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. Earl of Thomond hosts President at Bunratty

   Bunratty Castle · castle · Clare · 1600

   Before departing Limerick, the Earl of Thomond invited the President to the Castle of Bunratty. Captain Gawen Harvie sailed from Cork and anchored in the Shannon with money, munition, provisions and clothing for the soldiers.

   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

2. Earls of Limerick Mansion House becomes linen factory store

   North Strand · street · Dublin

   The Mansion House of the Earls of Limerick was purchased by Messrs. J. N. Russell and Sons as a warehouse connected to their linen factory on the North Strand, employing large numbers of men and women.

   Read the passage

   2 The Bis'nop's palace continues to be the residence of the Protestant Bishop — the Mansion House of the Earls of Limerick has been purchased by Messrs. J. N. Russell and Sons as a store or warehouse in connection with their great linen factory on the North Strand, in which this enterprising firm give employment to gieat numbers of males and females.

   3 This Hospital is capable of containing 500 patients, including convalescent wards, and has attached to it nearly three statute acres of land, airing ground for the patients ; it continued to be of essential advantage to the poor of Limerick, until the year 18G1, when the Corporation, which, since the ena.tiient of the Improvement Act of 1853, has been the taxing body of the city, and which performs the functions of a Grand Jury in that particular, withdrew the sum which it had annually contributed, in continuation of the Grand Jury grant, for the support of this charity. Six members of the Corporation had been placed on the Hospital Committee some time before, but they withdrew whca the graiU ceased. In 1846, the Hospital was greatly enlarged, chiefly through the exertions of William John Geary, Esq , JLD. and J. P., lately one of the Medical Inspectors under the Poor Law Act. In times' of epidemic it had been of much public service. The County of Limerick Grand Jury continues its support to the Hospital, which receives county patients ; and a few patients from the city are also received, in consequence of

   Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 207

3. Edward IV grants charter to Limerick, 1464

   Limerick · city · Limerick · 1464

   Edward IV, made King of England on 4 March 1460, granted a charter to the city of Limerick in 1464.

   Read the passage

   It was on the 4th of March, in this year, that Edward IV. was made King of England. He granted a charter to Limerick in 1464. In 1462, the young Earl of Ormond came to Ireland with a large number of Saxons [i.e. Englishmen], a great war broke out between the Earls of Ormond and Desmond; Garrett, the son of the Earl of Desmond, was taken prisoner by the Butlers ; in successive fights the Desmonds suffered several defeats ; the Butlers in consequence rose to very great power.^ Mac PJchard Butler, who is designated the most renowned and illustrious of the Enghsh of Ireland in his time, died soon afterwards — he was educated by Eichard O'Hedigan, Archbishop of Cashel, accorduig to a memorandum on foho 115 of the Psalter of Cashel. Not satisfied with the way in which Thomas, Earl of Desmond, who had been sent over in 1464, conducted the government of Ireland, John Tiptoft, Earl of Worcester, was deputed to replace him — an occurrence, according to the annalists, which wrought the ruin of Ireland.

   The Earl was invited to Drogheda to meet Tiptoft, when taking advantage of the occasion, his enemies accused him of making alliances witli the Irish, " who were the king's enemies, and furnishing them with horses and arms against the king's subjects." He was beheaded on the 15th of February, 1467-8, by order of Tiptoft.* But these were only the pretended reasons given for his destruction. A child of his kindred and name was appointed to be executed at the same time, who besought the executioner not to hurt a boil that was upon his neck; the putting of which child to death confirms the opinion that malice and revenge were the pruicipal reasons why this Earl so unhappily lost his Hfe.^ Edward Plunkett, Esq., was also attainted at the same time for the same alleged charge, and suffered. ■ Tiptoft is said by Cox^ to have been one of the most learned and eloquent men of Christendom. One of the articles of his Parliament of Drogheda was that " none shall purchase Bulls for Benefices from Rome under legal penalty." Between the Desmonds

   Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 41

4. Famine prices at Kilrush, County Clare, 1798

   Kilrush · town · Clare · 1798

   During the crisis of 1798, oats at Kilrush in County Clare rose to 2 shillings per stone, reflecting the famine conditions that prevailed as trade and agriculture were neglected.

   Read the passage

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

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

   Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 230

   As the companion tells it

   As you come near Kilrush in County Clare, you are passing through a town that in 1798 became a measure of how bad things had grown. Old men remembered the events of that year with horror and shuddered when they spoke of them. Trade and agriculture were neglected. Famine and famine prices prevailed. At Kilrush, oats rose to 2 shillings per stone. That single figure tells you what people were facing. The Government had everything its own way. Sheriffs Lloyd and Webb were given full swing and made themselves acceptable to their patrons by the worst possible excesses. To be accused was in most instances to be condemned. Each day gave strength and power to its minions. The lash and the gibbet were in constant requisition. The shrieks of victims were heard in every quarter. The roof-tree of many a dwelling was fired by the hands not only of an infatuated yeomanry, but in many instances of men of rank and station, who thus showed the black feelings with which their hearts were filled. It was after these horrors that Lord Castlereagh and the Earl of Clare were able to carry the Act of Union, destroying the independence of a country that had given birth to both of them. Limerick lost one representative. The boroughs of Askeaton and Kilmallock were disfranchised. The only charge against one man came from someone who had never seen him and did not know him. Mr. Patrick Arthur asked whether the assistance of counsel would be allowed if his son were tried in Limerick. Colonel Cockell answered, that is not customary. The words were ominous.

5. Fanny Hulk paid off and decommissioned

   Limerick · city · Limerick · 1814

   On May 10th, the Fanny Hulk, previously mentioned as a prison hulk, was paid off and put out of commission in Limerick.

   Read the passage

   May 10th.— The Fanny Hulk, already mentioned, paid off, and put out of commission.

   June 1st.— The Inland Navigation re-opened this day, after having repaired the bursting of its banks on 5th of February, The Directors of the Inland Navigation purchased the property of this branch from the proprietors for the sum of £17,G66 13s. 4d., two-thirds of the original stock ; each share consisted of £250, for which the Directors- General paid two-thirds, Xljli 13s. 4d.— original stock 100 shares, at £250 each, £25,500.

   Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 246

6. Father O'Gorman preaching in Limerick, Clonmel, and Cork

   Limerick · city · Limerick · 1724–1730

   Father Thomas O'Gorman of the Society of Jesus came to Ireland in 1724 and distinguished himself as a preacher in Limerick, Clonmel, and Cork. He settled in Limerick in 1728 and forwarded James White in his inclination for the Church, sending him to the Irish seminary of St. Iago in Spain in 1730.

   Read the passage

   " That Father O'Gorman came to Ireland in 1724, and distinguished himself as a preacher in Limerick, Clonmel, and Cork".

   Father James M'Mahon came to Limerick ten years after Father O'Gorman, and lived there thirteen years, till his death in 1751.

   Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 383

7. Father Sheehy's vestments at Appletown

   Appletown · townland · Limerick

   Tradition held that vestments used by Father Nicholas Sheehy for his last mass were brought to Appletown by his nephew 'Buck' Sheehy while he was on the run. The vestments were valued as relics of the priest's final celebration of mass.

   Read the passage

   * By some it is stated that the vestments were brought to Appletown by " Buck " Sheehy' when he was on the run, and who valued them as the vestments in which his uncle, Father Nicholas Sheehy, last celebrated mass.

   358 HISTORY OF LIMERICK.

   Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 201

8. Fenian arrests in County Limerick

   Limerick · city · Limerick · 1865

   A conspiracy originating in America aimed at overthrowing English rule and establishing a republic was discovered and broken up in 1865. Some arrests were made in County Limerick, though no prosecutions followed there under the Treason Felony Act of 1848.

   Read the passage

   Page 738. — Fenians. — A strongly organized conspiracy, originating in America, and having for its object the overthrow of the English rule and the substitution of a republic, was discovered and broken up in 1865. Some arrests in the county Limerick were made, but there have been no prosecutions in Limerick by the crown lawyers under the " Treason Felony Act" of 1848.

   Page 688. — Note. — The Honourable Mr. Justice Shee is called " Justice Shee". This might mean a simple justice of the peace: the judges in England are called " Mr. Justice''. His lordship is the first Roman Catholic made judge in the Queen's Court in England since the Reformation. His lordship is a native of Thomastown, county of Kilkenny.

   Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni

9. Fenian fireplaces and ancient remains at Lough Gur

   near Lough Gur · lake or lakes · Limerick

   Old fireplaces of the Fenians (Fulacht na Feinne), fossil remains, bones and horns of the great Irish deer, bog butter or tallow, caves and islands were found at Lough Gur.

   Read the passage

   Old fireplaces of the Fenians {Fulacht na Feinne), fossil remains, bones, and horns of the great Irish deer ; bog butter or tallow ; caves and islands, as at Lough Gur.

   Natural Curiosities. — Castleconnell chalybeate spa, sulphuric spring at Montpellier, parish of KilnegarifF.

   Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 416

10. Foundation stone of St. Alphonsus church laid

    Henry Street · street · Limerick · 1858

    The first stone of the new Redemptorist church was laid on 30 May 1858 by Bishop J. Ryan of Limerick, assisted by Bishop D. Moriarty of Kerry, in honour of St. Alphonsus. A marble cross and tablet at the exterior of the apsis record the event.

    Read the passage

    new convent was laid by tlie Right Rev. Dr. Ryan, Bishop of Limerick, and the Fathers entered it June 24th, 1858. The first stone of the new church was laid with becoming solemnities, as already described, May 30th, 1858. The church was solemnly dedicated December 7th, 1862.

    The style of the church is the early pointed Gothic of the 13th century; the west front is varied by lines of red marble, which give it a rich effect ; and the principal porch has the tympanum of its outer door adorned with sculptures on a large scale, representing our Saviour and angels in adoration: these sculptures are surmounted by the legend, " Copiosa apud Edm Redemptio". The principal window over the porch is of great dimensions, and consists of five lancet lights. There is a clerestory and double transepts. The roof, which is a semi- octagonal ceiling, is supported by principals and collar beams, ornamented with cusped arching. The pillars on each side of the nave are surmounted by foliated capitals in Bath-stone ; the flooring is formed throughout of black and red tiles, and the sanctuary is floored with encaustic tiles of varied and beautiful design, by Minton. The arch of the apse is supported on richly sculptured Capitols resting on lofty columns of red Clare marble. The length of the church internally is 173 feet; the extreme breadth 73 feet; the main breadth throughout is 70 feet; the width of the nave is 36 feet; the width of the lateral chapels is 17 feet; the space occupied by the sanctuary is 38 feet; the internal height is 68 feet; the external is 75 feet to the ridge. An organ gallery is placed over the principal entrance, and there are two spacious sacristies, which adjoin the northern transept.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 385

11. Franciscan Abbey of Quin completed by Macnamara

    Quin · town · Clare · 1399–1400

    The Franciscan Abbey of Quin in county Clare was completed by Sioda Cam Macnamara, prince of Clan Cuilen, during the reign of Conor O'Brien, lord of Thomond.

    Read the passage

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

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 39

12. Franciscan Friars' new convent and chapel in Henry Street

    Henry Street · street · Limerick · 1821

    Around the commencement of September 1821, the foundation of a new convent and chapel for the Franciscan Friars was laid in Henry Street, Limerick.

    Read the passage

    About the commencement of September, the foundation of a new Convent and Chapel for the Franciscan Friars laid in Henry-street.

    Nov. 3rd.— John Collins, aged 114 years, died at Manister, in this countv.— Limerick Vlironicle.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 263

13. French officers arrive in Limerick

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1691

    A considerable number of French officers arrived in Limerick towards the end of April 1691, bringing news that General St. Ruth, a brave and experienced commander, would follow. Their arrival bolstered the Irish defence preparations.

    Read the passage

    A considerable number of French officers arrived in Limerick towards the end of April ; they brought an account that General St. Ruth, a brave and

    J Storey. 2 Ibid.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 140

14. French officers in Sligo and Ross granted passage

    Sligo · town · Sligo · 1691

    All general French officers, engineers, commissaries and others stationed in Sligo, Ross, Clare, or in the army, or engaged in trade or commerce, were granted free leave to pass into France with their horses, equipage, plate, papers and effects.

    Read the passage

    V — That all the general French Officers, the intendant engineer, the engineers, the commissaries of war, and the artillery, the treasurer, and other French Officers, strangers, and aU others whatsoever, that are in Sligo, Eoss, Clare, or in the army, or that do trade or commerce, or are otherways employed in any kind of station or condition, shall have free leave to pass into France, or any other country, and shall have leave to ship themselves with all their horses, equipage, plate, papers, and all their effects whatever ; and that General Ginckle will order passports for them, convoys, and carriages by land and water, to carry them safe from Limerick to the ships where they shall be embarked, without paying anything for the said carriages, or to those that are employed therein, with their horses, cars, boats, and shallops.

    VI — That if any of the aforesaid equipages, merchandize, horses, money, plate, or other moveables or household stuff belonging to the said Irish troops, or to the French Officers, or other particular persons whatsoever, be robbed, destroyed, or taken away by the troops of the said general, the said general will order them to be restored, or payment to be made according to the value that is given in upon oath by the person so robbed or plundered ; and the said Irish troops to be transported as aforesaid ; and all other persons, belonging to them, are to observe good order in their march and quarters, and shall restore whatever they shall take from the country, or make restitution for the same.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 147

15. Garrod's Island ruins and hunting grounds at Lough Gur

    near Lough Gur · lake or lakes · Limerick

    On the small tufted islet called Garrod's Island are the ruins of a castle. The hills around Lough Gur have great irregularity of outline and are said to have been hunting grounds of the ancient Irish.

    Read the passage

    Not a tree or shrub occurs anywhere near the lake, except a few near the Black Castle adjoining the farm, and on the small tufted islet called Garrod's Island, which is an object of deep interest, and on which are the ruins of a castle. The hills have a great irregularity of outline, assuming the forms of miniature mountain ranges. They are said to have been hunting grounds of the ancient Irish.*

    Some years ago, near the Black Castle, Mr. Baylee, the then landlord, cut a drain for the purpose of drawing off the water of the lake, but being killed by a fall from his horse, the work was not resumed to any extent, though there has been a considerable quantity of water drawn off. The

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 426

16. Garryowen Mills, a steam concern

    near Garryowen · population centre · Limerick

    The Russell firm operated Garryowen Mills, described as a large steam-powered milling concern. This was one of several mills contributing to the firm's commercial dominance in the Limerick region.

    Read the passage

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

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 265

17. Gerald Rochfort buried in Dominican monastery, Limerick

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1340

    Gerald Rochfort, a renowned knight and head of his sept, died on 29 March 1340 and was interred in the Dominican monastery in Limerick according to Ware.

    Read the passage

    In 1279, according to King, a general chapter of the order wa3 held there. On the loth of Jauuary, 1330, a " liberate" was issued for the sum of thirty-five marcs, for the payment of one year's pension to the Dominicans of Limerick, Dublin, Drogheda, Cork, and Waterford.' Nine liberates had been issued. In 1340 Gerakl Rochfort, a renowned knight, and liead of his sept, died on the 29th of March, and according to Ware was interred here.

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

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 372

18. Ginkle's proclamation offering pardon and employment

    Nenagh · town · Tipperary · 1691

    Ginkle issued a proclamation offering pardon and employment to those who would surrender themselves to him.

    Read the passage

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

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 141

19. Grant of King's Island to Constable of the Castle

    King's Island · townland · Limerick · 1799–1842

    In 1799, a grant was made to the Hon. William Cockayne, Constable of the Castle of Limerick, and his successors for 99 years of the King's Island, Limerick. After Cockayne's death in 1809, Colonel Vereker succeeded him, during whose lifetime the ancient office was abolished and King's Island taken back into Crown possession.

    Read the passage

    The Hon. William Cockayne was Constable of the Castle in 1799, when a grant was made to him and his successors for 99 \^ears, of the King's Island, Limerick. — See Patent, 8th July, 1799.

    He died in ltt09, and was succeeded by Colonel Charles Vereker, afterwards second Viscount "Gort, iu whose lii'etime this ancient office was abolished, and the King's Island taken back into the posses.sion of tlie Crown.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 35

20. Great frost of 1739 in Limerick

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1739

    A dreadful frost in 1739, known as the great frost, continued for forty days and was accompanied and followed by unparalleled conditions. Many memorable incidents were dated from this event, including the birth year of General Maurice de Lacy of County Limerick.

    Read the passage

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

    ' White's MSS. « Ibid. a Ibid.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 188

21. Grey Friars' churchyard and gardens leased to laymen

    Limerick · city · Limerick

    The churchyard and gardens of the Grey Friars (Franciscan friary) in Limerick were leased to various individuals including Stephen Harrold, Stephen Crevagh, and Christopher Crevagh for annual rents ranging from sixpence to sixteen pounds, marking the friary's secularisation.

    Read the passage

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

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 55

22. Hartstonge monument in Bruff church

    Bruff · town · Limerick

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

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    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.

    The Catholic church of Bruff, a handsome building in the early English style, was erected in 1833, and completed by the late Very Rev. Dean Mac Namara, P.P., V.G. The altar, which is of scagliola marble, is embellished with a very beautiful painting of the Three Marys, by the late J. Haverty, Esq.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 425

23. Infantry barracks built within Limerick walls

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1751

    An infantry barracks for four hundred soldiers was erected in 1751 within the walls and towers of Limerick. English settlers increased rapidly and introduced English habits, customs, and dress to the city.

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    he, and in the ground within the walls and towers^ an excellent Infantry Barracks for four hundred soldiers was erected in 1751. The number of English settlers now began to increase rapidly; and the introduction of English habits, customs, dress, &c. kept pace with the numbers of the new inhabitants. Outside the Avails many English families also estabhshed themselves.*

    The politic John was resolved to keep on the best terms with the Bishop and Church of Limerick after he had obtained a firm footing within the city. The question of building the Castle and other fortifications, and of strengthening himself as much as possible, was paramount with him ; but he was resolved to do so, not at the expense of the Church, by any encroachment whatever on the domains of the Bishop of Saint Mary^s Church in Limerick. It would appear that certain of his partizans had begun to occupy some of the church lands in their zeal to erect the Castle and fortifications ; but the King, before 1207, issued a prohibition against the slightest encroachment on the church properties, and in earnest and emphatic language warned, in a letter still extant,^ and addressed to his justices, bailiffs, barons, soldiers, and all his faithful subjects, in France, England, and Ireland_, telling them that the rights of his venerable father in Chiist, D. the Bishop of Limerick, should be strictly guarded, in reference to the contemj)lated Castle, and the other muniments and fortifications, and that nothing whatever should be done to interfere with the church property until his arrival in Ireland, when he expressed his determination to see the Bishop fully satisfied in every thing connected with the projected fortifications. The King fm'nished the Castle with every requisite for the defence of his newly acquired city. He not only placed constables vrithin its waUs,^ whom he invested with authority, but he

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 35

24. Inquisitions into defective land titles in Limerick and Tipperary

    Limerick · city · Limerick

    Enquiries into defective land titles were first proposed in the causes of MacBrian Gonagh, O'Mulryan and other septs in Limerick and Tipperary, who had expelled old English colonies planted there. The lands had escheated to the crown as heirs were unknown.

    Read the passage

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

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 72

25. Insurrection Act special session at Limerick Court-house

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1799

    A special session of the Insurrection Act was held at the Limerick Court-house, where a man was sentenced from the dock to transportation.

    Read the passage

    Sept. 5th. — A Special Session of the Insurrection Act held at the Court-house ; a man sent off from the dock for transportation.

    Diary of the weather for August : —

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 251

26. James I grants charter creating sheriffs in Limerick

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1608

    In 1608 James I granted a charter to the citizens of Limerick by which they obtained sheriffs and the ancient name of bailiffs was abolished.

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    1608 This year James I. granted his charter to the citizens, by which they obtained sherifi's, and the ancient name of bailiffs abolished, and the mayors increased (?) — Arthur MSS.

    1608 (7 J as.) Ihe plague at Limke., whereoff 300 dyed. Limke., Cork, and Galway, made county es. (lonmel had first a mayor and bayliffe wt. a swoord.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 406

27. James's army encamps at Slane bridge

    Slane · town · Meath · 1689

    King James's army subsequently encamped at the bridge of Slane while William's forces began their entrenchments.

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    in giving a detail of the voyage, tlie first object wliicli Storey states struck his vision was the Mourne moimtainsj in Down, on which he remarks a famous monastery was placed on the top of one of the very highest of them in times of old ; and that, throughout his History, he appears to dwell with a pleasureable interest on the antiquities of a country to which he and his friends came to exterminate the ancient race which had fostered and protected monasteries and churches, until the oppressor and devastator arrived with sword and fire. Schonberg garrisoned Carrickfergus, burned the suburbs, marched to Belfast, again to Carrickfergus, where the garrison surrendered, back to Belfast, Avhere he returned unopened a letter sent to him by the Duke of Berwick, because it was not directed to the "Duke"' Schonberg. Newry was next burned, — the people ran in terror from their homes, which they left a prey in the hands of the spoiler. ^ They then marched to Dundalk, where they encamped, and where, wandering abroad, some of them met their death at the hands of certain Eapparees, who were numerous in the neighbourhood.^ King Jameses army, 20,000 strong, lay in Drogheda at this time, where they were within a short distance of their enemy, and where they supplied themselves with a sufficiency of forage and corn. The army (Jameses) subsequently encamped at the bridge of Slane, whilst William^s began their entrenchments, and Major-General KirFs fierce battalion greatly misnomered, "Lambs/' was ordered to march on Monday, the 16th, into the trenches.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 121

28. John O'Donnell of Liberty Hall, Secretary to Free Citizens

    Thomondgate · street · Limerick · 1759–1761

    John O'Donnell of Liberty Hall, located outside Thomond Gate in Limerick, served as Secretary to the Free Citizens, a group agitating against Corporation monopoly and taxation. He energetically and ably performed his duties in organizing the political opposition.

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    Mr. John O'Donnell^ of Liberty Hall, outside Thomond Gate, was Secretary to the Free Citizens, and energetically and ably did he perform his duties. Herman Jacob, a native of Bremen and naturalized in Great Britain, now resided in Limerick, " where he followed merchandize,''^ and tendered twenty shillings to the Mayor and Council, praying to be admitted to the freedom of the city. The Mayor and twenty-eight of the CommonCouncil rejected the claim; but Mr. Jacob memorialed the Lords Justices, and when the Mayor had found that the alien had some friends, who were determined to have his petition forwarded, they thought proper to admit him to his freedom. It was mainly through the instrumentality of the " Tree Citizens'-' that Jacob obtained what he sought. " The Free Citizens" not only pulled together to obtain a release from the oppressions of taxation and monopoly, but they had their social reunions, banquets, &c. They worked with wonderful energy.' Catholics interfered only by sympathy in these demonstrations.

    1 Papers of John O'Donnell, Esq. of Liberty Hall.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 196

29. John Tuomy, Irish bard, died in Limerick 1775

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1775

    John Tuomy, whose poems appeared among the collections of the Poets of Munster, died in Limerick in 1775.

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

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 455

30. Kilcooly Abbey held by Barker descendant

    Kilcoolyabbey · townland · Tipperary · 1667

    William Ponsonby Barker, Esq., D.L., of Kilcooly Abbey, Co. Tipperary, held the Limerick estates originally granted to his ancestor William Barker in 1667. The family connection links the Pubblebrien lands to the abbey estate across the county boundary.

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    This gentleman was ancestor to William Ponsonby Barker, Esq. D.L., of Kilcooly Abbey, Co. Tipperary, who holds these estates now.

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

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 108

31. King James' pro-English sympathy at Donore hill

    Donore · town · Meath · 1690

    The poem's opening about King James coming to Ireland with an English shoe and Irish brogue, and coining brass money, is annotated as referring to his pro-English sympathy expressed on Donore hill.

    Read the passage

    No. 1. refers to King James' pro-English sympathy as expressed on Donore hill and elsewhere ; also to his Brass Money.

    No. 2. refers to the disaster on Thomond Bridge immediately upon the Capitulation.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 124

32. Land parcels near St. John's Gate held by city corporation

    Limerick · city · Limerick

    An inquisition found that parcels of Gowens lying south near St. John's Gate, together with the lands of Martui Croft and Clownegonderiske, constituted a ploughland held by the mayor and commonality of the city as part of the forty ploughlands.

    Read the passage

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

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 76

33. Laurence Nihill, Jesuit Bishop of Kilfenora, born in Limerick

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1727–1784

    Laurence Nihill of the Society of Jesus was born in Limerick in 1727 and made Bishop of Kilfenora in 1784. In 1770 he published a work in Limerick on Rational Self-Love, admired in England, France, and Ireland for its logic, philosophy, and philanthropy.

    Read the passage

    " Laurence Nihill, of the Society of Jesus, was born in Limerick", says

    ' Histoy of Limerick, by Ferrar, a Protestant Ti-riter.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 383

34. Lex Weir litigation and royal regrant

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1677

    Charles II regranted Lex weir to Sir George Preston, leading to prolonged litigation with the Limerick Corporation in the Court of Chancery. A compromise was reached when the Corporation paid Preston £1500 to acquire his interest.

    Read the passage

    Charles II. the King regrants to Sir George Preston all the aforesaid weir, called Lex weir, &c. A great deal of litigation took place between Sir George Preston and the Corporation in the Court of Chancery, in which his right was disputed.

    29th. The King in order to give Sir George a better claim, gave him another patent of the date 1677, 9th February, Charles 2nd.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 114

    As the companion tells it

    Coming through Limerick, you pass near the old Lex weir, which Charles the Second regranted to Sir George Preston. That touched off years of litigation between Preston and the Corporation in the Court of Chancery, with the city disputing his right. In February 1677 the King issued Preston another patent to strengthen his claim.

35. Limerick citizens enjoined to preserve commonage lands

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1565

    In 1565, the Justiciary of Ireland commanded the Mayor, Bailiffs, and citizens of Limerick to observe the injunctions of the late Viceroy Sussex, cautioning them not to sell any of the ancient commonage lands but to preserve them for public service.

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    tions of Sussex, lately Yiceroy of Ireland, recently given to tliein by his letters, by which he cautions them that they should not dare, even in the slightest particular, to sell any one of the ancient commonage lands, but that they should preserve them entire to be expended in the public service and requirements . '

    At this period a very remarkable man lived in Limerick, and taught school. This was John Goode, a Catholic Priest, of the order of Jesus, some time educated at Oxford. He was a man of extraordinary erudition, and gave great aid to Camden in that portion of his Britannia which treats of Ireland, " 'Tis strange^^ (says Nicholson) that a writer so much honoured by this great British antiquary, who gives a high character of this gentleman's modesty and learning, should be overlooked by Sir James Ware and the Oxford antiquarians. "2

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 58

36. Limerick Corporation creates 150 freemen to secure majority

    Limerick · city · Limerick

    On 5 May, the Corporation party in the Council admitted 150 freemen, chiefly strangers, to ensure a majority in the Court of D'Oyer Hundred. The author notes this was a heavy blow to the Corporation and ironically inflicted by honest Protestants.

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    5. On the 5th of May, the Corporation party in the Councd made 150 freemen, chiefly strangers, in order to have a majority among the freemen in the Court of D^Oyer Hundred.

    This movement was a heavy blow to the Corporation ; and that it was infhcted by the hands of honest Protestants must be ever a cause of sincere congratulation to the citizens of Limerick. i

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 198

37. Limerick Corporation honours Attorney-General after State Trials

    Limerick · city · Limerick

    On 10 October the Corporation of Limerick presented the freedom of the city in a silver box to the Right Hon. Standish O'Grady, Attorney-General, expressing warm approbation of his upright conduct during the State Trials at the Special Commission in Dublin.

    Read the passage

    tenant to induce the passing of such a resolution. On the 10th of October, same year, the Corporation presented the freedom of the city in a silver box to the Right Hon. Standish O'Grady, Attorney-General, as expressive of " the warm approbation felt for his upright conduct during the whole of the late State Trials at the Special Commission held in Dubhn, and just now terminated.''^'

    With the rapid increase of the New Town, and the equally rapid decay of the old, arose conflicting interests manifested their existence in various hostile over acts on the part of the Corporation. The Merchants early resolved on providing a becoming building for themselves. ^ The Independent Citizens who desired self government and control over taxation, were every day becoming more numerous, freer from the trammels of party and faction, and more resolved on possessing for themselves the means of governing the New Town at least, on just and equitable principles. The growth of the New Town in rapidity and beauty, resembled more that of some Australian city, than anything to which we can compare it ; and hence it became imperative on the inhabitants not only to resist every effort of the Corporation to possess authority in the New Town, in the way of taxation, but to provide for the

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 237

38. Limerick Custom-house burnt (1741)

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1741

    The Limerick Custom-house was burnt in 1741 and subsequently rebuilt.

    Read the passage

    Custom-house burnt (1741), 336; built, 356; revenue of, 356 ; duties of in 1S65, 627.

    Dalcassian troops, defeat of (1009), 22; wars with

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 457

39. Limerick Dominican monastery suppressed and granted to Earl of Desmond

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1544–1623

    At the general suppression, Prior Edmond held the site, church, steeple, dormitory, cemetery, and lands including thirty acres called Courttrocke. In January of the 35th year of Henry VIII, the monastery was granted to James Earl of Desmond at a yearly rent of 6s. 2d.

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    January 7th, and 35th Henry VIIL, this monastery, with the appurtenances thereunto belonging, tithes excepted, and thirty acres of land, were granted to James Earl of Desmond, in capite, at the yearly rent of OS. 2d. sterling. J J

    And an inquisition taken 23rd August, 1623, finds that James Gould, ' St. Domiaiek's Well is uear where the ditch ran.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 373

40. Limerick Institution moves to former Roche banking house

    Henry Street · street · Limerick · 1809–1858

    The Limerick Institution, established in 1809 with reading rooms and a library, moved in 1858 from No. 49 Henry Street to the former banking house and residence of Mr. Roche on the same street. Admission is by ballot and subscription or life membership.

    Read the passage

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

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 205

41. Limerick weir fishery valued by royal inquisition

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1274–1275

    A commission under Geoffry de Genyville inquired into the Limerick weir fishery, which citizens had received from Maurice Fitzgerald for a triennial term. A 1275 inquisition before twenty-four jurors declared the weir worth twenty marks per year in all issues of the fishery.

    Read the passage

    were citizens of Limerick in the 1 7th of king John's reign. — Arthur MSS. 2 Close Roll, M». 10°. ' on the 27th of October, 2nd Edward I., 1274, a commission was issued to Geoffry da Genyville to enquire into certain petitions of the citizens of Limerick, including among other matters the weir which 27 years l)efore, they received from Maurice Fitzgerald, then justiciary of Ireland, for a triennial term and not beyond, for 100 marks to king Henry, and how much the said weir may be worth by the year, in all the issues, &c. The inquisition was taken in Limerick, 4th Edward I., 1275, on Friday next after the feast of king Edmund the Martyr, before twenty-four jurors, in which they declare the weir is worth in all issues of the fishery by the year, to wit, in common years, and also in time of peace, twentj^ marks, &c. The names of the citizens before whom this inquisition was taken, are as follow ; — Lord Eustace de Rupe, Richard Laynach,

    Lord Hugh Porcel, Alexander Wale,

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 36

42. Limerick wrested from the English and burned by O'Brien

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1174

    Limerick, which had been surrendered to Henry, King of England, by O'Brien, was wrested from the English and set on fire by O'Brien in 1174.

    Read the passage

    Limerick city, fouiiUation of, 1; description of, 1; ancient history of, 2,6; built by Yvorus 2; Luimeneoch-Leatlianglas, proper name of Liniericli, 3; Christianity introduced in 434. 3; cathedial (see Cathedrali founded, by St. Munchin, 5 ; battle between Callachau and the Danes (945), 8 ; besieged by (J'brien (tenth century j, 10; King Donald, his l;fe and endowments, 29; founds cathedral (1194;, 30; surrendered by O'Brien, king of Thomond to Henry king ol England, 37; wrested trom the English (1174), and set on fire by O'Brien 43 ; invaded by Kaymond le Gros, 43; under the English, 47; charter by English (1197,) 47; set on tire temp, John, 49; English faiuilies in, etc., 51 ; disputes as to possession (1205), 54; besieged by Bruce (1316), 61; Lord Grey attacks, 81 ; court held there, 93; citizens aid the arrest of Earl of Desmond (see Desmond), 97 ; mayor and citizens assist Lord Justice Pelham, 1579, 102 ; visited by Sir John Perrot, 114 ; boundaries in 1609, 135 ; Papists to be cleared out of 203; garrisoned by French (1690), 213; fortifications of, 218 defence of (.1691), 261; (s«e £vent$.)

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 457

43. Manister Abbey architectural description

    Manister · townland · Antrim

    The abbey consists of a church and convent on the banks of the Commogue, with the convent so ruinous as to defy description. The nave contains Saxon or Norman features and the choir is entirely pointed, with a noble square tower having fallen about sixty years before the author's visit.

    Read the passage

    Some few of its features are worth being looked at. but, on the whole, it will not stand comparison with some, I may say the majority of our Munster abbeys. The abbey of Manister consisted of church and convent : the latter stands at the south side of the church, and is so ruinous, consisting of detached ragged fragments, that it defies description. The cloister, Avhich was large, is scarcely distinguishable. There is no trace of a stone arcade, and I believe there never had been any. The front, or north wall of the church, faces the river Comogue. The church consists of nave and choir. If there was a transept, it has totally disappeared. A blank wall of great height divides the two portions of the church, and admits of communication only by a low pointed doorway six feet high by five broad. The two portions thus divided belong to very different architectural eras, the nave containing Saxon or Norman features, the choir being entirely pointed. The nave thus is the more ancient, and doubtlfss the portion built by the king of Limerick. The part of the nave adjoining the choir contains at either side two lofty pointed arches of plain (Fitzgerald says beautiful) masonry: those at the south side open into the field: whether there was any building there into which they opened, is only probable, for its traces are quite gone. The arches at the south side open into a low side aisle, running parallel with the south wall of the nave : these arches are of a similar plain and massive character. The west wall contains the principal ancient feature, viz., the remains of a low semicircular doorway of plain workmanship, formed of blocks of red grit. The chevron, zig-zag, etc., and all the other characteristic ornaments of the Hiberno- Romanesque style, are absent. Over this door are two round-headed windows faced with the same red stone, worked in a large cylindrical moulding, which runs along the edges of the jambs and arches. Above these is a string course of the same form and stone, accompanying the outhne of the window heads at about one foot distance. High up in the south wall are two plain round-headed windows, and near them on the outside at the s.w. angle of the nave, part of the wall or steeple of the old belfry remains, rather an unusual situation for this structure, but as the whole church seems to have consisted of parts built and added long after the original church was founded, the want of unity of purpose and this choice of situation are easily accounted for. The tower, which was a noble square structure of great height, fell about sixty years ago. The choir is accessible only from the nave by a side door in the south wall, of small dimensions, which opened into the body of the convent. The altar or chancel end is covered over by a broad and pointed arch, thirty feet broad, which for about sixteen feet covers this portion of the church : it springs from either wall of the choir, and attains a good elevation at the base of the soffits ; a stone frieze runs along its whole course, and the outer part is sustained by tall pilasters, or antge, rounded at the angles, with laboured bases and capitals, decorated with leaves of a graceful pattern, the whole remarkably well wrought in a light brown coloured grit. The walls containing the choir to ics junction with the nave, contained one or two considerable windows, and in the centre of each wall, opposite each other, and partly hidden by the masonry of the Avails, is a round column of same stone as that in the antae. The capitals are beautiful specimens of the skill and taste of the sculptors, consisting of leaves and flowers of d liferent patterns, although undoubtedly not copied from nature, the designs belonging to the artists

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 430

44. Manister church larger and more ornate than St. Mary's

    Manister · townland · Antrim

    The grand church at Manister, built by an O'Brien twenty-four years before St. Mary's, had a tower on the south side of the western front and was larger than St. Mary's Cathedral, more ornate, and more carefully constructed. The tower is now gone.

    Read the passage

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

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 318

45. Mayor of Limerick fined for castle repairs

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1600

    Sir Geoffry Galway, a lawyer of eminence and Mayor of Limerick, was turned out of office and made to pay a fine of £500, which was spent repairing the castle of Limerick by order of the President.

    Read the passage

    About this time Sir Geoffry Galway, Bart, a lawyer of eminence. Mayor of Limerick, was tm-ned out of his office and made to pay a fine of £500, which was expended in the repair of the castle of Limerick, by the Presi-

    1 Cox.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 69

46. Mayor Ryan restores ancient arms of Limerick over city jail

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1859

    Mayor Michael R. Ryan restored the ancient arms of Limerick, according to the Corporate seal, over the city jail and other public buildings, and had them engraved on the coat buttons of the sergeants at mace and bailiffs.

    Read the passage

    Mr. Ryan restored the ancient arras of Limerick, according to the Corporate seal of the city, OTer the city jail and other public etUflces, and had them engraved on tlie coat buttons of the sergeants at mace and bailiffs. Mrs. Ryan presented by the Corporation with a silver cradle on the occasion of the birth of a sou during her husband's year of office.

    1860 Wm. Fitzgerald, Edward Murphy.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 413

47. Meeting at Adare to appoint baronial constables of police

    Adare · townland · Limerick · 1822

    A requisition by 52 magistrates requested a meeting at Adare on November 4th to appoint 176 baronial constables of police in County Limerick, under the Lord Lieutenant's proclamation for preserving the peace during the winter.

    Read the passage

    1822 — A requisition to the High Sheriff issued by 52 magistrates, requesting a meeting at Adare on the 4th of November, to appoint 176 baronial constables of police in this county, under the Lord Lieutenant's proclamation for the better preservation of the peace during the following winter. Major Wilcox will have the choice and recommendation of this body of men.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 260

48. Mugron O'Morgair died at Mungret Abbey, 1102

    Mungret · town · Limerick · 1102

    On the 5th of October 1102, the blessed Mugron O'Morgair, principal professor of Divinity at Armagh and in the west of all Europe, died at Mungret Abbey.

    Read the passage

    1080. The abbey suffered much this year from a general conflagration.'* 1088. Donal M'Lochloin, with the forces of Ulster, destroyed this abbey.'* 1102. On the 5th of October, died in this abbey the blessed Mugron O'Mor-

    gair, principal professor of Divinity at Armagh, and in the west of all Europe.'* A.D. 731. According to the Annals of the Four Masters^ the death of Molua,

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 311

49. Mungret bishop's manor of six plow-lands

    Mungret · town · Limerick

    Mungret was one of the bishop's manors, containing six large plow-lands, part of the extensive cathedral property of the Diocese of Limerick.

    Read the passage

    With respect to the property of the cathedral in its ancient state, there can be no question of its extent, and of the jealous care with which it was preserved. Grants of land were frequently made to the cathedral ; whilst, as we perceive by the Black Book, the possessions in mortmain of all the churches of Limerick have been taken into account in the Patent and Close Rolls of Chancery in several successive reigns. These lands were most frequently leased out to tenants. The bishop's manors, of which Mungret, containing six large plow-lands, was one, Kilmallock another, which " hath been ever the bishop's manor", where the bishop was lord paramount, when it (Kilmallock) was a strong walled town ; where tlie bishop had a fair which he purchased for £10 from David Lord BaiTy ; where he held a court twice a year, had a mill, a bake-house, and a shambles; where all persons should grind at the bishop's mill, bake at his bake-house, and pay for the shambles according to custom ; and whcj-e the burgesses and townsmen were called and impannelled as juries in the bishop's court.' Ardagh, as we have above seen, Avas another bishop's manor in which bishops held courts and received rents ; Drumdeely was another ; and there is an entry in the little Black Book^ (quoted by Bishop Adams),

    ' See Black Book and Bishop Adams's MSS., account of the property, etc. ' See also folio 7, p. 2, of the Black Book, and folio 8, p. 1, in the two offices of inquieition, where Drumdeely is found to he the bishop's land.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 325

50. New Catholic Church consecrated at Ballysteen

    Ballysteen · townland · Limerick · 1862

    On 6 April, a new Catholic Church was consecrated at Ballysteen, marking an important event for the local Catholic community.

    Read the passage

    April 6. — New Catholic Church consecrated at Ballysteen. Death of Colonel Doheny. Murders of Gustavo Thiebault and Maguire in Tipperary.

    May 6th. — Murder of Francis Fitzgerald, Esq. , of Kilmallock, for which Beckham and Walsh were hung at the Special Commission which opened June 16. Dillane suffered death for the same crime after.vards.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 301

51. New school-house built at convent for 1,000 children

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1864–1865

    A new school-house foundation stone was laid on 4 August 1864 at a cost of £400 to the nuns, as existing schools could not contain the great numbers of children attending. By 1865 the schools provided moral, religious, and industrial education to nearly 1,000 children.

    Read the passage

    The Schools having been found incapable of containing the great numbers of children who frequent them, the foundation stone of a new school-house was laid on the 4th of August, 1864, at a cost to the nuns of £400. These additional schools are now (1865) also in operation, and afford amoral, religious and industrial education to nearly 1,000 children who should otherwise be destitute of so great a blessing. The late Eight Rev. Dr. Eyan, Catholic Bishop of Limerick, was a munificent benefactor of these schools and of this truly excellent establishment.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 281

52. O'Briens settled at Comeragh Mountains, Waterford

    near Comeragh Mountains · mountain or mountain range · Waterford · 1413

    James, Earl of Desmond, granted to the descendants of Torlogh O'Brien part of the lands about the Comeragh Mountains in 1413, where their posterity were still known as the Waterford O'Briens.

    Read the passage

    We resume the Annals of Tliomond, already given in summary. Mahon Maonmaighe O^Brien, tlie eldest son of Murtogh, tlie usurping king of Thomond, who accordmg to the Eour Masters, deposed his uncle Dermod in 1363, is gratefully remembered by nationalists for having compelled the English of North Munster to pay the DubcMos or black rent. Twelve years of this princess reign were spent in feuds, chiefly excited by the intrigues of the English. He was succeeded by his brother Torlogh, surnamed Mael or the Bald. The new king was dethroned and banished from Thomond by his nephew, Brian Catha an Aonaigh, and took refuge in the county Watcrford with Garrett, Earl of Desmond, who, leading an army to reinstate him in his dominions, was met and totally defeated by Brian. This battle was fought on the banks of the Maig, now Monaster Nenagh, in the county Limerick, near the celebrated Monastery founded in 1131 by Tui-logh O^Brien. On this occasion the Earl of Desmond, John Fitz Nicholas, and Sir Thomas Eitzjohn, with many other nobles, were taken by O^Brien and ]\iacnamara of Thomond, in the Abbey. It was from this battle, in which Brian Catha obtained a great victory, that he received the surname of Aonach, from the fair green on which it was fought. The Eour Masters state that on this occasion " Limerick was burned by the Thomonians and the Claincuilen (the MacNamaras), upon which the inhabitants capitulated with O^Brien. Sioda Cam (Macnamara,) son of the daughter of O'Dwyer (of Kilnemanagh) assumed the Wardenship of the io-wa. ; but the EngHsh who were in it acted treacherously towards him and killed him.''^ The same authority states that Brien O'Brien, lord of Thomond, was banished by Turlough, son of Murtogh O'Brien and the Clanrickardes ; from which it appears that Turlogh Mael Avas set up again by the Enghsh. In this feud the Macnamaras followed opposite parties. The death of Turlogh Mael in the English Pale is recorded by the Four Masters as having taken place in 1398, which was the year in which his patron Garrett or Gerald also died. James, the successor of this Earl, obtained a grant of the territory east of the Blackwater from Henry V. in 1413, in which year also he granted to the descendants of Torlogh O'Brien a part of the lands about the Comeragh Mountains, where their posterity are still known as the Waterford O'Briens.*

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 39

53. O'Kearney announces consecration at St. Mary's chapel, Limerick

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1760

    On 29 January 1760, Dr. O'Kearney informed clergy assembled at St. Mary's chapel, Limerick, of his election and consecration as Bishop of Limerick.

    Read the passage

    In consequence of the Pope's bull, vrhich bore date the 27tli of November, 175 y, the Right Rev. Dr. 0"Kearney was consecrated, at Thurlee, Bishop of Limerick, on Sunday, the 27th of January, 1760, by his Grace the Most Rev. Dr. James Butler, Archbishop of Cashel, two ecclesiastical dignitaries having assisted in the room of two bishops, by virtue of a Papal indulgence to that effect. On Tuesday, the 29th of the same month, Dr. O'Kearney informed some of his clergy who had assembled at St. Mary's chapel. Limerick, of his election and consecration, they having met his lordship for that purpose. The court of Rome at the same time granted him a bull for the parish of St. John's with all its annexes, which had been before possessed by the deceased prelate. Dr. Lacy. On the 10th of May, Dr. O'Kearney was inducted into the parish in question by the Very Rev. Michael Hoare, ex-Provincial of the Dominicans, by directions of his grace the Archbishop of Cashel. Though the penal laws existed in their

    ^ White's MSS. "-Ibid.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 358

54. Outrages on Earl of Devon's estates at Newcastle

    Newcastle · town · Limerick

    The Earl of Devon held estates at Newcastle where outrages were committed.

    Read the passage

    Devon, Earl of, his estates at Newcastle, 449 ; outrages on, 449, 455.

    Diarmid defeats Donogh O'Brien (1056), 19.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 457

55. Parliament held in Limerick under Earl of Kildare

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1434

    In 1434, with Gerald Earl of Kildare as Lord Deputy, a parliament was held in Limerick.

    Read the passage

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

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

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 401

56. Pass of Shannon betrayed to William

    Shannon · town · Clare · 1691

    The pass of the Shannon was betrayed to William, and Ginkle made a pass in 1691, both tied to military action during the Williamite war.

    Read the passage

    Pass of Shannon betrayed to William, 229 ; Pass by Ginkle in 1691. 27G, 277, 2;)0.

    Patrick (see Saint Fatrick), Bishop, notice of, 544, 546; Father, 667.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 457

57. Patrick Ivis executed at New Gaol

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1799

    Patrick Ivis, aged sixty, was executed at the New Gaol in Limerick pursuant to sentence at the last Assizes. He acknowledged his guilt before execution.

    Read the passage

    August 18th. — Patrick Ivis executed at the New Gaol, pursuant to sentence at the last Assizes. He acknowledged his guilt ; he was sixty years of age.

    August 22nd James Connell and John Dundon executed at the New Gaol, pursuant to

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 251

58. Philip Roche's father fits out Letter of Marque ship

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1756

    Philip Roche's father, two years before the petition, fitted up the Catherine Letter of Marque mounting fourteen sixteen-pounders, the first ship of its kind seen in Limerick, for the West India trade.

    Read the passage

    2 White's MSS. Philip Roche became one of the greatest merchants in the South of Ireland. His father, two years before, fitted up the Catherine Letter of Marque, mounting foiurteen sixteen-pounders, — the first ship of the kind ever seen in Limerick — for the West India trade.

    3 White's MSS.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 196

59. Plassy Mills on the Shannon

    Plassy · site · Limerick

    The Russell firm operated Plassy Mills, located farther up the Shannon from Limerick city. These were part of the network of mills that made the Russells the largest millers in Ireland by 1865.

    Read the passage

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

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 265

60. Priesthood conferred on Timothy Flynn in St. John's Chapel

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1764

    On 7 April 1764, priesthood was conferred on Rev. Timothy Flynn by Dr. Kearney in St. John's Chapel, Limerick. Flynn was a Doctor of Nantz and Professor of Theology who later served as curate and parish priest in several Limerick parishes.

    Read the passage

    The Rev. Timothy Flynn, on whom Priesthood was conferred by the Right Rev. Dr, Kearney, in St. John's Chapel of Limerick, on the 7th of April, 1764, was Doctor of Nantz, Professor of Theology, returned to Ireland in the year 1794, or 5, was curate of St. John's under the Right Rev. Doctor Conway, succeeded the Right Rev. Dr. John Young in the Parish of St. Mary, 1796, as Dean and Parish Priest, was translated thence to St. Michael's in the year 1805, and died 17th April, 1813. He was succeeded in St. Michael's Parish by the Rev. Patrick Hogan, inducted 24th of April, 1813, by the Rev. Charles Hanrahan, P.P. of St. Mary's, under the special mandate of the Right Rev. Dr. Young, who forthwith made him Vicar General. The Rev, P. Ilofjan's Note. The Very Rev. P. Hogan died Parish Priest of St. Michael's in 183?, and a beautiful monument was raised to his memory in St. Michael's Church. * White's MSS.

    356 HISTORY OF LIMERICK.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 199