Castles of Ireland: Some Fortress Histories and Legends

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. The Murder of Archbishop John Allen at Artane

   Artaine · parish · Dublin · 1534

   Fleeing Dublin during the 1534 rebellion of 'Silken Thomas,' Archbishop John Allen took refuge at Artane, where Lord Thomas FitzGerald's men dragged him from bed and murdered him despite his pleas for mercy, in the fifty-eighth year of his age.

   Read the passage

   It seems that the “Silken Thomas” was touched by the appeal of his helpless foe, and turning his head aside, he said, “_Beir naim an bodach_,” meaning, “Take the churl away from me,” and, no doubt, as he afterwards said, he only intended them to imprison him. His followers, however, put a different interpretation upon his order, and immediately murdered the Archbishop, who was in the fifty-eighth year of his age.

   Some say he was dragged within the castle hall, and there put to death, while others say that the spot on which he was slain was hedged in and shunned as an unholy place for many years.

   Project Gutenberg #62488

2. King Brian torn apart by wild horses at Bunratty

   Bunratty Castle · castle · Clare

   After Patrick Fitz-Maurice, de Clare's brother-in-law, was slain fighting Torlough O'Brien's invasion, de Clare's wife blamed King Brian, who was dragged from his dinner table at Bunratty, bound to wild horses, and literally torn to pieces, despite an earlier oath of friendship between Brian and de Clare.

   Read the passage

   He was thereupon dragged from the table, bound to wild horses, and literaly torn to pieces. This act of treachery was rendered even more horrible from the fact that he and de Clare had sworn friendship with the most solemn rites.

   Among the State Documents of 1298 is an entry for expenses and wages of horse and foot soldiers in an expedition to relieve Bunratty, which was besieged by Turlough O’Brien. This attack probably took place at an earlier date.

   Project Gutenberg #62488, Chapter 17

3. The Death of Maguire Near Ballyshannon

   Ballyshannon · town · Donegal

   During a gathering of chiefs at Ballyshannon, Shane O'Neill fell for O'Donnell's daughter Helen and followed her and her betrothed Maguire on a riverside walk toward Belleek, where he fatally wounded Maguire in a duel and carried Helen away.

   Read the passage

   One evening the lovers left the castle together, for a stroll by the river side, towards Belleek. Here, while Helen was singing to her harp, O’Neill, who had followed them, broke in upon their happiness. Maguire drew his sword to defend the lady, but he was no match for the great chief from whom he quickly received his death wound. O’Neill placed the fainting form of the fair Helen before him on his horse, and, with a few followers, rode to Dungannon Castle. Her father at once called his forces together, and followed to revenge the injury. The end of the story has several variations, but the most probable seems to be that O’Neill, finding the beautiful girl irreconcilable to the loss of her handsome lover, returned her to her father. The world had, however, lost its charm for her, and the rest of her short life was spent in seclusion.

   In 1597 the first determined attack was made on Ballyshannon. Sir Conyers Clifford, Governor of Connaught, with four thousand men, foot and horse, marched on the stronghold, accompanied by Donough, the son of Connor, Murragh, Baron of Inchiquin, and other Irish nobles. O’Donnell having all the fords guarded, they were obliged to cross the river about half a mile west of Belleek. Here the Baron of Inchiquin was shot through his armour, while his horse was standing in the deep water below the ford, where he was encouraging the soldiers and saving them from drowning.

   Project Gutenberg #62488

   As the companion tells it

   As you pass through Ballyshannon, you're in the town where a gathering of chiefs once turned to tragedy. Shane O'Neill had fallen for O'Donnell's daughter Helen, and one evening he followed her and her betrothed, Maguire, as they walked by the river toward Belleek. While Helen sang to her harp, O'Neill broke in upon them. Maguire drew his sword to defend her, but he was no match for the great chief, and quickly received his death wound. O'Neill placed the fainting Helen before him on his horse and rode to Dungannon Castle. Her father called his forces together and followed to revenge the injury. O'Neill, finding the beautiful girl irreconcilable to the loss of her lover, returned her to her father. The world had lost its charm for her, and the rest of her short life was spent in seclusion. In 1597 the first determined attack was made on Ballyshannon. Sir Conyers Clifford, Governor of Connaught, with 4000 men, foot and horse, marched on the stronghold. O'Donnell had all the fords guarded, so they crossed the river about half a mile west of Belleek. There the Baron of Inchiquin was shot through his armour while his horse stood in deep water below the ford, where he was encouraging the soldiers and saving them from drowning.

4. Cromwell's siege of Kilkenny Castle

   Kilkenny Castle · castle · Kilkenny · 1650

   Oliver Cromwell besieged Kilkenny town and castle in March 1650, opening fire and breaching the walls, though the garrison twice beat off the besiegers before surrendering on honourable terms; Cromwell later remarked he had lost more men there than at Drogheda.

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   Sir Walter Butler had received instructions from Lord Castlehaven to surrender, in case no help arrived before a given time, so considering the weakness of his garrison he made terms with the Parliamentarians which were of an honourable nature. As the garrison marched out Cromwell complimented them on their gallantry, saying he had lost more men in the storming of Kilkenny than in the taking of Drogheda.

   The estate was restored to the Duke upon the Restoration. The Count de Lauzun had been commander for James II. at Kilkenny, and the castle had been carefully preserved by him.

   Project Gutenberg #62488

5. Legend of Prince O'Donoghue's disappearance and lake ghost

   Ross Castle · castle · Kerry

   Legend tells that Prince O'Donoghue of Ross Castle, possessing eternal youth, rose during a feast to give a prophetic oration, then walked through a window and disappeared beneath the waters of the lake. On May mornings he is said to rise from his watery grave and ride over the lake on a white steed with beautiful women and youths.

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   On May morning he is said to rise from his watery grave and ride over the lake on a white steed, surrounded by beautiful women and youths. His appearance is looked upon as a sign of a bountiful harvest.

   It is also related how a young maiden imagining herself in love with the phantom prince, cast herself into the lake on a May morning and was drowned.

   Project Gutenberg #62488, Chapter 70

6. Sir John Norreys dies at Mallow amid devil legend

   Mallow · townland · Cork · 1597

   Sir John Norreys died at Mallow Castle in 1597 of old wounds turned to gangrene. One fable told of his death claims the devil, dressed in black, appeared while he was playing cards and claimed his soul on the spot in fulfilment of an old bargain.

   Read the passage

   Here, in Sir Thomas’s arms, died his brother, the great Sir John Norreys, in 1597, of old wounds which had been neglected and turned to gangrene. One of many fables told regarding his death is that the devil, dressed in black, appeared while he was playing cards, and claimed his soul on the spot in fulfilment of an old bargain.

   During the Tyrone rebellion in 1598-99 Norreys had his English sheep stolen from Mallow, and his park wall broken down, so that the deer roamed loose.

   Project Gutenberg #62488, Chapter 64

7. The Starved Lovers of Doe Castle and the Phantom Skiff

   Doe Castle · electoral division · Donegal

   MacSweeny's daughter Eileen fell in love with Turlogh Oge against her father's wishes; when discovered, her lover and his retainers were captured and starved to death in the castle. Eileen died of grief upon seeing the bodies, and fishermen say the ghosts of the pair still haunt the bay in a phantom skiff.

   Read the passage

   Here he starved them to death, and as the bodies were being carried to the graveyard the fair Eileen saw and recognised her lover. She never recovered the shock and grief, and not long afterwards she was found dead on the top of one of the castle towers.

   Fishermen say that the spirits of the ill-fated pair haunt the bay, and by moonlight a phantom skiff may sometimes be seen skimming the waters containing the two ghostly lovers.

   Project Gutenberg #62488, Chapter 30

   As the companion tells it

   You're nearing Doe Castle in Donegal. MacSweeny's daughter Eileen fell for Turlogh Oge against her father's wishes. He was captured along with his retainers and starved to death in the castle. When the bodies were carried out, Eileen saw her lover and never recovered. She was found dead on top of one of the castle towers. Fishermen say the spirits of the pair still haunt the bay, and by moonlight a phantom skiff may sometimes be seen skimming the waters with the two ghostly lovers.

8. Legend of the Earl's Daughter Hurled from the Battlements

   Greencastle · town · Donegal

   Legend holds that after the Earl discovered his daughter secretly bringing food to her imprisoned lover at Greencastle, he seized her by the hair and hurled her from the battlements onto the rocks below, following the young man's starvation death as his prisoner.

   Read the passage

   The same year this young man was taken prisoner by the girl’s father in his war with the O’Donnells and starved to death at Greencastle. The Earl one day, during his unfortunate victim’s captivity, discovered his daughter carrying food to the prisoner, and seizing her by the hair, dragged her to the battlements and hurled her over on to the rocks below.

   The fortress was for many years in possession of the O’Dohertys.

   Project Gutenberg #62488, Chapter 45

9. Mass beheading of Maynooth Castle garrison

   Maynooth · town · Kildare · 1535

   After Sir William Skeffington's forces took Maynooth Castle by treachery in 1535, twenty-five of the men were beheaded and one hanged outside the castle gate, their heads placed upon the battlements, including that of the Dean of Kildare.

   Read the passage

   Twenty-five of the men were beheaded, and one hanged, outside the castle gate, and the principal heads placed upon the battlements. Amongst these was that of the Dean of Kildare. Paris was paid the sum stipulated for his treachery, but as he had forgotten to make his safety a condition, he was executed with the rest.

   The Lord Deputy left a garrison in the castle and returned to Dublin.

   Project Gutenberg #62488, Chapter 65

   As the companion tells it

   You're passing through Maynooth in Kildare. In 1535, after Sir William Skeffington's forces took Maynooth Castle by treachery, twenty-five of the garrison were beheaded and one was hanged outside the castle gate. Their heads went up on the battlements, among them that of the Dean of Kildare. The Lord Deputy left a garrison in the castle and returned to Dublin.

10. Death of the first Viscount O'Neill from a pike wound at Antrim

    Shane's Castle · townland · Antrim · 1798

    In 1798, during the Battle of Antrim, the first Viscount O'Neill was struck by a pike and mortally wounded. He was carried by boat to Shane's Castle, where he lingered for a fortnight before dying.

    Read the passage

    In 1798 the first Viscount O’Neill, who was then the family representative, rode into Antrim on the day of the battle of that town. He received a mortal wound from a pike in his side, and being conveyed by boat to Shane’s Castle, he lingered for a fortnight. It is supposed that it was at his wife’s instigation that he enlarged the castle demesne and removed the ancient village of Edenduffcarrick.

    A most interesting note from Mrs. Siddon’s diary, mentioning her visit to the castle in 1783, is as follows:--

    Project Gutenberg #62488, Chapter 72

11. Execution of Captain Todd and Massacre at Enniscorthy

    Enniscorthy Castle · castle · Wexford · 1649

    After Royalist supporters got the garrison of Enniscorthy Castle drunk and overpowered them, the Governor Captain Todd, his wife, and the officers were all put to death. Only four soldiers were spared for having betrayed the fortress.

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    The Governor, Captain Todd, and his wife, as well as the officers under him, were all put to death. Only four of the soldiers were spared, they having betrayed the fortress for the sum of £7.

    As soon as Colonel Cooke, the Governor of Wexford, heard of the outrage he marched to Enniscorthy and took the castle by storm, killing every one of the Irish garrison.

    Project Gutenberg #62488, Chapter 38

12. Mutilation of Brian Oge O'Neill Near Ballyshannon

    Ballyshannon · town · Donegal · 1435

    After Brian Oge O'Neill treacherously abandoned his warders at Ballyshannon Castle in 1435, O'Neill took him and his two sons prisoner and had a hand and foot cut from each, a punishment that killed one of the sons.

    Read the passage

    The castle was erected in 1423 by Niall, son of Turlough O’Donnell. In 1435 Naghtan O’Donnell gave it to Brian Oge O’Neill for promising him assistance against the O’Neill. Brian, however, went treacherously to his chief without O’Donnell’s knowledge, leaving his warders in the castle. O’Neill, not approving of such double dealing, took him and his two sons prisoners, cutting off a hand and a foot from each, under which treatment one of the sons died.

    The fortress was taken from O’Donnell’s warders in 1496 by his son Hugh. His brother Con, with the assistance of Maguire, laid siege to the castle and dislodged him. O’Neill possessed himself of the stronghold in 1522, and slew the warders. It seems to have remained in his possession until Sir Henry Sidney came north in 1566 and had it delivered to him, as well as the castles of Donegal, Beleek, Bundrowes, and Castle Sligo. All these fortresses he placed in the hands of O’Donnell and his allies, who were at this time in high favour with England.

    Project Gutenberg #62488

    As the companion tells it

    Coming through Ballyshannon now. Niall, son of Turlough O'Donnell, built a castle here in 1423. In 1435 Naghtan O'Donnell gave it to Brian Oge O'Neill for promising assistance against the O'Neill. Brian went treacherously to his chief without O'Donnell's knowledge, leaving his warders in the castle. O'Neill, "not approving of such double dealing," took him and his two sons prisoner and cut off a hand and a foot from each. One of the sons died under that treatment. The castle changed hands several times after that. Hugh O'Donnell took it from his father's warders in 1496, and his brother Con, with Maguire's help, laid siege and dislodged him. O'Neill possessed himself of the stronghold in 1522 and slew the warders. It remained in his possession until Sir Henry Sidney came north in 1566 and had it delivered to him, along with the castles of Donegal, Beleek, Bundrowes, and Castle Sligo. He placed all these fortresses in the hands of O'Donnell and his allies, who were in high favour with England.

13. Roger Mortimer, Earl of March, killed by the Irish near Trim

    Trim · town · Meath · 1398

    Roger, Earl of March, who had held Trim Castle, was killed by the Irish in 1398, prompting Richard II to land in Ireland the following year to avenge his cousin's death.

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    Roger, Earl of March, was killed by the Irish in 1398, and the next year Richard II. landed at Waterford to avenge his cousin’s death, with Humphrey, son of the Duke of Gloucester and Henry (afterwards Henry V.), son of the Duke of Lancaster. The boys he brought with him as hostages, and upon returning to England he left them as prisoners in Trim Castle. A very small steel spur, inlaid with silver, was found in the castle yard in 1836, which may have belonged to one of the princes.

    In 1400 Henry IV. appointed a custodian to the late Earl of March’s records at Trim and elsewhere. At this time the castle was in his hands owing to the minority of the heir.

    Project Gutenberg #62488, Chapter 76

    As the companion tells it

    As you come through Trim, this is where Roger Mortimer, Earl of March, held the castle before the Irish killed him in 1398. His death brought Richard II to Ireland the next year, landing at Waterford to avenge his cousin. Richard brought two boys with him as hostages — Humphrey, son of the Duke of Gloucester, and Henry, afterwards Henry V, son of the Duke of Lancaster — and left them as prisoners in Trim Castle. A small steel spur inlaid with silver was found in the castle yard in 1836, which may have belonged to one of the princes. In 1400 Henry IV appointed a custodian to the late Earl's records at Trim and elsewhere, the castle being in his hands owing to the minority of the heir.

14. Ruse capture of Carlingford Castle in 1642

    Carlingford · town · Louth · 1642

    In 1642 Carlingford town and castle were captured by a ruse in which a ship flying Spanish colours lured rebel commanders aboard, seized them below decks, and landed musketeers who took the town while its defenders fled.

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    The next year it was captured by a ruse graphically described as follows: “5th of May. Newes came from Dundalk to the Lords Justices by Captaine Cadogan (who came thence through Maday with ten horse-men only) that the Newry was not only retaken by the Lord Conway and Munroe, the Scots commander, from the rebels, but also that the towne and castle of Carlingford were taken by a ship that came from Knockfergus. Their policy was to put up the Spanish colours, which the rebels discerning, sent a fisher-boat, with ten or twelve of their commanders, to goe aboard the ship, supposing that some ammunition was come unto them; but the captaine of the ships, instead of shewing them any such commodities, clapt them up under decks, and so landing his musketiers, they took the towne, which they of the castle soone perceiving, fled away, and left both unto our forces.”

    In 1648 Lord Inchiquin marched on Carlingford after capturing Dundalk, and seems to have had little difficulty in getting possession of the town and fortress. The following year Colonel Venables appeared before the walls with Parliamentary forces. Upon his making preparation for the landing of cannon the town and castles were surrendered. In a letter to Oliver Cromwell he speaks with great praise of Captain Ferns, who “came to the harbour’s mouth with his fregot, and upon a signal agreed between us, came gallantly in under fire,” although his mainmast was split by a shot from the castle. He captured a small Wexford vessel then in the bay.

    Project Gutenberg #62488

15. Sir John of Desmond killed and beheaded near Castlelyons

    Cork · city · Cork · 1584

    At the time of the Desmond forfeiture, Sir John of Desmond was overtaken near Castlelyons and killed by a former servant of his own. His body was hung over one of the gates of Cork for some years, and his head sent to Dublin Castle.

    Read the passage

    At this time it was in the hands of Sir John of Desmond, the Earl’s son, who was overtaken near Castlelyons and killed by a former servant of his own. His body was hung over one of the gates of Cork for some years, and his head sent to Dublin Castle.

    The following description of the stronghold is taken from an inquisition held at this time on the Manor of Mallow:--

    Project Gutenberg #62488, Chapter 64

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Cork, you are near the gates where Sir John of Desmond's body once hung. In 1584, during the Desmond forfeiture, he was overtaken near Castlelyons and killed by a former servant of his own. His body was hung over one of the gates of Cork for some years, and his head was sent to Dublin Castle.

16. Spanish Armada ships wrecked on Streedagh Strand

    Streedagh · townland · Sligo · 1588

    In 1588 three ships belonging to the Spanish Armada were wrecked on Streedagh Strand, from which Captain Cuellar escaped with his life and later found refuge with the MacClancy clan at Rossclogher Castle.

    Read the passage

    In 1588 three ships belonging to the Spanish Armada were wrecked on Streedagh Strand.

    In one of these was Captain Cuellar, whose graphic narrative of his adventures in Ireland, when he had escaped with his life from the sea, have been published of recent years.

    Project Gutenberg #62488, Chapter 71

17. Starvation and death during the 1641-42 siege of Tralee

    Tralee · townland · Kerry · 1641–1642

    During the siege of Tralee's two castles, roughly four hundred people crowded inside the strongholds; food meant to last two years ran out in seven months and water failed. Of the six hundred within the castles, three hundred died, reduced to eating bran, tallow and raw hides.

    Read the passage

    Of the six hundred within the castles of Tralee three hundred died during the siege. They were reduced to eating bran, tallow, and raw hides.

    The castles were burnt upon being surrendered.

    Project Gutenberg #62488, Chapter 75

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere around here, two castles were besieged in 1641 and 1642. Six hundred people were within the castles, and three hundred died during the siege. They were reduced to eating bran, tallow, and raw hides. The castles were burnt upon being surrendered.

18. Walter de Burgo Starved to Death at Greencastle

    Greencastle · town · Donegal · 1332

    William de Burgo, the 'Dun Earl,' took prisoner Walter, son of Sir Walter de Burgo, and starved him to death in Greencastle. A mark discovered on a pillar in the dungeon by Sir Arthur Chichester's excavation is thought to have held the ring to which the prisoner was chained.

    Read the passage

    In 1332 William de Burgo, or the “Dun Earl,” owned the fortress, which he had inherited from his father, and having taken prisoner Walter, son of Sir Walter de Burgo, he starved him to death in the castle. Sir Arthur Chichester excavated one of the pillars of the dungeon in which it is supposed he was confined, and a mark was discovered that most likely had held a ring to which the prisoner was chained. The “dreary and dismal” prisons are still to be seen.

    The Dun Earl was stabbed to death the next year in revenge for the murder.

    Project Gutenberg #62488, Chapter 45

19. Betrayal and Drowning at Adare Castle

    Adare · townland · Limerick · 1580

    During Desmond's 1580 campaign to recover Adare Castle, he sent a beautiful young woman to seduce the constable into betraying the fortress. On learning her origin, the officer had her killed by drowning in the river.

    Read the passage

    Desmond made every effort to recover the castle in 1580. He resorted to several stratagems, one of which was to send a beautiful young woman to the constable, by whose means he hoped the castle might be betrayed. But upon hearing from whence she came, the officer tied a stone round her neck and threw her into the river.

    The following year, however, Colonel Zouch, having disbanded part of his forces, the Earl gained possession of the castle, and put the garrison to the sword. Fresh forces arriving from Cork, Zouch marched on Adare, only to find it deserted; but he pursued the Irish to Lisconnel, where he defeated them in an engagement.

    Project Gutenberg #62488, Chapter 3

20. The headless coach and banshee of the Denny family at Tralee

    Tralee · townland · Kerry

    A phantom black coach with headless horses and a headless coachman was said to drive through Tralee whenever a member of the Denny family died; anyone who looked at it had a basin of blood thrown in his face. In later years a banshee reportedly took the place of this apparition.

    Read the passage

    A black coach, with headless horses and coachman, was formerly said to drive through Tralee upon the death of one of the Denny family, and if any one looked out at it, a basin of blood was thrown in his face. Of later years a banshee is said to have taken its place.

    Project Gutenberg #62488, Chapter 75

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere around here, a black coach with headless horses and a headless coachman was said to drive through Tralee whenever a member of the Denny family died. If anyone looked out at it, a basin of blood was thrown in their face. In later years, a banshee was said to have taken the coach's place.

21. The Murderous Trapdoor of Catherien de Clare

    Ferns Castle · castle · Wexford · 1569

    Tradition tells that Catherien de Clare, wife of the constable of Ferns Castle, decoyed neighbouring chiefs and Irish gentlemen into the fortress under the pretense of hospitality, then murdered them by pushing them through a trapdoor.

    Read the passage

    Thrilling traditions are related regarding his wife, Catherien de Clare, who was said to decoy the neighbouring chiefs and Irish gentlemen within the fortress under the guise of hospitality and murder them by pushing them down a trapdoor.

    In 1588 Masterson entered a petition for land, as recompense for thirty-four years’ service.

    Project Gutenberg #62488, Chapter 40

22. Bishop Leverus Shelters at Adare After Rescuing Smallpox-Stricken Heir

    Adare · townland · Limerick · 1570

    In 1570 the Bishop of Kildare, Leverus, sought shelter at Adare Castle with the Earl of Desmond after a price had been placed on his head. He had earlier saved his pupil, the young heir to the Earldom of Kildare, who was suffering from smallpox, by smuggling him away hidden in a basket.

    Read the passage

    Here in 1570 the celebrated Leverus, Bishop of Kildare, sought shelter with the Earl of Desmond. He had been tutor to the young heir to the Earldom of Kildare, when a price was set upon his head after the rebellion of the Lord Thomas. Leverus had saved his pupil, who was ill with smallpox, by putting him in a basket, wrapped in blankets, and taking him from Kildare to Thomond.

    In 1578 the castle was taken by Sir Nicholas Malby after a siege of eleven days, and garrisoned by English under Captain Carew.

    Project Gutenberg #62488, Chapter 3

23. Christopher Paris executed despite his treachery

    Maynooth · town · Kildare · 1535

    Christopher Paris, the foster-brother of Lord Offaly who betrayed Maynooth Castle for payment, was executed along with the rest of the garrison after the castle fell, having forgotten to secure his own safety as a condition of the bargain.

    Read the passage

    Twenty-five of the men were beheaded, and one hanged, outside the castle gate, and the principal heads placed upon the battlements. Amongst these was that of the Dean of Kildare. Paris was paid the sum stipulated for his treachery, but as he had forgotten to make his safety a condition, he was executed with the rest.

    The Lord Deputy left a garrison in the castle and returned to Dublin.

    Project Gutenberg #62488, Chapter 65

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Maynooth, this is where Maynooth Castle stood in 1535. Christopher Paris, foster-brother of Lord Offaly, betrayed the castle for payment but forgot to make his own safety part of the bargain. When the castle fell, 25 men were beheaded and one hanged outside the gate, their heads placed on the battlements. Paris was paid his money, then executed with the rest.

24. Deception and Killing of Warders During O'Doherty's Rebellion

    Doe Castle · electoral division · Donegal · 1608

    In 1608 a cowherd and a friar deceived the warders of Doe Castle with a false tale of wolves attacking cattle, luring six men out of the stronghold where they were killed, allowing the castle to be seized for the rebels.

    Read the passage

    The following year (1608) Doe was again lost to the English in the rebellion of Sir Cahir O’Doherty. It was in charge of a man named Vaughan and six warders, when a cowherd and a friar arriving with the tale that a body of wolves had set upon the cattle, they easily managed to draw six of them from the stronghold, who were at once killed, and the castle seized and garrisoned for the enemy.

    A party was organised to retake it, and in the encounter with the rebels Sir Cahir was killed.

    Project Gutenberg #62488, Chapter 30

    As the companion tells it

    Up here in Doe Castle, in 1608, the stronghold was lost to the English during Sir Cahir O'Doherty's rebellion. A man named Vaughan had charge, with six warders. A cowherd and a friar arrived with a tale that wolves had set upon the cattle. The ruse drew six men from the stronghold, and they were killed at once. The castle was seized and garrisoned for the enemy. A party was organised to retake it, and in the encounter with the rebels Sir Cahir was killed.

25. Executed thieves' heads displayed on Trim Castle wall

    Trim · town · Meath · 1465

    A Parliament held at Trim in 1465 enacted that anyone caught robbing in Meath could be killed, and their heads were to be sent to the Portreeve of Trim to be displayed upon the castle wall. Several skulls have since been found in the castle moat.

    Read the passage

    A Parliament held at Trim in 1465 enacted that any one discovered robbing might be killed, and in Meath their heads were to be sent to the Portreffe of the town of Trim, to be put on the castle wall. Several skulls have been found in the moat.

    In 1495 an Act of Parliament passed at Drogheda provided that only Englishmen should be constables of Trim and the other principal castles.

    Project Gutenberg #62488, Chapter 76

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Trim, the castle here was once a grim showcase. A Parliament held at Trim in 1465 enacted that anyone caught robbing in Meath could be killed, and their heads were to be sent to the Portreeve of Trim to be put on the castle wall. Several skulls have since been found in the castle moat.

26. Lord Galmoy's Treacherous Hanging of Prisoners at Crom

    Crom Castle · castle · Fermanagh · 1689

    During the 1689 siege of Crom Castle, Lord Galmoy agreed to a prisoner exchange but instead had Captain Dixey and a cornet named Charleton hanged. Captain MacGuire, disgusted by the treachery, returned to the castle and abandoned James's army.

    Read the passage

    At this time a Captain MacGuire was prisoner at Crum, and Lord Galmoy proposed to Colonel Creichton to exchange Captain Dixey for him. This was agreed to, but when MacGuire was sent, Lord Galmoy, instead of returning Dixey, had him hanged with a cornet named Charleton.

    Captain MacGuire was so disgusted with the treachery that he returned to Crum and threw up his commission in James’s army.

    Project Gutenberg #62488, Chapter 29

27. Hugh O'Donnell's Amputation After Escape to Ballyshannon

    Ballyshannon · town · Donegal · 1592

    After his escape from Dublin Castle and gruelling journey over the mountains in bitter cold, Red Hugh O'Donnell returned to Ballyshannon for medical treatment, where both his great toes had to be amputated due to his injuries.

    Read the passage

    After a most successful campaign against the marauders, Hugh O’Donnell returned to Ballyshannon to undergo medical treatment for his feet, which had been fearfully injured by travelling from Dublin to Glenmalure in his house-shoes over the mountains and in bitter cold. He did not recover entirely until the end of the year, as both his great toes had to be amputated.

    In 1594 Sir Ralph Lane, writing to Burghley, mentions that Hugh Roe O’Donnell would have broken down Ballyshannon but that his mother dissuaded him from it, assuring him that it might be defended with his own forces. Yet this very year it was evidently in the hands of the O’Donnells, and remained so until its capture in 1602.

    Project Gutenberg #62488

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Ballyshannon, this is where Red Hugh O'Donnell came for medical treatment in 1592, after escaping Dublin Castle. He had travelled over the mountains to Glenmalure in house-shoes, in bitter cold, and his feet were fearfully injured. Both his great toes had to be amputated here, and he did not recover entirely until the end of the year. The town remained in O'Donnell hands until its capture in 1602.

28. Kidnapping of gentlewomen at Carlingford, 1596

    Carlingford · town · Louth · 1596

    In 1596 the Earl of Tyrone's forces under his son-in-law Henry Oge attempted to surprise King John's Castle at Carlingford; failing to take the castle, they carried off two daughters of Captain Henshaw as prisoners, one married and one unmarried.

    Read the passage

    In 1596 the Earl of Tyrone, after having pretended to submit to the Government, made an incursion into the Pale. It seems that his foremost troops were commanded by his son-in-law, Henry Oge, who endeavoured to surprise the castle at Carlingford. This he was unable to accomplish, but, “missing of his principal purpose, there were carried away as prisoners, in lamentable manner, two gentlewomen, daughters of Captain Henshaw, the one married and the other a maid.”

    The Earl, who was following, had intended to reinforce the troops after the seizing of the town and fortress, but the failure of the enterprise prevented his doing so. He acknowledged having carried off the ladies from the castle “in time of peace,” and refused to return them until O’Hanlon’s son was liberated in exchange.

    Project Gutenberg #62488

29. Kidnapping of Red Hugh O'Donnell at Rathmullen

    Rathmullan · town · Donegal · 1588

    Red Hugh O'Donnell lived at Doe Castle under the care of his foster father Owen Oge MacSweeny, and it was while under this protection that he was treacherously kidnapped at Rathmullen by Sir John Perrott in 1588.

    Read the passage

    Red Hugh O’Donnell lived at Doe Castle with his foster father, Owen Oge MacSweeny, and it was while in his care that he was kidnapped at Rathmullen by Sir John Perrott in 1588.

    Sir Hugh MacSwine na Oge, surnamed the Red, was one of Queen Elizabeth’s chief favourites, and a polished courtier. Very different, however, was the last of the MacSwines who occupied Doe Castle. This was Sir Miles MacSweeny of the Club, who was knighted by Oueen Elizabeth, and about whom tales of great brutality are recorded.

    Project Gutenberg #62488, Chapter 30

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Rathmullan in Donegal, you are near the spot where Red Hugh O'Donnell was kidnapped in 1588. He had been living at Doe Castle under the care of his foster father, Owen Oge MacSweeny. Sir John Perrott was behind the seizure. The MacSwines who held Doe Castle were a varied line. Sir Hugh MacSwine na Oge was a favourite of Queen Elizabeth and a polished courtier. The last of them, Sir Miles MacSweeny of the Club, was knighted by the Queen, but tales of great brutality are recorded about him.

30. Chief O'Flanagan dies in collapse at Roscommon Castle

    Roscommon · town · Roscommon · 1582

    Captain Brabazon, Governor of Connaught, summoned a meeting of chiefs in Roscommon Castle in 1582, held in the 'Tower of the Narrow Passages.' The joistings gave way and the whole meeting was precipitated to the bottom, and Chief O'Flanagan died from the fall.

    Read the passage

    Captain Brabazon, Governor of Connaught, summoned a meeting of the chiefs in the castle in 1582. It was held in the “Tower of the Narrow Passages,” and the joistings giving way the whole meeting, including the Governor, was precipitated to the bottom. Chief O’Flanagan died from the fall.

    After this the English constable was murdered, and Sir Henry Sydney left a garrison in the castle.

    Project Gutenberg #62488, Chapter 69

31. Cromwellian Officer Present at Execution of Charles I

    Drimnagh Castle · castle · Dublin · 1649

    Colonel Nicholas Walker, a Cromwellian officer who lived at Drimnagh Castle after the Restoration, was said to have been present on the scaffold at the execution of Charles I with his face covered by a vizor.

    Read the passage

    Colonel Nicholas Walker, a Cromwellian officer, lived in the castle after the Restoration. It was said that he was present on the scaffold at the execution of Charles I. with his face covered by a vizor. The Hearth Money Returns of 1664 state that Drimnagh was occupied by “Lt.-Col. -----,” and had three “smooks” or chimneys.

    In 1841 the fortress was the property of the Marquis of Lansdowne. It was one of the castles of the Pale, and the scene of Mr. R. D. Joyce’s romance entitled “The Rose of Drimnagh” is laid there.

    Project Gutenberg #62488, Chapter 31

    As the companion tells it

    Drimnagh Castle stands right here beside the road. After the Restoration, Colonel Nicholas Walker, a Cromwellian officer, lived in the castle. He was said to have been present on the scaffold at the execution of Charles I in 1649, his face covered by a vizor. The Hearth Money Returns of 1664 record Drimnagh occupied by a lieutenant colonel with three chimneys. By 1841 the fortress belonged to the Marquis of Lansdowne. It was one of the castles of the Pale, and the setting of R. D. Joyce's romance "The Rose of Drimnagh.".

32. Curse of the O'Neills tied to a mysterious figure-head

    Shane's Castle · townland · Antrim

    A curious ancient figure-head stands in the wall of Shane's Castle, said by some to be of Eastern origin and older than the ruins around it. Tradition holds that when this figure falls, the O'Neill family will come to an end.

    Read the passage

    some to have been brought from the East and to belong to a much earlier date than the ruins among which it stands. Tradition states that when it falls the family of O’Neill will come to an end.

    It is recorded that in 1490 Edan-dubh-Cairrge, the castle of Niale, the son of Con, son of Hugh Boy, was taken and demolished by Felim, grandson of Niale Boy. It is probable that the present ruins are the remains of a castle which was erected in the sixteenth century upon the site of an older fortress, though the exact date of building is uncertain.

    Project Gutenberg #62488, Chapter 72

33. Death of the 8th Earl of Kildare near Kilkea

    Kilkea · parish · Kildare · 1513

    Gerald FitzGerald, 8th Earl of Kildare, was shot by an O'More while watering his horse at the River Greese near Kilkea, and died of the wound a few days later at Kildare.

    Read the passage

    Returning with a splendid company he was shot by an O’More while watering his horse at the River Greese, near Kilkea, and he died a few days later at Kildare.

    Three years afterwards his son attacked Leap, and took the stronghold, of which it is recorded, “there was scarcely any castle at that period better fortified and defended than this, until it was demolished upon its warders.”

    Project Gutenberg #62488, Chapter 57

34. Richard de Clare killed at Battle of Dysert O'Dea, 1318

    Bunratty Castle · castle · Clare · 1318

    De Clare and his son Thomas were killed in 1318 at the Battle of Dysert O'Dea. On hearing of the disaster, Lady Johan de Clare set fire to Bunratty Castle and sailed for England.

    Read the passage

    De Clare and his son Thomas were killed in 1318 in the battle of Dysert O’Dea, and upon his wife, Lady Johan de Clare, hearing of the disaster, she set fire to the castle and sailed for England.

    The following year it was spoiled by King Mortogh.

    Project Gutenberg #62488, Chapter 17

35. Sharpshooter Kills the Governor of Ferns Castle

    Ferns Castle · castle · Wexford

    During Lord Grey's siege of Ferns Castle, a gunner was hidden to watch a spot where the garrison's governor and chief gunner periodically appeared on watch; he was shot dead as soon as he returned to that position.

    Read the passage

    Lord Grey marched by night, and arrived in the morning before the fortress. He demanded its surrender, which was refused by the garrison, “using very spiteful language.” The day was spent in preparing for the attack. He posted his men round the building in the ditches and other cover, so that none of the besieged should escape, and the troops broke down the gate leading to the drawbridge. A Mr. Thomas Allen, who was with the attacking party, noticed that one of the garrison kept watch every now and then from one particular place, and he sent a gunner to hide himself where he could cover the spot with his weapon. This was successful, and the man was shot as soon as he returned. He was the governor and chief gunner of the castle.

    The rest of the garrison then asked for a parley, which was granted.

    Project Gutenberg #62488, Chapter 40

36. Battle with the Danes at Howth

    Howth · townland · Dublin · 1177

    Sir Amoricus Tristram led the Norman forces in a fierce battle against the Danes at Howth in 1177 while De Courcy remained ill on board ship. Amoricus lost seven blood relations in the fighting before the enemy was completely defeated.

    Read the passage

    After a great battle, in which Sir Amoricus lost seven blood relations, the enemy were completely defeated at the bridge of the Evora, and the lands of Howth were granted to the victor as a reward of prowess.

    He then accompanied Sir John de Courcy to Down, where he also gained possessions and did great deeds of valour. A story is told that after the first battle in the north Sir Amoricus was found leaning on his shield under a hedge, bleeding from three large wounds, and having sustained himself by eating the wild roses and honeysuckle which grew within his reach. His life was despaired of for nine days, but he eventually recovered, and lived to die heroically among a group of outnumbered infantry, having slain his horse so that he could not save himself by flight.

    Project Gutenberg #62488, Chapter 47

37. Colonel Cooke's Retaliatory Massacre

    Enniscorthy Castle · castle · Wexford · 1649

    After the killing of Captain Todd, Colonel Cooke, Governor of Wexford, marched to Enniscorthy and took the castle by storm, killing every one of the Irish garrison in retaliation.

    Read the passage

    As soon as Colonel Cooke, the Governor of Wexford, heard of the outrage he marched to Enniscorthy and took the castle by storm, killing every one of the Irish garrison.

    The first Earl of Portsmouth repaired the building and leased it to Adam Colclough in 1745.

    Project Gutenberg #62488, Chapter 38

38. Death of Colonel Adams during the 1646 siege of Bunratty

    Bunratty Castle · castle · Clare · 1646

    During the Confederate siege of Bunratty, cannon were directed at a small outlying castle, and after two days of firing Colonel Adams went to inspect it. A chance shot at an upper window mortally wounded him, and he died that night.

    Read the passage

    Two pieces of cannon were then directed upon a small outlying castle, and at the end of two days’ firing Colonel Adams repaired to the place to see if it could be held any longer. A chance shot at the upper window mortally wounded him, and being carried out he died that night.

    When Muskerry heard this he decided to attack in force, “knowing how much discouraged they were at the loss of so valiant a person.”

    Project Gutenberg #62488, Chapter 17

39. Death of Lord Richard Tuit During Athlone Castle's Construction

    near Athlone and Bigmeadow · townland · Roscommon · 1210–1213

    While the Norman fortress at Athlone was being built between 1210 and 1213 by John de Grey, Bishop of Norwich, a tower under construction collapsed and killed Lord Richard Tuit, founder of the Cistercian Abbey of Granard.

    Read the passage

    Between 1210 and 1213 the Norman fortress was erected by John de Grey, Bishop of Norwich, in his capacity of Lord Justiciary of Ireland. During its building a tower fell and killed Lord Richard Tuit, who founded the Cistercian Abbey of Granard, County Longford.

    Athlone Castle was built on abbey land, and in 1214 King John commanded Henry, Archbishop of Dublin, to give the monks a tenth of the expenses of the castle in lieu of the land used, in accordance with the conditions agreed to by the Bishop of Norwich when he was fortifying it. After this there are several references in the State Documents to the tithes and other compensation due to the monks.

    Project Gutenberg #62488

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere close to Athlone and Bigmeadow, the Norman fortress was raised between 1210 and 1213 by John de Grey, Bishop of Norwich, in his role as Lord Justiciary of Ireland. During the building, a tower collapsed and killed Lord Richard Tuit, who had founded the Cistercian Abbey of Granard in County Longford. The castle went up on abbey land, and in 1214 King John commanded Henry, Archbishop of Dublin, to give the monks a tenth of the castle's expenses in lieu of the land used, as the Bishop of Norwich had agreed when fortifying it. State documents afterwards carried several references to the tithes and other compensation owed to the monks.

40. Maiden drowns pursuing the phantom prince at Ross Castle

    Ross Castle · castle · Kerry

    A young maiden, imagining herself in love with the phantom Prince O'Donoghue, cast herself into the lake at Ross Castle on a May morning and was drowned.

    Read the passage

    It is also related how a young maiden imagining herself in love with the phantom prince, cast herself into the lake on a May morning and was drowned.

    The O’Donoghues were succeeded at Ross by the M’Carthy Mores, through whom the castle passed in 1588 to Sir Valentine Browne, ancestor to the present house of Kenmare.

    Project Gutenberg #62488, Chapter 70

41. Massacre of the Garrison at Arklow Castle, 1641

    Arklow · town · Wicklow · 1641–1649

    During the 1641 rebellion the Irish surprised Arklow Castle and killed its garrison, holding the fortress until it was recaptured by Cromwell's forces in 1649.

    Read the passage

    In the rebellion of 1641 the Irish surprised the fortress and killed the garrison. It remained in their possession until 1649, when it was captured by Cromwell’s forces, of which the following is the account:--

    “The army marched through almost a desolate country until it came to a passage of the River Doro, about a mile above the Castle of Arklow, which was the first seat and honour of the Marquis of Ormond’s family, which he had strongly fortified; but it was upon the approach of the army quitted, wherein he (Cromwell) left another company of foot.”

    Project Gutenberg #62488

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Arklow, this was the site of a castle held by the Marquis of Ormond's family. In the rebellion of 1641, the Irish surprised the fortress and killed its garrison, holding it until 1649 when Cromwell's forces marched through nearly desolate country to retake it. The castle was strongly fortified but was quitted on the army's approach, and Cromwell left another company of foot to hold it.

42. Treacherous killing after the Battle of Knockninoss

    Lohort Castle · castle · Cork · 1647

    Sir Alexander MacDonald, who commanded the Highlanders at the battle of Knockninoss in 1647, was treacherously killed by a soldier after the encounter; his sword was long preserved in the armoury at Lohort Castle.

    Read the passage

    The castle also contained a good library. In the armoury was preserved the sword of Sir Alex. MacDonald, who commanded the Highlanders at the battle of Knockninoss in 1647, and was treacherously killed by a soldier after the encounter.

    The fortress dates from the reign of King John, and was a former stronghold of the MacCarthys.

    Project Gutenberg #62488

43. Fire Destroys Crom Castle

    Crom Castle · castle · Fermanagh · 1764

    Crom Castle was destroyed by fire in 1764 despite having withstood two sieges in the previous century. A letter from Lord Shannon lamented the irony of its destruction by accidental sparks after surviving heavy bombardment.

    Read the passage

    A letter from Lord Shannon, dated September 1, 1764, is still in the family’s possession, in which he condoles with his kinsman for the destruction of his castle. “Unhappy indeed to be consumed by a few accidental sparks of fire when it had so bravely withstood the firing of 6,000 men so many years ago.”

    To the south of the fortress along the side of the lake lay the castle gardens, in the centre of which still grows a magnificent yew-tree, under which tradition records an O’Neill and his lady-love parted in the reign of Oueen Elizabeth upon the former being attainted for high treason.

    Project Gutenberg #62488, Chapter 29

44. Gallows Hill: the Archbishop's place of execution at Swords

    Swords · town · Dublin

    The archbishops of Dublin, who held near-royal jurisdiction over Swords manor, had their own gallows erected on an eminence near the town, ever after known as Gallows Hill. They could try every case except the four pleas of the Crown.

    Read the passage

    The great prelates seem to have lived in almost royal state within their manor of Swords. They had their own seneschal, who was exempt from the authority of the sheriff of the county, and the law courts. The archbishops could try every case except the four pleas of the Crown, and their gallows was erected near the town on an eminence since known as Gallows Hill. Every writ issued from the civil courts had to be transferred to the prelates’ seneschal before it could be served.

    The office of chief constable of the palace was a post of considerable importance, and survived the occupation of the castle for a considerable time. William Galrote held the position in 1220, Sampson de Crumba in 1240, and Thomas Fitzsimons in 1547.

    Project Gutenberg #62488, Chapter 73

45. Garrison hanged after O'Neill's assault on Maynooth

    Maynooth · town · Kildare · 1647

    In 1647, General Owen O'Neill sent a detachment from Trim which carried Maynooth Castle by assault. Twenty-six men of the garrison and some officers were hanged, and the fortress dismantled.

    Read the passage

    In 1647 General Owen O’Neill sent a detachment from Trim, which carried the castle by assault. Twenty-six men of the garrison and some officers were hanged, and the fortress dismantled.

    The next Earl lived chiefly at Kilkea Castle, and Maynooth gradually fell into decay.

    Project Gutenberg #62488, Chapter 65

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Maynooth in Kildare, you are near the site of a castle that fell in 1647. General Owen O'Neill sent a detachment from Trim, which carried Maynooth Castle by assault. Twenty-six men of the garrison and some officers were hanged, and the fortress was dismantled. The next Earl lived chiefly at Kilkea Castle, and Maynooth gradually fell into decay.

46. Hanging of 1798 Rebels at Dundrum Castle Barbican

    Dundrum Castle · street · Dublin · 1798

    The two ruined towers protecting the barbican gate of Dundrum Castle were used as gallows from which numerous rebels were hanged during the rebellion of 1798.

    Read the passage

    South-east of the donjon, in the line of wall, are the two ruined towers which protected the barbican gate, the corbel blocks of which still remain over the archway, and originally supported the defences of the gateway. From these, numerous rebels were hanged in the rebellion of 1798.

    The castle was built of stone quarried to form the fosse, mixed with land stones of the district. Little has been done to alter the twelfth or thirteenth century architecture, except the opening out of windows. On the side of the ruined manor the outer fortifications would seem to have been levelled to make terraced gardens to the later dwelling.

    Project Gutenberg #62488, Chapter 34

47. Storm-drowned king gives Carrickfergus its name

    Carrickfergus · townland · Antrim

    Popular legend holds that Carrickfergus derived its name from a king called Fergus who was lost in a storm around 320 B.C. and whose body washed up on the rocky peninsula where the castle stands.

    Read the passage

    It is popularly believed that Carrickfergus derived its name from a king called Fergus having been lost there in a storm about 320 B.C., whose body was washed up on the rocky peninsular where the castle stands. The name is, however, more likely to be a corruption of _Carraig na Fairge_, signifying “rock of the sea.” It is often erroneously called Knockfergus in ancient documents. The town is situated on the northern shore of Belfast Lough, about ten miles distant from that city.

    The castle occupies the whole of a tongue of rock at the south end of the town, which was at one time surrounded on three sides by water.

    Project Gutenberg #62488, Chapter 19

48. Cursed well at Dunamase claims lives of friends

    Park or Dunamase · townland · Laois

    The old well into which Roderick threw his brother's body is still shown near Dunamase, and local tradition holds that if two friends visit it together, one of them will die within the year.

    Read the passage

    The old well is still shown, and if two friends visit it together one is said to die within the year.

    There seems to be no historical record of the fortress ever having been in possession of the O’Byrnes.

    Project Gutenberg #62488, Chapter 56

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere around here, the old well at Dunamase is still pointed out. The local tradition says that if two friends visit it together, one of them will die within the year. The well itself is all that remains of the story.

49. Death of Sir Charles Coote in a sally from Trim

    Trim · town · Meath

    Sir Charles Coote, who had taken Trim Castle for the Cromwellian forces, lost his life during a sally made from the town of Trim.

    Read the passage

    It is stated that the yellow steeple near having been treacherously delivered into the hands of the Cromwellians, was used as a vantage point to make the castle untenable, and that afterwards when the Governor of the castle was reinstated he had one side of the tower blown up. It was in a sally from the town of Trim that Sir Charles Coote lost his life.

    It is reported Cromwell-spent one night in the castle, but there is no evidence that this is the case.

    Project Gutenberg #62488, Chapter 76

    As the companion tells it

    You're coming into Trim in County Meath. Sir Charles Coote had taken Trim Castle for the Cromwellian forces, but he lost his life in a sally from the town itself. The yellow steeple nearby was treacherously delivered into the hands of the Cromwellians and used as a vantage point to make the castle untenable. After the governor was reinstated, he had one side of the tower blown up. It is reported that Cromwell spent one night in the castle, but there is no evidence that this is the case.

50. Death of Sir Thomas Harris during the siege of Tralee

    Tralee · townland · Kerry · 1642

    Sir Thomas Harris, who commanded the Tralee garrisons during the 1641-42 siege, fell ill and died after about six months, brought on by drinking bad water and the strain of the siege.

    Read the passage

    When the siege had lasted about six months Sir Thomas Harris fell ill and died through bad water and anxiety.

    Immediately after the provisions giving out the garrisons capitulated, the terms being their lives and a suit of clothes each. Most of them joined Colonel Crosbie in Ballingarry fortress on an island in the Shannon.

    Project Gutenberg #62488, Chapter 75

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere close to Tralee, Sir Thomas Harris commanded the garrisons in the 1642 siege. After about six months he fell ill and died from bad water and anxiety. When provisions ran out, the garrisons capitulated on terms of their lives and a suit of clothes each. Most then joined Colonel Crosbie at Ballingarry fortress, an island in the Shannon.

51. Fall of Lohort Castle to Sir Hardress Waller

    Lohort Castle · castle · Cork · 1641–1650

    Irish forces seized Lohort Castle by treachery in 1641 and held it until May 1650, when Sir Hardress Waller reduced the stronghold with a battery of cannon, describing it as a place of great strength.

    Read the passage

    In 1641 Sir Philip Perceval garrisoned it with a hundred and fifty men during the rebellion. Nevertheless the Irish gained possession of the stronghold by treachery, and held it until May, 1650, when Sir Hardress Waller reduced it with a battery of cannon.

    In his letter to the Parliament he writes of it as a place of great strength.

    Project Gutenberg #62488

52. MacDermots Slain Before the Walls of Ballymote

    Ballymote · town · Sligo · 1561

    In 1561 the MacDermots laid siege to Ballymote Castle, and during the fighting both Cathal and Owen MacDermot were killed before its walls.

    Read the passage

    The MacDermots laid siege to the castle in 1561, and Cathal and Owen MacDermot were both slain before the walls. Five years later the castle was taken by the English and Hugh and Comac MacDonough imprisoned. Almost immediately, however, the fortress was surprised by Tomaltach and Duagal MacDonough.

    Sir Richard Bingham recovered Ballymote in 1584 and placed his brother George in charge with seven warders, while he also carried off MacDonough as hostage. At this time sixteen quarters of the best land were set aside for the castle’s maintenance, which seems to have given rise to a great deal of jealousy regarding its custody. The year after its capture Sir Richard applied to be made constable, with a lease of the fortress for sixty years.

    Project Gutenberg #62488

53. Revenge Killing of the Dun Earl

    Greencastle · town · Donegal · 1333

    In revenge for the starvation murder of Walter de Burgo, the Dun Earl himself was stabbed to death the following year, a cycle of vengeance connected to the dungeons of Greencastle.

    Read the passage

    The Dun Earl was stabbed to death the next year in revenge for the murder.

    The following legend is told regarding Walter de Burgo’s death. The Earl had a beautiful daughter who one day, in

    Project Gutenberg #62488, Chapter 45

54. Roscommon Castle burned by fugitive Irish after Aughrim

    Roscommon · town · Roscommon · 1691

    Tradition states Roscommon Castle was burned by fugitive Irish soldiers fleeing after the Battle of Aughrim, and some blackened joists are still pointed out in corroboration of the story.

    Read the passage

    It is probable that it was demolished at this time. Tradition states it was burned by fugitive Irish after the battle of Aughrim, and some blackened joists are pointed out in corroboration.

    It is now leased to a farmer by the Earl of Essex.

    Project Gutenberg #62488, Chapter 69

55. Death of General Harte at Doe Castle

    Doe Castle · electoral division · Donegal

    General Harte, who had served at the battle of Seringapatam, met a sad death by falling down the stairway leading to the tower of Doe Castle. His devoted Indian servant did not long survive him.

    Read the passage

    He did not long survive his master, the General meeting with a sad death by falling down the stairway leading to the tower.

    Cannon captured at Seringapatam were mounted on the lawn of the castle.

    Project Gutenberg #62488, Chapter 30

    As the companion tells it

    Around Doe Castle in Donegal, General Harte met a sad death by falling down the stairway leading to the tower. He had served at the battle of Seringapatam, and cannon captured there were mounted on the castle lawn. His devoted Indian servant did not long survive him.

56. English constable murdered at Roscommon Castle

    Roscommon · town · Roscommon

    After the disastrous meeting in the Tower of the Narrow Passages, the English constable of Roscommon Castle was murdered, prompting Sir Henry Sydney to leave a garrison there.

    Read the passage

    After this the English constable was murdered, and Sir Henry Sydney left a garrison in the castle.

    Sir Nicholas Malbie died in 1584, and the castle remained in his family’s possession for some years afterwards. In 1609 Lady Sydley, widow of Henry Malby, Esq., asked allowance for the repairs of the castles of Roscommon and Longford, both of which she rented from the Crown. Roscommon had been ruined by various garrisons which had been placed there by Sir John Norris and others.

    Project Gutenberg #62488, Chapter 69

57. Unlawful Imprisonment of Prior Magennis at Dundrum

    Dundrum Castle · street · Dublin · 1551

    In 1551 the Privy Council recorded that Prior Magennis was seized and imprisoned at Dundrum Castle by Roger Broke without any order of law.

    Read the passage

    After this the castle appears to have remained in the hands of the Crown for a few years. In 1551, we learn from the records of the Privy Council that Prior Magennis was seized and imprisoned in Dundrum Castle by Roger Broke without order of law. Six years later Lord Deputy Sussex asked that Lecale with the Castle of Dundrum might be granted to him in fee-farm for ever.

    But again in 1565 it was occupied by the great Shane O’Neill, who placed his own ward in it for defence, and the Magennises (with whom O’Neill was intimately connected) were in possession of the stronghold in 1601, when Phelim Magennis surrendered it to Lord Mountjoy.

    Project Gutenberg #62488, Chapter 34

58. Death of Donogh MacMorrough near Carlow

    Enniscorthy Castle · castle · Wexford · 1375

    Donogh MacMorrough, King of Leinster, resided in Enniscorthy Castle before being slain near Carlow by Geoffrey Wall in 1375. His death marked a shift in control of the castle to Art MacMurrough two years later.

    Read the passage

    Donogh MacMorrough, King of Leinster, resided in the castle from 1368 to 1375, in which year he was slain near Carlow by Geoffrey Wall. Two years later Art MacMurrough, King of Leinster, recovered the castle, and held it until his death in 1418.

    Donald Kavanagh, King of Leinster, lived in state in the castle from 1428 to 1476, and he it was who founded the Franciscan monastery close to the stronghold in 1460.

    Project Gutenberg #62488, Chapter 38

59. Death of Edmund, Earl of March, at Trim Castle

    Trim · town · Meath · 1425

    Edmund, Earl of March, died at Trim Castle in 1425 while serving as Lord Deputy of Ireland.

    Read the passage

    Four years later Richard Talbot, Archbishop of Dublin, resided in the fortress, and in 1425 Edmund, Earl of March, died there while Lord Deputy.

    But, perhaps, the most palmy days of Trim Castle were in 1449, when Richard, Duke of York, came to Ireland as Lord Lieutenant, and held his court there.

    Project Gutenberg #62488, Chapter 76

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Trim, the castle here saw the death of Edmund, Earl of March, in 1425 while he was Lord Deputy of Ireland. Four years earlier Richard Talbot, Archbishop of Dublin, had resided in the fortress. Its grander days came later, in 1449, when Richard, Duke of York, arrived as Lord Lieutenant and held his court there.

60. Death of the Earl of Desmond at Adare

    Adare · townland · Limerick · 1583

    The castle of Adare remained in the possession of the Earl of Desmond, with intermissions, until his death in 1583, after which it reverted to the Kildare branch of the Geraldines. His name still clings to the ruins due to the stormy events of his ownership.

    Read the passage

    The castle remained in the Earl of Desmond’s possession (with intermissions) until his death in 1583, when it reverted to the Kildare branch of the Geraldines. His name still clings to the ruins, no doubt because of the stormy scenes that occurred at Adare during his short ownership.

    Here in 1570 the celebrated Leverus, Bishop of Kildare, sought shelter with the Earl of Desmond. He had been tutor to the young heir to the Earldom of Kildare, when a price was set upon his head after the rebellion of the Lord Thomas. Leverus had saved his pupil, who was ill with smallpox, by putting him in a basket, wrapped in blankets, and taking him from Kildare to Thomond.

    Project Gutenberg #62488, Chapter 3