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. Protestant grocers beaten marching through Limerick streets, 1669

   Limerick · city · Limerick · 1669

   On May Day 1669, Protestant merchants of the Grocers' Company attempted to march through the streets of Limerick with officers and colours, seeking to impose quarterage on Catholic merchants. They were violently beaten when they tried to take the right hand over other trades.

   Read the passage

   J 669 On May day, some Protestants of the Company of Grocers, would fain bring the Cathohc merchants under quarterage, as other trades practised, and, therefore, would°form themselves into a company, and began to march through the streets with their officers and colours, as others did ; but as they imagined that all other trades should give way to them, they attempted to take the right hand, but they were terribly banged and beaten, which oufht to deter them from the like for the future. — White's MSS. °

   John, Lord Roberts of Truro, Lord Lieutenant of Ireland, after reviewing the troops at the Curragh of Kildare, on the 18th of September, came to Limerick, but in no great pomp, and lay at the bishop's for two nights. — Ibid,

   Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 408

   As the companion tells it

   As you pass through Limerick, you are in a city where, on May Day in 1669, some Protestants of the Company of Grocers tried to bring the Catholic merchants under quarterage, as other trades practised. They formed themselves into a company and began to march through the streets with their officers and colours, as others did. They imagined that all other trades should give way to them, and attempted to take the right hand. But they were terribly banged and beaten, which, the record says, ought to deter them from the like for the future. That September, John, Lord Roberts of Truro, the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland, came to Limerick after reviewing troops at the Curragh of Kildare. He came in no great pomp and lay at the bishop's for two nights.

2. 1798 atrocities and famine in Limerick

   Limerick · city · Limerick · 1798

   The events of 1798 in Limerick were marked by excesses committed under Sheriffs Lloyd and Webb, with accusation equating condemnation. Trade and agriculture were neglected, famine and famine prices prevailed, dwellings were fired by yeomanry and men of rank, and the lash and gibbet were in constant use.

   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

   Limerick city, and the road passing through it, carries a memory from 1798 that old men once spoke of with horror. In that year 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. Trade and agriculture were neglected. Famine and famine prices prevailed. At Kilrush in County Clare, oats rose to 2 shillings per stone. The Government had everything its own way, and each succeeding day gave strength and power to its minions. The lash and the gibbet were in constant requisition, and 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 infuriated 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, destroying by that measure the independence of a country which had given birth to both of them. Limerick lost one representative, and the boroughs of Askeaton and Kilmallock were disfranchised. There is also a fragment of a court martial record. Colonel Cockell told a man that the only charge against him came from someone who had never seen him and did not know him. Patrick Arthur asked whether the assistance of counsel would be allowed if his son were tried in Limerick. No, answered Colonel Cockell, that is not customary.

3. 29th Regiment quartered in Limerick with four-in-hand coach

   Limerick · city · Limerick · 1815

   The 29th Regiment was quartered in Limerick in 1815, parading boys and girls to church each Sunday. Captain Bridges was noted as a wealthy man who drove the first four-in-hand coach seen in Limerick.

   Read the passage

   In this year the 29th Regiment quartered here ; they paraded to church every Sunday twenty boys and twenty girls. Captain Bridges was remarkable in the Regiment as a very wealthy man ; he drove a bang-up coach and four-in-hand, the first seen in Limerick — he always drove, and was accompanied by several of his brother officers seated on the roof, with one or more servants in the hinder seat, blowing horns.

   October 3rd. — Ten men tried in Kathkeale, under the Insurrection Act, and sentenced to seven years' transportation ; and on the 4th, three more met a similar fate.

   Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 252

   As the companion tells it

   As you pass through Limerick, you are on streets where the 29th Regiment was quartered in 1815. Every Sunday they paraded twenty boys and twenty girls to church. Captain Bridges stood out in the regiment as a very wealthy man. He drove the first four-in-hand coach seen in Limerick, his brother officers seated on the roof, servants in the hinder seat blowing horns. That same October, ten men were tried in Rathkeale under the Insurrection Act and sentenced to seven years transportation, and three more met the same fate the following day.

4. Adare Castle besieged and garrison put to sword

   Adare · townland · Limerick · 1581

   In 1581 Adare Castle was besieged and its garrison put to the sword by the Earls of Desmond and Kerry. The castle was shortly afterwards retaken and the confederate earls defeated with great slaughter by English forces under Colonel Zouch.

   Read the passage

   1581. Castle again besieged, and garrison put to the sword by the Earls of Desmond and Kerry. Castle shortly afterwards retaken, and confederate earls defeated with great slaughter by the English forces under Colonel Zouch, who arrived somewhat tardily from Cork.

   1600. Castle besieged again, garrison for many days without food, and obliged to cut a subterraneous passage to the bed of the river.

   Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 417

5. Anti-clergy proclamation ridiculed in Drogheda

   Drogheda · town · Louth · 1634

   A government proclamation issued against the regular clergy was read in Drogheda by a drunken soldier in a ridiculous manner, causing great amusement among inhabitants and being widely despised by Catholic clergy.

   Read the passage

   The proclamation which was in this year issued against the regular clergy, was every where evaded and turned into ridicule. It was read in Drogheda by a drunlcen soldier in such a ridiculous manner, that it created great amusement amongst the inhabitants, and was so despised by the Cathohc clerg}', that they nevertheless exercised full jurisdiction, and not only proceeded to build abbeys and monasteries, but " had the confidence"^ as Cox expresses it, "to erect a university in Dublin, in the face of the government, which it seems thought itself hmited in this matter by instructions from England.'" Concessions and ordinances, which were made in the Eoman Chapter of the Dominicans were issued, appointing, among other important matters, that Five Universities should be erected in Ireland, viz. at Dublin, at Limerick, at Cash el, A.thenry, and Colerain.^

   It is by no means indicative of the progress of toleration, to find the same government refusing even a charter to a similar institution at this very day in Dublin, nor, says the same writer, was the beauty of the Protestant church at this time sullied by its avowed enemies only. Things sacred were exposed to sale in a most scandalous manner ; parsonages and episcopal sees were alienated, and the churches were generally out of repair.

   Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 79

   As the companion tells it

   As you come through Drogheda, this is a town with a story from 1634. That year, the government issued a proclamation against the regular clergy, and it was everywhere evaded and turned into ridicule. Here in Drogheda, it was read by a drunken soldier in such a ridiculous manner that it created great amusement among the inhabitants. The Catholic clergy despised it so thoroughly that they carried on regardless, exercising full jurisdiction, building abbeys and monasteries. As Cox puts it, they had "the confidence" to erect a university in Dublin, in the face of the government, which it seems felt itself limited in this matter by instructions from England. The Roman Chapter of the Dominicans issued concessions and ordinances, appointing among other matters that five universities should be erected in Ireland, at Dublin, Limerick, Cashel, Athenry, and Coleraine. Yet the same government refused even a charter to a similar institution in Dublin at this very time. And the Protestant church was not sullied by its avowed enemies only. Things sacred were exposed to sale in a scandalous manner. Parsonages and episcopal sees were alienated, and the churches were generally out of repair.

6. Baldearg O'Donnell arrives at Kinsale from Spain

   Kinsale · town · Cork · 1690

   Baldearg O'Donnell, having escaped from Spain contrary to the will of Austria, arrived at Kinsale via a circuitous route through Turkey, just as King James had quitted Ireland for France. Thousands of Irish soldiery thronged around him upon his arrival.

   Read the passage

   And here we find a character introduced on the stage who had not made his appearance previously — no less a personage than the celebrated Baldearg O^Donnell, who had made his escape from Spain, contrary to the will of Austria, then in league with England. He having come by a circuitous route by which he was enabled to visit Turkey, and arriving at Kinsale just as James had quitted Ireland for France, thousands of the Irish soldiery thronged around him ; Bishops and Priests hailed his advent with ten thousand welcomes ; he made a pompous entrance into Limerick, where his appearance created a tremendous sensation in favor of the cause among the defenders of the city. There were many prophecies afloat that an " O^DomieU. with a red mark was to be the Liberator of his country — that he was to gain a battle under the walls of Limerick.''^ Here then was Baldearg O^Donnell face to face with the enemy. •

   On the remarkable day when the disastrous news reached William's camp, an expedition was sent against Castleconnell, that famous old fortress of the powerful De Burgos, which had sustained the national cause through many vicissitudes. The besieged submitted, and to the number of 128 were brought prisoners to William's camp. Castleconnell was retained in the hands of William till the siege was raised, and then it was blown up.^

   Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 133

   As the companion tells it

   As you pass through Kinsale, this is where Baldearg O'Donnell arrived in 1690, after escaping from Spain contrary to the will of Austria, then in league with England. He had come by a circuitous route that took him through Turkey. He reached Kinsale just as King James had quitted Ireland for France. Thousands of Irish soldiery thronged around him. Bishops and priests hailed his arrival. There were prophecies afloat that an O'Donnell with a red mark was to be the liberator of his country, that he was to gain a battle under the walls of Limerick. He made a pompous entrance into Limerick, where his appearance created a tremendous sensation in favour of the cause among the defenders of the city. There he was, face to face with the enemy. On the remarkable day when the disastrous news reached William's camp, an expedition was sent against Castleconnell, the famous old fortress of the De Burgos. The besieged submitted, and 128 were brought prisoners to William's camp. Castleconnell was held by William till the siege was raised, and then it was blown up.

7. Battle at Six Mile Bridge during Bunratty siege

   Six-mile-bridge · town · Clare · 1646

   During the siege of Bunratty, a general attack was made on the Confederate camp at Six Mile Bridge, resulting in the overthrow of the camp. Confederate soldiers were pursued two miles and 250 bags of oatmeal and other provisions were captured by the Parliamentarians, whose stores were nearly exhausted.

   Read the passage

   ' The capture of Bunrattj^ Castle was an object of the most critical importance to the Confederates. The Earl of Thomond,* who before lived peaceably in this castle, admitted into it at this time, a garrison of 800 foot and 60 cavalry, most of them reformed officers, under the command of Lieut-Colonel MacAdam, "a stout officer," who began at once to raise works to strengthen the castle, which, owing to the marshes about it, might be impregnably fortified. Bunratty, wliich was strong, was deemed before the invention of artillerj' capable of defying all attempts to take it. It was now placed in a state of complete defence^ and a mount was raised whereon were four pieces of cannon. A small castle, and behind this the church, Avhich is now a ruin, stood at a little distance from this platform, all within a deep trench, well flanked, in which the Parliamentarians meant to draw water from the river, which ran to the east of the castle. Lord Muskerry advanced to encamp in the parish of Bunrattj', having taken a castle upon quarter which stood at the entrance into the park, wherein the enemj' had left some musqueteers. The finest deer in Ireland roamed through the park ; and the Irish soldiers took good care to supply themselves with plenty of venison ; the wood, too, was preserved from destruction because the dry brush afforded better firing, and was easier gathered. Lieut.-General Purcell, Major-General Stephenson, and Colonel Purcell, all veteran otKcers who had served in the German wars, were principally instructed with the conduct of this action. {Billing?) After some skirmishing, they became masters of all the ground without the broad, deep trench on the west side of the castle, and sat down at such a distance that the brow of the bank kept Muskerry's camp from being annoyed from the castle or the mount. Faggots and baskets were supplied hj the under wood. The garrison in the castle was brought by a portion of the Parliamentarian fleet on the Irish coast, under the command of Sir "William Penn, which had arrived in the Shannon on the 11th of March, 16-16, and which in its course up the river had committed several atrocities on the unprotected inhabitants ; it anchored between six and seven o'clock on the same evening off Bunratty, and sent a trumpetter to the Earl of Thomond, with a letter from Sir William Penn and Lieut.-Colonel MacAdam, — the Earl received it kindly, embracing the motion, and jjromising to join them. {Memorials of Sir William Penn). After negociations, which were carried on the next day by Sir Teague M'Mahon — the Earl not appearing in person — they landed 700 men on an island close to Bunratty ; Captain Huntly, one of the Earl's retinue, waiting on them, invited them to confer with the Karl, with whom they dined, and found him well disposed towards the Parliament ; the soldiers then marched over, and quartered in Bunratty that night. The Earl was evidently anxious to play off the Admiral and his party if he could ; but he committed himself irretrievably to them. {Memorials of Sir William Penn). The ship, which the pilot told them might go up within two or three cable's length of Bunratty, at five fathoms at low water, grounded on a ledge of rocks six feet high at the north side of the river, and was not got off without difficulty, and sustaining severe injury. The seige was carried on with skill and bravery on both sides ; the beseiged, who were supplied with men from the ships, sallied out often, but owing to the proximity of the hill, and other causes, their sallies did no harm. In one of them, however, on the 1st of April, Captain Magrath, commander-in-chief of the Irish horse, was wounded ; a route followed, in which a large number of the Confederate army were taken prisoners by the Parliamentarians. In the afternoon a general attack was made on the Confederate camp at Six Mile Bridge, where a hot engagement ensued, which terminated in the overthrow of the Confederate camp, the soldiers of which were pursued two miles, and 250 bags of oatmeal, and other provisions which were found in the camp, were taken by the Parliamentarians, whose stores were well nigh exhausted. Captain Magrath and a lieutenant, both of whom had died of their wounds, were honorably buried with three vollies of small shot. Previously to this Lord Muskerry had made every exertion to distract the attention of the

   Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 89

8. Bishop Cornelius O'Neill of Limerick and the Desmond War

   Limerick · city · Limerick · 1581–1597

   Cornelius O'Neill was appointed Catholic Bishop of Limerick in 1581 and spent years in Spain soliciting aid for Irish chieftains during the Desmond War. Two letters dated Madrid, 16 November 1584, preserved in the Vatican archives, attest to his efforts on behalf of Maurice Fitzgerald, the last Geraldine leader, urging the Pope to help remove English rule from Ireland.

   Read the passage

   The only written particulars concerning his episcopate that the author of the article referred to in a preceding note was able to obtain, were two letters addressed by him to Rome, where they are preserved in the Vatican archives, during the Desmond War, at which period the Bishop of Limerick appears to have been busily engaged in the Spanish court, soliciting aid for the Irish chieftains. Both are dated Madrid, 16th November, 1584. In tlie first, he recommends to his correspondent William Nugent, Baron of Scryne, then at Rome after many sufferings for his religion, for which he had abandoned all, " the better to obey the word of the Gospel". In the second, written at tlie request of Maurice Fitzgerald, "the last remaining leader of the array of the Geraldines", and nephew of the celebrated Earl of Desmond, the writer corroborates his testimonials, and begs his correspondent, whom he addresses as " Your Holiness", to aid his cause, and to write to the King of Spain in his favour, in order to remove by his assistance " the yoke of the English off the necks of the Irish".

   (1) See an interesting article headed " Tlie See of Limerick", published in the Irith Ecclesiastical Record for October, 1865, written by the Rev. Dr. Moran, of the Irish College, Rome, and already referred to.

   Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 457

   As the companion tells it

   As you pass through Limerick, this is the city of Bishop Cornelius O'Neill, appointed Catholic Bishop here in 1581. During the Desmond War he spent years at the Spanish court in Madrid, soliciting aid for the Irish chieftains. Two of his letters survive in the Vatican archives, both dated Madrid, the 16th of November, 1584. In the first he recommends William Nugent, Baron of Scryne, a man then at Rome after many sufferings for his religion, for which he had abandoned all, in his own words, to better obey the word of the Gospel. The second letter was written at the request of Maurice Fitzgerald, described as the last remaining leader of the array of the Geraldines, and nephew of the celebrated Earl of Desmond. In it the Bishop corroborates Fitzgerald's testimonials and begs his correspondent, addressed as Your Holiness, to aid his cause and to write to the King of Spain in his favour, in order to remove, as he put it, the yoke of the English off the necks of the Irish.

9. British retreat continued to Athlone

   Athlone · town · Westmeath · 1798

   Fleeing British troops from the Castlebar defeat continued their retreat toward Athlone, with an officer of Carbineers and sixty men arriving there at one o'clock on Tuesday the 29th, having marched 63 miles in 27 hours. The Carbineers were shortly afterwards disbanded.

   Read the passage

   But it is important, in duly estimating the gallant conduct of the Limerick regiment at Colooney, to bear in remembrance the bad example shown them by a vastly superior force, consisting in a great measure of regular troops, fully armed and well supplied with every requisite. So complete was the defeat at Castlebar, that " although no attempt to follow them was made, a panic seemed still to operate on the troops, who retreated so quickly, as to reach the town of Tuam, thirty mUes from the scene of action, on the night of the same day, and renewing their march they retired still further towards Athlone, where an officer of Carbineers with sixty of his men arrived at one o'clock on Tuesday, the 29th, having performed a march of G3 miles, the distance between Athlone and Castlebar, in twenty-seven hours."* Hence the name, "the races of Castlebar" — The Carbineers were shortly afterwards disbanded. The Artillery taken in this disgraceful defeat consisted of 14 pieces, of which four were curricle guns. " It is almost impossible, "says Maxwell," to conceive anything more disgraceful and unaccountable than the defeat of the Royalist army at Castlebar. The spirit of the troops was excellent, and with a superior Cavalry and Artillery — the latter particularly well served — the contest should not have lasted ten minutes. But Humbert's estimate of the British commanding officers will give a key to the secret of their defeat — " I met," he said, when asked to give up his sword to the Marquis of Cornwallis, " I met many generals in Ireland, but the only soldier among them was Colonel Vereker."f

   An authentic letter was received from Dublin, mentioning that the General-in-Chief of the French Army (Humbert) made public mention of the gallantry of the City Limerick Militia Regiment.

   Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 237

   As the companion tells it

   Coming up now, Athlone in Westmeath. In 1798 this is where the British retreat from Castlebar finally brought some of the fleeing troops. The defeat at Castlebar was so complete that no pursuit was even needed. A panic kept the troops moving. They reached Tuam, thirty miles from the action, on the night of the same day. Then they renewed their march and retired still further towards Athlone. An officer of the Carbineers with sixty of his men arrived here at one o'clock on Tuesday the 29th, having covered 63 miles, the distance between Athlone and Castlebar, in 27 hours. That is how it earned the name the races of Castlebar. The Carbineers were shortly afterwards disbanded. The artillery taken in the defeat consisted of 14 pieces, four of them curricle guns. Maxwell called it almost impossible to conceive anything more disgraceful and unaccountable, given the spirit of the troops was excellent and they had superior cavalry and artillery, the latter particularly well served. When Humbert, the French general, was asked to give up his sword to the Marquis of Cornwallis, he said, "I met many generals in Ireland, but the only soldier among them was Colonel Vereker." An authentic letter from Dublin later mentioned that Humbert made public mention of the gallantry of the City of Limerick Militia Regiment.

10. Canal mills converted to brewery by Walker & Co.

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1816

    Mills on the north bank of the canal built by Messrs. Welsh and Uzuld, having become almost a ruin, were fitted up as a brewery by Messrs. Walker and Co. of Cork at an expense of £5,000. It became one of the first establishments of the kind in Munster but did not prosper long.

    Read the passage

    The mills on the north bank of the canal, which were buUt by Messrs. Welsh and Uzuld, having become almost a ruin, were fitted up as a brewery by Messrs. Walker and Co. of Cork, at an expense of £E5,000. This now became one of the first establishments of the kind in Munster ; but it did not prosper for any length of time.

    The Corporation, meanwhile, true to its instincts, persevered not only in opposing the legitimate rights of the citizens, but in plunderiag them remorselessly.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 249

    As the companion tells it

    Coming through Limerick now. Back in 1816, the mills on the north bank of the canal here had fallen almost to ruin. They had been built by Messrs. Welsh and Uzuld, but Messrs. Walker and Company of Cork took them over and fitted them up as a brewery, at an expense of 5,000 pounds. It became one of the first establishments of its kind in Munster. But it did not prosper for any length of time.

11. Carrig-a-Clouragh chain-rock near Kilquane

    Kilquane · townland · Clare · 1690

    A rock near the Shannon bank above the old churchyard of Kilquane, called Carrig-a-Clouragh or Chain-rock, had chains attached to it that crossed the river from Corbally. A pontoon bridge of boats was constructed by William's engineers. The rock was cut umbrella-like to hold the chains and became a noted curiosity visited by men of science and historians from across Europe.

    Read the passage

    Regimeiit_, and other dragoons, were sent to view the ford of Annaghbeg,' of which William was informed, and which he proceeded to visit himself, a place about two miles above the city, where six of King James's regiments, three of horse, and two of dragoons commanded by Berwick and Lutterell, were posted at the other side of the river, with a breast-work to cover them ; these all fired upon the soldiers of William, but a}Dparently ■with little efi'ect, as few were killed or wounded. It was expected by the Wniiamites that they would meet with great difficulties and dangers in the passage of the river — first, because the troops of the besieged were so advantageously placed — and secondly, because the river at this season of the year was particularly swollen and rapid ; but they did not. Tradition states that the ford or pass, through which the hostde army passed over to the Clare side of the river, was betrayed by one MacAdam, who is said to have lived by fishing on the Shannon, and that his knowledge of the fords of the river was consequently very good. He is said to have conveyer! private information as to the place where the army of William might pass with safety ; and in order, if possible, to escape the odium of having been supposed voluntarily to sell the pass, he feigned sickness on the approach of the besieging army, whilst all the other fishermen ran off to the woods of Cratloe and the Clare mountains, as well to avoid being present as in fear of their Hves from the cruelty of William''s soldiers. As the army approached, a block and hatchet and a keg of gold were placed outside the door of the betrayer, who was accompanied bya boyof the neighbourhood, who had rowed a boat. The rich lands adjoining were pointed out to him. He was asked which he selected — the gold and the lauds, or the hatchet and death. The tradition goes on to say that as he had already determined, he at once proceeded to point out to the encpiirers the only place in that portion of the river which they could pass in the manner they desired. A rock was near the river bank, some few perches above the old churchyard of Kilquane, and to this rock, ever since called Carrig-a-Clouragh, or Chain- rock, were attached chains, which are said to have crossed the river from Corbally, nearly opposite Corbally House on the Limerick side. Abridge of boats, or a pontoon bridge, was thus constructed by the engineers. The rock appears to have been cut umbrella-like, or of mushroom shape, in order the more securely to hold the chains. For many years it was an object of singular curiosity : men of science, archeeologists, historians, enquirers, and patriots from all parts of Em'ope were in the habit of visiting it in the course of their tours to Limerick. — There were shallow holes in the top of Carrig-a-Clouragh, and when rain fell, the holes, thus filled with water, appeared as if saturated with blood, the stone being of a reddish colour. About twenty years ago Captain Hamilton Jackson, the then proprietor of this land, the portion of which in question has since, and within the last few years, been purchased by a prosperous laud holder of the neighbourhood,^ ordered a servant, named Council, to blast the rock; but

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 130

12. Castle Connell blown up after the Siege of Limerick

    Castleconnell · town · Limerick · 1690

    After the 1690 siege, Castle Connell was deemed too tenable to leave standing and was blown up together with Carrigogunnel Castle. Dean Story received £160 for gunpowder to destroy both fortresses, leaving dilapidated ruins with immense fragments scattered around.

    Read the passage

    ' Carrigogunnel Casti-e. — This Castle is four miles distant from Limerick, to the S.W., bordering on the demesne of Tervoe, the residence of the Eight Hon. Wm. Monsell, M.P. Mr. Crofton Croker, in his Antiquarian Eesearches in the South of Ireland, says it is one of the largest castles he remembers to have seen in Ireland. It stands on an abrupt limestone rock,* and commands an extensive view, across the Shannon, of the County Clare, and the low grounds termed " Corcass Land," which form the banks of the river. Its building is ascribed to the O'Brien family. Through stipulation and treachery it was lost more than once by the followers of the Earl of Desmond, and those sent to reduce him and the countrj'. At the Siege of Limerick, in 1690, it was garrisoned by 150 men, adherents of James II., but surrendered without resistance to Major General Scravenmore, " the leaving these detachments in such places," observes Dean Story, in his History of the Civil Wars, " being very unaccountable, since they had a mind to defend them no better." The castle was deemed so tenable a position that it was considered expedient to destroy it, and it was accordingly blown up, together with Castle Connell. Dean Story received the very large sum of £160 for the purchase of gunpowder to ruin those fortresses. The dilapidated ruins tell the effects of the explosion. Immense fragments of the walls and towers lie scattered around in picturesque confusion. " It is a matter of difficulty," adds Mr. Croker, " to trace the original plan." Xear this Castle Charles Johnson, the author of Chrj'sal, or the Adventures of a Guinea, and other works, was born in 1719, and received his education from the excellent teacher, the Rev. R. Cashin, who was superior of the Limerick Protestant Diocesan School in the early part of the last century.

    The Vol. 1425 of the Harleian MSS. contains the following pedigree of " O'Brien of Carry- Connell, in the Countie of Limericke."

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 47

13. Catholic petition meeting in Limerick with O'Connell

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1812

    A large Catholic meeting held in Limerick on 24 August 1812 was presided over by John Howley, jun., and attended by Daniel O'Connell and other prominent figures. Resolutions were adopted proclaiming the right of petition and pledging co-operation with the general committee of the Catholics of Ireland.

    Read the passage

    vindicate the rights of petition, and to denounce the conduct of the government. Mr. John Howley, jun.' had presided at the Limerick meeting which took place on the 24th of August, 1812, and which was attended by Daniel O'Connell, Counsellor Casey, Counsellor O'Gorman, &c., and which was a noble meeting, where resolutions were adopted proclaiming the right of petition, thanking the most noble the Earl of Fingal for having taken his proper place at the head of the Cathohcs of Ireland, thanking the honest Protestant, George Lidwell, Esq., and declaring their determination to cooperate with the general committee of the Catholics of Ireland for a redress of grievances. 2 The fight was carried on nobly, unflinchingly, and resolutely. The Catholic Board was formed by Daniel O'Connell, and continued to work zealously ; but on the 4th of June, 1814, the Lord Lieutenant and Privy Council issued aproclamation by which they declared the CathoHc Board an unlawful assembly, and ordered all to abstain from its proceedings ! This did notdampthe ardour of theCatholics. To add to the troubles of the times, an unexpected peace with France was proclaimed, by the banishment of Bonaparte to Elba. The]?eacewasproclaimed on the 27th of June in Limerick, whenprices which the month before had been unprecedentedly high, fell, to the ruin of many speculators. Among themilitiaregimentsdisembodiedinthemonth after,wasthe county of Limerick regiment, whena mutiny had nearly resulted, owing to thefact

    ' The present Mr. Sergeant Howler, Q.C. * State of the Catholic Cause, Dublin, 1812.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 247

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Limerick, the city was the scene of a large Catholic meeting on the 24th of August, 1812. John Howley, jun., presided, and Daniel O'Connell attended, along with Counsellor Casey and Counsellor O'Gorman. The meeting was described at the time as a noble meeting. Resolutions were adopted proclaiming the right of petition, thanking the Earl of Fingal for having taken his proper place at the head of the Catholics of Ireland, and thanking George Lidwell, described as an honest Protestant. The meeting declared its determination to cooperate with the general committee of the Catholics of Ireland for a redress of grievances. Daniel O'Connell formed the Catholic Board, which continued to work zealously. But on the 4th of June, 1814, the Lord Lieutenant and Privy Council issued a proclamation declaring the Catholic Board an unlawful assembly and ordering all to abstain from its proceedings. This did not damp the ardour of the Catholics. To add to the troubles of the times, an unexpected peace with France was proclaimed, by the banishment of Bonaparte to Elba. The peace was proclaimed in Limerick on the 27th of June, when prices that the month before had been unprecedentedly high fell, to the ruin of many speculators. Among the militia regiments disembodied in the month after was the county of Limerick regiment, when a mutiny had nearly resulted.

14. Contested Limerick election and Glentworth ovation

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1812

    A contested election lasting five days ended on 21 August 1812, with the Sheriffs declaring Charles Vereker elected while the independent candidate Lord Glentworth received a magnificent ovation. At least fifty thousand persons preceded and followed the chair in which the young Lord was carried through the city.

    Read the passage

    The efforts of the citizens at this period to free themselves from the incubus of the Corporation were extraordinary. A contested election took place this year ; the election lasted five days, and ended on the 21st of August. The independent interest was supported by young Lord Glentworth, whilst Charles Vereker, Esq. championed the cause of the Corporation. The Sheriffs declared Mr. Vereker elected; but one of the most magnificent ovations ever remembered was given to Lord Glentworth by the citizens — he was chaired through the city with a magnificence hitherto unknown. At least fifty thousand persons preceded and followed the chair in which the young

    ' This Convent continued for some years — but ultimately it was given up, and near its site the magniflcent Convent, &c, of the Sisters of Mercy was subsequently founded.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 246

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Limerick, this is the city where a contested election played out over five days in 1812, ending on the 21st of August. The citizens had been fighting to free themselves from the grip of the Corporation. Young Lord Glentworth stood for the independent interest, while Charles Vereker championed the Corporation's cause. The Sheriffs declared Vereker elected. But the citizens gave Lord Glentworth one of the most magnificent ovations ever remembered. He was chaired through the city with a magnificence hitherto unknown. At least fifty thousand persons preceded and followed the chair in which the young Lord was carried.

15. Corporation squandered tolls and customs income in Limerick

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1824–1833

    The Limerick Corporation's principal income came from tolls and customs, let for £3,706 in 1833, but the money was not spent on improving the city or relieving citizens. Over £10,000 was spent on political contests before 1831, plunging the Corporation into debt.

    Read the passage

    Chamber of Commerce profited from £400 to £1000 a-year by the arrangement ; but the war against the Corporation lost none of its bitterness notwithstandmg ; and the year at which we have arrived, witnessed, to a great extent, the reaHzation of the hopes of the citizens, by a curb being appHed to the overgrown licentiousness and irresponsible malversation of the public funds by the Corporation, During the prosecution of the suit in Parhament, serious charges were brought by Mr. Eice against Chief Baron O'Grady. These charges became the subject of investigation : the principal charge against the Chief Baron being for alleged institutmg and receiving exorbitant fees, not warranted by law, in the matters brought before his court. It was decided by a majority of the House on the 11th of July, that it was not necessary to proceed farther with the investigation. Captain O'Grady, on this occasion, made a defence for his father which ehcited general approbation manifestuig as it did fine natural feeling, and noble self-possession. The Eoyal assent, however, was given to the Regulation Act on the 18th of July ; it having passed the House of Lords on the 14th vtdthout a division. Universal joy prevailed throughout the city. The principal source of income of the Corporation was from the tolls and customs, which had been rapidly increasing every year, and which for the year ending 1833, were let for £3,706. The gross annual produce of them under favorable circumstances, had been estimated at £5,000 per annum.* This money was not expended in improving the city, or in reheving the citizens in any shape or form. The enormous sum of £10,393 19s. 10|d. was spent before 1831 in the political contest between the Corporation and the Independents ; while to sustain the tottering power of the spoliators, a sum of £1011 14s. 7 |d. was laid out for stamps provided for the admission of honorary and non-resident freemen alone^ This expenditure entailed embarrassments of so serious a nature on the Corporation, that bonds were passed in 1824 ; and the discharge of those bonds, until 1833, and indeed duruig the term of its existence until 1841, not only deprived the Corporation of any surplus available to the public uses and charities of the city, but plunged it into debt. The Independents, in this long contest for their rights, did not spare their purses,but with open hand gave freely of their money to the good cause ; and it has been estimated that it cost them £30,000 in the prosecution of the contest against the Corporation.' Never did a body of men act with a truer sense of what they owed to themselves and to the important interests of which they were the guardians, than the Limerick Independents, composed of Protestants and Catholics ; a feehng of liberahty prevailed between them, arising fi'om the fact that they were engaged in a common cause, and that mutual co-operation was essential for the success of the paramount objects on which they had set their hearts. They went on hand in hand, setting an example of perseverance and energy, while, though the Corporation continued to drag on a miserable existence for some few years, and expended annually a sum of £3,000 in the payment of the Mayor, Chamberlain, Corporate Staff, &c. it held no place in the estimation of the citizens, but on the contrary was pronounced to be a disgrace and an abuse even by

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 262

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Limerick, you are moving through a city where, in the years between 1824 and 1833, the Corporation's principal income came from tolls and customs, let for £3,706 in 1833, with a gross annual produce estimated at £5,000 under favourable circumstances. None of this money was spent on improving the city or relieving the citizens. Before 1831, the enormous sum of £10,393, 19 shillings and 10 pence went into the political contest between the Corporation and the Independents. A further £1,011, 14 shillings and 7 pence was laid out for stamps to admit honorary and non-resident freemen, sustaining what the passage calls the tottering power of the spoliators. The Corporation had passed bonds in 1824, and the discharge of those bonds until 1833, and indeed until 1841, not only deprived it of any surplus for public uses and charities, but plunged it into debt. The Independents, Protestants and Catholics together, did not spare their purses. It has been estimated that the contest cost them £30,000. During the prosecution of the suit in Parliament, Mr. Rice brought serious charges against Chief Baron O'Grady, principally for alleged instituting and receiving exorbitant fees not warranted by law. On the 11th of July, a majority of the House decided it was not necessary to proceed further. Captain O'Grady made a defence for his father that elicited general approbation. The Royal assent was given to the Regulation Act on the 18th of July, having passed the House of Lords on the 14th without a division. Universal joy prevailed throughout the city. The Corporation continued to drag on, expending £3,000 annually on the Mayor, Chamberlain and corporate staff, but it held no place in the estimation of the citizens. It was pronounced a disgrace and an abuse.

16. Creagh confined in Dublin after landing in Ireland

    Dublin · city · Dublin · 1558–1560

    After being consecrated Archbishop of Armagh, Richard Creagh returned to Ireland and was shortly afterwards taken and confined in Dublin. He and his keeper later escaped, and he fled abroad, only to return again to the Irish mission before being recaptured and brought back to Dublin.

    Read the passage

    1585. This great and illustrious Prelate and Primate of Ireland, was born in the City of Limerick, of honest and industrious parents. His father was Nicholas Creagh, a merchant, and his mother's name was Joan White ; in his youth he was bound apprentice to a grocer, which calling, as he did not like, it being exposed to commit frauds, he soon obtained his indentures, and applied himself closely to his studies, in which he made a great proficiency. He then went to Louvain, where he studied philosophy and divinity, and argued being made a Bachelor. Being promoted, he returned to his native country and city, where he laboured indefatigably by his private teachings, his public sermons, and by his instructing the children and the ignorant in the rudiments of the faith. After thus exerting himself for some time in the mission, he again went abroad, as well to perfect himself more in his learning, as to embrace a more austere and religious life, for which purpose he went to Rome, but was forbid by Pope Pius V. to become a Regular until His Holiness's will was further signified to him, for the Pope designed him for filling the see of Armagh, then vacant by the death of George Dowdall, Archbishop, which he accordingly did ; and as soon as Richard was consecrated he repaired to Ireland [Dowdall died in June, 1558 — Ware], where in a short time after his landing, he was taken and confined in Dublin. After being some time in fetters, he, together with his keeper, made their escape, and he again retired to foreign countries, where, after breathing a little liberty, and understanding that it was the will of his Holiness that he should again return to the mission of Ireland, he according!}' did so, and there, for a while, he most strenuously laboured for the edification of his flock, until he was again taken and brought to Dublin, where he was arraigned for being a transgressor of the law and a breaker of the jail. He justified himself with great presence of mind, acknowledged himself to be a Catholic Prelate, but denied his breaking the jail, whereas his keeper made off along with him. The judge made a malevolent charge to the jury against him — the jury, according to custom, were locked up, but disagreeing to their verdict, they continued some days shut up, living on bread and water, and at length brought him not guilty ; the jury thereupon were imprisoned and fined. The Prelate was transmitted to England, and fettered in a nauseous dark dungeon of the Tower of London ; he was allowed no more light than what served him to eat his victuals by, but which he served to say his oifice with, and he likewise contrived to save the fat of his victuals, and with a rag to make a kind of a candle whereby to have light to say his office. He was at length brought out of this dark dungeon, and lodged in a more lightsome apartment of the Tower. It was during his abode here that the new Bishops appointed by Queen Elizabeth to fill the sees of England, not being able to find any Catholic Bishop to give them consecration, had resource to Archbishop Creagh in the Tower ; for that purpose they therefore invited him to a neighbouring tavern ; they flattered and caressed him ; they offered him his liberty, the choicest church livings, the Queen's favor, and the highest bribes, if he would but consent to consecrate them ; but all their offers were in vain ; he would not betray the

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 68

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Dublin, this is where Richard Creagh was taken and confined shortly after landing in Ireland. He was born in Limerick, son of Nicholas Creagh, a merchant, and Joan White. In his youth he was bound apprentice to a grocer, but disliked the calling, as it was exposed to frauds. He obtained his indentures and turned to study, going to Louvain for philosophy and divinity, where he was made a Bachelor. He returned to Ireland and laboured through teachings, sermons, and instructing the ignorant in the faith. He went abroad again to Rome. Pope Pius V forbade him to become a Regular, for the Pope designed him to fill the see of Armagh, vacant by the death of Archbishop George Dowdall in June 1558. Creagh was consecrated and repaired to Ireland. In a short time after his landing he was taken and confined in Dublin, and put in fetters. After some time, he and his keeper made their escape. He retired to foreign countries, and after understanding it was the will of his Holiness that he should return to the Irish mission, he did so. He laboured strenuously for his flock, until he was again taken and brought back to Dublin. He was arraigned for being a transgressor of the law and a breaker of the jail. He acknowledged himself to be a Catholic Prelate, but denied breaking the jail, saying his keeper made off along with him. The judge made a malevolent charge to the jury. The jury were locked up, disagreeing, and continued some days on bread and water, until they brought him not guilty. The jury were thereupon imprisoned and fined.

17. Danes capture Primate of Armagh, 843

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 843

    In 843, Foranan, Primate of Armagh, was taken prisoner at Cluan-Combarda with his relics and people, and brought by Danish pirates to their ships at Limerick. The Annals of Clonmacnoise corroborate this account.

    Read the passage

    Records of the barbarous and unrelenting cruelties of the Danes, of sacrilegious attacks made by them on those sacred edifices and holy men which were now becoming numerous, are found in the Annals long before Yorus surrounded the city with a wall, and erected the fortress which enabled his countrymen to hold their position for some ages after against the combined strength and opposition of the native Irish. In 843 Foranan, Primate of Armagh, was taken prisoner at Cluan-Combarda,' (a place unidentified by the commentators) with his rehcs and people, and brought by the pirates to their ships at Limerick. The statement is corroborated by the Annals of Clonmacnoise, which designate Forannan Abbot of Armagh, and allege thaf the crime was perpetrated by the Danes at Cloneowardy, adding that his family, attendants, &c., relics and books, were led from thence to the ships in Limerick.

    Our annals, during those dark and dismal ages, present but Uttle, on which to dwell with satisfaction. The Danes, to retain their hold of maritime places, were busy and aggressive. The Irish in turn revenged the injuries and injustices of their cruel oppressors ; but in the midst of every difficulty and danger, religion was speeding its bright way. The succession of bishops, in several of the Irish sees, had continued with regularity since the preaclmig of St Patrick.* Up to this period " Luimeuach" was the original name of the

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 10

    As the companion tells it

    As you come through Limerick, you are passing through a place the Danes used as a maritime base in the ninth century. The Annals record that in 843, Foranan, Primate of Armagh, was taken prisoner at Cluan-Combarda, a place the commentators have not identified. He was seized along with his relics and his people, and the pirates brought them all to their ships here at Limerick. The Annals of Clonmacnoise corroborate the account. They call Forannan Abbot of Armagh, and they name the place Cloneowardy. They say his family and attendants, his relics and his books, were led from there to the ships in Limerick. Our annals from those dark and dismal ages present little to dwell on with satisfaction. The Danes were busy and aggressive, holding maritime places. The Irish in turn revenged the injuries and injustices of their cruel oppressors. But in the midst of every difficulty and danger, religion was speeding its bright way. The succession of bishops in several of the Irish sees had continued with regularity since the preaching of Saint Patrick. Up to this period, Luimeuach was the original name of the place.

18. Death of Dermod Macmorrogh at Ferns

    Ferns · townland · Wexford · 1171

    Dermod Macmorrogh, King of Leinster who brought the Saxons to Ireland and burned churches at Kells and Clonard, died at Ferns of an unknown disease without making a will or receiving the last rites.

    Read the passage

    . » Dermod Macmorrogb, King of Lemster, by ^yhom a trembling sod was made of all Irelandafter bavin- brougbt over the Saxons-after having done extensive injuries to the Irish-after Snrplunde ed and burnt many churches, such as Kells, Clonard, and others, died before the pnroffvearf after his ravages through Meath), of an insufferable and unknown disease^for he became putrd Sh e sUl living, through the miraculous power of God, Columbkille, and Fmneeu. andXeo her lints of Ireland whose churches he had violated and burned some time Feviou^y. He died in Ferna-mor without making a wUl, without repentance, without the body of Christ, without being anointed, as his evil conduct mented."-AnnalsoJthe Four Masters.

    a It is Xasant to have to state that the Danes and Irish of the towns (Wexford, Waterford, and Dubl?n)Tn wh ch the Danes had settled, offered a brave and not always meffectual resistance t?thP^ew invaders The Danes of Duleek, for instance, had severely revenged an insult offered by the S^to t^^^^^^^ saint, St. Kianan, by the Knights of Milo de Cogan ; but As^l ,

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 26

19. Departure of the Wild Geese from Limerick

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1691

    After the wars, over 19,000 Irish soldiers sailed to France. Wives and daughters of the soldiers were drowned or had their hands injured trying to board the transports carrying their loved ones away.

    Read the passage

    thus deprived of husbands, and brothers, and friends I Many wives and daughters of these self-expatriated warriors were drowned in attempting to go on board the transports ; whilst the hands and arms of others of them were cut to pieces, in order to compel them to rehnquish their hold of the ships that carried away those whom they cherished with the deepest affection. The loss to Ireland was incalculable.

    The numbers of the Irish who went off to France, were nineteen thousand and fifty-nine, officers included, besides the brigade of Lord Mount Cashell then in France, consisting of three regiments, each composed of two battalions, forming one thousand six hundred men, in sixteen companies, under the names of MountcasheU. O'Brien and Dillon. ^

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 156

    As the companion tells it

    Coming through Limerick. In 1691, after the wars, over 19,000 Irish soldiers sailed from here to France. Wives and daughters of these soldiers tried to board the transports. Some were drowned in the attempt. Others clung to the ships, and their hands and arms were cut to pieces to make them let go of the vessels carrying away those they loved. The loss to Ireland was incalculable. The number who left for France was 19,059, officers included. This was besides Lord Mount Cashell's brigade, already in France, consisting of three regiments, each of two battalions, 1,600 men in sixteen companies, under the names of Mount Cashell, O'Brien, and Dillon.

20. Donogh Beg O'Brien executed and hung from Quin steeple

    Quin · town · Clare · 1584–1585

    Sir John Perrott arrived at Quin in County Clare where the sheriff delivered up Donogh Beg O'Brien, called arch-traitor and leader of Connaught plunderers. His mangled, half-dead body was hung from the top of the steeple of Quin as a warning.

    Read the passage

    The death of the Earl of Desmond was followed by a period of tranquillity. The hopes of the disaffected were extinguished, and desolation and famine followed the ravages of five years of civil war. Sir John Perrott was sworn into the office of Lord Deputy on the 26th of June, 1581, and after making a progress to Athlone and Galway, attended by Sir John jNTorris and Sir Eichard Bingham, who were respectively Presidents of Munster and Connaught, arrived at Quin in the county Clare, where Cruise, the sheriff of the county, dehvered up to him Donogh Beg O^Brien, styled by the Annalists, in their excessive loyalty, the arch traitor and leader of the plunderers of Connaught : — " whose body, mangled and half dead after hanging, was affixed, fastened with hard and hempen ropes to the top of the steeple of Quin as a warning to evil doers." Turlough, son of Owney O'Loghlen of Burren, had been executed previously by Sir Edward Brabazon, the temporary governor of thje province. The Lord Justice went next day to Limerick, and was resolved, according to the Annals of the Four Masters, to destroy and reduce a great number of gentlemen on each side of Limerick, until news reached him that a Scotch lieet had arrived in the north of Ireland, whither Perrott proceeded at once, and promptly repressed the movement.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 66

21. Douglas arrives at camp in Cullen after retreat from Athlone

    Cullen · townland · Tipperary · 1690

    After sacking Thurles and passing through Holycross, Douglas and the remnant of his forces reached the camp at Cullen, arriving by August 8th, having avoided Sarsfield throughout his march.

    Read the passage

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

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 122

22. Dr. O'Moloney elected Bishop of Killaloe, 1671

    Killaloe · town · Clare · 1650–1671

    At a council in Dublin in June 1670, the see of Killaloe was solicited for Dr. O'Moloney, described as 'a learned and prudent man'. He was elected by the Propaganda in May 1671 and consecrated in Paris, filling a vacancy that had existed since the death of John O'Moloney in 1650.

    Read the passage

    Ballymiillen Castle, in that county.' Dr. O'Moloney was educated in the Seminary of St. Sulpice, in Paris, where he became a distinguished student and an ornament to that celebrated seat of ecclesiastical learning.^ He was yet in Paris in 1669, when Oliver Plunkett was raised to the primacy ; and for that appointment, he wrote from Paris to the Sacred Congregation, thanking the Propaganda in the warmest terms for giving so illustrious an archbishop to the Irish Church. At a council convened in Dublin in June 1670 by Dr. Plunkett, a petition was forwarded to the Holy See, recommending certain ecclesiastics to Irish sees. The see of Killaloe was solicited for Dr. O'Moloney, " a learned and prudent man", and for Dr. G'Gripha. The choice fell on Dr. O'Moloney, who, in May, 1671, was elected by the Propaganda, and consecrated in Paris shortly afterwards. Killaloe had been without a bishop since the death in 1650

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 353

23. Dr. Young's College at Park

    Park · townland · Limerick · 1805–1830

    Bishop Dr. John Young founded a diocesan college at Park, within the demesne of Park House in Limerick, having purchased the site for £1800 as a residence for the Bishops of the diocese. Catholic citizens subscribed largely for the purpose in 1805, and the college sent out many distinguished clergymen before its students were drafted elsewhere in 1830.

    Read the passage

    We have to go back a little to take a retrospect of the conduct and of the struggles of the Catholics of Limerick, soon after the series of events with whiclTour preceding chapter has been so largely occupied. The rebellion of '98, the attempt of Emmett in 1803, the insolent bigotry and exclusive monopoly of the Orange party mside and outside the Corporation, the decay of trade, Avhich to a great extent was influenced by the Act of Union and other causes, had clouded but not destroyed the dawmug hopes of the Catholics. The Eight Eev. John Young, though a firm loyalist, and an anxious supporter of order, was at the same time thoroughly devoted to the best interests of his country, and the Cathohc rehgion possessed mhim a fearless and accomphshed defender and advocate in all times and seasons. Learned,! indefatigable, devoted to study, and to the exacting duties of his exalted station, he was an example of piety and self-denial, and exercised an mfluence, by the unostentatious performance of his duty, which was widely felt beyond the confines of his extensive diocese. There was no diocesan seminary or college, at this period, in Munster, except the small one at Peter's Cell, Limerick, and that of St. John's, Waterford, which coutmues to flourish up to this our own day, when Dr. Young conceived the idea of founding a college, suited to the increasing requirements of the diocese. _ In this he was aided not only by the clergy, but by the Catholic citizens, who m 1805, had entered into large subscriptions for the purpose : the site was at Park, within the demesne of Park House, which Dr. Young had purchased for £1800, as a residence for the Bishops of the diocese ; he presided over the college, which sent out many distinguished clergymen.^ In the agitation which now grew up, connected with the Cathohc claims, nothing became of more absorbing and intense interest than the question of the YETO~in other words, the permission of government interference in the appomtment of Cathohc Bishops —a proposal against which, the Catholic Hierarchy of Ireland had protested, and not one of them with more sunpleness of purpose and directness of aim, than Dr. Young in 1808, when a solenm synod was held m Dublhi, and when their sentiments were expressed in language not to be mistaken or

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 241

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere close to Park, there was a college founded by Bishop Dr. John Young. He was a firm loyalist and a supporter of order, but he was also thoroughly devoted to the best interests of his country, and the Catholic religion had in him a fearless and accomplished defender. He was learned, indefatigable, devoted to study and to the duties of his station, and he exercised an influence far beyond the confines of his diocese. At that time, there was no diocesan seminary or college in Munster except the small one at Peter's Cell in Limerick, and that of St. John's in Waterford, which continues to flourish. Dr. Young conceived the idea of founding a college suited to the increasing requirements of the diocese. In this he was aided not only by the clergy but by the Catholic citizens, who in 1805 entered into large subscriptions for the purpose. The site was at Park, within the demesne of Park House, which Dr. Young had purchased for £1800 as a residence for the Bishops of the diocese. He presided over the college, which sent out many distinguished clergymen, before its students were drafted elsewhere in 1830. In 1808, a solemn synod was held in Dublin, connected with the Catholic claims and the question of the Veto, the permission of government interference in the appointment of Catholic bishops. The Catholic hierarchy of Ireland had protested against this proposal, and not one of them with more singleness of purpose and directness of aim than Dr. Young.

24. Earl of Roscommon's fatal stair fall in Limerick

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1650

    J. Dillon, Earl of Roscommon, fell down twelve steps of stairs in Limerick and died four days afterwards. In the presence of death, he renounced Protestantism and received the last sacraments, attributed to the prayers of his Jesuit brother Father George Dillon.

    Read the passage

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

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

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 381

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Limerick, this city holds a story from 1650. J. Dillon, Earl of Roscommon, fell down twelve steps of stairs here and died four days afterwards. In the presence of death, he renounced Protestantism and received the last sacraments. Most probably he owed this grace to the prayers of his brother, Father George Dillon, a Jesuit. Father George Dillon was a distinguished theologian and writer in the Society of Jesus. He died the same year, 1650, in Waterford, a martyr of charity, invoking the sweet name of Jesus. He was described as a holy, hard-working man, a cousin of Primates Plunket and Talbot, and a son of Robert, the second Earl of Roscommon. The passage notes that Father Christopher Holywood of Ashwood, near Dublin, a Jesuit, was imprisoned in the tower of London for five years and was a near relative of the zealous Protestant Lord Dunsany. Father Fitzsimon of Dublin told a story of Adam Loftus, an apostate priest and Lord Primate, and said, 'Let me be believed on the word of a religious man, that not private hate nor any desire to gravel Adam's issue, part whereof is linked to me in kindred, but truth and the glory of God, have occasioned me to narrate the fact, of which I was a witness.' Primate Usher's uncle and first cousin were also Jesuits. The Arthur manuscripts record the Earl's fall here in Limerick.

25. Emigrant ship Astrea lost with 240 lives from Limerick

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1834

    On June 11th, 1834, the Astrea, filled with emigrants and bound from Limerick to Quebec, was reported lost with 240 lives. The ship was supposed to have got upon the ice off Halifax in a fog.

    Read the passage

    June 11th. — The Astrea, filled with emigrants, bound from Limerick to Quebec, reported to be lost, with 240 lives. Supposed that she got upon the ice off Halifax in a fog.

    September 13th. — A branch of the Agricultural and Commercial Bank established at a public meeting in Limerick — John Dobbs, Esq., in the chair.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 277

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Limerick, this is the port the Astrea sailed from. On June 11th, 1834, the ship, filled with emigrants and bound for Quebec, was reported lost with 240 lives. She was supposed to have got upon the ice off Halifax in a fog.

26. Faction reconciliation in Tipperary with 50,000 men

    Tipperary · town · Tipperary · 1828

    During 1828, faction feuds which had divided the people ceased in general reconciliations. In Tipperary, 50,000 men assembled and swore on the altar of their country never to fight among themselves again, striking terror into the dominant faction.

    Read the passage

    As a counterpoise to this victory, Brunswick Clubs were now estabHshed everywhere throughout the country by the ascendancy party. At Eathkeale, a great meeting of the gentry of the county of Limerick took place, at which a Brunswick Club was initiated, and of which Lord ]\Iuskerry became the President. At Charleville a club was likewise initiated. At Nenagh, the Tories of the Ormonds established a Club.^ A Protestant declaration, drawn up in Limerick in favor of Catholic claims, lay for a fortnight at the Commercial Buildings, and had not received a dozen signatures during that time. Liberal and Independent Clubs started up side by side with the Brunswick Clubs. It was action and counter action — plot and counter plot. The Order of Liberators, which had been established by O'Connell, who first spoke of his intention to that effect at the great Waterford election in 1826, between VilHers Stuart and Lord George Beresford, received new accessions every day to its members. In the Catholic Association Eichard Shell thundered with Demosthenic fire, while " Bully Boyton'^' fired from behind some " Constitutional" Club, in sustainment of principles which had already become exploded. The faction feuds which had hitherto divided and destroyed the people, ceased in general reconciliations, particularly between the factions in Limerick and in Tipperary, where on one occasion, during this year, 50,000 men assembled, and swore on the altar of their country that they never would fight again among themselves, an event which more than any other struck terror into the hitherto dominant faction.*

    ' Then Moriarty's — afterwards Cruise'3 Royal Hotel, which he never left without calling for Mrs. Cruise and thanking her for her elegant hospitality. This hotel is now (1S65) rented by Mr. John Joseph Clearj', and retains its high character.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 275

27. Fearful murder on the River Shannon

    Shannon · town · Clare · 1819–1820

    A murder of the most revolting atrocity was perpetrated on the 4th of July in the River Shannon, within the jurisdiction of Limerick city. The trial before Justice Richard Jebb at the Munster Circuit assizes in spring 1820 became one of the most remarkable cases of the era, inspiring romances and dramas.

    Read the passage

    In the spring of the year 1820, a trial as remarkable as any that has since taken place, occupied the attention of the public. Romances have been written and dramas enacted on the groundwork furnished by this terribly tragic event, which became the subject of judicial enquiry before the Right Hon. Richard Jebb (fourth Justice of the King's Bench), who, with the Hon. Henry Joy (first Sergeant), went the Munster Circuit at that assizes. A fearful murder had been perpetrated on the 4th, of the previous July, in the River Shannon, within the jurisdiction of the city, and under circumstances of the most revolting atrocity — circumstances which have awakened the indignation of every individual to whom they have become known in all parts of the world. The principal in that murder was a person

    1 A pamphlet called the " Old Bailey Solicitor," in which the most dreadful imputations are cast on Mr. Hoskins, and in which " Captain Kock" is described, appeared about this time. It enters into many details as to the alleged misconduct of Mr. Iloskins, and mismanagement of the Courtenay Estate by oppression, &c., and gives a statement respecting the trials and conviction of leaders of the Kockites. The original Captain Rock, whose name was Fitzmaiirice, was tried in Limerick in 1S22, and executed.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 257

28. First Limerick mayor to take the test oath, 1693

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1693

    In 1693, the year after the Treaty of Limerick, John Roord became the first mayor of Limerick to take the anti-Catholic test oath, joined by sheriffs William Davis and Abraham Bowman, marking the beginning of systematic Catholic exclusion from civic office.

    Read the passage

    In a Avord, the ink was scarcely dry on the treaty, when the triumphant faction made no scruple of their determination to wreak vengeance on the uoAV prostrate Catholics of Ireland with more ihan early bitterness and cruelty. A medal was struck in which the insolence of the chance victor was clearly manifested. The test oath was forced by Act of Parhament to be taken by mayors and sheriffs in corporate towns and cities. In Limerick, John Eoord was the first mayor who took this abominable oath ; he was a mei-chaut of no great wealth or position ; but he was obsequiously imitated by William Davis and Abraham Bowman, the sheriSs. This was in 1693, the year after the treaty. An act similar in terms and in effect was passed in the I4tli of Charles II. for the same alleged reason, viz. that, accordmg to Harris, "it was necessary and beneficial;" but in Charleses time it could not be carried into efl^ect — ^it became wholly inoperative. The efi'ect of this nefarious enactment changed, at once, the position of the entire Catholic body. In Limerick, even in dark and evil days, the Catholics made a noble stand against the advances of bigotry. The guilds of trade, which were recognised by the charter of Edward I. and which had received their incoi-poration from the municipal body, had been hitherto for several years composed, in a great measure, of Catholic artizans ; these guilds now becnme dens of Orange rancour. An a])prcntice to the Avoollen, or almost any other manufacture, should be a Protestant. No CathoHc child was admitted to indentureship. Under the pretext of retaliation, the worst deeds were perpetrated. Because, it was said. King James had disarmed certain ultra Protestants, William disarmed Catholics wholesale; Because some injustice was perpetrated on one side, the other should rob, and banish, and plunder with impunity ! We draw a veil over many of the atrocious and terrible acts of these most awful thnes. The Catholics were disarmed wholesale. The gentlemen appointed to give licenses for carrying arms in the city and county of Limerick were of the" true blue stamp and complexion : they were men who, a few years before, had obtained grants of forfeited, or rather of plundered lands from " Irish Papists." The following are their names : — Sir Simon Eaton, Bart., Sir William King, Knt., the Mayor of Limerick ; Eobert Taylor, Eichard ]\Iaguire, Arthur Ormsby, George Evans, Sen., Ralph WUson, Simon Purdon, Joseph Stepney, Edmond Pery, William Cox, John Dickson, Humphrey Hartwell, George Evans, Jun.. Hugh IMassy, Thomas Holmes, Henry Westenra, John Otway, David Wilson, and Charles Oliver, Esqrs. They gave arms, but only to their own creatures, slaves or dependents.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 163

29. First steamer from Foynes to America

    Foynes · town · Limerick

    The first steamer to leave the Shannon direct by Foynes for America was Mr. Tait's blockade runner, the Evelyn, carrying clothing manufactured at his Limerick factory for the late Confederate army of America.

    Read the passage

    a hamlet beautifully situated on the Shannon, and important as the proposed station for the American mail packets. Good coal plants and shells have been found in the coal shales near Foynes. Near Foynes is Knockpatrick, traditionally said to have been visited by Saint Patrick, on the top of which is an ancient church and cemetery, and certain stones on. which, tradition states, the Apostle of Ireland knelt in prayer. From Foynes there is railway communication with Limerick, and steam boat communication with Kilrush. The first steamer that has left the Shannon direct by Foynes for America, was Mr. Tait's blockade runner, the Evelyn, with clothing made up at his factory in Limerick for the late Confederate army of America.

    Seats — Mount Trenchard (Lord Mounteagle).

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 431

30. Fitz-Morris fortified at Smerwick

    Smerwick · townland · Kerry · 1577

    In 1577, James Fitz-Morris landed and fortified at Smerwick, and the Earl of Desmond rebelled. This was part of the Desmond Rebellion against English rule.

    Read the passage

    1577 James Fitz-Morris landed and fortified at Smerwick, and the Earl of Desmond rebelled. Sexten's Annals.

    1579 James Fitz-Morris and Theobald did slay either the other. Sexttn's Annals. 15^0 The fort at Smerwick taken, and the no. of 600 or 700 Spaniard, and Italians put to the sword [1680]. Ibid. .

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 404

31. Fort on Shannon's Lax weir taken and defenders slaughtered

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1651

    Parliamentarians seized a fort standing in the middle of the Shannon on the great Lax weir, whose castle ruins were still visible. After the defenders abandoned the fort and surrendered in boats, soldiers perpetrated a cold-blooded slaughter condemned by Ireton, leading to a court martial that cashiered Colonel Tuthill and his captain.

    Read the passage

    Sir Charles Coote, during these proceedings, was engaged in bloody deeds in Connaught, where he besieged Portumna house, the residence of the Earl of Clanrickarde, and whom as we have seen, the Earl of Ormond had constituted his deputy in that province. Ludlow, from whose memoirs we have drawn some of these details, in his progress from Connaught to Limerick, where his presence in aid of Ireton was essentially demanded, summoned Gurtenshegore, a castle near Gort, belonging to Sir Dermot O^Shaughnessy, who being at the time in Galway, had left his tenants, some soldiers, and Polliot, an Enghshman, to command them, in the castle. Here Ludlow was treated, for a time, with utter contempt, the occupants of the castle soundiug their bag-pipes in derision, although fire and faggot, iron bars, pickaxes and sledges threatened them. The defenders resisted bravely. A desperate engagement ensued, FolUot acting with determined pertinacity — and it was not until after severe fighting, the castle was surrendered. Ireton^s army marched immediately to Limerick. Pive hundred head of cattle that had been taken in Burren, Co. Clare, were driven on, and killed to refresh the army, to which Ludlow and his friends now returned, and which had already possessed themselves of a fort that stood in the middle of the river Shannon, on the great Lax weir, where the ruins of the castle are yet to be seen. A small battery of two guns had been erected against the castle ; one of them was fii'ed into a room, and breaking the leg of a soldier, so terrified the others that betaking themselves to their boats, they abandoned the place — which the Parliamentarians perceiving, fired so furiously on them, that aU in the boats surrendered, notwithstanding which, some of them were put to the sword, by the merciless soldiery, whose hearts were steeled against humanity. They perpetrated a cold-blooded slaughter, which Ireton condemned, and

    174 HISTORY OF LIMERICK.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 97

    As the companion tells it

    Coming through Limerick, the Shannon holds a story from 1651. A fort stood in the middle of the river, on the great Lax weir, where the ruins of its castle were still to be seen in later years. Ireton's army had already seized this fort. Against the castle they erected a small battery of two guns. One gun was fired into a room and broke the leg of a soldier inside. The defenders were so terrified they took to their boats and abandoned the place. The Parliamentarians, perceiving this, fired furiously on the boats until all in them surrendered. Despite the surrender, some were put to the sword by the soldiery, whose hearts, in the words of the account, were steeled against humanity. They perpetrated a cold-blooded slaughter, which Ireton condemned. It led to a court martial that cashiered Colonel Tuthill and his captain. The fort had fallen during a wider campaign. Ludlow was marching from Connaught to Limerick, where his presence in aid of Ireton was essentially demanded. On his way he summoned Gurtenshegore, a castle near Gort belonging to Sir Dermot O'Shaughnessy, who was away in Galway and had left his tenants, some soldiers, and an Englishman named Polliot to defend it. The occupants sounded their bagpipes in derision at the attackers, even as fire and faggot, iron bars, pickaxes and sledges threatened them. A desperate engagement ensued, Polliot acting with determined pertinacity. Only after severe fighting was the castle surrendered. Ireton's army marched immediately to Limerick. Five hundred head of cattle taken in Burren, County Clare, were driven on and killed to refresh the army, which by then had already possessed itself of the fort on the Lax weir.

32. Franciscan chapel opened in Newgate Lane, Limerick

    near Newgate Lane · street · Limerick · 1782

    The Franciscans opened their new chapel in Newgate Lane on Christmas Day 1782, as Catholics began to resume public worship after the sufferings following the violation of the Treaty of 1691.

    Read the passage

    lent chapel in Creagh-lane — two years before — which they opened on the 6th of December, 1778. St. MichaePs Parochial Chapel was opened in Denmarkstreet, on the 29th of September, 1781; and the Franciscans opened their new chapel in Newgate-lane, on Christmas day, 1782. These events show that the Catholics were at length assuming their place after nnheard-of sufferings, cruelties, and horrors, which came in rapid succession after the violation of the Treaty of 1691, and that a spirit of toleration had begun to prevail very generally.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 209

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere about Newgate Lane in Limerick, the Franciscans opened their new chapel on Christmas Day 1782. It was part of a wider turning point for Catholics in the city. St. Michael's Parochial Chapel had opened in Denmark Street the year before, in September 1781, and before that a chapel in Creagh Lane had opened in December 1778. These events show that Catholics were at last resuming public worship after what the source calls the unheard-of sufferings, cruelties, and horrors that followed the violation of the Treaty of 1691. A spirit of toleration had begun to prevail.

33. Government military buildup in Limerick district after Clare election

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1828

    To quell the people after O'Connell's Clare election victory, the government brought substantial military forces into the Limerick district, including artillery from Athlone, dragoons from Carlow, and infantry from multiple towns. Many soldiers sympathised with O'Connell's cause.

    Read the passage

    a majority of 1091, after a contest unequalled since the commencement of Parliamentary elections, the joy that diffused itseK everywhere knew no bounds. On his return to Limerick fi'om Clare on the Monday after his victory, O'Counell was escorted into the city by the congregated trades, with banners and heralds bearing wands wreathed with laurel. A vast concourse of people swelled to thousands the crowds by which his triumphal car was surrounded. He arrived at his hotel in George's- street, i where he addressed the assembled myriads, demanding of them if ever before they had seen a CathoHc member of Parliament ? He bestowed lavish abuse on the ministry, on the corporation of Limerick, as well as on that of Dublin ; he denounced the local Tory press in unmeasured terms. He left town on the 8th of July in a green barouche and four, loudly cheered, and accompanied by " honest Jack Lawless." To shew the extent of the preparations made to quell the people by the Government at this time, there were brought into the Limerick district a brigade of Artillery from Athlone, three troops of the Bays from Carlow, three troops of the third Dragoon Guards from Mayo and Galway, two companies of the 5th Foot from Athlone, three companies of the Gith from Galway, 62nd Regiment from Templemore, 75th ditto from Mullingar, in addition to an enormous strength of military that had been before this in Limerick and Clare. Many of these soldiers sympathised heartily with O'Connell and his cause, and declared their feehngs in terms not to be mistaken.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 275

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Limerick, this is the city where O'Connell returned in triumph after his Clare election victory in 1828. He had won by a majority of 1091, in a contest unequalled since the commencement of Parliamentary elections. On the Monday after his victory, he came back to Limerick from Clare, escorted into the city by the congregated trades, with banners and heralds bearing wands wreathed with laurel. A vast concourse of people swelled to thousands the crowds by which his triumphal car was surrounded. He arrived at his hotel in George's Street, where he addressed the assembled myriads. He asked them if ever before they had seen a Catholic member of Parliament. He bestowed lavish abuse on the ministry, on the corporation of Limerick, as well as on that of Dublin, and he denounced the local Tory press in unmeasured terms. He left town on the 8th of July in a green barouche and four, loudly cheered, accompanied by honest Jack Lawless. To show the extent of the preparations made to quell the people, the government brought enormous military force into the Limerick district. A brigade of artillery came from Athlone. Three troops of the Bays came from Carlow. Three troops of the third Dragoon Guards came from Mayo and Galway. Two companies of the 5th Foot came from Athlone. Three companies of the 63rd came from Galway. The 62nd Regiment came from Templemore, the 75th from Mullingar. All of this was in addition to the military already in Limerick and Clare. Many of these soldiers sympathised heartily with O'Connell and his cause, and declared their feelings in terms not to be mistaken.

34. Honan's Quay and the corn export controversy

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1786

    Mr. Honan, an enterprising Limerick merchant, built a portion of the city's quays known as Honan's Quay and pioneered the export of corn from Limerick. He faced fierce opposition from the humbler classes and city authorities who viewed cereal exports as a calamity, with the Mayor even deploying the army to obstruct trade.

    Read the passage

    It may be here remarked, that though the commerce of the port had been increasing considerably, and though a large business was transacted with Spain, Holland, &c,, the export of corn was but little known up to this period ; and when it was commenced by Mr. Honan, an enterprising merchant, who built a portion of the quays of Limerick, called after himself and known to this day by the name of Honan's quay, he had every difficulty that it is possible to imagine to encounter, from the humbler classes of the citizens,' who looked upon the export of cereals as the greatest visitation that could befal them, and who were backed by the Mayor and the authorities in their interference with the course of trade. ^ Captain Topham Bowden, who wrote a book of travels in Ireland, visited Limerick soon after these times, and speaks of the state of society in the highest terms of praise. Dr. Campbell, author of a Survey of Ireland, speaks of the Milesian manners, and of the fondness of the citizens for music when he wrote, about ten years before. In 1786: — George Smyth was Recorder. -

    Henry Hallam, Town Clerk. M

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 217

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Limerick, you are near a stretch of quay that carries the name of the merchant who built it. Mr. Honan was an enterprising trader who put up a portion of the city's quays, and it became known as Honan's Quay. The port's commerce had been growing, with large business done with Spain and Holland, but the export of corn was little known until Honan began it. He faced every difficulty imaginable. The humbler citizens looked on the export of cereals as the greatest visitation that could befal them. The Mayor and the authorities backed them and interfered with the course of trade. Captain Topham Bowden, who wrote a book of travels in Ireland, visited Limerick soon after these times and spoke of the state of society in the highest terms. Dr. Campbell, author of a Survey of Ireland, had written of the Milesian manners and the citizens' fondness for music about ten years before. In 1786, George Smyth was Recorder, and Henry Hallam was Town Clerk.

35. Hugh Lacy restored as Bishop of Limerick under Queen Mary

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1557–1568

    Hugh Lacy (Lees), a canon of Limerick of the De Lacy family, was appointed Bishop of Limerick by Queen Mary and restored to the temporalities on 13 April 1557 after taking an oath of fealty to the English crown. He later appears to have resisted the Reformation, hosting Jesuit nuncio David Wolf in 1562.

    Read the passage

    tlie lord deputy, stating that the see of Limerick being vacant, the pope was pleased, on the recommendation of her majesty, to prefer Hugh Lees, or Lashy, to that see, as by the bulls sent over would appear, and requiring the lord deputy, therefore, according to the laws and customs of the realm before the twentieth year of the reign of the late King Henry VIH., to restore to him all the temporalities of the bishopric, first requiring him to take his corporal oath of fealty, truth, and allegiance. He was restored on the 13th of April, 1557, having first taken such oath, which, as given by Ware, was as follows: — "I, Hugh, Bishop of Limerick, elected and consecrated, do acknowledge that I have and hold all the temporal possessions of the said bishopric from your hands, and from your successors. Kings of England, as in right of the crown of your Kingdom of Ireland, and to you and to your successors. Kings of England, faith will bear. So help me God and his holy Gospels". After the accession of Queen Elizabeth he attended her first parliament in 1560, in which the act of uniformity was passed, and the royal supremacy reenacted, but there is no evidence that he supported these acts or ever conformed: in fact, the evidence is the reverse, for in 1562 we find David Wolf, a native of Limerick, and Jesuit father, who had been appointed nuncio for Ireland, residing with him when he was desired to see "what bishoppes did their dewtles there, and what sees ware voyde". And Dr. Richard Creagh, Arclibishop of Armagh, states in his examination taken by Ousley, Recorder of London, March 17tli, 1564,-5,' that on going out of Ireland to Rome, he obtained from the nuncio forty crowns, and " from the Bysshoppe of Lymericke twelve markes". Previous to his departure Dr. Creagh had, by the directions of his diocesan, been engaged in denouncing " in public and private, in season and out of season, the oath of supremacy and attendance at the Protestant worship". Inasmuch, wrote the late Dr. Kelly {Rambler, May, 1853), as " the strong attachment of the citizens to the English crown, and the general ignorance regarding the precise nature of the changes introduced, endangered the fidelity of the peo})le".

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 334

    As the companion tells it

    As you come through Limerick, this is the city where Hugh Lacy, a canon of the De Lacy family, was made Bishop under Queen Mary. The see had fallen vacant, and on the recommendation of the Queen, the pope appointed him. On 13 April 1557, after taking a corporal oath of fealty, truth, and allegiance to the English crown, he was restored to all the temporalities of the bishopric. Ware gives his oath: "I, Hugh, Bishop of Limerick, elected and consecrated, do acknowledge that I have and hold all the temporal possessions of the said bishopric from your hands, and from your successors, Kings of England, as in right of the crown of your Kingdom of Ireland, and to you and to your successors, Kings of England, faith will bear. So help me God and his holy Gospels." When Queen Elizabeth came to the throne, Lacy attended her first parliament in 1560, where the act of uniformity was passed and the royal supremacy reenacted. But there is no evidence he supported these acts or ever conformed. The evidence runs the other way. In 1562, David Wolf, a native of Limerick and a Jesuit father appointed nuncio for Ireland, was residing with him. Wolf was to see what bishops did their duties and what sees were vacant. Dr. Richard Creagh, Archbishop of Armagh, stated in his examination taken by Ousley, Recorder of London, on 17 March 1564, that on going from Ireland to Rome he received forty crowns from the nuncio and twelve marks from the Bishop of Limerick. Before his departure, Creagh had been directed by his diocesan to denounce, in public and private, in season and out of season, the oath of supremacy and attendance at the Protestant worship. As the late Dr. Kelly wrote, the strong attachment of the citizens to the English crown and the general ignorance regarding the nature of the changes endangered the fidelity of the people.

36. Invaders burn Limerick and devastate the region

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1088

    In 1088 a combined northern and Connaught army invaded Munster, burning Limerick, devastating the country as far as Emly, Lough Gur, and Bruree, and besieging and demolishing Kincora. The head of O'Ruarc was also carried off from its place of exposure at Singland.

    Read the passage

    King Tiirlough was succeeded by his second son, Murtagh O^Brien, not undeservedly surnamed More, or the Great, as king of Thomond, and nominal king of Ireland, A.D. 1106. Of his two brothers, the eldest had died at Kincora, and the other, Dermott, having been banished into Connaught, Murtagh became the sole, but by no means the undisputed sovereign. The provincial kings joined Dermot, who was subsequently slain in Meath in his brother^s army, A.D. 1103, in a coalition against the king of Thomond, as pretender to the chief sovereignty of Ireland ; and another formidable opponent appeared in the person of Domnal M'Loughlin, chief of the Hy-Niells, who, having enforced homage from the king of Connaught, united that prince's forces to his own, and with the combined army invaded Munster. E-ory O'Connor's West Connaught men had defeated Murtagh's fleet, when attempting to dislodge them from their position on Innishayrcuch (Homed Island) in the Shannon, previously to the junction of the Northern forces with those of Connaught, and Murtagh now found himself unable to retahate with effect until the most terrible devastations had taken place in his dominions. The invaders burned Limerick, devastated the country as -far as Emly, Lough Gur, and Bruree, beseiged and demohshed Kincora, and carried off the head of O'Ruarc from the place of its exposure at Siugland.^ Murtagh, determined to strilce the first blow at the king of Connaught, dispatched a fleet in the following year, 1089, as far as Loughree, on the Shannon, and greatly to his discredit plundered the churches^ on the various islands, and along the shores of the lake, including those of Innisclothran, Innisboffin, and Innis-aingin. The Dalcassian troops were, however, intercepted in their retreat by the king of Connaught, who had occupied Inishapcuch and Kughra ; and being obliged to turn back to Athlone were encountered by Donald O'Melaghhn,* king of Meath, who gave them a safe conduct to Thomond, on condition of lea\dng behind their vessels. With these vessels the kings of Meath and Connaught immediately afterwards descended the Shannon, and once more invaded Thomond.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 20

    As the companion tells it

    As you travel through Limerick, you are passing through ground that saw one of the worst devastations of eleventh-century Ireland. In 1088, a combined army of the north and Connaught invaded Munster. Domnal M'Loughlin, chief of the Hy-Niells, had enforced homage from the king of Connaught and united that prince's forces with his own. Before the northern forces joined with Connaught, Rory O'Connor's West Connaught men had already defeated the fleet of Murtagh O'Brien, king of Thomond, attempting to dislodge them from their position on Innishayrcuch in the Shannon. Murtagh found himself unable to retaliate until terrible devastations had taken place. The invaders burned Limerick. They devastated the country as far as Emly, Lough Gur, and Bruree. They besieged and demolished Kincora. They carried off the head of O'Ruarc from the place of its exposure at Singland. Murtagh was determined to strike the first blow back at the king of Connaught. In the following year, 1089, he dispatched a fleet as far as Loughree on the Shannon. He plundered churches on the islands and along the shores of the lake, including Innisclothran, Innisboffin, and Innis-aingin. The Dalcassian troops were intercepted on their retreat by the king of Connaught, who had occupied Innishayrcuch and Loughra. Forced to turn back to Athlone, they were encountered by Donald O'Melaghlin, king of Meath, who gave them safe conduct to Thomond on condition of leaving behind their vessels. With those vessels, the kings of Meath and Connaught immediately descended the Shannon and invaded Thomond once more.

37. Irish victory over Dublin Danes at Thurles

    Thurles · town · Tipperary · 1174

    Donnell O'Brien led his Dalcassians towards Durlas O'Togarty (now Thurles), where they gained a complete victory. The Dublin Danes were attacked while overcome by sleep and slaughtered to the number of 400.

    Read the passage

    In the year 1174 the command of the forces was once more given to Harvey of Mount Maurice, who recommended Strongbow to join him in an expedition against Donnell O^Brien, who, following the example of Macarthy in Cork, had wrested the city of Limerick from the English intruders. Strongbow called to his assistance the Danes of Dubhn, and Eoderick O'Connor advanced into Ormond to repel him, Donnell O'Brien led his brave Dalcassians towards Durlas OTogarty (Ehogarty), now Thurles, where they gained a complete and signal victory. According to the Norman accounts, the Dublin Danes were attacked while overcome by sleep, and slaughtered, almost unresistingly, to the number of 400. Ware ascribes the glory of this result to Donnell O'Brien, king of Limerick, but he calculates that the loss of the English was not so considerable as that here given.

    This diasastrous defeat had such an effect upon Strongbow that he shut himself up at Waterford,^ whilst the Irish throughout the country rose up in arms.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 30

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Thurles, this is where the Irish won a complete victory in 1174. Donnell O'Brien had wrested Limerick from the English, and Harvey of Mount Maurice urged Strongbow to march against him. Strongbow called the Danes of Dublin to his assistance, and Eoderick O'Connor advanced into Ormond to repel him. Donnell O'Brien led his Dalcassians towards Durlas O'Togarty, where they gained a complete and signal victory. According to the Norman accounts, the Dublin Danes were attacked while overcome with sleep and slaughtered, almost unresistingly, to the number of 400. Ware ascribes the glory to Donnell O'Brien, king of Limerick, but calculates the English loss was not so considerable. This disastrous defeat had such an effect on Strongbow that he shut himself up at Waterford, whilst the Irish throughout the country rose up in arms.

38. John Cusack's tombstone at Clonlea cemetery broken and cast into lake

    Clonlea · townland · Clare

    John Cusack was buried in the little cemetery of Clonlea near Kilkishen, County Clare. After an Irish epitaph expressing his character was inscribed on his tombstone and then inverted by friends, caustic English lines appeared on the other side; the friends broke the flag and flung the pieces into a nearby lake.

    Read the passage

    ' Howard's Special Cases on the Laws to prevent the growth of Popery. 2 M'Graths of Clare, lost their extensive properties, comprising Derrymore, KilkisLcn, Clonroad, and a portion of Barren, by the perfidy of a person named John Cusack, who, so characteristic of the persecution and treachery of the times, made information, filed bills of discovery, and thereby became possessed of a certain portion of the property. Ue was interred in the little cemetery of Clonlea, near Kilkishen in the County of Clare, and even after death an incident occurred to mark his career. Tradition has it, that when od his tombstone was inscribed an Irish epitaph expressive of his character, his friends turned the flag ; however, on the inverted side there soon appeared the following caustic lines; — " God is pleased when man doth cease to sin. The devil is pleased when he a soul doth win. Mankind are pleased when e'er a villain dies. Now all are pleased, for here Jack Cusack lies." This being equally disagreeable to their feelings, they took up the flag at night and having broken it to pieces flung them into a lake near the place.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 171

39. John of Desmond's head spiked at Dublin Castle

    Dublin · city · Dublin

    After being quartered in Cork, John of Desmond's head was sent to Dublin as a token of victory and spiked in front of the Castle of Dublin. According to O'Daly, the killing was done by his own servant, Thomas Eleming.

    Read the passage

    The attacliment of the Irish peasantry to the Geraldines was not less remarkable than that of the Scotch to the Stewarts. Notwithstanding the great rewards offered for the capture of their leaders, no one was found so base as to betray them, and yet the gallant John of Desmond appears to have fallen a victim to the treachery of one of his followers, if we are to believe O^Daly, Hooker and Cox. The story is thus told in the Annals of the Four Masters : — John set out accompanied by four horsemen to the woods of Eatherlack/ to hold a conference with Barry More, with whom he had entered into a plundering confederacy. He proceeded southwards across the river Avonmore in the middle of a dark and misty night, and happened to be met face to face by Captain Sicutzy [the Irish for Zouch], with his forces, though neither of them was in search of the other.^ John was mortally wounded on the spot, and had not advanced the space of a mile beyond that place when he died. He was carried crosswise on his own steed from thence to Cork, and when brought to that town he was cut in quarters, and his head was sent to Dublin as a token of victory. According to O^Daly, a wretch of the name of Thomas Eleming, who had been his servant, was the person who killed him. He adds that his head was spiked in front of the Castle of Dublin, and his body was hung in chains at one of the gates of the city of Cork, where it remained for three years, untU on a tempestuous night it was blown into the sea.' His kinsman James was hanged soon after, together with his two sons, but Lord Barry made his peace with the government.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 64

40. Kilmallock burned and plundered by Fitzmaurice, 1572

    Kilmallock · town · Limerick · 1572

    James Fitzmaurice of Desmond burned and plundered Kilmallock on 4th of March, executing the sovereign and several townsmen. He subsequently submitted to Sir John Perrott at Kilmallock Church, lying prostrate at the President's feet with a sword point at his heart.

    Read the passage

    Sir John Perrott, who in 1572, had been appointed Lord President of Munster, had so effectually proceeded in the interest of Elizabeth, that James Eitzmaurice, of Desmond, was compelled to submit to him at KHmalloch, which town on 4th of March before he had burned and plundered, having executed the sovereign and several of the townsmen, Fitzmaurice

    ' Cox's Hibernia Anglicana, Vol i., p. 330.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 59

41. Legend of the Bishop of Limerick's miraculous crozier and mitre

    Dublin · city · Dublin

    A legend held that when the Bishop of Limerick attended a synod in Dublin without his pontificals, a youth just landed from a ship at the harbour presented him with a crozier and mitre. When the bishop sent a messenger to pay, the ship had weighed anchor and vanished beyond the horizon. The mitre was later entrusted to a Catholic merchant who committed sacrilege by replacing precious stones with false ones.

    Read the passage

    On the same authority we learn that in 1623 Kichard Arthur succeeded in the episcopacy : he was a native of Limerick, and one of the family of which we have already written so much in the course of this work. He was consecrated by David Rothe, Bishop of Ossory, on the 7th of September in that year, the Bishop of Cork and the Abbot of Holy Cross, Luke Archer, assisting at the ceremony. He received the Papal Nuncio, Rinuccini, in his cathedral of St. Mary's, again restored to its ancient possessors, on the oOth of October, 1(545, the clergy and the municipal and military authorities, in solemn procession having accompanied Rinuccini from St. John's Gate to the cathedral. Dr. Meehan^ states that even the Nuncio could not but admire the splendid crozier and mitre which Dr. Arthur used in the solemn function of receiving the Pope's ambassador on the threshold of his metropolitan church. These were believed indeed by some to be the work of some celestial artificer, and not of mortal hands, the legend running that on one occasion when there was a synod of prelates in Dublin, it so happened that the Bishop of Limerick went thither without his pontificals, and was thus compelled to seek throughout the metropolis a crozier and mitre. At length, having given up all hopes of obtaining them, a youth just landed from a ship, which a few minutes before had entered the harbour, approached and presented the bishop a case in which he told him that he would find the articles he sought for, and that if he liked he might keep them. When he sent a messenger in haste after the stranger to pay for the precious objects, the ship had weighed anchor and vanished beyond the horizon ! The mitre, it is further added, was entrusted to a wealthy Catholic merchant to keep it from falling into the hands of the reformers, but he abstracted some of its precious stones and replaced them with false ones, a sacrilege which heaven avenged on

    * Lives of ih<i Archbishops of Dublin. ^ Irish Hierarchy in the seventeenth centunj.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 337

42. Limerick Cathedral alienated from founders' creed

    Limerick · city · Limerick

    The cathedral of Limerick, founded by one of the royal O'Briens and reedified under Protestant hands with the assistance of a descendant of that house, has been alienated from the professors of the ancient creed of its founders for 230 years. Many of its ancient characteristics have been lost under various additions to assimilate it to Anglican churches.

    Read the passage

    We have now given in detail the results of much careful inquiry respecting the venerable cathedral of Limerick, whose fortunes have been so diversified from the time of its foundation by one of the royal O'Briens, to he date of its reedification under Protestant hands, and with the assistance and direction of a descendant of that kingly liouse. For two hundred and thirty years, with very short intervals, it has been alienated from the professors of the ancient creed of its founders ; and under the various additions which have been made to assimilate it more closely to Anglican churches, many, if not most, of its ancient characteristics have been lost.

    ' It was Bishop Knox who first discovered the powers of the famous vocalist, Miss Catherino Hayes, who owed to him her musical education.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 351

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Limerick, there is a venerable cathedral in this city whose fortunes have shifted greatly over the centuries. It was founded by one of the royal O'Briens, and later reedified under Protestant hands, with the assistance and direction of a descendant of that same kingly house. For 230 years, with very short intervals, it has been alienated from the professors of the ancient creed of its founders. Under the various additions made to assimilate it more closely to Anglican churches, many, if not most, of its ancient characteristics have been lost.

43. Lord Leonard Grey imposes Act of Supremacy oaths in Limerick

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1537

    On 28 June 1537, Lord Deputy Leonard Grey arrived in Limerick and stayed a week. He compelled the Mayor and Corporation members to swear the oath of supremacy and renounce the Pope's authority, and ordered the entire commonalty of the city to be similarly sworn.

    Read the passage

    On the 28th of June, 1537, Lord Leonard Grey arrived in Limerick, where he remained a week, and of his doings here he gives a detailed account to his royal master. He had already received the submission of O'Carroll of Ely, of O'Kennedy of Ormond, of Maclbrien of Arra, of O'jMulryan of Owney, as well as of MacWilliam of Clanrickarde. He summoned the Mayor and his " brothern" before him, and acting in the spirit of the instructions which he had received from the Councd of" Dublin, he had the Mayor and members of the Corporation sworn, according to the tenor of the act of suj)remacy, and further to abjm-e the power of the Poj)e. He moreover commanded the Mayor to have all the commonalty of the city likewise sworn and to certify the fact to the Court of Chancery. He states that " without stopp or gruge the confirmed them sylves.'''' After this he adds, he called before him the Bishop of Limerick, not Bishop William Casey, who was, after apostatising, appointed Bishop of Limerick, but John Coyn^ or Quin, and had him sworn in like manner, a fact which appears the more singular, and of which very grave doubt exists, because Quin had been promoted to the see against the wishes of King Hemy, who laboured earnestly in favor of Walter WaUesley who was afterwards appointed to Kildare.2 Coyn or Quin had assisted at a synod which was held in Limerick by Edmund Butler, Archbishop of Cashel, in 1524, and his zeal for the interests of his religion had been manifested on various important occasions. Gray further states that he commanded him to have all his clergy sworn. On this occasion Connor O'Brien, Prince of Thomond, was present, and promised to serve against Morrough, the Tanist^ who owned the country around O'Brien's

    > State papers. 2 Ware's Bishops.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 49

44. Mont de Piété charitable pawn office in Limerick

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1837–1847

    Sir Matthew Barrington built a Mont de Piété or charitable pawn office in Limerick in 1837, providing loans at moderate interest to humbler classes. It ceased operating as such in 1845 and was converted into a police barrack in November 1847, known as George's Quay Police Barrack.

    Read the passage

    In seasons of severe epidemic, as at the outbreak of the cholera morbus in 1832, thehospital was of iucalculablebenefitto the citizens, as ithas been also in all cases of accidents, whenever immediate relief is demanded by the sufferer. It is supplied with a large board room in which there is a well painted portraitofthefounder,snrroundedby his sons,projectingthe charity. The Board Boom is furnished with surgical apparatus, a library for medical reference, and a remarkably well-executed picture of the Barrington family, founders of the Hospital, which was painted by Cregan, President of the Royal Hibernian Academy, There are two other pictures in the Hospital, one of the Good Samaritan, and the other, of Christ healing the Sick, which were painted by John Murphy, a young Limerick artist, and protegee of Sir Matthew Barrington, in London. It would be a great pity that so deservingan institution should decay orfail from want of spirited support. In addition to the hospital, the late Sir Matthew Barrington projected, and in 1837, built a Mont de Pi^te or charitable Pawn office, which while it existed gave relief by way of loan or pledge at a very moderate rate of interest. The Mont de Plete which was founded on the plan of those of the same name in Italy, France, Belgium, &c., has ceased since 1845, to have an existence as such; it is built in close proximity to the hospital, and is an object of architectural ornament to the city. Since 1847 it has been converted into a police barrack. Sir Matthew Barrington's intention in building the Mont de Piete was that the profits which he anticipated would arise from it, should be allocated to the exigencies of the hospital, which even in its incipiency did not meet with the support which it merited. He placed an active manager over the Montde Piete, but though debentures varying from £5 to £500, bearing interest at the rate of six per cent, were freely taken, by which its capital was created, it did not realise the sanguine expectations of its benevolent and enterprising founder. From 1837 to 1840, the gross profit was £3940 10s. 2|d. The total number of pledges received since the openingof the establishment up to March 19th, 1841,was4G0,S95; the amount lent on pledges in four years above stated was £78,595 9s. OJd. — theamount received forreleasedarticles,£71,0058s.7d. Sir MatthewBarrington had another design in establishingthis institution, namely that the humblerclasses whohave been in the habitoffrequentingpawn offices should not pay the higher rate of interest on loans which are charged in private establishments. In the palmiest days, however, of the Mont de Piete there ^ Now and since November, 1847, George's Quay Police Barrack.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 273

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Limerick, you are travelling the city where Sir Matthew Barrington built a Mont de Piété, a charitable pawn office, in 1837. He founded it on the plan of institutions of the same name in Italy, France, and Belgium. It stood in close proximity to the hospital and was an architectural ornament to the city. Barrington's intention was that the profits from it should go to the needs of the hospital, which even in its early days did not receive the support it deserved. He also wanted the humbler classes, who had been in the habit of frequenting pawn offices, not to pay the higher rates of interest on loans that private establishments charged. He placed an active manager over the Mont de Piété. Debentures varying from £5 to £500, bearing interest at six per cent, were freely taken to create its capital. From 1837 to 1840, the gross profit was £3940, 10 shillings, and 2 pence. The total number of pledges received from the opening up to March 19, 1841, was 460,895. The amount lent on pledges in those four years was £78,595, 9 shillings, and a halfpenny. The amount received for released articles was £71,005, 8 shillings, and 7 pence. But it did not realise the expectations of its benevolent and enterprising founder. It ceased to exist as a charitable pawn office in 1845. Since November 1847, it has been George's Quay Police Barrack.

45. M'Swiney sentenced to 600 lashes at Main Guard, Limerick

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1798

    Michael M'Swiney, charged with being a serjeant in the United Irishmen, was sentenced to 600 lashes. After receiving 100 at the Main Guard, he requested to be taken down and promised to make useful disclosures, whereupon the remainder of his sentence was remitted.

    Read the passage

    June G. Michael M'Swiney, charged with being a serjeant in the United Irishmen, was sentenced to GOO lashes. After having received 100 at the Main Guard, he requested to be taken down, promising to make some useful disclosures, whereupon the remainder of his sentence was remitted.

    Matthew Kennedy, charged with taking arms from the house of John Evans, of Ashroe, was executed on the new bridge, and his body buried in the yard of the intended new jail.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 235

    As the companion tells it

    In 1798, Limerick saw this. Michael M'Swiney, charged with being a serjeant in the United Irishmen, was sentenced to 600 lashes. He received 100 at the Main Guard. Then he asked to be taken down, promising to make useful disclosures. The remainder of his sentence was remitted. Matthew Kennedy, charged with taking arms from the house of John Evans of Ashroe, was executed on the new bridge, and his body buried in the yard of the intended new jail.

46. Municipal Reform procession burns coffin of old Corporation, Rutland Street

    Rutland Street · street · Limerick · 1841

    On 10 August 1841, the Lord Lieutenant proclaimed Limerick under the Municipal Reform Act. A vast procession paraded through the city bearing a coffin symbolizing the old Corporation, halted opposite the Tory newspaper office in Rutland Street, and burned the coffin amid rejoicing crowds.

    Read the passage

    Corporate reform was now an accomplished fact. On the 10th of August, 1841, a proclamation was issued by the Lord Lieutenant,' in which Limerick was declared within the operation of the Municipal Reform Act. Unbounded joy prevailed when the glad tidings were diffused throughout the city. On the evening of that glorious and welcome day, a procession of unparalleled magnitude went through the city, following as it were the remains of the old Corporation, which were borne on a funeral car in a coffin of enormous magnitude; bands of music playing the funeral march accompanied the procession, with a vast array of mourners. The cortege passed along, amid myriads of people, through the principal streets, until its arrival opposite the office in Rutland Street, of the tory newspaper which had so long upheld the reign of corporate monopoly and spoliation. Here the procession halted; the coffin was brought from its car, laid on the pavement, and with loud shouts of exultation, consigned to the flames.

    Proceedings were at once adopted to place the city under the operation of the new Act. Aldermen and Town Councillors were elected. On the 11th of November, the newly-constituted body assembled to elect a Mayor; two candidates for the honour presented themselves, viz.. Alderman John Boyse and Martin Honan, Esq. The former withdrew, when the latter was elected by acclamation to an office which he filled with dignity, prudence, and justice. John F. Raleigh, Esq., was elected Town Clerk in open court. There were two other candidates for the office.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 284

    As the companion tells it

    Along this street in Limerick, on the evening of the 10th of August 1841, a vast procession halted and burned a coffin. That morning the Lord Lieutenant had issued a proclamation declaring Limerick within the operation of the Municipal Reform Act. The news spread through the city and unbounded joy prevailed. That evening a procession of unparalleled magnitude went through the city, following as it were the remains of the old Corporation, borne on a funeral car in a coffin of enormous magnitude. Bands of music played the funeral march, and a vast array of mourners accompanied it. The cortege passed through the principal streets amid myriads of people until it arrived opposite the office in Rutland Street of the Tory newspaper, which had so long upheld the reign of corporate monopoly and spoliation. There the procession halted. The coffin was brought from its car, laid on the pavement, and with loud shouts of exultation, consigned to the flames. Proceedings were then adopted to place the city under the new Act. Aldermen and Town Councillors were elected. On the 11th of November the newly constituted body assembled to elect a Mayor. Two candidates presented themselves, Alderman John Boyse and Martin Honan. Boyse withdrew, and Honan was elected by acclamation, an office he filled with dignity, prudence, and justice. John F. Raleigh was elected Town Clerk in open court, where there had been two other candidates.

47. Newtown-Pery raises Limerick to third city

    Newtown Pery · population centre · Limerick · 1783–1793

    The building of Newtown-Pery transformed Limerick into the third city of Ireland, part of extensive improvements between 1783 and 1793 that completely changed the city's external appearance.

    Read the passage

    Important events took place in the City of Limerick during the days of the Earl of Clare, which also -witnessed some of the most momentous occurrences in the History of Ireland, including the period from the time of the volunteers to that of 1798 and the Union ; a brief but happy and exceptional interval in our history, which has frequently been referred to with just pride as exhibiting a progress and prosperity unexampled in any other country. In the ten years which intervened between the embodunent of the volunteers and the Irish militia, that is, from 1783 to 1793, the external appearance of the city was completely changed by the improvements to which we have already referred ; while the internal Government was seriously modified by the exemption of jthe new streets from the jurisdiction of the Corporation ; by the changes which took place in the parliamentary representations, and lastly, by the restoration of Catholics to the elective franchise. Election riots preceded and followed the visit paid to the city by the Duke of Eutland, then Lord Lieutenant, who was as much pleased at his reception as the late Earl of Carlisle in our own day. The building of Newtown-Pery raised Limerick to the position of the thii-d city of Irelancl, and the change of the representatives was followed by the embodiment of the yeomanry corps in city and county.

    Coach from this city to Dublin stopped near Kildare, and destroyed. General Duff endeavouring to open communication -with the metropolis.*

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 228

    As the companion tells it

    Coming up now is Newtown Pery, the district whose building raised Limerick to the third city of Ireland. This happened during the days of the Earl of Clare, a period that has been referred to with just pride as exhibiting progress and prosperity unexampled in any other country. Between 1783 and 1793, from the embodiment of the volunteers to the Irish militia, the external appearance of the city was completely changed by these improvements. The internal government was seriously modified too. The new streets were exempted from the jurisdiction of the Corporation. Changes took place in the parliamentary representations. Catholics were restored to the elective franchise. Election riots preceded and followed a visit paid to the city by the Duke of Rutland, then Lord Lieutenant, who was as much pleased at his reception as the late Earl of Carlisle. The change of the representatives was followed by the embodiment of the yeomanry corps in city and county. A coach from this city to Dublin was stopped near Kildare and destroyed. General Duff was endeavouring to open communication with the metropolis.

48. Nightly insurgents terrorise Limerick County and Liberties

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1815

    In September 1815 the County and Liberties of the City of Limerick had been long disturbed by nightly insurgents who robbed, flogged, and deprived of their arms many peaceable inhabitants. The garrison regiments marched under arms to their places of worship.

    Read the passage

    The state of the country this year and the following year was deplorable in the extreme : the people were in the greatest distress and misery, and crime consequently prevailed to a lamentable extent. In September, 1815, the several regiments that composed the garrison of Limerick marched under arms to their different places of worship : the County and Liberties of the City had been for a long time disturbed by nightly insurgents, who robbed, flogged, and deprived of their arms, many of the peaceable inhabitants. On the 26tli of the month, an extraordinary Sessions of the Peace was held, and the Magistrates of the County assembled by public advertisement. The County

    ' In more recent years, a mutiny absolutely took place in the North Tipperary Regiment of militia in Nenagh, on the disembodiment of that regiment, when the men were refused their clothes, through a miserable economy also. On this occasion the mutiny was quelled by Major-General Chatterton, Commander of the Limerick Garrison.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 247

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Limerick, this is a city that in September 1815 was in a deplorable state. The people were in the greatest distress and misery, and crime prevailed to a lamentable extent. The County and Liberties of the City of Limerick had for a long time been disturbed by nightly insurgents, who robbed, flogged, and deprived of their arms many of the peaceable inhabitants. The several regiments that composed the garrison of Limerick marched under arms to their different places of worship. On the 26th of the month, an extraordinary Sessions of the Peace was held, and the Magistrates of the County assembled by public advertisement. The state of the country this year and the following year was deplorable in the extreme.

49. O'Brien raises siege of Limerick, entrenches near Cashel

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1175–1176

    O'Brien, king of Thomond, raised the siege of Limerick and strongly entrenched himself near Cashel. Raymond was sent to dislodge him, aided by the chiefs of Ossory and Kinsale and the valour of Meyler Fitzhenry, and obtained a victory.

    Read the passage

    liis command, and ordered him to proceed to Cashel, near whicli city O^Brien, raising the siege of Limerick, had strongly entrenched himself. On this occasion Raymond was, we regret to say, aided by the chiefs of Ossoiy and Kinsale, to whose exhortations, as well as to the impetuous valour of Meyler Fitzhenry, Raymond was greatly indebted for the Adctory which he obtained. The period of Irish subjugation was now not long deferred — though the jurisdiction of the English can hardly be said to have extended beyond the limits of the pale until the reign of James I. The brave king of Thomond was now obKged to ask for peace, and the Irish monarch Roderick, finding it impossible to make head against his enemies, had at last determined to send an embassy to England to make as good terms for hunseK as he could. ^

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 29

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Limerick, this is where O'Brien, king of Thomond, raised the siege of the city and entrenched himself near Cashel. That was around 1175. Raymond was sent to dislodge him. He was aided by the chiefs of Ossory and Kinsale, and by what the old book calls the impetuous valour of Meyler Fitzhenry. Raymond owed his victory to them. After that, the king of Thomond was obliged to ask for peace. The Irish monarch Roderick, finding it impossible to make head against his enemies, determined to send an embassy to England to make as good terms for himself as he could. The period of Irish subjugation was not long deferred after this, though English jurisdiction hardly extended beyond the limits of the Pale until the reign of James I.

50. O'Brien's military movements near Limerick, 1535

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1535

    During the 1535 campaign, O'Brien came down and lay within three miles of Limerick with a great host, felling woods along the route and abandoning two castles near Limerick before retreating to the mountains for fear of ordnance. He later re-garrisoned his castels once he learned the English had no ordnance.

    Read the passage

    Ap. Pariy, who had been in the service of Lord Leonard Gray, writes in 1535, respecting his jom-ney from Cork to Limerick, to secretary Cromwell, after he had visited Callan, Clonmel, &c., stating that they had removed from Cork to Mallow, and there encamped by a river side, and on the following day went to KilmaUock, and lay there that night — he describes it as a very "poore towne;" and the next day came to Limerick, "and of treuthe O'Breyn was cum downe, and lay within three myl of Lemeryk, and as the saying was with a great ost ; and hurlyd down the wodes in this way, as we schold have gone into hys counterey, and had forsakyu two of hys castels, herd by Lemeryk ; and herd that we were so ny, he went into the mountayns from us, for fere of ordynance : and when that he herd tell that we had no ordynance, then he restored his men into hys castels agajoi, with such ordynance as he had of his own. And without ordynance to bett the one pyll we cowld never enter weU into hys cunterey. Therefore my Lorde Jamys thought best to recoyll bake agayn, and to bring the Desemontes, and Cormack Oge with his cumpany, to a say, ore that hee wold pase eny further.'''' He adds, that in Limerick they had " very good cher, but nat nothing lyke the cher we had in Corke.''^ They parted eight miles off to a place (Monasternenagh) , "the wyche is after the order of Grenwyche," and my Lorde of Kyldare was the founder of it, for he hath a castel and

    ' State Papers of Henry VIII,

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 47

51. O'Connell snubbed by judge's presence at Exchange banquet

    Mary Street · street · Limerick · 1845

    O'Connell, passing through Limerick on his way to Derrynane, accepted the mayor's dinner invitation to meet the Corporation at the Exchange in Mary Street. Learning that a judge who had tried and sentenced him was also invited, O'Connell left the city at once, triggering a contentious Corporation meeting and resolutions.

    Read the passage

    An incident of a remarkable character took place in the summer of this year, when O'Connell, who arrived in Limerick on his way to Derrynane, accompanied by his friend, " honest Tom Steele", and others, was waited on by the mayor, who soHcited the honour of his company at dinner to meet the Corporation. O'Connell accepted the invitation ; but an awkwardness arose which led to unpleasant results: the judges at the moment on circuit being in the city, they too were invited to the mayor's banquet, which was given in the Exchange in Mary Street. One of these judges had not only tried O'Connell and the State Prisoners, but had pronounced sentence of incarceration on the Liberator. When the facts were told to O'Connell, he at once left the city, with an intimation to the mayor that it was impossible for

    504 HISTOTIY OF LIMEEICK.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 288

    As the companion tells it

    Along this street is the Exchange, where a remarkable incident took place in the summer of 1845. O'Connell arrived in Limerick on his way to Derrynane, accompanied by his friend, "honest Tom Steele", and others. The mayor waited on him and sought the honour of his company at dinner to meet the Corporation. O'Connell accepted. But an awkwardness arose. The judges on circuit were in the city, and they too were invited to the mayor's banquet. One of these judges had not only tried O'Connell and the State Prisoners but had pronounced sentence of incarceration on the Liberator. When the facts were told to O'Connell, he at once left the city.

52. O'Donnell burns Ennis and ravages County Clare

    Ennis · town · Clare · 1599

    O'Donnell led a second raid into County Clare, burning the entire country from the Galway border to the Atlantic on a single Sunday. Ennis was burned and the spoils sent to Tirconnell, with some Ulster followers settling in Clare and founding families.

    Read the passage

    '\\Tiile the Earl of Thomond was occupied against the followers of the Sugane Earl, O^Donnell paid a second visit to the county Clare, Avhere, according to the Four Masters, his soldiers burned the whole of the country, on one Sunday, from the borders of Galway on the north-east, to the Atlantic ocean. After burning Ennis, and ravaging the territories of his enemy, O'Donnell dispatched the abundant spoils which he had taken to Tirconnell, and proceeded next to ravage the territory of another of his enemies, the

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 70

53. Old Limerick Theatre and celebrated actors

    Limerick · city · Limerick

    A celebrated theatre stood in Limerick with its box entrance in Cornwallis-street and pit passage at the corner of Play House Lane. Famous actors including Garrick, Mossop, Barry, Kemble, Mrs. Siddons, and others performed there, and amateurs played in support of public charities.

    Read the passage

    2 This was a celebrated theatre in its time. The box entrance was in the street now called Cornwallis-street, and the pit passage was at the corner of Play House Lane. Mr. Edward Gubbins, a coach builder, occupied the front of the theatre as a workshop and showroom for carriages. For a long time, the liolders of box tickets were obliged to go through Mr. Gubbins' kitchen, to their places in the boxes. Celebrated actors, viz., Garrick, Mossop, Barry, Ryder, &c., all acted in the old theatre. More recently George Frederick Cooke, Kemble, Macklin, Mrs. Siddons, Miss Farren (afterwards the Countess of Derby) acted here also ; and in comic operas, Mrs. Billington, Miss Brett, and Mrs. Creswell frequently appeared in Love in a Villafje — Miss Stephens, the vocalist, at a later period, also sung here to crowded houses. Ned Williams, Richard Jones, Johnson, and others who are satirized by Wilson Croker in his Familiar Epistles to Edward Jones, Esq., were also actors in this theatre, the successive managers of which, were Mr. Heaphy, Mr. Richard Daly, an excellent light comedy actor, and Mr. Frederick Edward Jones. The amateurs also plaj'ed in this theatre, and drew crowded houses — among them were Sir Mathew, (then Mr. Mathew) Harrington, Mr. John M'Auliff, Mr. Pierce Brett, Mr, George Hogan, Mr. Thomas Gromwell, Mr. Hewett, Mr. Andrew Tracy, Mr. John Gubbins, Mr. William Glover, &c. The three last mentioned are alive in 1864. The amateurs played in support of the public charities, particularly the House of Industry, and the receipts were considerable. Near the theatre was the principal hotel of Limerick, which was a well conducted establishment, and in this hotel (the house though dilapidated is still in existence, about the lower part of Cornwallis-street, and is recognisable by its stone-front and flight of steps), Mrs. Siddons is said to have lodged during her visit to Limerick. The other leading actors generally lodged in the house of a Mr. Williams in the same street. It was from this theatre that George Frederick Cooke, the celebrated comedian, went out one night, his head full of the fumes of a little keg of whiskev to which he had been paying attention, and arrayed in the broad-brimmed hat and whimsical dress of Pelriichio, which character he had been playing, stumbled into the house of some poor people, from which the wail of woe was dolefully issuing, chaunting as the inmates were in full chorus over a dead body. Plunging sword in hand into the midst of the group, Cooke advanced towards the bed, on which the corpse of an old woman lay, and suiting the action to the word — exclaimed,

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 205

54. Perjured witness Maume used in Cork military prosecutions

    Cork · city · Cork · 1798–1799

    William Maume, a convicted perjurer sentenced to transportation to Botany Bay, was employed by government to give evidence at Cork against persons under military prosecutions in 1798. He was seen walking Cork's streets before being arrested and confined to barracks after advertising his intention to publish details of the trial.

    Read the passage

    Maurae for perjury, that he might be in possession of formal and authentic documents to clear and justify his own character. Mr. Cooke and Mr. Taylor, the under secretaries, as well as Lord Castlereagh, threw every difficulty in his way. The evidence of Maume they alleged was notoriously known to be false. He was already sentenced to Botany baj' for life, and the necessary delay of prosecuting Maume in a civil court would break in upon Mr. Arthur's wishes to go to England. Government did not, however, scruple in the intermediate time to employ this perjured miscreant to give evidence at Cork against some persons there under military prosecutions. Mr. Arthur was still naturally anxious for every justificative document that he could procure. He pressed to have copies of his excellency's different orders for respiting the sentence of the Court Martial, liberating him, and repaying the fine. He was assured, that all these orders had been verbal ! ! ! and that his excellency could do nothing more for him. Mr. Cooke, to put an end to Mr. Arthur's further importunity, wrote him the following letter on the 10th of October, 1798.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 234

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Cork, this city holds a story from 1798. A man named William Maume had been convicted of perjury and sentenced to transportation to Botany Bay for life. Yet the government did not scruple to employ this same perjured man to give evidence at Cork against persons there under military prosecutions. Lord Castlereagh and the under secretaries, Mr. Cooke and Mr. Taylor, knew Maume's evidence was notoriously false, but used him anyway. A man called Mr. Arthur wanted formal documents to clear and justify his own character. Cooke and Taylor and Castlereagh threw every difficulty in his way. Arthur pressed for copies of orders that had respited his sentence by court martial, liberated him, and repaid his fine. He was told that all these orders had been verbal, and that his excellency could do nothing more for him. On the 10th of October 1798, Mr. Cooke wrote Arthur a letter to put an end to his importunity. Before that, Maume had been seen walking Cork's streets openly, until he advertised his intention to publish details of the trial, after which he was arrested and confined to barracks.

55. Post-Waterloo economic collapse hits Limerick

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1815

    Following the peace after Waterloo in 1815, the country fell into severe misery. Bankruptcies were rife in Limerick city and county, with farmers, landlords, shopkeepers and merchants all falling. Of the several banks in the city, only the private bank of Messrs. Thomas and William Roche survived, paying every penny to note-holders.

    Read the passage

    scrupulous factiou. A Protestant, Mr. Spring Rice carried with him his iuflueutial connexions and friends of that persuasion. Early in 1815, he wrote a pamphlet, in wliich he vehemently denounced the Grand Jury Laws. The Corporation had become rank in the nostrils of all classes, and every man washed to see an end to its ignominious reign of audacity and spoliation. Mr. Tuthill had fought the good fight, but was defeated by a combination of the most discordant elements. A great blow to the interests of all parties was struck at the declaration of peace, after the battle of Waterloo ; and as history repeats itself, we have to record the fact, that in the years following 1815 the country fell from comparative prosperity to the very abyss of misery and woe ; bankruptcies in country and town were rife ; farmers and landlords, shopkeepers and merchants, brokers and money-changers, all fell in promiscuous ruin ; and no where was the visitation more severely experienced than in the city and county of Limerick. Of the several banks in the city, the bank of Messrs. Thomas and WilHam Eoche, was the only private bank that withstood the shock and braved the storm in Limerick. To the everlasting honour of the Roches be it said, they paid every penny to every holder of their notes ; and, whilst others succumbed beneath an unexampled and unforeseen pressure, they kept their credit and proved that confidence was well placed in their honor.

    At this time, Mr. Thomas Grady, of Belmont, wooed the Muses in the shape of an Ode to Peace, a remarkable production; and just when the country was convulsed by a social revolution, resulting from a sudden fall in prices, and its heart-breaking effects on society, the poet manifested a spirit capable of feeling for the miseries of the people, however bitter and unscrupulous his satire was against Mr. Bruce.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 254

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Limerick city, you are travelling through a place that in 1815 was struck down almost overnight. The battle of Waterloo brought peace, and peace brought catastrophe. In the years that followed, the country fell from what the source calls comparative prosperity into what it calls the very abyss of misery and woe. Bankruptcies were rife across town and country alike. Farmers and landlords, shopkeepers and merchants, brokers and money-changers all fell together in what the passage describes as promiscuous ruin. And nowhere, it says, was the visitation more severely felt than in the city and county of Limerick. Several banks stood in the city, and nearly every one collapsed under the pressure. The one exception was the private bank of Messrs. Thomas and William Roche. They alone withstood the shock. The passage gives them this: they paid every penny to every holder of their notes. While others went under beneath what it calls an unexampled and unforeseen pressure, the Roches kept their credit intact. The wider context was bitter. Early in 1815, a Protestant pamphleteer, Mr. Spring Rice, had denounced the Grand Jury Laws, and the Corporation had become, in the words of the source, rank in the nostrils of all classes. Mr. Tuthill had fought against it but was defeated. Then peace came, prices fell suddenly, and a social revolution convulsed the country. In the midst of it, a man named Thomas Grady of Belmont wrote an Ode to Peace, showing, the passage says, a spirit capable of feeling for the miseries of the people.

56. Pregnant woman dies in Father Mathew pledge rush

    Mallow Street · street · Limerick · 1839

    During the overwhelming rush of people at Mr. Dunbar's house in Mallow Street to see Father Mathew, a pregnant poor woman was thrown into the area when the rails gave way. She died from chest injuries sustained in the incident.

    Read the passage

    Sunday the 3rd of December, 1839, was rendered for ever memorable in the city by the arrival of the Apostle of Temperance, and the greatest excess which popular enthusiasm ever reached in this country has hardly ever exceeded the curiosity and intense admiration manifested by the people towards him, from his arrival to his departure. On Friday and Saturday streams of people flowed in from all directions to get themselves enrolled beneath the Temperance Banner, and on those days there could not have been less than 5000 in the city without the luxury of a bed — the lodging houses being crammed to excess. As it was known that the Eev. Gentleman was to arrive by the mail from Cork, the concourse flowed in that direction. His friends had a car in waiting for him, but still he was obhged to show himself to the crowds, and then proceeded to the residence of his brother-in-law Mr. Dunbar, in Mallow- street. Sunday was peculiary fijie, and never a morning broke on a more glorious scene than Limerick presented. The entire length of George's-street was a mass of beings at an early hour. The quays and bridges were thickly peopled, yet the utmost order prevailed. At the sermon vast crowds assisted, the Church being crowded to excess ; Col. Maunsell, and Capt. Fitzgerald, and many liberal Protestants were present, were present. Half-past two was the hour for the sermon. When the Eev. Gentleman appeared he was a little flushed, but recovered his selfpossession. He read the text of the day — asked the congregation whether the practice of charity was not the true road to blessedness in heaven. The drift of his discourse which continued nearly an hour, was in advocacy of a collection for the Convent Schools. The givmg of pledges was begun at the Court House on Monday. The rush at Mr. Dunbar's house was fearful, and one pregnant poor woman was precipitated into the area, by the falling in of the rails. She died from the injuries inflicted on her chest. About nine o^'clock Father Mathew proceeded to the Court House, and received pledges till three o'clock. At least 10,000 people knelt down in Mallow- street, and received the pledge. He then proceeded to the Steam boat quay, and administered it to 700 men from Kilrush, not allowing them to disembark. The concourse in fact was now so great in the city, that the prices of provisions rose greatly. He continued to receive people from the four adjoining counties on Tuesday. He now became so hoarse, that the Eev. Gentlemen with him had to call out the words of the pledge. He left for Cork on Wednesday.*

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 283

    As the companion tells it

    Along this street, Mallow Street, in December 1839, a pregnant woman died in a crush of people who had come to take the temperance pledge from Father Mathew. He arrived on Sunday the 3rd of December 1839 by mail from Cork. The crowds were so great that on Friday and Saturday before, there were at least 5000 people in the city without a bed. He went first to the residence of his brother-in-law, Mr. Dunbar, here on this street. Sunday morning broke fine. George's-street was a mass of beings at an early hour. The quays and bridges were thickly peopled, yet the utmost order prevailed. At half-past two he gave the sermon. The Church was crowded to excess. Colonel Maunsell and Captain Fitzgerald and many liberal Protestants were present. He read the text of the day and asked the congregation whether the practice of charity was not the true road to blessedness in heaven. His discourse continued nearly an hour, in advocacy of a collection for the Convent Schools. The giving of pledges began at the Court House on Monday. The rush at Mr. Dunbar's house was fearful. A pregnant poor woman was precipitated into the area by the falling in of the rails. She died from the injuries inflicted on her chest. About nine o'clock Father Mathew proceeded to the Court House and received pledges till three o'clock. At least 10,000 people knelt down on this street and received the pledge. He then went to the Steam boat quay and administered it to 700 men from Kilrush, not allowing them to disembark. The concourse was so great that the prices of provisions rose greatly. He continued to receive people from the four adjoining counties on Tuesday and became so hoarse that the gentlemen with him had to call out the words of the pledge. He left for Cork on Wednesday.

57. Romantic tradition of Carrigaholt passing from MacMahon to O'Brien

    near Carrigaholt · townland · Clare

    A romantic story recounts how Carrigaholt and West Corcovaskin passed from the MacMahon family to Henry O'Brien of Trummera Castle. O'Brien visited Carrigaholt to remonstrate with Teigh Keugh MacMahon, fell in love with MacMahon's daughter, and neglected a prearranged warning signal—a black handkerchief on the northern pinnacle of the castle—leading to an attack, MacMahon's outlawry, and the grant of the estate to O'Brien by Queen Elizabeth.

    Read the passage

    family till the reign of Queen Elizabeth. A romantic storj' is told of the manner in -which the property went into the possession of Henry O'Brien of Trummera Castle, Co. Clare, the ancestor of Daniel O'Brien, Lord Clare. Henry O'Brien, having proceeded to Carrigaholt, to remonstrate •with Teigh Keugh MacMahon, against certain outrages, the families being always on bad terms, •was struck with the beauty of MacMahon's daughter, who, in the absence of her father at the opposite side of the Shannon, received O'Brien, when a mutual attachment arose between them. On the return of MacMahon, he treacherously fell on O'Brien and his servants ; one of whom was killed. O'Brien, wounded, escaped, and lost no time in presenting himself to Queen Elizabeth, to whom he complained of the conduct of his relative MaclSIahon, who was at once declared an outlaw, and lost his estate which was granted to O'Brien. It had been agreed between O'Brien and the young lady, that the latter should hoist a black handkerchief on the northern pinnacle of the Castle, should her father arrive, by way of warning. This signal O'Brien neglected to look for ; and hence the outrage on him, and tlie disaster that befel l\IacMahon in consequence. Henry's son Daniel was knighted ; \Vas representative in Parliament for Clare, was a Member of the Supreme Council of Confederate Catholics in 1C42, and at the restoration was created Baron Moyarta and Viscount Clare. Daniel was Henry's grandson. See p. 282. ' White's MSS.

    HISTORY or LIMERICK. 805

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 169

58. Sarsfield's personal courage through Limerick's streets and walls

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1690

    During the assault of 27 August 1690, Patrick Sarsfield moved lion-like through the streets of Limerick and ascended the walls, displaying personal courage and daring never yet surpassed. His leadership was instrumental in rallying the garrison and proclaiming the duty every Irishman owed to his country in the crisis.

    Read the passage

    and brave^ defiant^ death-scorning women^ was aroused within their souls. Grenades flew thick and heavy about them_, shot and shell swept the walls, but they faltered not; the Grenadiers followed now by several detachments, were fighting within the very streets. John Street, Broad Street, Mungret Street, every street of the Irishtown down to Ball''s Bridge, were crowded with those detested freebooters and vagabonds — the ruffian rabble soldiers of the bloody-minded contriver of the massacre of Glencoe ! Burning with insatiable revenge, the women, forgetting their nature, called aloud on husbands, sons, and brothers to rally — and showed the example themselves. The ranks that had been broken were re-formed in order to beat back with irresistible force the tide of sanguinary foreign cut-throats which poured across the walls, and which even the battery above referred to was not able sufficiently to resist, though it continued to make lanes in the legions of the Dutchmen and to strew the pavement with their bodies. The brave Wauchop, a Scotch officer of considerable ability, commanded seventeen hundred Irish soldiers chosen for the duty. The contest was the fiercest ever yet remembered. The fight raged, the women, in front and centre urged on the soldiers by word and example. Half the Earl of Drogheda^s Grenadiers were actually on the rampart, says Harris,' while others, still more eager, pushed into the very town. Captain Cadogan, of William's army, raised his |sword in triumph as his men were on the breach. Sarsfield, hon-like, went through the streets, ascended the walls— was everywhere. By an exhibition of personal courage and daring never yet surpassed, he proclaimed aloud the imperative duty which every Irishman owed to his country in the crisis. 2

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 136

    As the companion tells it

    As the road brings you into Limerick, this is the city where, on the 27th of August 1690, Patrick Sarsfield moved lion-like through the streets and up onto the walls during the assault on the city. Grenades flew thick and heavy. Shot and shell swept the walls. The fighting reached into the very streets. John Street, Broad Street, Mungret Street, every street of the Irishtown down to Ball's Bridge were crowded with enemy soldiers. The women of Limerick, scorning death, called aloud on husbands, sons, and brothers to rally, and showed the example themselves. Ranks that had been broken were re-formed to beat back the tide of foreign soldiers pouring across the walls. A battery continued to make lanes in the legions of the Dutchmen and strew the pavement with their bodies. The brave Wauchop, a Scotch officer of considerable ability, commanded seventeen hundred Irish soldiers chosen for the duty. The contest was the fiercest ever yet remembered. Women, in front and centre, urged on the soldiers by word and example. Half the Earl of Drogheda's Grenadiers were on the rampart, while others pushed into the very town. Captain Cadogan, of William's army, raised his sword in triumph as his men were on the breach. Sarsfield, lion-like, went through the streets, ascended the walls, was everywhere. By an exhibition of personal courage and daring never yet surpassed, he proclaimed aloud the imperative duty which every Irishman owed to his country in the crisis.

59. Scanlan and Sullivan return to Glin without Ellen Hanley

    Glin · town · Limerick · 1819

    John Scanlan and Stephen Sullivan arrived very early in Glin the morning after the Carrigafoyle stop, without Ellen Hanley, claiming they had left her at Kilkee. Depositions were taken before the Knight of Glin and Thomas Odell, and Scanlan was later indicted for her murder.

    Read the passage

    County of Limerick,) The information of Ellen Welsh, of Glin, taken before John F. Fitzto wit. y gerald, Knight of Glin, and Thomas O'Dell, Esq., Magistrate of said ! ) County. Informant being duly sworn on the Holy Evangelists, and examined deposeth— That on or about the Thirteenth of July last, she left the town of Kilrush, in the County of Clare, in a boat, the property of John Scanlan, son of William Scanlan, Esq., of Ballvcahane, in the county of Limerick, in which boat were said John Scanlan, a young woman named Ellen Hanley, the reputed wife of said Scanlan, Patrick Caze, Stephen Sullivan, the boatman of said Scanlan, James MitcheU and Jack Mangan, intending to go to Glin. Deponent further saith that all said party put into Carrigafoyle, in the county of Kerry, from bad weather and contrary tide, all said party remained that night in Carrigafoyle, during some part of which time Stephen Sullivan forced a gold ring off the finger of the aforesaid Ellen Hanley ; early the nest morning Patrick Caze, James Mitchell, and Jack Mangan, went by land to Glin, leaving deponent on Carrigafoyle Island with the aforesaid John Scanlan, Stephen Sullivan, and Ellen Hanley. Deponent further saith that said Scanlan requested her to remain on the Island until ha returned for her, during which time he said he would get rid of the said Ellen Hanley ; that deponent insisted on being put over the Creek, to enable her to walk to Glin, upon which Seanlan and Sullivan, accompanied by Ellen Hanley and deponent, went across the creek. Deponent then set out on her way to Glin, and saw the boat depart with the aforesaid John Scanlan and Stephen Sullivan and Ellen Hanley. Deponent further saith that said Ellen Hanley shov.'ed her several articles of wearing apparel which were in a trunk in said boat, and some on her person, and a gold ring. Deponent further saith that John Scanlan and Sullivan came very early into Glin the next morning, not having with them Ellen Hanley, saying that they left her at Kilkee ; that the aforesaid ring was on Scanlan's finger. In a few days after deponent saw a silk handkerchief, a grey mantle, a frock, a skirt, two silk spencers, together with several other artiticles, in the possession of Mary Sullivan, sister of Stephen Sullivan aforesaid, and several other persons. All which articles now produced to deponent, she swears are the same she saw in the possession of Ellen Hanley the night they were at Carrigafoyle. Deponent further saith not.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 259

60. Sheriff Lloyd's brutality at Arthur's prison door, Limerick

    Limerick · city · Limerick

    Sheriff Lloyd beat an unoffending servant who had brought whey to Francis Arthur's prison door in Limerick, calling a serjeant to hold the man while he struck him. The servant returned home covered with wounds and blood, exemplifying Lloyd's ongoing brutality during Arthur's imprisonment.

    Read the passage

    Nineteen da3's after the seizure of his efi^ects, namely on the 17th of June, through the pressing solicitations of Mr. Patrick Arthur (as partner with his son in trade). Colonels Darby and Cockell were so far prevailed upon that they gave up certain bills then about becoming due, but they absolutely refused to deliver up the thousand guineas, though the money was imperatively demanded to pay duties and freights of cargoes. Owing to'the perseverance of Mr. Patrick Arthur, the house was thoroughly searched, and the vaults, bureaus, drawers, &c. when the keys of the warehouse were given to Mr. P. Arthur ; but Colonel Darby retained those of the counting-house, as well as those of the vaults, drawers, &c. In JMr. Arthur's case, the principle of law which regards every man as innocent who is not found guilty, was subverted and ignored. All that could be done was done to persecute and depress him, irrespective of every other consideration. The application of Mrs. Arthur to the General, in order that I\Ir. Thwaytes, the military surgeon, should attend him, was rejected. The reply to the application was that the General had not heard Mr. Arthur was ill, but he wonld enquire about it ; but there was no enquiry, and Sheriff Lloyd continued his brutality. Seeing some whej' brought to Mr. Arthur's prison-door by a servant, Lloyd ferociously called a Serjeant to hold the poor servant, while he (Lloyd) beat him, the unoffending man, so brutally that he returned home covered with wounds and blood ! Whilst sick in bed on the evening of the 22nd of June, Mr. Arthur received a notice that he would be tried next morning, lie got no intimation of the charge. He was brought up to the Council Chamber accordingly on the morning of the 2ord, where

    the Court Martial, composed as follows, was then sitting :

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 230

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Limerick, this city holds a story of persecution. Francis Arthur was held prisoner here, and the principle of law that regards every man as innocent unless found guilty was subverted and ignored in his case. All that could be done was done to persecute and depress him. Nineteen days after the seizure of his effects, on the 17th of June, through the pressing solicitations of Mr. Patrick Arthur, his partner in trade with his son, Colonels Darby and Cockell were so far prevailed upon that they gave up certain bills then about becoming due. But they absolutely refused to deliver up the thousand guineas, though the money was imperatively demanded to pay duties and freights of cargoes. Through Mr. Patrick Arthur's perseverance, the house was thoroughly searched, and the vaults, bureaus, drawers and warehouse keys were given to him. But Colonel Darby retained the keys of the counting-house and the vaults. Mrs. Arthur applied to the General so that Mr. Thwaytes, the military surgeon, might attend him. The application was rejected. The reply was that the General had not heard Mr. Arthur was ill, but he would enquire about it. There was no enquiry. Sheriff Lloyd continued his brutality. Seeing some whey brought to Mr. Arthur's prison door by a servant, Lloyd ferociously called a Serjeant to hold the poor servant while he beat him. The unoffending man returned home covered with wounds and blood. Whilst sick in bed on the evening of the 22nd of June, Mr. Arthur received a notice that he would be tried next morning. He got no intimation of the charge. He was brought up to the Council Chamber on the morning of the 23rd, where the Court Martial was sitting.