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. Presentation Convent founded in Sexton-street

   Sexton Street · street · Limerick · 1837

   In 1837, the Presentation Order nuns from Cork established a convent in Sexton-street, Limerick, chiefly through the zeal of Very Rev. Patrick Hogan, who provided the ground and built schools at his own expense for poor female children. Dr. James P. Carroll contributed £500 to build the convent chapel of cut limestone.

   Read the passage

   The year 1837 was rendered remarkable by the introduction into the city of the nuns of the Presentation Order from Cork, whose admirable convent was founded that year in Sexton-street, chiefly through the instrumentality and zeal of the Yery Eev. Patrick Hogan^ P.P., Y.G., St. MichaeFs, who gave the ground, at a moderate rent, on which the Convent and Schools were built, and who built the spacious Schools at his own expense for the instruction of poor female children by the nuns. Mrs. King, a native of Waterford, who had joined the order some time before in Cork, brought a considerable fortune to the new establishment which was speedily joined by ladies from the City and County of Limerick. This noble establishment soon gave evidence of its strength and usefulness — its schools became fre-

   ' In October following a grand banquet was given in the Northumberland Buildings, to the city members, when 150 citizens Tvere present.

   Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 280

   As the companion tells it

   Along this street in Limerick, the Presentation Order nuns from Cork founded their convent in 1837. The establishment came about chiefly through the zeal of Very Rev. Patrick Hogan, parish priest and vicar general of St. Michael's. He gave the ground at a moderate rent for the convent and schools, and he built the spacious schools at his own expense for the instruction of poor female children by the nuns. Mrs. King, a native of Waterford, who had joined the order some time before in Cork, brought a considerable fortune to the new establishment. It was speedily joined by ladies from the City and County of Limerick. The schools became free, and the convent soon gave evidence of its strength and usefulness.

2. Provincial Bank purchases Round Church site in George's Street

   near George's Street · street · Waterford

   The Provincial Bank proposed to transfer business to George's Street, having purchased the site of St. George's Church, known as the 'Round Church,' built by the Pery family as a chapel of ease in the last century. A terrible murder had been committed near it when the church stood in fields.

   Read the passage

   The Provincial Bank propose to transfer the business of their establishment to a more commodious and suitable concern in George's-street, having purchased the site of the " Round Church," as St. George's Church, in George's-street, was called. This Church was built by the Pery family in the last century as a chapel of ease. Near it a terrible murder was perpetrated, long before houses had been built in George's-street, and when the church was in the fields. Though called the " Round Church," it was a plain square building, with the gable to the front of George's-street, and a stone ball topped with a weather-cock on it.

   The Provincial Bank of Ireland was established in Limerick before any other Joint Stock Bank, and eighteen months before the branch oftice of the Bank of Ireland.

   Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 277

3. Quaker persecution and meeting house in Creagh Lane, Limerick

   Creagh Lane · street · Limerick · 1654–1671

   Quakers who settled in Limerick suffered severe persecution including imprisonment and scourging. Barbara Blagdon was banished by Colonel Henry Ingoldsby, Governor of Limerick, aided by Lieut.-Colonel Hurd and Major Ralph Wilson. The Quakers built a meeting house in Creagh Lane in 1671.

   Read the passage

   The Quakers suffered in consequence a very severe persecution in Limerick,* where several of them suffered imprisonment, and were scourged. Barbara Blagdon, a Quakeress, was banished by Colonel Henry Ingoldsby, Governor of Limerick. He was aided by Lieut.-Colonel Hurd and Major Ealph Wilson in his violence to the Quakers, who first settled in the city two years before the above letter was written, and who in 1671 built a meeting-house in Creagh Lane.

   Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 110

   As the companion tells it

   Along here in Creagh Lane, the Quakers built a meeting house in 1671. They had settled in Limerick some years earlier and suffered severe persecution. Several were imprisoned and scourged. Barbara Blagdon was banished by Colonel Henry Ingoldsby, the Governor of Limerick, aided by Lieut.-Colonel Hurd and Major Ralph Wilson.

4. Richard Arthur receives Papal Nuncio at St. Mary's Cathedral

   Limerick · city · Limerick · 1645

   Richard Arthur, a native of Limerick consecrated Catholic Bishop in 1623, received the Papal Nuncio Rinuccini at St. Mary's Cathedral on 30 October 1645, when the cathedral was again restored to Catholic worship. Clergy and civic and military authorities accompanied Rinuccini in solemn procession from St. John's Gate to the cathedral.

   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

   As the companion tells it

   This is Limerick, where Richard Arthur, a native of the city, received the Papal Nuncio Rinuccini at St. Mary's Cathedral on 30 October 1645. Arthur had become Catholic Bishop in 1623, consecrated by David Rothe, Bishop of Ossory, on the 7th of September that year, with the Bishop of Cork and Luke Archer, Abbot of Holy Cross, assisting at the ceremony. The cathedral was again restored to its ancient possessors. The clergy and the municipal and military authorities accompanied Rinuccini in solemn procession from St. John's Gate to the cathedral. Dr. Meehan records that even the Nuncio admired the splendid crozier and mitre Arthur used in receiving the Pope's ambassador on the threshold of his metropolitan church. Some believed these were the work of a celestial artificer, not mortal hands. The legend runs that at a synod of prelates in Dublin, the bishop went there without his pontificals and sought a crozier and mitre throughout the city. Having given up all hope, a youth just landed from a ship that had entered the harbour approached and presented him a case, telling him he would find the articles he sought and that he might keep them. When he sent a messenger after the stranger to pay, the ship had weighed anchor and vanished beyond the horizon. The mitre was later entrusted to a wealthy Catholic merchant to keep it from the reformers, but he abstracted some of its precious stones and replaced them with false ones, a sacrilege which heaven avenged.

5. Ryan Puck hanged at Limerick jail for Knocksentry murder

   Limerick · city · Limerick · 1849

   William Ryan ('Ryan Puck') was hanged in front of the county Limerick jail on 7 February for the murder of John Kelly at Knocksentry the previous September. William Frewen was transported for life for harbouring Ryan.

   Read the passage

   In the beginning of the year a Special Commission sat in Limerick, when several prisoners were tried, including William Ryan (commonly called Ryan Puck), who was hanged in front of the county Limerick jail on the 7th of February, for the murder of John Kelly at Knocksentry in the previous September. Other prisoners were sentenced to transportation, among whom was William Frewen, who was transported for life for harbouring Ryan Puck. The Lord Chief Justice and the Lord Chief Baron presided. Sir David Roche was High Sheriff of the county.'

   Alderman John Boyse filled the office of Mayor in 1849 ; he presented an address of the Corporation to her Majesty the Queen, at a levee which was held in Dublin in August.^ He laid the foundation of the new floating docks, for which he was presented with a silver trowel. He was a thorough liberal, a solicitor of eminence, and an energetic member of the independents. He died during his mayoralty about November, and was succeeded for the remainder of the term by Laurence Quinlivan, Esq.

   Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 291

   As the companion tells it

   As you pass through Limerick, this city saw a Special Commission at the start of 1849. Several prisoners were tried, including William Ryan, known as Ryan Puck. He was hanged in front of the county Limerick jail on the 7th of February, for the murder of John Kelly at Knocksentry the previous September. Other prisoners were sentenced to transportation. Among them was William Frewen, transported for life for harbouring Ryan Puck. The Lord Chief Justice and the Lord Chief Baron presided. Sir David Roche was High Sheriff of the county. That same year Alderman John Boyse held the office of Mayor. He presented an address of the Corporation to Queen Victoria at a levee in Dublin in August, and laid the foundation of the new floating docks, for which he was presented with a silver trowel. He died during his mayoralty about November, and was succeeded by Laurence Quinlivan.

6. Sacking and burning of Limerick after Solohead

   Limerick · city · Limerick · 968

   After the Battle of Solohead, the victorious Irish pursued the retreating Danish army into Limerick, slaughtering them in the streets and houses. Mahon bestowed the city's plunder on his soldiers, who found immense booty of gold, jewels, and silver, then set fire to the houses, burned the fortifications, and dismantled the walls.

   Read the passage

   Danes were killed on the spot, with their principal commanders, who were Teitel, a person of great strength, and Governor of Waterford; Runan, Governor of Cork ; Muris, Governor of Limerick ; Bernard and Toroll. The remains of the Danish army retreated to Limerick, where the Irish soldiers pursued them, and entering the city with them, made a terrible slaughter. *' The victors pursued the flying enemy into the city of Limerick, and chased them through the streets, and into the houses, where they were slain without mercy or quarter. The plunder of the city was bestowed upon the soldiers by Mahon, where they found an immense booty of gold, jewels, furniture, and silver to an immense value. After they had rifled the houses they set them on fire, they burned the fortifications, demohshed the waUs, and perfectly dismantled the city and made it incapable of defence.^'' ^ This was one of the greatest battles in the ancient annals of L'eland.

   Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 12

   As the companion tells it

   Coming up along Limerick now. In 968, after the Battle of Solohead, the Danish army retreated into this city with the Irish in close pursuit. The Danish governors had already fallen on the field: Teitel of Waterford, Runan of Cork, Muris, governor here, along with Bernard and Toroll. The Irish soldiers followed the fleeing enemy through the streets and into the houses, where they were slain without mercy or quarter. Mahon gave the plunder to his soldiers, and they found an immense booty of gold, jewels, furniture, and silver. After they had rifled the houses, they set them on fire, burned the fortifications, demolished the walls, and perfectly dismantled the city, making it incapable of defence.

7. Samuel Cross killed in attack at Patrickswell

   Patrickswell · town · Limerick · 1821–1822

   Christopher Sparling's house in Patrickswell was attacked; he resisted with help from Samuel Cross of Limerick city, who was killed. Three men were hanged for the offence, and one who escaped to America was accidentally burned there. Sparling was later shot while riding toward Newcastle from a farm called Rourka.

   Read the passage

   respectable Palatine farmer, as he was riding towards the town of Newcastle from a farm called Eourka, on which he had become tenant on the ejection of the late occupier. At a previous attack made upon his house in Patrickswell, he had made a spirited resistance, assisted by a respectable young man named Samuel Cross, from the city of Limerick, Avho was resident in the house at the time, and unfortunately killed in the attack. Three men were hanged for the offence, and one, who contrived to escape to America, was accidentally burned in his adopted country.

   It does not enter into our plan to describe the progress of Rockite insurrection^ at any length, but as a clue to the objects proposed to themselves by the insurrectionists, we may mention that after severe fighting at Churchtown, county Cork, to which county the insurrection had extended, in which 1500 insurgents were engaged.

   Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 256

8. Sarsfield burns Cullen market town

   Cullen · townland · Cork

   During the Williamite wars, Patrick Sarsfield burned the market town of Cullen on Warter's estate in County Limerick. Days later, William III ordered General Ellenberg to blow up the castle there, compounding the devastation.

   Read the passage

   " Represents the yearly rental of Warter's estate to be £500, but was unfortunately the seat of war. CuUen, a market town, was burned by Patrick Sarsfiekl, afcrwards Lord Lucan ; and William the Third, some days after, gave General Ellcnberg orders to blow up the Castle. The Irish burned the Manor House ; and the Dutch and English armies burned the market town of Bilboe, so that, by being laid waste, the whole damage estimated at £13068."

   Purcell, Baron of Loughmoe, though one of the commissioners for arranging the Treaty of surrender, and who was specially privileged to avail himself of the articles of Limerick, preferred to proceed to France with King James, and thus he incurred the forfeiture of his title and property.^ It is supposed that the attainder of Lord Galmoy occurred for the same cause. These titles have not been revived.

   Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni

9. Sarsfield crosses the Shannon at Killaloe for Ballyneety raid

   Killaloe · town · Clare · 1690

   Sarsfield passed the Shannon at Killaloe with a body of horse and dragoons to intercept the Williamite artillery train on its way to the siege of Limerick. This crossing was the first leg of his famous raid on the enemy's siege equipment.

   Read the passage

   1 Captain Eobert Parker says (Memoirs, p. 23) : " The enemy" (the Irish) " having had a particular account of their route, detached Sarstield with a good bodj- of Horse and Dragoons to intercept it ; and he passed the Shannon at Killaloe, came up with the train in the night between the 1 1th and 12th of August, as they lay encamped at Cullen (near Ballyneety) about eleven miles from our camp ; and falling suddenly on them when all were asleep, they burned and destroyed everything that could be of any use to us. They burst the cannon by overloading them, and putting their muzzles in ground, then setting fire to them, they went off without the loss of a man. " This was a well conducted affair," (adds Captain Parker) " and much to Sarsfield's honour" — but he remarks, " had there not been so much cruelty in the execution of it ; for they put man, woman and child to the sword, though there was not much opposition made. However," exclaims Captain Parker, " we cannot suppose that so gallant a man as Sarsfield certainly was, could be guilty of giving such orders ; it is rather to be presumed that in such a juncture he could not restrain the natural barbarity of his men."

   ^ The Duke of Berwick, in his memoirs, says that it was this coup that defeated the projectors of the siege. " Limerick was weak of itself and ill fortified — and besieged by the army of the Prince of Oranrje. Limerick being open on several quarters, bore many assaults ; but Count Sarsfield, with a body of six hundred horse and dragoons, having taken and blown up the enemy's artillery, as it was on the road from Kilkenny to their camp before Limerick, the Prince of Orange was forced to raise the siege of that place, after having suffered a considerable loss." — Life of the Duhe ofBenoick, pp. 39, 40.

   Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 133

10. Sarsfield encamps on Keeper Hill

    near Slievekimalta or Keeper Hill · mountain or mountain range · Tipperary · 1690

    Continuing through Morrisey's Bogs and Kiloskully, Sarsfield's party reached Keeper Hill, where they encamped for the night in the mountain fastnesses. An old O'Ryan of that country reportedly offered Sarsfield hospitality.

    Read the passage

    coming out on the Boher road, near Labadhy Bridge. When at this bridge, the party, who were conducted by Galloping Hogan, were startled by a curious incident. Sarsfield discovered, near Labadhy Bridge, a number of men on his left, whose presence excited alarm. He ordered the horse to halt, apprehensive that he had been betrayed by Hogan. But the delusion was dispelled in a instant ; the men whose presence caused so much alarm were a body of Eaparees who had a den or hiding place here, in which they were accustomed to conceal whatever provisions they had taken in their predatory excursions throughout the district. The party passed on through Morrisey's Bogs.i, j^nd continued on their route through Kdloskully, until they reached Keeper Hill, where in the fastnesses of the mountain, they encamped for the night, and where, among many others, Sarsfield it is said was visited by one of the old O^Eyans of that country, who offered him hospitality. On the following morning videttes were sent to watch the advance of the expected artillery train of William, and to report progress. In a short time it was intimated to Sarsfield that the guns and ammunition were on their way to Limerick, and that the English forces were to encamp for the night near the hill of Ballyneety, a remarkable conical eminence which maybe seen from a great distance, somewhat near Derk.^ Sarsfield went next night and arriving near the hill, he halted. And here lay a principal difficulty, namely, how to discover the watchword of the Williamites. An accident obtained the desired information. One of SarsfiekVs troopers, whose horse got lame, fell into the rere of his party: he met the wife of one of William's soldiers who had remained behind the WiUiamites on their march, and taking compassion on her, he enabled her to proceed on her journey. By this means the trooper obtained the watchword of the English. The word was " Sarsfield." Proceeding on, he joined Sarsfield who was in the greatest anxiety for the watchword, but the difficulty was speedily dissipated. Now everything was in readiness to make the grand stroke on which Sarsfield had set his heart, and which was to decide the fate of the campaign, as he had anticipated it would, and as the result, in the judgment of all military men, proved it really did. The convoy lay asleep under their guns, their horses were at rest; the encampment was still as death; no danger appeared; all were in imaginary security, free from the slightest suspicion of the blows that were about coming thick and heavy upon them.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 132

11. Seizure and search of Francis Arthur's house and warehouse in Limerick

    Limerick · city · Limerick

    Colonels Darby and Cockell seized the effects of Limerick merchant Francis Arthur and occupied his house, vaults, and warehouse. Through Patrick Arthur's persistence, warehouse keys were eventually surrendered, but Colonel Darby retained the keys to the counting-house and vaults, and the goods were not fully restored.

    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

12. Sir Geoffry Galway's 'Castle House' on Nicholas Street, Limerick

    Nicholas Street · street · Limerick

    An old Dutch gabled house at No. 3 Nicholas Street, known as the Castle House, is identified as the residence of Sir Geoffry Galway and reputedly the house where Ireton died. It featured an ancient arched doorway from Gridiron Lane and was said to be the first brick-fronted house in Limerick.

    Read the passage

    An old very high Dutch gabled house. No. 3, Kicholas-street, is pointed out to this day as " the Castle House," in which Sir Geoffry Galway is said to have resided. It is also said to have been the house in which Ireton, Cromwell's son-in-law, died. An ancient arched door-way forms an entrance into it from Gridiron Lane, which divides it from the Exchange; in front is a baker's shop. It is stated to have been the first brick-fronted house in Limerick. Sir Geoffry Galway 's ancestor, John De Burgo, younger brother of Ullick, ancestor of the Marquis of Clanrickarde, called John of Gallway, from having accredited the bills of the citizens of Galway, was knighted by Lionel Duke of Clarence, then Lord Lieutenant of Ireland, for his signal services in defending Ball's Bridge, Limerick, against the great force of the O'Briens in 1361, with permission to him and his heirs to carry the bridge emblazoned on his arms, with the date 1361, with the grant from Henry IV. of the Castles of Dundannion and Lota, county Cork, where he is still represented by William Galway, Esq. The Limerick family is buried in the South aisle of St. Mary's Cathedral, in which there are the mutilated remains of a fine black marble monument, bearing the Galway arras, with the expression, " Quadrant Insignia Galway" — no doubt referring to the above.

    Dr. Thomas Arthur makes this note : — " Sir Geoffry Galway the layer and baronett 20 Mali 1633, did mortgage unto me all his howses, tenements, and gardines in Mongrett-street and in the south langable thereof, for one hundred pounds ster. And I demised the same unto him dureing the mortgage at ten pounds ster. per annum, he Geoffrey dureing his own life tyme payed me the said reserved rent yearly. He dyed 29 Martii, 1636, and since then one of his executores, William Fitzwilliam Creagh, payed me what rents fell due vntell 23 Mali, 1638, inclusively. But since May, 1038, neither his heyre or executors payed me anie rents, whereby three veares and a half's rent before the warres. were falen due to me being £35 ster. — Arthur MSS.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 70

    As the companion tells it

    Along here on this street stands what was called the Castle House, an old Dutch gabled house at number 3 Nicholas Street. Sir Geoffry Galway is said to have resided in it, and it is also said to have been the house in which Ireton, Cromwell's son-in-law, died. An ancient arched doorway forms an entrance into it from Gridiron Lane, which divides it from the Exchange. In front is a baker's shop. It is stated to have been the first brick-fronted house in Limerick. Sir Geoffry Galway's ancestor was John De Burgo, younger brother of Ullick, ancestor of the Marquis of Clanrickarde. He was called John of Gallway, from having accredited the bills of the citizens of Galway. He was knighted by Lionel Duke of Clarence, then Lord Lieutenant of Ireland, for his signal services in defending Ball's Bridge, Limerick, against the great force of the O'Briens in 1361, with permission to him and his heirs to carry the bridge emblazoned on his arms, with the date 1361. He received a grant from Henry IV of the Castles of Dundannion and Lota, county Cork, where he is still represented by William Galway, Esq. The Limerick family is buried in the South aisle of St. Mary's Cathedral, where there are the mutilated remains of a fine black marble monument bearing the Galway arms, with the expression, Quadrant Insignia Galway. Dr. Thomas Arthur records that Sir Geoffry Galway, on 20 May 1633, mortgaged to him all his houses, tenements, and gardens in Mongrett Street for one hundred pounds, and Arthur leased them back to Galway at ten pounds per annum. Galway paid the rent yearly during his lifetime. He died 29 March 1636. His executor, William Fitzwilliam Creagh, paid the rents due until 23 May 1638. After that, neither his heir nor his executors paid any rents, leaving three and a half years' rent due before the wars, amounting to 35 pounds.

13. Special Commission and mass trials in Limerick city and county

    Limerick · city · Limerick

    Limerick county and city were proclaimed and a Special Commission of general gaol delivery was held on 1 November, with 79 prisoners tried in the county and 18 in the city for crimes including murder, night assemblies, robbery, and burglary. Eight were executed at the scenes of their alleged crimes, some transported to Botany Bay, and others flogged or imprisoned.

    Read the passage

    of Limerick; and tlie Liberties of the City were declared to be out of Ilis Majesty's peace. Forty-three Magistrates attended. The County was proclaimed on the 20th of September — the proclamation to begin to be in force from the 5th of October. The Liberties were also proclaimed. Sergeants Johnson and Joy were sent down by Government to hold Special Sessions in the City and County. A Special Commission of general gaol delivery was held at Limerick on the 1 st of November, Chief Baron O'Grady presided as Judge in the County, and Mr. Sergeant Joy in the city. In the County were confined seven charged with murder, nineteen for assembling at night, and taking arms, nine for robbery on the highway, twenty for burglary and felony, five for flogging at night, two firing with intent to kill, one for abduction, one for assault on a magistrate, four for cow-stealing, nine for minor ofiences — total, 79. In the city one was charged with murder, four for taking up arms, four for assaulting with intent to kill, four for robbery, two for burglary, two for sheep-stealing, one minor offence — total, 18. Out of those there were eight executed at the places where their several crimes were alleged to have been committed; some were transported to Botany Bay for seven years ; some were flogged, and some were confined and obliged to give bail.

    While these lamentable proceedings were taking place, it was a rehef to

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 248

    As the companion tells it

    Coming through Limerick, you pass through a city that was declared out of His Majesty's peace. The liberties of the city were proclaimed, and the county was proclaimed on 20 September, the proclamation to take force from 5 October. Forty-three magistrates attended. Sergeants Johnson and Joy were sent down by government to hold Special Sessions in the city and county. A Special Commission of general gaol delivery was held on 1 November, Chief Baron O'Grady presiding as judge in the county, and Sergeant Joy in the city. In the county, 79 prisoners were confined. Seven were charged with murder, 19 for assembling at night and taking arms, nine for robbery on the highway, 20 for burglary and felony, five for flogging at night, two for firing with intent to kill, one for abduction, one for assault on a magistrate, four for cow-stealing, and nine for minor offences. In the city, 18 were held: one for murder, four for taking up arms, four for assaulting with intent to kill, four for robbery, two for burglary, two for sheep-stealing, and one for a minor offence. Of those tried, eight were executed at the places where their several crimes were alleged to have been committed. Some were transported to Botany Bay for seven years. Some were flogged. Some were confined and obliged to give bail.

14. Spring Rice statue erected in Pery Square

    Pery Square · street · Limerick

    A colossal pillar and life-like statue of Mr. Spring Rice was erected in Pery Square by his fellow-citizens a few years before 1834. His popularity subsequently waned due to his opposition to Repeal and his coining of the phrase 'West Britain' in Parliament.

    Read the passage

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

    ' See the Life of Gerald Griffin, p. 311, by his brother, of which the author of this history possesses the MSS. This gifted son of genius was born in the city of Limerick, December 12th, 1803, and died in April, 1840, at the Monastery of the Christian Brothers, Cork, of which religious order he was a member, and in whose little cemetery he lies interred, with the simple iascription, " Brother Gerald Griifin."

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 277

    As the companion tells it

    Along this street in Pery Square stands a colossal pillar with a life-like statue of Mr. Spring Rice, erected a few years before 1834 by his fellow-citizens, who admired him greatly. For several years those admirers had followed what the source calls his "chariot wheels as they rolled in triumph over the prostrate faction of the corruptionists in Limerick." But by early 1834 his popularity had been on the wane, and it was about to vanish entirely. O'Connell was stirring the popular mind to its depths, and nowhere was he more ardently responded to than in Limerick. Early that year O'Connell published a manifesto to the people of Ireland in favour of Repeal of the Union, nailing his colours to the mast. The anti-tithe movement swept the greater portion of the country, and went hand in hand with a demand for a Parliament in College Green. The minister trembled, and Irishmen showed they were in earnest by a quick response to the great Leader's call. Mr. William Roche and Mr. David Roche, members for the city, declared in favour of the great national question. Spring Rice offered decided opposition to the cause of Repeal, and his popularity was completely forfeited. He fell rapidly in the esteem of even his ardent admirers. In April 1834 the debate came on O'Connell's motion in the House of Commons for a Committee of Enquiry.

15. St. Munchin's Church and the saint's curse on Limerick

    Limerick · city · Limerick

    The ancient church of St. Munchin was situated on the south side of the River Shannon. Tradition holds that when St. Munchin was building his church, the inhabitants of Limerick refused to contribute, provoking him to curse them so that natives of Limerick would never prosper there. A Protestant church now stands on the site, bounded on the north by the old town wall.

    Read the passage

    sister of tlie saint, the building of Little Kilrush/ and to St. Covanus, tlie abbot, tlie historic cliurcli of Kilquane, all of which, tradition further has it, were built near the time of St. Patrick. The commemoration of the dea,th of Manchenus is pointed out under the name of Manicheus, " the wise Irishman", in the books De mirahilihus ScripturcB, by some erroneously ascribed to St. Augustine {Opera St. August, tom. 3, lib. 2, cap, 4). The ancient church of St. Munchin was situated on the south side o[ tl^e river Shannon. Tradition has it that when St. Munchin was building his church the inhabitants of Limerick were very unwilling to contribute thereto, which so provoked the saint that he gave this curse to^them, viz. : " that the natives of Limerick should never prosper therein".'^ On the site is built a Protestant church, a comparatively modern^ building seven hundred feet in circumference, bounded on the north or river side by the old town wall. In 1711, a year of very great excitement in Limerick, the Right Rev. Dr. Smyth, Protestant bishop, expended a considerable sum of money in repairing this church. His sons, Charles Smyth, Esq., M.P., and the Rev. John Smyth, set on foot in 1734 a subscription by which a sum of £150 was raised to build a vestry room.^

    1 The residence of the Hon. Robert O'Brien, brother of Lord Inchiquin, is close by this ancient church, which is in many I'espects similar to that of Mungret.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 314

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Limerick, you are passing the ground of an old curse. The ancient church of St. Munchin stood on the south side of the River Shannon. Tradition says that when St. Munchin was building his church, the people of Limerick were very unwilling to contribute. This provoked the saint so much that he cursed them. His words were: "that the natives of Limerick should never prosper therein." A Protestant church now stands on the site, a comparatively modern building, 700 feet in circumference, bounded on the north, the river side, by the old town wall. In 1711, a year of great excitement in Limerick, the Right Rev. Dr. Smyth, the Protestant bishop, spent a considerable sum repairing this church. His sons, Charles Smyth, member of Parliament, and the Rev. John Smyth, started a subscription in 1734. They raised 150 pounds to build a vestry room. The saint's church is gone, but his curse stayed in the memory of the city long after the stones were rebuilt.

16. St. Patrick's Purgatory dug up by Lords Justices, 1629

    near Lough Derg · lake or lakes · Donegal · 1629

    In 1629, Lords Justices Adam Loftus and Richard Earl of Cork caused St. Patrick's Purgatory to be dug up, and by direction from the Council in England seized fifteen new religious houses of Irish Catholics.

    Read the passage

    These Lords Justices caused St. Patrick's Purgatory to be dug up,^ and by directions from the Council in England seized on fifteen of the new religious houses of the Irish Catholics.^

    • " On the 30th of August I proceeded to Limerick, where I remained until the tenth day of the following March with my wife, and obtained in the meantime from some patients £21 8s. Gd. At that time it was, that Mr. James Usher, Doctor and ' pseudo-primate' of Armagh, who had lately returned from England, where he had long laboured under a severe disease, to remove which, he had tried in vain the assistance of the royal physicians at a vast expense, sent for me. I waited upon him, while staying at his own palace in Drogheda, March li2nd, 1625. Then having heard his statement and weighed the opinions of the most eminent ph}-sicians, and serriousl)' studied the symptoms which arose throughout the whole history of the disease ; from these I thought I had explained the cause of this doubtful disease, which every day grew worse and worse, and which had hitherto escaped the observation of several very eminent men, which when I was sensible I had perfect!}' ascertained after making a slight experiment to try my conjecture,' I confidently undertook his cure ; nor did my hopes once deceive me. The curing of so eminent and on account of his erudition, so celebrated a man, of this grievous and stubbom disease, which baffled the skill of the royal physicians and most eminent doctors of England, made me celebrated and a favourite amongst the English, whom I had greatly disliked [exosus] for the sake of the Catholic religion." While this cure was progressing, the Doctor accompanied the Primate to Lambay Island, v.-here remote from intrusion they devoted their attention to the cure. The Primate gave him £51 for his professional services.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 79

17. Tri-oared galley built to guard Limerick port

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1505

    In 1505, a great tri-oared galley was built for guarding the port of Limerick and protecting public interests against pirate incursions. The citizens reposed anything but safely within their walls, and pirates had come up to the very watergates.

    Read the passage

    Our local annal of the next year, 1505, (2Ist Henry VII.) shows that the citizens reposed anything but safely within their walls, and that the means they took to protect themselves from pirates, who appear to have come up to the very watergates, were primitive indeed. William Harrold was Mayor for the second time; Nicholas Creagh and John Eochford were bailiffs; John White was Clerk of the Couri^ of Limerick (quere? Town Clerk) ; James Butler, Earl of Ormond, was Lord Lieutenant of Ireland ; when our authority, on the 13th of February, says,^ '' a great tri-oared galley, fitted out with all things necessary, was l)uilt for the purpose of guarding our port, and protecting the pubhc interests against the incursions of pirates.^^ The next year (1506) the Bridge of Port-Croisi, — a name which is yet preserved in the townland of Portcrush, situated on the Shannon, in the north-west end of the parish of CastleconneU, — was built by Turlough O'Brien ; and some few years afterwards, as we shall feee, the Earl of Kildare marched with his army to this bridge, Avhich he broke down, and encamped for the night, before the battle of Monabraher. — John Biu-ke, son of Ulick, " the noblest of the English in Ireland, a vessel filled with hospitality and truth, a link of steel in sustaining the battle," died. — Hemy VIII. now (1508) ascended the English throne; and events prove his anxiety to see more closely than any of his predecessors into the affairs of Ireland. In Limerick, we find that he laid the foundation of the Sexton family, which up to our own time, retain much of the lands which he gave to their ancestors. By new Letters Patent he constituted Garrett, Earl of Kildare, Lord Justice of Ireland, and intimated to him his father^s decease and his own succession to his kingdoms.^ Always aggressive, and uoav, more than ever sustained by Royal favor, an army was led into Munster by the Lord Justice of Ireland,

    • Moore's History of Ireland, vol. iii. p. 221. 2 Artluir MSS.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 43

    As the companion tells it

    The city of Limerick, which the road passes through, was anything but a safe refuge in 1505. Pirates had come right up to the very watergates, and the citizens within the walls could not rest easy. The means they took to protect themselves were primitive indeed. William Harrold was Mayor for the second time. Nicholas Creagh and John Eochford were bailiffs. John White was Clerk of the Court of Limerick. James Butler, Earl of Ormond, was Lord Lieutenant of Ireland. On the 13th of February, the local annal records that a great tri-oared galley, fitted out with all things necessary, was built for the purpose of guarding the port and protecting the public interests against the incursions of pirates. The next year, 1506, the Bridge of Port-Croisi was built by Turlough O'Brien. The name survives in the townland of Portcrush, on the Shannon, in the north-west end of the parish of Castleconnell. Some years afterwards, the Earl of Kildare marched with his army to this bridge, broke it down, and encamped for the night before the battle of Monabraher. John Burke, son of Ulick, died. The annal calls him "the noblest of the English in Ireland, a vessel filled with hospitality and truth, a link of steel in sustaining the battle." Henry the Eighth ascended the English throne in 1508, and events prove his anxiety to see more closely than any of his predecessors into the affairs of Ireland. In Limerick, he laid the foundation of the Sexton family, which retained much of the lands he gave to their ancestors. By new Letters Patent he constituted Garrett, Earl of Kildare, Lord Justice of Ireland.

18. Triumphal procession in Limerick for Benburb victory

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1646

    On 14 June 1646, a triumphal procession formed from St. Francis church in Limerick, with military, standards borne by city gentlemen, the nuncio, archbishops, bishops, council members, and magistrates in robes proceeding to the cathedral where Te Deum was sung. The following morning mass was celebrated at St. Mary's Cathedral.

    Read the passage

    The nuncio writing from Limerick in the 16th of this month, thus describes the thanksgivings offered up upon this occasion, ^ The next day (Sunday 14th June, 1646,) at four o^clock in the afternoon, a triumphal procession was formed from the church of St. Francis, where the standards had been deposited. ' The whole of the military in Limerick under arms led the way, after them came the standards, borne aloft by the gentlemen of the city. The nuncio accompanied by the Archbishop of Cashel and the Bishops of Limerick, Clonfert and Ardfert followed ; after whom came the members of the supreme council, the mayor and magistrates in their robes of office. The people filled the streets and windows, and on the arrival of the procession at the cathedral, the Te Deum was sung by the nuncios choir. He himself offered up the accustomed prayers, and concluded with a solemn benediction. Next morning he assisted at the mass in St. Mary^s Cathedral, for the giving of thanks, which was chanted by the Dean of Fermo in St. Mary^s Cathedral, in the presence of the prelates and magistrates above mentioned. ^

    The negociations and intrigues which followed these events,^ and which ended in the signing of Ormond's peace in 1646, fill a large space in the history of the times. The Nuncio protested with all the vehemence he could employ, and summoned the prelates and other chiefs among the clergy, with the heads of religious houses to meet him at Waterford, where with all the formality of an apostolic visitation, or a regular national synod, the peace was unanimously denounced, the scruples or fears of those who inclined towards it, were set at rest by promises of Pdnnuccini that large assistance would come from Eome, and that the Archbishop of Cashel had given his assent by saying " in verbo tuo laxaho rete."

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 89

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Limerick, the city holds a story from June 1646. The news of victory at Benburb had reached the city, and on the 14th of that month a triumphal procession was formed from the church of St. Francis, where the standards had been deposited. The nuncio, writing from Limerick on the 16th, described it. The whole of the military in Limerick under arms led the way. After them came the standards, borne aloft by the gentlemen of the city. The nuncio, accompanied by the Archbishop of Cashel and the Bishops of Limerick, Clonfert and Ardfert, followed. After them came the members of the supreme council, the mayor and magistrates in their robes of office. The people filled the streets and windows. On arrival at the cathedral, the Te Deum was sung by the nuncio's choir. He himself offered up the accustomed prayers and concluded with a solemn benediction. The following morning he assisted at mass in St. Mary's Cathedral, for the giving of thanks, chanted by the Dean of Fermo in the presence of the prelates and magistrates. The negotiations and intrigues that followed these events ended in the signing of Ormond's peace in 1646. The nuncio protested with all the vehemence he could employ. He summoned the prelates and other chiefs among the clergy, with the heads of religious houses, to meet him at Waterford. There, with all the formality of an apostolic visitation, the peace was unanimously denounced. The scruples of those who inclined towards it were set at rest by promises from Rinuccini that large assistance would come from Rome, and by the Archbishop of Cashel, who gave his assent saying, 'in verbo tuo laxabo rete.'

19. Williamite soldiers destroyed statue of Donough O'Brien

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1650–1691

    After the two sieges of Limerick in 1650 and 1691, nothing remained of the tomb or statue of Donough Carbraigh in the Dominican monastery. It is said that soldiers of King William broke in pieces the statue of the religious prince who had built 80 churches, abbeys, and chapels.

    Read the passage

    cliurcli had been in tlieir days of splendour. It is said that the soldiers of King William broke in pieces the statue of Donougli Carbraigb, who was a very religious and devout prince, having built 80 churches, abbeys, and chapels (according to MacBrody's Chronicles). The Abbey of Ennis for Franciscans was one of the first he built. He also erected an academy or seminary for learning at Clonroad, near Ennis, where, according to many authentic writers, six hundred scholars and a great many monks were frequently supported at the proper expense of the O'Brien family, until the reign of Henry VHI. of England, when the dissolution of abbeys, seminaries, etc., etc., commenced.'

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 372

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Limerick, after the two sieges of 1650 and 1691, nothing remained of the tomb or statue of Donough Carbraigh in the Dominican monastery. It is said that soldiers of King William broke in pieces the statue of this religious and devout prince, who had built 80 churches, abbeys, and chapels. The Abbey of Ennis for Franciscans was one of the first he built. He also erected an academy for learning at Clonroad, near Ennis, where six hundred scholars and a great many monks were frequently supported at the expense of the O'Brien family, until the reign of Henry VIII of England, when the dissolution of abbeys commenced.

20. William of Orange dines at Kilkenny Castle

    Kilkenny · city · Kilkenny · 1690

    William, accompanied by the Duke of Ormonde, dined at his castle of Kilkenny and admired the magnificent gallery of paintings, including portraits of the Earl of Strafford.

    Read the passage

    It is certain that William, who had set out on his march to Limerick on the 9th of July, made several delays, and spoke of returning to England, in the hope that he might be able to induce Tyrconnell to enter into a satisfactory negociation. In his progress he was accompanied by the Duke of Ormonde, with whom he dined at his castle of Kilkenny, where, no doubt, he admired the magnificent gallery of paintings, which included portraits of the unfortunate Earl of Strafford in his younger days and towards the close of his puzzling career.* Erom Kilkenny, on Sunday the 20th, they marched six miles farther, to Mr. Read^s, of Rossenara, where they encamped ; on the following day, they reached Carrick-on-Suir, where also they encamped, and viewed the residence of the Duke of Ormonde, whose ancestor, Edward Boteler, or Butler, in the reign of Edward II. obtained the honor of Earl of Carrick, which the Duke now enjoyed. While in camp near Carrick-on-Suir, I believe at a place caUed Deer Park, a few miles on the Clonmel road, WiUiam, who had heard that Thomas Otway, Protestant Bishop of Ossory, refused to pray for him, directed his secretary. Sir William Southwell, to write to the Bishop, suspending him till further orders. William now summoned Waterford, which surrendered ; and here again he spoke of going to England, but did not do so, and joined the army on the 2nd of August at Golden Bridge.

    While Wilham was at Golden Bridge, he was waited on by the Mayor and Corporation of Cashel, who presented him with a petition on the subject of their displacement by James, and he gave them a letter restoring them to their ancient rights and privileges, and naming Mayor, Aldermen, and Officers of the Corporation.^

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 125

21. Dromoland established as O'Brien family seat

    Dromoland · townland · Clare

    Donogh O'Brien's castles and lands, including Dromoland, descended to his son Connor and his heirs. The present Lord Inchiquin established his right to that title through descent from Donagh, founder of the family of Dromoland.

    Read the passage

    In 1582^ died Teige O'Brien (founder of the Ballycorick family) " a hero in prowess.'" He had been for some time Tanist of Thomond, but was expelled together with his brother by Donnell. He afterwards went to Spain and France, and thence to England, where he obtained his pardon and his entire share of the territory, except the tanistry alone. He was interred m the monastery of Ennis. Donogh O'Brien (son of Morrogh), who had joined the rebellious De Burgh the year before, having repented, returned back under protection ;* but the Queen's officers detected a flaw in the protection, and hanged him in the gateway of Limerick ; he was buried in the monastery of Ennis. His castles and lands of Lemenagh, Dromoland, Ballyconnelly, and other places, descended to his son Connor and his heirs, amongst whom is the present Lord Inchiquin, who established his right to that title in virtue of his descent from this Donagh, the founder of the family of Dromoland. There was no forfeiture, because Donagh fell a victim to martial l^w, which recognises no forfeitures.

    5

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 64

22. Over 530 trees uprooted at Adare in great storm

    Adare · townland · Limerick · 1815

    The December hurricane tore up upwards of 530 large trees at Adare, 130 at Tervoe, 200 at Castletown Waller, and 150 at Hollypark. Twenty farmers' houses were levelled at Kilgenny common about three miles beyond Adare.

    Read the passage

    December 16th — At a verj' early hour this morning, a tremendous storm arose from the S.W. quarter, and blew a hurricane more furious than any remembered by the oldest person living here ; it threw down several chimneys, and unroofed houses — it threw down a new house in Glentworth-street. About 7 o'clock, a Norway ship of about 200 tons, drifted from her fastenings at Shannon-quay, and was driven up to the lower end of Newgate-lane, abreast of the old Golden Mills ; a brig and a sloop, both laden, were driven completely over the weir of Curragower, and grounded under the S.W. tower of the Castle Barrack. The tide rose up to the houses on Merchants'-quay ; the lanes and passages were strewn with bricks, tiles and slates, which had fallen from the houses ; the flag-staff, erected on St. Mary's Cathedral at the close of A.D. 1800, was broken and carried away ; and the new wooden gallery erected in July last, on the west side of the City gaol, over the river, was totally destroyed. A new Scotch sloop, with rock salt, thrown on her beam ends, at O'NeiU's-quay, and sunk. Great damage on the Northstrand, and most of a new parapet wall, erected only last summer, swept clear away. Many of the river craft totally lost, together with many lives. The leads on the Custom House rolled up, and partly carried off. This storm very general throughout the kingdom ; upwards of 530 large trees torn up from the roots at Adare ; 130 gross trees at Tervoe ; 200 ditto at Castletown waller ; 150 ditto at Hollypark (Mr. Taylor's) ; twenty farmers' houses were levelled to the ground on Kilgenny common, about 3 miles beyond Adare. An over grown elm tree at Clonmacken, in the N. Liberties, blown down — it had stood upwards of 150 years ; at Kilballyowen, 130 trees — all in this county. The damage at sea was dreadful. At Liverpool, 4 vessels were

    436 HISTORY OF LLMElllCK.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 249

23. Parley beaten in English-town and Irish-town

    Irishtown · townland · Limerick · 1691

    On the night of 23 September 1691, Irish drummers beat a parley in both the English-town and Irish-town quarters of Limerick, leading to a cessation of hostilities between Sarsfield and Ginkle.

    Read the passage

    With fraudj corruption^ and overpowering numbers, with Henry Lutterel and Chffbrd, who had bid for their reward, and who awaited the moment to obtain it ; with infamous traitors of this stamp in his own camp, Lutterel and Chiford, who were now in prison, awaiting a Court-Martial for their treachery and abandonment of every sacred duty which they owed their country in this tremendous crisis of its fortune, Sarsfield and those true men, who had thought and acted with him, came to the conclusion that they were fighting against odds j and though the cannon yet poured its raking fire from the King's Castle and the batteries about the bridge on the Wilhamite soldiery, and though many more of them, than has been admitted, feR beneath the shot and shell of the Irish, yet the position of afi'airs was sufiiciently discouraging in the estimation of the Irish commanders. Other deserters went over to Ginkle, among whom was Colonel Corbet, who promised that Tyrconnell's and Gabnoy's regiments were prepared to join him. This must have been a calumny on the brave soldiers of these distinguished regiments, which as active contingents of the celebrated Irish Brigade abroad afterwards, made the name of Ireland respected on foreign fields, and won for themselves enduring fame and glory. Por six long weeks, the siege had been now proceeding, but without the most distant chance of success to Ginkle and his myrmidons, had treason, on the one side and want of confidence and union on the other, done the work of Ireland's enemies. Eain had been falling in torrents for some time; a high wind had accompanied it. However, on the night of the 23rd of September, two nights after the fatal event at Thomond Bridge, a parley was beaten by the Irish drummers as well in the English-town as in the Irishtown. The rain and wind now ceased, — and as if the lull of the elements was the forerunner of a truce, at least in the strife which had raged so furiously for so long a time, Wauchop and Sarsfield, who were beyond the river at this time, proceeded to Ginkle, who was at the same place also ; Colonel Ruth had previously gone towards Mackey's fort, where Lord Drogheda's horse were posted ; but Talmash referred him to Scravemore and the Marquis De Euvigny. A cessation was that night concluded ; but though it was, the WiUiamites entertained no idea that they could possess themselves of the city ; but divided councils, treason, English gold and all artful contrivances, which have left Ireland a prey to disastrous fate at aU times, had now nearly done their work; and it only remained for Sarsfield and his adherents to make the best terms they could with a faithless foe which had never yet observed honor in its dealings with the Irish. If in 1C90, William in person had been beaten back from the waUs of Limerick, and had been forced to fly from a city which in its then wretched phght was able to withstand his picked guards and legions, surely Ginkle should have had the same tale to tell, if not a worse one, had not Lutterel and Clifford, and the French Major, and all the other traitors perjured themselves in the face of every high principle.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 145

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere around here, on the night of the 23rd of September, two nights after the fatal event at Thomond Bridge, Irish drummers beat a parley in both the English-town and the Irish-town. The siege had been going for six long weeks. Rain had been falling in torrents, with a high wind. But that night the rain and wind ceased, as if the lull in the weather was the forerunner of a truce. The Irish commanders had been fighting against odds. The cannon still poured its raking fire from the King's Castle and the batteries about the bridge on the Williamite soldiers, and more of them fell beneath Irish shot and shell than has been admitted. But the position was discouraging. Lutterel and Clifford, traitors in the Irish camp, were now in prison awaiting a court-martial for their treachery. Other deserters went over to Ginkle, among them Colonel Corbet, who promised that Tyrconnell's and Galnoy's regiments were prepared to join him. Wauchop and Sarsfield, who were beyond the river, proceeded to Ginkle, who was at the same place. Colonel Ruth had gone towards Mackey's fort, where Lord Drogheda's horse were posted, but Talmash referred him to Scravemore and the Marquis de Ruvigny. A cessation was concluded that night. The Williamites had no idea they could possess the city. Divided councils, treason, English gold, and all artful contrivances had nearly done their work, and it only remained for Sarsfield and his adherents to make the best terms they could with a faithless foe which had never yet observed honour in its dealings with the Irish.

24. Refuge beyond Thomond Bridge during siege

    Thomond Bridge · street · Limerick · 1691

    During the siege of Limerick, many people found refuge beyond Thomond Bridge. State records were kept there, and principal judges including Sir Stephen Rice dwelt there, along with the Archbishop of Cashel and other high personages.

    Read the passage

    As the shot and shell of the enemy poured in and uprooted the pavement of the streets, multitudes of women and children were provided with a refuge in the Kiug^s Island, which remained in the hands of the defenders, though many fruitless attacks had been made upon it. Tents made up of whatever was available, were pitched where Ireton had been forty years before ; many too found refuge beyond Thomond Bridge. It was here that many of the state records were kept, that the principal judges of the land, including Sir Stephen Eice, Chief Baron of the Exchequer, and one of the Lords Commissioners of the Treasury, dwelt during the occasion;^ as well as the Archbishop of Cashel, and several of the highest personages, civil and ecclesiastical.

    " Swine herds,'^ " cow boys,'''' " Irish cut throats,''^^ was the common name by which the native Irish were designated; but the epithets were far more applicable to those who so freely used them than to the natives.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 135

25. Anti-Catholic voter disqualification in 1731 Limerick election

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1731

    At a general election in Limerick, several freemen had their votes challenged or disqualified for having Catholic wives, attending mass, or converting to Catholicism. The objections reflected the pervasive religious test applied in civic life.

    Read the passage

    To illustrate this state of things, a general electionhad occurred a little before this time (1731), and as usual on such occasions, excitement prevailed. The rival candidates for the city of Limerick were Mr. Charles Smyth, son of the Bishop, and a Mr. Rawson. Among the freemen who recorded their votes for Eawson was one David Parker, who was objected to because his wife was a papist. 1 Parker had offered to swear that he never knew his wife to be of any other than the Protestant persuasion ; but the objection was insisted on, and it need hardly be added that it prevailed. George Howe, freeman, was objected to also, and his vote reserved for scrutiny, " he having a Popish wife." Eobert Napper, freeman, was objected to for the same cause ; and Jasper Chievers, freeman, was " reserved for the scrutiny for turning from ye Protestant to ye Popish religion •/' whilst William IveUy, freeman, was equally objected to and ordered to attend the scrutiny, because " he went to mass, wliich he denied, but confessed that he read liis recantation.''''^ These were the happy times and enlightened days, when religion was madethe stalkinghorse of mere faction.^

    It was a specific duty on the part of the candidate that he should enrol himself in the guilds of trade ; and accordingly we find Mr. Charles Smyth admitted by " the Master, Wardens, and Elders of the Society of Victuallers of Limerick, to all the privileges, franchises, &c. of the Society."^ He was also admitted a member of the Cordwayner's Society, of which Robert Wilson was the Master. It is scarcely necessary to add that these guilds were true blue, real Orange, and that they exercised powerful influence on the fate of

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 184

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Limerick, this city holds a story from the general election of 1731. The rival candidates were Charles Smyth, son of the Bishop, and a Mr. Rawson, and excitement ran high as it always did on such occasions. Among the freemen who voted for Rawson was David Parker. He was objected to because his wife was a papist. Parker offered to swear that he never knew his wife to be of any other than the Protestant persuasion, but the objection was insisted on, and it prevailed. George Howe, a freeman, was objected to as well, and his vote reserved for scrutiny, he having a Popish wife. Robert Napper, a freeman, was objected to for the same cause. Jasper Chievers, a freeman, was reserved for the scrutiny for turning from the Protestant to the Popish religion. William Kelly, a freeman, was equally objected to and ordered to attend the scrutiny, because he went to mass, which he denied, but confessed that he read his recantation. The author of the record calls these the times when religion was made the stalking horse of mere faction. It was also a specific duty of a candidate to enrol himself in the guilds of trade. Charles Smyth was admitted by the Master, Wardens, and Elders of the Society of Victuallers of Limerick to all the privileges and franchises of that society. He was admitted as well to the Cordwayner's Society, where Robert Wilson was the Master. These guilds, the record says, were true blue, real Orange, and they exercised powerful influence on the fate of elections.

26. Baron of Loughmoe forfeits title and property

    Loughmoe · electoral division · Tipperary

    Purcell, Baron of Loughmoe, though a commissioner for the Treaty of Limerick and specially privileged to avail of its articles, chose to depart for France with King James, thereby forfeiting his title and property.

    Read the passage

    Purcell, Baron of Loughmoe, though one of the commissioners for arranging the Treaty of surrender, and who was specially privileged to avail himself of the articles of Limerick, preferred to proceed to France with King James, and thus he incurred the forfeiture of his title and property.^ It is supposed that the attainder of Lord Galmoy occurred for the same cause. These titles have not been revived.

    Irish regiments in the French service, died at Prague, in Bohemia — He was commonly called Lord Clare.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 157

27. Battle of Dysert O'Dea and death of Lord Clare, 1318

    Dysert · townland · Clare · 1318

    In 1318 at the Battle of Dysert O'Dea, Richard Lord Clare with four knights and eighty men were slain by MacCarthy and O'Brien. Lord Clare was interred among the Friars in St. Francis's Abbey, Limerick.

    Read the passage

    1318, Battle of Dysert O^Dea, Richard Lord Clare, with four knights and eighty men were slain by MacCarthy and O'Brien. Lord Clare was interred among the Friars in St. Francis's Abbey, Limerick. The name of De Clare now disappears from Irish history ; but not from the locahty of Bunratty w'here the great castle was built, because we find to tliis day certain members of the Studdert family bearing the name of De Clare.

    Returning to the Civil History of Lunerick, in 1331, Mam-ice FitzThomas, Earl of Desmond, was apprehended in the city on Assumption Day, by Sir Anthony Lucy, the Lord President, and sent to the Castle of Dublin. In the next year some followers of Desmond, who had been confined in the King's Castle, rose on the Constable, killed him, and seized the Castle into theii' own hands. Bamberry the ]\Iayor, headed the citizens, and showed such courage, presence and resolution, that they soon recovered the Castle, repaying the hostages in a manner so hostile that they put them to the sword without exception, irrespectively of rank or quality.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 38

28. Bishop Knox discovers vocalist Catherine Hayes

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1830–1849

    Bishop Edmund Knox, who was translated from Killaloe to Limerick on the death of Bishop Jebb, first discovered the powers of the famous vocalist Miss Catherine Hayes. She owed her musical education to him.

    Read the passage

    ' 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, this city has a link to Catherine Hayes. It was Bishop Knox, translated here from Killaloe after Bishop Jebb died, who first discovered the powers of the famous vocalist Miss Catherine Hayes. She owed her musical education to him.

29. Bishop Lacy imprisoned in Cork jail

    Cork · city · Cork · 1580

    Dr. Lacy, Bishop of Limerick, was confined in Cork jail, fled thence to France during the reign of Edward, returned under Mary, and died in prison under Elizabeth. He was reckoned among the confessors of the faith.

    Read the passage

    Dr. Lacy is also said to'have resigned in L371 ; but the real fact is, that he was dejjrived of the temporalities, continuing as before to exercise his spiritual jurisdiction till the time of his death. Dr.Moran, in the introduction to his Lives of the ArchbisJwps of Dublin, writes: " We find him (Dr. Lacy) petitioning the Holy See for special faculties for his diocese in 1575 ; and the same year we find the Holy See expediting these faculties for ' Hugo Epus. Limericensis', and on account of the wants of the Irish Church,°tliese faculties are further granted to him for the whole province of Cashel, ' quamdiu ven. frater noster Archiepus. Cassellensis a sua diocesi et ecclesia et universa provincia abfuerit'. Indeed so high was the esteem in which Dr. Lacy was held at Rome that he was selected by the Holy See to recommend members of the Irish Church for the vacant sees. The see of Limerick, in 1580, is described in a Vatican list as vacant ' per obitum D. Ugonis Lacy in sua ecclesia defuncti' . Thus", continues Dr. Moran, " by the so-called resignation of Dr. Lacy, the temporal possessions of the see were, indeed, merged in the Estabhshed Church, but the hierarchical succession remained unchanged, and both clergy and people continued attached to the faith of their fathers". The concluding years of Dr. Lacy's life are thus summed up by the Rev. Dr. M'Carthy, in his valuable chapter on the Irish bishops from 15ot) to 1600, subjoined to his edition of the late Rev. M. Kelly, D.D.'s Dissertaiions on Irish Church History. " He, like his predecessors, was deprived, and died in 1580 (according to White's JNIS. p. 52) after three years' imprisonment. He was confined in Cork jail, as Bruodin informs us, fled thence to France in the reign of Edward, returned under Mary, and died in prison under Elizabeth. Rothe, pars 3*^'^, p. 4, reckons him among the confessors of the faith".

    On the death of William Casey, who was restored by Queen Elizabeth,^ and to whom the first Protestant dean, viz., Denis Campbell, a native of

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 335

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Cork, the city holds a story from 1580. Dr. Lacy, Bishop of Limerick, was confined in the jail here. He died in prison that year, after three years of imprisonment, under the reign of Elizabeth. His life had turned with the times. He fled from this jail to France during the reign of Edward, returned under Mary, and died in prison under Elizabeth. The Holy See held him in high esteem. In 1575 he petitioned Rome for special faculties for his diocese, and Rome granted them, and further granted him faculties for the whole province of Cashel, for as long as the Archbishop of Cashel was absent from his diocese and province. He was selected by the Holy See to recommend members of the Irish Church for vacant sees. He had been deprived of the temporalities of his see, but he continued to exercise his spiritual jurisdiction until his death. Dr. Moran writes that by the so-called resignation of Dr. Lacy, the temporal possessions of the see were merged in the Established Church, but the hierarchical succession remained unchanged, and both clergy and people continued attached to the faith of their fathers. A Vatican list in 1580 described the see of Limerick as vacant by the death of Hugo Lacy, defunct in his own church. Rothe reckons him among the confessors of the faith.

30. Brian encamps at Kilmainham before Danish threat

    Kilmainham · townland · Dublin

    Finding the movements of the Danes menacing, Brian took the field again, devastating the territory of Ossory in his march, and pitched his camp in the locality known as Kilmainham before returning to Kincora with his spoils.

    Read the passage

    was compelled once more to take the field; and having devastated the territory of Ossory in his march, pitched his camp in the locahty at present known as Kilmainham. Having returned, however, to Kincora with his spoils, the Danes, encouraged by his absence, and recovering from the severe defeats which they had sustained from his son Morrogh, had summoned their allies from Scotland, from the Orkneys, from the Hebrides, from the Shetland Islands, from the Islands of the Baltic, and even from Denmark, Norway and other parts of Scandinavia, inviting the northern pirates to make a common effort for the complete subjugation of Ireland. The summons was obeyed with alacrity.

    On Palm Sunday, the 18th April, 1014, a powerful fleet, containing the contingents furnished from all parts of the world where the Danes resided, including some Norman, French, Belgians, and Britons from Wales and Cornwall, arrived in the bay of Dublin, under the command of Brodar, the Danish admiral. — The entire of these combined forces amounted to 12,000 men, and their Irish allies, the Lagenians, numbered 9,000, in aU 21,000 men — the Lagenians being funiished by the counties of Wexford, Carlow, Wicklow, and Kildare, with part of the Queen^s and King's County, the Princes of which were in aUiauce "with the Danes, and related by blood to Sitric, King of Dublin, whose mother, Gormlaith or Kormloda, the repudiated wife of Brian Boru, is said to have invited the noted pirates, Brodar and Upsoeus, or Upsacus, to join the confederacy against her royal consort.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 15

31. Catholic parishioners of St. Michael's support Emancipation

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1824

    On 21 June 1824, Catholic parishioners of St. Michael's met in the parish church and adopted resolutions to sustain the collection of the Catholic Rent. The parish was divided into districts with subscriptions ranging from one penny to two shillings per month.

    Read the passage

    Concurrently with these improvements and projects, the Catholics of Limerick began to take energetic measures to join in the struggle for Emancipation : O'Connell had already established the Catholic Association, and projected the Catholic Eent. Limerick immediately threw its weight into the scale. On the 2 1st of June, 1824, a meeting of the Catholic parishioners of St. Michaers was held in the Parish Church ; resolutions were unanimously adopted to sustain the collection of the Catholic Eent, which was set on foot and pushed with vigorous alacrity. The parish was divided into districts ; the subscription was not less than one penny, or more than two shillings per month, from each contributor. A few days after the estabhshment of the Association in Limerick, a solemn service was celebrated in the same parish church for the repose of the soul of Francis Arthur, Esq., who had lately died at Dunkirk, in France, and of whose trial and sufferings, and escape from an imminent death at the hands of military executioners and civic plotters, we have given an account in a preceding chapter.

    The Protestants of Limerick were, generally speaking, in favor of an adjustment of the Catholic claims ; there was, they said, but little use in

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 262

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Limerick, you are moving through a city that threw its weight behind the struggle for Catholic Emancipation. O'Connell had already established the Catholic Association and projected the Catholic Rent, and Limerick immediately joined in. On the 21st of June, 1824, a meeting of the Catholic parishioners of St. Michael's was held in the parish church. Resolutions were unanimously adopted to sustain the collection of the Catholic Rent, which was set on foot and pushed with vigorous alacrity. The parish was divided into districts. The subscription was not less than one penny, or more than two shillings per month, from each contributor. A few days after the establishment of the Association in Limerick, a solemn service was celebrated in the same parish church for the repose of the soul of Francis Arthur, who had lately died at Dunkirk in France. He had faced trial and sufferings, and had escaped from an imminent death at the hands of military executioners and civic plotters. The Protestants of Limerick were, generally speaking, in favor of an adjustment of the Catholic claims. There was, they said, but little use in resisting them further.

32. Count Solmes at Cashel receives letter on prisoner treatment

    Cashel · town · Tipperary · 1690

    Count Solmes, commander-in-chief of William's army, was stationed at Cashel where he received a letter from the Duke of Berwick at Limerick. The letter complained of a design to transport prisoners to foreign plantations as slaves and threatened French galleys in retaliation.

    Read the passage

    Count Solmes, who commanded in chief, was in Cashel at this time, where he received a letter by a trumpeter from the Duke of Berwick, then at Limerick, complaining that they had heard of a design of William, to transport the prisoners who had been taken at several places, to become slaves in the foreign plantations ; and withal, threatening them with the French galleys. This was said to be a feint or stratagem of the Irish oflicers, to prevent their soldiers deserting, making them believe there was a contract to sell them all to Mons. Perara a Jew for so much bread. Count Solmes sent a reply to the Duke's letter, in which he denied the allegation, but threatened reprisals if wrong were done to the prisoners in the hands of the Irish. Soon after this Solmes went to England, and Ginkle was made Lieutenant-General, and Commander-in-Chief of the army, who went to his head quarters at Kilkenny.

    During these events the castle of Nenagh was taken, and the town set on fire, notwithstanding a determined resistance on the part of the defenders and the people. Diu'ing the siege Colonel Evans commanded the County of Limerick regiment of militia, and his Ufe was saved by the merest accident.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 139

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Cashel, this is where Count Solmes was stationed in 1690. He commanded William's army in chief, and it was here he received a letter brought by a trumpeter from the Duke of Berwick, who was at Limerick. The letter complained that they had heard of a design by William to transport prisoners, taken at several places, to become slaves in the foreign plantations. With that, Berwick threatened them with the French galleys. This was said to be a feint or stratagem by the Irish officers, to prevent their soldiers from deserting. They made the soldiers believe there was a contract to sell them all to one Monsieur Perara, a Jew, for so much bread. Count Solmes sent a reply to the Duke's letter. He denied the allegation, but threatened reprisals if any wrong were done to the prisoners held by the Irish. Soon after this, Solmes went to England, and Ginkle was made Lieutenant-General and Commander-in-Chief of the army, who went to his headquarters at Kilkenny. During these events, the castle of Nenagh was taken and the town set on fire, despite determined resistance from the defenders and the people. Colonel Evans commanded the County of Limerick regiment of militia during the siege, and his life was saved by the merest accident.

33. Desolation of Munster from Dunquin to Cashel

    near Dunquin · parish · Kerry · 1580–1583

    The Annals of the Four Masters describe the devastation of the Desmond wars across Munster, noting that neither the lowing of a cow nor the voice of a ploughman could be heard from Dunqueen (Dunquin) in western Kerry to Cashel.

    Read the passage

    The annals of the Four Masters are almost equally graphic in their description of the ravages caused by these wars, when " it was commonly said that the lowing of a cow or the voice of the ploughman could scarcely be heard from Duncaoin, (now Dunqueen, the most western part of Kerry) to Cashel in Munster/^

    Further persecutions and murders of Priests and religious were now perpetrated. Andrew Strich, a Priest, a native of Limerick, who studied in Paris, laboured greatly in the mission of Ireland, at length was taken and confined in Dublin, where he died with the hardships.^

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 65

34. Famine and pestilence ravage Limerick during siege

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1651

    Ireton's summons for surrender was rejected even though famine and pestilence were killing citizens more effectively than shot and shell. Many distinguished citizens died of the plague within the besieged walls, where Brothers of St. Vincent de Paul helped sustain the defenders' resolve.

    Read the passage

    An immediate summons sent in by Ireton for the surrender of the city, was promptly rejected, though at the time, famine and pestilence were doing their deadly work with a greater facihty, than shot and shell did subsequently. At this eventful period Edmund O'Dwyer, Terence Albert O^Brien and all the good men and true of the time, were congregated within the plague-stricken walls, and with the aid of the Brothers of St. Vincent de Paul who were then in Limerick, caused the citizens to be firm. Again the summons was rejected.

    Then came the question of a treaty — this was discussed; and six commissioners were appointed on each side, viz. : for cause of country and faith, Major-General Purcell, Mr. Stackpoole, the Recorder, Colonel Butler, Jeffrey Barron, who had been one of the supreme council, Mr. Baggot, and Alderman Fanning. The commissioners nominated by Ireton were, Major-General Waller, Colonel Cranwell, Major Smith, Adjutant-General Allen, and another.^

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 97

    As the companion tells it

    The road brings you through Limerick. In 1651, Ireton sent an immediate summons for the surrender of the city. It was promptly rejected, though famine and pestilence were doing their deadly work with greater effect than shot and shell would manage afterward. Edmund O'Dwyer, Terence Albert O'Brien, and the good men of the time were gathered within the plague-stricken walls. The Brothers of St. Vincent de Paul, then in the city, helped the citizens stand firm. The summons was rejected again. Then came the question of a treaty. It was discussed, and six commissioners were appointed on each side. For the cause of country and faith: Major-General Purcell, Mr. Stackpoole the Recorder, Colonel Butler, Jeffrey Barron, who had been one of the supreme council, Mr. Baggot, and Alderman Fanning. Ireton nominated Major-General Waller, Colonel Cranwell, Major Smith, Adjutant-General Allen, and another.

35. Father O'Donnell executed in Cork

    Cork · city · Cork · 1575

    Father Edmond O'Donnell, a Jesuit, was dragged from Limerick to Cork by troopers with his hands bound, and there found guilty of being a priest and refusing the oath of supremacy. He was hanged, drawn, and quartered on the eve of St. Patrick's Day, 1575.

    Read the passage

    The next member of the illustrious order, a native of Limerick, was Father Edmond O'Donnell, S.J., who was sent to Ireland by Gregory XIII., and Father General Everard Mercarian. He was imprisoned in his native city, loaded with irons, insults, and blows. ^ He was thence dragged and driven to Cork, with his hands bound behind his back, by hrutal troopers, and there being found guilty of being a priest and a Jesuit, and of refusing to take the oath of supremacy, he was " torn, hanged, drawn, and quartered", on the eve of St. Patrick's Day, 1575.

    He was calm in all his sufferings, and after his sentence he was overwhelmed with unbounded joy. Father O'Donnell was the first martyr of the Society of Jesus in the British Isles ; he was the first of the ten Irish fathers who suffered death for the faith, and Father Wolf was the first of the forty who were imprisoned and tortured for the same faith.^

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 379

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Cork, you are travelling the city where Father Edmond O'Donnell was put to death in 1575. He was a Jesuit, a native of Limerick, sent to Ireland by Gregory XIII and Father General Everard Mercarian. He was imprisoned in his own city, loaded with irons, insults, and blows. Then troopers dragged and drove him from Limerick to Cork, his hands bound behind his back. In Cork he was found guilty of being a priest and a Jesuit, and of refusing to take the oath of supremacy. He was, in the words of the source, "torn, hanged, drawn, and quartered," on the eve of St. Patrick's Day, 1575. He was calm through all his sufferings, and after his sentence he was overwhelmed with unbounded joy. Father O'Donnell was the first martyr of the Society of Jesus in the British Isles, and the first of ten Irish fathers who suffered death for the faith.

36. Ireton seizes O'Brien's Bridge through treachery

    near O'Brien's Bridge · town · Clare · 1651

    Through the treachery of Captain Kelly, Ireton made himself master of O'Brien's Bridge, a crossing point on the Shannon. Castlehaven hastened to oppose him but was undermined by Fennel's simultaneous betrayal at Killaloe.

    Read the passage

    Ireton, soon after this correspondence, by the treachery of Captain Kelly, made himseK master of O'Brien's Bridge ; and whilst Castlehaven was hastening to oppose him. Colonel Fennel, to whom the pass at Killaloe had been entrusted, treacherously deserted it, and fled into the city of Limerick with his soldiery — he had sold the pass. Just before this event, as if he had intended to divert the course of the river, Ireton had set the soldiers and pioneers at work to take the ground lower on his (Ireton's) side, that the water venting itseK into the passage, the river might become fordable. This so alarmed the Confederate forces that the most of them were drawn out to oppose them. The ways were almost impassable from bogs and morasses, hither neither man nor horse could pass without peril, so that they were obHged to lay hurdles and great pieces of timber across, in order to bear the carriages, waggons, &c., of the Parliamentary forces, which they effected under pretence of making a passable road between their camp and Castle Connel, where, as we have seen, provisions had been already laid up for the

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 96

37. Legend of the wise women of Mungret

    Mungret · town · Limerick

    The well-known legend of the 'wise women of Mungret' tells of monks who disguised themselves in female attire and frightened away by their extraordinary learning certain professors from Lismore who had come to test it. A pond where the professors pretended to be washing is still shown locally.

    Read the passage

    must have been built somewhat in the style of Columbkill's House at Kells, St. Molua's at Killaloe, and St. Kevin's at Glendalough, was like these venerable stmctures, probably covered with large slate-like stones, several of which have been turned up in the field immediately adjacent to the building. The well known legend of the " wise women of Mungret", monks who disguised themselves in female attire, and who frightened away by their extraordinary learning certain professors from Lismore, who had come to test it, is familiar to every person in the vicinage. It is illustrative too of the admiration always felt for martial prowess by the Irish, that those soldier monks, the Knights Templars, who occupied the old Castle of Mungret, are still spoken of with great reverence in the neighbourhood, not only for their piety but their warlike spirit. If tradition can be relied on, they occasionally did garrison duty at Carrig-o-gunnell, and were well disposed, if not actually bound by engagement, to render military service when called on.'

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 310

38. Limestone dallan on Knocklong hill summit

    Knocklong · town · Limerick

    A limestone standing stone (dallan) about 4 ft 13 in thick stands on the summit of Knocklong hill, on the edge of a limestone precipice, in peril of falling. Nothing is known of its history. A local tradition holds that a king encamped on the plain below and his troops, distressed by drought, were saved by a druid whose javelin strike created a spring.

    Read the passage

    On the summit of the hill, in a field to the south west, there is a lime stone dallan about four feet thirteen inches thick. It stands now on the edge of a lime-stone precipice, and is in peril. Nothing is known of its history. A countryman who accosted me with a " God save you, Sir", pointed out on a plain to the north-west where the king, he said, had encamped. He did not know who the king was, but he believed he was king of the " Dandonians". He said the troops were terribly distressed for water in consequence of a great drought, but that a druid relieved them by shooting up a sleagh or javelin into the air, and where it fell there flowed out a beautifiil spring of water, which still flows. This is the well of Curraheen, at the north-east foot of the hill. From the foot of the hill also, on to Emly, in the east, whose spire was plainly visible to me from where I stood, had been, for a long time, one broad lake. Another person told me that where the druid stood was on Sliabh Riach, at the south, the dark heathy ridge which bounded my view in that direction. Between me and the Galtees he pointed out the hill of Dun Tri Liag, as also Clareen, two miles to the west.

    On the plain at some short distance from the foot of the hill, we visited a moat, a structure to be scarcely met with in Cork or Kerry. It is a variety of the lios, which it nearly altogether supersedes in the midland counties. This moat is called Lios Cnoc Luinga, or the Lios of Knocklong. Jt has no rampart, but is surrounded with a deep fosse. The area is about fifty-six feet diameter, and the mound itself about twenty feet in height, from bottom to fosse. The gap is at the south-east.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 433

39. Lord President holds court at Ennis, reduces Dalcassians

    Ennis · town · Clare · 1577

    The Lord President of Munster visited Thomond accompanied by a great multitude of English and chiefs of Munster, holding a court for eight days at Ennis. When the Dalcassians refused to pay tribute, he left a marshal with troops to reduce them, then returned to Limerick and beheaded chieftains and rebels of the districts adjacent to Limerick.

    Read the passage

    In the year 1576, Thomond according to the annals of the Pour Masters was separated from Connaught and jomed to Munster. The annals for the year 1577, which is memorable for the massacre of the men of Leix and some of the Keatings at Mullaghmast by the English, aided, some say, by the ©""Dempseys, mention a visit paid to Thomond at this period by the Lord President, accompanied by a great multitude of the Enghsh and the chiefs of the two provinces of Munster, on which occasion he held a court for eight days at Ennis, and " the Dalgais having refused to become tributary to their sovereign, he left,"*' says the annalist, " a marshal with a vigorous and merciless body of troops to reduce them. The President then returned to Limerick, and proceeded to behead the chieftains and rebels of the districts adjacent to Limerick : amongst these was Murrough the son of Murtough, son of Mahon, son of Donough, son of Brian Duv O'Brien, the most renowned and noble of the heirs of Carraigh O'Coinnell and Eatherlah," now Carrick O'Gunnell and the Glen of Aherlow, in the county of Tipperary.'

    In this year Thomas Leary, Catholic Bishop of Kildare died in banishment.^ The Earl of Thomond, Conor O'Brien, m the same year, according to the annals of the Four Masters, went to England to complain to the queen of his distresses and oppression, and obtained a charter of his territory and towns, and also a general pardon for his people. He received great honor

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 60

40. St. Patrick's Chapel foundations laid in Clare Street, Limerick

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1816

    Early in 1816, the foundations of the new Chapel of St. Patrick's were laid in Clare Street under the direction of Rev. Patrick Magrath, P.P. The Dominicans also undertook building a noble church in Glentworth Street, which became the largest in the city for a long period.

    Read the passage

    observe the exertions which the Catholics of Limerick continued to make, in order to provide themselves with commodious churches. Early in the year, the foundations of the new Chapel of St. Patrick's were laid in Clare-street, under the directions of the Eev. Patrick Magrath, P.P. ; and the Dominicans, who had been for many years confined to their small chapel in Fish Lane, undertook the building of a noble church in Glentwort.h-street, which, for a long period, was the largest in the city ; the Rev. Patrick Harrogan, O.P. was prior at the time; and many of the principal Catholic citizens aided him in the project.

    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.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 249

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Limerick, early in 1816 the Catholics of the city were working to provide themselves with proper churches. The foundations of the new Chapel of St. Patrick's were laid in Clare Street, under the direction of the Reverend Patrick Magrath, the parish priest. At the same time, the Dominicans, who had been confined for many years to their small chapel in Fish Lane, undertook the building of a noble church in Glentworth Street. For a long period it was the largest in the city. The Reverend Patrick Harrogan was prior at the time, and many of the principal Catholic citizens aided him in the project. Elsewhere that year, the mills on the north bank of the canal, built by Messrs. Welsh and Uzuld, had become almost a ruin. Messrs. Walker and Company of Cork 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 long.

41. Ancient marble chimney-piece discovered in Limerick lane

    Broad Street · street · Limerick · 1641–1650

    A magnificent red and white marble chimney-piece, sculptured with the arms of the Roche family and bearing the initials C.R., was discovered in a narrow lane between Broad Street, John Street, and Curry's Lane in Limerick. It dates to the mid-17th century, indicating the costly taste of citizens during the mayoralty of Pyers Creagh Fitz Andrew, before Ireton's siege of Limerick.

    Read the passage

    While speaking of families, I may here note a curious discovery recently made in one of those very narrow and miserable lanes that run between Broadstreet, and John-street, and Curry's-lane, of what had been some few hundred years ago a magnificent chimney-piece, made of richly grained red and white marble, massive and beautiful ; it is now fixed over the fire-place in a room of one of the houses in this narrow lane, it is about ten feet in width ; about five and a half in height : the architrave is nearly two feet in breadth ; and on it are sculptured, in relief, on the extreme right, the arms of the Roche family on a floriated shield : a bird with outspread wings perched on a rock forms the crest and tops a shield — underneath, on the face of the shield, are three roches nayanU — at either side of the crest are the letters C. R : — at the extreme left of the architrave are the arms of a family, which I am unable to indentify by reference to the contemporary matter written in the MSS of Dr. Thomas Arthur ; but these arms also are beautifully sculptured in relief on a floriated shield Hkewise. The crest is formed, neither of bird or animal, but of something which appears to be a warlike weapon — underneath are the arms, a hound passant, and on eitlier side are the words S. B. In the middle of the architrave, between the two floriated shields, are the initial letters I: H: S: a cross on the H is a Prench cross, tri-foliated, and the letters are foliated also. Underneath is the figure of the Sacred Heart pierced with three swords. The pillars on which the

    • Now Viscount Clanbrassil — De Burgo Hib. Domin , p. 719.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 195

    As the companion tells it

    Along here, in one of those narrow lanes that run between Broad Street, John Street, and Curry's Lane, a curious discovery was made not long ago. A magnificent chimney-piece of richly grained red and white marble, massive and beautiful, was found, dating from the mid-1600s, the time of the mayoralty of Pyers Creagh Fitz Andrew, before Ireton's siege of Limerick. It had stood there some few hundred years and is now fixed over the fireplace in a room of one of the houses in the lane. It is about ten feet in width and five and a half in height. The architrave is nearly two feet in breadth. On the extreme right, sculptured in relief on a floriated shield, are the arms of the Roche family. A bird with outspread wings perched on a rock forms the crest. Underneath, on the face of the shield, are three roches. At either side of the crest are the letters C.R. At the extreme left of the architrave are the arms of a family which cannot be identified by reference to the manuscripts of Dr. Thomas Arthur. These arms are also sculptured in relief on a floriated shield. The crest is neither bird nor animal but something which appears to be a warlike weapon. Underneath are the arms, a hound passant, and on either side are the words S.B. In the middle of the architrave, between the two floriated shields, are the initial letters I.H.S. A cross on the H is a French cross, tri-foliated, and the letters are foliated also. Underneath is the figure of the Sacred Heart pierced with three swords.

42. Bishop O'Dea enfeoffs Scattery Island lands

    Scattery Island · townland · Clare · 1542

    Bishop Cornelius O'Dea enfeoffed Lord Gilbert O'Caithell with lands belonging to Limerick recovered from Scattery Island, requiring annual rent of twelve pence and hospitality obligations for episcopal visits.

    Read the passage

    " I, Cornelius O'Dea, by the grace of God and the Apostolic See, have enfeofed the Lord Gilbert O'Caithell (formerly of the lands belonging to Limerick, from that island of Iniscathy, which [lands] I have recovered by inquisition taken by me, which were not before me, for many years, in the possession of the Church), under this form, viz. : That the said Gilbert and his heirs should [debeat] pay to my assigns and his successors canonically entering, every year in the name of revenue, [as rent] twelve pence, viz., one half at Easter, and one half at the feast of St. Michael ; and on whatever night I or my successors shall first put into said island, they should refresh us with meat and drink and all other necessary things ; and as long thereafter as I or my successors shall tarry therein, they shall supply fire, light, and straw, at their own cost and expense, and carry us victuals by Avater, at our expense, and in boats, and by labourers of their own, from Limerick and the out villages (viU(S forales) of the said diocese, to wit, only to all our manors of Lesamkyle, Dromdile, Mongret, and Limerick".

    What is said here of Iniscathy I have read from an ancient roll extracted from the Black Book of the bishops of Limerick in the time of John Quin, the first Protestant bishop of Limerick — [N.B. This must be a mistake, for John Quin, or Coyn, Avas a Catholic, and was deposed by Edward VI. for being such, and Casey, a Protestant, put in his place]. — The day after St. Michael the Archangel, A.D. 1542. Therefore I know not by what right it is said that Iniscatha now belongs to the diocese of Limerick.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 325

43. Bishop O'Kearney's open ordination despite penal laws

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1761

    Dr. O'Kearney, Catholic Bishop of Limerick, held his first ordination openly on 15 May 1761, conferring minor orders and subdeaconship on four candidates despite the penal laws still being in force. He also witnessed the demolition of Limerick's ancient city walls and the commencement of the new town by Edmund Sexton Pery.

    Read the passage

    The Rev. Denis Conway (afterwards Bishop of Limerick) was appointed by Papal bull, parish priest of St. Patrick's, on the promotion of Dr. O'Kearney, who was a zealous, learned, and active prelate, thoroughly versed in the canons and in Scripture, an accomphshed theologian, of kindly and simple manners, but possessed of that strong masculine common sense which enabled him to surmount the difficulties at the critical time, of his aj^pointment and during his episcopacy, of a dangerous position. Dr. O'Kearney held his first ordination of subjects for his diocese on the 15th May, 1761, being Friday of Whitsuntide, Quatuor Tense. On this occasion he exercised his sacred functions openly, notwithstanding the highly penal character of prohibitory laws^ which were not as yet repealed, and conferred minor orders and subdeaconship on four young candidates for the ministry, who on the following day received deaconship, and on the Sunday next succeeding, priesthood. Dr. O'Kearney witnessed the demolition of the ancient walls of the city, and the commencement of the new town by Edmund Sexton Pery, and many other changes in the social and political aspect of his generation. He attended a meeting of the bishops of Munster, which was convened by the Most Rev. Dr. Butler, Archbishop of Cashel, near Cork, on the IStli of July, 1775, in consequence of the act 13 and 14 George III., which enabled subjects of all denominations to testify their allegiance upon oath.

    Many Catholics firmly declined to take the oath prescribed by that Act of Parliament, not alone because it was insulting in its language, but, as they conceived, because it was in downright opposition to what they believed to be their conscientious principles. To counteract this view on their part, and to satisfy the scruples of the people and clergy, the Most Rev. Dr. Butler called together the Bishops of Munster, and at this meeting the following declaration was agreed to and subscribed by Dr. O'Kearney, as well as by the other bishops : —

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 359

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Limerick, the city carries a story from 1761, when the penal laws against Catholics were still in force. Dr. O'Kearney was the Catholic Bishop of Limerick, described as a zealous, learned, and active prelate, thoroughly versed in the canons and in Scripture, an accomplished theologian, of kindly and simple manners, but possessed of a strong masculine common sense which enabled him to surmount the difficulties of his position. On the 15th of May, 1761, being Friday of Whitsuntide, he held his first ordination of subjects for his diocese. He exercised his sacred functions openly, notwithstanding the highly penal character of prohibitory laws which were not as yet repealed. He conferred minor orders and subdeaconship on four young candidates for the ministry, who on the following day received deaconship, and on the Sunday next succeeding, priesthood. Dr. O'Kearney also witnessed the demolition of the ancient walls of the city, and the commencement of the new town by Edmund Sexton Pery, and many other changes in the social and political aspect of his generation. Later, on the 18th of July, 1775, he attended a meeting of the bishops of Munster, convened by the Most Rev. Dr. Butler, Archbishop of Cashel, near Cork. This was in consequence of the act of 13 and 14 George III, which enabled subjects of all denominations to testify their allegiance upon oath. Many Catholics firmly declined to take the oath, not alone because it was insulting in its language, but because they believed it was in opposition to their conscientious principles. To satisfy the scruples of the people and clergy, Dr. Butler called together the bishops, and at this meeting a declaration was agreed to and subscribed by Dr. O'Kearney and the other bishops.

44. Bishops meet at Tipperary to oppose royal subsidy

    Tipperary · town · Tipperary · 1346

    Archbishop Ralph Kelly of Cashel summoned a meeting of his suffragan bishops at Tipperary, where the bishops of Limerick, Emly, and Lismore appeared and fulminated excommunication against all who should contribute to the subsidy granted to King Edward III by the Kilkenny parliament of 1346.

    Read the passage

    Maurice de Rupe Forte, or Rochfort, succeeded to the episcopacy in the same year, and was consecrated on the 6th of April in Limerick. An information was exhibited against him for opposing the levying of a subsidy granted to the king, of which he was found guilty. It appears that, in 1346, a parhament was held at Kilkenny, which granted the subsidy to the king (Edward IIL), to support the exigencies of the state. Ralph Kelly, Archbishop of Cashel, opposed the levying of it within his province, and for that end summoned a meeting of his suffragan bishops at Tipperary, at which Maurice, Bishop of Limerick, Richard, Bishop of Emly, and John, Bishop of Lismore, appeared. They fulminated excommunication against all who should contribute to the subsidy; and at Clonmel the Archbishop appeared in the public streets, robed, and boldly published the decree of excommunication, particularly against William Epworth, the king's commissioner in the county of Tipperary, for gathering in the subsidy from the collectors. Maurice Rochfort was for some time deputy to Sir Thomas Rokeby, Lord Justice of L-eland, and according to Eriar Hogan's Annals ofNenagh (preserved in the Brundusian Library, Brussels), Maurice was " a man of good life and honest conversation". The mortmain laws were so strictly enforced during his episcopacy, that whereas Gerald le Marescal, above mentioned, in a.d. 127-| had purchased some lands for the see, without having previously obtained his license of mortmain, Edward HI. obliged Maurice Rochfort, in 1337, to pay a fine of twenty marks. An ancient rental of the Diocese of Limerick is attributed to Maurice Rochfort.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 326

45. Brunswick Club established at Rathkeale

    Rathkeale · town · Limerick · 1828

    As a counterpoise to O'Connell's victory, Brunswick Clubs were established throughout the country by the ascendancy party. A great meeting of the Limerick gentry took place at Rathkeale, where a Brunswick Club was initiated with Lord Muskerry as President.

    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

46. Castle Connell attacked and demolished

    Castleconnell · town · Limerick · 1690–1691

    Castle Connell was granted to De Burgo, described, attacked in 1690, and demolished by Ginkel during the Williamite campaign.

    Read the passage

    Castle Connell [see De Burgo) granted to De Burgo, 49 ; described, 7 ; attack upon (1690), 234 ; demolished by Ginkel, 256.

    Castleconnell, Lord John, his murder (1591), 121 ; attainted and fled (1641), 134.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 457

    As the companion tells it

    You are coming through Castleconnell now. Castle Connell was granted to De Burgo, and there was an attack upon it in 1690. Ginkel demolished it during the Williamite campaign. The place has older troubles too. Lord John Castleconnell was murdered in 1591, and he was attainted and fled in 1641.

47. Catholic exclusion from Limerick trade guilds

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1693–1700

    The trade guilds of Limerick, long composed largely of Catholic artisans, became instruments of Protestant ascendancy after the Treaty. No Catholic child was admitted to indentureship, and apprentices were required to be Protestant.

    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

48. Catholic mayors of Limerick deposed for refusing oath of supremacy

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1611–1612

    Starting in 1611, Catholic mayors and sheriffs elected by the Limerick corporation were repeatedly stripped of office for refusing to take the oath of supremacy and attend Protestant service. David Comyn was deposed as mayor, and the same fate befell William Meagh and his Catholic sheriffs in 1612.

    Read the passage

    In this year David Comyn Avas chosen mayor, but Edmund Sexten was in the same year, chosen also ; David FitzAYalter Eyce held the office of sheriff for six months. Christopher Creagh and Patrick Lyseiaght,^ the one for the entire time — the other for the five remaining months of the civil year. The cause of this was that Donat O'Brien, Lord of Thomond was made President of all Munster. Com}Ti who M^as true to his faith, was deposed from his office of Mayor, because he refused peremptorily to go to church, and take the oath of supremacy, he was seconded by Daniel Rice, one of the sheriffs, who also refused. Edmund Sexten was chosen mayor, and Patrick Lyseiaght and Christopher Creagh, who conformed, were made sheriffs.' Catholics, nevertheless, in defiance of the government were chosen mayors by the corporation ; but they were presented with the oath, which the moment they refused to take, they were deprived of office. The same thing occurred in the next year, 1612, when W^illiam Meagh or Mead was chosen mayor, and Patrick FitzHenry White and John Skeolan were sheriifs. They held office for four months. Christopher Creagh was then appointed mayor, he held office for eight months — and took the oath, but did not go

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 74

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Limerick, this is a city where, in 1611, the corporation kept electing Catholics as mayor, and the government kept stripping them of office. David Comyn was chosen mayor that year. He was true to his faith and refused outright to go to church or take the oath of supremacy, so he was deposed. Daniel Rice, one of the sheriffs, stood with him and also refused. Edmund Sexten was chosen mayor in his place, and Christopher Creagh and Patrick Lyseiaght, who conformed, were made sheriffs. The cause of all this was that Donat O'Brien, Lord of Thomond, had been made President of all Munster. Catholics in Limerick defied the government and kept being chosen mayor by the corporation, but the moment they were presented with the oath and refused it, they were deprived of office. The same happened the next year, 1612. William Meagh was chosen mayor, with Patrick FitzHenry White and John Skeolan as sheriffs. They held office for four months. Then Christopher Creagh was appointed mayor for the remaining eight months, and he took the oath, but did not go to church.

49. Chieftains between Carrigaholt and Carrigogunnell taking booty from merchant ships

    near Carrigaholt · townland · Clare · 1541–1542

    An inquisition in the 33rd year of Henry VIII's reign held in Limerick revealed that merchants complained of fraudulent impositions by old chieftains between Carrigaholt and Carrigogunnell, who boarded ships and took booty by way of tax.

    Read the passage

    * This was not the case at a more distant period, because we find by the inquisition in the reign of Henry VIIL, and held in Limerick in the thirty-third year of that reign, that wine was imported in immense quantities, and that merchants complained of the fraudulent impositions to which their property was subjected by the old chieftains between Carrigaholt and Carrigogunnell, who boarded the ships and took boot}' by way of tax from them. The inquisition has been given in a preceding chapter.

    3 The impatience of Lauzun and his countrymen to get away from Ireland is mentioned in a letter of Oct. 21, 1690, quoted in the Memoirs of James IL 420.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 124

50. Christian Brothers Schools established in Limerick

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1816–1865

    The Christian Brothers schools were extended to Limerick in 1816. By 1858 there were six schools in the city with 1,458 pupils, and by 1865 nearly 1,800 pupils in seventeen school-rooms. Schools were also established in Bruff, Adare, and Rathkeale.

    Read the passage

    Almost contemporaneously with the introduction of this great locomotive improvement, the extension of the Schools of the Christian Brothers to Limerick in 1816, took place. The institute which has conferred wonderful good on Society, was projected by Mr. Edmond Eice of Waterford, who in the year 1802, had submitted the plan of the proposed association to Pope Pius YII. by whom he was encouraged to proceed with it, and by whom it was eventually approved of and confirmed in 1820. Since that time the schools have rapidly extended, and continued to extend — and when the Commissioners who were appointed to enquire into the endowed schools in Ireland in 1858, made their examination, they visited the Christian Schools, though not endowed by the State, on the contrary, entirely separated from any state endowment whatever, and at that time there were 15,000 pupils in these schools in Ireland, and 3,000 in England. In Limerick the schools have gone on in the most successful manner : there are no less than six of those schools in the City of Limerick, while there are schools also in Bruff, Adare, Kathkeale, &c. In 1858, there were 1,458 pupils in those schools. The Commissioners, of whom the Earl of Kildare was Chairman, reported that " the state of education is noticed as excellent. Several of the pupils could draw well ; their writing was generally unexceptionable ; and the answering in Euclid, mechanics, arithmetic, and all the ordinary departments of English education, including dictation, was of a very superior order.^ No greater blessing could be conferred on a community than that which has been extended through the influence and operations of these admirable schools, which in 1865 contain nearly 1800 pupils, in seventeen schoolrooms, some of which contain over one hundred pupils each, and which are every day proving their superiority over all that has been done to check their growth, or win their pupils to other and more showy estabHshments on which the state has been lavishing enormous funds.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 254

    As the companion tells it

    As the road brings you through Limerick, this is the city where the Christian Brothers schools took hold in 1816. Edmund Rice of Waterford had submitted his plan for the association to Pope Pius the Seventh in 1802, and the Pope encouraged him to proceed. The institute was approved and confirmed in 1820. The schools spread rapidly after that. The Commissioners appointed to inquire into endowed schools in Ireland visited the Christian Brothers schools in 1858, even though these schools were not endowed by the State, and were entirely separate from any state endowment. At that time there were 15,000 pupils in these schools across Ireland, and 3,000 in England. In Limerick the schools had gone on successfully. There were six schools in the city, and schools also in Bruff, Adare, and Rathkeale. In 1858 there were 1,458 pupils in those schools. The Commissioners, with the Earl of Kildare as Chairman, reported that "the state of education is noticed as excellent." They noted that several pupils could draw well, their writing was generally unexceptionable, and the answering in Euclid, mechanics, arithmetic, and all the ordinary departments of English education, including dictation, was of a very superior order. By 1865 the schools contained nearly 1,800 pupils in seventeen schoolrooms, some with over one hundred pupils each. The book calls them a blessing conferred on the community through the influence and operations of these schools, which were proving their superiority over establishments on which the state had been lavishing enormous funds.

51. Colonel Lacy treats with Ireton at siege of Limerick, 1651

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1641–1651

    Colonel Lacy, descendant of Pierce Lacy, continued the Munster wars in 1641 and treated with Ireton at the siege of Limerick in 1651, but was excluded from the amnesty.

    Read the passage

    turies ; the •wars against Turkey, in the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, those of the f amou» Irish Brigade, the wars by the French against Marlborough, with Catholic Germany against Sweden and Prussia, and the Russians against Turkey — in short, in every leading European event to the Treaty of Adrianople, in 1829, the family of De Lacy of Limerick has supplied a member, and achieved undying renown. From Walter De Lacy, whose daughters were married into the noble house of Fitzgerald, Earls of Desmond and Kildare, descended Hugh Lacy, Bishop of Limerick, in Queen Mary's time ; the family rose and fell with the Fitzgeralds' intestine wars, in the fifteenth, sixteenth, and seventeenth centuries. In the seventeenth century there were three brothers of the family settled in the County Limerick —one in Ballingarry, one in Bruree, and one in Bruff ; and from those descended the famous " Pierce Lacy" who was executed by the Justices in 1617; being one of the five exempted from the pardon of 1601. His descendant, Colonel Lacy, continued the wars in Munster in 1641, and treated with Ireton at the siege of Limerick in 1651, but was excluded from the amnesty. John Bourke, Lord of Brittas, half-brother of Pierce Lacy, was executed in 1607; and in 1618, his relative married to the daughter of the Earl of Inchiquin, was created Baron Brittas; in 16il attainted, restored, 1688 attainted and lost their properties. Cromwell expelled the Lacys root and branch, and only one of the Bruff branch escaped the slaughter by dismounting a horseman. Pierce Lacy was conspicuously engaged in the siege of Limerick, 1691. From these branches sprung the Irish Brigaders, and the French, Spanish, Austrian, Polish and Russian warriors. Marshals and Generals De Lacy and Brown, whose exploits for a century, up to the close of the last century, filled Europe with their fame. In the list of English by descent at the end of the sixteenth century, in the county of Limerick, the Lacys of Ballingarry, of the Brouve (Bruff) and of Bruree, are ranked with "the gentlemen and freeholders" of the county, as contradistinguished from the " meere Irishe," and the factions in Munster, viz. the " McSwines and M'Shees, then in faction" — the latter gallowglasses,* though at the siege at Askeaton in 1641 — "JohnLacie of the Brouff" is denounced, with M'William Bourke, second son of Lord Brittas, and others, by St. Ledger, Lord President of Munster, as among " the Mounster Rebelles."t History teems with the achievements of the De Lacys in Russia and Austria. It was for his remarkable successes in the Council not less than in the Field, that the " famous Marshal De Lascy, the son of an Irish Exile from the county of Limerick, was loaded with so much honor by the rulers of Austria, and received from the Emperor Joseph a letter (written the day before the Emperor's death)" which is translated in his kinsman's "Cornet Pierse's Historical Researches," as follows: — "Vienna, 19th February, 1790. My dear marshal Lacy, I behold the moment which is to separate us approaching with hasty strides ! 1 should be very ungrateful indeed if I left this world without assuring you, my dear friend, of that lively gratitude on which you have so many claims, and which I have had the pleasure of acknowledging in the face of the whole world ! Yes ! you created my army : to you it is indebted for its credit and its consideration. If I be any thing 1 owe it to you. The trust I could repose in your advice under every circumstance, your unbroken attachment to my person, which never varied, your success in the Field as well as in the Council, are so many grounds, my dear marshal, which render it impossible for me sufficiently to express my thanks. I have seen your tears flow for me ! The tears of a great man and a sage are a high panegyric. Receive my adieus ! I tenderly embrace you. I regret nothing in this world but the small number of mv/'-iencis, among whom you certamly are the first! Remember me! remember your sincere and affectionate friend, JOSEPH." A magnificent monument, with his efiigy in bronze, is raised to him in Vienna.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 189

    As the companion tells it

    As you come through Limerick, you are passing through a city that was under siege in 1651, when Colonel Lacy treated with Ireton. The Lacy family had deep roots in this county. Three brothers of the family had settled here in the seventeenth century, one in Ballingarry, one in Bruree, one in Bruff. From them came Pierce Lacy, executed by the Justices in 1617, one of five men exempted from the pardon of 1601. His descendant was Colonel Lacy, who carried on the wars in Munster in 1641. At the siege of Askeaton that same year, John Lacie of Bruff was denounced by St. Ledger, Lord President of Munster, as among “the Mounster Rebelles.” Colonel Lacy treated with Ireton at the siege of Limerick in 1651, but was excluded from the amnesty. Cromwell expelled the Lacys root and branch. Only one of the Bruff branch escaped the slaughter, by dismounting a horseman. The family had risen and fallen with the Fitzgeralds, Earls of Desmond and Kildare, across the fifteenth, sixteenth and seventeenth centuries. Hugh Lacy had been Bishop of Limerick in Queen Mary's time. John Bourke, Lord of Brittas, half-brother of Pierce Lacy, was executed in 1607. In the records of the late sixteenth century, the Lacys of Ballingarry, Bruff and Bruree are ranked among the gentlemen and freeholders of the county.

52. Croom castle besieged by Lord President Carew, 1600

    Croom · town · Limerick · 1600

    In 1600, the celebrated Pierce Lacy, constable of Croom castle, was attacked by Lord President Carew and compelled to flee in the night. The castle surrendered the next day. Carew had ousted the De Lacys on his way to the siege of Glen.

    Read the passage

    was rebuilt by the Earl of Kildare, who made it his principal seat, taking from it the war cry of " Crom-a-Boo". Several times attacked by the Enghsh in the reign of Elizabeth. The Geraldines were three times besieged in the castle. The last time in 1600, when the celebrated Pierce Lacy, the constable, was attacked by Lord President Carew, and compelled to fly in the night. The castle surrendered next day. In the war of Desmond with Elizabeth was held by the De Lacys in Earl's interest, but Caiew in 1600 ousted them on his way to the seige of Glen. It then vested in the Crown. Charles II. granted it to his natural son, the Duke of Richmond, who resided here some time, and then sold it to the Crokers.

    1610. Castle and manor of Croom restored by King James to the Fitzgeralds.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 429

53. Danes driven from King's Island by Brian's son, 969

    King's Island · townland · Limerick · 969

    In 969 AD, the Foreigners (Danes) of Limerick were driven from Inis-Sibtond, now known as King's Island, by the son of Ceinneidigh (Brian Boroimhe). The annals also record a curious optical phenomenon that year of two suns of equal size seen at high noon.

    Read the passage

    In A.D. 969, says the Annahst, "The Foreigners of Limerick were driven from Inis-Sibtond,*5 (now the King^s Island), by the son of Ceinneidigh /^* he adds in a separate paragraph that in this year " two suns of equal size were seen at high noon.''' Undoubtedly this was one of those optical illusions or mirages, which science now clearly explains. Some years subsequently, according to the Four Masters, (Keating makes the event ten years earher), O'Brien, the son of Kennedy, King of Munster, besieged Limerick, which continued to be inhabited by the Danes ; his troops were victorious ; he set fire to the city. He also engaged the Danes of Inis-Cailthe, whom he defeated with the loss of eight hundred killed, and Imohair (Humpiry), and Dubhgeann, their principal commanders, were taken prisoners. 3 In this latter year " an army, which was led by DomnhaU, son of Dubhdabhoireann, to Lunerick, the two sons of Brian, namely, Donchda and Fadgli, met them, and a battle was fought, wherein the people of the south of Ireland were defeated, and Domhnall fell and numbers along with him.''* The Danes, during a portion of this time, were reduced to the greatest extremities ; but at intervals they recruited their strength and retaliated severely on the Irish. There was no Prince in the Island who opposed their insults more than Brian Boroimhe.

    "The Glories of Brian the Brave," must be ever heard throughout the island ^vith thrilling sensations of delight and satisfaction. This glorious monarch, whose wisdom and energy are famed in history, and whose career

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 13

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere close to King's Island, in 969, the Foreigners of Limerick, the Danes, were driven from Inis-Sibtond, now King's Island, by the son of Ceinneidigh. The annalist adds, in a separate paragraph, that in this same year, \

54. Danish Bishops of Limerick

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1110–1179

    The Danes in Limerick provided a succession of bishops for the see, including Gille (Gilbert), Apostolic Delegate of Ireland (1110–1140), Patrick Harold (d. 1151), Torgesius, and Brictius. These bishops sought consecration at Canterbury and promised canonical obedience to its archbishops, unlike Irish bishops who were under Armagh.

    Read the passage

    In Limerick in particular we find the Danes giving the following Bishops,^ the see bemg confined to the city as elsewhere, and these Bishops going for consecration to Canterbury, to whose Archbishops they promised canonical obedience, while the Irish Bishops were under Armagh, and were consecrated either in Ireland or in Ptome. The Danish Bishops of Limerick were GiUe or Gilbert, Apostohc Delegate of Ireland, Bishop from 1110 to 1140, a most remarkable and learned Prelate. Patrick Harold, who died in 1151 ; Torgesius, and Brictius, who attended the Council of Lateran in 1179. Of the hves of these Bishops, and of the part taken by them in the ecclesiastical affairs of the diocese and kingdom generally, as far as appears in the authorities accessible to us, we shall treat, when giving the lives of the Bishops of Limerick. In reference to the early Bishops of the See, v/q shall follow, for the most part, the learned Sir James "Ware.

    If Brian's eminent qualities and powerful resources had compelled an acquiescence in his claims to the chief monarchy while he lived, the legitimist claim met a prompt recognition after his decease. In conformity with the view taken of his usm-pation by some of the amiahsts, who call it " rebellion with treachery,'"' the Annals of InnisfaUen as well as those of Ulster count the years of Brian's reign amongst those of the deposed Prince who preceded and succeeded him. The example thus set by Brian, who, with the exception of Bcetan, was the only chief Monarch not chosen from the Hy-NiaU race for upwards of 500 years, was one cause of the troubles which we have now to record, and which owing partly to the laws of succession, are unfortunately

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 17

    As the companion tells it

    As the road takes you through Limerick, the city carries an old story from the time of the Danes. In Limerick, the Danes gave a succession of bishops to the see, and those bishops went to Canterbury for consecration. They promised canonical obedience to the Archbishops of Canterbury, while the Irish bishops were under Armagh, and were consecrated either in Ireland or in Rome. The Danish bishops of Limerick were Gille, or Gilbert, Apostolic Delegate of Ireland, bishop from 1110 to 1140. He is called a most remarkable and learned prelate. Then came Patrick Harold, who died in 1151. Then Torgesius, and then Brictius, who attended the Council of Lateran in 1179. The details of their lives, and the part they took in the ecclesiastical affairs of the diocese and of the kingdom generally, are to be found in the authorities that survive, and in the writings of the learned Sir James Ware, who is followed on the early bishops of the see. The story of Limerick in this period runs alongside a wider struggle for the kingship. When Brian died, his eminent qualities and powerful resources had compelled an acquiescence in his claims to the chief monarchy while he lived. After his decease, the legitimist claim met a prompt recognition. Some annalists called his reign rebellion with treachery. The Annals of Innisfallen and those of Ulster count the years of Brian's reign among those of the deposed prince who preceded and succeeded him. Brian, with the exception of Baetan, was the only chief monarch not chosen from the Hy-Niall race for upwards of 500 years. His example was one cause of the troubles that followed.

55. Desmond ambushes Essex near Croom

    Croom · town · Limerick · 1600

    Essex marched to Limerick and Askeaton, where Desmond and Daniel MacCarthy More lay in ambush. Henry Norris was slain in a bloody fight near Croom, and Desmond pursued Essex's rear for six days.

    Read the passage

    Many of these had sworn at a public cross to be steadfast and true to their religion ; and it was complained that even the Irish who were not out in action, were so backward in aiding the queen, that they who could bring 100 horse and 300 foot to dispute their private quarrels, would not bring six men to assist the state. ^ Essex marching to Limerick, and thence to Askeaton, Desmond and Daniel MacCarthy More, lay in ambush for him ; The iU management of the affair caused a feud between Thomas Plunkett and Pierce Lacy, in which the former Avas slain, while Henry Norris was slain in a bloody fight near Croom, and Desmond pursued Essex's rere for six days.*

    On the 29th of April, 1600, the garrison of KilmaUock ^^took the prey of Loughgur,''^ and soon after Barrett, Condon and the White Knight submitted to the President.^ In the May of this year the President caused it to be understood that it was his intention to march to Limerick on the 6th of the month. The rebels consequently met in great numbers at Ballyhowra, and continued together for ten days ; then partly for want of food, and partly because they beheved the President would not or dare not pass that way, they separated.^

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 68

56. Dominick Fanning betrayed at St. Francis's Abbey

    Limerick · city · Limerick

    Dominick Fanning, the patriotic Mayor of Limerick, emerged numbed with cold and starving from one of the family vaults within St. Francis's Abbey to warm himself at a guard fire, where he was betrayed to Cromwell's soldiers by a traitorous servant of his own household.

    Read the passage

    We need not go further into the doings of Sexten in this regard. Suffice it to state, that the abbey was lost to its ancient possessors ; but it continued for many years afterwards to be the burial place of eminent men. The old families had their vaults within its hallowed boundaries ; and it was from one of these vaults, as we have seen, that, numbed with cold, and reduced to death's door with hunger, Dominick Fanning, the patriotic Mayor of Limerick, sat to warm himself at the guard fire within the abbey, when he was betrayed to Cromwell's soldiers by a traitorous servant of his own.

    Philopater Irencbus^ speaks largely of the Franciscan Order as taking a decidedly active part in the cause of the country against those who had vacillated during the wars of the Confederation, a circumstance for which we are not surprised the writer of that remarkable book does not give them credit.

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 376

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Limerick, the city holds the story of St. Francis's Abbey. The abbey was lost to its ancient possessors, but for many years afterwards it remained the burial place of eminent men. The old families had their vaults within its boundaries. It was from one of these vaults that Dominick Fanning, the patriotic Mayor of Limerick, emerged numbed with cold and reduced to death's door with hunger. He sat to warm himself at the guard fire within the abbey. There he was betrayed to Cromwell's soldiers by a traitorous servant of his own household. The Franciscan Order, according to Philopater Irencbus, took a decidedly active part in the cause of the country against those who had vacillated during the wars of the Confederation.

57. Dominick Fanning elected mayor of Limerick without charter

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1646

    After driving off the herald and the sitting mayor, the citizens of Limerick elected Dominick Fanning as mayor without any charter form or ancient custom of election. The Nuncio later wrote to thank Fanning for his obedience to papal decrees and zeal for the Catholic cause.

    Read the passage

    In Limerick where the confederate council sat, the peace, which had been solemnly established by decree of that body, was carried by the public vote of the city assembly, but the officers appointed for the execution of the charge were affronted, the confederate government was treated with utter disobedience. On the evening of the 20th of August, the heralds of Ormondes peace came to Limerick, the gates were shut against them, the next day they were allowed in and the herald at arms, vested in the coat of his office, attended on by John Bourke, the mayor, the aldermen and some of the principal citizens, who were at all times willing to accept any advantage ■which they supposed would subserve their own interests, began to proclaim the peace. A vote in its favor had been carried by the mayor and aldermen the day before. The people resolved to resist it, and Avere then exhorted by the clergy, Avho had published the censures, which had been decreed by the Nuncio and congregation, at Waterford, a few days before. Under the conduct and by the instigation of Mr. Dominick Fanning, and the Rev. Father Wolf, a Dommican Friar, who at the High Cross, in the midst of 500 armed citizens fulminated excommunication against its adherents, the people fell suddenly on the herald, flung stones at him, at Bourke the mayor, and all the aldermen who were about him, and all those of the " better sorV-* who countenanced the action ; and having scattered their ranks with so unexpected a volley, the wounded herald, tore his coat of arms from off his shoulders, beating' the mayor and some of the aldermen, and without the slightest respect for their scarlet robes or the badges of magistracy, drove them for shelter into the next door that stood open. Soon after, amid the acclamations of the crowd, without form suggested by charter, or any ancient custom for the usage of election, they chose Dominick Fanning, mayor, and to him, the Nuncio, a few days "after, by his letter returned thanks for the obedience he had given to his decrees, and for his zeal in favor of the Catholic cause. ^

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 90

58. Earl of Desmond defeats English at Peafield, Tipperary

    Peafield · townland · Limerick · 1582–1583

    The Earl of Desmond, excluded from a general amnesty, demonstrated considerable energy by plundering Ormond territory, defeating the English in a hard-fought battle at Gort-na-Pier (Peafield) in Tipperary.

    Read the passage

    The Earl of Desmond who was excluded from the amnesty which was now granted to the insurgents, occasionally gave proofs of considerable energy. He plundered the territory of Ormond, defeated the EngHsh in a hard fought battle at Gort-na-Piei, [Peafield in Tipperary] and cut to pieces a large force which had been sent against him by the brother and sons of the Earl of Ormond at Knockgraffin. He also despoiled the MacCarthys. But for sometime previously his people had begun to separate from him, and on one occasion^ when he had spent his Christmas in the wood of Kilquaig, near Kilmalloch, the garrison of that town were induced by the importunities of one John Walsh to endeavour to surprise him, and marching in the night, very nearly captured himself and his countess, who alarmed by the noise, got out of their cabin into the river, where they stood up to their chin in water on the bank side, and by this means escaped, but his servants were all killed, and his goods were carried away. In the summer and autumn of 1583,* even his countess, his children, and friends had begun to desert, so that at this period he had only four persons to accompany him from one cavern of a rock or hollow of a tree, to another throughout the two provinces of Munster.^ Deserted by his adherents he became a fugitive through the country, and was hunted from place to place, and was so well watched, that on one occasion when the Earl, accompanied by sixty gallowglasses, happened to be in the glen of Aherlow, the were surprised whilst some of them were asleep and some cooking horse flesh, by one Captain Dowdal who made prisoners of the first and cut the latter to pieces. The Earl however escaped and fled to Kerry, where he took shelter in a wood near Tralee. We give the rest of this melancholy story from the Annals of the Four Masters, with such corrections as their strong prejudices against the Geraldines require : —

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 65

59. Election violence in Francis-street, Limerick

    Francis Street · street · Limerick · 1837

    The night before the August 1837 general election in Limerick city, the windows and doors of houses in Francis-street belonging to anti-popular (Tory) candidates were smashed. The popular candidates William and David Roche won decisively.

    Read the passage

    The election for the city commenced on the 1st of August, it was marked by the utmost excitement. The windows and doors of the houses in Francisstreet of the anti-popular candidates had been smashed the night before. The candidates were William and David Eoche, Esqrs. on the popular interest; and William Monsell, Esq. and Mr. Wilson on the Tory interest. The following was the result of the gross poll : — W. Eoche, 563 ; David Eoche, 555; W. Monsell, 176. The Court rung with acclamations from the friends of Messrs. Eoche, who having returned thanks, the Sheriff adjourned to next morning. There was no chairmg of the City members,'

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 279

    As the companion tells it

    Along here, on the night before the first of August, 1837, the windows and doors of houses in Francis-street were smashed. The houses belonged to the anti-popular candidates, the Tory interest, William Monsell and Mr. Wilson. The popular candidates were William and David Roche. The election that followed was marked by the utmost excitement. The gross poll showed William Roche at 563, David Roche at 555, and William Monsell at 176. The court rang with acclamations from the friends of the Roches, who returned thanks, and the sheriff adjourned until the next morning. There was no chairing of the city members.

60. Famine relief: soup kitchens and food imports in Limerick

    Limerick · city · Limerick

    During a severe harvest failure, three soup kitchens were opened in Limerick city capable of feeding 6,000 people daily. Cargoes of potatoes were imported from Scotland, and a vessel from London delivered 45 tons of potatoes, herrings, and dried ling as a gift to the poor. Employment was provided by replacing the new Bridge pavement and improving the road from the Crescent to the new Barracks.

    Read the passage

    the last harvest. The sum of £1122 Is. 6d. was collected in the city for their relief. The people of England subscribed over £100,000 in aid of the Irish poor at this crisis. Limerick, Clare, and Kerry, suffered most severely. In Ulster and Leinster, matters were far and away better. Several cargoes of potatoes were imported to Limerick from Scotland. Three soup kitchens were opened in the city, cajjable of feeding 6000 people gratuitously each day. Oa the 23rd of May, a vessel arrived at the Quay from London, laden with 45 tons of potatoes, 38 barrels of Scotch herrings, and 26 cwt. of dried ling, the gift of a benevolent lady m England, to the poor of the city.^ On the 21st of the same month, the Mayor received from the Mayor of Carlisle £200 collected there for the use of the poor of Limerick. To give employment to the wretched labourers, who were in the utmost misery, the pavement of the new Bridge was torn up, and a powdered pavement was substituted. Breaking stones to mend the roads was generally resorted to, and the new road from the Crescent, leading to the new Barracks, was thus much improved.

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

    Internet Archive limerickitshisto00leni, Chapter 259

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Limerick, the city carries the marks of a time of severe harvest failure. Limerick, Clare, and Kerry suffered the most, while Ulster and Leinster were far better off. The sum of 1122 pounds, 1 shilling and 6 pence was collected in the city for relief. The people of England subscribed over 100,000 pounds in aid of the Irish poor at this crisis. Several cargoes of potatoes were imported to Limerick from Scotland. Three soup kitchens were opened in the city, capable of feeding 6000 people gratuitously each day. On the 23rd of May, a vessel arrived at the Quay from London, laden with 45 tons of potatoes, 38 barrels of Scotch herrings, and 26 cwt. of dried ling, the gift of a benevolent lady in England to the poor of the city. On the 21st of the same month, the Mayor received from the Mayor of Carlisle 200 pounds collected there for the use of the poor of Limerick. To give employment to the wretched labourers, who were in the utmost misery, the pavement of the new Bridge was torn up, and a powdered pavement was substituted. Breaking stones to mend the roads was generally resorted to, and the new road from the Crescent, leading to the new Barracks, was thus much improved.