The books · County Wicklow

Memoirs of the different rebellions in Ireland, from the arrival of the English : also, a particular detail of that which broke out the XXIIId of May, MDCCXCVIII : with the history of the conspiracy which preceded it (vol. 1)

Richard Musgrave (1745 or 1746–1818) · 1802 · history

656 stories at 251 places most on one point: Wexford, 57 a spot · 33 a townland · 182 a whole place · 433

Read the copy these stories were drawn from on the Internet Archive.

656
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656
placed on the map, at 251 points
30
counties: Wexford, Dublin, Kildare and more
10,266
words in the passages on this page

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page 3 of 11 · 656 in all

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  1. Capture and execution of William Hore near Duncannon

    Duncannon · town · Wexford · 1798

    William Hore of Harperstown attempted to escape on foot to Duncannon fort but was seized by pikemen, brought before father Edward Murphy of Bannow who refused to free him, and was taken to Wexford where he was executed on the bridge.

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    which they complied. But that reverend gentleman, though his will was a law, would ,not liberate him. He was therefore taken to Wexford, and fuffered on the bridge in that fcene of carnage fo difgraceful to human nature. Wiiliam-Allen Cox, efquire, captain of the Taghmon * yeomen cavalry, lived at CoolcHff, t in the fame parilh, and on a navigable tiver called the Bannov/, but which is extremely narrov/ till it reaches Clonmines. He endeavoured . to mdce- his efcape in a fmall boat, in hopes of geting to fea; but he v/as fo befet by pikemen, that lie was under the neceffity of landing in the midft of a horde of thofe favages ; however, he derived great confolation from the fight of father Edward Murphy, whofe protedion he implored ; but he briefly replied, " That his flay there would be but fhort '/^ and he left him in the hands of thofe mercilefs wretches. He then took to his boat, and was foon after feized by the pikemen at the Scar-pafs of Barrietflown, \ and conveyed to Wexford, where he fuffered on the bridge.

    The parifh of Bannow, of which Edward Murphy v/as prieft, is fo populous and extenfive, as to require two chapels ; one called the chapel of Carrig, about two miles fi'om Bannow, where he generally officiates ; the other, at Ballymitty, is not far from Taghmon. This reverend father was the perfon who preached the fermon at Vinegar-hill, which Richard Grandy was prefent at, and made affidavit of before George Ogle, efquire, and three magiftrates more. §

    Internet Archive memoirsofdiffere01musg, Chapter 266

    As the companion tells it

    Near Duncannon, in 1798, William Hore of Harperstown tried to escape on foot, making for the fort. Pikemen seized him before he could reach it. They brought him before Father Edward Murphy of Bannow. Murphy was priest of a parish so populous and extensive it required two chapels, one called the chapel of Carrig, about 2 miles from Bannow, where he generally officiated, and another at Ballymitty, not far from Taghmon. His word carried weight among those who held Hore. But though his will was a law, he would not liberate the man. Hore was taken to Wexford and executed on the bridge, in what the record calls "that scene of carnage so disgraceful to human nature." Father Murphy was the priest who preached the sermon at Vinegar Hill, which Richard Grandy witnessed and swore to before George Ogle and 3 magistrates more. Hore was not the only one Murphy refused to save. William Allen Cox, captain of the Taghmon yeomen cavalry, who lived at Coolcuff on the narrow Bannow river, also tried to flee, in a small boat, hoping to reach the sea. He too was beset by pikemen and landed among them. He implored Murphy's protection, but the priest replied that his stay there would be but short, and left him. Cox was seized at the Scar-pass of Barriestown and taken to Wexford, where he too suffered on the bridge.

  2. Cavalry charges repulse rebels in fields near Ross

    New Ross · townland · Wexford · 1798

    Captain Irwine led a detachment of the 5th dragoons to charge rebels near Three-bullet gate; rebels fled over high ditches and fired on the cavalry from behind them, with losses on both sides including cornet Dodwell.

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    In the firft onfet which they made at the Threebullet * ^ate, they were repulfed ; on which general Johnfon ordered captain irwme to advance and charge them with a detachment of the 5th dragoons. In a field where they feemed doubtful whether to advance or make good their retreat. Seeing the cavalry advance briflily oji them, they fled precipitately, leaped over fome very high ditches, and fired from behind them on the dragoons , who had approached very clofe to them, and attempted to leap over them, but in vain. The very fame circumftances happened in two other fields where they charged. They lofl: in the courfe of thefe charges cornet Dodwell, one ferjeant, one corporal, twenty-four privates, and twenty-fix borfes. I'he gallant general Johnfpfi was in each field where thefe charges were made.

    When captain Irwine was approaching the ThreqbuUet gate from the lafl field, a twelve-pounder pofted there was fired, and killed his horfe, which fell on his leg, and prevented him from moving, at the fame time that our troops in that quarter had retired within the gate, and v/ere retreating towards the bridge ; and the rebels had advanced withiii a few yards of him, and v/ould have killed him, but that they were engaged in taking polTeflion of the gun. In that critical moment an artillery horfe happened to pafs by, and fo near him, that he laid hold

    Internet Archive memoirsofdiffere01musg, Chapter 258

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere close to New Ross, in 1798, a force of rebels made their onset at the Three-bullet gate and were repulsed. General Johnson ordered Captain Irwine to advance and charge them with a detachment of the 5th dragoons. The rebels were in a field, seeming doubtful whether to advance or make good their retreat. Seeing the cavalry advance briskly upon them, they fled precipitately, leaped over some very high ditches, and fired from behind them on the dragoons. The dragoons had approached very close and attempted to leap the ditches, but in vain. The same happened in two other fields where they charged. They lost cornet Dodwell, one sergeant, one corporal, 24 privates, and 26 horses. General Johnson was in each field where these charges were made. When Captain Irwine was approaching the Three-bullet gate from the last field, a twelve-pounder posted there was fired and killed his horse. The horse fell on his leg and prevented him from moving. The troops in that quarter had retired within the gate and were retreating towards the bridge. The rebels had advanced within a few yards of him and would have killed him, but they were engaged in taking possession of the gun. At that critical moment an artillery horse happened to pass by, so near him that he laid hold of it.

  3. Colonel Longfield relieves Rathangan and routs rebels

    Rathangan · townland · Kildare · 1798

    Colonel Longfield's Cork militia, dragoons, and field-pieces approached Rathangan; rebels panicked, sought holy water in Mrs. Pym's yard, and after Longfield disregarded a threat against his prisoner and fired round shot, the rebels fled, with fifty to sixty killed including leader Molloy who was hanged.

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    Colonel I.ongfield obtained ample vengeance for the death of the loyalifts, having killed in the attack and the purfuit between fifty and fixty rebels, and hung fome of their leaders, who fell into his hands ; among whom was Molloy, Mr. Spenfer's renegada lieutenant.

    They were on the point of hanging one Keogh, a glazier, who had been a<9:ive among the rebels at Mr. Spenfer's houfe. Having pleaded that he was compelled by force to join them, they fpared his life ; but obliged him to execute thofe whom they fenfenced to death.-

    Internet Archive memoirsofdiffere01musg, Chapter 170

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere close to Rathangan, Colonel Longfield took his revenge in 1798. His forces killed between 50 and 60 rebels in the attack and the pursuit, and hanged some of their leaders who fell into his hands. Among them was Molloy, Mr. Spencer's renegade lieutenant. They were on the point of hanging one Keogh, a glazier, who had been active among the rebels at Mr. Spencer's house. He pleaded he was compelled by force to join them, so they spared his life, but obliged him to execute those they sentenced to death.

  4. Cornelius Grogan of Johnstown coerced into rebel oath and role as commissary

    Johnstown · townland · Wexford · 1798

    Cornelius Grogan of Johnstown, near Wexford, was visited by rebels and pressured to take the United Irishmen's oath, later serving as commissary to the republic and taking inventory of provisions at Clonard, hoping to preserve his large estate.

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    On Sunday =lhe third of June, Mr. Cornelius <jrogan, of Johnftown, f within three miles of Wexford, vifited them, and afked them, what part they would take in the prefent civil war ? They anfwered that they would continue neuter. He told them that they would not be fufFcred to remain inadive, and alfured them that they would be taken to the camp if they perfifted in doing fo, and , put to death if they attempted to make their efcape* He faid, that the united Irifhmen had waited on him that morning, and compelled him to take their oath : That at firft he was averfe to it ; but haying confulted one O* Connor a fchoolmafler on the propriety of taking it, he removed his doubts, by alTuring him that the moft loyal of his majefty's fubjeds might fafely fwear it : That he was determined to go through with the bufmefs, as it was the only means of praferving his property ; for, that the people had rifen in great force in different parts of the kingdom, and had oeeii victorious in different engagements » Being in veiled with the office of commiffary to the republick, he took an inventory of all the provifions at Clonard, from Mr. Kellet's fteward ^ and aftqrwards went out and examined whether it was corred* He evinced his authority by giving a protcdion to a woman whom Mr. Kellet was fending to Wexford for bread. Thh unfortunate gentleman was feized of an eftate of- 8000 1. a-year, in the county of Wexford, and lived Johnftown, in a rude but plentifid hofpitality ; attended by a few parafites, who iBattered his- prejudices, and paid the moft obfequious deference to his opinions. From their daily exceffes at the table,

    Mr.

    Internet Archive memoirsofdiffere01musg, Chapter 284

    As the companion tells it

    On the third of June, 1798, somewhere around here in Johnstown, Cornelius Grogan was visited by the United Irishmen. They compelled him to take their oath. He had not wanted to. He consulted a schoolmaster called O'Connor, who told him that the most loyal of the king's subjects might safely swear it. Grogan decided he would go through with it. He said it was the only means of preserving his property, for the people had risen in great force in different parts of the kingdom and had been victorious in different engagements. That same Sunday he visited others and asked them what part they would take in the present civil war. They answered that they would remain neutral. He told them they would not be suffered to remain inactive, that they would be taken to the camp if they persisted, and put to death if they attempted to make their escape. Invested with the office of commissary to the republic, he took an inventory of all the provisions at Clonard, from Mr. Kellet's steward, and afterwards went out and examined whether it was correct. He showed his authority by giving a protection to a woman whom Mr. Kellet was sending to Wexford for bread. This gentleman held an estate of 8000 pounds a year in the county of Wexford, and lived at Johnstown in a rude but plentiful hospitality, attended by a few parasites who flattered his prejudices and paid the most obsequious deference to his opinions.

  5. Cornelius Grogan seized by rebels near Wexford

    Wexford · town · Wexford · 1798

    Grogan retreated with the king's troops from Wexford about two miles before turning off to his own house, where he was circumvented by rebels who compelled or seduced him to join their cause, ultimately leading to his downfall.

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    It is muc^ to be feared that this unfortunate gentleman fell a facrifice to his credulity, his avarice, and want of firmnefs. He retreated with the king's troops from Wexford, about two miles, and then turned off to his own houfe, where he was circum^ vented by the rebels, who either compelled or feduced him to join them. Some are of opinion, that lie repaired to his houfe, in hopes of preferving it from being plundered j others, that he imagined he could not prefervx his property but by embarking in the rebel caufe, which he was convinced would prevail, from the falfe and exaggerated accounts which he had received of their fucceffes and their numbers ; However, it is moil certain, that this unfortunate gentleman h^d i;ot been privy to the confpiracy previous to the irruption of the rebellion, and that he fell a vi£lim to his fears and the miftaken hope of preferving his eftate.

    On Monday the fourth day of June, mefiieurs Bland, Crump and Kellet, were conveyed to the gaol of Vv^exford, by a ferjeant and twelve rebels, and were committed to a long narrow paffage, v.hich was fo filthy and offenfive (^8 numbers of

    Internet Archive memoirsofdiffere01musg, Chapter 284

    As the companion tells it

    Wexford is the town in the story of Cornelius Grogan, in 1798. He retreated with the king's troops from Wexford about two miles, then turned off to his own house. There he was circumvented by the rebels, who either compelled or seduced him to join their cause. Some believe he went home hoping to preserve his house from being plundered. Others say he imagined he could not preserve his property but by embarking in the rebel cause, which he was convinced would prevail, from the false and exaggerated accounts he had received of their successes and their numbers. What is most certain is that he had not been privy to the conspiracy before the rebellion broke out. He fell a victim to his fears and the mistaken hope of preserving his estate. The book calls him an unfortunate gentleman who fell a sacrifice to his credulity, his avarice, and want of firmness. On Monday the fourth day of June, messieurs Bland, Crump and Kellet were conveyed to the gaol of Wexford by a sergeant and twelve rebels, committed to a long narrow passage so filthy and offensive.

  6. Death of Lord Mountjoy at Three-Bullet Gate

    New Ross · townland · Wexford · 1798

    Lord Mountjoy, colonel of the Dublin regiment, fell in the first onset at the Three-bullet gate and was universally lamented for his public and private virtues, being an elegant scholar and benevolent man.

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    making the. beft of his way to Carrickbyrne. * The enemy left dead two thoufand fix hundred, befides numbers whom they carried oft on cars. The loft of the king's troops was one colonel, one enfign^ four ferjeants, three drummers, eighty-one rank and file, and fifty-four horfes killed ; one captain, one drummer, fifty-four rank and file, and five horfes wounded ; one captain, three lieutenants, one enfign, two ferjeants, two corporals, feventy-two rank and file, and four horfes miffing. Lord Mountjoy, colonel of the Dublin regiment, who fell in the firft onfet, at the Three-bullet gate, was univerfally lamented, as his publick and private virtues made him an objed of general efleem. He was poffeifed of high mental endowments, being an elegant fcholar and a good pubhck fpeaker. He had the gentleft manners, and the mildeft affeQions, warm and fmcere in friendfliip, and fo benevolent and hmnane^ that he never harboured revenge.

    Great part of the rebels after the action encamped on Slievekilta, f a fteep and high mountain, about four miles from Rofs, where they remained, regularly anfwering our morning-gun ; and thence they went 10 Lacken-hill, | where they continued till they were diflodged by general Johnfon, when he marched to Vinegar-hill.

    Internet Archive memoirsofdiffere01musg, Chapter 259

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere around here is the Three-bullet Gate, where Lord Mountjoy fell in 1798. He was colonel of the Dublin regiment, and he died in the first onset of the battle. The fighting around New Ross was savage. The enemy left 2,600 dead, besides numbers they carried off on cars. The king's troops lost a colonel, an ensign, four sergeants, three drummers, eighty-one rank and file, and fifty-four horses killed. A captain, a drummer, fifty-four rank and file, and five horses were wounded. A captain, three lieutenants, an ensign, two sergeants, two corporals, seventy-two rank and file, and four horses went missing. Lord Mountjoy was universally lamented. His public and private virtues made him an object of general esteem. He was possessed of high mental endowments, being an elegant scholar and a good public speaker. He had the gentlest manners and the mildest affections, warm and sincere in friendship, and so benevolent and humane that he never harboured revenge. After the action, a great part of the rebels encamped on Slievekiltan, a steep and high mountain about four miles from Ross. They remained there, regularly answering the morning gun, before going to Lacken-hill, where they continued until they were dislodged by General Johnson when he marched to Vinegar-hill.

  7. Defence of Rev. John Whitty's house near Athy

    Ballickmoyler · townland · Laois · 1798

    Rebels headed by Redmond and Brennan burned Protestant houses at Ballickmoyler and attacked the house of Rev. John Whitty near Athy, which was defended by Whitty and eleven Protestants who killed twenty-one rebels before running out of ammunition.

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    The (Tae^n^s county rebels were to have met, and ioined thofe of the countv of Carlow, at Grais^uebridge ; but having heard that there were two pieces of cannon polled there, they changed their route and, headed by one Redmond, and one Brennan, who had been a veoman. they burned fome protcftant Koufes in the villaQ;e of Ballvckmoiler, and attacked the houfe of the reverend John Whitty, a proteflant clergyman, near Arie?, about five miles from Carlow ; but it was bravely defended, by himfelf and eleven proteftants, who kept up a conftant fire, killed twentv-one rebels, and baffled all their attempts t<> llorm or burn it. The conflid continued from three till fix o'clock in the n^orning ; when Rlr, WhJtty's ammunition being Rearly expended, he fent two of his party to a neighbour to borrow more ; but they were furrounded and overpowered after a gallant defence. The corpfe of one of them, whom they killed, was mangled in a barbarous manner. They left the other, whofe name was Impey, fuppofing him to be dead ; but he aftervrards recovered : He fought for a draught of v.ater from fome perfons who were prefent, but they would not relieve him, till he aiked for a prieft, and then they fupplied him with it. This party vras nrft informed, by emiiTaries from

    Carlow,

    Internet Archive memoirsofdiffere01musg, Chapter 174

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere around here, in 1798, rebels from Queen's County were meant to join those of Carlow at a bridge, but hearing cannon posted there, they changed their route. Headed by Redmond and Brennan, a former yeoman, they burned Protestant houses in Ballickmoyler, then attacked the house of the Reverend John Whitty, a Protestant clergyman near Athy, about 5 miles from Carlow. Whitty and 11 Protestants defended it bravely, keeping up a constant fire. They killed 21 rebels and baffled every attempt to storm or burn the house. The fight lasted from 3 till 6 o'clock in the morning. When Whitty's ammunition was nearly gone, he sent 2 of his party to a neighbour to borrow more. They were surrounded and overpowered after a gallant defence. The rebels killed 1 of them and mangled his corpse in a barbarous manner. They left the other, whose name was Impey, supposing him dead, but he afterwards recovered. He asked for a drink of water from people who were present, but they would not give it to him until he asked for a priest, and then they supplied him with it.

  8. Defenders meeting plots murder of chancellor near Stephen's Green

    Stoneybatter · street · Dublin · 1795–1796

    At a meeting of defenders held at Stoneybatter, members discussed attacking the chancellor as he returned from the house of lords, and hanging him on a tree in Stephen's Green. This testimony was given by Lawler during related trials.

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    or four thoufand ruffians, who gave them three cheers on their arrival, but hilled them at their departure. Lawler, who mixed with his brother defenders, recommended to alderman James not to fuffer a (hot to be .fired, becaufe, Ihould a conflict enfue, it was to be feared that the Coombe guard v/ould jom them ^ however, on being threatened by alderman James to :be hred on, they difperfed. Lawler fwwe, on the trials of Brady, Kennedy, and Hart, that, at a meeting of the defenders held at Stoneybatter, they fpoke of attacking the chancellor in the courfe of the vvinter, as he returned from th^ houfe .of lords, and of han^-incr him on a tree in §tephen's-green.

    Every collateral circumilance in this bufmefs corroborated the teflimony of Lawler. He fwore, that V^'^eldon always carried the oath in his fob j and vAitn he was arreflied it was found there. The fame thing occurred on the apprehenfion of Kennedy. ,

    Internet Archive memoirsofdiffere01musg, Chapter 97

    As the companion tells it

    Stoneybatter was where the Defenders held a meeting in the winter of 1795 to 1796. Lawler swore at the trials of Brady, Kennedy, and Hart that at this meeting the Defenders spoke of attacking the chancellor as he returned from the House of Lords, and of hanging him on a tree in Stephen's Green. Lawler had mixed with his brother Defenders and recommended to Alderman James not to suffer a shot to be fired, because should a conflict ensue, it was feared the Coombe guard would join them. On being threatened by Alderman James to be fired on, they dispersed. Every collateral circumstance corroborated Lawler's testimony. He swore that Weldon always carried the oath in his pocket, and when he was arrested it was found there. The same thing occurred on the apprehension of Kennedy.

  9. Edward St Leger encounters mutilated victim at old mill on Vinegar Hill

    near Vinegar Hill · hill or hills · Wexford · 1798

    Edward St Leger, a protestant briefly imprisoned at the old mill on Vinegar Hill on 1 June 1798, was released and on leaving saw a horribly mutilated man with his eyes gouged out and apparently his tongue cut out, being held under 'slow death' punishment.

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    Edvv^ard St. Leger, a proteftant, w^s taken prifoner and conduced to the old mill on Vinegar-hill, by a party of rebels, on the firfl day of June, 1798, but was releafed foon after at the interceflion of one Fenlon. , As he was leaving the prifon, he faw a nrjLii fitting on the ground, with no other clothes than a piece of a ragged blanket thrown over him. He preiented a moil ghaftly appearance, as his eyes were out, his head and body were much fwollen, an4 his cheeks were covered with ulcers. On St. Leger'ti exclaiming, What a miferable objed !"* he attempted to fpeak, but uttered forne inarticulate founds, which he cou-ld not underfland ; for which reafon, he believed, that his tongue had beeil cut out. An armed rebel who was near, and feemed to he guarding him, told St. Leger, that he was under punifliment, and I'poke fomething of How death ; meaning, as he verily believed, that the unfortunate wretch was condemned to fulfer flow death.

    Unwilling to difguft the reader, I will give him a circumftantial account- of but a few of the various

    Internet Archive memoirsofdiffere01musg, Chapter 237

    As the companion tells it

    Vinegar Hill in Wexford was the site of a grim scene in the summer of 1798. Edward St Leger, a Protestant, was taken prisoner by a party of rebels and brought to the old mill on the hill on the 1st of June. He was released soon after, through the intercession of a man named Fenlon. As he was leaving the prison, he saw a man sitting on the ground, wearing nothing but a piece of a ragged blanket. The man's eyes were gone. His head and body were much swollen, and his cheeks were covered with ulcers. St Leger exclaimed, "What a miserable object!" The man tried to speak, but uttered only inarticulate sounds that could not be understood. St Leger believed his tongue had been cut out. An armed rebel nearby, who seemed to be guarding him, told St Leger that the man was under punishment, and spoke something of slow death. St Leger believed the unfortunate man was condemned to suffer slow death.

  10. Father Harold's Instigation of Rebellion at Rathcoole

    Rathcoole · town · Dublin · 1798

    Lieutenant Clinch, before his execution, blamed his parish priest Father Harold for inciting the inhabitants of Rathcoole and surrounding country to become traitors, claiming rebel organization took place at Harold's house despite his public sermons of loyalty.

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    He acknowlcdg^^d the juftice of his fentence, and died loading with curfes father Harold, his parifji priefl ; at whofe inftigation, he faid, the inhabitantis of Rathcool, and all the adjacent country, had fwerved from their allegiance, and became rniitor^:. He declared alio, that the organization of lebellion had taken place at his houie, which was conftantly the rendezvous of the rebel leaders ; yet, that very priefl frequently exhorted his flock to loyalty from the altar, for three months before the rebellion broke out ; and on Sunday preceding that event, he preach^ ed two fermons eminently loyal, at the chapels of Saggard* and NewcalUe, in the prefence of captain Ormihy and lieutenant Chnftopher Clinchj of the Rathcool cavalry.

    It was proved aifo, that Harold encouraged his rebellious feclaries to furrender fome bad pikes^ and to keep their good ones, in order to deceive the magiftracy.

    Internet Archive memoirsofdiffere01musg, Chapter 157

    As the companion tells it

    Rathcoole, in 1798, was a town caught between a priest's words and a priest's house. Lieutenant Clinch, facing execution, accepted his sentence. Before he died he cursed Father Harold, his parish priest. Clinch said Harold had driven the people of Rathcoole and all the surrounding country to turn traitor. The rebellion was organized at Harold's own house, which was constantly the rendezvous of the rebel leaders. Yet that same priest had exhorted his flock to loyalty from the altar for three months before the rebellion broke out. On the Sunday before it began, Harold preached two strongly loyal sermons at the chapels of Saggard and Newcastle, with Captain Ormsby and Lieutenant Christopher Clinch of the Rathcoole cavalry present. It was also proved that Harold told his rebel flock to hand in some bad pikes and keep their good ones, to deceive the magistracy.

  11. Father Roche's inflammatory sermon at Wexford chapel

    Wexford · town · Wexford · 1798

    After mass, father Roche, chaplain to Bishop Caulfield, preached from the altar in the Wexford chapel, warning protestants they would all be murdered if insincere, and urging pikemen to continue their fight while counselling mercy.

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    . Now, I tell you, my good people, don't deceive yourfelves ; if you are not hncere in what you profefs, I tell you you will ail be murdered. I tell you to a certainty you will dl be murdered!'' This was repeated feveral times, wdth long paufes, and great emphafis. Then addreffmg himieif to the pikemen, he pointed out- to them the grievances they and their ancefiors had groaned under, for a hundred years pad, by the oppreiiion and cruelty of the proteftants ; and after having wTought them up to the higheft pitch of rehgious phrenzy, he faid, " Nctwithilanding the ,variety of ill treatment you have received from the proteftants, and are ftill fuffering, avoid the fpiliing of blood. I recommend to you, to be merciful to thefe poor people, as you hope yourfelves for mercy : for God's fake, be merciful to them. Y9U are contending for your holy religion and your rights. The glorious fuccefs which you have obtained (hews, that you are under the protedion of the Almighty, in whofe caufe you are fighting. Continue your fpirited exertions then. You have put your, hands to the- plough, and you mult not look back. Be affured that you will all be murdered unlefs you fucceed and get the upper hand/-' This pxiefl was very adive at the battle of Foulkes's mill,

    iu

    Internet Archive memoirsofdiffere01musg, Chapter 298

    As the companion tells it

    In 1798, in the town of Wexford, after mass, Father Roche, chaplain to Bishop Caulfield, preached from the altar of the Wexford chapel. His words were plain and fierce. He told the people not to deceive themselves. If they were not sincere in what they professed, he said, they would all be murdered. He repeated this several times, with long pauses and great emphasis. Then he turned to the pikemen. He laid out the grievances they and their ancestors had groaned under for a hundred years past, the oppression and cruelty of the Protestants. He worked them up to the highest pitch of religious frenzy. And then he said, despite all the ill treatment they had received and were still suffering, to avoid the spilling of blood. He told them, be merciful to these poor people, as you hope yourselves for mercy. For God's sake, be merciful to them. He said they were contending for their holy religion and their rights, and that the glorious success they had obtained showed they were under the protection of the Almighty, in whose cause they were fighting. He told them to continue their spirited exertions. "You have put your hands to the plough, and you must not look back." He warned them they would all be murdered unless they succeeded and got the upper hand. This priest was also very active at the battle of Foulkes's mill.

  12. First rebel attack on Borris repulsed, 25 May 1798

    Borris · town · Carlow · 1798

    On the night of 25 May 1798, about five thousand rebels attacked the house of Borris but were repulsed by Kavanagh's yeomanry corps after breaking into the lower windows and rescuing blacksmiths held prisoner there; some fifty rebels were believed killed or wounded.

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    The houfe of Borris was attacked on the night of the twenty-fifth of May, by a party of about five thoufand rebels, who were received with very great fpirit by the Borris corps, who repulfed them ; but not until they had broke upon the lower windows of the houle, which were but flightly barred, and refcued the blackfmiths who were confined in it. It was believed that not lefs than fifty rebels were killed and wounded on that occafion.

    The exertions of the yeomanry corps of the neighbourhood, for three or four days, completely cleared the country of the mod active rebels, and their leaders, who joined their aiTociates in the county of Wexford, where they carried every thing before them.

    Internet Archive memoirsofdiffere01musg, Chapter 242

    As the companion tells it

    Borris saw fighting in the rebellion of 1798. On the night of 25 May, about five thousand rebels attacked the house of Borris. The Borris corps of yeomanry received them with great spirit and repulsed them, but not before the rebels had broken through the lower windows, which were only slightly barred, and rescued the blacksmiths confined inside. It was believed that no fewer than fifty rebels were killed and wounded. In the days that followed, the yeomanry corps of the neighbourhood cleared the country of the most active rebels and their leaders, who joined their associates in County Wexford, where they carried everything before them.

  13. French fleet arrives in Bantry Bay for invasion

    near Bantry Bay · bay · Cork · 1796

    In December 1796, a French fleet with fifteen thousand troops arrived in Bantry Bay intending to invade Ireland, but was dispersed by a storm, losing about one-fourth of its ships, which defeated the invasion attempt.

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    In the month of December, 1 796, a French fleet with fifteen thoufand troops for the invafion of Ireland arrived in Bantry-bay ; but having been^difperfed by a ftorm, and having loft about one-fourtli of their fliips, their intention was -defeated. It is generally believed, that this plan was firft fuggeded to the French government by Mr. Tone, then refiding in France, but at the inftance of the Irifh directory, who accepted the propofal of the French directory. This negotiation, which took place between the month of June, 1795, and the month of January, 1796, was tranfaded by Edward John Lewins, the accredited agent and refident ambaifador of the Irifh rebellious^ union to the French republick, and who was fent to Paris as fuch in the fummer of 1 795. f

    The plan of the invafion which the French attempted at Bantry was fettled at an inverview w^hich took place in Switzerland, in the fummer o^ 1796, betw^een lord Edward Fitzgerald, Mr. Arthur O'Connor, and general Hoche.

    Internet Archive memoirsofdiffere01musg, Chapter 109

    As the companion tells it

    In December 1796, a French fleet carrying fifteen thousand troops sailed into Bantry Bay, intending to invade Ireland. A storm scattered the fleet, and about one-fourth of their ships were lost, which defeated the attempt. The plan is believed to have been first suggested to the French government by Mr. Tone, then residing in France, at the instance of the Irish directory, who accepted the proposal of the French directory. This negotiation took place between June 1795 and January 1796, conducted by Edward John Lewins, the accredited agent and resident ambassador of the Irish rebellious union to the French republic, sent to Paris in the summer of 1795. The plan was settled at an interview in Switzerland in the summer of 1796, between Lord Edward Fitzgerald, Mr. Arthur O'Connor, and General Hoche.

  14. Glenarm Defenders refuse Protestant command on Belair-hill

    near Glenarm · village · Antrim · 1798

    During the rebellion, the Roman Catholic inhabitants of Glenarm, organized under the Defender system, were advancing to join United Irishmen on Belair-hill led by a presbyterian minister named Acheson, but disbanded rather than submit to Protestant command.

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    The inhabitants of Glenarm, in the county of Antrim, who were papifts, were organized according to, the defenderifm fyftem. During the rebeUion, they were advancing in a body to join a party of united Iriflimen on Belair-hill, who were headed by one Achefon, a preibyterian minifler ; but when the Glenarm rebels difcovered this, they difbanded and faid, they never would fubmit to be commanded by a proteftant. * The fame circumflance occurred in the rebel camp at Carrickbyrne,* Vinegar-hiil, and Gorey, in the county of Wexford, w^here the priefts and the other popifh leaders denounced proteftants, and defired that they fhould not be admitted into their ranks ; but we cannot have a ftronger proof of the infmcerity of the Romanifts, and their determination to extirpate every order but their own, than the wanton and cold-blooded murders committed by them in the counties of Dublin, Kildare, Wicklow, Carlo w and Wexford ; and the earneft intention which they fhewed to do fo in Mayo and Sligo, and which they would have effeded, but for the humane interference of the French.

    By the following refolution, feized by Mr. Fox in a committee of united Irifhmen at Belfaft, and dated the eleventh of April, 1797, it appears, that they did not confider the defenders as united with them : " Refolved, thai the provincial (meaning committee) , form a plan for the fupport of poor famihes, that they get us the number of defenders in the Idngdom,

    Internet Archive memoirsofdiffere01musg, Chapter 123

    As the companion tells it

    The road brings you near Glenarm, a village in Antrim. In 1798, during the rebellion, its Roman Catholic inhabitants were organised under the Defender system. They set out in a body to join a party of United Irishmen who were gathered on Belair-hill. That party was headed by a man called Acheson, a Presbyterian minister. When the Glenarm men learned who commanded the force they were marching to join, they disbanded. They said they never would submit to be commanded by a Protestant. The same thing happened in the rebel camp at Carrickbyrne, Vinegar-hill, and Gorey in the county of Wexford, where priests and other Catholic leaders denounced Protestants and asked that they not be admitted into their ranks. The book this comes from argues these events prove the insincerity of the Roman Catholics and their determination to extirpate every order but their own, pointing to murders committed in the counties of Dublin, Kildare, Wicklow, Carlow and Wexford, and to intentions shown in Mayo and Sligo, which the author says would have been carried out but for the humane interference of the French. A resolution seized by Mr. Fox in a committee of United Irishmen at Belfast, dated the 11th of April, 1797, shows they did not consider the Defenders as united with them.

  15. Gunner Dungannon saves comrades by claiming to be Catholic

    near Forth Mountain · mountain or mountain range · Wexford · 1798

    After the ambush near Forth Mountain, rebels prepared to kill captured artillerymen until a gunner named Dungannon, who was Catholic, claimed they were all Roman Catholics, saving their lives even though six were actually Protestant.

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    The militia, pankk-flruck by the numbers of the enemy, and the darknefs of the night, betook themfelves to flight ; in confequence of which, eightyj>ine of the privates, and three officers, including captain Adams, who commanded, were cut to pieces ; and of the artillery, four gunners were killed, a corporal and eleven men were taken prifoners, and the howitzers and ammunition fell into the hands of the rebels. As foon as they had taken the artillery men, they were proceeding to put them to death ; but a rebel having aiked them of what religion they were, a gunner of the name of Dungannon, anfwered, that they were Roman catholicks, v/hich faved their lives ; though in fad:, fix of them were protellants. Dungannon being a papiflj knew the object of the quefl:ion.||

    Lieutenant Birch, of the Royal Irifli artillery, who commanded a detachment of that corps, gave an account of that difaftrous affair, in the following letter to major Stewart of his own regiment :

    Internet Archive memoirsofdiffere01musg, Chapter 243

    As the companion tells it

    As the road passes near Forth Mountain, this is a story from 1798. After an ambush here, the militia broke and fled in the darkness. Eighty-nine privates and three officers, including Captain Adams, were cut to pieces. Four gunners were killed. A corporal and eleven men were taken prisoner, and the howitzers and ammunition fell to the rebels. The rebels were about to kill the prisoners when one asked what religion they were. A gunner named Dungannon answered that they were Roman Catholics. That saved their lives, though in fact six of them were Protestants. Dungannon, being Catholic himself, knew why the question was being asked. Lieutenant Birch of the Royal Irish Artillery, who commanded a detachment of that corps, gave an account of the affair in a letter to Major Stewart of his own regiment.

  16. Historical and geographical description of Wexford town

    Wexford · town · Wexford · 1170–1649

    Wexford is described as a sea-port, borough and market town, seat of the county assizes, originally fortified by the Danes and enlarged by English settlers who took it from the Easterlings after a four-day siege on 4 May 1170; it was besieged and taken by storm by Cromwell in 1649 after being betrayed by captain James Stafford.

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    Wexford t is a fea-port, borough, market, and corporate town, and rather populous for its fize. It is the chief in the county of the fam.e name, and the third largeft in the province of Leinfler. It is governed by a mayor^ recorder, and bailiffs. It is the (hire and affizes town, and gives the title of, earl, as does Waterfbrd alfo, to. the noble family, of Talbot, who are earls of Shrewfbury in England. It ]:eturned. two members to parliament. It is feated on ' a bay in the Irifli channel, at the mouth of the river' Slaney. The harbour, though capacious, is Iha^low. It is formed by two necks of land, with an entrance half a mile broad, and was formerly defended -by^ two fox^iSy one at the extremity of each iflhmus, called fort Marget, and fort Rofslare ; but as its enfri^nce is pbftruded by fand banks, lliips difiwing more than ten feet, water feldom enter it. Ships of greater magnitude Toad and unload three miles from the town,, near the fouth fide of the haven, where there is fufficient depth of water, but no Iheiter from . the. Jouth winds, Wexford wa,s originally fortified B>^4he Dane^/'iiU^l ii^^pvov^ and enlarged by the firft, I^ngllil^r, Icttlcrs in the twelfth century, who tooli^. it from the Eailerlings, after a liege of four days, on " the fourth o^ May, T 170. It v/as beheged by Cromwell, the firil of October, 16493 and. having been betrayed by captain Jame§ StafFord, coirimandant of the caftle^ it v/as taken by

    ftorm^

    Internet Archive memoirsofdiffere01musg, Chapter 242

    As the companion tells it

    Wexford is a sea-port, borough, and market town, seated on a bay in the Irish channel at the mouth of the river Slaney. It is the chief town in the county of the same name, and the third largest in the province of Leinster. Rather populous for its size, it is governed by a mayor, recorder, and bailiffs, and serves as the shire and assizes town. It returned two members to parliament, and gives the title of earl, as does Waterford, to the noble family of Talbot, who are earls of Shrewsbury in England. The harbour, though capacious, is shallow. It is formed by two necks of land with an entrance half a mile broad, and was formerly defended by two forts, one at the extremity of each isthmus, called fort Margaret and fort Rosslare. But as its entrance is obstructed by sand banks, ships drawing more than ten feet of water seldom enter it. Ships of greater magnitude load and unload three miles from the town, near the south side of the haven, where there is sufficient depth of water, but no shelter from the south winds. Wexford was originally fortified by the Danes, and improved and enlarged by the first English settlers in the twelfth century, who took it from the Easterlings after a siege of four days on 4 May 1170. It was besieged by Cromwell the first of October 1649, and having been betrayed by captain James Stafford, commandant of the castle, it was taken by storm.

  17. House Burned at Fairymount and Attack on Pikemen

    Fairymount · townland · Roscommon · 1794

    A numerous body of pikemen set fire to Mr Mills's house at Fairymount after plundering it; the Reverend Mr Carey, a magistrate, arrived with dragoons and, finding the house in flames, attacked a large body of the insurgents and killed about thirty of them.

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    While they v/ere fitting in the town-hall, alliamed of their folly and puflllanimity, Mr. Mills of Fairy« mount, about fix miles olf, arrived with an account that a numerous body of pikemen had fet fire to his houfe, after having plundered it.

    The' reverend Mr. Carey, a magiflrate, having gone there with' a pafty of dragoons, and found che houfe in flames, attacked a large body of the inf argents, who were armed with pikes, and killed about thirty of them*.

    Internet Archive memoirsofdiffere01musg, Chapter 91

    As the companion tells it

    Close to Fairymount, in 1794, a numerous body of pikemen plundered Mr Mills's house and set fire to it. The Reverend Mr Carey, a magistrate, went there with a party of dragoons and found the house in flames. He attacked a large body of the insurgents, armed with pikes, and killed about 30 of them.

  18. James Beaghan executed on Vinegar Hill for murders instigated by priests

    near Vinegar Hill · hill or hills · Wexford · 1799

    James Beaghan was executed on Vinegar Hill on 24 June 1799 for various murders which he claimed he was instigated by popish priests to commit, confessing that every protestant was to be killed as an orangeman.

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    James Beaghan, executed on Vinegar-hill the twenty-fourth of June, 1799, for various murders, v/hich, he faid, he was inftigated by popifh priefts to commit, confelfed, that " every man that was a pro-

    teftant

    Internet Archive memoirsofdiffere01musg, Chapter 53

    As the companion tells it

    On the twenty-fourth of June, 1799, a man named James Beaghan was executed on Vinegar Hill. He had committed various murders, which he said popish priests had instigated him to commit. He confessed that "every man that was a protestant was to be killed as an orangeman."

  19. Marquis of Drogheda headquartered at Clogheen against White Boys

    Clogheen · town · Tipperary · 1762

    In 1762 the marquis of Drogheda was sent to command a large district in Munster disturbed by White Boys and made Clogheen, County Tipperary, his headquarters. On the night of his arrival, armed White Boys headed by Father Nicholas Sheehy assembled close to the town, intending to attack it.

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    In the year 1762^ the marquis of Drogheda was fent to command a large diftrid in the province of Munfler, and made Clogheen in the county of Tipperary his head-quarters, at that time much dil^ turbed by the white boys, who ufed to alTemble in bodies of from five hundred to two thoufand.

    On the night of the day on which he arrived ai Clogheen, a number of white boys, well armed and headed by father Nicholas Sheehy, aflembled clofe to that town, and were on the point of attacking ir, which induced his lordfhip to double the guard. From this, the inhabitants of it, ha\ring a fufpicion that h€ was going to march out againft the infurgents, father Doyle, parifh priefl of Ardfinnan, (alluded to in the information of David Landregin, Appendix, No. I. 2.) after having expoflulated with them on the danger of alfaulting the tov/n, went to lord Drogheda, pale and trembling with fear, aflured his lordlliip that his garrifon was in no danger, and befought him not to march out againft the infurgents. I received this information from the marquis himfelf, and it correfponds exactly with the depofition of Landreein.

    Internet Archive memoirsofdiffere01musg, Chapter 26

    As the companion tells it

    In 1762 the Marquis of Drogheda was sent to command a large district in the province of Munster, and he made Clogheen in the county of Tipperary his headquarters. At that time the town was much disturbed by the White Boys, who used to assemble in bodies of from five hundred to two thousand. On the night of the day on which he arrived at Clogheen, a number of White Boys, well armed and headed by Father Nicholas Sheehy, assembled close to that town and were on the point of attacking it. This induced his lordship to double the guard. The inhabitants, having a suspicion that he was going to march out against the insurgents, sent Father Doyle, parish priest of Ardfinnan, to him. The priest had first expostulated with the White Boys on the danger of assaulting the town. Then he went to Lord Drogheda, pale and trembling with fear, assured his lordship that his garrison was in no danger, and besought him not to march out against the insurgents. The author received this information from the marquis himself, and it corresponds exactly with the deposition of Landregin.

  20. Mass intimidation and swearing in the lordship of Caledon

    near Caledon · town · Tyrone

    In the lordship of Caledon, containing ten thousand people, almost the entire population except six or eight persons were sworn into the United Irish conspiracy through threatening letters and assassinations, until Orange societies restored loyalty.

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    letters, and bv the aiTafTmations committed there^ that in the lordfhip of Caledon, containing ten thoufand people, the whole of them, except about fix o^ eight perfons, were fworn ; but the loyal fubjects having entered into the Orange focieties, and having gained courage and confidence by their united ftrength, renounced with indignation thefe traitorous combinations, invigorated the arm of the civil magiftrate, and completely checked the progrefs of treafon. The honourable general Knox,* a gentleman whofe fagacity is not inferior to his courage and military fkill, which he has difplayed in Europe, Afia, and America, ccmnianded at Dungannon, in the fummcr of 1798; and he aflured government, that the inflitution of Orange lodges was of infinite life, and that he would refl the fafety of the North on the fidelity of the oi^ngenien who w^ere enrolled in the yeomanry corps.

    I think it right to mention, tha't the Orange affociation fhould not be confounded, as it has often invidioufly been, wdth the m.utual and difgraceful outrages which prevailed in the county of Armagh many years preceding, between the lowed clafs of prefbyterians, under the denomination of peep-of-day boys, and the Roman catholicks, as defenders ; for it was not inftituted till the defenders mxanifefled their hoflile defigns againil proteftants of every defcription, in moil parts of the kingdom.

    Internet Archive memoirsofdiffere01musg, Chapter 52

    As the companion tells it

    The lordship of Caledon held ten thousand people. By threatening letters and by the assassinations committed there, the whole population, except about six or eight persons, were sworn into the United Irish conspiracy. But loyal subjects then entered into the Orange societies, and gaining courage and confidence from their united strength, they renounced with indignation these traitorous combinations. They invigorated the arm of the civil magistrate and completely checked the progress of treason. The Honourable General Knox, a gentleman whose sagacity was not inferior to his courage and military skill, displayed in Europe, Asia, and America, commanded at Dungannon in the summer of 1798. He assured government that the institution of Orange lodges was of infinite use, and that he would rest the safety of the North on the fidelity of the young men enrolled in the yeomanry corps. The Orange association, the author notes, should not be confounded with the mutual and disgraceful outrages which prevailed in the county of Armagh many years preceding, between the lowest class of Presbyterians, called Peep-of-Day Boys, and the Roman Catholics, as Defenders. It was not instituted until the Defenders manifested their hostile designs against Protestants of every description, in most parts of the kingdom.

  21. Mr Stringer thrown overboard for the burning of Enniscorthy

    Enniscorthy · townland · Wexford · 1798

    Mr Stringer, who had escaped from Enniscorthy, was asked by a ruffian how he came to burn his town; on replying it was the rebels, sailors threw him overboard, though he was later rescued, left insane.

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    From the fufferings of the paffengers on board a large floop called the Lovely Kitty, (and many of ihem were ladies of rank and fortune,*) one may form fome idea of what the proteftant fugitives endured from the lavage fpirit of the rebel failors» Having embarked at three o'clock, on the morning of the thirtieth of May, they failed as far as the fort of Rofslare,t where the failors .caft anchor, under the pretext of taking in ballaft. In the evening they were furrounded by a number of boats, the crew$ of which, being well armed, boarded them, and were fo brutal and ferocious, as to fill them with ferious apprehenfions for their lives. Mrs. Gill, one of the paflengers, imagining that they were on the point of murdering her hulband, threw herfelf overboard and floated to fome diftance from the velTel ^ but was purfued and faved. Having been carried on deck, flie appeared hfeleis for fome time, and on being recovered, {he exclaimed, " Ah ! why did you bring me back to fcenes of mifery f '* Mr. Stringer, who had efcaped from Ennifcorthy, having been afked by a ruffian how he came to burn his town, replied, " It was done by the rebels on which the failors exclaimed, " Oyer with him !" and inftantly threw him overboard. After fwimming fome time, part of the crew, more humane than the reft, followed

    * Mrs. Ogle and her fitter were among them, t P^ate III. I.

    Internet Archive memoirsofdiffere01musg, Chapter 285

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere around here, in 1798, Mr Stringer had escaped from Enniscorthy as a Protestant fugitive. He boarded a large sloop called the Lovely Kitty at three o'clock on the morning of the thirtieth of May, along with other passengers, many of them ladies of rank and fortune. They sailed as far as the fort of Rosslare, where the sailors cast anchor, claiming they needed to take in ballast. In the evening, boats surrounded the vessel. Their crews, well armed, boarded and were so brutal and ferocious that the passengers feared for their lives. Mrs Gill, a passenger, thought they were about to murder her husband. She threw herself overboard and floated some distance from the vessel, but was pursued and saved. Carried on deck, she appeared lifeless for some time, and when recovered, she cried out, "Ah, why did you bring me back to scenes of misery." Mr Stringer was asked by a ruffian how he came to burn his town. He replied, "It was done by the rebels." The sailors exclaimed, "Over with him," and instantly threw him overboard. After swimming some time, part of the crew, more humane than the rest, followed and rescued him. He was left insane.

  22. Murder of four prisoners at Lacken

    Lacken · townland · Wexford · 1798

    James Lett, Richard Leech, William Mooney, and John Hawkins were being taken from Wexford toward Vinegar Hill for execution, but their rebel guard killed them at Lacken and buried them, half-alive, in a shallow grave to prevent their rescue by neighbours.

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    James Lett, chandler, Richard Leech, mafler ihoe-. maker, William Mooney, who kept the Kox-inn at Enniicorthy, and John Hawkins, were taken from Wexford, by a rebel guard, who was to convey them to the grand llaughter-houfe, Vinegar-hilh Finding that they were to die near their own homes, they prevailed on a rebel, who was attached to them, to go before them with fpeed, and to prevail on their neighbours to come forward, and to ufe their friendly interceflion for preserving their ' lives. The rebel gu^ard, dreading that they might poffibiy elcape through the humane interference of their friends, difpatched them at a place called Lacken, threw them into one grave, and covered them lightly wit h fods. They were all, except Hawkins, half alive, when buried, and groaned and (truggled a great deal while the rebels were interring them.

    On the morning of the twentieth of June, four protellants, of the names of Cavenagh, Wilhs, Furlong, and Frifcott, were conveyed horn the gaol of Wexford to Vinegar-hill, and fhot there.

    Internet Archive memoirsofdiffere01musg, Chapter 293

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere close to Lacken, in 1798, a rebel guard killed four men they were driving toward Vinegar Hill. The men were James Lett, a chandler, Richard Leech, a master shoemaker, William Mooney, who kept the Fox Inn at Enniscorthy, and John Hawkins. They had been taken from Wexford, and the guard was to bring them to Vinegar Hill to be executed. Finding they were to die near their own homes, the prisoners persuaded a rebel who was attached to them to go ahead quickly and call on their neighbours to come forward and intercede for their lives. The rebel guard feared the men might escape through the humane interference of their friends, so they killed the prisoners, threw them into one grave, and covered them lightly with sods. All except Hawkins were half alive when buried. They groaned and struggled greatly while the rebels were putting them under the earth.

  23. Murder of revenue officer Henderson at Prosperous

    Prosperous · town · Kildare · 1798

    Rebels entered the house of Mr. Henderson, a revenue officer and a Protestant, and shot him in his bed during the attack on Prosperous.

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    They entered the houfe of Mr. Henderfon, a revenue officer and a proteflant, and fhot him in his bed.

    Next morning they took a rebel prifon^r, who gave the following information, as to their number and their mode of attack : The foldiers were quartered in eight different houfes, each of which was to be attacked at the fame moment, by the fignal of a gun fired in the church-yard. The number of the alfailants was eight hundred. They lofl three captains,^ and near one hundred men. Captain Beevor's fervant was (hot in his bed. He, lieutenant Patrickfon, cornet Maxwell, and all the privates of the dragoons and the militia, difplayed fmgular fpirit and intrepidity againfl fo great a fuperiority of numbers. *

    Internet Archive memoirsofdiffere01musg, Chapter 166

    As the companion tells it

    Near the town of Prosperous, in 1798, rebels entered the house of Henderson, a revenue officer and a Protestant, and shot him in his bed. The next morning, a rebel prisoner gave information about the assault. The soldiers were quartered in eight different houses, each attacked at the same moment, by the signal of a gun fired in the church-yard. The number of the assailants was 800. They lost three captains and near 100 men. Captain Beevor's servant was shot in his bed. Lieutenant Patrickson, Cornet Maxwell, and all the privates of the dragoons and the militia displayed, in the words of the source, "singular spirit and intrepidity against so great a superiority of numbers."

  24. Murder of Reverend Mr Butler Near Ardbrackan

    Ardbrackan or Wrightown · townland · Meath · 1793

    In October 1793 the Reverend Mr Butler, chaplain to the Bishop of Meath, was murdered near his lordship's house at Ardbrackan, having apparently been previously tried and sentenced to die by a committee of assassination.

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    In the month of October, 1793, the reverend and amiable Mr, Butler, chaplain to the bifliop of Meath, was murdered near his lordfliip's houfe at Ardbrackan. It appeared afterv/ards, that he had been previoufiy tried and fentenced to die by a committee of affafTmation,

    During the whole of the year 1794, the defenders became terrihck, committing nocturnal robbery and alfafTmation, in the counties of Cork, Dublin, Meath, Leitrim, Longford, Armagh, Louth, Cavan, and part of Down, in confequence of which, the proteftant inhabitants of moft of them aiTembled,

    Internet Archive memoirsofdiffere01musg, Chapter 88

    As the companion tells it

    Close to Ardbrackan or Wrightown, in October 1793, the Reverend Mr Butler, chaplain to the Bishop of Meath, was murdered near his lordship's house. It appeared afterwards that he had been previously tried and sentenced to die by a committee of assassination. During the whole of the year 1794, the Defenders became terrible, committing nocturnal robbery and assassination across Cork, Dublin, Meath, Leitrim, Longford, Armagh, Louth, Cavan, and part of Down.

  25. Murder of Samuel Goodison near Enniscorthy by Luke Byrne

    Enniscorthy · townland · Wexford · 1798

    Samuel Goodison, a respected protestant farmer, sought protection at Enniscorthy but was shot instantly by his neighbour and supposed friend Luke Byrne, who later boasted of the killing over breakfast.

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    m§ fure of getting a proteftion from them. If he could arrive with fafety at Enniicorthy. He left his family at a mill, within a quarter of a mile of the town ; and having advanced a fhort way, he was overwhelmed with joy at meeting his neighbour and particular friend^ Luke Byrne ; but that fanguinary ruffian fhot him inftantly, inftead of affording him that protedion which he foiicited; A refpedable gentlewoman of Ennifcorthy heard him boaft afterwards, that he never ate fo iweef a breakfail, as he did that morning, for that he had killed Samuel Goodifon and Wilham CarrolL

    John Stillman, eighty years old, who had ferved as a fol-dier the greater part of his Hfe, and George Saunders, feventy years old, flept all Monday night in Ringwood ; and having come out of it about twelve o'clock, next morning, they were fhot on the road leading to Ennifcorthyi Saunders died inftantly. Stillman continued ahve till next day, and was able to fit up. A rebel out-poll, of about twenty men, amufed themfelves with ridiculing, infulting, and torturing him. They often alked him in irony, (as he was a protellant) Whether he would have a prieft ? They had but one ball among them, and they fired it five orTix times through his body, while proftrate on the ground ; and yet he was alive next day. He had but one eye, which they put out with a pike. At length they put him to death. Afterwards the rebels were knov/n to call him their plaything, in converfation at Ennifcorthy ; and to uociare, he was fo tough an old fellow, that they had great difficulty in putting him to death.

    Internet Archive memoirsofdiffere01musg

    As the companion tells it

    Close to Enniscorthy, in 1798, a respected Protestant farmer named Samuel Goodison was killed by a man he called a friend. Goodison was hoping to get a protection. He left his family at a mill, within a quarter of a mile of the town, and advanced a short way. He was overwhelmed with joy at meeting his neighbour and particular friend, Luke Byrne. But that sanguinary ruffian shot him instantly, instead of affording him the protection he solicited. A respectable gentlewoman of the town heard Byrne boast afterwards that "he never ate so sweet a breakfast as he did that morning, for that he had killed Samuel Goodison and William Carroll." That same time saw other killings near here. John Stillman, 80 years old, who had served as a soldier the greater part of his life, and George Saunders, 70 years old, slept all Monday night in Ringwood. Coming out about 12 o'clock next morning, they were shot on the road leading to the town. Saunders died instantly. Stillman lived till the next day and could sit up. A rebel outpost of about 20 men amused themselves ridiculing, insulting, and torturing him. They asked him in irony, as he was a Protestant, whether he would have a priest. They had but 1 ball among them, and fired it 5 or 6 times through his body while he lay on the ground, yet he was alive the next day. He had but 1 eye, which they put out with a pike. At length they put him to death. The rebels called him their plaything, declaring he was so tough an old fellow they had great difficulty killing him.

  26. Plot to betray Dolphin's Barn guard post uncovered

    near Dolphin's Barn · street · Dublin · 1798

    On 29 May, the Sepulchre's corps was ordered to guard Dolphin's Barn on the south-west outlet of Dublin. A private named Raymond revealed to fellow soldier Jennings a plot to massacre the protestant officers and deliver the post to rebel assailants, then seize the Park battery.

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    rebels, the difafFeded members of the corps were t(P m^ifacre the officers and the proteflant^ of it, and to deliver up the bridge to the j^ffaiiants : They were then to proceed to the battery in tne Park ; to inform the guard that they had been defeated ; to alk admittance ; and on being let in, to murder the guard ; to take polfeflion of the battery and ammunition ^ and to turn it to their own ufe.'*

    Jennings had been fworn an united Iriihman, and v^'as attached to their caufe from pure republicanprinciples ; but being a proteftant, and having dif-- 1 covered from the malTacres which had taken place, in the counties of Ehiblin, Meath and Kildare, that the extirpation of his own order was intended, he informed lieutenant Maturin of the plot ; and he having communicated it to government,. Raymond was taken up, tried, convicted and hanged on the GId Bridge, the firfl of June.

    Internet Archive memoirsofdiffere01musg, Chapter 190

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere about Dolphin's Barn, in 1798, a guard post stood at Dublin's south-west outlet. On 29 May, the Sepulchre's corps was ordered to guard it. Private Raymond told fellow soldier Jennings of a plot to massacre the officers and protestants of the corps, and deliver the bridge to the assailants. They were then to proceed to the battery in the Park, inform the guard they had been defeated, ask admittance, and on being let in, murder the guard, take the battery, its ammunition, and turn it to their own use. Jennings had been sworn an United Irishman, attached to their cause from pure republican principles. But being a protestant, and having discovered from the massacres in Dublin, Meath and Kildare that the extirpation of his own order was intended, he informed Lieutenant Maturin of the plot. Maturin told government. Raymond was tried, convicted and hanged on the Old Bridge, the first of June.

  27. Plot to murder Rev. Mr. Hamilton in Fanad

    near Fanad · locality · Donegal · 1797–1798

    In the Fanad district of Donegal, 2,000 rebels assembled and plotted to murder Rev. Mr. Hamilton, who learned of it under oath from a party member. He and a Mr. Smyth disguised themselves as beggars to pass the rebel picquet guard and reach Derry for reinforcements.

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    In a diftrlcl called Fanet, in the county of Donegal, two thoufand of them aiTembled, and laid a plan to murder the reverend Mr. Hamilton, of which he received information upon oath from one of the party- He could not get a meiTenger to convey a letter to Derry for a reinforcement of troops, and he had but a few foldiers in his houfe. He, and a Mr. Smyth who commands a revenue cutter, difguifcd themfelves in rags, as beggars, pafTed the picquet guard of the rebels, which they kept conflantly, with the utmoft regularity, arrived fafe at Derry, and obtained an additional guard of one hundred men, which faved himfelf and his houfe for that time ; but he was murdered in a fortnight after, within eight miles of Derry, by forty farmers who have hnce gone to America,

    In fuch counties where the perfons poffcHed of pro^ party were proteflants of the church of Ireland, and of courfe were loyal, and the lov/er clafs of people were papifts, the confpiracy v/as not fo terrilick ; becaufe the latter, who were engaged in it, wanted leaders of improved intelle£h.

    Internet Archive memoirsofdiffere01musg, Chapter 130

    As the companion tells it

    Fanad, in Donegal, is the place. In 1797 to 1798, two thousand rebels assembled here and laid a plan to murder the Reverend Mr. Hamilton. He received information of it upon oath from one of their own party. He could not get a messenger to carry a letter to Derry for a reinforcement of troops, and he had but a few soldiers in his house. He and a Mr. Smyth, who commanded a revenue cutter, disguised themselves in rags as beggars. They passed the picquet guard of the rebels, which was kept constantly and with the utmost regularity, arrived safe at Derry, and obtained an additional guard of one hundred men. That saved himself and his house for the time. But he was murdered in a fortnight after, within eight miles of Derry, by forty farmers who have since gone to America.

  28. Rebel attack on Clane garrison surprised at dawn

    Clane · town · Kildare · 1798

    Rebels stole into Clane at dawn on 24 May 1798, catching the garrison of Armagh militia and Clane yeomen cavalry unprepared. Soldiers billeted in the town fought their way singly through pikemen, with two killed and five wounded before repulsing the rebels.

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    Captain Jephfon, on looking out of his^ window, . faw the ftreets crowded with rebels, armed with different wxapons : The foldiers, who were at billets in the town, endeavoured to come forth ; but as each houfe was befet by a body of pikemen, they were obliged fmgly to fight their way through them ; and in attempting to do fo, two of them were killed on the fpot, and five were badly wounded* However, the remainder, notwithflanding the furprife, affembled, and gallantly repulfed the rebels. In the fecond attempt which they made, fix rebels, drelTed in the clothes and m.ounted on the horfes of the Ancient Britons, entered the town, with the, view of impofmg themfelves as yeomen, an artifice which in fome meafure fucceeded ; for captain Jephfon approached them, laid his hand on the neck of one qf the horfes, and aiked the rider, w^hence he cam.e ; on which he damned him, drew his fabre, and m.ade a cut at him ; for which he was inftantly Ihot by one of the foldiers, and the remainder were wounded in their retreat.

    About three o'clock captain Griffith received an exprefs at Millicent, his feat, by a yeoman, that a large body of rebels had attacked the guard of Clane : The captain arrived there in fifteen minutes, and found that, by the fteady condud of part of his troop, who were armed with carbines, which they uied with good effeft, the infurgents had received fuch a check, as to afford time to about forty of the Armagh to turn out. The yeomen and militia had not fired more than three rounds, when th : rebels difperfed ; and the captain, on his arrival, found the troops purfuing them, and burning the'houfes on the common, in which they had taken refuge. They killed a good many of thern, and took fix prifoners of the popifh perfu^fion, four of whom were captain Griffith's tenants. One of them Vv'.is condemnea and hanged at the drum-head i."* Clane ; the other five were hanged the fame day at Naas,

    Internet Archive memoirsofdiffere01musg, Chapter 163

    As the companion tells it

    Clane, in Kildare, is a town the road passes through. On the 24th of May, 1798, rebels stole in at dawn and caught the garrison unprepared. The soldiers were the Armagh militia and the Clane yeomen cavalry, and many were still at billets in the houses. Captain Jephson looked out of his window and saw the streets crowded with rebels, armed with different weapons. The soldiers tried to come out, but each house was beset by a body of pikemen, so they had to fight their way through singly. Two were killed on the spot and five were badly wounded. The remainder assembled and repulsed the rebels. In a second attempt, six rebels dressed in the clothes of the Ancient Britons and mounted on their horses entered the town, hoping to pass themselves off as yeomen. Captain Jephson went up to them, laid his hand on the neck of one of the horses, and asked the rider where he came from. The rider damned him, drew his sabre, and made a cut at him. A soldier shot the rider instantly, and the rest were wounded as they retreated. About three o'clock, Captain Griffith received an express at Millicent, his seat, brought by a yeoman, that a large body of rebels had attacked the guard of Clane. He arrived in fifteen minutes. By the steady conduct of part of his troop, armed with carbines, the rebels were checked long enough for about forty of the Armagh to turn out. The yeomen and militia had not fired more than three rounds when the rebels dispersed. Griffith found the troops pursuing them and burning the houses on the common where they had taken refuge. They killed a good many, and took six prisoners, four of whom were Griffith's tenants. One was condemned and hanged at the drum-head in Clane. The other five were hanged the same day at Naas.

  29. Rebels killed and burned at the barricade point R

    Arklow · town · Wicklow · 1798

    At Arklow, rebels made desperate but unsuccessful attempts to pass a defended point, suffering heavy losses. Survivors were seen throwing their killed and wounded into the flames, where bodies were consumed or buried under falling ruins.

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    The rebels, notwithftanding their moft defperate efforts, were unable to withftand the heavy and welldirefted fire kept up by the party pofted at K ; and never fucceeded in pafling the point R, at which multitudes of them Were killed, but who were inftantly replaced by others ; and they were plainly obferved throwing their killed, and, it is beheved, many of their wounded, into the flames, where they were confumed or buried under the ruins of falling houfes* The attack was fupported with the utmoft obftinacy on this point for two hours and a half, when the enemy began to defift from an attempt which had proved fatal to fo many, and to retire along the ftreet of the fifliery C,, and by the fea-fide road S.

    This being obferx-ed, the cavalry on the bridge, under colonel fir W. W. Wynne, was ordered to charge, and that officer led them on with his ufual gallantry againft the enemy, many of whom were cut down on the fands TT, and the reft made their efcape up the Yellow-lane P, and into the enclofures, where the cavalry could not follow them.

    Internet Archive memoirsofdiffere01musg, Chapter 279

    As the companion tells it

    In 1798, Arklow was the scene of a desperate rebel assault. The rebels made their most determined efforts but could not withstand the heavy fire kept up by the party posted at one point, and never succeeded in passing the barricade. Multitudes were killed there, and were instantly replaced by others pressing forward. Survivors were plainly observed throwing their killed, and it is believed many of their wounded, into the flames, where they were consumed or buried under the ruins of falling houses. The attack was maintained with the utmost obstinacy at this point for two hours and a half, before the rebels began to fall back. They retired along the street of the fishery and by the seaside road. Seeing this, the cavalry on the bridge, under Colonel Sir W. W. Wynne, were ordered to charge. He led them on with his usual gallantry. Many of the rebels were cut down on the sands, and the rest made their escape up the Yellow-lane and into the enclosures, where the cavalry could not follow.

  30. Rebels plunder and demolish Carnew in revenge

    Carnew · town · Wicklow · 1798

    The rebels plundered and demolished the town of Carnew, harbouring insatiable revenge against its inhabitants for the victory obtained over them on the twenty-seventh of May.

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    Had the rebel army taken advantage of their victory, and proceeded to Arklow and WickloAv, thofe towns muft have fallen into their hands, and they would probably have marched to, and attacked the metropolis ; but, incited by the hope of plundering Gorey and its vicinity, they continued for five days to commit every- excefs and enormity that the love of rapine and favage cruelty could inipire. The proteftant church, which was the firft object of their fanatical rage, they completely dilmantled. They pillaged and deflroyed the houfes of all the proteftants, and murdered many of their inmates, who could not make their efcape. They alfo plundered and demolifhed the town of Carnew ; ha\^g harboured infatiable revenge againfl its inhabitants, for the vi£lory which they had obtauied over them on the twenty-feventh of May,. *

    A drummer of the name of Hunter, of the Antrim regiment, of the age of twelve years, fell into the hands of the rebels, in the unfortunate affair in which colonel Walpole iofl his fife. He carried his drum with him, and when he was conduced to the town of Gorey, with fome other prifoners, they defired him to Ijeat it, having intended to make him ferve

    Internet Archive memoirsofdiffere01musg, Chapter 255

    As the companion tells it

    Carnew is a town here in Wicklow. In 1798, rebels plundered and demolished it. They had harboured what the record calls insatiable revenge against its inhabitants, for the victory those inhabitants had obtained over them on the twenty-seventh of May. The wider account says the rebel army, after winning a victory, did not press on toward Arklow and Wicklow and the metropolis. Instead they were incited by the hope of plundering Gorey and its vicinity, and for five days committed every excess and enormity that rapine and savage cruelty could inspire. The Protestant church was the first object of their rage, and they completely dismantled it. They pillaged and destroyed the houses of all the Protestants, and murdered many who could not escape. Carnew fell within this fury, its buildings demolished, its inhabitants the target of a revenge held since May.

  31. Refugees flee to Ringwood (St John's Wood)

    Ringwood · townland · Dublin · 1798

    Numbers of protestant men and women fled to the wood of St. John's, known as Ringwood, where they spent the night in terror listening to shots and the cries of the dying. The next day rebels sent an armed party to scour the wood and kill those found there.

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    When they entered t^^e town, fome ladies of diftinguifhed beauty, vnld with horror and afiright, waded over the river Slaney at the riflv of their lives, with cne child on their back, and another in their arms. Numbers of both fexes fled to the wood of S:. John's, t better known by the name of Ringwood, where they paffed the whole night, petrified with horror, at hearing fliots conftandy fired, the Ihouts of the rebels, and the groans of the dying- Thev kept a gloomy fiience, not venturing to fpeak to each other, lell they fhculd be diicovered.

    The rebels having heard next day, that a number of proteftants were in the wood, fent a party, well armed, to Icour it ; and they killed fuch of them as were net fortunate enough to make their efcape, Thev condnued for fome days after, to beat it as clofely as a pack of fox-hounds would.

    Internet Archive memoirsofdiffere01musg, Chapter 228

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere close to Ringwood, in 1798, people ran for their lives into this wood. It was known then as the wood of St. John's, though most called it Ringwood. Numbers of both sexes fled here, Protestants trying to escape the rebels. They passed the whole night petrified with horror, hearing shots constantly fired, the shouts of the rebels, and the groans of the dying. They kept a gloomy silence, not venturing to speak to each other, in case they should be discovered. The next day the rebels heard that a number of Protestants were hiding in the wood, and sent a party, well armed, to scour it. They killed such of them as were not fortunate enough to make their escape. They continued for some days after, to beat it as closely as a pack of fox-hounds would.

  32. Shane O'Neill's Castle on Lough Neagh

    near Lough Neagh · lake or lakes · Antrim · 1567

    Shane O'Neill raised a rebellion in Ulster in 1567 out of hatred for the English, and built a castle on Lough Neagh which he named Feogenall, meaning 'the hatred of the English'. His forces were later routed by Sir Henry Sidney.

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    ift. In 1567, Shane O'Neil railed a notable one in Uliler, merely in hatred to the Englifh ; and he erected a caftle on Loughneagh, which he named Feogenall, which figniiies, in Irifh, the hatred of the Englifh» His forces were routed and difperfed by fir ^Henry Sidney*

    2d. In 1569, the Fitz-Geralds of Munfter raifed one, in which the Byrnes, Tooles and Cavenaghs; joined ; but they were fubdued by fir William Drury, a.nd were all attainted the twenty-feventh and twentyeighth of Elizabeth.

    Internet Archive memoirsofdiffere01musg, Chapter 23

    As the companion tells it

    On Lough Neagh, Shane O'Neill raised a notable rebellion in Ulster in 1567, merely out of hatred for the English. He erected a castle on the lake and named it Feogenall, which in Irish means the hatred of the English. His forces were routed and dispersed by Sir Henry Sidney.

  33. Sick soldiers hanged and ladies taken prisoner at Ballytore

    Ballitore · town · Kildare · 1798

    Rebels attacked and killed several sick soldiers of the Suffolk fencibles, hanging some out of windows, and took two officers' wives prisoner, lodging them at the house of Abraham Shackleton in Ballytore.

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    They attacked and put to death feveral fick foldiers the Suffolk fencibles, hanging fome of them, who were in fevers, out of their windows : they took prifoners two ladies, the wives of the Suffolk officers, and lodged them in the houfe of Abraham Shackleton, * of Ballytore, under a guard of rebels. They then proceeded to murder Jefferies and Alhe ; but Mr. Cullen faved and concealed them, till they made their efcape to Athy,

    By this time the rebel force had encreafed to the number of three thoufand, and learning from their fcouts, that lieutenant Eadie had miffed the road to Calverflown, they purfued him. Major Montrefor •having proceeded with his detachment to Glaffealy^ a party of rebels from Fonflown, under the command of captain Paddy Dowling and Terry Toole, who were on their way to burn the manfion-houfe there, fled at his approach. The major then proceeded to the village Narraghmore, but too late to do any effential fervice there ; as no human being was to be feen, but the \vretched victims of favage fury, and every proteftant houfe in it was deftroyed, or confumed by fire, f The major then marched to the phice of his deftination, Red-gap hill, while captain Rudd with thirty men, flanked him through the woods of Narraghmore ; and having been joined by lieutenant Eadie, they followed the route which major Montrefor had taken.

    Internet Archive memoirsofdiffere01musg, Chapter 183

    As the companion tells it

    Ballitore is the town you are passing through. In 1798, rebels attacked sick soldiers of the Suffolk fencibles and put them to death. Some of the soldiers were in fevers, and the rebels hanged them out of their windows. They took two ladies prisoner, the wives of Suffolk officers, and lodged them at the house of Abraham Shackleton in Ballytore, under a guard of rebels. The rebels then set out to murder Jefferies and Alhe, but Mr. Cullen saved and concealed them until they escaped to Athy. By this time the rebel force had grown to about 3,000. Learning from their scouts that Lieutenant Eadie had missed the road to Calverstown, the rebels pursued him. Major Montresor had already proceeded with his detachment to Glassealy. A party of rebels from Fonstown, under Captain Paddy Dowling and Terry Toole, who were on their way to burn the mansion house there, fled at his approach. The major then proceeded to Narraghmore, but too late to do any essential service there. No human being was to be seen, only the wretched victims of savage fury, and every Protestant house was destroyed or consumed by fire.

  34. Twenty-four protestants marched from Tintern to their deaths at Scullabogue

    Tintern · townland · Wexford · 1798

    Twenty-four protestants, many old and feeble, were taken from the village of Tintern, about eight miles from Scullabogue, and driven in one group to the barn where they perished.

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    No lefs than twenty-four proteftants were taken from the village of Tintern, about eight miles dillant, many of them old and feeble, and were led in one drove to the barn, where they perifhed. *

    Thomas Shee and Patrick Prendergafl were burnt in the barn, both Romanifts, becaufe they w^ould not confent to the maiTacre of their proteftanr mailers.

    Internet Archive memoirsofdiffere01musg, Chapter 270

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere close to Tintern, in 1798, twenty-four Protestants were taken from this place, many of them old and feeble, and led in one drove to the barn at Scullabogue, where they perished. Thomas Shee and Patrick Prendergast, both Roman Catholics, were burnt there too, because they would not consent to the massacre of their Protestant masters.

  35. Reverend Birch preaches philanthropic sermon at Saintfield

    near Saintfield · town · Down · 1795

    On 25 June 1795, presbyterian minister Reverend Mr. Birch preached a sermon to a numerous body of dissenters at Saintfield recommending union of all religions, denouncing kings as butchers and scourges of the human race.

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    On the twenty-lifth of June, 1795, the. reverend Mr. Birch, a preibyterian minifler, preached a fermon to a numerous body of dilTenters at Saintfield, in which he recommended the uniting perfons of every religious perfuafion in one family, or brotherhood, in the bonds of philanthropy. lie denominated kings butchers and fcourges of the human race, \Vho revel on the fpoils of thoufands, v/hom they have made fatheriefs, widows, and orphans, until the judgment of the Almighty fhail come down on thofe monllers, and caufe them who ufe the fword to perifn by the iword.

    In the month of January, 1795, fome foldiers of the Wexford regiment were pciloned at Cavan, while on guard at the gaol.

    Internet Archive memoirsofdiffere01musg, Chapter 99

    As the companion tells it

    Saintfield is a town the road passes through. On the 25th of June 1795, the Reverend Mr. Birch, a Presbyterian minister, preached a sermon here to a numerous body of dissenters. He recommended uniting persons of every religious persuasion in one family, or brotherhood, in the bonds of philanthropy. He called kings butchers and scourges of the human race, who revel on the spoils of thousands whom they have made fatherless, widows, and orphans, until the judgment of the Almighty shall come down on those monsters, and cause them who use the sword to perish by the sword.

  36. Arklow spared destruction due to hostages taken

    Arklow · town · Wicklow · 1798

    Arklow survived largely undamaged during a 36-hour gap between the retreating army's evacuation and the arrival of General Needham. The security of the town was attributed to officers taking disaffected inhabitants as hostages whose lives would answer for any harm.

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    Arkfow fufFered much lefs than might have been ex-'* peded during an interval of thirty-fix hours, between ' the evacuation of it by the retreating army, and the arrival of major-general Needham there, on* Wednefday the fixth of June. The main body of the rebels had not approached it; and but a few petty depredations were committed by fome home infurgent?^, who, after having plundered fome houfes, went off to their aflbciates at Gorey. • The fecurity of Arklow is to be imputed to the wife precaution of the officers- commanding the army xvhich retreated to Wicklow ; who carried with them, as hoflages, a great number of its principal difaffeded inhabitants, and whofe lives would have anfwered for Tiuy wanton a£l of mifchief or barbarity committed by the others^.

    The defeat of colonel Waipole left general Loftuswith but two hundred and fifty men, in a moft alarming fituation, and it required not only addrefs, but the mofl prompt and vigorous exertion to extricate himfelf ; for, it has been fmce difeovered, that the rebel army at Vinegar-hill had formed a jundion with that which was ported on Ballymore, making in the whole above twenty thoufand men, for the purpofe of taking Gorey ; and this plan was conneded with their main objecl of attacking the metropolis, which they endeavoured to accomplifti five days after.

    Internet Archive memoirsofdiffere01musg, Chapter 255

    As the companion tells it

    Arklow came through the rebellion of 1798 in far better shape than anyone had reason to expect. There was a gap of 36 hours between the retreating army pulling out of the town and major-general Needham arriving on Wednesday the 6th of June. In that time, the main body of the rebels never came near. A few local insurgents plundered some houses, then left to join their associates at Gorey. That was the worst of it. The town's safety came down to a decision made by the officers commanding the army that retreated to Wicklow. They carried with them a great number of Arklow's principal disaffected inhabitants, as hostages. The understanding was that those hostages' lives would answer for any wanton act of mischief or barbarity committed by the rest. The wider picture was grave. Colonel Walpole's defeat left general Loftus with only 250 men in an alarming situation. It was later discovered that the rebel army at Vinegar Hill had formed a junction with the force posted on Ballymore, making above 20,000 men altogether, with the purpose of taking Gorey. That plan was connected to their main objective of attacking the metropolis, which they attempted five days after.

  37. Assassination attempt on captain Rawson in a shrubbery

    Narraghmore · townland · Kildare · 1798

    Captain Rawson published loyal addresses at chapels near Narraghmore, for which he was condemned by a committee of assassination; a hired ruffian lay in wait to murder him in a shrubbery near his house but failed because his armed son was present.

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    In the month of January, 1798, captain Rawfon,. to undeceive and conciliate the people, publifhed addrefles at all the chapels in his neighbourhood, of which fee a copy in Appendix, No. XV. and for this, his noted loyalty, and his aftive exertions as a magiftrate, he was condemned by a committee of alTaffination, which fat in his vicinity ; and the ruffiaa who made an attempt on the life of Mr. Darragh, having been employed' to murder him, lay in wait for him at different times, in a fhrubbery near his houfe, and would have affailinated him, but that he was fortunately attended by his fon, who was armed.

    On the memorable twenty-fourth of May, an exprefs arrived from Dunlavin to general Campbell^ and intelligence was brought to captain Rawfon, that the popifh multitude were in a ftate of infurredion on every fide, and the proteflant inhabitants of Narraghmore requefted to know what meafures they were to take for their protedion. The general fent an exprefs to Dunlavin, with dire£lions how to proceed ; and captain Rav^dbn fent another to Narraghmore, with orders to the loyalills to fall back on Glaffealy, with an affurance that a party would foon go to their afliftance ; but both the expreifes were murdered by the way ; and fuch of the unfortunate proteftants of Narraghmore as could not effe6l their efcape, remained in the village, without any afliftance.

    Internet Archive memoirsofdiffere01musg, Chapter 180

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere around here, in January 1798, Captain Rawson tried to undeceive and conciliate the people by publishing addresses at all the chapels in his neighbourhood. His noted loyalty and his active exertions as a magistrate made him a target. A committee of assassination sat in his vicinity and condemned him. The ruffian who had already made an attempt on the life of Mr. Darragh was employed to murder Rawson. He lay in wait at different times in a shrubbery near Rawson's house. He would have assassinated him, but Rawson was fortunately attended by his son, who was armed. On the 24th of May, an express arrived from Dunlavin to General Campbell, and intelligence was brought to Captain Rawson that the populace were in a state of insurrection on every side. The Protestant inhabitants of Narraghmore requested to know what measures they were to take for their protection. The general sent an express to Dunlavin with directions how to proceed, and Rawson sent another to Narraghmore, ordering the loyalists to fall back on Glassealy, with an assurance that a party would soon go to their assistance. But both expresses were murdered by the way, and such of the Protestants of Narraghmore as could not effect their escape remained in the village without any assistance.

  38. Assassination plot committee meeting in Dublin cabaret

    Dublin · city · Dublin · 1797

    James Dunn proposed the murder of the Earl of Carhampton to a committee of sixteen United Irishmen meeting at the house of Maurice Dunn, a relation who kept a cabaret in Dublin.

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    Not vvithftan ding thefe obligations, James Dunn repaired to the houfe of Maurice Dunn, a relation iu Dublin, who kept a cabaret, on Sunday the feventh of May, and offered to a commit cee of fixteen united Irifhmen who were then fitting there, to do-out his friend and benefador, the earl of Carhampton. This w^as a common cant expreffion among the united Irifhmen, for murdering a perfon.

    When he made the propofal, one perfon faid it was great news ; another glorious news ; another, the beft news he had heard a long time.

    Internet Archive memoirsofdiffere01musg, Chapter 118

    As the companion tells it

    Dublin, in 1797. On Sunday the 7th of May, James Dunn went to the house of Maurice Dunn, a relation who kept a cabaret in the city. A committee of sixteen United Irishmen was sitting there. James Dunn offered to do out the Earl of Carhampton, his friend and benefactor. To do out was a cant expression among the United Irishmen for murdering a person. When he made the proposal, one man said it was great news. Another called it glorious news. A third said it was the best news he had heard in a long time.

  39. Attack on widow Piper at Tincurry signals rebellion to Enniscorthy

    Tincurry · townland · Wexford · 1798

    A party of rebels attacked the house of the widow Piper at Tincurry, four miles from Enniscorthy, wounding her desperately and murdering her nephew, communicating the first symptoms of open rebellion to the garrison there.

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    Thefe outrages, the firfh fymptoms of open rebellion, were communicated to the garrifon of Ennifcorthy, ^ in the following manner : A party of thefe . rebels attacked the houi'e of the widow Piper, at . Tincurry, four miles from that town, wounded her in a defperate manner, murdered her nephew, a

    young.

    Internet Archive memoirsofdiffere01musg, Chapter 216

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere close to Tincurry, in 1798, a party of rebels attacked the house of the widow Piper. They wounded her desperately and murdered her nephew. These outrages were the first symptoms of open rebellion, communicated to the garrison of Enniscorthy, four miles from there.

  40. Battle at the bog road turnpike near Narraghmore

    Narraghmore · townland · Kildare · 1798

    Captain Rudd's party was attacked and surrounded by three thousand rebels near the bog road turnpike; major Montresor's relief resulted in two hundred rebels dead and as many wounded.

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    thoufand rebels from Narraghinore, on whom they kept up a brilk fire, for near half an hour, which brought the major, and his party to their aiiiftance. The rebels having perceived his approach, placed a number of wool packs on cars, which happened accidentally to be palling by ; and fome of their rnarkfmen concealed behind them, fired and killed feveri of the Suffolk fencibles, and then retreated to their main body. E-U the major purlued, and obtained ample revenge ; for in a fliort time, two hundred rebels lay dead, and as many more were wounded. In thefe different conliids,, and in the fcenes of carnage, conflagration and plunder, which occurred in the courfe of that day, fixty papiits of the Narraghmore corps in their uniforms, fought with the rebels ; for which, eighteen of them were fhot, feveral were hanged, fome fled the country, and others came in under the proclamation, offering pardon to repentant rebels, and received protections.

    The main object of the rebels in that part of the county of Kildare, was, to join thofe of the Queen's county, and the county of Carlow ; and to have affifled them in taking poffeffion of the town of Carlow. Notwithilanding their different defeats, they colleded a party of one thoufaiid two hundred, and were proceeding to accompHfh their original plan } but, in pafliiig through Caftiedermot to Carlow, they were attacked by captain Mince, who commanded there a fmall party of the fixth regiment of foot. After the fecond difcharges they were routed, :and feveral of them were killed ; and fir Richard Eutler, who went with his troop of yeomen cavalry to the aiiiftance of captain Mince, purfued them and took many prifoners, of whom two were hanged; and the remainder, through the clemency of government, were fet at liberty.

    Internet Archive memoirsofdiffere01musg, Chapter 183

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere around here, near Narraghmore, three thousand rebels attacked and surrounded Captain Rudd's party at the bog road turnpike in 1798. They kept up a brisk fire for near half an hour, until Major Montresor brought his party to their assistance. The rebels saw Montresor coming. They placed wool packs on cars that happened to be passing by, and some of their marksmen concealed themselves behind them. They fired and killed several of the Suffolk fencibles, then retreated to their main body. Montresor pursued and obtained, in the words of the record, "ample revenge." In a short time, two hundred rebels lay dead, and as many more were wounded. Sixty papists of the Narraghmore corps, in their uniforms, fought with the rebels that day. Eighteen of them were shot. Several were hanged. Some fled the country. Others came in under the proclamation offering pardon to repentant rebels, and received protections. The rebels' main object in that part of Kildare was to join those of Queen's County and County Carlow, and to help them take possession of the town of Carlow. Despite their defeats, they collected a party of twelve hundred and set out to accomplish their plan. Passing through Castledermot on the way to Carlow, they were attacked by Captain Mince, who commanded a small party of the sixth regiment of foot. After the second discharges they were routed, and several were killed. Sir Richard Butler went with his troop of yeomen cavalry to assist Captain Mince, pursued them, and took many prisoners. Two were hanged. The remainder, through the clemency of government, were set at liberty.

  41. Belfast mail-coach destroyed near Santry

    Santry · townland · Dublin · 1798

    As a signal for a general rising, the Belfast mail-coach was destroyed and burnt near Santry, with the perpetrators urging local cottagers to rise, falsely claiming Dublin Castle and city were already in rebel hands.

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    The Belfall coach therefore was deilroyed and burnt near Santr)^, the Cork mail-coach at Naas, and that going towards Athlone at Lucan. The perfons who perform.ed that fervice at Santry, deiired the inhabitants of the neighbouring cottages to rife and join them ; having affured them that the caftle and city of Dublin were at that time in polTeflion of their friends. So fare were they that the confpirators muft fucceed !

    Near the Curragh of Kildare. the rebels murdered the guard, and the coachman of the mail-coach going to Limerick.

    Internet Archive memoirsofdiffere01musg, Chapter 146

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere close to Santry, the Belfast mail-coach was destroyed and burnt in 1798, as a signal for a general rising. Those who did it called on the people of the neighbouring cottages to rise and join them, assuring them that Dublin Castle and the city were already in the hands of their friends. That was false. The Cork mail-coach was burnt at Naas the same way, and another at Lucan, heading towards Athlone.

  42. Birthplace and education of Father Michael Murphy

    Kilnew · townland · Wexford

    Father Michael Murphy, a leading rebel figure, was born at Kilnew near Kilmuckridge of mean parents and educated at a hedge-school at Oulart before going abroad for ordination.

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    As father Michael Murphy, who afled with fuch profound diflimulation, made a confpicuous figure in the rebellion, I fliall fay a few words on his origin and progrefs through life. He was born at Kilnew, near Kilmuckridge, | of mean parents, and was bred at a hedge-fchool at Oulart, by one Prendergaft, an itinerant pedagogue ; and having received holy or^ ders, he went to Bourdeaux, recommended to the

    Vol. L E e Abbe

    Internet Archive memoirsofdiffere01musg, Chapter 221

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere around here, Father Michael Murphy was born, near Kilmuckridge, of what the record calls mean parents. He was educated at a hedge-school at Oulart, taught by one Prendergast, an itinerant pedagogue. Having taken holy orders, he went to Bordeaux. The book calls him a man of profound dissimulation, and says he made a conspicuous figure in the rebellion.

  43. Bishop Caulfield protects a fugitive in Wexford

    Wexford · town · Wexford · 1798

    Doctor Caulfield, the Roman-catholick bishop, visited and protected the diarist despite being warned in the street against sheltering protestants, and lamented that the rebellion was becoming a ruinous religious war.

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    " In the evening, do(5feor Caulfield, the Romancatholick bifhop, came, and was very kind to me, J. R. having told him who I was. The doftor faid^ he was cautioned in the ftreet, to beware how he protected proteflants. He gave m^ a proteftion, but^ like B. Harvey, faid, He had no influence : That the people could not be defcribed : That in reality, the devil was roaming at large among (I them : That their power never could hold : That they were making it a religious war, which would ruin them : That government was too flrong, and muft conquer : That this rebellion had been hatching four years.'* I think he might have given government notice of it. *

    Second of June, the mob were conftantly talking in the ftreet of punilhing proteftants. Colonel Lehunte, and many others, went to the chapel, and renounced their religion ^ were chriflened ; and then marched in proceffion through the ftreets.

    Internet Archive memoirsofdiffere01musg, Chapter 288

    As the companion tells it

    In Wexford, in 1798, Doctor Caulfield, the Roman Catholic bishop, came to visit the diarist, who had been told to him by J. R. The bishop said he had been cautioned in the street to beware how he protected Protestants. He gave the diarist a protection, but said he had no influence. He said the people could not be described, that the devil was roaming at large among them, that their power never could hold. He said they were making it a religious war, which would ruin them. He said government was too strong and must conquer. He said this rebellion had been hatching four years. On the second of June, the mob were constantly talking in the street of punishing Protestants. Colonel Lehunte and many others went to the chapel, renounced their religion, were christened, and then marched in procession through the streets.

  44. Capture and interrogation of father Martin near Meeting of the Waters

    Meeting of the Waters · population centre · Wicklow · 1798

    About three o'clock on the morning of 24 June, two yeomen patrolling near the meeting of the waters, between Arklow and Rathdrum, seized a well-dressed man on an exhausted horse who refused to identify himself and was conducted to Rathdrum for examination.

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    About three o'clock, on the morning of the twenty-fourth of June, two yeomen patroiing near the meeting of the waters, a place between Arklow and Rathdrum, faw a wellrdrelTed man, on a horfe covered with foam and fweat, from fevere riding ; they feized him, and demanded who he was, and whence he came. He anfwered, that he was a gentleman,' and had been riding about for pleafure, to fee the beauties of the country. Having conducted him to Rathdrum, he was examined by the commanding ofBcer there, but would not give an account of himfelf.

    A young gentleman of Drogheda, a recruiting officer, who was prefent, recognifed the prifoner, gave privately a brief hiftory of him to captain Giffard, and requefted that he would k^ep it a profound fecret.

    Internet Archive memoirsofdiffere01musg, Chapter 208

    As the companion tells it

    On the morning of 24 June 1798, near Meeting of the Waters, between Arklow and Rathdrum, two yeomen on patrol seized a well-dressed man on a horse covered with foam and sweat from hard riding. They demanded who he was and where he came from. He said he was a gentleman, out riding for pleasure to see the beauties of the country. They took him to Rathdrum, where the commanding officer examined him, but he would not give an account of himself. A young gentleman from Drogheda, a recruiting officer who was present, recognized the prisoner. He gave Captain Giffard a brief private history of the man and asked that it be kept a profound secret.

  45. Casey's crimes at Rathangan

    Rathangan · townland · Kildare · 1798

    Casey, the rebel commander killed at Foxes-hill, had been principally concerned in atrocities committed at Rathangan, including the murder of Mr. Semple, whose boots were found on his body.

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    Cafey had been principally concerned in the atrocities committed at Rathangan ; the uniform great coat of Mr. Spenfer, and the boots of Mr. Semple, a yeoman, murdered there, having been found upoii him.

    Lieutenant Tyrrell entertained the moft f^nguine expectations that fuch decifive advantages againft the rebels would have reflored peace and tranquillity ; but the arrival of four thoufand Wexford rebels in the county of Kiidare, commanded by general Perry, and one Kearns, a popifh prieft, blafted all his hopes, and fpread defolation in the country which he was appointed to defend. I fhall poftpone a description of their progrefs and operations, till I have men* tioned their defeat in the county of Wexford.

    Internet Archive memoirsofdiffere01musg, Chapter 177

    As the companion tells it

    Near here, in 1798, Casey was principally concerned in the atrocities committed at Rathangan. Mr. Spencer's uniform great coat and Mr. Semple's boots were found on him. Mr. Semple was a yeoman, murdered there. Casey was the rebel commander, killed at Foxes-hill. Lieutenant Tyrrell had entertained the most sanguine expectations that such decisive advantages against the rebels would have restored peace and tranquillity. But the arrival of 4,000 Wexford rebels in the county of Kildare, commanded by General Perry and one Kearns, a popish priest, blasted all his hopes and spread desolation in the country which he was appointed to defend.

  46. Cavalry charge on the sands and Yellow-lane at Arklow

    Arklow · town · Wicklow · 1798

    As the rebels retreated from Arklow, cavalry under Colonel Sir W.W. Wynne charged them, cutting many down on the sands, while others escaped up the Yellow-lane into enclosures where cavalry could not follow.

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    This being obferx-ed, the cavalry on the bridge, under colonel fir W. W. Wynne, was ordered to charge, and that officer led them on with his ufual gallantry againft the enemy, many of whom were cut down on the fands TT, and the reft made their efcape up the Yellow-lane P, and into the enclofures, where the cavalry could not follow them.

    "While this warm conflid was maintained at the lower end of the town, the attack was fupported with ftill more obftinacy againft the barricade at D ; by which the rebels were in hopes of making their way to the rear of our little army. This column was led on by father Michael Murphy, the prieft, of Ballycanew, who endeavoured to animate them by every argument and exhortation that could work on their bigotry. Many of their chiefs, who led them on to fucceflive attacks," wete killed within a, few yards of our guns.

    Internet Archive memoirsofdiffere01musg, Chapter 279

    As the companion tells it

    Arklow in 1798 was the scene of fighting in the rebellion. As the rebels retreated, cavalry on the bridge under Colonel Sir W.W. Wynne were ordered to charge. He led them on against the enemy. Many were cut down on the sands. The rest escaped up the Yellow-lane and into the enclosures, where the cavalry could not follow. While that conflict was maintained at the lower end of the town, rebels pressed their attack against a barricade, hoping to make their way to the rear of the army. That column was led by Father Michael Murphy, priest of Ballycanew, who urged them on with every argument and exhortation that could work on their bigotry. Many of their chiefs, who led them on to successive attacks, were killed within a few yards of the guns.

  47. Cavalry patrol narrowly avoids ambush near Clontarf

    Clontarf · parish · Dublin · 1798

    A party of Merchants corps cavalry patrolling at Clontarf returned rapidly to Dublin on hearing drums beat to arms, fortunately taking the Strand Road rather than the upper road near Sir William Newcomen's, where they would have been cut off by rebels.

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    A party of the Merchants corps of cavalry, who were ordered to patrol at Clontarf, hearing the drums beat to arms in Dublin, returned rapidly to it, thinking that the infurreclion had begun. They fortunately went by the Strand-road ; for had they gone by the upper one, near fir William Newcomen's, they would have been cyt .qff by a numerous party of rebels, who were on each fide of the road»

    Neilfon, in his attack upon Newgate, was to have been feconded by a large body of rebels, headed by one SeagravC;, who was to have taken poffeffion of Mr. Halpin's diftillery, at the corner of Pettyc-oatiane, the windows of which flanked it, and they were to have kept up a conftant fire on the front of the prifon, while another party fcaled its walls in a different quarter.

    Internet Archive memoirsofdiffere01musg, Chapter 145

    As the companion tells it

    Clontarf, the parish the road takes you through. In 1798, a party of the Merchants corps of cavalry were ordered to patrol here. They heard the drums beat to arms in Dublin, and thinking the insurrection had begun, they returned rapidly to the city. They took the Strand Road, and that choice saved them. If they had gone by the upper road, near Sir William Newcomen's, rebels were waiting on each side of it, and the patrol would have been cut off. As it was, they came back the way fortune chose for them.

  48. Confederate Catholic Assembly at Kilkenny

    Kilkenny · city · Kilkenny · 1642–1649

    During the reign of Charles I, popish lords, prelates, clergy and deputies chosen from counties and towns assembled at Kilkenny, forming a supreme council of confederate Catholics and binding themselves by an oath resembling that of the United Irishmen, to obey the council's decrees and never accept peace without its consent.

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    In the diftra^ed reign of Charles 1. the popiftji lords, prelates, and clergy, and popifh deputies, chofen by feveral counties and towns in the different provinces, aflembled at Kilkenny, regulated all their proceedings with the forms and folemnity of parliament, and bound themfelves by oath, " that they would obey and ratify all the orders and decrees made, or to be made, by the fupreme council of the confederate catholicks of the kingdom , that they would not feek directly or indirectly any pardon or protection for any act to be done touching the general caufe ; and that they would not accept or fubmit unto any peace, made or to be made, with the faid confederate catholicks, without the confent thereof;" and by the preamble to faid oath it ap-r pears, that it muft have been adminiftered univerfally.

    " "Whereas it is requifite, that there fhould be an unanimous confent, and real union, between all the catholicks of this realm."]

    Internet Archive memoirsofdiffere01musg, Chapter 24

    As the companion tells it

    During the reign of Charles 1, the Catholic lords, prelates, and clergy, and deputies chosen by several counties and towns in the different provinces, assembled at Kilkenny. They regulated all their proceedings with the forms and solemnity of parliament, and bound themselves by oath. The oath stated that they would obey and ratify all the orders and decrees made, or to be made, by the supreme council of the confederate Catholics of the kingdom. They swore they would not seek directly or indirectly any pardon or protection for any act to be done touching the general cause, and that they would not accept or submit unto any peace, made or to be made, with the said confederate Catholics, without the consent thereof. By the preamble to that oath it appears that it must have been administered universally. The preamble began with the words: whereas it is requisite, that there should be an unanimous consent, and real union, between all the Catholics of this realm.

  49. Eight hundred rebels attack eight garrison houses in Prosperous

    Prosperous · town · Kildare · 1798

    A captured rebel prisoner revealed that the soldiers were quartered in eight different houses at Prosperous, each to be attacked simultaneously on the signal of a gun fired in the churchyard, with eight hundred rebel assailants involved, losing three captains and near a hundred men.

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    Next morning they took a rebel prifon^r, who gave the following information, as to their number and their mode of attack : The foldiers were quartered in eight different houfes, each of which was to be attacked at the fame moment, by the fignal of a gun fired in the church-yard. The number of the alfailants was eight hundred. They lofl three captains,^ and near one hundred men. Captain Beevor's fervant was (hot in his bed. He, lieutenant Patrickfon, cornet Maxwell, and all the privates of the dragoons and the militia, difplayed fmgular fpirit and intrepidity againfl fo great a fuperiority of numbers. *

    INSURRECTION AT KILDARE. t

    Internet Archive memoirsofdiffere01musg, Chapter 166

    As the companion tells it

    In 1798 at Prosperous in Kildare, the next morning they took a rebel prisoner who gave information as to their number and their mode of attack. The soldiers were quartered in eight different houses, each to be attacked at the same moment, by the signal of a gun fired in the churchyard. The number of the assailants was eight hundred. They lost three captains and near a hundred men. Captain Beevor's servant was shot in his bed. Beevor, Lieutenant Patrickson, Cornet Maxwell, and all the privates of the dragoons and the militia displayed "singular spirit and intrepidity" against so great a superiority of numbers.

  50. Elderly pensioner soldier murdered at Prosperous for his religion

    Prosperous · town · Kildare · 1798

    The rebels murdered a man above seventy years old, a retired army sergeant living on pension at Prosperous, solely because he was a protestant.

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    The rebels murdered a man above feventy years eld, who had ferved the greateft parr of his life in the army as a ferjeant, and had retired on a penficn to Profperous, merely becaufe he was a proteftant.

    Of the city cf Cork detachment they killed one captain, two ferjeants, one drummer, twenty-three privates, and wounded eight, of wtiom two died afterwa^'ds : The remainder of the company happened very fortunately to be fent on a party a day or two before, a few miles oii.

    Internet Archive memoirsofdiffere01musg

    As the companion tells it

    Prosperous in County Kildare. In 1798, the rebels murdered a man above 70 years old. He had served the greatest part of his life in the army as a sergeant, and had retired on a pension to Prosperous. They killed him merely because he was a Protestant.

  51. Fatal clash between Benburb volunteers and Armagh chapel congregation

    near Armagh · town · Armagh

    Benburb volunteers marching unarmed to church in Armagh were stoned by a Catholic congregation; on their return, now armed, a conflict ensued in which two of the congregation were killed and others wounded on both sides.

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    The Benbuib corps of volunteers, in the county of Tyrone, having proceeded, without arms, to hear divine fervice at the church of Armagh on a Sunday, headed by Mr. Young, one of their officers, paifed by a RomiHi chapel, the congregation of which abufed, and threw flones at them. The volunteers, having procured fome fire-arms at Armagh, the alfercation was renewed at their return, and ended in a confliCl:, in which two of the popilh congregation were killed, and fome perfons were wounded on both fides. It was conjedured that the former were prepared for the combat, as they had five mufkets.

    The volunteers were very much cenfured for having returned by the fame road, when they might have taken another.

    Internet Archive memoirsofdiffere01musg, Chapter 41

    As the companion tells it

    Armagh saw a bloody confrontation between volunteers and a chapel congregation. The Benburb corps of volunteers, from the county of Tyrone, marched without arms to hear divine service at the church of Armagh on a Sunday. They were headed by Mr. Young, one of their officers. Passing by a Romish chapel, the congregation abused them and threw stones. The volunteers then procured some firearms at Armagh. On their return, the altercation was renewed and ended in a conflict. Two of the popish congregation were killed, and some persons were wounded on both sides. It was conjectured that the former were prepared for the combat, as they had five muskets. The volunteers were much censured for having returned by the same road, when they might have taken another.

  52. Father Michael Murphy's Letter Found at Gorey

    Gorey · town · Wexford · 1798

    Rebel general father Michael Murphy wrote a letter at Gorey to Thomas Houston of Dublin proving rebel intentions to march on the metropolis; the letter was found on Murphy's body after the battle of Arklow by general Skerrett.

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    The following letter was written by the rebel general, father Michael Murphy, at Gorey, on the fixth inflant, to Thomas Houfton, of Thomas-ftreet, Dublin, which fufficiently proves the determination of the rebel chieftains to march to and attack the metropolis. Soon after the battle of Arklow, general Skerrett met a foldier, who had fome plunder in his hands ; among other things, a watch, a crucifix, and the following letter which he had found on the body of father Murphy :

    " Friend Houfton ! Gorey, 6th June.

    Internet Archive memoirsofdiffere01musg, Chapter 275

    As the companion tells it

    Gorey, in 1798, was where the rebel general Father Michael Murphy wrote a letter to Thomas Houston of Thomas Street, Dublin. The letter proves the rebel chiefs meant to march on and attack the metropolis. After the battle of Arklow, General Skerrett met a soldier carrying plunder, a watch, a crucifix, and this letter, found on Murphy's body.

  53. Father Murphy's origins at Tincurry, Ferns

    Tincurry · townland · Wexford · 1785

    Father John Murphy's father was a petty farmer at Tincurry in the parish of Ferns, where he was educated at a hedge-school kept by a man named Gun before receiving holy orders at Seville, Spain in 1785.

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    intemperate, that he began his military career at fiit o'clock on Saturday evening the twenty-fixth of May y and confidering the time of its duration, and the limits to which it was confined,, we muft allow that it was as deftru6live as that of Attila, Gengis Kan^ or Tamerlane. His father was a petty farmer at Tincurry, in the parifh of Ferns, where he was educated at a hedge-fchool, kept by a man of the name of Gun. It appears by his teftimonium and diploma, * that he received holy orders at Seville in Spain^ in the year 1785 ; and, I prefume^ that he graduated there as a doftor of divinity, as he affumes that title In his journal, f which he dropped in his retreat from Vinegar-hill, and which was found by captain Hugh Moore of the 5th dragoons, aid-de-camp to general Needham,

    As one Webfter, a proteilant neighbour of doftor Murphy, was returning from Gortj^ he met him near Boulavogue, about four o'clock on Saturday the twenty-fixth of May, and was faluted by him with great cordiality ; and yet, in about three hours after, the do£lor was at the head of a numerous party of rebels, who burned the houfes of Webfter, J., and his brother, and many of his proteftant neighhours.

    Internet Archive memoirsofdiffere01musg, Chapter 216

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere close to Tincurry, Father John Murphy began. His father was a petty farmer here in the parish of Ferns, and it was here that young John was educated at a hedge-school kept by a man named Gun. From this humble start he went far. His testimonium and diploma show he received holy orders at Seville in Spain in 1785, and he likely graduated there as a doctor of divinity, for he uses that title in his journal. That journal was dropped during his retreat from Vinegar Hill and found by Captain Hugh Moore of the 5th dragoons, aide-de-camp to General Needham. What followed was swift and terrible. On Saturday the 26th of May, a Protestant neighbor named Webster was returning from Gort and met Father Murphy near Boulavogue at about four o'clock. Murphy saluted him with great cordiality. Yet within three hours, the doctor was at the head of a numerous party of rebels, and they burned the houses of Webster and his brother and many of his Protestant neighbors.

  54. Father Roche's deceit and threat against Grange garrison

    Grange · townland · Wexford · 1798

    Father Roche, later a rebel general, falsely reassured Rev. Mr. Richards of Grange that the people were peaceable, then threatened to attack his house with five thousand men and cannon unless the Horneck family and Protestant tenants were surrendered; Richards refused and fled with sixteen families to Ross.

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    Two or three days before the rebellion broke out^ father Roche, the priefl, who became afterwards a general, waited on the reverend Mr. Richards, of Grange, his neighbom', gave him fome arms wiiich he faid had been furrendered to him ; and at the fame time affured him that nothing was to be feared as the people were loyal and peaceable. When the infurredlion took place fixteen proteftant families fled to the houfe of Grange, f and kept garrifon there. Father Roche, in two or three days after his pacifick alfurances to Mr. Richards, went to his houfe with two men more, and promifed him, that neither his perfon or property fhould be injured, provided he delivered to him the Horneck family and the proteftant tenants of captain Blacker ; but if he refufed, that his houfe would be immediately attacked by five thoufand men, with two pieces of cannon ; but Mr. Richards rejeded this infamous propofal with

    laudable

    Internet Archive memoirsofdiffere01musg, Chapter 241

    As the companion tells it

    Close to Grange, two or three days before the rebellion broke out in 1798, Father Roche, a priest who later became a rebel general, called on the Reverend Mr. Richards. He brought arms he said had been surrendered to him and assured Richards there was nothing to fear, that the people were loyal and peaceable. When the rebellion took place, sixteen Protestant families fled to the house and kept garrison there. Within two or three days of his assurances, Father Roche returned with two men. He promised that neither Richards's person nor property would be harmed, provided he delivered up the Horneck family and the Protestant tenants of Captain Blacker. If he refused, his house would be immediately attacked by five thousand men with two pieces of cannon. Richards rejected this infamous proposal and fled with the sixteen families to Ross.

  55. Father Sutton administers rites to wounded Davis at Enniscorthy

    Enniscorthy · townland · Wexford · 1798

    Father Sutton of Enniscorthy, present at the rebel camp, administered the rites of his church to the badly wounded Charles Davis before he was taken home and recovered under medical care.

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    have a prleft, as he could not obtain falvation without one.'* Father Sutton, of Ennifcorthy, | who was in the camp, adminiftered the rites of his church to him, and told him he was forry to fee him in that Situation ; but as there was no profpe6l of his recovery, he was glad that he was to die under his hands. He was then delivered to his wife^ who conveyed him to his own houfe ; where, with the aid of medical alllflance, he recovered. Thefe facls have been verified by affidavit, and are univerfally known. Charles Davis, who is now living, fliewed jne his wounds,

    John Mooney, fervant to dodor Hill, and a prp« teftant, was taken prifoner, and conduced to the wind-mill prifon, on the top of Vinegar-hill, the thirty-firft day of May ; and found there fixteen proteftant prifoners, with fome of whom he had been long acquainted. They were defired to prepare for death ; and foon after a ruffian entered the prifon with a drawn haiiger, and began to torture the prifoners by way of amufement ; but the rebel centinel ftopped him, and faid, that as they were to die foon, it was cruel to torment them. In a few minutes one of the prifoners was dragged out of the mill door^ and fliot ; and foon after the remainder were executed in the fame manner. Among theni jthere was a well-drelfed refped:able looking man^ and his fon, a boy about thirteen years old. The father feemed to bear his approaching diffiolution with great fortitude, fuppofmg that they would not injure his fon, on account of his tender age ; but what agoni^zing pangs muft he have felt, when his child v/as butchejed in his prefence ! and he, when led out to execution, was obliged to ftep over his bleeding corpfe, which fell acrofs the door,

    Internet Archive memoirsofdiffere01musg, Chapter 236

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere around here in 1798, Father Sutton of Enniscorthy was in the rebel camp when a badly wounded man named Charles Davis was brought in. Davis could not obtain salvation without a priest. Father Sutton administered the rites of his church to him and told him he was sorry to see him in that situation. But as there was no prospect of his recovery, the priest said he was glad that Davis was to die under his hands. Davis was then delivered to his wife, who conveyed him to his own house. There, with the aid of medical assistance, he recovered. These facts were verified by affidavit and were universally known. Davis, still living at the time, showed the narrator his wounds. On the thirty-first of May, John Mooney, servant to Doctor Hill and a Protestant, was taken prisoner and conducted to the wind-mill prison on the top of Vinegar Hill. He found sixteen Protestant prisoners there, some of whom he had long known. They were told to prepare for death. A ruffian entered with a drawn hanger and began to torture the prisoners for amusement, but a rebel sentinel stopped him, saying that as they were to die soon, it was cruel to torment them. One prisoner was dragged out of the mill door and shot, and soon after the rest were executed in the same manner. Among them was a well-dressed, respectable man and his son, a boy about thirteen years old. The father bore his approaching death with great fortitude, supposing they would not injure his son on account of his tender age. But the child was butchered in his presence, and when the father was led out to execution, he was obliged to step over his son's bleeding corpse, which lay across the door.

  56. Felix Rourke Deserts to Become Rebel Colonel

    Rathcoole · town · Dublin · 1798

    Felix Rourke, permanent sergeant of the Rathcoole corps, deserted to the rebels days before the rebellion broke out and was appointed a rebel colonel, later contesting a captaincy for his brother against Lieutenant Clinch.

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    Felix Rourke, the permanent ferjeant, had been early appointed a colonel of the rebels, and had deierted to them fome days before the rebellion broke out. He and they took oaths of allegiance. His brother had been a competitor with Heutenant Clinch for a captaincy in the rebel corps of Rathcool ; but the influence of Felix was fuch, as to obtain fuccefs for his brother ; and the zeal of Clinch in the rebel caufe was fo great, that he continued to ferve in it as a ferjeant.

    Lieutenant John Clinch was the fon of a very w^ealthy man, had received fome education, was naturally humane and benevolent, but was perfuaded by the malignant influence of father Harold, his parifh prieft, to violate his oath of allegiance, and to become a traitor ; for which he was tried and executed in Dublin the fecond of June.

    Internet Archive memoirsofdiffere01musg, Chapter 156

    As the companion tells it

    This is Rathcoole. In 1798, Felix Rourke was the permanent sergeant of the Rathcoole corps. He deserted to the rebels some days before the rebellion broke out and was appointed a colonel of the rebels. He and they took oaths of allegiance. His brother had been a competitor with Lieutenant Clinch for a captaincy in the rebel corps of Rathcoole. The influence of Felix was such as to obtain success for his brother. The zeal of Clinch in the rebel cause was so great that he continued to serve in it as a sergeant. Lieutenant John Clinch was the son of a very wealthy man, had received some education, was naturally humane and benevolent. But he was persuaded by the malignant influence of Father Harold, his parish priest, to violate his oath of allegiance and become a traitor. He was tried and executed in Dublin the second of June.

  57. Furlong Shot Carrying Flag of Truce at Ross

    New Ross · townland · Wexford · 1798

    A soldier at an outpost shot Furlong, a messenger sent by Bagenal Harvey with a flag of truce to general Johnson demanding surrender of the town, as rebels attacked Ross.

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    A foldier, at an out-poft, fiiot Furlong, a man of mean appearance, when in full gallop towards the town, and without any other emblem of his being a herald, or a meffenger of peace, than his having a white handkerchief in his hand ; and the letter, which was found in his pocket, contained nothing but a peremptory requifition to general Johnfon, to furrender the town to Bagenal Harvey, commander in chief ; with which that brave officer would not have complied.

    It has been faid, that Bagenal Harvey was depofed, becaufe he fhewed a want ot courage in this a£tion ; but this is fcarce credible ; for he difplayed very great firmnefs in various duels which he had fought in the courfe of his life.

    Internet Archive memoirsofdiffere01musg, Chapter 273

    As the companion tells it

    Close to New Ross, in 1798, a man named Furlong rode in full gallop towards the town. Bagenal Harvey, commander in chief, had sent him with a letter demanding that General Johnson surrender the town. Furlong carried no emblem of his being a herald or a messenger of peace, except a white handkerchief in his hand. A soldier at an outpost shot him. The letter found in his pocket contained nothing but a peremptory requisition to General Johnson to surrender the town to Bagenal Harvey. It has been said that Harvey was deposed because he showed a want of courage in this action. But that is scarce credible. He displayed very great firmness in various duels which he had fought in the course of his life.

  58. General Campbell shells the manor house at Narraghmore

    Narraghmore · townland · Kildare · 1798

    As troops passed the manor house of Narraghmore, disaffected persons fired on them from it; general Campbell ordered it attacked with cannon and it was set on fire, the shooters killed in the woods trying to escape.

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    As they palfed by the manfion-houfe of Narraghmore, fome difafteded perfons fired at the troops from it ; on which general Campbell ordered it to be attacked with cannon^ After fome difcharge of artillery it was fet on fire ; and the fellows who had fired at the troops were killed in the woods, as they rwere endeavouring to make their efcape.

    When the general entered Ballytore, he found it deferted by every male, except Mr. Francis Johnfon, a furgeon ; and as fome of the Tyrone regiment had repeatedly feen hirn commanding the rebels, the fight of him kindled fuch indignation in them, that one of them bayoneted him through the breaft, on which he fell. He rofe again, laid his hand on his wound, and ftrongly, and with many oaths afferted his innocence. Several of the foldiers cried out, that they had frequently feen him at the head of the rebels — an open was made — five of the Suffolk fen^ cibles prefenied their mulkets at him ; when he found that all fubterfuge was vain, he exclaimed, " Since I mull die, guilty as I am, the Lord have mercy ou me !" and he was inftantly fent into eternity.

    Internet Archive memoirsofdiffere01musg, Chapter 183

    As the companion tells it

    Close to Narraghmore, a manor house stood here in 1798. As troops passed by it, some disaffected persons fired at them from the house. General Campbell ordered it attacked with cannon. After several discharges of artillery, the house was set on fire. The men who had fired at the troops were killed in the woods as they tried to escape. When the general entered Ballytore, he found it deserted by every male except Mr. Francis Johnson, a surgeon. Some of the Tyrone regiment had repeatedly seen him commanding the rebels, and the sight of him kindled such indignation that one of them bayoneted him through the breast. He fell. He rose again, laid his hand on his wound, and strongly, with many oaths, asserted his innocence. Several of the soldiers cried out that they had frequently seen him at the head of the rebels. An opening was made. Five of the Suffolk Fencibles presented their muskets at him. When he found that all subterfuge was vain, he exclaimed, "Since I must die, guilty as I am, the Lord have mercy on me!" and he was instantly sent into eternity.

  59. Hanging of rebel leader James Curry

    Rathangan · townland · Kildare · 1798

    James Curry, a rebel leader and supposed muster-master, incited fellow rebels in the streets of Rathangan to punish the men of Coolelan and Ballinure for not joining; he was hanged within two hours.

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    On Monday morning one James Curry, a leader of them, and fuppofed to be a muiler-mafter, cried out in the ftreets, What is become of the boys of Coolelan and Ballinure?* dan;m them, flick them to the heart, for not joining us.'* The favages fw^ore vehemently that they would do fo ; and faid, we are the boys that will do their bufinefs. That villaint was between fixty and feventv ; he \va3 hanged in tw^o hours after.

    They

    Internet Archive memoirsofdiffere01musg, Chapter 170

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere around here, on a Monday morning in 1798, a rebel leader named James Curry, said to be a muster-master, stood in the streets and called out, What is become of the boys of Coolelan and Ballinure? He urged the crowd to strike them for not joining the rebellion. The men swore they would. Curry was between 60 and 70 years old. He was hanged within two hours of crying out.

  60. Hanging of three rebels at Gorey

    Gorey · town · Wexford · 1798

    On Whitsunday a horse patrol from Gorey captured three rebels in arms in the surrounding countryside and hanged them in the town; they admitted before death that their priest had incited them into rebellion.

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    On Whitfunday a horfe patrol from Gorey took three rebels in arms in the adjacent country, and hanged them in the town. They owned in their laii: moments that they were incited by their pried to enter into the rebellion.

    Intelligence having been communicated to government, that the fame body of rebels, with a large reinforcement from Vinegar-hill, meditated another attack on Gorey, to oppofe them, general Loftus was ordered to proceed from Dublin to Rathdrum, in the county of Wicklow, the twenty-ninth of May, with two hundred of the Dunbarton fencible infantry, and fifty of the 5th dragoon guards, which detachment was commanded by heutenant-colonel Scott, who, on the following day, cleared the woods of Donane and the Devil's-glynn of the banditti which had attacked Newtown- mount-kennedy the preceding day.

    Internet Archive memoirsofdiffere01musg, Chapter 251

    As the companion tells it

    Coming up now is Gorey, the Wexford town. On Whitsunday in 1798, a horse patrol from the town seized three rebels bearing arms in the countryside round about, and hanged them here in Gorey itself. In their last moments they owned that they were incited by their priest to enter into the rebellion.

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