The neighborhood of Dublin : its topography, antiquities and historical associations

Each story keeps the passage it was read from. Open one to read the passage as the book has it, and, where the companion has written its own telling, that too.

1. Drowning of Arthur Usher in the Dodder

   Rathfarnham · townland · Dublin · 1628

   Boate's account states that Mr. John Usher, father of Sir William Usher, was carried away by the current of the Rathfarnham water (the Dodder) and drowned, with nobody able to help him despite many friends being present. The author notes this is likely a confusion with Arthur Usher of Donnybrook, who drowned in the Dodder on 2nd March 1628.

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   " of their corn, whereunto the windmills are very little used in " Ireland, because they have the conveniency, through the great " number of brooks, to erect watermills in every quarter where " it is necessary : which bring a great profit to the owners " being kept and maintained with less cost and labour. . . . " Of these dangerous brooks there are two hard by Dublin, " both running into the haven somewhat more than a mile " from the city — the one at north side thereof, a little below " the village Drumcondra, which is seated upon the highway " from Dublin to Drogheda ; and the other at the south side, " close by the Rings-end. This, called Rathfarnum water " [the Dodder], of the village by which it passeth two miles " from the sea and the same distance from Dublin, is far the " worst of the two, as taking its beginning out of those great " mountains southwards from Dublin, from whence after any " great rain, such abundance of water is descending to it that " the same, which at other times is of very little depth, groweth " thereby so deep, and exceeding violent that many persons " have lost their lives therein. Amongst others Mr. John " Usher, father to Sir William Usher that now is, who was " carried away by the current, nobody being able to succour *' him, although many persons, and of his nearest friends, both " a-foot and horseback, were by on both the sides.

   " To go from Dublin to Rathfarnum, one passeth this river " upon a wooden bridge ; the which although it be high and " strong, nevertheless hath several times been quite broke, " and carried away through the violence of sudden floods ; " although at other times, and w^hen that brook doth only " carry its ordinary water, a child of five years may easily and " without danger wade through it ; and a tall man on horseback " riding underneath it [the bridge] not being able to reach it. " In the great floods the water many times riseth so high as that " it doth not only touch, but floweth quite over the bridge."

   Internet Archive neighborhoodofdu00joyc, Chapter 56

2. Dunboyne ordered to aid defence of Trim, 1423

   Dunboyne · town · Meath · 1423

   A writ dated 28 July 1423 during the reign of Henry VI ordered the Portreeve and Commons of Dunboyne, with the able men of their bailiwick, to proceed to Trim to aid in its defence.

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   1423, ordering the Portreeve and Commons of the town of Dunboyne with the able men of their bailiewick to proceed to Trim and aid in its defence. In 1534 the village was sacked and burnt by Silken Thomas immediately before the siege of Maynooth Castle, and in 1798 it suffered considerable damage, the church and many of the houses being burnt. Turning to the left at the end of the village, we keep straight ahead for about two miles, where we again turn to the left, and after a mile and a half, once more turning to the left, we meet a road on the right crossing the Midland Railway and leading into

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   Internet Archive neighborhoodofdu00joyc, Chapter 182

   As the companion tells it

   As you pass through Dunboyne here in Meath, the town carries an old military duty in its past. In 1423, during the reign of Henry VI, a writ ordered the Portreeve and Commons of Dunboyne, along with the able men of their bailiwick, to proceed to Trim and aid in its defence. Later calamities followed the town as well. In 1534 Silken Thomas sacked and burnt the village, immediately before his siege of Maynooth Castle. And in 1798 it suffered considerable damage, the church and many of the houses being burnt.

3. Failed Cloghleagh iron mine venture

   Cloghleagh · townland · Wicklow

   A stone house was built as residence for the manager of the Cloghleagh iron mine about fifty years before writing, but no earnest attempt was made to work the mine successfully, and machinery obtained from England was never assembled.

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   Descending again to the road, which, it ma-\' be mentioned, is 1,602 feet over sea level at this point, we continue our journey now down hill, over a rather rough surface, to the Camp, a little over a mile distant, where the road crosses the head waters of the Shankill river. About half a mile further on, we turn to the right by the road leading to Ballinascorney, again crossing the river by a bridge on the site of the old Shankill ford. If, however, the excursionist is on foot, or if he is not afraid of taking his bicycle along a rather rough track through the heather, it will be ^\•ell worth while to diverge from the road on the left, by the pathway which crosses the river, and leads to the Cloghleagh iron mine. The high mountains, Gravale, Mullaghcleevaun, and Moanbane present an imposing appearance from this point, traces of snow often rem.aining on their summits as late as mid-summer. Keepmg to the pathway, we presently reach a curious-looking stone house, which was erected as a residence for the manager of the iron mine some fifty years ago. It would seem that no earnest attempt was ever made to work this undertaking to a successful issue, as the great stone segments of the crushing wheel, now lying beside the river, and other machinery obtained from England, were never put together, so that the whole concern was a failure from the

   Internet Archive neighborhoodofdu00joyc, Chapter 72

4. Geoghegan's verses on ruined Rathgar Castle

   near Rathgar · townland · Dublin

   The poet Geoghegan, author of The Monks of Kilcrea, described the ruined state of Rathgar Castle in verse, depicting broken walls, wild grass, ivy, and desolation.

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   *' Rathgar, upon thy broken wall, Now grows the lusmore rank and tall— - Wild grass upon thy hearthstone springs, And ivy round thy turret clings ; The night-owls through thy arches sweep, Thy moat dried up, thy towers a heap, Blackened, and charr'd and desolate — The traveller marvels at thy fate ! "

   5) 11

   Internet Archive neighborhoodofdu00joyc, Chapter 84

5. Goatstown's goat breed and sanative beverage houses

   near Goatstown · population centre · Dublin

   Goatstown, near Dundrum, was known for its special breed of goats, and some houses which once accommodated visitors who came to drink the 'sanative beverage' (goat's milk whey) still survive.

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   Not far from Dundrum is Goatstown, which claimed a special excellence for its breed of goats, and where still may be seen some of the houses which accommodated the visitors who resorted thither to drink the " sanative beverage."

   Near the southern end of the village of Dundrum, within private grounds, and almost entirely concealed by trees from the eye of the wayfarer, is the ancient castle of Dundrum, believed to have been erected by one of the Fitzwilliam family, \\\\o came into possession of these lands towards the close of the 13th century. The ruin is kept in excellent order, and is almost covered with ivy.

   Internet Archive neighborhoodofdu00joyc, Chapter 81

   As the companion tells it

   You're coming through Goatstown, not far from Dundrum. This place was known for a special breed of goats, and people used to come here to drink what they called the "sanative beverage" — goat's milk whey. Some of the houses that accommodated those visitors can still be seen today.

6. John Dunton's 1699 description of Finglas and its sea view

   Finglas · parish · Dublin · 1699

   John Dunton, the eccentric Dublin bookseller, described Finglas in his 1699 work The Dublin Scuffle as a fine town on a hill with a noble prospect of the sea and the ships in Dublin harbour.

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   John Dunton, the eccentric Dublin bookseller, in The Dublin Scuffle (i6gg) refers to " the fine town of Finglas, seated " on a hill, where I had a noble prospect of the sea and of " all the ships in the harbour of Dublin.

   " All other times I would walk through the green meadows " from the end of Stoneybatter to the Kabragh, which is a " village about a mile from my lodging, full of stately trees, " which give a pleasant shade and delightful prospect. From " thence as I came back I had the sea and harbour directly " in my view."

   Internet Archive neighborhoodofdu00joyc, Chapter 122

7. Kingstown view from Duncan's 1821 map showing Martello tower and old lighthouse

   Kingstown · townland · Dublin · 1821

   Duncan's 1821 map title scroll includes a view of Kingstown and the Bay from near Martello Avenue, showing a Martello tower on rising ground, open country to Kingstown, and the old squat Poolbeg Lighthouse in the distance, along with the Royal Hotel under construction.

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   The principal object in this view is a Martello tower which stood on the rising ground at Martello Avenue. An enclosure with low walls adjoins the tower, and in the immediate foreground is a pool with some rocks beside it. Open country extends from the tower to Kingstown, and no buildings intervene between the main road and the sea except a few small cottages on the shore, where there appears to be a rough

   :S?:^>*!SsHW^««^

   Internet Archive neighborhoodofdu00joyc, Chapter 212

8. Knocksedan fort and its name origin

   Knocksedan · street · Dublin

   At Knocksedan there is a remarkable flat-topped fort or rath from which the locality takes its name, meaning 'the hill of the blast' due to its exposed position, standing fifty feet above the river bed.

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   Leaving I-usk, we reach the main road again at Coldwinters, two miles distant, and on entering Swords, take the second turn to the right, inquiring the way to Knocksedan, where there is a very remarkable flat-topped fort or rath from which the localitv derives its name. Knocksedan means " the hill ''' of the blast," from its exposed position, it being fifty feet

   3i6 THE NEIGHBOURHOOD OF Dl'BLIN

   Internet Archive neighborhoodofdu00joyc, Chapter 139

9. Manor of Esker granted to de Bermingham family

   Esker · parish · Dublin · 1248–1615

   In 1248 the Manor of Esker was granted to Peter de Bermingham, whose descendants held it until the mid-14th century; a 1615 regal visitation found the church in repair but its chancel in ruins.

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   In 1248 the Manor of Esker was granted to Peter de Bermingham, whose descendants retained possession of it until the middle of the following century. From a " regal visitation "

   356 'i"HE NEIGHBOLRHOOD OF DUBLIN

   Internet Archive neighborhoodofdu00joyc, Chapter 152

   As the companion tells it

   The parish of Esker lies along this road. In 1248 the Manor of Esker was granted to Peter de Bermingham, whose descendants held it until the middle of the following century. A regal visitation in 1615 found the church in repair but its chancel in ruins.

10. Modern round tower at Portrane memorial to Mrs Evans's husband

    Portrane · street · Dublin

    A modern round tower about 100 feet high was erected on rising ground near the Asylum by Mrs Evans as a memorial to her husband, whose bust stands inside; the entrance is reachable only by ladder, in imitation of ancient round towers.

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    Adjoining the Asylum is a modern round tower, erected on the summit of a rising ground by a former proprietor, Mrs.

    Ballisk, Portrane. (1905.)

    Internet Archive neighborhoodofdu00joyc, Chapter 134

11. Monument to the Duke of Dorset at Ballybrack

    Ballybrack · townland · Dublin · 1815

    A pyramidal limestone monument at St. Columba's in Ballybrack commemorates the accidental death of George John Frederick, 4th Duke of Dorset, while hunting in 1815.

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    Accidentally lost his life 14th Feb. 18 15.

    On reaching Church Road turn to the right, and proceed for some distance until an entrance gate is seen on the left, bearing the names " Balure " and " Larkfield " ; pass through

    Internet Archive neighborhoodofdu00joyc

12. North Bull sandbank a favourite duelling ground

    near North Bull or The Island · townland · Dublin

    The North Bull, a large sandbank island covered with green sward and sand dunes, was in the days of duelling a favourite place for these encounters.

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    In the days of duelling, the North Bull was a favourite place for these encounters.

    From Dollymount and the Bull, the most conspicuous object in the view is the Hill of Howth, which, with its bright green fields, pretty villas, and patches of furze and heather, forms a pleasing and attractive picture.

    Internet Archive neighborhoodofdu00joyc, Chapter 116

13. Our Lady's Well at Mulhuddart church ruin

    Mulhuddart · parish · Dublin

    Near the ruined old church at Mulhuddart is Our Lady's Well, enclosed by a stone covering with two niches for statues.

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    wood known as the Great Wood of Blanchardstown or Scald Wood, in the possession of the Luttrells, and a considerable portion of it still remains to the north and east of the i-illage. Continuing our journey, after a mile and a half further, we enter the hamlet of Mulhuddart, situated on the right bank of the Tolka and traversed by one of its tributaries. A little over half a mile to the north-east is the ruin of the old church, close to which is Our Lady's Well, enclosed by a stone covering with two niches for statues.

    In an account of " A Journey from Dublin to the Shores of Lough Dergh," written by Isaac Butler about 1741, it is stated in regard to Mulhuddart Church, that " Ye Church, " at present in ruins, is situated on a hill and dedicated to ye " Virgin Mary ; from it appears a most extensive and delightful " prospect into ye County of Dublin and Meath ; in it was *' committed a most barbarous and infamous action by some "of ye neighbouring Inhabitants in September, 1690, a Com- " pany of Colonel Foulkes men in their march to Dublin by " stormy and rainy weather, retreated into ye Church for " Shelter, but were all of them murthered in cold Blood before " ye morning, some of ye wretches were afterwards executed " in Thomas Street, Dublin, among ym Pat Moore, And. " Cannon, Ph. Strong, Jhn. Cummin, &c., others made their '■ escapes."

    Internet Archive neighborhoodofdu00joyc, Chapter 181

14. Raheny's ancient rath and vanished holy well

    Raheny · townland · Dublin

    Raheny, anciently Rath Enna or Enna's Fort, retains distinguishable circumvallations of its rath near the old Protestant church, which stands on the site of a more ancient edifice. St. Ossan's holy well, once in the field between church and railway station, is now covered up, its site marked only by a depression and a bush.

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    cumvallations of this rath are still distinguishable v.\ places near the old Protestat,t church, Avhich is built on the site of a more ancient edifice that stood within the circuit of the rath. St. Ossan's holv well was formerly in the field between the church and the railway station, but it is now covered up^ and its waters drain into the Santry River close by. A depression in the ground and a bush still marks its site.

    A mile beyond Raheny, the road by a long decline reaches the shore, at " The Whip of the Water," where it meets the electric tramwav, and presently passes the storm-beaten rui:'s of the ancient churclx of Kilbarrack, the most conspicuous object along the flat unbroken sweep of shore. In its lonely churchyard sleep many who, in times more perilous for sea-

    Internet Archive neighborhoodofdu00joyc, Chapter 141

15. Robbery of English party near Rathcoole, 1644

    Rathcoole · town · Dublin · 1644

    On 2nd July 1644 a small body of English were attacked and robbed of £200 by twenty Irish horsemen near Rathcoole, an incident referred to in a letter from the Marquess of Ormonde.

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    On the 2nd July, 1644., a small body of English were attacked and robbed of ;^200 by twenty Irish horsemen. The incident

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    Internet Archive neighborhoodofdu00joyc, Chapter 109

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Rathcoole, this town carries an incident from the 2nd of July 1644. A small body of English were attacked and robbed of £200 by 20 Irish horsemen. The Marquess of Ormonde referred to it in a letter.

16. Royal Hospital appropriation reshapes Park boundary

    Phoenix Park · electoral division · Dublin · 1680

    In 1680 a Royal Warrant led to 64 acres of the Park being appropriated for the Royal Hospital, requiring readjustment of the southern boundary and giving the Park its modern shape.

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    In 1680 a Royal Warrant having been issued for the erection of the Royal Hospital, and for the appropriation to its use of 64 acres from the lands of the Park, it became necessary to re-adjust the southern boundary, and opportunity was at the same time taken to detach all the lands at the south side of the river from the Park, which thereupon assumed its . modern shape and dimensions.

    Within the past few years the strips of land along the river between Islandbridge and Chapelizod have been acquired by the Crown as a technical addition to the Phoenix Park, which, therefore, extends now as it did of old to the south side of the Liffey. The immediate purpose of this acquisition was, however, to prevent the disfigurement of the view from the Park by the erection of unsightly buildings along the river.

    Internet Archive neighborhoodofdu00joyc, Chapter 179

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Phoenix Park, you are moving through a place that took its modern shape in 1680. That year a Royal Warrant was issued for the erection of the Royal Hospital, and 64 acres of the Park were appropriated for its use. The southern boundary had to be readjusted, and all the lands at the south side of the river were detached from the Park at the same time. In more recent years the Crown acquired strips of land along the river between Islandbridge and Chapelizod, extending the Park back to the south side of the Liffey as it once did. The purpose was to prevent unsightly buildings from disfiguring the view from the Park.

17. Rush pier built under James II

    Rush · town · Dublin · 1685–1688

    Rush harbour, though difficult of access and exposed to heavy seas, was fitted with a pier built in the reign of James the Second, and the town was noted by Hollinshed as a chief haven town of Ireland.

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    greatly exposed to heavy swells of the sea when tlie wind blows hard from the north-east. The pier was built here in the reign of James the Second.

    Rush is mentioned by Hollinshed as being one of the chief haven towns of Ireland, and in more recent times was celebrated for its fisheries, particularly of ling, which were caught and cured in great quantities by the inhabitants. Adjoining the town is Kenure Park, containing a fine mansion, formerly known as Rush House, now the residence of the Palmer family. In 1666 the manor of Kenure was granted to the Duke of Ormonde, passing subsequently to the Echlin family, who have since become impoverished, and are now represented by Sir Henry Echlin, residing in England ; and from the Echlin family the estate was purchased by an ancestor of the present proprietors. The house, which is a spacious and handsome structure, contains some fine paintings as well as a rare collection of vases, and other relics from Pompeii,

    Internet Archive neighborhoodofdu00joyc, Chapter 137

18. Shrimps vanish from Irishtown strand after 1741 hard frost

    Irishtown · townland · Dublin · 1741

    The strand at Irishtown was once noted for abundant cockles and shrimps, but after the severe winter of 1741 known as 'The hard frost,' the shrimps disappeared completely and never returned to the coast.

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    The strand at Irishtown w^as at one time noted for its cockles and shrimps, the shrimps being found in great quantities at certain states of the tide, but after the severe winter of 1741, known as " The hard frost," they completely disappeared and never since returned to this coast. The cockles, however, still remain for those who have the courage to eat them, and occasionally yield a rich harvest to the professional cockle pickers. Going to Sandymount on Sunday to pick cockles was a favourite amusement of the Dublin folk a hundred years ago.

    Cranfield's Baths, for many years a well-known institution in this neighbourhood, were established by Richard Cranlield, who died at Irishtown in 1859.2

    Internet Archive neighborhoodofdu00joyc, Chapter 15

19. Site of the Kirwan murder on Ireland's Eye

    Ireland's Eye · townland · Dublin · 1800–1899

    On the eastern side of Ireland's Eye, among the sea-carved caves, is the scene of the now almost forgotten Kirwan murder, described as a terrible tragedy of the last century.

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    trouble of visiting it ; the most interesting portion being the eastern side, where the detached rocks are of great size and fantastic shapes, and holIo\ved out by the action of the sea into numerous caves. On this side also is the scene of the now almost forgotten Kirwan murder — a terrible tragedy of the last century.

    The view from the heights comprises, to the south — the hill, harbour, and town of Howth, with the castle embosomed in its woods ; to the right of these, the Isthmus of Sutton • and then, in succession, Baldoyle, Portmarnock, and to the northward the fertile tract of Fingal ; while across the city haze may be discerned the rounded forms of the Dublin mountains, their summits outlined in picturesque profile, and their bases indistinct and blurred by the smoke of the Metropolis.

    Internet Archive neighborhoodofdu00joyc, Chapter 147

20. Skerries pier funded by Irish Parliament, 1755 and 1767

    Skerries · town · Dublin · 1755–1767

    The Irish Parliament granted £2,000 in 1755 and a further £1,500 in 1767 for construction of a pier at Skerries; it later fell into decay before being repaired and extended by Hans Hamilton.

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    In 1755 the Irish Parliament granted j/^2,000 for the construction of a pier at Skerries, and in 1767 ^^1,500 more for t lc same purpose. It subsequentl\- fell into decay, but was repaired, and e?:tended by Hans Hamilton, an ancestor of the present Lord Holmpatrick.

    The country around Skerries is prettily diversified, and the ruins of a few old windmills, situated on adjacent eminences, lend a somewhat picturesque effect. As we return from Red Island along the main street, we come to a turn on the right, past the Protestant church, where a finger-post shows the road to Dublin. To reach Baldongan we take this road, being careful, however, not to take the turn to the right from it immediately outside the town. The road is upl ill most of the way to the ruins, which are conspicuously situated on the summit of a rising ground, about two miles from Skerries,

    Internet Archive neighborhoodofdu00joyc, Chapter 137

21. St. Maelruan's ancient walnut tree in the palace gardens

    near Tallaght · town · Dublin

    The extensive gardens of the old palace at Tallaght contain an immense walnut tree hundreds of years old, called St. Maelruan's tree after the patron saint of Tallaght.

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    The extensive gardens of the old palace still remain, and are kept in good order as an appanage of the monastery. They contain an immense walnut tree hundreds of years old, called St. Maelruan's tree after the Patron Saint of Tallaght.

    The Protestant Church, at the far end of the village, is built on the site, and partly of the materials of a much more ancient edifice, which seems to have been originallv enclosed by a kind of circumvallation, traces of which still remain. The old ivy-clad belfry tower beside the modern structure is portion of the old church which was taken down in 1829. In the interior of the church are a monument and memorial tablet to Sir Timothy Allen, who was Lord Mayor of Dublin in 1762, and who lived near Oldbawn in a house which has since been called Allenton.

    Internet Archive neighborhoodofdu00joyc, Chapter 97

22. The Black Quarries, a romantic wild spot near Clontarf

    Clontarf · parish · Dublin

    A spot beside the Howth Road near Clontarf station called 'The Black Quarries' was noted in former years for its romantic wildness, and is now enclosed within the grounds of Mount Temple.

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    Adjoining the grounds of Marino is the terrace known as Marino Crescent, built in 1792, where the Malahide and Howth roads diverge, and, according to current tradition in the neighbourhood, erected in this position for the purpose of intercepting the view from Marino, the builder having entertained some private grudge against Lord Charlemont. A short distance along the Howth Road, just beside Clontarf station, is a spot noted in former years for its romantic wildness, called " The Black Quarries," now enclosed within the grounds of Mount Temple.

    A few paces further along the shore road, passing under the railway, we come into view of the Bay, with the Pigeonhouse and the two river lighthouses in front, to the right of these the hills of Dalkey and Killiney, the wooded country rising behind Blackrock and Kingstown, and in the background the Dublin and Wicklow Mountains in profile, their bases obscured bv the smoke and haze of the city.

    Internet Archive neighborhoodofdu00joyc, Chapter 116

23. The Fairy Hill and Fairy Well

    Tymon Lane · street · Dublin

    Along Tymon Lane, near a little stream, stands a slight elevation called 'The Fairy Hill' beside 'The Fairy Well', surrounded by luxuriant vegetation and wild flowers.

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    From this point the road descends to the course of a little stream close to which is a slight elevation called " Tlie Fairy Hill," and beside it " The Fair\' \\'el]," surrounded by luxuriant vegetation and a \vealth of wild flowers. A few paces further along this sequestered by-way will be seen the picturesque ivied ruin of Tymon or Timothan Castle, situated on a grassy knoll in a commanding position above the adjoining, road. It is a rather small edifice, but, standing as it does on an eminence rising from the plain, is a conspicuous object for some distance around. It had apparently only two apartments,

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    Internet Archive neighborhoodofdu00joyc, Chapter 95

24. The old ford of Templeogue before the bridge

    Templeogue · townland · Dublin · 1800

    Before Templeogue Bridge was built around 1800, all traffic between the area and Firhouse had to ford the Dodder river at this point, which was wider before the Drainage Commissioners narrowed its bed.

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    sary to continue along the tram road for about a quarter of a mile further, where the old road will be seen sloping down to the river bed. Templeogue Bridge was not built until about 1800, and before that time, all vehicles going to or coming from the neighbourhood of Firhouse, had to ford the river here, which was, however, at that time much wider, its bed having been subsequently restricted by the Drainage Commissioners. Crossing here by the stepping-stones, we enter an ancient roadwa}', whose moss-grown, ivy-clad walls attest its antiquity, and after crossing a stile, we emerge upon the main road to Firhouse.

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    Internet Archive neighborhoodofdu00joyc, Chapter 86

25. The Vanished Black Rock of Blackrock

    Blackrock · townland · Dublin · 1825

    The original black rock (calp limestone) that gave Blackrock its name has disappeared, buried under deposits of rubbish used to raise the level before the People's Park was laid out; some vein remnants were used in railway construction.

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    In A Narrative of an Excursion to Ireland, by members of the Honorable Irish Society of London, privately circulated in 1825, the writer, referring to a journey from DubHn to Blackrock, says : — " There are some very neat cottages on the road, *' the thatching of which is the very best work of the kind I " have ever seen, and although I had heard much of the neat- " ness of these buildings, they far exceeded my most sanguine " expectations. I looked out in various directions for the " Black Rock, expecting to see some stupendous mass —

    " ' Huge as the tower which builders vain " ' Presumptuous piled on Shinar's plain.'

    Internet Archive neighborhoodofdu00joyc, Chapter 21

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere around here, the black rock that gave Blackrock its name has vanished. It was calp limestone, buried under rubbish used to raise the ground before the People's Park was laid out, and whatever vein remnants survived went into railway construction. By 1825 it was already gone. A writer from the Honorable Irish Society of London, in a privately circulated Narrative of an Excursion to Ireland, described the road from Dublin and noted neat cottages with fine thatching, then said he looked out in various directions for the Black Rock, expecting what he called some stupendous mass, but found nothing.

26. Thomas Furlong the Wexford poet's grave near Grose's

    near Drumcondra · townland · Dublin · 1827

    Thomas Furlong, a poet from Wexford, was buried near Grose's grave in Drumcondra churchyard, dying in 1827.

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    Near Grose's grave is buried Thomas Furlong, the Wexford poet, who died in 1827.

    Although such a short distance from Dublin, the district between Drumcondra and Swords for many years bore the unenviable reputation of being one of the most dangerous in the neighbourhood of the Metropolis, repeated robberies, both of mail coaches and foot passengers, as well as other outrages, having taken place in it up to the early part of the last century. The following are some of the most noteworthy instances on record : —

    Internet Archive neighborhoodofdu00joyc, Chapter 118

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere close to Drumcondra lies the grave of Thomas Furlong, the Wexford poet, who died in 1827 and was buried near Grose's grave. The district between here and Swords once carried an unenviable reputation as one of the most dangerous near the city. Repeated robberies of mail coaches and foot passengers took place up to the early part of the last century.

27. Tobermaclaney fishing quay near the Velvet Strand

    Portmarnock · town · Dublin

    A small quay for landing fish was constructed about 100 years before writing near the Martello tower at what was then known as Tobermaclaney (Maclaney's well), when the coast had a much larger population than at the time of writing.

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    Resuming our journey, a laneway will be seen on the left, nearly opposite the church, bearing the picturesque designation of " Blackberry Lane." and after passing the rise in the road, the shore again comes into view at the northern extremity of the Velvet Strand. Just under the point where the Martello tower stands, a small quay for hnding fish was constructed about 100 years ago, when there was a much larger population along this coast than at the present time. The place was then known as Tobermaclaney, meaning Maclaney's well, and a depression in the ground near the tower marks the site of the well, the waters of which, having been disturbed by

    THE VELVET STRAND— ROBSWALL 279

    Internet Archive neighborhoodofdu00joyc, Chapter 126

28. Trinity Well patron held on Trinity Sunday, Lambay

    Lambay Island · townland · Dublin

    Near the centre of Lambay Island is Trinity Well, surrounded by shrubs and bushes, where in former years a patron (religious gathering) was held on Trinity Sunday.

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    Nearly in the centre of the island is Trinity well, surrounded by shrubs anH bushes, where in former years a patron was held on Trinity Sunday. Rising above this and to the north is Knockbane, 418 feet high, the greatest elevation on the island.

    Internet Archive neighborhoodofdu00joyc, Chapter 209

29. Workmen's settlement beside the Dalkey quarries

    Dalkey Hill · electoral division · Dublin

    The extensive quarrying works for Kingstown Harbour required a small army of workmen, whose descendants remained near the original settlement beside the quarries into the author's time.

    Read the passage

    tensive were the various works in connection with the undertaking that the employment of a small army of workmen became necessary, descendants of whom remain to the present day near the original settlement beside the quarries.

    About the time that Kingstown first assumed its modern title, a person standing on the ground now occupied by Sandycove Railway Station, and looking along the open country road towards the newly-named town, beheld a view which, except ■for its setting, would scarcely be recognised by a modern inhabitant. Not a house intervened between the observer and a group of cottages around the Royal Marine Hotel ; and about

    Internet Archive neighborhoodofdu00joyc, Chapter 29

30. Blessington Yeomanry corps of 1815

    Blessington · town · Wicklow · 1815

    In 1815 Blessington furnished a corps of Yeomanry for the protection of that portion of the county, reflecting the town's civic and military role in the period.

    Read the passage

    In 1815 Blessington furnished a corps of Yeomanry for the protection of that portion of the county.

    To reach Ballymore-Eustace from Blessington the best route is to follow the tram rails as far as the sheds known as " The Tram Stores," where the road to the right should be taken. There is a shorter and more direct road, but being more undulating, no econom\' in point of time will be effected by choosing it. About 2i miles from Blessington the road enters a dense plantation, and immediately afterwards passes

    Internet Archive neighborhoodofdu00joyc, Chapter 168

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Blessington in Wicklow, the town has a quiet military echo from 1815. That year Blessington furnished a corps of Yeomanry for the protection of that portion of the county, a civic duty that put local men in arms to keep order across this part of Wicklow.

31. Brickfield Town on the site of modern Sandymount

    near Sandymount · townland · Dublin · 1756–1770

    Rocque's map shows the site of modern Sandymount village occupied by 'Brickfield Town,' with Lord Merrion's brickfields extending along the shore to Merrion.

    Read the passage

    John Rocque's maps of the City and County, in several editions, circa 1 756-1 770, are excellent maps, showing such an advance on their predecessors, that it is quite possible to identify most of the main roads and many of the by-roads. They were issued in various scales. On the 1762 edition the Grand Canal is shown as " Part of the New Canal." Very little is shown in Rathmines and Rathgar, but Rathgar Avenue and its continuation as far as the Dodder, now known as Orwell Road, appear as a high road. The Dodder was then crossed by a ford near this point. The site of the modern Sandymount village is occupied by " Brickfield Town," and Lord Merrion's brickfields extend thence along the shore to Merrion. Sandymount Avenue and Serpentine Avenue are recognisable, as also Simmonscourt Road. Many of the mountains are showni with their present names, but

    483

    Internet Archive neighborhoodofdu00joyc, Chapter 211

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere around here, between 1756 and 1770, John Rocque's maps of the City and County show this ground as "Brickfield Town" rather than Sandymount village. Lord Merrion's brickfields stretched from here along the shore to Merrion. Sandymount Avenue and Serpentine Avenue were already recognisable on the map, as was Simmonscourt Road. The Grand Canal appeared as "Part of the New Canal," and the Dodder was crossed by a ford rather than a bridge near where Orwell Road now runs.

32. Cherry-tree house near the old ford, Rathfarnham

    Cherryfield · street · Wicklow

    A small eighteenth-century house called Cherry-tree, later renamed Cherryfield, stood near the old ford opposite Spawell House and is identified as the site associated with the printed spa ballad, with Rathfarnham as its postal address.

    Read the passage

    Nearly opposite Spaweil House, on the other side of the river and close to the old ford, there was, in the eighteenth century, a small house beside the old road, known as Cherrytree. Long afterwards it was enlarged and partially rebuilt, whereupon the name was altered to Cherryfield, its present designation. This, doubtless, was " The Cherry-tree, Rathfarnham," where the above ballad was printed, Rathfarnham probably having been the postal address. The house can be seen from both the Firhouse and Tallaght roads.

    The hour for assembHng at the Spa was eight o'clock a.m., and as the journey from town occupied about an hour, its patrons had to rise soon after six, so that in addition to whatever benefits they derived from drinking the waters, it obliged them to keep regular hours and to go to bed early instead of spending half the night gambling and drinking, as was customary in these hard-living times.

    Internet Archive neighborhoodofdu00joyc, Chapter 87

    As the companion tells it

    Along here there stood in the eighteenth century a small house beside the old road, known as Cherry-tree, nearly opposite Spawell House on the other side of the river and close to the old ford. Long afterwards it was enlarged and partially rebuilt, and the name was changed to Cherryfield. This was doubtless the Cherry-tree at Rathfarnham where a spa ballad was printed, Rathfarnham being the postal address. The spa itself drew patrons who had to assemble at eight in the morning, and since the journey from town took about an hour, they rose soon after six. Besides whatever benefits they got from drinking the waters, it obliged them to keep regular hours and go to bed early, instead of spending half the night gambling and drinking, as was customary in those hard-living times.

33. Corr Castle, the 'Dane's Castle' outpost of Howth Castle

    near Sutton · street · Dublin

    Corr Castle, a square tower also called 'The Dane's Castle', stands in the old racecourse on the isthmus of Sutton. It was probably an outpost of Howth Castle built to command views of the sea on each side of the isthmus, and was later used as a standhouse for races.

    Read the passage

    farers, were cast up by the waA es — some, unknown and unidentified, passengers of stout ships wrecked upon the treacherous shallows oif the shore — others, fisher folk caught by the tide or overwhelmed by sudden storm in their frail skiffs. Beneath an illegible headstone in this churchyard is buried the notorious Higgins, better known as " The Sham Squire." In a little over half a mile beyond Kilbarrack we reach the isthmus of Sutton, on which the Howth and Hill tram lines intersect. On the right, as we proceed towards Howth, will be seen the square tower known as Corr Castle, and sometimes called " The Dane's Castle," standing in the old racecourse. This building has been supposed to be the remnant of a more extensive structure, but was probably only an outpost of Howth Castle, built in this position so as to command a view of the sea en each side of the isthmus, which would have been a great advantage in the troublous times when it was erected. It was formerly used as a standhouse when the races were held here.

    A mile beyond this point the road enters Howth town, within the memory of many, a village of miserable hovels, but greatly improved and extended in recent years.

    Internet Archive neighborhoodofdu00joyc, Chapter 141

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere about Sutton stands Corr Castle, a square tower sometimes called "The Dane's Castle," standing in the old racecourse on the isthmus. It has been supposed to be the remnant of a more extensive structure, but was probably only an outpost of Howth Castle. Its position here was chosen to command a view of the sea on each side of the isthmus, which would have been a great advantage in the troublous times when it was erected. It was formerly used as a standhouse when the races were held here.

34. Harold's Cross Green taken over in 1894

    near Haroldscross · population centre · Dublin · 1894

    Harold's Cross Green remained in a wild natural state, used by horses, donkeys, and goats for grazing, until 1894 when it was taken over by the Rathmines Commissioners and converted into a public park.

    Read the passage

    Harold's Cross Green remained, until 1894, in the wild state of nature in wliich it had existed for hundreds of years, affording a precarious livelihood to a number of horses, donkeys, goats, and otlier animals, which were rudely dispossessed of their ancient patrimony when the Green was taken over -by the Rathmines Commissioners and converted into a pubHc park.

    In the earlier part of the last century there was a Yeomanry corps called " The Uppercross FusiHers," many of whom were workingmen from this neighbourhood ; but the uniforms and equipments of these warriors were of a very crude description and made the wearers seem litter subjects for the ridicule than the admiration of the inhabitants.

    Internet Archive neighborhoodofdu00joyc, Chapter 94

35. Kiltiernan church ruins and lost castle

    Kiltiernan · townland · Dublin · 1600–1699

    In the sequestered village of Kiltiernan stand the ivied ruins of an ancient church surrounded by thorn and elder trees. A castle also stood in the village in the 17th century, but no trace or even its site now survives.

    Read the passage

    A little over a mile from Stepaside we reach the high ground at the head of the Glenamuck road, from which may be seen the Bay as well as the district intervening between us and the coast, and shortly afterwards we enter the small village of Kiltiernan, consisting of a row of neat slated cottages. Here, in a sequestered position are the ivied ruins of an ancient church, surrounded by thorn and elder trees, and presenting evidences of great antiquity. A castle also stood in the village in the 17th century, but no trace of it now survives, and even its site has been forgotten. Down to about sixty years ago there were paper mills and a cotton factory in Kiltiernan affording considerable employment in the neighbourhood.

    About half a mile west of Kiltiernan, on the wild mountainside, surrounded by fern and heather, is one of the largest cromlechs in Ireland, commonly known as " The Giant's " Grave," the table stone of which is 22 feet long by i$i feet wide, and is estimated to weigh about 40 tons. The supporters, judging from their irregular positions, would appear to have suffered some considerable disturbance.

    Internet Archive neighborhoodofdu00joyc, Chapter 81

36. Montpelier Parade built by Mr. Molesworth Green

    Temple Hill · street · Dublin · 1795–1802

    Montpelier Parade at Temple Hill, one of the first terraces built in the locality, was completed a few years before 1802 by Mr. Molesworth Green with the aim of making the area residential, then enjoying an uninterrupted sea view.

    Read the passage

    Passing out of Blackrock by the main road, we reach Temple Hill, a little beyond which, on the right, is Montpelier Parade, one of the first terraces built in this locality. An illustration in The Hibernian Magazine represents this place as it appeared in 1802, the terrace having been completed a few years earlier by a Mr. Molesworth Green, with the idea of making this a residential neighbourhood. At the time it- was built, this terrace must have enjoyed an uninterrupted view of the sea, as there were no houses to the south or east of it ; but notwithstanding its attractive situation, it is surprising if any city people lived so far away from town in those days, when we consider the dangers of the road to Dublin owing to highwaymen, as well as the absence of any regular means of communication with the Metropolis.

    In the picture referred to, also appears the tower of old Monkstown Church, taken down in 1832 to make room for the nondescript edifice which now disfigures its site.

    Internet Archive neighborhoodofdu00joyc, Chapter 25

37. Raheen Dhu, a well-preserved rath on Knockannavea

    near Knockannavea · cairn · Dublin

    Raheen Dhu, described as one of the most perfect raths near Dublin, sits on a mountain eminence hidden among heather and gorse; its two concentric rings and central mound remain traceable.

    Read the passage

    After reaching the brow of the hill, a small pond wiU be seen on the left ; about half a mile beyond this pond the track runs beside a rough stone wall with a double line of barbed wire on top ; keep along by this wall vmtil it turns at a sharp angle to the left, and on the summit of the eminence to the right, about a hundred yards away, is Raheen Dhu, one of the most perfect raths to be found in the neighbourhood of Dublin.

    As all this portion of the mountain is covered with heather and gorse, the rath is not easily distinguishable from the rest of the hill, but once located, its two concentric rings and the remains of the central mound can be readily traced.

    Internet Archive neighborhoodofdu00joyc, Chapter 100

38. Rathdown Castle demolished about sixty years before writing

    Rathdown · barony · Wicklow

    The castle ruin, once marked on Ordnance Survey maps, was taken down about sixty years before this account, when it still had massive outer walls 5 to 8 feet high; it was built atop an ancient fort or rath.

    Read the passage

    A short distance north-east of the church, on a slight eminence, and facing the lonely sea-beaten shore, stood the ancient castle of Rathdown that in time gave name to the barony. No portion of the building now remains, and its site is partly occupied by a limekiln, which, as well as the adjoining railway bridge, was probably constructed out of the materials of the walls. The ruin, which is still marked as existent on the Ordnance Survey maps, was taken down some sixty years ago, and at that time consisted of some massive outer walls from 5 to 8 feet in height. The castle was built on an ancient fort or rath, portions of which are yet discernible to the south and east of the site.

    The village of Rathdown stood a short distance to the northwest, and in draining one of the fields there during the last century, the remains of a paved street were discovered. Adjoining the site of the castle is a clear spring well which probably supplied the household with water.

    Internet Archive neighborhoodofdu00joyc, Chapter 47

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through the barony of Rathdown, there is little left of the castle that once gave this whole district its name. It stood on a slight rise facing the sea, until about sixty years ago, when the walls were taken down. At that point it still had massive outer walls standing 5 to 8 feet high, and the Ordnance Survey maps still mark it as existent. A limekiln and a railway bridge nearby were probably built from the stone of those walls. The castle itself had been raised on an older fort or rath, parts of which can still be made out to the south and east. There was once a village of Rathdown a short distance to the north-west, and when a field there was drained in the last century, the remains of a paved street came to light. A clear spring well beside the castle site likely supplied the household with water.

39. Rathdown Union Workhouse at Loughlinstown

    near Loughlinstown · street · Dublin

    An extensive workhouse establishment, the Rathdown Union Workhouse, stood at the far end of Loughlinstown village in a commanding position above the valley.

    Read the passage

    A mile beyond Cornelscourt we enter Cabinteely, in which there is nothing calling for notice ; and in a mile and a half further along a pleasant open road, we reach Loughlinstown, situated in the sheltered valley of the Loughlinstown river. In the middle of the road leading into the village will be seen a fine tree with seats around it, beyond which, to the left is a waste sandy tract along the bed of the river. At the far end of the village, in a commanding position above the valley, is the Rathdown Union Workhouse, an extensive establishment which, with its out-offices and grounds, covers a considerable area.

    LOUGHLINSTOWN 8t

    Internet Archive neighborhoodofdu00joyc, Chapter 43

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere about Loughlinstown stood the Rathdown Union Workhouse, set at the far end of the village in a commanding position above the valley. It was an extensive establishment, and with its out-offices and grounds it covered a considerable area. The village itself sits in the sheltered valley of the Loughlinstown river, with a fine tree and seats in the middle of the road leading in.

40. Rath near Lucan railway station

    near Lucan · town · Dublin

    Not far from the town, on the road to the railway station, stands a hillock surmounted by a well-preserved rath containing several walled chambers, now inaccessible because part of the entrance passage has collapsed.

    Read the passage

    Not far from the town, on the road to the Great Southern and Western Railway Station, is a hillock surmounted by a rath in excellent preservation. In tlxe interior are several walled chambers which were formerly reached by an opening at the top, but are now inaccessible owing to portion of the entrance passage having fallen in.

    I/eaving Lucan by the Esker road up the steep hill, and passing the new cemetery, we presently enter the little village of Esker, more populous in former years, and once possessing a grammar school and a cotton factory. The district of Esker was one of the four ancient Royal manors of the County Dublin, the revenues of which were on occasions applied to the ciefence of the Pale against " the Irish Enemie." Esker means a ridge of sandhills, this place marking the commencement of the great Esker-Riada, a line of low hills which extends almost iininterruptedly to the County Galway, and was fixed upon as the boundary between the North and the South of Ireland in the 2nd century by Owen More and Conn of the Hundred Battles {Irish 'Names oj Places, Vol. I., p. 402).

    Internet Archive neighborhoodofdu00joyc, Chapter 152

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Lucan, not far from the town on the road toward the railway station, there is a hillock topped by a rath in excellent preservation. Inside it are several walled chambers. They were once reached by an opening at the top, but part of the entrance passage has fallen in, and they are now inaccessible.

41. Site of ancient monastery near Enniskerry

    Enniskerry · town · Wicklow

    Between the two roads approaching Enniskerry lies a dark wooded gorge where a small monastery stood in ancient times, its site still remembered in local tradition.

    Read the passage

    Immediately before reaching Enniskerry, the road branches right and left, either way leading into the village. The lefthand road, being the older one, is much steeper than the other, and was the scene of many a serious accident in the old cycling days. Between the two roads is a dark wooded gorge, where a small monastery stood in ancient times, the site of which is still remembered in tradition. Viewed from the heights above it, the little village of Enniskerry presents a very striking appearance, embosomed in its pine woods and situated in a wellsheltered hollow, with the Great Sugar Loaf rising majestically over it.

    From Enniskerry the reader must be left to his own choice as to the route to be pursued homeward, a favourite one being the road to Bray, and thence by the Bray and Stillorgan road to town.

    Internet Archive neighborhoodofdu00joyc, Chapter 81

42. The Tongue at Kimmage divides city water supply

    Kimmage · townland · Dublin

    At Kimmage, a wedge-shaped stone or tongue divided the waters of the watercourse, with two-thirds flowing to the city via Greenmount and one-third diverted to Dolphin's Barn. The site gives its name to a townland and remains a well-known landmark.

    Read the passage

    Mills and on to " The Tongue " at Kimmage. Here the waters are divided by a wedge-shaped stone or tongue, twothirds flowing by the original course to the city via Greenmount, under the Canal to Goodbody's factory and thence to Blackpitts, New Row, Patrick Street, past St. Patrick's Cathedral, turning east at Ross Road, through the Castle and Palace Street to Wellington Quay, where the w^aters

    "The Tongue' at Kimmage

    Internet Archive neighborhoodofdu00joyc, Chapter 196

43. Tradition that Turvey House built from Grace Dieu ruins

    Turvey · townland · Dublin

    There is a local tradition that Turvey House, the seat of the Barnewalls, was constructed from the materials of the demolished Grace Dieu convent, supported by the complete disappearance of the convent's buildings.

    Read the passage

    There is a tradition that Turvey House, the seat of the Barnewalls, was erected out of the materials of Grace Dieu, and the complete disappearance of all the buildings of that great religious establishment would tend to corroborate this story {see " Turvey " in next chapter).

    The site stands on high ground, commanding a distant prospect of the mountains across the city smoke, as Avell as a partial view of Howth.

    Internet Archive neighborhoodofdu00joyc, Chapter 133

44. Ancient burial mounds and cairns on Tallaght and Saggart hills

    near Tallaght Hill · hill or hills · Dublin

    Confirmation of Tallaght's ancient traditions is found in the great number of burial mounds, stone circles, cairns, and other places of sepulture discovered from time to time on the Tallaght and Saggart hills.

    Read the passage

    Some confirmation of these traditions about Tallaght is to be found in the great number of burial mounds, stone circles, cairns, and other ancient places of sepulture which, from time to time, have been discovered on the Tallaght and Saggart hills.

    Tallaght is interesting as having been for a time the country residence of the Protestant Archbishops of Dublin. In 1729 Archbishop Hoadley took down the extensive ruins of the ancient Castle of Tallaght which stood on the site of an earlier monastic establishment, and ^vith the materials built a large episcopal mansion, thus described b)- Austin Cooper, the antiquiry, in 1779 : — " For a thing of the kind it is the poorest " ever I saw. It is a large piece of patchwork, so devoid of

    Internet Archive neighborhoodofdu00joyc, Chapter 96

45. Ancient church ruin in Ballyman glen

    Ballyman · townland · Dublin · 1100–1200

    At the bottom of the secluded glen of Ballyman, near the stream, stands the ruin of a very ancient church probably dating from no later than the 12th century, with only the eastern portion remaining.

    Read the passage

    As we reach the higher portion of the road above Old Connauglit, a stile will be seen on the left, from which a pathway leads down to the secluded glen of Ballyman or Glenmunder watered by a little stream that rises in the Scalp and here forms the boundary between the counties of Dublin and Wicklow. This glen is well wooded, and on portions of its southern slopes may be seen in the springtime such a wonderful profusion of primroses that their pale, delicate tint quite dominates the colouring of the banks on which they grow. At the bottom of the glen, not far from the stream, is the ruin of a very ancient church, dating probably from a period not later than the I2th century. Only the eastern portion of the

    68

    Internet Archive neighborhoodofdu00joyc, Chapter 37

    As the companion tells it

    Close to Ballyman, in a secluded glen watered by a little stream that rises in the Scalp and forms the boundary between Dublin and Wicklow, there is the ruin of a very ancient church. It dates probably from a period not later than the 12th century, and only the eastern portion now remains. The glen is well wooded, and in springtime its southern slopes are covered with primroses.

46. Ancient forest remains found in bogs near Lough Bray

    near Lough Bray · lake or lakes · Wicklow

    At the time of writing, remains of trees composing the ancient Glencree forest were being discovered in the bogs near Lough Bray and on the slopes of the surrounding high hills.

    Read the passage

    At the present day, remains of the tree? which composed this ancient forest are discovered in the bogs near Lough Brav, as well as on the slopes of the high hill? in its neighbourhood. Of course, the Glencree forest only formed a small part of the wide-spreading forests alluded to by Holinshed and Spenser, who tell us that the Wichlow glens were full of great trees on the sides of the hills, and that these forest? v.ere interspersed with goodly valleys fit for fair habitation?.

    378 THE NEIGHBOURHOOD OF DUBLIN

    Internet Archive neighborhoodofdu00joyc, Chapter 161

47. Ball's House and the Origin of Ballsbridge

    near Ballsbridge · townland · Dublin · 1600–1620

    A dwelling called 'Ball's House' stood in the early 17th century on the site now occupied by Ballsbridge Bakery, giving rise to the name Ballsbridge.

    Read the passage

    In An Historical Sketch of the Pe^nbroke Township, published in connection with the Dublin Exhibition of 1907, Dr. F. Elrington Ball states that bridges stood here with the namesof Simmonscourt and Smothe's Court, and that in the beginning of the 17th century there was a dwelling called " Ball's House "' on the site now occupied by Ballsbridge Bakery. This, he considers, is the origin of the name, Ballsbridge.

    The maps of the Down Survey (1650, &c.) show no bridge here, but according to Rocque's Map, about one hundred years

    Internet Archive neighborhoodofdu00joyc, Chapter 18

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere close to Ballsbridge, a dwelling called Ball's House stood in the early 1600s, on the site now occupied by the Ballsbridge Bakery. Dr. Elrington Ball, writing in 1907, considered this house the origin of the name Ballsbridge. He also noted that bridges called Simmonscourt and Smothe's Court once stood here. The Down Survey maps of 1650 show no bridge at this spot, though Rocque's Map, about a hundred years later, does.

48. Cranfield's Baths at Irishtown

    Irishtown · townland · Dublin

    Cranfield's Baths, a well-known institution in the Irishtown neighbourhood for many years, were established by Richard Cranfield, who died at Irishtown in 1859.

    Read the passage

    Cranfield's Baths, for many years a well-known institution in this neighbourhood, were established by Richard Cranlield, who died at Irishtown in 1859.2

    In former times the tract along the sea from Ringsend to Sandymount was known as Scal'd Hill, or Scald Hill. In the middle of the 1 8th century there was a village called " Brick- " field Town " on the site now occupied by Sandymount Green, deriving its name from Lord Merrion's brickfields, which extended along the shore from there to Merrion. A well-known inn called " The Conniving House " then stood where the modern Seafort Avenue West, meets the shore. It was a famous old hostelry, noted for its dinners of fish and its excellent ale, and is referred to as follows in The Life of John Buncle, Esq. [Thomas Amory], Vol. I., p. 87 : — " I set " forward (ist May, 1725), and in five days arrived from the " western extremity of Ireland at a village called Rings-end " that lies on the Bay of Dublin. Three days I rested there, " and at the Conniving House, and then got my horses on " board a ship that was ready to sail, and bound for the land " I was born in, I mean Old England. . . . The Conniving

    Internet Archive neighborhoodofdu00joyc, Chapter 15

49. Dr Rutty's 1772 theory of Dublin's ventilation via Finglas heights

    Finglas · parish · Dublin · 1772

    Dr Rutty, in his Natural History of the County Dublin (1772), used the elevated vantage of Finglas to illustrate how smoke and vapours from Dublin stagnated under the southern mountains while the northern side enjoyed serener air.

    Read the passage

    Referring to this neighbourhood, Dr. Rutty in his Natural History of the County Dublin (1772), page 5, sets forth his views on what he calls the ventilation of the city of Dublin. He explains that it lies in a valley between a lofty range of mountains on the south and a high tableland on the north. This, he states, causes a thorough draught, but he adds that the advantage lies with the north side of the city, where the land rising only to a gentle elevation enables the foul air to escape from that side : — " A gentle breeze from the east is not " sufficient to disperse the smoke and vapours of the city, as " anyone will be convinced who will take a walk to Finglas, " or any more elevated place situated to the north of the city, " in such a state of weather, when he will see a large cloud of

    268 THE NEIGHBOURHOOD OF DUBLIN

    Internet Archive neighborhoodofdu00joyc, Chapter 122

50. Earl of Chesterfield's Phoenix Column

    Phoenix Park · electoral division · Dublin · 1745–1747

    During his viceroyalty, the Earl of Chesterfield ornamentally planted and laid out the Park, constructed the Main Road, and erected the Phoenix column at his own expense between 1745-7.

    Read the passage

    ordered this wild and uncultivated land to be ornamented

    for the pleasure of the citizens. Philip Stanhope, Earl of Chesterfield, Lord Lieutenant,

    Internet Archive neighborhoodofdu00joyc, Chapter 179

    As the companion tells it

    As you travel through Phoenix Park, you are moving through ground that Philip Stanhope, Earl of Chesterfield, ordered to be ornamented

51. Human bones found near Howth railway station

    Howth · townland · Dublin

    Discoveries of human bones, antique weapons and armour have been made from time to time during excavations near the railway station, seen as corroboration of the vague tradition of the battle of Evora.

    Read the passage

    A vague tradition of this battle seems to have lingered inthe neighbourhood, and is to some extent corroborated by the discoveries of human bones, ant-que weapons and armour, which from time to time have been made during excavations for building purposes in the vicinity ot the railway station-

    The most interesting object in the town, from an antiquarian point of view, is the Abbey, situated on the lieights overhanging the harbour, with its burial ground, surrounded by an embattled wall. In the south aisle is the tomb of Christopher, twentieth lord uf Howth, who died in 1589, and of his wife

    Internet Archive neighborhoodofdu00joyc, Chapter 143

52. Loftus's unlawful felling of Drimnagh woods

    Drimnagh Castle · castle · Dublin

    Sir Adam Loftus, nephew of Archbishop Loftus, cut down some of the woods around Drimnagh contrary to his lease covenant, prompting the King's disapproval after a complaint by owner Peter Barnewall.

    Read the passage

    Tn 1 215 Drimnagh with its lands came into possession of the great Anglo-Norman family of Barnewall by a grant from King John, and was held by them for about 200 years, when it was leased to Sir Adam Loftus, nephew of Archbishop Loftus, who built Rathfarnham Castle. It is recorded that Loftus cut down some of the woods around Drimnagh, contrary to the covenant in the lease, and that the King expressed his disapprobation thereat upon complaint being made to him by the owner, Peter Barnewall.

    In 1649, immediately before the Battle of Rathmines, the Marquess of Ormonde was about to occupy and fortify this castle in pursuance of his operations against the ParHamentarians who held the city, but was ultimately dissuaded from the project by his principal oflicers. Leaving Drimnagh and turning back a few paces along the road towards town, we turn to the right along a road, which, in conjunction with that passing through Dolphin's Barn, formed the ancient highway to Tallaght for hundreds of years before the construction, in the early part of last century, of the more direct route, from the southern side, through Terenure and Templcogue. A xrross-roads is presently passed, after which a long ascent commences, and the road at length attains a height of over 200 feet, affording a comprehensive view of the flat country to the north and west. Up to about twenty-liA e

    Internet Archive neighborhoodofdu00joyc, Chapter 94

    As the companion tells it

    Right here at Drimnagh Castle, the woods that once surrounded it became the subject of a royal dispute. The lands of Drimnagh came to the Barnewall family through a grant from King John and were held by them for about 200 years. They were then leased to Sir Adam Loftus, nephew of Archbishop Loftus, the man who built Rathfarnham Castle. Loftus cut down some of the woods around Drimnagh, contrary to the covenant in his lease. The owner, Peter Barnewall, complained to the King, who expressed his disapprobation at what Loftus had done. Later, in 1649, just before the Battle of Rathmines, the Marquess of Ormonde was about to occupy and fortify this castle as part of his operations against the Parliamentarians who held the city, but his principal officers dissuaded him from the plan.

53. Nutgrove School and Rathfarnham Castle dower house

    Nutgrove · site · Limerick · 1802

    The schoolhouse at 'The Ponds', established 1802 as Nutgrove School, was formerly the dower house of Rathfarnham Castle. Its grounds are now used as a flower farm, and a tree in the old playground bears carved names and initials of former scholars.

    Read the passage

    ATHFARNHAM has been selected as the starting point for this excursion on account of the facility with which it can be reached by tram from nearly all parts of the city and suburbs, but Dundrum is a more direct route, and, for those residing near the railway, will be found more convenient. Those who make Dundrum their starting point should \valk thence to Tiknock cross-roads, from which they should follow the route described further on in this chapter. Having reached Rathfarnham, we turn to the left at the end of the village street, passing in succession the neAV Catholic chureh and the dilapidated locality known as "The Ponds," where a large square-framed gateway stood until last year, bearing the inscription " Nutgrove School, Established 1802," and leading into a pretty avenue shaded by a row of tall trees. The schoolhouse was in former times the dower house of Rathfarnham Castle, and its grounds are now utilised as a flower farm. In the old playground is a tree, on the trunk of which are carved the names and initials of many of the former scholars. The road turning to the right at the Ponds, passes the extensive buildings of the Loreto Convent, the central portion of which was a residence of Mr. Grierson, King's printer at the time of the Union. Nearly opposite is the row of dwellings called St. Patrick's Cottages, recently erected by the district council, and forming v/ith the new terrace behind them on the Whitechurch road, a considerable addition to the old village of Willbrook. Beyond this point the road is enclosed between

    walls, and presently ascends past the grounds of " Hermitage "

    Internet Archive neighborhoodofdu00joyc, Chapter 64

54. Oldcourt: ancient farm residence mentioned in old inquisitions

    Oldcourt · townland · Dublin

    Oldcourt is a very ancient farm residence with remains of an old overgrown garden and an extensive quadrangle of out-offices, mentioned in numerous inquisitions and grants for hundreds of years, now falling into decay through being untenanted.

    Read the passage

    Following the devious course of this pretty country lane, in about three-quarters of a mile we reach a disused avenue on the right, opposite to which is the entrance to Oldcourt, a very ancient farm residence, with remains of an old garden, now overgrown and wild, and an extensive quadrangle of outoffices served by a water conduit taken from the adjoining stream. This house, which is mentioned in numerous inquisitions and grants for hundreds of years past, bears evidence of numerous alterations at diiferent periods, but being untenanted, is gradually falling into decay.

    Internet Archive neighborhoodofdu00joyc, Chapter 60

55. Origin of the name Roundtown for Terenure

    Terenure · townland · Dublin

    The village adjoining Rathgar, once called Roundtown after the circle of small cottages near the cross-roads, has in recent years been superseded by its ancient name Terenure.

    Read the passage

    Adjoining Rathgar is the village of Roundtown, the name of which has, in recent years, being almost entirely superseded by " Terenure," the ancient title of the locality. The name *' Roundtown " is of modern date, and evidently originated

    Internet Archive neighborhoodofdu00joyc, Chapter 85

56. Portmarnock's old mill dating back centuries

    Portmarnock · town · Dublin · 1663–1903

    The old mill of Portmarnock, unroofed and dilapidated by the storm of 1903, stood for hundreds of years, with records referencing it as far back as 1663 when it formed part of the Plunkett family property.

    Read the passage

    A short distance beyond the racecourse, the Mayne river flows out on the shore, which is here fringed by a dreary waste of salt marshes, the resort of numerous wild fowl in winter. We next come in view of the old mill of Portmarnock, a \vellknown landmark, unroofed and much dilapidated by the storm of 1903. A mill stood here for hundreds of years past,

    278 THE NEIGHBOURHOOD OF DUBLIN .

    Internet Archive neighborhoodofdu00joyc, Chapter 126

57. Queen Victoria Jubilee monument on Bray Head summit

    near Bray Head · promontory · Wicklow · 1887–1897

    A small monument stands on the summit of Bray Head, erected to commemorate the Jubilee of Queen Victoria.

    Read the passage

    the Sugar Loaves, with the long open valley of Glencree, Not far off is Bray Head summit, on which stands a small monument, erected to commemorate the Jubilee of the late Queen Victoria.

    Continuing the ascent, we arrive at a high ledge, ^vhere we imexpectedly come into view of the entire coast as far as Wicklow Head, readily identified by its three lighthouses, while on the curve of the coastline may be dimly discerned the town of Wicklow. From this point the pathway begins to descend, considerable portions being practicable for cycles, and we presently enter another pine plantation, ultimately reaching the exit on the main road, where the key of the gate can be obtained at the adjoining lodge.

    Internet Archive neighborhoodofdu00joyc, Chapter 46

58. Saggart's blackberry tradition

    Saggart · town · Dublin

    Saggart was at one time famed for its blackberries, giving rise to an old local saying about going to Saggart to pick blackberries.

    Read the passage

    Saggart was at one time famed for its blackberries, and there Avas an old saying current in the district, " To go to Saggart " to pick blackberries."

    228 THE NEIGHBOURHOOD OF DUBLIN

    Internet Archive neighborhoodofdu00joyc, Chapter 108

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Saggart, you are travelling through a town once famed for its blackberries. There was an old saying current in the district: "To go to Saggart to pick blackberries." That saying is what remains of the tradition in the record.

59. St. Brigid's holy well at Castleknock church

    Castleknock · townland · Dublin

    Adjoining the church at Castleknock is a holy well dedicated to St. Brigid, the patron saint of the parish.

    Read the passage

    old tradition avers there is a spring well innocuous to human beings, but poisonous to all the lower animals. No information is now available as to its position, and it remains for some investigator to achieve the fame of its re-discovery by experiment. Adjoining the church is a holy well dedicated to St. Brigid, the patron saint of the parish. A short distance to the north-east of the castle is a vein of lead ore, where a mine was opened in 1744 by a Mr. Edward Ford.

    A mile beyond Castleknock is Blanchardstown, near which the road crosses the Midland Railway and the Royal Canal by a high bridge affording extended views along the grden banks of the Tolka, Three hundred years ago there was a

    Internet Archive neighborhoodofdu00joyc, Chapter 181

    As the companion tells it

    Close to Castleknock, adjoining the church, there is a holy well dedicated to St. Brigid, the patron saint of the parish. An old tradition also speaks of a spring well somewhere in this area that was said to be harmless to human beings but poisonous to all lower animals. Its position is no longer known, and the book says it remains for some investigator to achieve the fame of its re-discovery by experiment.

60. Ruined church at Old Connaught

    near Old Connaught · population centre · Dublin

    In the village of Old Connaught stands the ruin of an ancient church, overgrown with ivy and elder trees, the true name of the locality being Old Conna.

    Read the passage

    LEAVING Bray Station, we walk up the Quinsborough _j Road, cross Bray bridge into Little Bray, and after about half a mile, turn up the road on the left, presently entering the village of Old Connaught, where may be seen the ruin of an ancient church overgrown with ivy and elder trees. The name of the locality is properly Old Conna, but the only instance in which this form has been preserved is the name, Old Conna Hill, a modern residence about three-quarters of a mile to the north of the village.

    Early in the i6th century the lands of Old Connaught came into possession of the Walsh family of Shanganagh, who maintained a residence on the site of the present Old Connaught House until after the Treaty of Limerick, when they finally severed their connection with the locality and went abroad.

    Internet Archive neighborhoodofdu00joyc, Chapter 37

    As the companion tells it

    Up ahead is Old Connaught, a village the road passes through near Dublin. The ruin of an ancient church stands here, overgrown with ivy and elder trees. The true name of the locality is Old Conna, a form preserved only in the name Old Conna Hill, a residence north of the village. In the early 16th century the lands came into the possession of the Walsh family of Shanganagh, who kept a residence here until after the Treaty of Limerick, when they severed their connection with the place and went abroad.