000 men ; the finest in Europe ; and they obtained the thanks of both Houses of Parliament as follows : —

    " MaRTIS, 9 DIE OCTOBRIS, 1781

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 221

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Limerick, this city saw Lord Muskerry elected General in Chief of the Volunteer army in the county and city of Limerick on 22 September 1781. At that time the Irish Volunteers numbered 40,000 men, described as the finest in Europe. On 9 October 1781 they received the thanks of both Houses of Parliament.

16. Martin Arthur's marble peristyle at St. Saviour's, Limerick

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1330–1360

    According to the Arthur MSS., Martin Arthur built a magnificent peristyle of marble for the church of St. Saviour in Limerick around the mid-14th century.

    Read the passage

    About this time, according to the Arthur MSS., Martin Arthur built a magnificent peristyle of marble to the church of St. Saviour in Limerick.

    1345, John O'Grady, Treasurer of Cashel, and for a time Rector of O'Griffin, in the diocese of Killaloe, succeeded by the election of Dean and Chapter to the Archbishopric of Cashel, and having procured recommendatory letters from the King to the Pope (dated 10th October, 1331) was by his provision placed in that see (Cashel) in 1332. " A mark", says Hogan, the author of the Annals of Nenagh " of great wisdom and industry". He died in Limerick on the 8th day of July, 1345, in th.e Dominican habit, and was buried there in a monastery of that order. He made many donations to his church, and in that particular gave it a large pastoral staff.*

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 372

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Limerick, the city carries a fragment of the 1300s. According to the Arthur manuscripts, Martin Arthur built a magnificent peristyle of marble for the church of Saint Saviour in Limerick, around the middle of the 14th century. That is all the record gives: a name, a gift, a church. Around the same time, in 1345, John O'Grady died in the city. He had been elected to the Archbishopric of Cashel, confirmed by the Pope in 1332. Hogan, author of the Annals of Nenagh, called him "a mark of great wisdom and industry." He died on the 8th of July, 1345, in the Dominican habit, and was buried in a monastery of that order. He gave many donations to his church, including a large pastoral staff.

17. Mayor MacSheehy honoured for relief of unemployed labourers

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1861

    John T. MacSheehy received a public procession with banners from the congregated trades and a testimonial of plate valued at 200 guineas. During his year in office, £1,200 was subscribed by citizens for the relief of the unemployed labouring classes.

    Read the passage

    Mr. MacSheehy was presented with a valuable testimonial in the shape of a piece of plate value 200 guineas on his retirement from office. He received a public procession which was attended by the congregated trades, with banners, etc., also in testimony of his exertions on behalf oi the unemployed labouring classes, for whose relief a sum of £1,200 was subscribed by the citizens during his year iu office.

    1862 Wm. Lane Joynt, Robert Hunt.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 413

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Limerick, this is the city where Mayor John T. MacSheehy was honoured in 1861. On his retirement from office he received a public procession attended by the congregated trades, with banners. He was presented with a piece of plate valued at 200 guineas. During his year in office, £1,200 was subscribed by the citizens for the relief of the unemployed labouring classes, and the testimonial was in recognition of his exertions on their behalf.

18. Medieval will of Edmund Wyndebald, citizen of Limerick

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1361

    In 1361, Edmund Wyndebald, a citizen of Limerick, made a will bequeathing messuages, lands, and tenements in the city and suburbs of Limerick, as well as lands at Donnouyer and Carrigbethelagh in county Limerick, to a chain of male heirs. The will was witnessed by the Mayor and Bailiffs of Limerick and compared at Drogheda by a notary.

    Read the passage

    2 We give the following as a curious instance of the wills of this period. 1361, 36th Edward III., 12th of August, Edmund Wyndebald, citizen of Limerick, gave to his son Paul Wyndebald, and in defect to him of legitimate male issue, to William Long, and in defect of legitimate male issue to William Long, to Peter de Rupe (Roche), and in defect to Peter de Rupe of legitimate male issue, to Robert de Rupe, and in defect of him of such issue, to the heirs in a direct line of the said Edmund, for ever, all the messuages, lands and tenements, and returns to them belonging in the city and suburbs of Limerick, as also all the lands and tenements of Donnouyer and Carrigbethelagh, with their appurtenances in the county of Limerick, Witness the Mayor U. B., and Bail3^wes J. W., T. T., above named, Eustacius Delece, Thomas Kildare, Gilbert Fitzthomas. Compared at Drogheda the 12th of May by Nicholas Stanihurst, Notary of the Diocese of Derry, (Arthur MSS.)

    Nicholas Bakekar, Mayor ; John Wigmore and John Troy, Bailiffs : — Arthur MSS,

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 38

19. Mer importing goods into Limerick must import bows

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1470

    It was enacted that every merchant who imported goods into Limerick had to import bows to the value of 100 shillings.

    Read the passage

    1470 It was enacted that every merchant who imports goods into Limerick, must import bow* to the value of 100 shiUings (ibid). Charter granted by Henry VL to barbers and chirurgeons, or Guild of St. Mary Magdalene, Limerick.

    1485 \\ illiam Harrold, Mayor. Numbers of cattle died of murrain. This year cow hide sold for four pence, and the bushel of wheat for a shilling (Arthur's MSS.)

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 402

    As the companion tells it

    As the road takes you through Limerick, in 1470 it was enacted here that every merchant importing goods into the city must import bows to the value of 100 shillings. That same year, a charter was granted by Henry 6 to the barbers and chirurgeons, or Guild of St. Mary Magdalene, Limerick.

20. Monks of Swords retrieved Brian's body

    Swords · town · Dublin · 1014

    The monks of St. Columba at Swords came to bear away the body of Brian Boru after the Battle of Clontarf, in order to transport it for burial in the Cathedral of Armagh.

    Read the passage

    The body of young Tiirlogh O'Brien was found in the wators of Tolka with his hands entangled in the hair of a Dane. Of the other distinguished fami- Hes of Ireland ahnost every one lost a member. On the day after the battle the wounded were conveyed to the camp at Kihnainham, and on the next day the monks of St. Columba at Swords came to bear away the body of Brian in order to buiy it in the Cathedi-al of Armagh, where it was deposited at the north side of the Cathedral, and those of Murrough and his relatives at the South. For twelve successive nights, according to the Annals/ the clergy of St. Patrick kept watch over the dead, chaunted hymns and oflered up prayers for the souls of the heroes.^

    It appears from an account' taken from the archives of Denmark by Torfgeus, historiographer to Christian V, that equally with the Irish, Danes were engaged at opposite sides in the battle of Clontarf. This historian describes Brian as " a Prince justly celebrated for clemency, lenity and many other virtues. ■'•' -,

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 16

21. Monument to Lord Blakeney in Kilmallock Cathedral

    Kilmallock · town · Limerick · 1720

    Lieutenant General Lord Blakeney, known for his famous defence of Port Mahon in Minorca against the French in 1720, has his monument in Kilmallock Cathedral.

    Read the passage

    Blakeney, Lieutenant General Lord, 1720, signalized by his famous defence of Port Mahoa in Minorca, against the French; his monument is in Kilmallock Cathedral.

    Coote, Sir Eyre, born at Ash Hill, Kilmallock; the Conqueror of Hyder Ali.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 454

22. Mount St. Vincent Orphanage founded and built

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1850–1851

    The Sisters of Mercy founded a new orphanage, Mount St. Vincent, on 3 April 1850, as the original 1844 orphanage was too small. The foundation stone of the commodious new building was laid on 5 July 1851 by Bishop Ryan, attended by numerous city clergymen.

    Read the passage

    daily offering themselves for admission^ the Sisters of Mercy founded a new Oqihanage, Mount St. Vincent, on the 3rd of April, 1850. On the 5th of July, 1851, the foundation stone of the present really ornamental and commodious building was laid at Mount St. Vincent by the Et. Eev. Dr. Eyan, who was attended on the occasion by a large number of clergymen connected with the city. The Limerick Convent has established several foundations, including Kinsale, 15th April, 1844; Killarney, 30th April, same year; Mallow, 13th October, 1845; Glasgow, August, 1849; and Edinburgh, 7th July, 1858. The branch convents in immediate connection "ndth the Limerick house, are, St. Catherine's (Newcastle West), 24th October, 1849; Eathkeale, opened 19th August, 1850; Eoscommon, 1853; Ennis, 1851; Adare, 1854. The handsome Convent of Adare has been built near the Cathohc parochial church, at the sole expense of the Earl of Dunraven. The Sisters of Mercy were introduced to the Union Workhouse Hospital on the 4th of January, 1861. A Widows' Asylum, founded by the Very Eev. W. A. O'Meara, O.S.E., for 18 widows, was begun near the Orphanage of Mt. St. Vincent, in 1861. The Tipperary branch house was opened on the 6th of October, 1864. The community now (1865) numbers 60 nuns, who devote their time to the instruction of the children of the poor, to the visiting of the sick, &c. During his life-time, the Eight Eev. Dr. Eyan gave very large sums to the Orphanage, to the Convents of Newcastle, E,athkeale, &c. The following is a hst of the schools under the care of the Sisters of

    Mercy : —

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 281

    As the companion tells it

    As you travel through Limerick, you are passing the city where the Sisters of Mercy built Mount St. Vincent, a new orphanage, founded on the 3rd of April, 1850. Children were daily offering themselves for admission, and the original orphanage, dating from 1844, was too small. On the 5th of July, 1851, the foundation stone of the new building was laid by the Right Reverend Dr. Ryan, attended by a large number of clergymen connected with the city. The book calls it a really ornamental and commodious building. During his lifetime, Bishop Ryan gave very large sums to the orphanage. The Limerick Convent had already established foundations beyond the city. Kinsale was opened on the 15th of April, 1844, and Killarney on the 30th of April the same year. Mallow followed on the 13th of October, 1845, Glasgow in August, 1849, and Edinburgh on the 7th of July, 1858. Closer to home, the branch convents in connection with the Limerick house included St. Catherine's at Newcastle West, opened the 24th of October, 1849, Rathkeale on the 19th of August, 1850, Ennis in 1851, Roscommon in 1853, and Adare in 1854. The Adare convent was built near the Catholic parochial church at the sole expense of the Earl of Dunraven. A Widows' Asylum, founded by the Very Reverend W. A. O'Meara for 18 widows, was begun near the orphanage in 1861. By 1865, the community numbered 60 nuns, who devoted their time to the instruction of the children of the poor and to the visiting of the sick.

23. Mungret Gate tower stone and ancient arms controversy

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1643–1884

    A stone bearing a 1643 inscription, originally fixed in the walls of Mungret Gate tower (the New Tower and gate built that year), was argued by a newspaper writer to represent the ancient arms of Limerick. After the destruction of Mungret Gate, the stone lay among rubble until placed at Plassy Mills by Mr. Maunsell.

    Read the passage

    The above figure bears no resemblance whatever to any representation of tlie City Arms that has ever been recognised as such; it appears rather to be a representation of the New Tower and gate built in 1643, viz., Mungret Gate tower — the stone in question having been fixed in the walls of that tower, as we are assured on the authority of White's MSS. (p. 151-2), and it lay, after the destruction of Mungret Gate, among rubbish, until placed at Plassy Mills, by Mr. Maunsell. Lewis, in his Topographical Dictiona?-)/ of Ireland, article Limei-ick, gives the City Seal (but in a reduced shape), as we have given it, ,/ac simile, at page 690. That seal having been cut in the reign of the first George, who ascended the throne in 1714, and died in 1730, and very probably cut in the early part of the reign, before the Mayoralty House stone was cut, and certainly many years anterior to the stone at the city brewery ; we may conclude that it is an exact copy of a more ancient seal, and that by prescription and right, it contains a true representation of the ancient accredited arms of Limerick. Limerick was one of the Irish cities desio'nated " Royal", and holding a charter directly from the crown of England before the close of the thirteenth century. Dublin, Cork, and Waterford were the other Royal Irish cities. Galway did not enjoy the designation or privilege, and though strongly fortified, and protected by the cliief of the great Anglo-Norman Sept, of which the Marquis of Clanricarde is the present representative, was obliged to pay an annual tribute of twelve tuns of wine, as already stated at page 56, in 1277, to Derniot More O'Brien of Tromora, for the protection of its harbour and commerce. Lewis gives a representation of the seals of Dublin, Cork, and Waterford, as well as of

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 452

    As the companion tells it

    Coming through Limerick, there is the story of a stone that set off a controversy about the city's ancient arms. A stone was fixed in the walls of Mungret Gate tower, the New Tower and gate built in 1643. The figure on this stone was argued to represent the ancient arms of Limerick. But it bears no resemblance to any representation of the City Arms that has ever been recognised as such. It appears rather to be a representation of the New Tower and gate itself, Mungret Gate tower. This is on the authority of White's Manuscripts. After the destruction of Mungret Gate, the stone lay among rubbish until placed at Plassy Mills by Mr. Maunsell. Lewis, in his Topographical Dictionary of Ireland, gives the City Seal in a reduced shape. That seal was cut in the reign of the first George, who ascended the throne in 1714 and died in 1730, very probably in the early part of the reign, before the Mayoralty House stone was cut, and certainly many years before the stone at the city brewery. It may be concluded that it is an exact copy of a more ancient seal, and that by prescription and right, it contains a true representation of the ancient accredited arms of Limerick. Limerick was one of the Irish cities designated Royal, holding a charter directly from the crown of England before the close of the thirteenth century. Dublin, Cork, and Waterford were the other Royal Irish cities. Galway did not enjoy that designation or privilege. Though strongly fortified, and protected by the chief of the great Anglo-Norman Sept, of which the Marquis of Clanricarde is the present representative, Galway was obliged to pay an annual tribute of twelve tuns of wine in 1277 to Dermot More O'Brien of Tromora, for the protection of its harbour and commerce.

24. Murrain kills cattle; low prices recorded in Limerick

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1485

    In 1485, large numbers of cattle died of murrain. Cow hide sold for four pence and a bushel of wheat for a shilling.

    Read the passage

    1485 \\ illiam Harrold, Mayor. Numbers of cattle died of murrain. This year cow hide sold for four pence, and the bushel of wheat for a shilling (Arthur's MSS.)

    1489 In this year, the charter oi Henry VII. was granted to Limerick, on the 26th of July.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 402

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Limerick, in 1485 William Harrold served as mayor. That year, numbers of cattle died of murrain. Cow hide sold for four pence, and a bushel of wheat fetched a shilling.

25. Nenagh destroyed in Diarmid's ravages (1056)

    Nenagh · town · Tipperary · 1056

    During Diarmid's 1056 expedition, after destroying the fort at Lough Gur, the ravaging forces finished by destroying Nenagh.

    Read the passage

    The power of Donogh now began to decline, for he had sustained two serious reverses. During his absence in Desmond, his enemy Diarmid had invaded Munster with an army of Lagenians and Danes, of whom he was now acknowledged king, and severely avenged Donogh' s, and Connor Melaghlin's raid into Fingal, on which occasion they had made many prisoners in the great stone church of Lusk. The second blow was inflicted on Donogh, in Thomond, where Torlough, the son of Teighe, maintained his ground against Donogh's son, Murrough, assisted by his Connaught allies, as he had been by Hugh O'Connor and by the king of Leinster in Middle Munster. In the latter the Lagenians and Danes burned one of the forts strengthened by Brian Boru — namely, Duntryleague ; and during another expedition, under Diarmid, which took place in 1056, they destroyed another of these forts — that at Lough Gurr, finishing their ravages by the destruction of Nenagh.

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

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 18

    As the companion tells it

    Up ahead is Nenagh, the town in Tipperary. In 1056 it was destroyed in the ravages of Diarmid. The story begins with Donogh, whose power was declining after two serious reverses. While he was away in Desmond, his enemy Diarmid invaded Munster with an army of Lagenians and Danes, of whom he was now acknowledged king. Diarmid was avenging a raid that Donogh and Connor Melaghlin had made into Fingal, on which occasion they had taken many prisoners in the great stone church of Lusk. The second blow fell on Donogh in Thomond, where Torlough, the son of Teighe, held his ground against Donogh's son Murrough, who was assisted by Connaught allies. Hugh O'Connor and the king of Leinster had also supported Torlough in Middle Munster. In that same conflict, the Lagenians and Danes burned one of the forts strengthened by Brian Boru, namely Duntryleague. Then, during another expedition under Diarmid in 1056, they destroyed another of those forts, the one at Lough Gur, finishing their ravages by the destruction of Nenagh. After this, Donogh's deposition was a proximate event. Diarmid invaded Munster once more, burned Limerick and Emly, and defeated Donogh in a severe battle in the glen of Aherlow. Hugh O'Connor destroyed Kincora, with the town and church of Killaloe. Turlogh and the Lagenians burned Limerick again in 1063 and exacted hostages throughout Munster. Finally, utterly defeated by Turlogh and the king of Leinster at the foot of the Ardagh mountains, Donogh abdicated the crown of Munster, transferring his royal honours to his nephew. He set out on pilgrimage to Rome, where he died in the monastery of St. Stephen in 1064.

26. Nihill family settlement near Killaloe after Kinsale

    Killaloe · town · Clare · 1601–1620

    Dr. Nihill's family settled in the south after their chieftain O'Neill was defeated at Kinsale in 1601. They took a district near Killaloe but were later dispossessed, after which they obtained considerable lands and formed alliances with respectable families in the west of Clare and Limerick.

    Read the passage

    Dr. Nihill's family settled in the south after O'Neill, their chieftain, was defeated at Kinsale in 1601. They took a district near Killaloe, but being dispossessed several years after, they got considerable lands, and, formed alliances Avith respectable families in the west of Clare and Limerick.

    Dr. Arthur attended Downe O'Nihill in the year 1620, and recorded it in his diary, which is in our possession.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 383

27. O'Carroll submits to Lord Justice Brabazon in Limerick

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1547–1548

    Sir William Brabazon, Lord Justice, made a journey to Limerick where Teig O'Carroll submitted and entered covenants to pay yearly tribute, serve the King with horse and foot, and renounce his pretensions to the barony of Ormond.

    Read the passage

    these enoiiiious confiscations, Cox^ adds that the necessities of the State obhged the King to coia brass or mixed moneys, and to make it current in Ireland by proclamation, to the great dissatisfaction of all the people, especially the soldiers.^ This base money was circulated in Limerick as well as elsewhere.' At this time the power of the English was very extensive in Ireland ; " so that the bondage in which the people of Leath-]\Ihoga were, had scarcely been ever equalled before that time/''* Just at this time Sir Wnham Brabazon, Lord Justice, who was elected by the Council, committed the government of Tipperary to Edmond Butler, Archbishop of Cashel, and made a journey to Limerick, where Teig O^Carroll submitted, and entered into covenants of paying a yearly tribute into the Exchequer, and of serving the King with a certain number of horse and foot at his own charge, and of renouncing his pretensions to the barony of Ormond ; and afterwards the same Teig O'Carroll surrendered to the King his country of Ely O^Carroll, containing ninety-three plowlands and a half ; and the King regranted the same to him, and created him Baron of Ely. By O^Carroll's means, Mac Murrough, O'Kelly, and 0^]\lelaghhn, were now taken into protection and pardoned ; and by the Lord Deputy^s mediation, the Earls of Desmond andTliomond who were wrangling about bounds, and the protection of each other's Tories or outlaws, were reconciled on the 11th of March.^

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 55

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Limerick, you are moving through a city where, in 1547 and 1548, the English grip on Ireland was tight. A contemporary wrote that the bondage of the people of Leath-Mhoga had scarcely ever been equalled before that time. Base money, brass or mixed coin, had been circulated in Limerick by proclamation to meet the needs of the Crown, to the great dissatisfaction of all the people, especially the soldiers. Sir William Brabazon, Lord Justice, elected by the Council, committed the government of Tipperary to Edmond Butler, Archbishop of Cashel, and made a journey to Limerick. There, Teig O'Carroll submitted. He entered into covenants to pay a yearly tribute into the Exchequer, to serve the King with a certain number of horse and foot at his own charge, and to renounce his pretensions to the barony of Ormond. Afterwards the same Teig O'Carroll surrendered to the King his country of Ely O'Carroll, containing 93 plowlands and a half. The King regranted the same to him and created him Baron of Ely. By O'Carroll's means, Mac Murrough, O'Kelly, and O'Melaghlin were taken into protection and pardoned. By the Lord Deputy's mediation, the Earls of Desmond and Thomond, who were wrangling about bounds and the protection of each other's outlaws, were reconciled on the 11th of March.

28. O'Connell and O'Brien returned as MPs for Limerick

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1847

    At the general election John O'Brien and John O'Connell, son of the Liberator, were returned as Members of Parliament for the city of Limerick, following a contentious Corporation resolution seen as an attack on O'Connell's memory.

    Read the passage

    On the 8th of June there was a solemn Office and High Mass at St. Michael's Parochial Church, for the repose of the soul of O'Connell. The Mayor, though a Protestant — to show his respect for the memory of the Illustrious Dead, with a large majority of the members of the council, etc., went in procession to the Church, which was crowded with citizens. There never was more heart-felt sorrow than on this occasion. It must, however, be stated, that among a small section of the people, feelings antagonistic to the policy and principles of the Liberator had been finding expression in various Ibrms. In July of this year, a resolution was brought forward in the Corporation, to the eiFect that it was contrary to the honest advocacy.of Repeal to seek for place under any government. This proposition was regarded in the light of a slur on the memory of the deceased patriot, and an insidious attack on his family and the admirers of his policy ; yet at the general election John O'Brien, Esq., and John O'Connell, Esq. (the beloved son of the Liberator), were returned for the city as Members of ParHament. An amendment to the resolution, moreover, was adopted by the Council to the eflect

    " That the charge ungratefully made against the late illustrious Liberator and his patriotic family, of having abandoned the honest advocacy of repeal by the solicitation or acceptance of favours from the Government, is unjust and unfounded— a slander upon the memory of the dead and the character of the living ; and believing the resolution now proposed to be indirectly a repetition of that charge, we reject it".

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 290

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Limerick, this city carries a story from 1847, the year after Daniel O'Connell's death. On the 8th of June a solemn Office and High Mass was held at St. Michael's Parochial Church for the repose of O'Connell's soul. The Mayor, though a Protestant, walked in procession to the church with a large majority of the council members to show his respect for the memory of the Illustrious Dead. The church was crowded with citizens, and the book says there never was more heart-felt sorrow than on that occasion. But among a small section of the people, feelings against the policy and principles of the Liberator had been finding expression. In July of that year a resolution was brought forward in the Corporation to the effect that it was contrary to the honest advocacy of Repeal to seek for place under any government. This was regarded as a slur on the memory of the deceased patriot and an insidious attack on his family and the admirers of his policy. Yet at the general election John O'Brien and John O'Connell, the beloved son of the Liberator, were returned for the city as Members of Parliament. The Council also adopted an amendment rejecting the resolution. They declared the charge against the late illustrious Liberator and his patriotic family, of having abandoned the honest advocacy of repeal by accepting favours from the Government, was unjust and unfounded, a slander upon the memory of the dead and the character of the living.

29. O'Donnel's escape near Abington abbey

    Abington · townland · Limerick · 1601

    In 1601, O'Donnel escaped from the Lord Deputy's forces on a morning of extreme frost under the walls of Abington abbey. The particulars are detailed in the Pacata Hibernia.

    Read the passage

    1601. Some interesting particulars connected with the escape of O'Donnel from the Lord Deputy's forces, on a morning of extreme frost, under the walls of this abbey, are detailed m the Facata liibernia.

    In 1641 these estates were forfeit to the crown.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 419

30. Old gaol in Mary-street a public nuisance

    Mary Street · street · Limerick · 1811

    The old gaol in Mary-street, Limerick, had become a public nuisance by 1811, prompting the Grand Jury to present £6123 4s. 3d. for a new gaol. The site selected was the Dean's close near St. Mary's Cathedral in Bow-lane, washed by the river to the north and west.

    Read the passage

    The want of a gaol was now seriously felt for the city, the old gaol in Mary-street, having become a pubhc nuisance ;^ and accordingly, at the spring assizes of this year, (1811), on the 18th of March, the Grand Jury presented a sum £6123 4s. 3d., for the purpose, to be assessed off the city and the county of the city at the rate of £1000 per annum, and appointed twelve commissioners to carry out the object.

    A long contest had been going on in the county for the representation, between William Thomas MonseU^ Esq., and Colonel O'Dell ; in these contests Colonel O^Dell had been successful ; and Mr. MonseU had been three times defeated. In this year he lodged a petition against Colonel O^Dell ; the petition having been tried. Colonel O'DeU was declared duly elected in April.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 245

31. Patrick Arthur builds Arthur's Quay

    Arthur's Quay · street · Limerick

    As the new town of Limerick took shape, merchant Patrick Arthur built a quay which became the most fashionable part of the city. By 1865, Arthur's Quay is described as occupied only by a banking house.

    Read the passage

    regatta; on the 15th an oratorio in St. Mary^s Cathedral; in the evening a grand ball at the Assembly Rooms, at which the ladies appeared in Irish manufacture ; on the 16th a concert of vocal and instrumental music; and between these displays, viz., on the 12th, the most imposing display that had hitherto been made by the Corporation and the guilds of trade, was that which took place on the riding of the bounds, or franchises — the rendezvous was on the King's Island, from which they went all over the city and county of the city. This memorable jubilee originated with Colonel Thomas Smyth, whose corps, the Limerck Union, took also, a prominent part in the procession. This corps, in the year after, with their president. Colonel Smyth, and the Friendly Knot, with their president, John Prendergast Smyth, met at the Assembly Eooms, and entered into resolutions to form the Loyal Limerick Volunteers, of which Mr. Thomas Smyth was unanimously chosen colonel. In a month afterwards they assembled in their becoming uniform of red, faced with white, at a grand civic ceremony commemorating 'the accession of the Hanoverian dynasty ; and on the 7th of August in the next year, they were presented by the Government with 500 stand of arms ; and to the county of Limerick a present of arms to the same amount was given at the same time. The times were stirring. A "new spuit had begun to operate in the midst of the people. The new town of Limerick was now assuming a shape, notwithstanding the absurd sneer of Eichard Twiss, so ludicrously punished by the wits of Cork. Men of enterprise had already begun to take ground and to build ; one was Mr. Patrick Arthur, merchant,' who built a Quay, which soon became the most fashionable part of the city, (" Arthur's Quay" is now, 1865, occupied only

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 205

    As the companion tells it

    Along here is Arthur's Quay in Limerick. As the new town of Limerick was taking shape, one man of enterprise who began to take ground and build was Mr. Patrick Arthur, a merchant. He built a quay which soon became the most fashionable part of the city. This was notwithstanding the absurd sneer of Richard Twiss, so ludicrously punished by the wits of Cork. The times were stirring, and a new spirit had begun to operate in the midst of the people. The Corporation and the guilds of trade had made their most imposing display hitherto on the riding of the bounds or franchises. The rendezvous was on the King's Island, and from there they went all over the city and county of the city. This memorable jubilee originated with Colonel Thomas Smyth, whose corps, the Limerick Union, took a prominent part in the procession. In the year after, the Limerick Union with their president Colonel Smyth, and the Friendly Knot with their president John Prendergast Smyth, met at the Assembly Rooms and entered into resolutions to form the Loyal Limerick Volunteers. Mr. Thomas Smyth was unanimously chosen colonel. A month afterwards they assembled in their uniform of red faced with white at a grand civic ceremony commemorating the accession of the Hanoverian dynasty. On the 7th of August in the next year they were presented by the Government with 500 stand of arms, and the county of Limerick received a present of arms to the same amount at the same time. By 1865, Arthur's Quay was occupied only by a banking house.

32. Peter's Cell convent and Catholic College

    Peter's Cell · street · Limerick

    Peter's Cell is an enclosed space that was once the site of the convent of the Canonesses of St. Augustine and later occupied by Dominican nuns. Madame O'Dell's house and garden were located here, as well as the more recent Catholic College of Peter's Cell.

    Read the passage

    remains of anotlier modern ruin, the old chapel of the Augustinian Eremites. The water fonts are still in good preservation. The roof and all the rest but the walls are gone. The ancient position of the house of the Eremites is not given by White. Ferrar says it was on the site of the old city court house, that is, where a school of the Christian Brothers stands at present, facing the south entrance of St. Mary's Cathedral in Quay Lane, now more generally called Bridge Street. Fitzgerald states that the civic privileges of the Canons were ceded to the Eremites about the year 1736, but there could have been no Canons then. Perhaps, however, he means that the claims of the Eremites as inheriting of these privileges were then admitted. Archdall distinctly states these civic privileges belonged to the Eremites ; and says that it appears from an inquisition taken in the thirty-seventh year of Elizabeth, that this right of privileged voting for the Mayor, etc., belonged to the head of the Augustinians, meaning no doubt the Eremites. Battersby, in his history of the order, places the site of the monastery of the Eremites in the same locality where the canons lived. But this must be a mistake, for we have not any authority for believing that they succeeded the Canons in their monastery, though it appears they did in their civic privileges. Of the house of the Knights Templars, placed by White in Quay Lane, I have not been able to find any vestiges. Proceeding still in a northerly direction, and passing to the left of the present parish chapel of St. Mary's, we come to Peter's Cell, a partly enclosed space, once the site of the convent of the Canonesses of St. Augustine, and subsequently occupied by Dominican nuns, as would appear from the map in White's MSS. Here was Madame O'Dell's house and garden, and more recently the Catholic College of Peter's Cell. North of Peter's Cell, and separated from it by the old burial ground of the Society of Friends and the Convent National School, are the interesting ivy-covered remains of the great Dominican Convent, of which the north transept wall still remains almost entire, with its high lancet windows, and looking venerably ancient in comparison with the modern convent of the Sisters of Mercy, now standing within its precincts. The beautiful little cemetery of these admirable nuns, overshadowed by a magnificent drooping ash, now occupies the place of what was once the sanctuary. Still further north, in St, Thomas's Isle, are some traces of another Dominican house, but so few as will scarcely repay a visit. There were, however, large ruins, and many ancient monuments, some said to have belonged to the ancient bishops of Limerick ; but they were all destroyed when the island was occupied by Mr. Tuthill. We next proceed with

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 378

    As the companion tells it

    Along this street in Limerick you come to Peter's Cell, a partly enclosed space that was once the site of the convent of the Canonesses of St. Augustine. It was subsequently occupied by Dominican nuns, as appears from the map in White's manuscripts. Here was Madame O'Dell's house and garden, and more recently the Catholic College of Peter's Cell. North of Peter's Cell, separated from it by the old burial ground of the Society of Friends and the Convent National School, stand the ivy-covered remains of the great Dominican Convent. The north transept wall still remains almost entire, with its high lancet windows, looking venerably ancient beside the modern convent of the Sisters of Mercy, now standing within its precincts. The cemetery of these nuns, overshadowed by a magnificent drooping ash, now occupies the place of what was once the sanctuary. Still further north, in St. Thomas's Isle, there are some traces of another Dominican house, but so few as will scarcely repay a visit. There were once large ruins there, and many ancient monuments, some said to have belonged to the ancient bishops of Limerick. But they were all destroyed when the island was occupied by Mr. Tuthill.

33. Poor Clares nunnery established at Convent of Mercy site, c.1815

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1815

    Around 1815 the Franciscans established a nunnery for Poor Clares on the site of the present Convent of Mercy, and erected a school for female children costing £1,000 with 1,000 children in daily attendance.

    Read the passage

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

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

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 376

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Limerick, this city holds the site where, around 1815, the Franciscans established a nunnery for the Poor Clares, on the ground where the present Convent of Mercy stands. They also erected a school for female children there, costing £1,000, with 1,000 children in daily attendance. The Franciscans had been in the city long before that. On Christmas Day 1782, they opened a chapel in Newgate Lane for the celebration of the sacred mysteries. It was spacious, with a piece of ground attached, and a house for the Franciscan Fathers was soon built on it. The liberal spirit of the times gave impetus to its erection, and not only devoted and pious Catholics gave munificent aid. Protestants, Dissenters, Quakers, and Methodists contributed largely. The city was always attached to the Franciscan Order. Father Harold, a native of the city and a learned member of the order, wrote the life of Luke Wadding, and gave an epitome of the voluminous and laborious works of that statesman, patriot, and historiographer. The date over the principal entrance to this chapel was 1802, though it was built many years before. The Franciscans discontinued their school, which was succeeded by Mr. M'Eligott's, Mr. Nolan's, and others.

34. Prendergast estates and county boundary dispute

    Kilcolman · townland · Cork · 1259–1270

    The Prendergast family held large estates at Kilcolman near Doneraile and at Mitchelstown, the latter then considered part of County Limerick. A suit arose over which county part of the estates lay in, requiring twelve freeholders each from Cork and Limerick to decide. The branch ended in an heiress who carried the estates to the Geraldines known as the White Knight.

    Read the passage

    • The Prendergasts had large estates in those days at Kilcolman, near Doneraile, and also at Mitchelstown, tlien considered in tlie county of Limerick. There was a suit raised as to what county jjart of their estates was in, and twelve freeholders of Cork, and twelve of Limerick, were summoned to decide the jioint. The record as to this is, Roll of Justices Itinerant, 44 and 45 Heu. III. I presume this branch of the Prendergasts ended iu an heiiess, who carried the estates to the family of the Geraldines known as the White knight >.

    694

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 398

35. Prince Carthen baptised at Singland near Limerick

    Singland · townland · Limerick · 434

    Prince Carthen, son of Blod, chieftain of North Munster and of the same family as the O'Briens of Thomond, was converted and baptised by St Patrick at Sanigeal, now Singland, near Limerick.

    Read the passage

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

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 9

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere close to Singland, just east of Limerick, St Patrick baptised a prince of Munster in the year 434. Patrick had come through the territory called Arva-cliach, across what is now Tipperary and Limerick. In the part called Hy-Cuanach, now the Barony of Coonagh, a dynast named Oldid opposed him at first. But Patrick performed a miracle, and Oldid and his family were converted and baptised. Colgan states that while in that territory Patrick foretold the foundation of a monastery at Kill-ratha and a church at Kill-teidhill, in the county of Limerick. Patrick then moved into the tract of country east of Limerick, where a chieftain named Locan entertained him hospitably. There he met young Nessan, whom he placed over the monastery of Mungret, which he had founded. The inhabitants of Thomond heard of Patrick's coming, crossed the Shannon to see him, and were baptised in the field of Tir Glas, Terry Glass, in Ormond. Among those who came was Prince Carthen, son of Blod, who was converted and baptised at Sanigeal, now Singland, near Limerick. Colgan remarks that this family was the same as that of the O'Briens of Thomond, and that Carthen was chieftain of North Munster.

36. Proclamation restoring banished merchants to Limerick freedoms, 1671

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1671

    In 1671, a proclamation for restoring all banished merchants to their ancient freedoms in all corporations in Ireland was made in Limerick.

    Read the passage

    Another attempt was made in 1674, to obtain a new Charter, for which a sum of money was subscribed by those interested. Agents too were employed, but the attempt failed. In 1671, it should be stated, a proclamation for restoring aU banished merchants to their ancient freedoms in aU corporations in Ireland, was made in Limerick ; and in the following year, a custom which is rarely observed now a days is noticed, viz, that of John Bouria, the Mayor of Limerick, having gathered all the boys of the city, and brought them two days with him to show them the city bounds, and point out the extent of the county of the city. In this year also, John Halpin having been chosen Sheriff, he continued iu office 27 days ; but because he would not take the oath of supremacy he was deposed. He disputed the point in Dublin, before the Lord Lieutenant, but to no purpose, for he was obliged to yield and lay down his office.' James Arthur, bom at Limerick, who had

    ' White'* MSS.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 116

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Limerick, this is a city with a fragment of restoration history from the sixteen seventies. In 1671, a proclamation was made here for restoring all banished merchants to their ancient freedoms in all corporations in Ireland. The following year brought an old custom to light. John Bouria, then Mayor of Limerick, gathered all the boys of the city and brought them with him for two days to show them the city bounds and point out the extent of the county of the city. That same year, John Halpin was chosen Sheriff but stayed in office only 27 days. He would not take the oath of supremacy, and so he was deposed. He disputed the point in Dublin before the Lord Lieutenant, but it came to nothing. He was obliged to yield and lay down his office. A further attempt to obtain a new charter was made in 1674, with money subscribed and agents employed, but the attempt failed.

37. Provincial meeting at Cork condemns Rightboys and Whiteboys, 1786

    Cork · city · Cork · 1786

    Dr. Conway attended a provincial meeting at Cork on 26 June 1786, presided over by the Archbishop of Cashel, which adopted decrees condemning the riotous and illegal proceedings of the Rightboys. Regulations were also made regarding parochial clergy dues and restraining parish expenses.

    Read the passage

    Of the public acts of Dr. Conway we have not many records. He attended a meeting of the Bishops of Munster, which was held in Limerick on the 1st of May, 1784, and which was presided over by the Archbishop of Cashel, at which a declaration of loyalty to the king and country was drawn up, agreed to and signed by the bishops, who, at the same time, enjoined their clergy to exhort the people to industry, sobriety, and a peaceable demeanour in all things, as a sure means of fulfilling their duty towards God and the state. He opposed the Rlghtboys and the Whiteboys in the most determined manner, and he was one of the Bishops of Munster who attended a provincial meeting held at Cork on the 26th of June, 1786, and which was presided over by the Archbishop, at which decrees were adopted condemnatory of the riotous and Illegal proceedings of the lilghtboys. At this meeting regulations were made in reference to the dues of the parochial clergy, and the restraining of certain parochial expenses on the part of the parishioners.' Dr. Conway was a benefactor to the religious and charitable institutions of his native city of Limerick, and a friend of education, as he proved by his having bequeathed a sum of £415 7s. 8d. towards building a college for the education of Roman Catholic youth, should any such be established in this kingdom, or towards support of students thereof" — {extract from will^ 1794). This money was invested afterwards in building the Catholic seminary at Park. He also bequeathed a sum of £92 6s. 2d. upon trust, for educating, clothing, and maintaining poor children of the charity school of St. John's parish, a bequest of which there is no account at present.'''

    He lived to the age of 75 years, and died on the 19th day of June, 1796. His remains were interred, as were those of his predecessors, Drs. O'KeefFe and O'Kearney, in St John's Churchyard, near the south-east wall, under a plain limestone tomb, which bears the following inscription : —

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 362

38. Religious orders dispute in Limerick

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1732–1737

    Dr. O'Keeffe investigated a complicated dispute in Limerick between the Dominicans and Franciscans on one side and the Augustinian hermits on the other. The dispute ended in favour of the Augustinians on appeal to the court of Rome.

    Read the passage

    ties, is demonstrated by the fact of Lis being entrusted in 1732 to act in the difficult and dehcatc commission of reporting to the Holy See on the diffi3rences which had arisen between Dr. Bernard O'Gara, Archbishop of Tuara, and the Rev. Patrick Bermingham, Warden of Galway, and the collegiate clergy, respecting the jurisdiction of the bishop over them. As such delegate, he proceeded to Galway and investigated the matter in dispute, when a compromise was entered into by which the right of visitation and of hearing appeals was conceded by the warden, etc., to the archbishop. He also investigated the complicated dispute which arose in Limerick between the Dominicans and Franciscans on the one part, and the Augustinian hermits on the other — a dispute which ended in favour of the latter on an appeal to the court of Rome. Dr. O'KcefFe died on the 4th of May, 1737, and was interred in St. John's churchyard, but there is no trace of his tomb.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 356

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Limerick, a complicated dispute between religious orders played out in the 1730s. Doctor O'Keeffe was entrusted in 1732 with a delicate commission to report to the Holy See on differences that had arisen. He went to Galway and investigated a dispute between Doctor Bernard O'Gara, Archbishop of Tuam, and the Reverend Patrick Bermingham, Warden of Galway, and the collegiate clergy, regarding the jurisdiction of the bishop over them. A compromise was reached: the warden conceded the right of visitation and of hearing appeals to the archbishop. O'Keeffe also investigated the dispute in this city, between the Dominicans and Franciscans on one side and the Augustinian hermits on the other. That dispute ended in favour of the Augustinians, on an appeal to the court of Rome. O'Keeffe died on the 4th of May, 1737, and was buried in Saint John's churchyard, but no trace of his tomb remains.

39. Revival of the flax trade in Limerick

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1864–1865

    The last year saw a remarkable revival of the flax trade and the establishment of a flax company in Limerick, modelled on one in Cork. Thanks were due to the Messrs. Russell and Mr. Peter Tait for advancing the industry, with Tait also heading a great army clothing establishment.

    Read the passage

    1865. John Rickard Tinsley, Esq., J.P., succeeded to the office of Mayor on the 1st of January, and at once set about means of obtaining employment for the distressed labouring poor.^ Within the last two years Limerick has been the station of departure en route to Liverpool and Cork for an extraordinary number of emigrants to America, who have taken not a little of the wealth of the country with them, to countries where a better prospect awaits labour and industry. The departure of the producers has no doubt left fewer mouths to fill, but the means of filling them has not been increased; and the labour market has suffered, while the farmers, to add to their difficulty, have had to contend with the results of the inclemency of bad seasons, with high rents, and with the discouragement arising from the want of security of tenure. Reacted on by the state of the country, the city has sufiered from this depression, as well as from the exceptional^ condition of the harbour and the agitations in the money market. Still it is not to be denied that many improvements were perceptible, in promise at least, if not in realization, in the condition of Limerick withm the space to which we refer. The last year has been particularly remarkable for the revival of the flax trade and the establishment of a flax company in imitation of that recently got up in Cork ; and for the advancement of this congenial and hopeful industry the thanks of the city are especially due to the Messrs. Russell and to Mr. Peter Tait, the latter gentleman at the head too of the great army clothing establishment, having inaugurated the manufacture by a public dinner, at which some useful speeches were^ made, and subsequently visited the north of Ireland to procure the best information respecting the best modes of management.

    1864. Jan, 12. — A Flax meeting was convened by the High Sheriff.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 302

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Limerick, the city carries a story from 1864 and 1865. On the first of January 1865, John Rickard Tinsley took office as mayor and set about finding work for the distressed labouring poor. Over the previous two years Limerick had been a station of departure for an extraordinary number of emigrants heading to Liverpool and Cork, and then on to America, taking the wealth of the country with them. The farmers were left to contend with bad seasons, high rents, and the discouragement of a lack of security of tenure. The city suffered from depression, from the condition of the harbour, and from agitations in the money market. Still, improvements were perceptible. The last year saw a remarkable revival of the flax trade, and the establishment of a flax company in imitation of one recently set up in Cork. For the advancement of this industry the thanks of the city were especially due to the Messrs. Russell and to Mr. Peter Tait. Tait was also at the head of the great army clothing establishment. He inaugurated the manufacture with a public dinner, at which some useful speeches were made, and afterwards visited the north of Ireland to gather the best information on methods of management. On the 12th of January 1864, a flax meeting had been convened by the High Sheriff.

40. Rockites attempt to burn Bruff church

    Bruff · town · Limerick · 1822

    In 1822 the Rockites attempted to burn the church and several private buildings at Bruff, but were frustrated by the determination of the gentry and nobility.

    Read the passage

    1822. The Rockites attempted to burn the church and several private buildings, but frustrated by the determination of the gentry and the nobility.

    The town and neighbourhood forming the property of the Hartstonge family, whose monument is in the church. It now belongs to the Earl of Limerick.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 425

41. Russell's spinning mill prepared on North Strand, Limerick

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1853

    In 1853, the Messrs. Russell's spinning mill on the North Strand in Limerick was rapidly being prepared. The Foynes Railway was also projected that year, and the Sisterhood of the Good Shepherd trained young women in making Valenciennes lace.

    Read the passage

    Limerick exhibited in this year some cheering signs of remunerative employment and commercial advancement. At the lace factory in Upper Glentworth Street, 740 hands were employed, and in Messrs. Forrest's in Abbey Court, 420, besides establishments in Clare Street, Patrick Street, and from 200 to 300 small job houses throughout the city, altogether employing some 8,500 females. The Messrs. liussell's spinning mill on the North Strand was also rapidly being prepared. The Foynes Railway was projected; and the Sisterhood of the Good Shepherd instructed a number of young women at their convent in making Valenciennes lace. Ornamental art also received a great impetus in the government school of design.

    January 1st, 1854, Henry Watson, Esq., who had been Mayor under the old corporate regime in 182o-'24-'25, was elected Mayor, under the provisions of the Limerick Corporate Reform Act, which, while it abolished the Commissioners of St. Michael's Parish, gave the Corporation increased powers of taxation, etc., changed the boundaries of the wards, limited the number of Aldermen to eight, and gave four Councillors to each of the eight wards. It was a strange sight to witness the exponent of the exploded system of corporate misdeeds chosen as tiie first Mayor of what may be termed the second reformed Corporation; but the liberals of that body not being able to agree among themselves on a candidate of their own party, they chose Alderman Watson, who fell into their ranks and acted with that section of the council. During his mayoralty. Alderman Watson traversed, according to ancient usage, the land and water boundaries of the municipality. In July, accompanied by the Corporation, he

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 292

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Limerick, you are in a city that in 1853 showed signs of commercial advancement and remunerative employment. On the North Strand, the Messrs. Russell's spinning mill was rapidly being prepared. The lace factory in Upper Glentworth Street employed 740 hands. Messrs. Forrest's establishment in Abbey Court employed 420 more. There were further establishments in Clare Street and Patrick Street, and from 200 to 300 small job houses throughout the city. Altogether these employed some 8,500 females. The Sisterhood of the Good Shepherd instructed a number of young women at their convent in making Valenciennes lace. Ornamental art also received a great impetus in the government school of design. The Foynes Railway was projected the same year. On the first of January 1854, Henry Watson was elected Mayor under the provisions of the Limerick Corporate Reform Act. That act abolished the Commissioners of St. Michael's Parish, gave the Corporation increased powers of taxation, changed the boundaries of the wards, limited the number of Aldermen to eight, and gave four Councillors to each of the eight wards. The liberals of the body, not being able to agree among themselves on a candidate of their own party, chose Alderman Watson, who fell into their ranks and acted with that section of the council.

42. Scattery Island recovered for Diocese of Limerick, 1742

    Scattery Island · townland · Clare · 1742

    Around 1742, Bishop Robert Lacy of Limerick recovered Scattery Island from the Diocese of Killaloe and rejoined it to the Diocese of Limerick. This was attested by James White, notary apostolic.

    Read the passage

    "N.B. — About the year 1742, the Rev. D. D. Robert Lacy, bishop of Limerick, recovered this island of Iniscatha from the diocese of Killaloe, and a second time joined it to the diocese of Limerick. Witness my hand, James White, notary apostolic.

    "In the year 1801, the bishop of Limerick went to Iniscathy, in which he found two families living, whom he placed under the care and jurisdiction of the Rev. Michael Sullivan, parish priest of Ballylongford, in the diocese of Kerry.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 325

43. School at Cluanraid near Ennis under O'Brien

    Ennis · town · Clare

    A major school at Cluanraid near Ennis had 600 scholars and 350 monks, supported by O'Brien, King of Limerick. This school persisted even after the coming of the English.

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    ' There were four principal Universities in Ireland, viz. Ardmagh, Cashel, Lismore, and Dunda-leathglass. In Armagh, under St. Dubthach, Bishop, anno 513, were 7000 scholars. In Cashel, under Cormac Mac Cullenan, King and Archbishop in the year 901, were 5000 students, and six hundred Conventual monks ; the like number were in Lismore and Dun-da-leathglass. Many were the other great schools dispersed throughout the kingdom ; whereas even after the coming of the English at Cluanraid near Ennis, there were 600 Scholars, and 350 Monks, supported by O'Brien, King of Limerick. The Irish in these days made a beginning of the Universitj' of Oxford in England, founded the University of Paris and that of Pavia. Fifty-two Catholic kings reigned in Ireland until the coming of the English, consequently, 197 kings in all reigned in Ireland until that event. Whoever reads the antiquities must be con\'inced that it abounded in gold and silver, as every person of distinction wore a golden ring and a golden chain ; in the reign of Candaridtheach, their helmets were made of silver, all their chalices and Church utensils were made of gold and silver ; and the ounce of gold paid to the Danes yearly, as a tribute for every nose in the kingdom, is a proof of their riches. — Hugh M^Curtin.

    HISTORY OF LIMERICK. 3^

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 25

44. Sexten's kinsmen slain defending Maynooth Castle

    Maynooth · town · Kildare · 1534–1538

    Limerick citizens complained that Edmond Sexten and his brethren were mere Geraldines, and that part of his brethren were slain in defence of the Castle of Maynooth, indicating their loyalty to rebel factions.

    Read the passage

    his Deputie, and army, against all men, whensoever they com thider. And whatsoer the inhabitants be, as, in good faith, having respect, where they dwell, we take them to be good, it were a shrewde policie to subvert the hoole citie for a few eivel. And they, on thother side, beare him displeasure, and, as they sale, they moche abhorre him, because he is an Irishman of blode, and (as they saie) he useth himself accordmg to his nature. Howbeit he is made denizen and free by the King, so as he hath been chargour there, contrary to the Inglishe statutes and their hberties. They saie also that he, his brederen, kynsmen, and adherantes, been mere Geraldines, and that parte of his brederen were slajme in defence of the Castele of Maynothe ; so as in respecte of his Irish blode and corrupt affection to traytours, they saye they doe not trust him.^

    In an extract fi"om the minutes of Council,^ with the King's commands, it is stated that as the law is continually kept at Dublin, and that between Dabhn and Limerick the distance is 120 miles, and so many dangers between, " and as few or none dare passe without some strength which poore suitors have not,''' it is suggested that a Council of a President and four Councillors \mder a Secretary be established ; the President to have diet for himself, and the rest £200 yearly. Every Councillor for his entertainment, and finding his own horse and servant, £50 yearly, and the Secretary of the Council, £26:13:4 yearly, with such reasonable fees as the country may bear. The Archbishop of Cashel is suggested as a meet President.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 50

45. Shower of butter falls at Newcastle near Limerick

    Newcastle · town · Limerick · 1695

    On 20 October 1695, a shower of what people took to be butter fell at Newcastle, about Limerick, and in many parts of the country. The phenomenon was considered unprecedented in Ireland.

    Read the passage

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

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

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 165

46. Sir Francis Berkeley of Askeyton knighted at Kilmallock

    Kilmallock · town · Limerick · 1599

    Sir Francis Berkeley of Askeyton, constable of Limerick Castle from 1597, was knighted at Kilmallock two years later by the Earl of Essex. His estates eventually devolved on his daughters, connecting the Massy and Westropp families.

    Read the passage

    John Dannet succeeded, 29th Mar. 1597. Capt. Francis Berkeley succeeded on his death soon after, the Patent (given '' free from the seal, because he is son-in-law to the Lord Chancellor") being dated 2nd Nov. 1597. This was Sir F. Berkeley of Askeyton, who was knighted at Kilmallock two years after by the Earl of Essex, and whose estates eventually devolved on his daughters, of -whom one married Mr. Courtenay, of Powderham Castle, and another Mr. Taylor, of Ballynort, from whom the Massy and Westropp families are descended. The Lord Chancellor, to whom he was son-in-law, was Adam Loftus, Archbishop of Dublin.

    George Blundell obtained a reversion of Sir Francis Berkeley's patent, 13th May, 1608, but Maurice, son to Sir Francis, got him to surrender it, and had a patent accordingly, 8th June, 1610,

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 35

47. Sir William King built church at Kilpeacon as chapel of ease

    Kilpeacon · townland · Limerick · 1690–1706

    Sir William King, repeatedly Mayor of Limerick and its Governor in 1690, built a church close to the ancient castle and his mansion at Kilpeacon as a chapel of ease. The church was later given over to ecclesiastical authorities when the old parish church of Knocknegaul was destroyed.

    Read the passage

    Sir William King, Knt. of Kilpeacon/ who figured so prominently in many of the events of these and preceding years, died on the 10th of September, 170G. He had been representative in Parliament for the county of Limerick in ICGl, together with Eobert Oliver, Esq. He was oftentimes mayor of Limerick, of which he was Governor in 1690, when he was made prisoner by the Irish, and having escaped, he gave uuportant information to William. He built the Church, close by the ancient castle and his own mansion, of Kilpeacon, as a chapel of ease; but this Church was subsequently given up to the Ecclesiastical authorities, on the destruction of the old parish Church of Knocknegaul. The old house of Kilpeacon was burned to the ground several years ago, and the castle was thrown down. In the Church of Kilpeacon is a black marble slab set in a moulding of floriated white marble, which was formerly topped to the ceiling with trophies and armorial carvings, elaborately executed, to Sir William King. On the slab is a long Latm inscription which we translate as follows : —

    TT C p

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 169

48. St. John's Church found full of oats at surrender

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1691

    When the English took possession of the Irishtown after the Treaty of Limerick, St. John's Church was discovered heaped full of oats. The Irish retained the benefit of these stores in accordance with the Articles of capitulation.

    Read the passage

    themselves of the Stone Fort and all the outworks of the IrishtoAvn. Next day five of the English regiments marched in and took possession of the Irishtown^ in which were fourteen pieces of cannon^ and St. John's Church, which was heaped full of oats, of which the Irish had the benefit, in accordance with the Articles. Storey observes that the works were all exceedingly strong.

    3. All Merchants, or reputed Merchants of the City of Lymerich, or of any other Garrison nowpossessed by the Insh, or of any Town or Place in the Counties of Clare or Kerry, who are absent beyond the Seas, that have not bore Arms since Their Majesties' Declaration in February 1688-9, shall have the Benefit of the second Article, in the same manner as if thej' were present, provided such Merchants and reputed Merchants do repair into this Kingdom within the space of eight Months from the Date hereof.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 148

49. St. Mary's Convent founded in Bruff

    Bruff · town · Limerick · 1856

    The convent of St. Mary's was founded in Bruff in 1856. Through the extraordinary sacrifices and exertions of Dean Cussen, a new and beautiful convent was built which attained a first-class position as an educational establishment.

    Read the passage

    order of tlie Faithful Companions, a tribute of just praise is bestowed upon Dr. Ryan and the Very Rev. Dean Cussen for the wonderful services conferred on the great educational ])roject in which that holy nun Avas engaged ; and the first convent of the order in Ireland was established in Limerick, the splendid convent of Laurel hill, which has been recognised since its formation as a leading educational establishment of the first class for young ladies.' In Bruff, the convent of St. Mary's was founded in 1856, and in a few years afterwards, owing to the extraordinary sacrifices and exertions of the Very Rev. Dean Cussen, a new and beautiful convent was built, which has attained a first-class position as an educational estabhshment.^ The open sincerity of Dr. Ryan's heart shone in those features which, even in death, had much grace and benignity impressed upon them. In 1825 there were but few schools in the city and diocese. The Christian Brothers had been but a short time before introduced by his excellent predecessor, Dr. Tuohy. Dr. Ryan not only gave them every encouragement, but he afforded them facilities by which they could extend their usefulness, increase the number of schools, and bring to the child of every poor person in the city all the advantages of an excellent education. As to higher schools, they were extremely few thirty or even twenty years ago in Limerick. By the earnest zeal of Dr. Ryan for the promotion of education among the better-to-do classes of Cathohcs, the Jesuit Fathers have been introduced there, and their college at this moment is one of the most flourishing in the south of Ireland. It was by Dr. Ryan that the unwearied and indefatigable Redemptorist Fathers, the sons of St. Alphonsus, have been introduced to bestow the inestimable blessings and benefits of their most pious labours on a people who know how to look upon them with deserved reverence and affection. As if by magic, too, he raised up^ the grand Cathedral of St. John's, having only sought assistance, and in a moment his most sanguine expectations being more than realised.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 367

50. St Patrick founds monastery at Mungret

    Mungret · town · Limerick · 434

    St Patrick was hospitably entertained by a chieftain named Locan east of Limerick, where he met young Nessan. Patrick placed Nessan over the monastery of Mungret, which he had founded.

    Read the passage

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

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 9

51. St Sinan founds monastery at Inniscathy on the Shannon, 5th century

    Scattery Island · townland · Clare

    In the fifth century, St Sinan founded a monastery of Canons Regular of St Augustine on the island of Inniscathy (Scattery Island) on the Shannon, representing early evidence of Christian devotion in the Limerick district.

    Read the passage

    St. Patrick, on his way to Connaught, passed the Shannon at Limerick ; and it was in the vicmity of the city, in Singland (Sois Angel) the Saint is said to have seen the vision of the angel. The holy well and stony bed and altar of St. Patrick are to this day existing in Singland. IVadition speaks of his having preached here. He appomted first Bishop of Limerick Samt Manchin, " a rehgious man, having a complete knowledge of the Scriptures, and placed him over the subjects of Amailgaid, King of Connaught, then lately converted to the Christian faith. The mountain of Knock Patrick, in the western barony of Connoloe, county of Limerick, the base of which is washed by the Shannon, whose course for sixty miles may be traced from its summit, is the place from which tradition alleges our Apostle to have blessed Connaught.' We thus catch a glimpse, through the dimness and obscurity of distant time, of the halo which encircled the name and character of Limerick. We thus perceive the close acquaintance which its inhabitants made with Christianity, when Europe for the greater part was shrouded in the darkness of Pagan superstition. Were we in search of fm-ther evidences of the early Christian devotion of the people of the district, it is supplied by abundant facts. In the fifth century St. Sinan founded the monastery of Canons Eegulars of St. Augustine at the island of Inniscathy, on the Shannon. In the sixth century St. Ita, an ilhistrious native of the county, "w hose festival is celebrated on the 14th of January, founded at Cluain Credhail (Kileedy), a nunnery of Canonesses Regular of St. Augustine. St. Eden founded CJlum Claidech in the same century, and St. Mochelloch, Kilmaliock, in the seventh century — these two last mentioned were for Canons Regular of St. Augustine.^

    ' A beautiful sonnet from tbe pen of the late Sir Aubrey tie Vere, Bart, of Curragh Chase, embodies the tradition in lanfjuage of fire and beaiity. — Lamenlntion of Ireland nnd other Poems.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 9

52. Surrender of Limerick and excluded persons

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1651–1652

    After the surrender of Limerick, articles were agreed whereby all persons in the city would have their lives and properties protected, except a named list of military, civic, and religious leaders who had opposed acceptance of earlier terms. The excluded included Major-General Hugh O'Neil (Governor), two bishops, priests, friars, aldermen, and others.

    Read the passage

    III. All officers, soldiers and other persons in the city, shall have liberty to remove themselves, their families and property to any part of Ireland.

    IV. All citizens and inhabitants shall have Uberty to stay in the city, untn they get warning to depart.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 102

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass Limerick, this city surrendered in 1651. Articles were agreed granting protection to all within, except a named list of leaders who had opposed earlier terms. All officers, soldiers and other persons could remove themselves, their families and property to any part of Ireland. Citizens and inhabitants could stay until they got warning to depart. The excluded included the governor, bishops, and aldermen.

53. Theatre building projects in Limerick, Cork and Dublin

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1732

    In the early 1730s, projects were afloat for building theatres in Dublin, Cork, and subsequently Limerick, all held by the same patentee for many years. Sir Edward Lovet Pearce wrote to Charles Smyth, Esq., M.P., offering to provide a plan for a play house in Cork based on the Dublin scheme.

    Read the passage

    In the midst of these proceedings, wMcli throw greater light on the manners of the day than some of the facts recorded in much more dignified documents, projects were afloat for building Theatres in Dublin and Cork, and subsequently in Lunerick. The Theatres of the three cities had been held by the same patentee for many years subsequent to these times. Sir Edward Lovet Pearce wrote to Charles Smyth, Esq., M.P., on the subject, a letter as follows : —

    " Dublin, February 2nd,l7 32.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 187

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Limerick, it is worth knowing that in the early 1730s, projects were afoot for building theatres in Dublin and Cork, and subsequently here in Limerick. The theatres of all three cities had been held by the same patentee for many years. In 1732, Sir Edward Lovet Pearce wrote to Charles Smyth, Member of Parliament, from Dublin on the subject, offering a plan for a play house in Cork based on the Dublin scheme.

54. Tombstones at Kilquane

    Kilquane · townland · Limerick

    Kilquane contains tombstones for Dr. Mathew Molony and Rev. Francis Nolan. Several ancient tombstones with Irish character inscriptions were shattered by soldiers from the Limerick garrison.

    Read the passage

    In Kilquane there had been several ancient tombstones with inscriptions in the Irish character ; there are few if any traces of them now. Some of them were shattered several years ago by soldiery from the garrison of Limerick.

    222 HISTORY OF LIMERICK.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 125

55. Torlough demolishes English castles as far as Youghal (1304)

    Youghal · town · Cork · 1304

    In 1304 Torlough O'Brien received the hostages of all the chiefs of North Munster, demolishing all the English castles as far as Youghal and putting their garrisons to the sword.

    Read the passage

    In 1304 Torlough received the hostages of all the chiefs of North Munster, demoHshing all the English castles as far as Youghal, and putting their garrisons to the sword.

    In the year 1306 Donough succeeded his father Torlough, and had scarcely been inaugurated when a confederacy was formed agamst him by the descendants of Brian Eoe, who were supported by Richard de Clare and the Dalcassian families who then occupied the Hy-]\Ibloid territory in the east of the county Clare, co-extensive Avith the present Deanery of Omullod in the diocese of KiUaloe. The most distinguished of these families were the O^Conaings, O^KennedySjCCeadfeas, O^Shannahaus (or Shannons), O'Hogans, O^Eactherns (Aherns) , O^Mailduius, O^'Duracthies, O^Lonargains, O^Conguilles, and O^Kearnies, from which latter family the river flowhig through Sixmile

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 37

56. Treaty Stone and episcopal relics shown to Dr. Milner

    Limerick · city · Limerick

    During his visit to Limerick, Dr. Milner was shown the Treaty Stone as a curiosity, along with the mitre, crozier, and register (the Black Book) of the ancient Catholic Bishops of Limerick. These antiquities particularly struck him during his tour.

    Read the passage

    who was then making a second tour through Ireland . Dr. Milner had opportunities of estimating the state of the population, and the condition of the land. He states that the fertihty of the County of Limerick, hoth in corn and pasturage, must strike the eye of every traveller ; but that this fertility is of no avail to its crowded population, who never taste the grain they reap, nor the beeves which they tend, as the same insipid root, the potato, if they can get even that, is their only food from one end of the year to the other. He adds, that in no part of the country had he seen the cabins, or the clothes and food of the people, more wretched than in the rich county of Limerick ; that their condition, in this respect, instead of exciting the scorn and ridicule of the reflecting stranger, who acknowledges a common nature with these suffering beings, calls for his commiseration, nay for his tears. 1 This may give a clue to the causes of those lamentable disturbances which prevailed ; and to which, it would appear, even he who was called the Iron Duke, could not close his eyes. In his visit to Limerick, Dr. Milner speaks of certain curiosities which particularly struck him — viz. what was shown to him as the Treaty Stone ; and the mitre, crozier, and register (the Black Book) of the ancient Catholic Bishops of Limerick.^

    This state of society contmued for some time longer to give much uneasiness to the Government, but no movement was made to mitigate the miseries of the people. In the years 1809^ and 1810, the same causes produced the same effects.* In this last mentioned year, the citizens conceived the idea of building a theatre in the New-town, and they selected a site for the purpose, in that portion of George's-street,^ which in some years afterwards became the centre of the street, and the principal portion of it for business.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 244

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Limerick, this is a city that left its mark on Dr. Milner during his second tour through Ireland. He found the county rich in corn and pasturage, striking to any traveller's eye. But the people crowded onto that fertile land never tasted the grain they reaped or the beef they tended. The potato, if they could get even that, was their only food from one end of the year to the other. He said he had seen no worse cabins, clothes, or food in any part of the country than in the rich county of Limerick. Their condition, he wrote, instead of exciting the scorn and ridicule of a reflecting stranger who acknowledges a common nature with these suffering beings, calls for his commiseration, nay for his tears. These observations give a clue to the causes of the lamentable disturbances that prevailed, disturbances to which even the one called the Iron Duke could not close his eyes. Among the curiosities shown to Dr. Milner during his visit, certain ones particularly struck him. He was shown what was called the Treaty Stone. And he was shown the mitre, the crozier, and the register, known as the Black Book, of the ancient Catholic Bishops of Limerick. This state of society continued to give uneasiness to the Government, but no move was made to mitigate the people's miseries. In 1809 and 1810 the same causes produced the same effects. In 1810 the citizens conceived the idea of building a theatre in the New-town, and selected a site in George's-street, a portion that in some years afterwards became the centre of the street and its principal part for business.

57. Viscount Gort, M.P. for Limerick

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1826–1830

    John Prendergast Vereker, third Viscount Gort, served as M.P. for Limerick from 1826 to 1830. His electoral contests with Lord Monteagle for representation of Limerick city were noted for their length and severity.

    Read the passage

    1865. — Death of Lord Gort. — We regret to announce the death of Viscount Gort, which occurred at East Cowes Castle, his seat in the Isle of Wight, on the 20th in%t. He was born on the 1st July, 1799, and was educated at Harrow School, where Lord Byron, Sir Robert Peel, and the late Viscount Palmerston were amongst his senior schoolfellows. He was for some time member for Limerick, the contests which he fought with the present Lord I^Ionteagle for the representation of that city having been remarkable for their length and severity. He was afterwards one of the representative peers for Ireland, aud colonel of the Limerick aitiller

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 447

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Limerick, this city was once represented in Parliament by John Prendergast Vereker, the third Viscount Gort. He sat as member for Limerick from 1826 to 1830, winning the seat after electoral contests against Lord Monteagle that were remarkable for their length and severity. Vereker was born on the 1st of July 1799 and educated at Harrow School, where Lord Byron, Sir Robert Peel, and Viscount Palmerston were among his senior schoolfellows. He later became one of the representative peers for Ireland and colonel of the Limerick artillery. He died at East Cowes Castle, his seat in the Isle of Wight, in 1865.

58. Volunteer corps in Limerick, Clare and Tipperary

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1782

    A listing of volunteer infantry corps raised in Limerick city and county as well as in Clare, including the Loyal Limerick Volunteers, Ennis Volunteers, C. Connell and Killaloe Rangers, Rathkeale Volunteers, and others. Many Catholics were enrolled among the defenders of their native land across Limerick, Tipperary, and Clare.

    Read the passage

    X. Rathkeale Volmitcers. XI. German Fusiliers, James Darcy, Esq. XII. Inchiquin Fusiliers, Sir Hugh Dillon Massy, Bart. XIII. Limerick Independents, John Frendergast Smyth, Esq. XIV. Sixmilebridge Independents, Francis Macnamara, Esq. We have thus given the fullest details of the grand volunteer movement in city and county at this eventful period. Not only in Limerick, but in Tipperary and Clare, many Catholics ■were enrolled among the defenders of their native land. Mr. Francis Arthur, the son of Mr. Patrick Arthur, equipped a corps of artillery at his own expense; but the fact did not prevent him from falling under the ban of Government a few years afterwards ; his life was sought throixgh the infamous agency of a perjured informer of the name of Maum when he was charged with overt acts of high treason in 1798.

    1 This title, lately become extinct, had been held by Edmond Burke's father-in-law. Lord Clare thought to give a prestige and appearance of antiquity to his title by selecting that of an elder member of the Peerage — of whom, indeed, the public know little, save that he once gave Goldsmith a haunch of venison — but as Robert Burns has it :

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 225

59. William S. O'Brien convicted of High Treason at Clonmel

    Clonmel · town · Tipperary · 1848

    William S. O'Brien, who had represented Limerick County in Parliament, was convicted of High Treason at the Special Commission in Clonmel in October 1848. Samuel Dickson was returned in his place as representative.

    Read the passage

    Fitzgibbon, W. S. O'Brien. W. S. O'Brien, Caleb Powell. W. S. O'Brien, W. Monsell. Samuel Dickson, in place of William S. O'Brien, convicted of High Treason at the Special Commission in Clonmel, October, 184S.|| Wyndham Gocld, in place of S. Dickson, deceased. 1852 W. Monsel!, W. Goold.

    1854 W. Monsell, Clerk of the Ord-

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 439

    As the companion tells it

    Coming up now through Clonmel. In October 1848, this town was where the Special Commission sat, and where William S. O'Brien, who had represented Limerick County in Parliament, was convicted of High Treason. Samuel Dickson was returned in his place.

60. Synod at Clonmacnoise withdraws fealty from Ormond

    Clonmacnoise · townland · Offaly · 1650

    A provincial synod assembled at Clonmacnoise where the clergy, weary of Ormond's administration and suspecting him of favouring their enemies, determined to withdraw orthodox subjects from their fealty and obedience to him, enforced by threat of excommunication.

    Read the passage

    • " The clergy of Ireland (says Dr. Arthur) being weary of the unlucky administration of Lord James Marquis of Ormond, Viceroy of Charles II. in Ireland ; and suspecting him of being too favourable to the party of their enemies, whom by his supine neglect he permitted to invade three provinces of the kingdom, and to take all the strongest cities, towns, and fortresses, and to overrun the country at pleasure with impunity ; at last, having assembled a genuine provincial synod, one held at Clonmacnoise, the other at James' town, they determined to withdraw forthwith, all the orthodox subjects from their fealty and obedience to him having signed a public edict [to this effect] enforced by the threat of excommunication. Whereupon the Marquis, being thereby filled with indignation, having caught the Lord Bishop of Killaloe, John O'Molouna, an economical and thrifty man, who had signed that edict, and who, he had heard, had a largo treasure at home ; while staying in a certain castle in the neighbourhood, he dispatched some English spies, followers of his own, who seized upon him and upon £1400 sterling, which he had wrapped up in large woolsacks, and placed him before his judgment seat ; after committing him to custody, and thus making him pay the penalty of his own rashness and that of others, at last, after one or two months upon his asking pardon he let him go ; having in the meantime allocated all the money to the King's army. In reference to which I wrote the following verses." — Which verses we may add, with every respect for the worthy Doctor's memory, by no means reflect credit upon his muse, as will appear from the following translation, in which it will be seen we rigidly observe the critical canon of rising and falling with the original : —

    " A cool fourteen hundred the bishop had hoarded,

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 95