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. Sewer works in Irishtown and Newtown under Mayor Tinsley

   Irishtown · townland · Limerick · 1865

   Through the exertions of Mayor Tinsley, approximately £3,000 was expended in making sewers through the Irishtown and portions of the Newtown, providing employment for distressed labouring poor and improving sanitation.

   Read the passage

   ■•'Through the exertions of the Mayor a sum of about £3,000 was expended through the Irishtown and portions of the Newtown in making sewers.

   Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 302

2. Sheehy family of Ballyallinan by the river Deel

   Ballyallinan · electoral division · Limerick

   The Sheehy family descended from the ancient family of Ballyallinan, near the river Deel in the barony of Connelloe, County Limerick. Related branches included the Sheehys of Drumcolleher and Ballintubber.

   Read the passage

   ' The Rev. Nicholas Sheehy when hunted by the minions of the law, proceeded to the county of Limerick, to the residence of his cousin, Eoger Sheehy, Esq. , of Appletown, where he left a suit of satin crimson vestments fringed with gold. Mr. Roger Sheehy was grandfather of Bryan Keating Sheehy, Esq., J. P. of Garbally, Newcastle, West, who has these vestments yet in his possession, and who values them highly.* These Sheehys descended from the ancient Sheehy family of Ballyallinan, near the river Deel, in the barony of Connelloe, Co. Limerick, whose descendants also were the Sheehys of Drumcolleher and Ballintubber, Co. Limerick. The Rev. Nicholas Sheehy was son of Francis Sheehy, Esq., of Glenahira, near the Cummeragh mountains, Co. Waterford — whose brothers were Roger of Dromculloher, who died without issue ; Bryan of Gardenfield, the father of Roger who lived at Appletown ; and William of Corbally, Co. Cork, who was grandfather of William Sheehy, Esq. of the same place. From the Cummeragh branch descended " Buck" Sheehy, who was executed at Clogheen, in 1772, and who was father of Colonel Sheehy, a distinguished officer of the French Service, who became aide-de-camp to Wolfe Tone, and also father of Mrs. Power, wife of Michael Power, Esq., J. P. of Clonmel, who had two daughters, Margaret and Ellen, both very beautiful ; the first became Countess of Blessington, and the other the wife the Rt. Hon. Charles Manners Sutton, afterwards Lord Canterbury. The gifted Countess was fond of tracing her descent from the Earls of Desmond maternally through the Shehys. 3 Amyas Griffith's Tracts.

   * Mr. John Creagh, re-erected in Broad-street, in the Irishtown, the ancient buildings which in 1G40 had been built by his ancestor Pierce Creagh, and which had been known in tho last century as the Bear Inn. These houses were seventy feet in front, and were considered the oldest in the Irishtown. On a chimney-piece in these buildings was this inscription : —

   Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 200

3. Sir Walter Raleigh's lands at Affane

   Affane · townland · Waterford

   Affane was granted to Sir Walter Raleigh along with other places. It was here that Raleigh grew the first cherries in Ireland.

   Read the passage

   * Affane. — Tliis place was granted, together with other places, to Sir Walter Raleigh. It was here that he grew the first cherries, as it was in Youghal that he grew the first potatoes.

   Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 57

4. Sir William Burke made Baron of Castleconnell

   Castleconnell · town · Limerick · 1580

   On 15 May 1580, the Lord Justice received a commission from Elizabeth to make Sir William Burke Baron of Castleconnell, with a yearly pension of a hundred marks during life.

   Read the passage

   was again apprehended and confined, until by letters from London, the government was assured of his being enlarged there. Upon his return to his own country he retired from the noise of the world, and built, for himself, near the side of a lonesome wood, a Httle cabin made up of wattles, wherein he spent the remainder of his days in divine meditations, in consoling his distressed flock, in administering the sacraments, and in aU other works of piety and charity ; at length, consumed with labour and overcome by many hardships, he died, in the odour of sanctity, in the year 1579, and was buried in a convent of Franciscans in Muskerry, called the Cellecrea.* Nor were these dreadful crimes perpetrated on such men only as Doctor Hely, and his companion. Father 0''Rourke, and the Bishop of Ross ; the terrors of the time are indescribable. On the 11th of February, a commission of martial law was sent to Sir Warham Saint Ledger, then the Lord Justice, who remained three weeks at Waterford, whence he went to Clonmel, where Ormond met him, and thence to Limerick. His baggage was carried a great part of the way on men^s shoulders for want of carriage horses, or because of the badness of the way, or both; and at Limerick, the chancellor of the diocese was found guilty of high treason, for corresponding with Desmond, but he made a shift to get a pardon, while the Bishop of Limerick, who was also shrewdly suspected, was merely confined to his house.^ On the 10th of March, Ormond and the Lord Justice met at Rathkeale ; next day they passed over the bridge of Adare, and returned at night and invaded ConneUoe, and having done what mischief he could there, proceeded to Carrigfoyle, which he took, and hanged Captain Julio, an Itahan engineer, who commanded the garrison ; and on the 3rd of April, 1580, laid siege to the castle of Askeaton, one of the most magnificent castles in the country, which the garrison deserted, and which the Lord Justice partially destroyed by gunpowder, leaving the towers untouched, as they remain to this day. Askeaton and Ballyheige castles, in Kerry, which were taken at the same time, were the last castles of the great Desmond. Having left four companies at Askeaton, the Lord Justice returned to Limerick on the 5th of April ; Ormond proceeded to Kilkenny, Malby to Connaught, and the others to Dublin.^ But the Lord Justice did not rest in Limerick. He proceeded (" by sea" ?) to Adare, and sent Captain Case by land, where, we are told, they both returned " after the slaughter of many traytors, with a prey of twelve hundred cows and as many sheep."* On the 15th of May he received a commission from Elizabeth to be Lord Justice, and another to make Sir Wilham Burke Baron of CastleconneD, with a yearly pension of a hundred marks during life.^ On the 13th of this month Pope Gregory the Thirteenth granted to all Irishmen who would fight against the Queen, the same plenary pardon and remission of all their sins, as to those that were engaged in the Holy War against the Turks. ^

   Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 62

5. Sir William King granted castle and town of East Caherelly

   Caherelly · parish · Limerick · 1660–1670

   Sir William King was granted the castle, town, and lands of East Caherelly along with Boherduffe, Ballysallagh, and Knockcarragh, totalling 696 acres plus a 34-acre adjoining island, in the Barony of Clanwilliam.

   Read the passage

   Sir William King, Knt. was granted the castle, town, and lands of Killpeakan and Kilmorrismore, 481a. 2r. 19p, stat. £9 4s. |d. (Bar. Small Co). The castle, town, and lands of East Caherelly, Boherduffe, Ballysallagh, and Knockcarragh, 696a. an island adjoining, 34a. The castle, town and lands of West Caherelly, 402, Ballyblacker, part of Ballybricken, 40a. (Bar. Clanwilliam). Total quantity 1898a. Ir. 39p. stat. Total rent, £17 15s. ll|d. In Kilfrush, 301a. Ir. 6p. stat. £2 16s. 6d. (Bar. Small County). South, North, and East Ballyhindon and Graige, 157a. 3r. 26p. Ballygymoe, and several other denominations, making a total of 1466a. and 34p. stat. Total rent, £13 4s. lid. Park and Kebouge, 258a. lip. In Carnarry 130a. South Liberties of Limerick. Total quantity, 808a. Ir. 8p. statute. Total rent, £7 Us. 6fd.

   Samuel Mollyneux, Esq., obtained several grants in Clanwilliam. Total 1085a. 12r. 25p. stat. Inrolled 5th of October, 1666.

   Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 108

6. Six bishops buried in Dominican monastery, Limerick

   Limerick · city · Limerick · 1250–1391

   An ancient sepulchral inscription recorded that six prelates were buried in the Dominican monastery: Hubert Burke of Limerick, Matthew and Donald of Killaloe, and Christian, Maurice, and Simon of Kilfenora. The inscription requested prayers for their souls.

   Read the passage

   Six prelates here do lie, and in their favour

   I beg your friendly prayers to Christ our Saviour ;

   Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 372

7. Souper riots at Pallaskenry

   Pallaskenry · town · Limerick · 1862

   On 13 June, souper riots broke out at Pallaskenry, reflecting sectarian tensions over proselytism in the locality.

   Read the passage

   June 13. — Souper riots at Pallaskenry.

   July 4. — Council meet to address the Prince of Wales on his visit to Ireland.

   Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 301

8. South door and porch added to St. Mary's Cathedral, 1680

   Limerick · city · Limerick · 1680

   In 1680 a south door and porch were added to St. Mary's Cathedral, with a pavement made from them to the main street, or Mary Street. Previously the grand entrance had been at the western door.

   Read the passage

   During the incumbency of the Kev. Dean Hoare, in 1759, while Mr. Sexton Baylee was mayor, a sum of £L,327 14s. ^■^d. was expended in repairs, alterations, and restorations, under the dii'cctions of the rev. gentleman. A sum of £100 was raised by the sale of pews at this peiiod. In 1680, the south door and porch (as seen in the view of the cathedral given in Ware's Bishops), were added to the church, and a pavejnent made from them to the main street, or Mary Street. Previous to this, the grand entrance was at the w^estern door, to which it has again been changed, and ■where it is likely to remain as required by the conveniences of the approaches, and the disposition, etc., of the interior of the cathedral.

   596 HISTORY OP LIMERICK.

   Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 342

9. Survey of forfeited lands in County Limerick

   Limerick · city · Limerick · 1603

   A survey was made of the lands in the county of Limerick which were forfeited in the reign of Queen Elizabeth, following the pacification of Munster.

   Read the passage

   The Annals of the ]\Iasters for this year end with this entry, " an intolerable famine prevailed all over Ireland.-** Moryson gives a frightful account of this famine, wliich the English caused in Ireland " by destrojdng the rebels* corn, and using all means to punish them j**^ and, no doubt, the Irish had been utterly destroyed by famine, had not a general peace shortly followed Tyrone*s submission. There was a survey made of the lands in the county of Limerick which were forfeited in the reign of Queen Elizabeth.^

   Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 71

10. Terrific storm devastates Limerick

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1839

    On 6 January 1839, one of the most terrific storms ever remembered visited Limerick, and several lives were lost. This was the Night of the Big Wind, a catastrophic event across Ireland.

    Read the passage

    January 6th, 1839 One of the most terrific storms ever remembered visited Limerick ; several

    lives were lost.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 282

11. Tower of Limerick blown up 1693

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1693

    A tower in Limerick was blown up in 1693, in the aftermath of the Williamite wars. This destruction is recorded among the military events affecting the city's fortifications.

    Read the passage

    Tower of Limerick blown up [1693], 295.

    Tower of Is a Clona, 623 ; ot Cogan, 696.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 457

12. Tumulus and raths at Bruree

    Bruree · town · Limerick

    Bruree contained a tumulus and one of the largest raths in the county. The raths are described as dwellings of chiefs or kings, with some containing beehive-like cavities probably intended as granaries.

    Read the passage

    Tumulus^ at Bruree, stone circles and other druidical works at Grange,

    ' This truly beautiful and admirably illustrated book, which is the joint production of tlie Countess Dowager of Dunraven and tlie Earl of Dunraven, was printed for private circulation in 1865, by Parker, Oxford, and is replete with most interesting and important matter, relative to Adare, ancient and modern, the Quin family, etc., etc.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 416

13. Turnpike road revenues — Bruff, Ardskeagh, Blackboy

    Bruff · town · Limerick · 1741–1742

    Returns for the nine years ending 1741 showed meagre turnpike revenues: Bruff or Limekiln averaged about £62 per year, Ardskeagh £85, and Blackboy £195, reflecting the severe economic decline during the famine period.

    Read the passage

    3 The returns of the Bruff or Limekiln Turnpike for the nine years ending in 1741, showed an averao^e of about £G2 per year ; Ardskeagh Turnpike, £85, and Blackboy, £195. Out of this income, wages of collectors and other monies were deducted, leaving a very small comparative nett income. To afford an idea of the character and quantity of the traffic by the principal Trunkpike (the Blackboy) in this year, we give the subjoined return from the official document,

    for one week, in June, 1742 :— ^ ^ t> tv i i? ^

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 189

14. Vandeleur's hospital attempt on Little Island

    near Little Island · townland · Cork · 1750

    In 1750, Surgeon Giles Vandeleur made an unavailing effort to establish a hospital at his own expense on the Little Island in Limerick. The attempt failed despite his personal funding.

    Read the passage

    Mr. Pery, ever active in charitable deeds, gave a small plot of ground in St. Francis's Abbey, to Mr. Charles Smyth and the Eev. Dean Hoare, at a pepper-corn rent, on which an hospital, containing forty beds, was built ; and as this hospital was outside the walls, and in the county, the act, which had just come into existence, in reference to county hospitals, was appUed to it ; subscriptions were obtained, not only from the city and county of Limerick, but from Tipperary, Clare, and Kerry, and at a general meeting of the subscribers it was unanimously resolved — that the benefits arising from the Act should be extended to the Limerick county hospital. In 1750, Surgeon Giles Vandeleur had made an unavailing endeavour to estabhsh, at his own expense, a Hospital in the Little Island. In 1761, a charity sermon was preached at St. Mary's Cathedral, and a play was acted to revive the charity, to which surgeon Sylvester O'Halloran gave his gratuitous professional services. Other improvements were made about this period. A Deanery House had been already built off Bow-lane, m 1764.^ A flouiishing paper mill existed at this time, under the proprietorship of Mr. Joseph Sexton ;2 and as if to manifest the active progress of civihzation, an Assembly House was soon afterwards begun on the South Mall — subsequently called the Assembly Mall.^ Other projects also were now afloat ; though poHtical

    On the occasion of the re-edification of these buildings, the folio-wing inscription was cut in relief on the Key Stone of an arch, through which there is an entry to a lane that leads from the Broad Street to Curry's Lane : —

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 201

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere around here on Little Island, in the year 1750, Surgeon Giles Vandeleur made an unavailing endeavour to establish, at his own expense, a hospital. The attempt failed despite his personal funding. The broader context of hospital efforts in the Limerick area at this period helps explain why his project mattered. Mr. Pery, ever active in charitable deeds, gave a small plot of ground in St. Francis's Abbey to Mr. Charles Smyth and the Rev. Dean Hoare, at a pepper-corn rent, on which a hospital containing forty beds was built. Because that hospital stood outside the walls and in the county, the act which had just come into existence in reference to county hospitals was applied to it. Subscriptions were obtained not only from the city and county of Limerick, but from Tipperary, Clare, and Kerry. At a general meeting of the subscribers it was unanimously resolved that the benefits arising from the Act should be extended to the Limerick county hospital. Vandeleur's effort predates this organised venture. In 1761, a charity sermon was preached at St. Mary's Cathedral, and a play was acted to revive the charity, to which Surgeon Sylvester O'Halloran gave his gratuitous professional services. A Deanery House had been already built off Bow-lane, in 1764. A flourishing paper mill existed under the proprietorship of Mr. Joseph Sexton, and an Assembly House was soon afterwards begun on the South Mall, subsequently called the Assembly Mall.

15. William Cobbett visits Limerick

    Limerick · city · Limerick

    William Cobbett visited Limerick.

    Read the passage

    Cluin Claidech 6 ; founded sixth century, 4. Coaches, notices of, 429, 431, 441, 465. Cobbett visits Limerick, 488. Cobha, battle of, in 1103, 24. Cocket duties (see Customs) disputes, 323, 354. Coflfee houses in 1768, 360; Royal, expels Mr. Arthur

    (1798), 406. Cogan, Milo de, 66. Coign and livery, 96. Coinage, 93, 286, 458, 697. Colgan, 4. Colleen Bawn, Boucicault's, 362, 402, 450 ; Appendix,

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 457

16. Wounded from Clontarf conveyed to Kilmainham camp

    Kilmainham · townland · Dublin · 1014

    On the day after the Battle of Clontarf, the wounded were conveyed to the camp at Kilmainham. Some traditions also hold that Brian and other lords were buried at Kilmainham in the old church known as 'Bully's Acre.'

    Read the passage

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

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

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 16

17. Bishop of Limerick as Lord of Kilmallock manor

    Kilmallock · town · Limerick

    The Bishop of Limerick held the lordship of the manor of Kilmallock, with a Court Leete held twice yearly. Every plantation within the liberties owed chiefry of one penny halfpenny per year, except lands of the Earl of Kildare, Earl of Bath, and other crown-granted lands.

    Read the passage

    The late Bishop of Limbrick, in Right of the Bishopprick, was Lord of the Manner of Kilmallock, with a Court Leete there twice a yeare, every plantation done within the said Liberties, owing to him, as chiefry, one penny halfpenny by the yeare, except the Lands of the Earle of Kildare, Earle of Bath, the Landes of Ffarendona Court I. Ruddery, and other the Landes conveyed and granted by the Crowne of England.

    THOMAS ELIOT, Deputie Surveyor-Gen.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 459

18. Confederate Catholics restore Askeaton abbey

    Askeaton · townland · Limerick · 1648

    In 1648 the confederate Catholics took possession of the Franciscan abbey at Askeaton and began restoring and repairing it.

    Read the passage

    1648. The confederate Catholics took possession of the abbey, and commenced restoring and repairing it.

    Silver chalices, crosses, and coins, have been found near the abbey and castle.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 424

19. Deserted infants' house on Merchants' Quay

    Merchants Quay · street · Limerick · 1799

    A house for the reception of deserted infants was established on Merchants' Quay in 1799, as indicated by a date painted on the figure of a cradle. The institution has long since disappeared.

    Read the passage

    A house for the reception of deserted infants, on Merchants' Quay, was established in 1799, as appeared by a date painted on the figure of a cradle. This institution has long since disappeared.

    was now cooler and would correct his evidence of Saturday. lie was called in and prevaricated still deeper. And when a letter written by himself to Mr. Peppard, was produced, acknowledging he had never seen Mr. Arthur in his life, he answered in confusion to the president, " You know. Sir, that it is but lately that I gave information against Mr. Arthur, and that I did not wish to do it." Between the close of the prosecution on Saturday and the opening of the defence on Monday, Mrs. Arthur and her friends procured some material witnesses from Charleville and other places ; and ten of his witnesses, all respectable inhabitants of Limerick, had engaged a room in the hotel, adjoining to the court-house, to be at hand to answer the call of the court. Tlie Rev. Avril Hill gave in a paper to the president, and the court declared there was a revolutionary Committee sitting in the adjoining tavern :* on which the Judge Advocate wa.s despatched to take them into custody. Centinels were placed in the front and rear of the house, with orders to let none escape till the breaking up of the court. They seized all the peipers and written documents Avhich had been procured for the prisoners, and they were kept by the president Mr. Sheriff Lloyd complained that some other of the prisoner's witnesses were in waiting, and issued orders that all papers and communications relating to the prisoner should be first given into court. All Mr. Arthur's friends were forcibly kept out of court ; and with the utmost ditHculty, some of the first characters in Limerick prevailed on the sheriff to permit Mr. Arthur's father to be present at the trial of his sou. The greatest part of Mr, Arthur's witnesses having been kept out of court, the defence was closed on the same day.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 231

20. Earl of Limerick's return to the city from Rich Hill

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1812

    On 11 October the Earl of Limerick visited the city after a three-year absence, drawn into town from Rich Hill attended by respectable citizens and the guilds of trades with their banners and formalities.

    Read the passage

    October 11th. — The Earl of Limerick visited this city after an absence of three years, and was drawn into town from Rich Hill, attended by a meeting of the most respectable citizens, and the severd guilds of the trades, with their banners and formalities.

    HISTORY or LIMEKICK. 421

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 240

21. Fitzgerald lordship of Decies passes through marriage

    Decies · electoral division · Dublin

    FitzAnthony's lordship of Decies passed to the younger son of an Earl of Desmond and is still possessed by his direct heir, a fair lady who married a Villiers, from which Lord Stuart de Decies descends.

    Read the passage

    Decies and Desmond together, showed them the letters patent, and then took forcible possession of that extensive country. The King's Treasurer refused to receive the rent due to the crown, the King's Justice refused to acknowledge him as owner of these lands ; but FitzThomas eventually succeeded against^them both, was created Earl of Desmond, and left these estates to his posterity. And by it a part of them is still held; for the Knights of Glin and Kerry are Geraldines of the IDesmond Branch ; the great Mitchelstown estate has descended to the Earls of Kingston, as direct heirs to the White Knights, also Geraldines ; and FitzAnthony's lordship of Decies, passing to the younger son of one of the Earls of Desmond, is still possessed by his direct heir, the fair lady in whom the great family of Fitzgerald of the Decies ended, having given her hand and property to a Villiers, from which marriage Lord Stuart de Decies descends.

    • Maurice Began thus continues the history of the king's movements, as we find him translated in the quaint version by Sir George Carew, Lord President of Munster, contained in Harris's Hibernica: —

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 27

22. Henry's meeting at Lismore misrepresented as parliament

    Lismore · town · Waterford · 1171–1172

    A meeting held by Henry at Lismore was misrepresented by later historians as a parliament that communicated English laws to Ireland. The text argues there was no interference with old Irish laws and customs.

    Read the passage

    In the year 1172 was held the celebrated Synod of Cashel, in which various rules were made for the enforcement of discipline and morahty, for there was no doctrinal matter discussed at this much misrepresented meeting, whatever assertions to the contrary may have been made by interested parties. The payment of tythes, which had been previously enjoined at the Synod of Kells, was again enforced, at this Synod, as also the catechising of infants, the rejection of marriages with relations, and the exemption of ecclesiastical property from the exactions of laymen, as well as from the erics or contributions for homicide. In other respects the Irish laws were not interfered with, the people being governed by their own Brehon Laws and their native usages and institutions from the time of Henry the II. to that of Ehzabeth. Matthew Paris, Littleton, Ware, and even O'Connor, have strangely mistaken the nature of another meeting held by Henry at Lismore, which they misrepresent as a parliament that " communicated to Ireland the laws and customs of England." Whereas it appears clearly from the proceedings of the Synod that there was no interference with the old laws and customs. Amongst the territories granted in the county of Limerick to Fitzgerald and his relatives, besides those in Cork and Kerry, were 100,000 acres of land in the barony of Connello, ceded to them by the native family of O'Coimell (from whom Castleconnell and Carrig O'Connell, now Carrigogunnell, received their name) " in consideration," says Lynch, " of lands assigned them in the counties of Kerry and Clare, where branches of that family^ continue to the

    ' Fitzstephen -was also confined in Beg Erin, in Wexford Harbour, about two miles from Wexford.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 26

23. Joseph Gabbett of Highpark, High Sheriff 1736

    Highpark · townland · Limerick · 1736

    Joseph Gabbett of Highpark served as High Sheriff of County Limerick in 1736. He married Sarah, daughter of T. Ormsby of Athlacca.

    Read the passage

    The first member of the Gabbett family settled in Ireland about the year 1620, being great great grandson of Robert Gabbett, of Acton Burnell, to whom an augmentation of arms was granted Tenth Henry VII. (Greene's Heraldry), of Henry VII. Guard. He died at Cashel, 1659. William Gabbett, of Cahirline and Rathjordan, died 1683. He married Alice England, of the Co. of Clare ; his son, Lieutenant John Gabbett, of Rathjordan, one of the Commissioners for raising the revenue of the County of Limerick, 1692, married Mary, daughter and co-heiress of James Woods, and had issue, John of Rathjordan, High Sheriff, 1713, married Elizabeth, daughter of the Rev. Rickard Burgh, of Dromkeene, and died without issue. William Gabbett, of Cahirline, son of William Gabbett and Alice England, was born 1655, married Mary, daughter of William Carpenter, and had — William, married Mary, daughter and heir of Thomas Spires ; 2nd, Anne, daughter of Benjamin Frend ; 3rd, Mary, daughter of William Freeman. By his first wife he had William, married Dorothea, daughter of the Rev. Rickard Burgh, of Dromkeene, and had issue William (H. S. 1785), married Jane, daughter of D. Maunsell, of Ballywilliam, and had issue, William (High Sheriff, 1813), married Jane, daughter of Richard Waller, of Castlewaller, and had issue, William, married Rebecca, daughter of Humphrey Jones, of Mullinabro, and had Richard, now of Cahirline, married daughter of J. Minchiu, of Busherstown. Joseph Gabbett, of Highpark, High Sheriff of Co. Limerick, 1736, married Sarah, daughter of T. Ormsby, of Athlacca, dead.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 460

24. Kilkee bathing village on the Clare coast

    Kilkee · town · Clare

    The picturesque village of Kilkee, romantically situated on the Clare coast, is the favourite bathing-place of Limerick citizens, who repair thither in considerable numbers when the season arrives.

    Read the passage

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

    The last act of parliament passed in reference to Limerick, is that which empowers the Corporation to make an embankment at Corkanree, and to add to the city a certain portion of Corkanree which had been in the county. This act passed the committee of the House of Lords on Thursday, the 4th of May, and received the royal assent soon afterwards. Thus the citizens will be soon provided with a healthful and much-needed park and promenade."

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 309

25. Limerick corporation ploughlands and their tenants

    Limerick · city · Limerick

    A document records the ploughlands held by the mayor and corporation of Limerick, listing specific townlands, tenants, and rents. Holdings include Rebouge, Ballysoddo, Rathbane, Rathun, Castlebank, Kilrush, and Farrengowen, among others, held by families such as Arthure, Creagh, Stritch, Comyn, and White.

    Read the passage

    mayor &c. for 15s. Irish ; Eebouge. fths of a ploughland, in possession of Nicholas Arthure, held from ditto, at ditto rent ; Ballysoddo, |ths of a part and held of John Fox from same at same rent ; Dubgish, Ballymoldown, and Eathmichael, one ploughland, held by Nicholas Arthure from same at twenty shillings rent ; Rathbane Jths of a ploughland in possession of White and ifanning, heirs of Pierce Creagh, for which they pay only twelve shillings and four pence, Irish ; Rathuj'n, held by Nicholas Stritch of Limerick, merchant, containing the 3rd part of two ploughlands, for which he pays rent, Irish ; Crewilally, alias Ballincloughe, ^th of a ploughland held by Christopher Artliure for the rent of 5s. ; Cheapman's land, alias Ardnevedoge, half a ploughland, held by Simon ffanning ; the mayor, &c. were said to be seized of the following ploughlands, also being part of the 40 : viz. Castlebank, 1 ploughland, held by Nicholas Arthure for 20s. Kilrush ^ a ploughland held by Nicholas Comyn or David Comyn, alderman, at lOs. yearly rent — Farrengowen, otherwise Smith's land, 1 ploughland, held by David White,* alderman, at

    * The Whites, the Creaghs, and the Stritches have played a remarkable part in the History of Limerick, Clonmel, and Waterford. Sir David White of Eussellstown was married to Sarah Bourk, daughter of John Bourk, who was called Lord of Coshure ; by his wife Catherine Fitzgerald, daughter to John Fitzgerald Earl of Desmond : they had issue — 1st, Solomon White, son and heir to the said David and Sarah — was married to Margaret Walsh, daughter to David Walsh of Ballintober — had issue as follows ; — 1st, David White, son and heir to the said Solomon, was married to Margaret Brien, daughter to Anion Brien of Comraeragh, and had seven children

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 77

26. Lord Derby withdraws eviction notices on Doon tenants

    Doon · town · Limerick

    Lord Derby withdrew or declined to act on notices to quit served on his tenants at Doon, following the murder of Mr. Crowe. The withdrawal suggests the eviction threat was linked to the killing and was subsequently reversed.

    Read the passage

    Lord Derby withdraws or declines acting on his notice to quit, served on his Doon tenants on account of the murder of Mr. Crowe.

    Jan. 28. — The body of Mr. Hugh Massy O'Grady, of Castlegarde, found floating in the Dead River, County Limerick, near the Railway. Verdict — accidental death.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 300

27. Mitchelstown estate descends to Earls of Kingston

    Mitchelstown · townland · Cork

    The great Mitchelstown estate descended to the Earls of Kingston as direct heirs to the White Knights, who were also Geraldines of the Desmond branch.

    Read the passage

    Decies and Desmond together, showed them the letters patent, and then took forcible possession of that extensive country. The King's Treasurer refused to receive the rent due to the crown, the King's Justice refused to acknowledge him as owner of these lands ; but FitzThomas eventually succeeded against^them both, was created Earl of Desmond, and left these estates to his posterity. And by it a part of them is still held; for the Knights of Glin and Kerry are Geraldines of the IDesmond Branch ; the great Mitchelstown estate has descended to the Earls of Kingston, as direct heirs to the White Knights, also Geraldines ; and FitzAnthony's lordship of Decies, passing to the younger son of one of the Earls of Desmond, is still possessed by his direct heir, the fair lady in whom the great family of Fitzgerald of the Decies ended, having given her hand and property to a Villiers, from which marriage Lord Stuart de Decies descends.

    • Maurice Began thus continues the history of the king's movements, as we find him translated in the quaint version by Sir George Carew, Lord President of Munster, contained in Harris's Hibernica: —

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 27

28. Mungret Abbey plundered and destroyed by Danes, 820

    Mungret · town · Limerick · 820–840

    In 820 the abbey of Mungret was plundered and destroyed by the Danes. The depredations were repeated in 834 when the abbey, together with several other churches in Munster, was burnt and destroyed, and again in 840.

    Read the passage

    A.D. 760. Died the Abbot AiUoll, the son of Creabachain.'' 820. This abbey was plundered and destroyed by the Danes. 834. This year the abbey, together with several other churches in Munster, was burnt and destroyed by the Danes.*

    840. The Danes repeated their depredations.*

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 311

29. Ormond introduces woollen manufactures to Carrick-on-Suir

    Carrick-on-Suir · town · Tipperary

    The Duke of Ormond exerted himself with great success to introduce woollen manufactures into Carrick-on-Suir, where they flourished for a long period and had not totally ceased even by the time of writing.

    Read the passage

    It must be admitted too, that the Duke of Ormond exerted himself with very great success to introduce manufactures, particularly of woollens, into Carrick-on-Suir and Kilkenny, where they flourished for a long period, and where, notwithstanding every impediment, they have not totally ceased to this day.

    ' Thorpe's Catalogue of the Southwell MSS. * Orrery'3 State Letters.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 113

30. Prendergast family estates across Munster

    Mitchelstown · townland · Cork

    The Prendergast family estates extended from Doneraile, by Mitchelstown, to Newcastle near Clonmel, a mountain district whose northern slopes partly belonged to the county of Limerick. The name frequently appears in records of the period.

    Read the passage

    Wearied with this life, but still a warrior even when a monk, Prendergast gave his lands of that name in Pembrokeshire to the Knights of St. John of Jerusalem, and joined that order. Their chief establishment in Ireland was the famous Hospital of Kilmainham ; and of this monastery he was Prior, and died in possession of that dignity in 1205. William, his younger son, was ancestor of the Prendergasts of Mayo, called Mac Maurice after their great ancestor, and who gave their name to the barony of Clanmorris, Claremorris, and other localities in Mayo. Philip, the eldest son, was married to Maude, the daughter of the ill-fated Robert de Quincy, Constable of Leinster, who married Strongbow's daughter by hia first marriage, and was slain in battle a few days later. From him descended the Prendergasts of Enniscorthy, Newcastle, Beauver, and Blitchelstown. The latter was formerly described as in the County of Limerick. William do Prendergast of Kilbyde was maj^or of Limerick in 1318 — See the Plea, No. 83, in the 11th of Edward II. And the name frequently occurs about this time, the family estates extending from Doneraile, by Mitchelstown, to Newcastle, near Clonmel, a mountain district of which the northern slopes still partly belong to the county of Limerick.

    ' It appears from the Irish State Papers tliat even so late as the year 1503, the Kavenagha, the representatives of tlie royal house of Leinster, were paid eighty marks yearlj- by the English Government as rios dhti, or black rent, besides being allowed £40 by the county Wexford ort Account of their descent, or i-ather of their still remaining powers to make themselves dreaded ^vithin the limits of their ancient soveieigntj-.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 28

31. Rockbarton Castle at Askeaton built by O'Gradys

    Askeaton · townland · Limerick · 1496–1520

    The O'Gradys built Rockbarton Castle at Askeaton soon after 1496, as part of their expanding estate holdings in County Limerick.

    Read the passage

    1 A large collection of notes in reference to the O'Grady family is in the possession of Miss Julia O'Grady, Castle Park, near Limerick. They held a territory in the county of Clare, called Kirell-Dongail, extending around Tonigraney. And in later days they constantly held the chief ecclesiastical dignities in the Cathedral of Killaloe. It is stated that the Bradys of Raheen, Co. Clare, and Brady, the first Protestant Bishop of Meath, were of the senior branch of the OGradys, who changed their name when becoming Protestants. The evidence is to be found in a work lately published by Mr. Brady, a son or brother of the Lord Chancellor Brady, containing extracts from the Chapter Books of Cloyne, Ross, Cork, &c. &c. The Kilballyowen branch, of whom a pedigree is in Burke's Landed Gentry, have been settled in Limerick, at Knockany and Kilballyowen, from an early date. Any belonged to the O'Kerwicks ; Thomas de Clare held it in 15 Edw. II. , and the O'Gradys held it about A.D. 1400, building Ballycahane Castle in 1496 (D'Alton), and Rockbarton Castle, at Askeaton, soon after. A portion of the County Limerick estates, however, belonged to the celebrated Pierce Lacy, of Bruff ; Kilballyowen, Kilcullane, and other lands, being then O'Grady property. So we find these lands confirmed to Donough O'Grady in 1611 (Rot. Pat. Hib. 8 Jas. I.), and Pierce Lacy's estate confirmed to Sir Thomas Standish three years later (Rot. Pat. Hib. 11 Jas. I.) Sir Thomas Standish had a large estate, which eventually passed through his daughters ; a small portion to the O'Gradys (Dermod O'Grady having married Faith Standish ; see the will of Sir T. Standish, dated 1635), but the larger part to the Hartstonges, now represented by the Earl of Limerick. The Annals of the Four Masters describe John O'Grady, Archbishop of Tuam, who died in 1371, as the "leading man for wisdom and hospitality in his time." From these Annals we can trace the chieftainship of the senior branch of the O'Gradj-s as follows : — 1268. Donell, chief of his name, died. 1311. Donell, chief of his name, died. 1408. Teige, chief of his name, died. 1485. Nicholas, Abbot of Tomgraney, died. 15 — . ? Donough, son of Nicholas, died.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 38

32. Rossbrien chapel with no traces left

    Rossbrien · townland · Limerick

    The chapel of Fearan-na-guilleagh, now called Ross Brien, had no traces remaining. It formerly belonged to monks of the chapel de Rastro or Ratuird and was attached to the parish priest of Limerick.

    Read the passage

    The chapel of Fearan-na-guilleagh, now called Ross Brien, of which no traces are left. It formerly belonged to some monks of the chapel de Rastro or Ratuird. It belongs to the parish priest (parochiaUs) of Limerick, whose vicarage belongs to the college of vicars. 4 0

    The chapel of Baillione, part of the parish of Feadamuir.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 323

33. Salmon Weir Company limits set by Limerick Council

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1803

    On 13 May 1803, the Limerick Council resolved that every future Mayor could receive one salmon or two peal per week from the Salmon Weir Company, and no more, suggesting prior over-consumption by the city's worthies.

    Read the passage

    Immediately after the detection and defeat of Emmett^s enterprise, the Corporation met on the 4th of March, Joseph Sargent, Esq., Mayor, in the chair, and passed an address to King George III., congratulating his Majesty on the result. On the 13th of May, it Avas resolved in Council "That it is the opinion of this Council that every future Mayor may receive one salmon or two peal per week from the Salmon Weir Company, and no more.''^ It must have been that their Worships trespassed too much on the Weir

    assembling at Crooked wood, in the Co. Westmeath, only 42 miles from Dublin.* Such a stroke if successfully accomplished, might have terminated for ever the English occupation of Ireland.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 237

34. Sligo garrison to benefit from capitulation

    Sligo · town · Sligo · 1691

    The garrison of Sligo that had joined the Irish army was to benefit from the capitulation. Orders were to be sent to bring them to Limerick by the shortest way for transport to France.

    Read the passage

    XIII — Those of the garrison of Sligo that are joined to the Irish army, shall have the benefit of this capitulation ; and orders shall be sent to them that are to convey them up, to bring them hither to Limerick the shortest way.

    XIV-— The Irish may have liberty to transport nine hundred horse, including horses for the officers which shall be transported gratis ; and as for the troopers that stay behind, they shall dispose of themselves as thej' shall think fit, giving up their horses and arms to such persons as the general shall appoint.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 147

35. Smyth family monument at St. Munchin's Church

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1711–1717

    The oldest monument within St. Munchin's Church is a black and white marble memorial raised by Bishop Smyth in memory of his wife Dorothy, who died in 1711. The monument stands at the south side of the Communion Table over the family vault of the Smyths and their successors the Verekers.

    Read the passage

    * The monument, which is raised at the south side of the Communion Table, over the tamiiy vault of the Smyths and their successors the Verekers, is made of fine black and white marble, and supported bv two cherubim. The following is the inscription : —

    " Conditura est hoc monumentum a Thoma Smyth S. T. P. episcopo Limericensi, in piam memoriam nuperse suas uxoris charissimse Dorothse, quaj obut, sexto die Augusti, A.V. 1711, ffitatis 43, cujus reliqiua hie sit* sunt. Fnia erit Ulisses Burgh S. 1. P. non ita prmem Episcopi Ardachadensis, ex Maria Nata Gulielmi Kingsmill armigeri. ^ . „, c *i,

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 314

36. St. Munchin's Church rebuilt in Limerick

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1827

    St. Munchin's Church was rebuilt in 1827 at a cost of £1,460 as a handsome structure with a lofty square tower, embattled and pinnacled. The living was a rectory united from time immemorial to the rectory and vicarage of Killonehan and the rectory of Drehidtarsna.

    Read the passage

    St. Munchin's Church, which has been already partly described, was rebuilt in 1827 at the cost of £1,460, and is a handsome structure, with a lofty square tower, embattled and pinnacled. The living is a rectory, united from time immemorial to the rectory and vicarage of KiUonehan and the rectory of Drehidtarsna, the three parishes constituting the corps of the prebend of St. Munchin in the Cathedral of St. Mary, Limerick, and in the patronage of the Bishop. Of the churches mentioned as existing in Limerick in the will of Martin Thomas Arthur, four have entirely disappeared, namely those of St. Laurence, St. Nicholas, St. Patrick, and St. Michael, notices of which frequently occur in the history. St. Mary's Cathedral has been already fully described. St. Laurence's Church stood on the Cork road, near the site of the present county jail. The parish is an entire rectory, and had been in the gift of the Corporation, who sold the advowson to the trustees of the Blind Asylum.

    St. Nicholas's Church, near the Castle barrack, on the ground afterwards occupied by the old post office, was destroyed during the last siege of 169i. Described as a busy scene of action in 1642.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 393

37. Tombstone discovered at Kilquane churchyard in 1864

    Kilquane · townland · Clare · 1864

    In 1864, during wall-building and improvements at the old historic churchyard of Kilquane, a tombstone that had been concealed for many years underground was turned up, bearing an I.H.S. inscription.

    Read the passage

    4 In Storey's Map of this the Second Siege, he fixes the exact place where the English troops passed the river, and to which tradition has constantly pointed. We have so fully described it in Chapter XXXIII. that it is needless here more particularly to refer to it. The spot where CA|tAi5 t)A SlAbttAise, or Rock of Chains, stood before it was blown up by Captain H. Jackson's servant, Connell, may be seen in the large field on the Clare side of the river, opposite Corbally. Storey's Map describes " fishing weirs" near the spot. These weirs now form the mill-race of Corbally Mills, the property of Messrs. J. N. Russell and Sons. St. Thomas's Island is a short distance to the west. Illainarone is to the east. In 1864, while building a wall around, and making other improvements in the old historic church-yard of Kilquane, another tombstone which deserves notice, and which had been concealed for many years under the earth, was turned up : —

    L

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 143

38. Waterford left in custody of Robert Fitz Bernard

    Waterford · city · Waterford · 1171–1172

    On his departure from Ireland, King Henry II placed the city of Waterford under the custody of Robert Fitz Bernard, while Dublin was entrusted to Hugh de Lacy.

    Read the passage

    " This ill news troubled the Kj^nge beyond all Measure ; and inforced him to hasten his return out of Ireland. The Cittie of Waterford he left in the Custodie of Kobert Fitz Bernard, and Dublyn unto Hugh de Lacy. Kobert Fitz Stephen, Meyler Fitz Henry, and Myles Fitz David, ■were in a sort restrained, and to remain at Dublyn with Lacy. Befor his departur from Dublyn he gave unto Hugh de Lacy the Inheritance of all Meath, to hold of hym at fifty Knights Fees, and unto John de Courcey he gave all Ulster, if he could but conquer it.

    " When the Kynge had taken provisionall Order for the Affaires of Ireland, he went to Weixford, where he imbarqued, and arrived at Portfinan in Wales, halfe a League from St. David's, and in his Companie Miles de Cogan, whom he carryed with him out of Ireland ; and from thence with all possible Expedition he passed through England, and so into Normandie.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 27

39. Abington estates forfeited to the crown

    Abington · townland · Limerick · 1641–1702

    In 1641 the Abington estates were forfeit to the crown. Extant maps record lands in the parish forfeited during the civil wars of 1688 and sold in 1702 by order of the commissioners.

    Read the passage

    1688. There are extant, and of record, maps of such lands in this parish as were forfeited in the civil wars of this period, and sold in 1702 by order of the commissioners.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 419

40. Archbishop Boyle granted Carrigogunell and Newtown

    Carrigogunnel · townland · Limerick · 1666

    Michael Boyle, Lord Archbishop of Dublin and Lord Chancellor, obtained grants of the four ploughlands of Carrigogunell and Newtown in the Barony of Pubblebrien. The grant was inrolled on 2nd July 1666.

    Read the passage

    Michael Boyle, Lord Archbishop of Dublin, and Lord Chancellor, obtained grants of the four ploughlands of Carrigogunell and Newtown, &c. &c. bar. Pobbel Brien. Inrolled 2nd July, 1666. Sir Arthur Ingram, Knt. in same baronv (of Pobbel Brien) a total quantity of 1790a. and 39p. stat.

    14

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 108

41. Aristocratic grants in Kilmallock

    Kilmallock · town · Limerick · 1667

    Thomas Earl of Ossory, Richard Earl of Arran, and Sir Arthur Gore obtained land grants in Kilmallock, as well as immense grants in Tipperary and Clare.

    Read the passage

    Thomas, Earl of Ossory, Richard, Earl of Arran, and Sir Arthur Gore, Knt. got grants in Kilmallock, and immense grants of houses, lands, &c., in Tipperary County, particularly in Fethard, and Clonmell, and in Clare. Total quantity, 3,169a. Ir. 20p. plant. (5,133a. 3r. ISp. stat.) Total rent, £48 2s. 7|^d. Date, 17th December, 19th year. Inrolled 19th Dec. 1667.

    Margaret, Anne, Mary, Susan, and Mabell, daughters of Richard Grice, deceased, of Fanstowne, obtained large grants Co. Limerick, in Kilmallock, &c.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 108

42. Augustinian Canonesses in Limerick

    Limerick · city · Limerick

    Ancient foundations of Augustinian nuns, called the Canonesses of St. Augustine, were established in the city of Limerick, alongside foundations for men of the same order.

    Read the passage

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

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

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 369

43. Battle of Thurles and English defeats

    Thurles · town · Tipperary · 1174

    A battle was fought at Thurles in 1174, during which the English suffered two defeats there. These engagements are recorded among the conflicts of the Norman period in Ireland.

    Read the passage

    Thurles, battle of, in 1174, 43 ; two defeats there of the English, 45.

    Tides high, destruction by in 1775, 365.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 457

44. Bishop's palace and Earl's mansion on Henry Street

    Henry Street · street · Limerick · 1784

    A palace for the Protestant Bishop and a mansion house for the Earl of Limerick were built close to each other by 1784 in an open place called Henry Street, which was speedily built up on either side with desirable views northward and westward.

    Read the passage

    in breadth with those to the north — and equally well circumstanced in every particular. Indeed it already became apparent that the new town, or as it had been called, South Prior's Land, which had been granted, as we have already seen, to an ancestor of the Earl of Limerick, would, in the course of a few years, supplant the old, and that the seat of trade and commerce, as well as of fashion and wealth, would be changed to the one, to the detriment, and ultimate decay, if not ruin, of the other and the more historic town. To name the streets of Newtown Pery w^as an object which, was soon accomplished.^ A palace for the Protestant Bishop, and a mansion house for the Earl of Limerick, were built close to each other, as early as 1784, in an o]^)eu place, called Henry-street, which was speedily built on at either side, and which enjoyed a desirable situation parallel to the river, with noble views northw^ard and w^estward.^

    But we anticipate events : in 1780, Lady Ilartstonge having resolved to bring fever, which now prevailed, under one roof, laid the ground work of one of the most useful charities of w^hich the city of Limerick has had to boast viz., the Eever Hospital, by converting a small house which had been a guardhouse to the citadel of St. John, into a temporary hospital. An association was immediately formed — subscriptions poured in; the famihes of Hartstonge and Pery gave large sums ; and in 1781, an act of Parliament was passed in sustainment of this invaluable institution. ^ In the midst of the turmoil and excitement of the times, the Dominican Friars, whose order had been in the city for many centuries — indeed since the days of St. Dominic,

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 207

45. Bishop William Creagh receives lands of Donoughmore

    Donaghmore · townland · Cork

    A memorandum of Bishop William Creagh of Limerick, recorded in the Black Book, notes that he received the lands of Donoughmore, which were not in the possession of his predecessor. This entry appears alongside the undated grant of Mungaret.

    Read the passage

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

    39

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 320

46. Brian built a church at Inis Cealtra

    near Inishcaltra or Holy Island · townland · Clare

    Brian Boru built a church at Inniskeltra (Inis Cealtra), one of several places of strength he erected or improved near Kincora, his seat of power, in the years before the Battle of Clontarf.

    Read the passage

    * The appearance of the fort of Kiucora at this day indicates clearly that it was fortified, as its Danish name (Worsaee, quoting the Danish Sagas) Kincoraborg would also show. Keating, indeed, gives a pretty lengthened list of places of strength erected or improved by Brian, besides Kincora, within a few miles of which he repaired the round tower of Tomgranej', built a church at Inniskeltra, and erected another at Killaloe. Amongst other places we find Cahir, Cashel, Koscrea in Tipperary, and in the county of Limerick, Lough Gur, Bruree, Duntryleague and Knockany.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 16

47. Brian erected a church at Killaloe

    Killaloe · town · Clare

    Brian Boru erected a church at Killaloe, one of several places of strength he built or improved near Kincora, his fortified seat, in the period before the Battle of Clontarf.

    Read the passage

    * The appearance of the fort of Kiucora at this day indicates clearly that it was fortified, as its Danish name (Worsaee, quoting the Danish Sagas) Kincoraborg would also show. Keating, indeed, gives a pretty lengthened list of places of strength erected or improved by Brian, besides Kincora, within a few miles of which he repaired the round tower of Tomgranej', built a church at Inniskeltra, and erected another at Killaloe. Amongst other places we find Cahir, Cashel, Koscrea in Tipperary, and in the county of Limerick, Lough Gur, Bruree, Duntryleague and Knockany.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 16

48. Brian repaired the round tower of Tomgraney

    near Tomgraney · population centre · Clare

    Brian Boru repaired the round tower of Tomgraney, one of several ecclesiastical and defensive structures he erected or improved within a few miles of Kincora, his seat of power.

    Read the passage

    * The appearance of the fort of Kiucora at this day indicates clearly that it was fortified, as its Danish name (Worsaee, quoting the Danish Sagas) Kincoraborg would also show. Keating, indeed, gives a pretty lengthened list of places of strength erected or improved by Brian, besides Kincora, within a few miles of which he repaired the round tower of Tomgranej', built a church at Inniskeltra, and erected another at Killaloe. Amongst other places we find Cahir, Cashel, Koscrea in Tipperary, and in the county of Limerick, Lough Gur, Bruree, Duntryleague and Knockany.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 16

49. Capuchin Church established in Irishtown 1688

    Irishtown · townland · Limerick · 1688

    A Capuchin Church was established in Irishtown in 1688 during the period of Catholic resurgence under James II.

    Read the passage

    Capuchin Church, Irishtown (1688), 211.

    Carew, Sir George, president of Munster, 38; eU» counters Irish and Spanish forces (1601), 129.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 457

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere around here, a Capuchin church was established in 1688. That is what the record gives us. The year sits in the reign of James the Second, a time of Catholic resurgence, and the Capuchins set up a church here in Irishtown. The source tells us no more than that.

50. Castlehaven takes Castle of Liscarroll

    Liscarroll · town · Cork · 1645

    As part of his 1645 campaign, Confederate General Castlehaven took possession of the Castle of Liscarroll, among other Munster strongholds.

    Read the passage

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

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 88

51. Chapter room passage opened under eastern window

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1809

    In October 1809 a passage to the cathedral's chapter room was opened beneath the eastern window, creating a direct communication with the main street. This improved access to the administrative part of the cathedral complex.

    Read the passage

    In October, 1809, the passage to the chapter room of the cathedral was opened under the eastern window, communicating with the main street.

    » Cotemporary MS. The Quay occupied tlie site of the present city and county court huses.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 345

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Limerick, there is a detail from October 1809 worth noting. A passage to the chapter room of the cathedral was opened under the eastern window, communicating with the main street. That gave direct access to the administrative part of the cathedral from the city.

52. Cholera outbreak reported in Limerick city

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1854

    On August 5th, 1854, Dr. Geary reported that a great number of cases of cholera had appeared of late in Limerick city.

    Read the passage

    1354. — August 5th. — Dr. Geary reported that a great numberof cases of cholera had appeared of late in the city.

    September 2t5th.— Death of one of the city representatives, Robert Potter, Esq. The funeral, procession to Mount St. Laurence Cemetery was attended by the Corporation and other public bodies.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 292

53. Corcomroe and Castle of Dumhach granted to Teige O'Brien

    Corcomroe · barony · Clare · 1585

    The commissioners decreed that Teige O'Brien should have the rents and court of Corcomroe and the Castle of Dumhach, succeeding his father Connor O'Brien, to whom it had been granted from the Lordship of Thomond by the Earl of Thomond.

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    " The governor of the province of Connaught with a number of other men of distinction, and of the council of Dublin, went to the province of Connaught, to hold in the first place a session in the monastery of Ennis, in the comity of Clare. Here they enacted universal ordinances, namely : — that ten shillings should be paid to the queen for every quarter of land in the country, as well ecclesiastical as lay lands, except the liberties which they themselves consented to grant to the gentlemen of the country ; and that over and above the queen^s rent, five shillings should be paid to the Lord of Thomond for every quarter of land free and unfree,^ in the whole country except the liberties and chm'ch lands. They took from the Earl of Thomond the district of Kcuel-Fearmaie [_" barony of Inchiquin,''^] which had been heretofore under tribute to his ancestors, and gave the Lordship of it to the Baron of Inchiquin, Morrough the son of Murrough, son of Dermot O'Brien. It was also ordained and decreed that Tmiough the son of Donnell, son of Connor O'Brien, should have the rents and court of Corcomroe, the Castle of Dumhach, in succession to his father, to whom it had first been given out of the Lordship of Thomond, by the Earl of Thomond, namely Connor the son of Donough O'Brien. They deprived of title and tribute, every ^head

    ' Cox, Hib. Angl. See these indentures in Hardiman's edition of O'Flaherty's Description of Jar Connaught, pp. 309-362.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 67

54. Corporation of Limerick regulated, 1222

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1222

    In 1222 regulations were made concerning the Corporation of Limerick, which was later recognised by Act of Parliament as a Corporation.

    Read the passage

    took care to provide it with chaplains. These succeeded each other, as removal or other causes created a vacancy in the office ; and on one occasion we hnd Geoffrey de Mareys, Lord Justiciary of Ireland, on the part of his royal master, making a presentation to the chaplaincy of the King^s Castle, of Thomas in the place of Andrew, who had either died, or been placed in some other position.^ The church lands were extensive, the constant dealings with them, the employment they gave the Courts in Dublin, as well as in Limerick, are shown in the records that have come down to us, and of which the Black Book contains a considerable number. In 1£17 a mint was established in Limerick. ^ In 1222 regulations were made concerning the Corporation, which has been recognised by Act of ParHament as a Corpo-

    James Earl of Desmond was made constable for life by Patent 23rd August 1423 — with leave to execute the Office by Deputy — and inasmuch as " the ancient fees for the custody of the Castle were for the most part annihilated, and the Castle become so ruinous, that the greater part of it was fallen to the ground," he was given £10 for the repair of the Castle, as well as forty marks out of the profits of the Lexwer (Laxweir), while he should occupy the officetwenty marks more, out of the profits of these weirs, were granted to him for five years in 1424.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 35

55. Croom Abbey founded by O'Brien king

    Croom · town · Limerick

    An O'Brien king founded an abbey at Croom, listed among the monastic endowments of the O'Brien dynasty in the index.

    Read the passage

    O'Brien, King of Limerick, 144 ; grant to Bishop of Limerick, 540; Donald, King of Cashcl, founds nuimery, 646; notice of, 647; Donald Carbrac foands monastery at Galbally, 653 ; King founds Croom abbey, 7i9.

    O'Hrieiis ot Munster (see 7Jne?i.). 4; Murrogh, son of Brian Borhoime, 15, i.^ ; Mortogh, King of 1 homond and Ireland, 22 ; Turlogh defeated by King Roderick, 27 ; of Tliomond, war against Roderick O'Connor, 36 ; married, 39 ; notices of, wars of, disputes of, conventions ot, etc.. etc., 43, 44, 46, 61, GS, 69, 70, 71, 72, 75, 77, 83, 94, 96; of Thomond, successors (1399), 64; kingdom of Tliomond ended, 74; described by Pany in 1535, 77 ; Morrogh, the first Earl (1543), 69, 96; dies in 1-551, 93; succession disputed (1552), 94, 9G ; revolt of O'Briens (temp. Mary), 95 ; fealty of Connor O'Brien, ibid. ; Teige, prisoner to Limerick, etc., 97 ; uncle of Earl Thomond hanged at Galway, 109; Teige, death of in 1582, 1('9; founder of Ballycorrick family, 109; Donogh, joined De Burgii in rebellion, 109; his fate, ibid. ; ancestor of Lord Inchiquin, ibid. ; Brian Duv, of Carigogunel, surrenders estate, 114 ; re-grant (1584), 115; Donogh Beg delivered up to English, and his fate (1584), 114; surrender of lands and re-grants, 116; Teige, his pUiiid rs ill Clare, and fate, 127; Donat, Lord ot Ihumund (1611), 136; his death in 1624, 142;

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 457

56. Death of Bishop Young of Limerick

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1813

    The Right Rev. Dr. Young, Bishop of Limerick, died on 23 September 1813, mourned by every class and party. The Right Rev. Dr. Charles Tuohy, who had been dean of the diocese, was elected vicar capitular on 29 September.

    Read the passage

    The death of the Right Rev. Dr. Young occurred this year on the 23rd of September, mourned by every class and party. We shall speak of the revered Prelate^s life and services in another part of our history. The Right Rev. Dr. Charles Tuohy, who had been dean of the diocese, was elected vicar capitular on the 29th of the same month.

    The fight between the Independents and the Corporation was brought to an issue at Clare assizes before Baron Smith iu 1814, when on the 11th of March, a verdict was given m favour of the Independents, by which they asserted their chartered rights to the franchise and freedom of the city, by birth, by servitude, and by marriage. Before this, no person whatever had been admitted to freedom, no matter their rights, who were not of the Smyth and

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 246

57. Death of John O'Brien, former MP for Limerick

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1865

    John O'Brien, who had served as MP for Limerick city for many years and was a native of the city, died in February 1865. He had represented the city with honour and credit.

    Read the passage

    ¥'e\)mary (1865).— Death of John O'Brien, Esq., late M.P. for many years for the city of which he was a native, and which he represented with honour to himself and credit to the city.

    Electric Telegraph Company completed their arrangements for communication with Limerick.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 294

58. Dilapidated chancel of Kilfinane church

    Kilfinane · town · Limerick · 1714

    Around 1714, attention was called to the extremely dilapidated state of the chancel of Kilfinane. Lord Orrery, who held considerable landed property in County Limerick, wrote to the Bishop ordering his proportion towards repairing the chancel.

    Read the passage

    Diverging for a moment from these matters, it may be remarked that Lord Orrery, having had considerable landed property in the County of Limerick, had also much to do with tithes, &c., and a fair share of correspondence with the Bishop. Several of the Protestant Churches at this period were falling, or had fallen into ruins, and attention having been called to the extremely dilapidated state of the Chancel of Kilfinane, Lord Orrery wrote to the Bishop in these terms : —

    " London, Feby. 2nd, 1714. My Sir,

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 176

59. Dr. de Burgo's death in Tuam

    Tuam · town · Galway · 1667

    Dr. de Burgo died in Tuam on Holy Thursday, 1667. Father Guin, who was said to hold power over the Archbishop, celebrated Mass daily in his chamber before his death and remained constantly by his bedside.

    Read the passage

    Dr. de Burgo, of a junior branch of Clanrickard, was born at Clontuskert, was educated six or seven years at the Irish Jesuit College of Lisbon, sustained theses at Evora and Salamanca against all comers, and was dubbed Doctor of Divinity and of Civil and Canon Law. He was an enthusiastic admirer of the Jesuits, and advanced them money to maintain a college in Gal way. He returned from exile in 1663, "to sleep", as he said, " in his native soil". He died in Tuam; on Holy Thursday, 1667, and Father Guin, *' in whose power he was", celebrated Mass every day in his Grace's chamber for some time before his deatli ; he remained constantly by his bedside, the minister of his comforts, and the witness of his virtues and resignation.'

    The Father Procurator of the Limerick College, S. J., was Father Nicholas Punch, a man of singular amiability and humility, forty-seven years of age, and nineteen in the society. The Professor of Rhetoric was Father James Forde, a very good and learned man. In 1656, he chose, in the middle of a vast bog, a spot harder than the rest, and built a hut on it. Thither a large number of youths soon flocked, erected little huts all round, learned literature and virtue from the good father, and imitated him in enduring, not merely with fortitude, but also with joy, all the inconveniences of their position.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 381

60. Edward I grants annual pension to Franciscan Friars of Limerick

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1293–1356

    In 1293, King Edward I granted an annual pension of 35 marks to the Franciscan Friars of Limerick, Dublin, Waterford, Cork, and Drogheda. Liberates were also granted to the Franciscans in 1356.

    Read the passage

    Luke Wadding, quoted in the Hihernia Domviicana, states the Franciscans had a monastery dedicated to St. Dominic in Limerick, that it was founded in the thirteenth century by William (Fion, i.e. handsome) de Burgo, whose wife was Ania, daughter of Donald O'Brien, king of Limerick, and that said William (Fion) de Burgo was buried there in the year 1287. Thomas de Clare, of the noble family of the Earls of Gloucester, who died on the 2nd of September, a.d. 1287, was interred in the abbey also, as was his son Richard in the year 1318, who was slain, together with several others, on the Feast of St. Gordian, the 1st of May, by O'Brien and M'Carthy. Richard, we are told, was inhumanly torn to pieces. In the year 1293, King Edward I. granted to the Franciscan Friars of Limerick, Dubhn, Waterford, Cork, and Drogheda, an annual pension of 35 marks.

    In 1356, liberates were granted to the Franciscans.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 376