Name: A pictorial and descriptive guide to Dublin and the Wicklow tours ..
Author: Lock and Company Ward, ltd

Battle of the Boyne fought near Drogheda

Oldbridge · townland · Meath · 1690

The Battle of the Boyne was fought about three miles west of Drogheda on the banks of the river, with James's army posted on Donore Hill and William's forces encamped on Tullyesker Hill after reaching the Boyne on 30 June 1690.

Read the passage

After the failure of the siege of Derry, James resolved to stake his kingdom on a pitched battle at Drogheda. His army of 25,000 men, many of them raw levies, was posted on Donore Hill, on the south bank, in front of which the river forms a triangle. William, with a well-trained force of about 36,000 men, reached the north side of the Boyne on June 30, 1690, and encamped on Tullyesker Hill, opposite the army of James. Early in the morning he rode down the beautiful King William's Glen to reconnoitre and breakfast. While so engaged he was struck on the shoulder by a ball fired by James' scouts, and the news spread that he was killed. The wound, however, was but a scratch. " The place where this incident occurred is a little below the glen and near the obelisk," says Mr. W. St. Joyce, who gives a spirited and detailed account of the engagement in his Ireland's Battles. On the next morning the attack was made ; 10,000 of William's men were sent to cross the river at Slane, some distance up the stream ; another force, under Schomberg, crossed at Oldbridge ; a third, between the two islands below the bridge ; and the fourth, under William, to the east of Tullyesker Hill. Both sides fought well, but the Jacobite artillery was greatly outnumbered, and the undisciplined infantry were seized with panic, though the cavalry displayed great gallantry. After several attempts, William's party, the Orangemen, forced a passage, but lost Schomberg in so doing. Towards evening the Irish wings were driven back upon their centre, Dunmore Hill. At length, losing hope, they beat a retreat, which was skilfully and coolly effected, there being little or no pursuit. James had taken to flight as soon as he found things going against him. So ended the famous Battle of the Boyne, which virtually established William on the throne, while giving a fatal blow to the Jacobite fortunes. In all, about 1,500 men were slain. The battlefield is now a pretty and peaceful spot.

Internet Archive pictorialdescrip19ward, Chapter 50

As the companion tells it

Somewhere around here, the Battle of the Boyne was fought in 1690, about three miles west of Drogheda on the banks of the river. James had resolved to stake his kingdom on a pitched battle after the failure of the siege of Derry. His army of 25,000 men, many of them raw levies, was posted on Donore Hill on the south bank, where the river forms a triangle in front of it. William reached the north side of the Boyne on June 30, 1690, with a well-trained force of about 36,000 men, and encamped on Tullyesker Hill, opposite James's army. Early in the morning William rode down King William's Glen to reconnoitre and breakfast. While so engaged he was struck on the shoulder by a ball fired by James's scouts, and the news spread that he was killed. The wound was only a scratch. On the next morning the attack was made. 10,000 of William's men were sent to cross the river at Slane, some distance up the stream. Another force under Schomberg crossed at Oldbridge. A third crossed between the two islands below the bridge, and a fourth under William went to the east of Tullyesker Hill. Both sides fought well, but the Jacobite artillery was greatly outnumbered, and the undisciplined infantry were seized with panic, though the cavalry displayed great gallantry. After several attempts William's men forced a passage, but lost Schomberg in so doing. Towards evening the Irish wings were driven back upon their centre at Dunmore Hill. At length, losing hope, they beat a retreat, which was skilfully and coolly effected, with little or no pursuit. James had taken to flight as soon as he found things going against him. About 1,500 men were slain in all. The battle virtually established William on the throne and gave a fatal blow to the Jacobite fortunes.

Cromwell's massacre at Drogheda

Drogheda · town · Louth · 1649

Cromwell landed in Dublin with thirteen thousand men and marched on Drogheda, then held by a Royalist garrison; after his surrender demand was refused he breached the walls with artillery, stormed the town, and put nearly every man of the garrison and many inhabitants to the sword.

Read the passage

The name Drogheda means " the bridge of the ford." Since the beginning of the tenth century, when it was one of the principal strongholds of the Danes, it has had more than its share of warfare. It was a frequent battle-ground during the wars between the Irish and the barons of the Pale, and has been taken and retaken times without number. It was at Drogheda that the notorious Poynings Act, making the Irish Parliament a mere " Registration Court " of laws passed in England, was framed at the end of the fifteenth century by Lord-Deputy Poynings. The deepest tinge to its crimsoned page was given by Cromwell, who, having landed in Dublin with thirteen thousand men, proceeded straight to Drogheda, then garrisoned by the Royalist army, and summoned it to surrender. Having received a defiant answer, he forthwith battered its walls with his heavy artillery till breaches appeared, carried the town by a tremendous assault, and put nearly every man of the garrison, and many of the inhabitants, to the sword. Of the strong walls of the abbey and the convent which he levelled only fragments remain. Besides these fragments, St. Lawrence's Gate and a part of St. Mary's Abbey still exist, in ruins.
Drogheda, which occupies both of the river banks, would be in the counties of Meath and Louth were it not that Henry IV raised it and the surrounding district into a separate county, which has its separate assize court and other privileges, with the exception of representation in the House ; but this has since been modified by the Local Government Act of 1898.

Internet Archive pictorialdescrip19ward, Chapter 50

As the companion tells it

As you come through Drogheda, you are passing through a town whose name means "the bridge of the ford," fought over since the 10th century when it was a Danish stronghold and taken and retaken countless times in the wars between the Irish and the barons of the Pale. But what happened here in 1649 left the deepest mark. Cromwell landed in Dublin with 13,000 men and marched straight to Drogheda, where a Royalist garrison held the town, and summoned it to surrender. When he got a defiant answer, he battered the walls with heavy artillery until breaches appeared, then carried the town by a tremendous assault and put nearly every man of the garrison and many of the inhabitants to the sword. He levelled the walls of the abbey and the convent, of which only fragments remain, though St. Lawrence's Gate and part of St. Mary's Abbey still stand in ruins. The town sits on both banks of the river, and it was here too, in the 15th century, that Lord-Deputy Poynings framed the act that made the Irish Parliament a mere registration court for laws passed in England.

Grace O'Malley's abduction of the Howth heir

Howth · townland · Dublin · 1575

In 1575 Grace O'Malley, returning from paying homage to Queen Elizabeth, landed at Howth and was refused hospitality when the castle gates were shut during dinner. Enraged, she seized the young heir of the family and carried him off to her fortress in Clew Bay until the family agreed the gates would never again be shut at dinner-hour.

Read the passage

heartily shaking the hand extended to be kissed. Returning to Ireland, she landed at Howth, and proceeded to the castle to enjoy the usual national hospitality, but the family being at dinner the gates were closed. Enraged at what she considered a breach of Irish hospitality, she waited her opportunity and presently seized the young heir of the family, whom she carried off to her fortress in Clew Bay ; nor was he restored until his father entered into an express stipulation that his gates should never again be shut at the dinner-hour, and it is a fact that until a somewhat recent date this custom was strictly observed. Near the Castle is a venerable old tree with but few branches left, and these carefully propped and chained. The tradition is that whenever a branch falls a member of the family dies.
When the azaleas and the rhododendrons, a most varied and lovely collection, are in blossom, flowering over the steep cliffs, the gardens are a marvellous sight. In the demesne is the great Howth Cromlech, consisting of ten enormous masses of quartz.

Internet Archive pictorialdescrip19ward, Chapter 46

Lord Edward Fitzgerald captured in Thomas Street

Thomas Street · street · Dublin · 1798

Fitzgerald died of wounds inflicted during his capture in Thomas Street, Dublin, ending his part in the rebellion of '98. The house where he was captured is marked by a commemorative slab, and his remains lie in a vault of St Werburgh's Cathedral.

Read the passage

Many fine public buildings and residential thoroughfares were now commenced in Dublin, her port was improved, and docks made, during the seventeen years of partial " Home Rule," and an era of real prosperity seemed setting in. Lord Fitz-William came to Ireland in 1795, empowered to promise Catholic emancipation, but he was suddenly recalled, and all hope was at an end. The United Irishmen, led by Wolfe Tone, Lord Edward Fitzgerald, Napper Tandy, and the Sheares brothers, determined on rebellion. Secret preparations were made, and these coming to the ears of the English Government, the Habeas Corpus Act was suspended and martial law proclaimed in five counties. The vilest of outrages were committed by the soldiers, and the brutalities that were inflicted in the Castle Yard on suspects gained it the name of the " Devil's Half-acre." Sir Ralph Abercromby reported that " every cruelty that could be committed by Cossacks or Calmucks has been committed here." Wolfe Tone was captured on a French ship and sentenced to be hung, from which fate he was saved only by suicide. Fitzgerald had already died of the wounds inflicted during his capture in Thomas Street, Dublin, and so the rebellion of '98 came to an end. The house in which Fitzgerald was captured is marked by a slab on the front wall, bearing an inscription ; his remains and those of other members of his family are preserved in huge coffins in a vault of St. Werburgh's Cathedral, near Christ Church, which can be inspected. In 1898 the centenary of the Rebellion was celebrated.
Paralysed by the blow, little opposition was offered to Pitt's determination to effect a Legislative Union ; Catholics were promised the desired emancipation, and in 1800 the Union was declared and the Irish House of Parliament abolished.

Internet Archive pictorialdescrip19ward, Chapter 21

As the companion tells it

Along this street in Dublin, Lord Edward Fitzgerald was captured in 1798. He died of the wounds inflicted during that capture, and with his death his part in the rebellion of '98 came to an end. The rebellion had its roots in a broken promise. Lord Fitz-William came to Ireland in 1795, empowered to promise Catholic emancipation, but he was suddenly recalled, and all hope was at an end. The United Irishmen, led by Wolfe Tone, Lord Edward Fitzgerald, Napper Tandy, and the Sheares brothers, determined on rebellion. Secret preparations were made, and these coming to the ears of the English Government, the Habeas Corpus Act was suspended and martial law proclaimed in five counties. The vilest of outrages were committed by the soldiers, and the brutalities inflicted in the Castle Yard on suspects gained it the name of the "Devil's Half-acre." Sir Ralph Abercromby reported that "every cruelty that could be committed by Cossacks or Calmucks has been committed here." Wolfe Tone was captured on a French ship and sentenced to be hanged, from which fate he was saved only by suicide. Fitzgerald had already died of the wounds inflicted during his capture on this street, and so the rebellion of '98 came to an end. The house in which Fitzgerald was captured is marked by a slab on the front wall, bearing an inscription. His remains and those of other members of his family are preserved in huge coffins in a vault of St. Werburgh's Cathedral, near Christ Church, which can be inspected. In 1898 the centenary of the Rebellion was celebrated.

Assassination of Thomas Burke in Phoenix Park

Phoenix Park · electoral division · Dublin · 1882

Under-Secretary Thomas Burke was murdered on May 6, 1882, by the Irish Invincibles, who escaped through the Chapelizod Gate. Lord Frederick Cavendish's wife requested no permanent memorial be erected at the spot.

Read the passage

grass the murder of the Under-Secretary, Thomas Burke, on May 6, 1882, by the band of cowardly assassins who called themselves the Irish Invincibles. In the dusk of the evening Earl Spencer, looking through the windows of the Lodge, observed a scuffle going on, and sent his secretary to inquire into the matter, but before he could reach the spot the fiendish work was done, and Brady, Kelly, Delaney, and Caffrey, driven by Kavanagh, had escaped through the Chapelizod Gate, and thence by way of the Tallaght Road and Terenure got safely back to Dublin, It is by Lady Frederick Cavendish's express wish that no permanent memorial has been erected to mark the tragic deed. The culprits were all eventually brought to justice.
Opening from the main avenue on the left, near the Phoenix Pillar, are the entrances to the Chief Secretary's and the Under Secretary's Lodges. Some distance from the further end of the Park is the Dunsink Observatory, with the residence of the Astronomer Royal of Ireland. The Observatory was built in 1785, and endowed by Dr. Andrews, Provost of Trinity College. Certain clocks in DubUn are controlled by the Observatory clock. The Observatory is open on the ■first Saturday of each month from 7.30 to 9.30 in winter.

Internet Archive pictorialdescrip19ward, Chapter 38

As the companion tells it

As you travel through Phoenix Park in Dublin, you are passing the ground where Under-Secretary Thomas Burke was murdered on May 6, 1882, by a group who called themselves the Irish Invincibles. Earl Spencer saw a scuffle from the windows of the Lodge in the dusk of the evening and sent his secretary to find out what was happening, but before the secretary could reach the spot the killing was done. Brady, Kelly, Delaney, and Caffrey, with Kavanagh driving them, escaped through the Chapelizod Gate, then by way of the Tallaght Road and Terenure got safely back to Dublin. It was by Lady Frederick Cavendish's express wish that no permanent memorial was erected to mark the killing. The culprits were all eventually brought to justice. The main avenue leads past entrances to the Chief Secretary's and the Under Secretary's Lodges near the Phoenix Pillar. Further into the park stands the Dunsink Observatory, built in 1785 and endowed by Dr. Andrews, Provost of Trinity College. Certain clocks in Dublin are controlled by the Observatory clock.

Kilmainham Gaol imprisons Parnell and Land League leaders

Kilmainham · townland · Dublin · 1881–1882

Kilmainham Gaol was notable as the place of confinement of Parnell and other leading members of the Land League under the 1881 Coercion Act; the following year the Phoenix Park murderers were housed there and five were hanged on an improvised gallows.

Read the passage

Kilmainham Gaol (now closed) was notable as the place of confinement of Parnell and other leading members of the Land League under the 1881 Coercion Act. It is enclosed by a lofty wall of grey stone. Many of the prisoners were confined in the spacious central haU, though Parnell had a separate room. The next year the Phoenix Park murderers were housed here, and here, on an improvised gallows, five of them suffered the extreme penalty of the law. The Sarah Bridge, or Island Bridge, over the Liffey, was erected in 1 79 1. It derives its name from Sarah, Countess of Westmoreland, who laid the first stone.

Internet Archive pictorialdescrip19ward, Chapter 44

Silken Thomas's rebellion and the fall of Maynooth Castle

Maynooth · town · Kildare · 1534–1537

The grandson of the Earl of Kildare declared war against Henry VIII, cannonaded English ships from Howth Hill, and garrisoned Maynooth Castle; artillery broke the fortress and many defenders were hanged, giving rise to the phrase 'the Pardon of Maynooth' meaning the gallows.

Read the passage

dines lorded it over the greater part of Munster, but the " position of the Geraldines of Kildare was even more important," says the Hon. Emily Lawless in her Story of the [Irish Nation, " on account of their close proximity to Dublin. In later times their great keep at Maynooth dominated the whole Pale, while their followers swarmed everywhere, each man with a G embroidered upon his breast in token of his allegiance." From 1480 to 151 3 Gerald the eighth earl, called Geroit Mor, or the Great, was to all intents and purposes King of Ireland. Indeed, when summoned to London to answer a charge of conspiracy, the other barons swore that " all Ireland could not govern the Earl of Kildare." " Then let the Earl of Kildare govern all Ireland," replied Henry. The king advised him, however, to get a good counsel. " By St. Bride," said the earl, " I know well the fellow I would have ; yea, and the best in England, too ! " " Who is he ? " said the king. " Marry, the king himself," laughed the bold earl. Kildare was reinstated as deputy , his son succeeded him, and the grandson also ; but with the latter's reign came the downfall, for, his father having been placed in prison, the hot-headed youth formally declared war against the King, then Henry VIII, cannonaded the English ships from Howth Hill, and garrisoned his castle at Maynooth. Artillery soon, however, broke the hitherto invulnerable fortress, and the defenders surrendered. Many of them were hung in a row, and hence in after years, " the Pardon of Maynooth," meant the gallows. The Earl, called " Silken Thomas," because the fringes of his followers' helmets were of that material, surrendered shortly after, and a year or two later was hanged at Tyburn with five of his uncles.
The castle grounds are now laid out as pleasure gardens, and trees adorn the slopes of the old fosse.

Internet Archive pictorialdescrip19ward, Chapter 39

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Maynooth, you are moving past a town whose castle once dominated the whole Pale. The Geraldines of Kildare held this place, and their followers swarmed everywhere, each man with a G embroidered upon his breast in token of his allegiance. Their great keep at Maynooth dominated the whole Pale, so close to Dublin that their power touched the English administration directly. Gerald the eighth earl, called Geroit Mor, the Great, was to all intents and purposes King of Ireland. When summoned to London to answer a charge of conspiracy, the other barons swore that all Ireland could not govern the Earl of Kildare. Then let the Earl of Kildare govern all Ireland, replied Henry. The king advised him to get good counsel. By St. Bride, said the earl, I know well the fellow I would have, the best in England too. Who is he, said the king. Marry, the king himself, laughed the bold earl. Kildare was reinstated as deputy, his son succeeded him, and the grandson also. But with the grandson's reign came the downfall. His father having been placed in prison, the hot-headed youth formally declared war against the King, then Henry VIII, cannonaded the English ships from Howth Hill, and garrisoned his castle at Maynooth. Artillery soon broke the hitherto invulnerable fortress, and the defenders surrendered. Many of them were hung in a row, and hence in after years, the Pardon of Maynooth meant the gallows. The Earl, called Silken Thomas because the fringes of his followers' helmets were of that material, surrendered shortly after, and a year or two later was hanged at Tyburn with five of his uncles. The castle grounds are now laid out as pleasure gardens, and trees adorn the slopes of the old fosse.

Newgrange passage tomb rifled by the Danes

Newgrange · townland · Meath

Newgrange's great sepulchral mound, with a long stone passage leading to a chamber, is thought to be the burial place of ancient Celtic chieftains; its graves were rifled by the Danes and are of unknown antiquity, with elaborate spiral carvings on the stones.

Read the passage

Newgrange, famous for its large sepulchral mound, with a passage of great stones forty-eight feet long and four feet high leading into a stone-roofed chamber. Newgrange is specially worth visiting, and can be seen en route to Melhfont. These tumuli were probably the burial-places of old Celtic chieftains ages ago, and may be explored : a caretaker in charge provides lights. The graves, which were rifled by the Danes, are of unknown antiquity. An immense stone outside with beautiful spiral carvings has lately been unearthed. The stones at the entrance and some of those inside are inscribed with elaborate spirals and other ornamentation, and around Newgrange part of a stone circle still remains. There is a circular hermit's cave below the mound. Knowth Mound, not yet opened, is beyond Newgrange.
These remains of primitive man are perhaps the most important, from an archaeological point of view, in Ireland, and are probably the oldest Celtic monuments in the world, The connection of Ireland with the Mediterranean so far back as the Bronze Age, to which these chambered tumuli belong, appears clearly established. To preserve the dead, their bodies were entombed as in the Stone Age, but to free the spirit, bodies were cremated, as in the Bronze Age. These tumuli are homes for the dead resembling the beehive dwellings of the living at that period, and are stiU to be found among primitive races. The spiral and other ornamentations are similar to those found in use in Egypt at a very early period, and subsequently in Greece, and probably reached Ireland through Scandinavia ; from Ireland they were transmitted to Brittany ; this, at least, is the conclusion arrived at by the latest research.

Internet Archive pictorialdescrip19ward, Chapter 51

Cromwell's landing and slaughter in Dublin

Dublin · city · Dublin · 1649

Cromwell landed in Dublin with fifteen thousand men and committed slaughter wholesale, prompting all Ireland to lay down arms. The aftermath included confiscation of eight million acres and eviction of every Catholic landowner to Connaught.

Read the passage

Later Cromwell gathered an army, promising payment in land. With fifteen thousand men he landed in Dublin, and committed slaughter wholesale. The effect was immediate. All Ireland laid down her arms, and the grim horrors were concluded by the confiscation of eight million acres ^ and the eviction of every Catholic landowner, young and old, sick and hale, and their transportation to Connaught, in many parts of which there was not " water enough to drown a man, trees enough to hang a man, or earth enough to bury a man." 2 The wives and families of those who surrendered and had been allowed to enter foreign service were sold in thousands to West Indian slave-dealers.
With James II 's accession matters took a new turn, but then the Revolution came. The Catholics declared for James, the Protestants for William. Once again Ireland was a battlefield. The consequences everyone knows. The Pro-

Internet Archive pictorialdescrip19ward, Chapter 20

As the companion tells it

Dublin is where Cromwell came ashore in 1649. He had gathered an army, promising payment in land, and landed here with 15000 men. What followed was slaughter wholesale. The effect was immediate. All Ireland laid down her arms. The grim aftermath brought the confiscation of 8 million acres and the eviction of every Catholic landowner, young and old, sick and hale, transported to Connaught, where in many parts there was not water enough to drown a man, trees enough to hang a man, or earth enough to bury a man. The wives and families of those who had surrendered and been allowed to enter foreign service were sold in thousands to West Indian slave-dealers. With James the Second's accession matters took a new turn, but then the Revolution came. The Catholics declared for James, the Protestants for William, and once again Ireland was a battlefield.

Feagh O'Byrne holds Glenmalure and defeats Lord Grey

near Glenmalur · valley · Wicklow · 1580

In the recesses of Glenmalure Pass, Feagh O'Byrne maintained a strong position for years. Lord Grey, sent with a large force to subdue him, met with a disastrous defeat in the glen when the Irish charged down upon his army when it was about half-way through, almost annihilating it.

Read the passage

Here the wild, stern, magnificent Glenmalure Pass, one of the grandest in the country, commences, and runs upwards to the right for four or five miles into the recesses of the mountains, where Feagh O'Byrne maintained for 5^ears a strong position. Lord Grey, who was sent with a large force to subdue him, met with a disastrous defeat in this glen, the Irish charging down upon him when he was about half-way through, and almost annihilating his army. " It was the hottest piece of service that ever I saw," wrote one of the survivors. In the '98 troubles a body of troopers were surprised and slain in the glen also. The Pass has wooded hillsides here and there, and tumbling cascades ; further on the hills are barren. At the head of the Pass is the Ess Waterfall. Lugdufl lies to the right, and the giant Lugnaquilla (3,039 ft.) overlooks the Pass on the left. The ascent of the latter is usually commenced at Drumgoff, and takes three hours. From the highest point five counties are said to be visible. There is a good military road from Glenmalure across the hills right on to Aughavanagh, from which Aughrim (p. 149) can be reached. The beautiful Glen of Imaal lies on the far side of Lugnaquilla. Cyclists may note that this is a stiff road, uphill nearly all the way.
On the way back from Glenmalure a sharp turn to the right leads to the beautiful demesne of Ballinacor, through which visitors are kindly allowed to drive. The river Avonbeg runs at the foot of the wooded slopes, which in late spring are ablaze with magnificent rhododendrons. There are a number of great ice-carried boulders about. The road from Drumgoff follows the Avonbeg for eight miles to the Meeting of the Waters, first on the left side of the stream, then crossing it at Strand Bridge, and continuing down the right bank.

Internet Archive pictorialdescrip19ward, Chapter 76

Silken Thomas hanged at Tyburn

Maynooth · town · Kildare · 1537

The Earl called 'Silken Thomas', named for the silk fringes worn by his followers' helmets, surrendered shortly after the siege and was hanged at Tyburn with five of his uncles.

Read the passage

dines lorded it over the greater part of Munster, but the " position of the Geraldines of Kildare was even more important," says the Hon. Emily Lawless in her Story of the [Irish Nation, " on account of their close proximity to Dublin. In later times their great keep at Maynooth dominated the whole Pale, while their followers swarmed everywhere, each man with a G embroidered upon his breast in token of his allegiance." From 1480 to 151 3 Gerald the eighth earl, called Geroit Mor, or the Great, was to all intents and purposes King of Ireland. Indeed, when summoned to London to answer a charge of conspiracy, the other barons swore that " all Ireland could not govern the Earl of Kildare." " Then let the Earl of Kildare govern all Ireland," replied Henry. The king advised him, however, to get a good counsel. " By St. Bride," said the earl, " I know well the fellow I would have ; yea, and the best in England, too ! " " Who is he ? " said the king. " Marry, the king himself," laughed the bold earl. Kildare was reinstated as deputy , his son succeeded him, and the grandson also ; but with the latter's reign came the downfall, for, his father having been placed in prison, the hot-headed youth formally declared war against the King, then Henry VIII, cannonaded the English ships from Howth Hill, and garrisoned his castle at Maynooth. Artillery soon, however, broke the hitherto invulnerable fortress, and the defenders surrendered. Many of them were hung in a row, and hence in after years, " the Pardon of Maynooth," meant the gallows. The Earl, called " Silken Thomas," because the fringes of his followers' helmets were of that material, surrendered shortly after, and a year or two later was hanged at Tyburn with five of his uncles.
The castle grounds are now laid out as pleasure gardens, and trees adorn the slopes of the old fosse.

Internet Archive pictorialdescrip19ward, Chapter 39

As the companion tells it

The town you are passing through, Maynooth, was once dominated by the Geraldines of Kildare. Their great keep dominated the whole Pale, and their followers swarmed everywhere, each man with a G embroidered upon his breast in token of his allegiance. From 1480, Gerald, the 8th earl, called Geroit Mor, the Great, was to all intents and purposes King of Ireland. When summoned to London to answer a charge of conspiracy, the other barons swore that "all Ireland could not govern the Earl of Kildare." Henry replied, "Then let the Earl of Kildare govern all Ireland." The king advised him to get a good counsel. "By St. Bride," said the earl, "I know well the fellow I would have; yea, and the best in England, too." The king asked who it was. "Marry, the king himself," laughed the bold earl. Kildare was reinstated as deputy. His son succeeded him, and the grandson also. But with the grandson came the downfall. His father having been placed in prison, the hot-headed youth formally declared war against the King, then Henry VIII, cannonaded the English ships from Howth Hill, and garrisoned his castle at Maynooth. Artillery broke the hitherto invulnerable fortress, and the defenders surrendered. Many of them were hung in a row, and hence in after years "the Pardon of Maynooth" meant the gallows. The Earl, called Silken Thomas because the fringes of his followers' helmets were of that material, surrendered shortly after, and in 1537 was hanged at Tyburn with 5 of his uncles. The castle grounds are now laid out as pleasure gardens, and trees adorn the slopes of the old fosse.

St Patrick lights the Paschal fire on the Hill of Slane

Hill of Slane · hill or hills · Meath · 433

St Patrick is believed to have begun his mission work at the Hill of Slane, arriving on Easter Eve 433 AD, where in disobedience to pagan custom he lighted the Paschal fire and was summoned to Tara to be punished.

Read the passage

From Drogheda, the Hill of Slane, with its interesting ruins and associations with St. Patrick, may also be visited. St. Patrick is believed to have begun his mission work here, and it was once a centre of learning in Ireland. There are ruins of an Abbey and College on the top of the hill, crowned by a square tower. It was here that St. Patrick arrived on Easter Eve, 433 a.d., and, in disobedience to the Pagan custom, lighted the Paschal fire and was summoned to Tara to be punished.
From the picturesque ruined tower the view is charming. Some ten miles distant may be seen the Hill of Tara, once the capital of Ireland and the residence of the kings in ancient times. No traces of its past grandeur remain. Excavations were carried on here, in the hope of discovering the Ark of the Covenant ! Parallel mounds with depressions for entrances mark the boundaries of Tara's famous banqueting Hall. There are left many raths or mounds on which the principal buildings stood. The largest is oval, some 350 feet long, and encircled by a double earthwork. There are also two pillar stones, one of which is supposed to be the real Lia Fail, or Stone of Destiny ; but the structures of those days were probably only of wattle, and have perished.

Internet Archive pictorialdescrip19ward, Chapter 52

As the companion tells it

You are coming near the Hill of Slane in Meath. St. Patrick is believed to have begun his mission work here, and it was once a centre of learning in Ireland. On Easter Eve in 433, he arrived and, in disobedience to the pagan custom, lighted the Paschal fire. For this he was summoned to Tara to be punished. Ruins of an abbey and college stand on the top of the hill, crowned by a square tower. From that tower the Hill of Tara can be seen some ten miles away, once the capital of Ireland and the residence of the kings in ancient times. No traces of its past grandeur remain. Excavations were carried out there in the hope of discovering the Ark of the Covenant. Parallel mounds with depressions for entrances mark the boundaries of Tara's famous banqueting hall, and many raths remain on which the principal buildings stood.

The Mock Kingdom of Dalkey Island

Dalkey Island · townland · Dublin · 1700–1799

In the eighteenth century a mock 'Kingdom of Dalkey Island' was established, with a monarch elected yearly as 'His facetious Majesty King of Dalkey.' The king had a Prime Minister, Archbishop, and nobility, and was anointed with whisky at coronation until the Government suppressed the society, suspecting conspiracy.

Read the passage

About a quarter of a mile off the coast is Dalkey Island, now used only for pasturage and picnics. On it are fragments of a tiny oratory dedicated to Saint Benedict, and a martello tower on the site of an old Milesian fort. It commands a very charming view of the coast scenery, with the hills behind. In the eighteenth century the mock " Kingdom of Dalkey Island " was established, a monarch being elected every year with the title of " His facetious Majesty King of Dalkey, Emperor of Muglins, defender of his own faith and respecter of all others, and Sovereign of the Illustrious Order of the Lobster and Periwinkles." This potentate had his Prime Minister, Archbishop, nobility, and great officers of state, and at his coronation was anointed with whisky ; but the Government, suspecting conspiracy in the affair, suppressed it. Stephen Armitage, a bookseller of Dublin, is said to have been the last king, and when one of the Dublin Castle officials tried to learn from him the secrets of the society with the question, " You have some privileges in return for the large sums of money you expend, I suppose ? " the king replied, *' Surely ; we have the privilege of importing thirty thousand barrels free of duty." " Good heavens ! " said the official, " thirty thousand barrels of what ? " " Salt-water, my lord."
During the summer months a char-a-banc (fare 3^. each way) meets the train at Dalkey for the beautiful run to the entrance gate of Killlney Hill (now the Victoria Park, the hill having been purchased for the public). Every visitor should, if possible, go to the top of the hill, about a mile's walk from Dalkey Station. The view from the summit is unrivalled, even by the famous Bay of Naples. The hills all round, the mountains far away, the green wooded valleys and the rich, deep blue of the bay make up a magnificent scene. The return may be made along the new Vico Road, with its lovely views, to Dalkey or to Killiney.

Internet Archive pictorialdescrip19ward

Vinegar Hill: defeat and executions of the 1798 rebels

near Vinegar Hill · hill or hills · Wexford · 1798

At Vinegar Hill outside Enniscorthy the rebels of 1798 were defeated, and many of them were put to death in the tower or windmill still standing on the hill; memorial statues to those who fell were later erected in Enniscorthy and Wexford.

Read the passage

Enniscorthy comes next, a hilly town. The old Castle, built in the twelfth century, has been restored and is now inhabited. It was granted to the poet Spenser by Queen Elizabeth. Just outside the town is Vinegar Hill, of ominous fame, for here the rebels of 1798 were defeated and many of them put to death in the tower or windmill, still standing on the hill. There is a wide view from here. The memorial statues erected in Enniscorthy and Wexford to the memory of those who fell in the rebellion of 1798 are extraordinarily vigorous and well-executed. Near Enniscorthy is an immense Lunatic Asylum.
A branch line to the west leads to the charmingly-situated little town of New Ross, and thence to Waterford. The main line continues southward. Before reaching Wexford there is a picturesque view at Ferrycarrig, where the river narrows ; high on one bank stands a monument in the form of a Round Tower to those who fell in the Crimean War, and on the other side are the remains of an ancient fortress, the first Norman castle built in Ireland. Thence it is only a short run to the ancient town of —

Internet Archive pictorialdescrip19ward, Chapter 80

As the companion tells it

Just outside Enniscorthy, this is Vinegar Hill, where the rebels of 1798 were defeated and many of them put to death in the tower or windmill that still stands on the hill. There is a wide view from here. The memorial statues later erected in Enniscorthy and Wexford to the memory of those who fell in the rebellion are described as extraordinarily vigorous and well executed. The hill itself carries the memory of that defeat and those killings. Enniscorthy, the hilly town below, has its own history. Its old castle, built in the twelfth century, was granted to the poet Spenser by Queen Elizabeth and has since been restored and is now inhabited. The rebellion of 1798 left its mark here more sharply than anywhere, and the windmill on the hill is the structure most tied to what happened.

Battle of Clontarf, the 'Marathon of Ireland'

Clontarf · parish · Dublin · 1014

Clontarf is known as 'the Marathon of Ireland' from the desperate battle fought there between Brian Boru and the Danish invaders in the early eleventh century, though later research suggests the actual battle site was closer to Dublin.

Read the passage

founded here in 550, though no traces remain. Its name signifies " the plain of the bull," a large sandbank near having been considered to resemble a bull. It is also known as " the Marathon of Ireland," from the desperate battle fought upon its plain between the brave Brian Boru and the Danish invaders in the beginning of the eleventh century, though late researches would seem to indicate a spot nearer Dublin as the scene of the conflict. Clontarf Castle, the seat of the Irish Vernons since 1660, a handsome castellated mansion, was rebuilt in 1835.
Marino House, now a Roman Catholic training institution for the Christian Brothers, is a fine stone mansion, and has in its day been the shrine of rich treasures of sculpture and painting. These collections, with those from the town house in Rutland Square, have been removed to the Caulfeilds' seat in County Tyrone. Grattan, Curran, and Flood were frequent visitors during the residence here of the Earl. The demesne, some two hundred acres in extent, contains some fine trees, and from the roof of the Doric Temple a splendid view is obtained of the Bay, Howth Hill, and the Dublin and Wicklow hiUs. It is, however, difficult to obtain entrance to the demesne. At Clontarf also is the O'Brien Institute for Roman Catholic Orphan Boys.

Internet Archive pictorialdescrip19ward

Grattan declares Irish Legislative Independence

Dublin · city · Dublin · 1782

In 1782 Grattan moved 'The Declaration of the Independence of the Legislation of Ireland' in the Irish Parliament, which was finally passed amid wild excitement with volunteers parading Dublin streets, cannon firing, and banners flying.

Read the passage

As, however, the century advanced, the eloquence of Burke, Grattan, and Flood, of Burgh and Hutchinson, began to tell. A vast volunteer movement was inaugurated in Ireland under James, Lord Charlemont ; sixty thousand men were enrolled and armed, and Ireland had an army of her own. Backed by this formidable force her wrongs now stood some chance of being righted. " Talk not to me of peace," said Burgh : " it is not peace ; it is smothered war. England has sown her laws as dragons' teeth, and they have sprung up armed men." A measure of tardy justice was at length done. In 1779 the Test Act disabling Dissenters was repealed, and the iniquitous trade restrictions were removed. Immediately industries revived, and something like approaching prosperity smiled on poor Ireland. Now Grattan determined to free the Irish Parliament from the English yoke. In 1782 he moved " The Declaration of the Independence of the Legislation of Ireland," and though it was at first rejected it was finally passed amid the wildest excitement : volunteers parading Dublin streets, cannon firing, bands playing, banners flying.
In a burst of gratitude Grattan declared himself England's devoted friend, and the Irish Parliament immediately voted ;^ioo,ooo and twenty thousand men for the support of the British navy.

Internet Archive pictorialdescrip19ward, Chapter 21

As the companion tells it

In 1782 Dublin saw the moment many had worked years to reach. Henry Grattan moved "The Declaration of the Independence of the Legislation of Ireland" in the Irish Parliament, and though it was first rejected, it was finally passed amid wild excitement. Volunteers paraded the streets, cannon fired, bands played, banners flew. The backing of a volunteer movement of 60,000 armed men under Lord Charlemont had given the cause its force. Burgh had warned, "Talk not to me of peace: it is not peace; it is smothered war." Now Grattan declared himself England's devoted friend, and the Irish Parliament voted 100,000 and 20,000 men for the support of the British navy.

Devorgilla's tomb found at Mellifont Abbey

Mellifont · townland · Louth · 1142

At the chancel end of the old Church of the Monastery at Mellifont, the tomb of Devorgilla, the 'Irish Helen' whose flight with Mac Murrough first led the Anglo-Normans to Ireland, has been found; she took refuge and lived here.

Read the passage

1 1 42 by Donough Mac Corvoill or Carrol, and was the home of a colony of Cistercian monks, sent over by St. Bernard from Clairvaux. After the Dissolution of the Monasteries, the Abbey was converted into a castle by Lord Moore, an ancestor of the Marquis of Drogheda, to whom it was granted. The ruins consist chiefly of an octagonal baptistery (usually so called), probably the oldest part and in the early roundarched style ; St. Bernard's Chapel (now, however, believed to be the Chapter House) in the Pointed style ; and the foundations of the old Church of the Monastery, which have lately been unearthed by the Board of Works and which are found to extend into an adjoining garden. Here, at the chancel end, has been found the tomb of Devorgilla, the Irish Helen, whose flight with Mac Murrough first led the Anglo-Normans to Ireland. She took refuge and lived here. The ruins are under the care of the Board of Works.
Another circular mound and the ruins of a thirteenthcentury church may be seen in the field above the Abbey.

Internet Archive pictorialdescrip19ward, Chapter 51

Legend of St Kevin and Kathleen at Glendalough

Glendalough · electoral division · Wicklow

According to popular legend, St Kevin fled to Glendalough because a beautiful maiden loved him; she tracked him to his cave with the help of a dog, and he hurled her from the rock into the lake below, where she drowned, her ghost afterwards seen gliding over the water.

Read the passage

" Sternly from his bed he starts, And with rude, repulsive shock, Hurls her from the beetling rock.
" Glendalough, thy gloomy wave Soon was gentle Kathleen's grave ! Soon the saiat (yet, ah ! too late) Felt her love, and moum'd her fate.

Internet Archive pictorialdescrip19ward, Chapter 74

O'Connell-D'Esterre duel at Clondalkin

near Clondalkin · town · Dublin

Clondalkin was the site of the famous duel between Daniel O'Connell and D'Esterre, in which D'Esterre was shot dead. The event left a lasting moral impact on O'Connell, giving him a horror of bloodshed for the rest of his life.

Read the passage

Clondalkin was the scene of the famous duel between Daniel O'Connell and D'Esterre, in which the latter was shot dead, while the moral shock to O'Connell coloured the whole of his after-life, and gave him a horror of bloodshed.
HOWTH.

Internet Archive pictorialdescrip19ward, Chapter 45

As the companion tells it

As you come through Clondalkin, you are passing the scene of a famous duel between Daniel O'Connell and D'Esterre. D'Esterre was shot dead. The moral shock stayed with O'Connell for the rest of his life and gave him a lasting horror of bloodshed.

Robert Emmet executed on Thomas Street

Thomas Street · street · Dublin · 1803

Robert Emmet was executed opposite the Church of the Augustinian Friars on Thomas Street in 1803.

Read the passage

Still keeping to the west along Thomas Street, and passing the site of a former prison, now an open playground, we reach the Church of the Augustinian Friars, one of the finest in the city. Robert Emmet was executed opposite this in 1803. Guinness's Brewery is reached by continuing on from Thomas Street to James Street. A limited number of visitors are admitted and conducted through the Brewery hourly each day from 11 to 3, Saturdays 11 to 12, though it is better to secure an order beforehand {see p. 33). The entrance is in James Street. The Inchicore trams,which start from Westland Row and run via College Green, pass the door. Farther west are the Grand Canal Docks, the City Basin, the South Union Workhouse, and Swift's, Steeven's, and the Royal Hospitals, the disused Kilmainham Gaol and the Richmond Barracks.
If the visitor has now exhausted the time at his disposal, and wishes to return to Sackville Street, he can reach the quays by Winetavern Street, or any of the thoroughfares on the right, then turning to the right he will shortly regain O'Connell Bridge, passing Richmond, Grattan, and Metal

Internet Archive pictorialdescrip19ward, Chapter 27

As the companion tells it

Along here on Thomas Street, you pass the site of a former prison, now an open playground, and come to the Church of the Augustinian Friars, one of the finest in the city. Robert Emmet was executed opposite this church in 1803. Continuing west from Thomas Street leads to James Street and Guinness's Brewery. A limited number of visitors are admitted and conducted through the brewery hourly each day from 11 to 3, Saturdays 11 to 12, though it is better to secure an order beforehand. The entrance is in James Street. The Inchicore trams, which start from Westland Row and run via College Green, pass the door. Farther west are the Grand Canal Docks, the City Basin, the South Union Workhouse, Swift's, Steeven's, and the Royal Hospitals, the disused Kilmainham Gaol, and the Richmond Barracks.

Siege of Londonderry holds out for William

near Derry · city · Derry · 1689

During the Williamite War, the Protestants in Londonderry held out when all hope seemed lost, a key episode in the struggle between James II's Catholic forces and William's Protestant supporters.

Read the passage

testants in Londonderry held out when all hope seemed lost ; James was beaten at the Boyne and fled ; his generals were finally overcome, and Limerick, the last stronghold, capitulated.
Then commenced a long series of acts with the view of utterly stamping out Roman Catholicism by depriving its adherents of property, of education, of position and influence. The English Parliament, by the Penal Laws, prohibited a Catholic from carrying arms, from owning a horse worth more than £$, from having any vote, from acquiring any freehold land, from practising in any profession or holding any civil or crown post, from educating his sons at home or abroad, while any child of his who chose to turn Protestant might dispossess all the others. All priests were ordered to leave the country on pain of death. It is remarkable that at no time did Catholicism flourish more than during the hundred years these monstrous laws were in force, England suppressed the woollen trade, she suppressed the cattle trade, and placed heavy duties on the linen exported.

Internet Archive pictorialdescrip19ward, Chapter 21

Stephen Armitage, the Last King of Dalkey

Dalkey Island · townland · Dublin

Stephen Armitage, a Dublin bookseller, is said to have been the last king of the mock Kingdom of Dalkey Island. When a Dublin Castle official tried to learn the society's secrets, the king wittily replied about importing thirty thousand barrels of salt-water free of duty.

Read the passage

About a quarter of a mile off the coast is Dalkey Island, now used only for pasturage and picnics. On it are fragments of a tiny oratory dedicated to Saint Benedict, and a martello tower on the site of an old Milesian fort. It commands a very charming view of the coast scenery, with the hills behind. In the eighteenth century the mock " Kingdom of Dalkey Island " was established, a monarch being elected every year with the title of " His facetious Majesty King of Dalkey, Emperor of Muglins, defender of his own faith and respecter of all others, and Sovereign of the Illustrious Order of the Lobster and Periwinkles." This potentate had his Prime Minister, Archbishop, nobility, and great officers of state, and at his coronation was anointed with whisky ; but the Government, suspecting conspiracy in the affair, suppressed it. Stephen Armitage, a bookseller of Dublin, is said to have been the last king, and when one of the Dublin Castle officials tried to learn from him the secrets of the society with the question, " You have some privileges in return for the large sums of money you expend, I suppose ? " the king replied, *' Surely ; we have the privilege of importing thirty thousand barrels free of duty." " Good heavens ! " said the official, " thirty thousand barrels of what ? " " Salt-water, my lord."
During the summer months a char-a-banc (fare 3^. each way) meets the train at Dalkey for the beautiful run to the entrance gate of Killlney Hill (now the Victoria Park, the hill having been purchased for the public). Every visitor should, if possible, go to the top of the hill, about a mile's walk from Dalkey Station. The view from the summit is unrivalled, even by the famous Bay of Naples. The hills all round, the mountains far away, the green wooded valleys and the rich, deep blue of the bay make up a magnificent scene. The return may be made along the new Vico Road, with its lovely views, to Dalkey or to Killiney.

Internet Archive pictorialdescrip19ward

Maud Plunket: maid, wife, and widow on the same day

Malahide · town · Dublin

The ruins of Malahide Abbey, burial-place of the Talbots for centuries, contain the altar-tomb and effigy of Maud Plunket. She married the son of the Baron of Galtrim, who was slain a few hours later, making her maid, wife, and widow on the same day.

Read the passage

The ruins of the old church of Malahide Abbey, for centuries the burial-place of the Talbots, contain the altar-tomb and effigy of one of the Talbot ladies, Maud Plunket. Having married the son of the Baron of Galtrim, who was slain a few hours later, she was " maid, wife, and widow on the same day."
About two and a half miles west of Malahide (by public car, 6d.), and ten from Dublin, may be seen the Round Tower of Swords, considered one of the finest of its kind, and dating from the beginning of the ninth century. It is 78 feet high, and has no cap, but is otherwise perfect.

Internet Archive pictorialdescrip19ward, Chapter 48

Founding of Glasnevin Cemetery

Glasnevin · townland · Dublin · 1832

Glasnevin Cemetery, also known as Prospect Cemetery, was formed in 1832 and is the burial place of Daniel O'Connell, John Philpot Curran, and Charles Stewart Parnell.

Read the passage

Glasnevin Cemetery, also known as Prospect Cemetery. It was formed in 1832, and occupies an area of considerable extent, being laid out with great taste. Leafy avenues intersect it in every direction, and striking monuments are everywhere to be seen. The mortuary chapel is close to the gates, and the conspicuous Monument to Daniel O'Connell, the " Liberator," who died in 1847 at Genoa, is immediately opposite. This takes the shape of one of the old round towers of Ireland, and rises to an altitude of 160 feet, with a cross eight feet high surmounting it. In the moat below are a number of vaults, in one of which lies Steele, O'Connell's staunch supporter. His epitaph is simplicity itself — " Honest Tom Steele." Near by is the tomb of William Dargan, the industrial regenerator of Ireland. The beautiful little Gothic Memorial Chapel to O'Connell, designed by Dr. Petrie, is just to the right.
The Grave of Parnell, which, on the anniversary of his death, is visited by great crowds, lies opposite the door of the mortuary chapel. No tombstone has been erected. It is surrounded by iron railings, and almost covered by artificial wreaths and crosses. Near Parnell's grave is a fine statue to Barry Sullivan, the tragedian.

Internet Archive pictorialdescrip19ward, Chapter 40

As the companion tells it

Somewhere around here is Glasnevin Cemetery, also known as Prospect Cemetery, formed in 1832. It's laid out with leafy avenues running through it and striking monuments throughout. Daniel O'Connell, the "Liberator," who died in 1847 at Genoa, has a monument here shaped like one of the old round towers of Ireland, rising 160 feet with an 8-foot cross on top. Below it in the moat are vaults, one holding O'Connell's staunch supporter Steele, whose epitaph reads simply "Honest Tom Steele." Nearby is the tomb of William Dargan, the industrial regenerator of Ireland, and a Gothic memorial chapel to O'Connell designed by Dr. Petrie. Parnell's grave lies opposite the door of the mortuary chapel, with no tombstone erected, surrounded by iron railings and almost covered with artificial wreaths and crosses. Great crowds visit it on the anniversary of his death. Near Parnell's grave stands a fine statue to Barry Sullivan, the tragedian. John Philpot Curran is also buried here.

Captain Boyd and Ajax seamen drowned in 1861 gale

Kingstown · townland · Dublin · 1861

On the East Pier at Kingstown stands a monument to Captain Boyd and the seamen of the Ajax, who were drowned in attempting to save life during a great gale in 1861.

Read the passage

The Harbour, begun in 1817 and completed in 1859, at a cost of about a million pounds, embraces an area of some 250 acres. On the East Pier, which is the fashionable promenade and is nearly a mile long, bands perform on summer evenings, while 5 p.m. is always a time of excitement, for at that hour the City of Dublin Steam Packet Company's splendid boats arrive. On the East Pier stands a monument to Captain Boyd and the seamen of the A fax, who were drowned in attempting to save life in a great gale in 1861. Kingstown is distinguished for its heroism in this respect. The gallant but fatal efforts of the Kingstown lifeboat crew during the winter of 1895-6 will be long remembered. To them also a memorial has been erected near the pier. The Kingstown fort, fitted with heavy guns, stands near the Lighthouse at the end of the East Pier, and commands the bay.
The West Pier is a favourite cycling and bathing resort, and is considerably longer than the East Pier. The view of Kingstown Harbour, with its background of wooded hills, is extremely beautiful as seen from here or from the cross- Channel boats.

Internet Archive pictorialdescrip19ward, Chapter 55

Grave of Dermot MacMurrough at Ferns

Ferns · townland · Wexford

In the churchyard at Ferns is the grave of the last King of Leinster, Dermot MacMurrough, whose daughter married Strongbow; he lived in the nearby castle whose tower can be ascended for its extensive view.

Read the passage

At Ferns, once an important town, are the ruins of a castle and of an abbey or cathedral, part of which forms the present Church. In the churchyard is the grave of the last King of Leinster, whose daughter married Strongbow. This King, Dermot MacMurrough, lived in the Castle, the tower of which should be ascended for the sake of the extensive view. From Ferns the line runs close by the river Slaney, and becomes increasingly pretty. Many ruined castles and towers still stand to bear witness to the fierce battles of old, for this is all historic ground.
Enniscorthy comes next, a hilly town. The old Castle, built in the twelfth century, has been restored and is now inhabited. It was granted to the poet Spenser by Queen Elizabeth. Just outside the town is Vinegar Hill, of ominous fame, for here the rebels of 1798 were defeated and many of them put to death in the tower or windmill, still standing on the hill. There is a wide view from here. The memorial statues erected in Enniscorthy and Wexford to the memory of those who fell in the rebellion of 1798 are extraordinarily vigorous and well-executed. Near Enniscorthy is an immense Lunatic Asylum.

Internet Archive pictorialdescrip19ward, Chapter 80

Handel's Messiah first performed at Fishamble Street Music Hall

Fishamble Street · street · Dublin · 1742

At the music hall that formerly stood at Fishamble Street, Handel's Messiah was first performed in 1742 under Handel's own conductorship, with proceeds devoted to charity.

Read the passage

Leaving the Castle, we continue up Dame Street and its continuation, Lord Edward Street, at the end of which is the Dublin and Harding Working Boys' Home and Technical School, and cross the head of Fishamble Street, where the Exchequer and a famous music hall formerly stood. In this hall Handel's Messiah was first performed in 1742, under Handel's own conductorship, the proceeds being devoted to charity. At No. 3, Lord Edward Street, the poet Mangan was born. The house faces the east end of the ancient Priory Church of the Holy Trinity, commonly called —
Christ Church Cathedral.

Internet Archive pictorialdescrip19ward, Chapter 27

As the companion tells it

Along here on Fishamble Street, a music hall once stood where something remarkable happened. In 1742, Handel's Messiah was first performed in that hall, conducted by Handel himself, with the proceeds going to charity. The Exchequer also formerly stood on this street. The hall is gone now, but this is where Dublin first heard one of the most famous works in music.

O'Connell Monument and Tower at Glasnevin

Glasnevin · townland · Dublin · 1847

The conspicuous monument to Daniel O'Connell, who died in 1847 at Genoa, takes the shape of a round tower of Ireland rising to 160 feet, with vaults below including that of Tom Steele.

Read the passage

Glasnevin Cemetery, also known as Prospect Cemetery. It was formed in 1832, and occupies an area of considerable extent, being laid out with great taste. Leafy avenues intersect it in every direction, and striking monuments are everywhere to be seen. The mortuary chapel is close to the gates, and the conspicuous Monument to Daniel O'Connell, the " Liberator," who died in 1847 at Genoa, is immediately opposite. This takes the shape of one of the old round towers of Ireland, and rises to an altitude of 160 feet, with a cross eight feet high surmounting it. In the moat below are a number of vaults, in one of which lies Steele, O'Connell's staunch supporter. His epitaph is simplicity itself — " Honest Tom Steele." Near by is the tomb of William Dargan, the industrial regenerator of Ireland. The beautiful little Gothic Memorial Chapel to O'Connell, designed by Dr. Petrie, is just to the right.
The Grave of Parnell, which, on the anniversary of his death, is visited by great crowds, lies opposite the door of the mortuary chapel. No tombstone has been erected. It is surrounded by iron railings, and almost covered by artificial wreaths and crosses. Near Parnell's grave is a fine statue to Barry Sullivan, the tragedian.

Internet Archive pictorialdescrip19ward, Chapter 40

As the companion tells it

Somewhere around here is Glasnevin Cemetery, laid out in 1832 with leafy avenues running through it and striking monuments everywhere. The most conspicuous of them all is the monument to Daniel O'Connell, the man they called the Liberator, who died in 1847 at Genoa. It takes the shape of one of the old round towers of Ireland and rises to 160 feet, with a cross eight feet high on top. Down in the moat below are a number of vaults, and in one of them lies Steele, O'Connell's staunch supporter. His epitaph reads simply, Honest Tom Steele. Close by is the tomb of William Dargan, the industrial regenerator of Ireland, and a beautiful little Gothic memorial chapel to O'Connell designed by Dr. Petrie. The grave of Parnell lies opposite the door of the mortuary chapel, with no tombstone erected, surrounded by iron railings and almost covered with artificial wreaths and crosses. Near Parnell's grave stands a fine statue to Barry Sullivan, the tragedian.

Site of assassination of Lord Frederick Cavendish marked by crosses

Phoenix Park · electoral division · Dublin

Opposite an opening in the shrubbery near the Viceregal Lodge, two crosses cut into the path mark the site of the murder of the Chief Secretary, Lord Frederick Cavendish.

Read the passage

Exactly opposite an opening in the shrubbery two crosses may be seen cut into the path on the left hand. The one nearer the road marks the site of the murder of the Chief Secretary, Lord Frederick Cavendish, and that nearer the
Dublin.

Internet Archive pictorialdescrip19ward, Chapter 37

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Phoenix Park, you may see two crosses cut into the path near an opening in the shrubbery. They mark where the Chief Secretary, Lord Frederick Cavendish, was murdered.

St Kevin founds the monastery of Glendalough

Glendalough · electoral division · Wicklow · 498–618

St Kevin, born in 498, took the cowl about 520 and withdrew to the lonely glen of Glendalough to live as a hermit, dwelling first in a hollow tree and then in a cave accessible only by boat. Disciples gathered, and at an angel's bidding he founded the monastery that became the parent of many others.

Read the passage

The history of the valley is the history of St. Kevin, or Coemgeve, the " fair-born," who, born in 498, took the cowl about the year 520, and withdrew to this lonely glen to lead a hermit's life. " On the northern shore his dweJhng was a hollow tree ; on the southern he dwelt in a very narrow cave, to which there was no access except by a boat, for a

Internet Archive pictorialdescrip19ward, Chapter 73

Green Street Courthouse tried Fenians and Phoenix Park assassins

Green Street · street · Dublin

Green Street contains the old Courthouse where O'Donovan Rossa and many other Fenians, and the Phoenix Park assassins, were tried and sentenced.

Read the passage

At the top of Church Street we turn to the right along King Street and Bolton Street, passing the Linen Hall Barracks. Green Street, turning off to the right of King Street, contains the old Courthouse where O'Donovan Rossa and many other Fenians, and the Phoenix Park assassins, were tried and sentenced. A new court-house and police cells have been built. At the end of Henrietta Street, on the left-hand side of Bolton Street, are the King's Inns, a very striking building, consisting of a centre and two wings, surmounted by a painted cupola. Lofty caryatides support the pediments of the wings. The dining hall is a grand apartment, ornamented with portraits and busts. The King's Inns were built in 1776- 84. The library was removed in 1802 to a handsome structure in Henrietta Street. The works are, of course, chiefly legal. To the west of the Inns there is a whole nest of public buildings : the Hardwicke, Richmond and Whitworth Hospitals, the North Dublin Workhouse, Richmond Lunatic Asylum (an immense place with over 2,000 patients), Richmond Penitentiary, Grangegorman Prison, etc.
The Richmond Surgical Hospital, rebuilt a few years ago, is perfectly appointed, and well worth a visit. Connected with it are the Hardwicke Fever and Whitworth Medical Hospitals, supported by a Government grant, and attended by a large number of medical students.

Internet Archive pictorialdescrip19ward, Chapter 35

As the companion tells it

On this street is the old Green Street Courthouse, where O'Donovan Rossa and many other Fenians were tried and sentenced. The Phoenix Park assassins were tried and sentenced here too. A new court-house and police cells have been built. The street turns off King Street, and the area around it holds a nest of public buildings. At the end of Henrietta Street are the King's Inns, a very striking building consisting of a centre and two wings, surmounted by a painted cupola. Lofty caryatides support the pediments of the wings. The dining hall is a grand apartment, ornamented with portraits and busts. The library was removed to a handsome structure in Henrietta Street, and the works are chiefly legal. To the west of the Inns there is a whole nest of public buildings. The Hardwicke, Richmond and Whitworth Hospitals are there, along with the North Dublin Workhouse. The Richmond Lunatic Asylum is an immense place with over 2,000 patients. There is also the Richmond Penitentiary and Grangegorman Prison. The Richmond Surgical Hospital, rebuilt a few years ago, is perfectly appointed. Connected with it are the Hardwicke Fever and Whitworth Medical Hospitals, supported by a Government grant and attended by a large number of medical students.

Muredach's Cross at Monasterboice dated to 924

Monasterboice · townland · Louth · 924

Muredach's Cross at Monasterboice bears an inscription translated as a prayer for Muredach, who died in 924, making this the probable date of the cross, one of the finest works of Celtic Christian sculpture.

Read the passage

Celtic ornamentation cut in the stone ; the other, Muredach's Cross, though not so high, is much more beautiful, and the sculpturings are considerably sharper. We may well wonder how these were done, with the rough tools of that time, and with what infinite patience. At the foot, on the west, is an inscription translated by Dr. Petrie into " A Prayer for Muredach, by whom the cross was made." As Abbot Muredach died in 924, this is the probable age of this wonderful production of the Celtic Christians. At the south-east angle of the enclosure stands a broken but repaired cross, called St. Columhkille's Cross. Tradition has it that Cromwell broke this in pieces. This was perhaps Secretary Cromwell, who under Henry VIII destroyed so many monastic treasures.
Regaining the main road and passing down the hill, a run of about five miles, with Killlneer House and its wooded demesne on the left, will bring us back to Drogheda.

Internet Archive pictorialdescrip19ward

Avondale, once Parnell's seat, now a forestry school

Avondale · townland · Wicklow

Avondale, once the seat of Charles Stewart Parnell, was located south of Rathdrum. The demesne has been acquired by the Department of Agriculture to teach forestry, and visitors are allowed to wander there.

Read the passage

Reaching the main road above Rathdrum station, and high above the stream, we turn to the left, and, passing a pleasant residence with a tower, soon reach Avondale (i^ miles south of Rathdrum), once the seat of Charles Stewart Parnell. The demesne, in which visitors are allowed to wander, has been acquired by the Department of Agriculture for the purpose of teaching forestry.
Getting back to the high-road we continue the descent, with occasional glimpses of the charming valley below ; then, passing Kingston House, the superblj^-situated Castle Howard, high up on the opposite bank, attracts attention. At the foot of the road it is worth while to turn up a by-road to the left and cross the picturesque, creeper-covered Lion Bridge for the view up the beautiful river valley. Castle Howard, the seat of Colonel Brook Howard, was designed by Sir John \''anbrugh, and is one of the most finely situated of country seats. No difficulty is made if anyone wishes to drive through the densely-planted grounds.

Internet Archive pictorialdescrip19ward, Chapter 77

As the companion tells it

Somewhere around here is Avondale, south of Rathdrum, once the seat of Charles Stewart Parnell. The demesne has been acquired by the Department of Agriculture for the purpose of teaching forestry, and visitors are allowed to wander there. The approach brings you past a pleasant residence with a tower, along the main road above Rathdrum station, high above the stream. Getting back to the high road, the descent continues with occasional glimpses of the charming valley below. Passing Kingston House, Castle Howard attracts attention, high up on the opposite bank, a superbly situated country seat. It was designed by Sir John Vanbrugh and was the seat of Colonel Brook Howard. At the foot of the road, a by-road to the left leads across the picturesque, creeper-covered Lion Bridge for the view up the beautiful river valley. No difficulty is made if anyone wishes to drive through the densely planted grounds of Castle Howard.

Birthplace of the poet Thomas Moore in Aungier Street

Aungier Street · street · Dublin

No. 12 Aungier Street is the birthplace of the poet Thomas Moore, whose father was a grocer there. The house is still standing and occupied by a shopkeeper, with a small bust in a niche, though the gable window mentioned by Moore is gone.

Read the passage

Aungier Street, which we reach after passing along the south side of the Convent, has an importance to Ireland and to English literature as being the Birthplace of the Poet Moore. The house. No. 12, is still standing, and, as in the poet's time, is occupied by a shopkeeper. (Moore's father was a grocer.) A small bust occupies a niche above the first-floor windows. The " little gable window by which I penned my earliest verses, the Melodies, etc.," is gone, and the shop front is altered, but otherwise very few interior or exterior changes have been made. Also in Aungier Street is St. Peter's Church.
Trams run down Aungier Street to College Green and Nelson's Pillar, or the return can be made down York Street into Stephen's Green and Grafton Street.

Internet Archive pictorialdescrip19ward, Chapter 29

As the companion tells it

Along here on Aungier Street is the birthplace of the poet Thomas Moore. Number 12 is still standing and, as in Moore's time, occupied by a shopkeeper. His father was a grocer on the premises. A small bust sits in a niche above the first-floor windows, and few interior or exterior changes have been made otherwise. The little gable window by which Moore penned his earliest verses, the Melodies, is gone, and the shop front has been altered. St. Peter's Church is also on this street.

Celbridge Abbey and Swift's Vanessa

Celbridge · town · Kildare

At Celbridge Abbey lived Swift's 'Vanessa' (Esther Vanhomrigh), and a riverside seat beneath the rocks is said to have been their favourite retreat for reading and conversation.

Read the passage

A short distance further west is the demesne and residence of the Conolly family, Castletown. From the front of the mansion (which is said to contain 365 windows, one for each day of the year) a fine avenue of limes leads by the main gate south-westwards to the clean little village of Celbridge. At Celbridge Abbey lived Swift's " Vanessa " (Esther Vanhomrigh), and a seat beneath the rocks at the river's edge is said to have been their favourite retreat for reading and conversation.
From Leixlip station, on the Midland and Great Western line, a run of three miles and three-quarters, affording good views of the river Rye and the charming and extensive demesne of Carton, the seat of the Duke of Leinster {grounds open to the public), will bring us to Maynooth. Tea can be obtained at the Shell-house in Carton, which contains many curios, Toby jugs, carvings, etc. In the garden are a fine avenue of o]d trees and a rosary. The Rye was the boundary between the kingdoms of Meath and Leinster, as it now is for some way between the counties of Meath and Kildare.

Internet Archive pictorialdescrip19ward, Chapter 38

Cromwell's Rock at Carnew battered by artillery

Carnew · town · Wicklow · 1649–1650

Near Carnew stands an old castle battered by Cromwell's artillery from a height overlooking the town during the Protector's march from Drogheda to Wexford; it is still known as Cromwell's Rock, and was later repaired as a rectory in the early nineteenth century.

Read the passage

About three and a half miles south-east of Shillelagh, near the quiet little market-town of Carnew, stands an old Castle, battered by Cromwell's artillery from a height overlooking the town, stUl known as Cromwell's Rock, during the Protector's march from Drogheda to Wexford. Early last century it was repaired and converted into a rectory.
Arklow to Rosslare.

Internet Archive pictorialdescrip19ward, Chapter 80

Edward Bruce defeated at Dundalk

Dundalk · town · Louth · 1315

Edward Bruce descended on Ireland in 1315, was joined by Ulster chieftains, defeated English viceroy armies, and marched through the island burning and slaying. The barons collected, surprised him at Dundalk, and utterly defeated him.

Read the passage

In 1315 Edward Bruce descended on Ireland, Being joined by the Ulster chieftains, he defeated army after army of the English viceroys, and then marched through the island, burning, slaying and laying waste. Then the barons collected, surprised him at Dundalk, and utterly defeated him. For a while it seemed as though the country had almost thrown off the English yoke. England simplified matters by forming the five counties around Dublin which remained faithful into the " Pale," and calling everyone outside this the " King's Irish enemies " ; she then left to private adventure what, if done at all, should have been done by the Government, and endeavoured, by passing severe laws upon the Irish, to procure submission. Anyone was at liberty to seize the property of the Irish if he could get it and keep it ; war was inculcated as a binding duty ; marriage with, or fosterage by, the Irish was punishable by death ; no Irishman could plead in an English court (and there were no others !) ; and " killing an Irishman was reckoned no crime."
With the reign of Henry VIII came a measure of quietness. The power of the Kildare Geraldines who dominated the land, and of the other barons, was broken, and English supremacy was re-established ; but then came the first religious trouble — the dissolution of the monasteries, the homes of learning and culture.

Internet Archive pictorialdescrip19ward, Chapter 20

Excavations at Tara seeking the Ark of the Covenant

near Tara · hill or hills · Meath

At the Hill of Tara, once the capital of Ireland and residence of ancient kings, excavations were carried on in the hope of discovering the Ark of the Covenant, though no traces of its past grandeur remain.

Read the passage

From the picturesque ruined tower the view is charming. Some ten miles distant may be seen the Hill of Tara, once the capital of Ireland and the residence of the kings in ancient times. No traces of its past grandeur remain. Excavations were carried on here, in the hope of discovering the Ark of the Covenant ! Parallel mounds with depressions for entrances mark the boundaries of Tara's famous banqueting Hall. There are left many raths or mounds on which the principal buildings stood. The largest is oval, some 350 feet long, and encircled by a double earthwork. There are also two pillar stones, one of which is supposed to be the real Lia Fail, or Stone of Destiny ; but the structures of those days were probably only of wattle, and have perished.
It is a lovely three-mile walk from Beauparc (entrance just opposite the station) to Slane, which is 7 miles from Drogheda and 6 from Navan.

Internet Archive pictorialdescrip19ward, Chapter 52

Phoenix Park given to the people by Earl of Chesterfield in 1747

Phoenix Park · electoral division · Dublin · 1747

Phoenix Park originally belonged to the Knights Hospitallers, surrendered to Henry VIII, and was enclosed as a deer park in the reign of Charles II. It was given to the people of Dublin for a public park in 1747 by the Earl of Chesterfield, who laid out the ground and erected the phoenix pillar.

Read the passage

one of the finest and most beautiful. The name is a corruption of the Irish word for a spring of running or clear water, Fionn-uisge. The Park originally belonged to the Knights Hospitallers. They surrendered it to Henry VIII, and it was enclosed as a deer park in the reign of Charles II. It was given to the people of Dublin for a public park in 1747 by the Earl of Chesterfield, Lord Lieutenant, who laid the ground out in an ornamental manner and erected the pillar, 30 feet high, with its imaginary phoenix rising out of flames, which stands at the intersection of four of the main avenues. A great part of the Park is beautifully wooded, although a heavy gale in February, 1903, destroyed thousands of trees. Of the splendid rows of elms in the main avenue, hardly any were left, and nearly two thousand of the beautiful old hawthorns were blown down. The deer are very tame.
The great extent of the Park may be realized when it is known that, besides the large tracts open to the public, the People's Park, the cricket and polo grounds, extensive review grounds, etc., it also contains the Viceregal Lodge and grounds, the residences of the Chief and of the Under-Secretary for Ireland, and of the Lord Lieutenant's Secretary, a large Military School for the sons of soldiers, the Zoological Gardens, a Military Hospital, the offices of the Ordnance Survey and an immense depot and barracks of the Royal Irish Constabulary. The last-named is near the North Circular Road entrance.

Internet Archive pictorialdescrip19ward, Chapter 37

As the companion tells it

As you come along through Phoenix Park, you are passing through one of the finest public parks in Dublin. The name comes from the Irish Fionn-uisge, meaning a spring of clear running water. The land originally belonged to the Knights Hospitallers. They surrendered it to Henry the Eighth, and later, in the reign of Charles the Second, it was enclosed as a deer park. In 1747 the Earl of Chesterfield, then Lord Lieutenant, gave it to the people of Dublin as a public park. He had the ground laid out in an ornamental manner and put up a pillar thirty feet high, topped with an imaginary phoenix rising out of flames, standing where four of the main avenues meet. A great part of the park is beautifully wooded, though a heavy gale in February 1903 destroyed thousands of trees. Of the splendid rows of elms in the main avenue, hardly any were left, and nearly two thousand of the old hawthorns were blown down. The deer are very tame. The park is vast. Beyond the large tracts open to the public, the People's Park, the cricket and polo grounds and the review grounds, it holds the Viceregal Lodge and grounds, the residences of the Chief Secretary and the Under-Secretary for Ireland, and of the Lord Lieutenant's Secretary, a large military school for the sons of soldiers, the Zoological Gardens, a military hospital, the offices of the Ordnance Survey, and a great depot and barracks of the Royal Irish Constabulary near the North Circular Road entrance.

Poynings' Act framed at Drogheda

Drogheda · town · Louth · 1490–1499

The notorious Poynings' Act, subordinating the Irish Parliament to a mere registration body for English laws, was framed at Drogheda by Lord-Deputy Poynings at the end of the fifteenth century.

Read the passage

The name Drogheda means " the bridge of the ford." Since the beginning of the tenth century, when it was one of the principal strongholds of the Danes, it has had more than its share of warfare. It was a frequent battle-ground during the wars between the Irish and the barons of the Pale, and has been taken and retaken times without number. It was at Drogheda that the notorious Poynings Act, making the Irish Parliament a mere " Registration Court " of laws passed in England, was framed at the end of the fifteenth century by Lord-Deputy Poynings. The deepest tinge to its crimsoned page was given by Cromwell, who, having landed in Dublin with thirteen thousand men, proceeded straight to Drogheda, then garrisoned by the Royalist army, and summoned it to surrender. Having received a defiant answer, he forthwith battered its walls with his heavy artillery till breaches appeared, carried the town by a tremendous assault, and put nearly every man of the garrison, and many of the inhabitants, to the sword. Of the strong walls of the abbey and the convent which he levelled only fragments remain. Besides these fragments, St. Lawrence's Gate and a part of St. Mary's Abbey still exist, in ruins.
Drogheda, which occupies both of the river banks, would be in the counties of Meath and Louth were it not that Henry IV raised it and the surrounding district into a separate county, which has its separate assize court and other privileges, with the exception of representation in the House ; but this has since been modified by the Local Government Act of 1898.

Internet Archive pictorialdescrip19ward, Chapter 50

As the companion tells it

Drogheda means the bridge of the ford, and since the 900s when it was one of the principal Danish strongholds it has had more than its share of warfare. It was here that the notorious Poynings' Act was framed at the end of the 1400s by Lord-Deputy Poynings, reducing the Irish Parliament to a mere registration court for laws passed in England. The town was a frequent battleground between the Irish and the barons of the Pale, taken and retaken times without number. The deepest tinge to its crimsoned page came from Cromwell, who having landed in Dublin with 13000 men proceeded straight to Drogheda, then garrisoned by the Royalist army, and summoned it to surrender. Receiving a defiant answer, he battered the walls with heavy artillery till breaches appeared, carried the town by assault, and put nearly every man of the garrison and many inhabitants to the sword. Of the strong walls of the abbey and convent he levelled, only fragments remain. St. Lawrence's Gate and a part of St. Mary's Abbey still stand in ruins. The town occupies both banks of the river. Henry 4 raised it and the surrounding district into a separate county with its own assize court, though that was later modified by the Local Government Act of 1898.

Royal Hospital Kilmainham built on the priory site

Kilmainham · townland · Dublin · 1680

The Royal Hospital for Ancient and Maimed Soldiers was erected in 1680 on the site of the dissolved Priory of Knights Templars and Hospitallers at Kilmainham, designed by Sir Christopher Wren.

Read the passage

Kilmainham is in the immediate neighbourhood of Kingsbridge Railway Terminus, and is reached by the Inchicore tram from College Green. It lies two miles west of the General Post Office. Brian Boru encamped here prior to the battle of Clontarf, and the Abbey of Kilmaignend (as the name was anciently spelt) was one of the most important of its kind in Ireland. " Here the dissolute and discontented Dermot MacMurrough assembled the first importation of his Welsh adventurers . . . and here the stern Strongbow founded that military monastery whose priors were influential lords of the Irish Parliamient and frequently the governors and chancellors of the island " {D' Alton). The Priory of Knights Templars flourished until the suppression of the order in 1309, when the Hospitallers estabUshed themselves in their place. It finally fell, with similar institutions, in the great dissolution of the monasteries by Henry VIII, and in 1680 the Royal Hospital for Ancient and Maimed Soldiers was erected on its site from designs by Sir Christopher Wren. The Hospital cost some £2^,559. The entrance is surmounted by a clock turret and spire. Concerts are frequently held in the beautiful hall, which has some fine oak wainscotting and a collection of armour. Service is held in the Chapel at 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. on Sundays. The Hospital is the official residence of the Commander of the Forces, and is the headquarters of the army in Ireland. The grounds of this " Irish Chelsea " are well-kept and park-like. Richmond Barracks, the disused Gaol and Courthouse, the Island Bridge Barracks, the South Dublin Union, and Swift's and Steeven's Hospitals are all in the neighbourhood.

Internet Archive pictorialdescrip19ward, Chapter 44

Brian Boru's encampment at Kilmainham before Clontarf

Kilmainham · townland · Dublin · 1014

Brian Boru encamped at Kilmainham prior to the battle of Clontarf, and the Abbey of Kilmaignend was one of the most important of its kind in Ireland.

Read the passage

Kilmainham is in the immediate neighbourhood of Kingsbridge Railway Terminus, and is reached by the Inchicore tram from College Green. It lies two miles west of the General Post Office. Brian Boru encamped here prior to the battle of Clontarf, and the Abbey of Kilmaignend (as the name was anciently spelt) was one of the most important of its kind in Ireland. " Here the dissolute and discontented Dermot MacMurrough assembled the first importation of his Welsh adventurers . . . and here the stern Strongbow founded that military monastery whose priors were influential lords of the Irish Parliamient and frequently the governors and chancellors of the island " {D' Alton). The Priory of Knights Templars flourished until the suppression of the order in 1309, when the Hospitallers estabUshed themselves in their place. It finally fell, with similar institutions, in the great dissolution of the monasteries by Henry VIII, and in 1680 the Royal Hospital for Ancient and Maimed Soldiers was erected on its site from designs by Sir Christopher Wren. The Hospital cost some £2^,559. The entrance is surmounted by a clock turret and spire. Concerts are frequently held in the beautiful hall, which has some fine oak wainscotting and a collection of armour. Service is held in the Chapel at 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. on Sundays. The Hospital is the official residence of the Commander of the Forces, and is the headquarters of the army in Ireland. The grounds of this " Irish Chelsea " are well-kept and park-like. Richmond Barracks, the disused Gaol and Courthouse, the Island Bridge Barracks, the South Dublin Union, and Swift's and Steeven's Hospitals are all in the neighbourhood.

Internet Archive pictorialdescrip19ward, Chapter 44

Clondalkin Round Tower survives Powder Mill explosion

near Clondalkin · town · Dublin · 1787

Clondalkin's ancient Round Tower, probably ninth century, is described as nearly perfect and about eighty-four feet high. In 1787 the nearby Powder Mills exploded with two hundred and sixty barrels, shaking Dublin, yet not a stone of the tower was displaced.

Read the passage

■which is of interest as containing the nearest ancient Round Tower to Dublin. This structure, probably dating from the ninth century, has no doubt withstood many a siege by the Danes, who sacked the contemporary monastery. It is about eighty-four feet high and quite perfect. The door is fifteen feet from the ground, twelve feet of this height being solid masonry. At the base the tower is forty-five feet in circumference, and the walls are three feet thick. About two-thirds up the interior diameter suddenly narrows. The top is finished with the usual conical cap. This is one of the few round towers that can be ascended. In 1787 the Clondalkin Powder Mills, containing not less than two hundred and sixty barrels, were accidentally blown up, but though the shock was felt through the metropolis, not a stone of the Round Tower was displaced.
Clondalkin was the scene of the famous duel between Daniel O'Connell and D'Esterre, in which the latter was shot dead, while the moral shock to O'Connell coloured the whole of his after-life, and gave him a horror of bloodshed.

Internet Archive pictorialdescrip19ward, Chapter 45

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Clondalkin, the ancient Round Tower here is probably ninth century and stands about eighty-four feet high, still quite perfect. Its door is fifteen feet from the ground, with twelve feet of solid masonry below it. The base is forty-five feet round, the walls three feet thick, and about two-thirds up the interior suddenly narrows before the usual conical cap. It is one of the few round towers that can be ascended. In 1787 the Clondalkin Powder Mills, holding not less than 260 barrels, were accidentally blown up. The shock was felt through the metropolis of Dublin, yet not a stone of the tower was displaced. Clondalkin was also the scene of the famous duel between Daniel O'Connell and D'Esterre, in which D'Esterre was shot dead. The moral shock to O'Connell coloured the whole of his after-life and gave him a horror of bloodshed.

Drogheda: Danish stronghold and battleground of the Pale

Drogheda · town · Louth · 900–1500

Drogheda has been a battle-ground since the tenth century when it was a principal Danish stronghold, and it was fought over repeatedly during wars between the Irish and the barons of the Pale.

Read the passage

The name Drogheda means " the bridge of the ford." Since the beginning of the tenth century, when it was one of the principal strongholds of the Danes, it has had more than its share of warfare. It was a frequent battle-ground during the wars between the Irish and the barons of the Pale, and has been taken and retaken times without number. It was at Drogheda that the notorious Poynings Act, making the Irish Parliament a mere " Registration Court " of laws passed in England, was framed at the end of the fifteenth century by Lord-Deputy Poynings. The deepest tinge to its crimsoned page was given by Cromwell, who, having landed in Dublin with thirteen thousand men, proceeded straight to Drogheda, then garrisoned by the Royalist army, and summoned it to surrender. Having received a defiant answer, he forthwith battered its walls with his heavy artillery till breaches appeared, carried the town by a tremendous assault, and put nearly every man of the garrison, and many of the inhabitants, to the sword. Of the strong walls of the abbey and the convent which he levelled only fragments remain. Besides these fragments, St. Lawrence's Gate and a part of St. Mary's Abbey still exist, in ruins.
Drogheda, which occupies both of the river banks, would be in the counties of Meath and Louth were it not that Henry IV raised it and the surrounding district into a separate county, which has its separate assize court and other privileges, with the exception of representation in the House ; but this has since been modified by the Local Government Act of 1898.

Internet Archive pictorialdescrip19ward, Chapter 50

As the companion tells it

You are coming through Drogheda, a town on both banks of the river. Its name means the bridge of the ford. Since the beginning of the tenth century, when it was one of the principal strongholds of the Danes, it has had more than its share of warfare. It was a frequent battleground during the wars between the Irish and the barons of the Pale, and has been taken and retaken times without number. It was here that the Poynings Act, making the Irish Parliament a mere registration court of laws passed in England, was framed at the end of the fifteenth century by Lord-Deputy Poynings. The deepest tinge to its crimsoned page was given by Cromwell, who landed in Dublin with 13,000 men and proceeded straight to Drogheda, then garrisoned by the Royalist army, and summoned it to surrender. Having received a defiant answer, he battered its walls with his heavy artillery till breaches appeared, carried the town by a tremendous assault, and put nearly every man of the garrison, and many of the inhabitants, to the sword. Of the strong walls of the abbey and the convent which he levelled, only fragments remain. Besides these fragments, St Lawrence's Gate and a part of St Mary's Abbey still exist, in ruins. Drogheda would be in the counties of Meath and Louth were it not that Henry the Fourth raised it and the surrounding district into a separate county, with its separate assize court and other privileges, with the exception of representation in the House. This has since been modified by the Local Government Act of 1898.

Enniscorthy Castle granted to Spenser

Enniscorthy · townland · Wexford · 1100–1199

The old twelfth-century Castle of Enniscorthy, later restored and inhabited, was granted to the poet Spenser by Queen Elizabeth.

Read the passage

Enniscorthy comes next, a hilly town. The old Castle, built in the twelfth century, has been restored and is now inhabited. It was granted to the poet Spenser by Queen Elizabeth. Just outside the town is Vinegar Hill, of ominous fame, for here the rebels of 1798 were defeated and many of them put to death in the tower or windmill, still standing on the hill. There is a wide view from here. The memorial statues erected in Enniscorthy and Wexford to the memory of those who fell in the rebellion of 1798 are extraordinarily vigorous and well-executed. Near Enniscorthy is an immense Lunatic Asylum.
A branch line to the west leads to the charmingly-situated little town of New Ross, and thence to Waterford. The main line continues southward. Before reaching Wexford there is a picturesque view at Ferrycarrig, where the river narrows ; high on one bank stands a monument in the form of a Round Tower to those who fell in the Crimean War, and on the other side are the remains of an ancient fortress, the first Norman castle built in Ireland. Thence it is only a short run to the ancient town of —

Internet Archive pictorialdescrip19ward, Chapter 80

Foundation of St. Thomas's Abbey and anti-Irish exclusion laws

near The Liberties · street · Dublin · 1177

The Abbey of St. Thomas was founded in 1177 and named after Thomas-a-Becket. Under royal patronage it was strongly anti-Irish, and laws were passed excluding the Irish from admission to it or any religious house used by the English.

Read the passage

Part of the district around St. Patrick's Cathedral is still known as " The Liberties," a name dating from many centuries back. The Abbey of St. Thomas — or the church that formed its nucleus — was founded in 11 77 and named after Thomas-a-Becket, then recently canonized. This Abbey was under the direct rule, patronage, and special favour of successive English kings, but was very anti-Irish, so much so that at different periods laws were passed excluding the Irish from admission to this or to any religious house, cathedral, or church used by the English,
The property of St. Thomas's Abbey rapidly increased, and as early as 11 80 it appears to have included estates in the south of Ireland and also that of Kilruddery, near Bray, bounded (as it still is) by the King's highway " Le Windgates " {see p. 134). Many parish churches in Dublin were also annexed, and by a special charter of 1305 the abbot was granted judicial powers, and held his own court (hence the name, still used, Thomas Court). The estate was exempt from the jurisdiction of the Mayor, and owing to its special privileges was known as St. Thomas's Liberty or " the Liberty.'^ As recently as 1836 there were no fewer than five liberties in Dublin, though the privileges had for the most part long fallen into disuse. The Abbots of St. Thomas became increasingly powerful, and often held the highest Government appointments in Ireland. Kilruddery was used as their place of recreation. Their sylvan theatre, fishponds, bowling green, etc., may still be seen there, and the labyrinth also till lately. The wealth and fame of the Abbey led to its suppression in 1539 by Henry VIII, who granted part of the estate to Sir W. Brabazon, a Government official. The Abbey was for some years the town residence of the Brabazon family and subsequently of their descendants, the Earls of Heath, still the ground landlords of this district and the owners of Kilruddery. The privileges remained, though transferred to the Brabazon family, hence the name of this district, " the Liberties," is still retained.

Internet Archive pictorialdescrip19ward, Chapter 29

As the companion tells it

Somewhere about The Liberties, you are near the ground where the Abbey of St. Thomas once stood. It was founded in 1177 and named after Thomas-a-Becket, who had been recently canonized. The abbey was under the direct rule, patronage, and special favour of successive English kings, and it was strongly anti-Irish. At different periods, laws were passed excluding the Irish from admission to this abbey or to any religious house, cathedral, or church used by the English. The property of St. Thomas's Abbey grew quickly. It came to include estates in the south of Ireland and that of Kilruddery, near Bray, bounded by the King's highway called Le Windgates. Many parish churches in Dublin were also annexed. By a special charter of 1305, the abbot was granted judicial powers and held his own court, which gave the name Thomas Court, still used. The estate was exempt from the jurisdiction of the Mayor, and owing to its special privileges it was known as St. Thomas's Liberty, or the Liberty. As recently as 1836, there were five liberties in Dublin, though the privileges had mostly fallen into disuse. The abbots became increasingly powerful and often held the highest Government appointments in Ireland. Kilruddery was their place of recreation, with a sylvan theatre, fishponds, bowling green, and labyrinth that could still be seen. The wealth and fame of the abbey led to its suppression in 1539 by Henry VIII, who granted part of the estate to Sir W. Brabazon. The abbey became the town residence of the Brabazon family and then of their descendants, the Earls of Heath, still the ground landlords of this district and owners of Kilruddery. The privileges remained with the Brabazon family, and so the name the Liberties is still retained.

Gandon's witty reply on the Corinthian order

Westmoreland Street · street · Dublin · 1785

During the 1785 addition of the East Front by architect James Gandon, a passerby questioned the incongruous Corinthian capitals, prompting Gandon's famous quip about the 'order of the House of Lords.'

Read the passage

It was originally built for the Irish Parliament Houses, which were begun in 1729, in the reign of George II, and finished in 1739, costing ;^40,ooo. The original architect was Pearce. In 1785 the Lords wished for an enlargement, and the East Front, in Westmoreland Street, was added. Six lofty Corinthian columns support the pediment, on the apex and angles of which are emblematic figures of Fortitude, Justice and Liberty, the whole forming one of the most perfect specimens of Corinthian architecture in the kingdom. The columns of the portico being Corinthian, there is incongruity, the rest of the building being of the Ionic order. The story goes that a man passing while the Corinthian capitals were being fixed asked the architect, James Gandon, " What order is that ? " " Oh," said Gandon, " a very substantial order ; the order of the House of Lords." The addition cost ;^25,ooo.
In 1787 an extension of the House of Commons was necessary, and the West Front, with a portico of four Ionic columns, was added. This cost nearly ^^2 6,000, and other expenses incurred brought up the total cost to ;i^95,ooo.

Internet Archive pictorialdescrip19ward, Chapter 24

As the companion tells it

Along here, the East Front of the old Parliament House was added in 1785, when the Lords wanted more room. The architect James Gandon put up six lofty Corinthian columns to support a pediment crowned with figures of Fortitude, Justice and Liberty. The rest of the building was Ionic, so the Corinthian capitals looked odd to at least one passer-by. The story goes that a man asked Gandon what order that was. Gandon answered, "a very substantial order; the order of the House of Lords." The addition cost 25,000 pounds. Two years later, in 1787, the Commons needed more space too, and a West Front with four Ionic columns went up, costing nearly 26,000 pounds. The total spent on the whole building came to 195,000 pounds.

Glencree Reformatory's military past and road built after 1798

near Glencree · valley · Wicklow · 1798–1859

Glencree Reformatory was formerly used as military barracks, with the road leading to it built after the 1798 rising to prevent rebels using the Wicklow mountain fastnesses; the buildings were converted to their present use as a reformatory in 1859.

Read the passage

At the top of the hill turn and look to the left, down a great desolate glen, the Glencree Valley, miles long, between Maulin and Tomduff and Knockree and many another barren hill, to Glencree Reformatory, over 1,400 feet above sea-level, south of which are the mountain tarns of Upper and Lower Lough Bray. TiU about eighty years ago the Reformatory was used as military barracks ; the road leading to it was made after the rising of 1798, to prevent any succeeding rebels utihzing the fastnesses of the Wicklow mountains, but in 1859 the buildings were put to their present use.
Continuing along the main road, we pass the back entrance to Charleville, and note a steep road on the right; this was formerly the main coach road- to Glendalough, and is the best way to lovely Lough Tay (Luggela). On the left is a pretty road leading to Tinnahinch ; passing this, we cross a little glen, and then bearing to the left enter the Rocky Valley, a wild, narrow glen whose sides, strewn with rocks, are somewhat disfigured by quarrying. The high cone of the Great Sugar Loaf lies on the right, and there are several good points from which to make the ascent. The main road leading up the Sugar Loaf will be seen ascending from the Rocky Valley, almost parallel with the road by which we entered the valley. This is the main road from Bray on to Roundwood Reservoir

Internet Archive pictorialdescrip19ward, Chapter 65

Grave of Parnell at Glasnevin

Glasnevin · townland · Dublin

The grave of Parnell, visited by great crowds on the anniversary of his death, lies opposite the mortuary chapel door and is unmarked by any tombstone, surrounded by iron railings and covered with wreaths.

Read the passage

The Grave of Parnell, which, on the anniversary of his death, is visited by great crowds, lies opposite the door of the mortuary chapel. No tombstone has been erected. It is surrounded by iron railings, and almost covered by artificial wreaths and crosses. Near Parnell's grave is a fine statue to Barry Sullivan, the tragedian.
To reach Curran 's Tomb, a plain sarcophagus of granite,

Internet Archive pictorialdescrip19ward, Chapter 40

As the companion tells it

Close to Glasnevin, somewhere around here, is the grave of Parnell. It lies opposite the door of the mortuary chapel, with no tombstone erected, surrounded by iron railings and almost covered with artificial wreaths and crosses. On the anniversary of his death it is visited by great crowds. Near Parnell's grave stands a fine statue to Barry Sullivan, the tragedian.

Howth Castle armorial hall and Sir Armoricus Tristram's sword

Howth · townland · Dublin · 1564

Howth Castle, built in 1564 by Christopher, twentieth lord of Howth, contains the Armorial Hall with relics including the sword of Sir Armoricus Tristram, first lord of Howth. His surname St. Lawrence was acquired after his defeat of Danes at Howth Hill on a St. Lawrence's Day during the Anglo-Norman invasion.

Read the passage

Howth Castle, formerly the seat of the Earl of Howth (the title is now extinct), is a fine baronial mansion, erected in 1564 by Christopher, twentieth lord of Howth, and incorporating the earlier fortress. The square towers have the stepped battlements noticeable in the tower of St. Patrick's Cathedral and elsewhere, and which are almost peculiar to Ireland. The great feature of the mansion is the Armorial Hall, a fine apartment, with many relics of antiquity. Here is the sword of Sir Armoricus Tristram, first lord of Howth, whose surname of St. Lawrence was acquired because of his great defeat of some Danes at Howth Hill on a St. Lawrence's Day during the Anglo-Norman invasion ; it is a tremendous two-handed weapon with a hilt nearly two feet long. Also here are the bells from the old abbey, a full-length portrait of Dean Swift, several fine paintings, and many old pieces of armour and weapons. In one of the other chambers is a picture depicting a quaint incident connected with the family. In 1575 Grace O'Malley, or Crania Waile, a chieftainess from the west coast, proceeded to London to pay homage to Queen Elizabeth. Here she distinguished herself by
Dublin (g)

Internet Archive pictorialdescrip19ward, Chapter 46

Lucan Castle and Sarsfield connection

near Lucan · town · Dublin · 1220

Lucan was the site of one of the castles of the Pale, built by Richard de Peche; in the seventeenth century the castle and demesne became the property of Patrick Sarsfield, James II's general, whose cenotaph stands in the Vesey demesne.

Read the passage

The journey occupies nearly an hour. The town is prettily situated in a wooded vale on the south side of the Liffey, and contains a church with tower and spire, and a onearched stone bridge, designed by Brunei, over the river. Lucan was the site of one of the castles of the Pale, originally built by Richard de Peche. Richard's descendant, Waryn, founded a monastery to St. Catherine in 1220. In the seventeenth century the castle and demesne became the property of Patrick Sarsfield, James II 's celebrated general, a cenotaph to whom stands in the Vesey demesne. But Lucan is chiefly noted for its sulphur spas, which of late years have become exceedingly popular. This is a great hunting district. Trout and salmon fishing can also be had. There is a good nine-hole golf course near the hotel and about two miles away is the Hermitage i8-hole course. The chief meets of the Meath and Kildare foxhounds and the Ward Union staghounds are within reach of the hotel. The beautiful park of the Vesey demesne (containing among other fine trees some magnificent beeches) is open to the public, and, entering it by the Spa, we can walk up the river for about
LEIXLIP—NEW BRIDGE 87

Internet Archive pictorialdescrip19ward, Chapter 38

As the companion tells it

You're coming through Lucan, a town in a wooded vale on the south side of the Liffey, with a church that has a tower and spire, and a one-arched stone bridge over the river designed by Brunei. Lucan was the site of one of the castles of the Pale, originally built by Richard de Peche. Richard's descendant, Waryn, founded a monastery to St. Catherine in 1220. In the seventeenth century the castle and demesne became the property of Patrick Sarsfield, James the Second's celebrated general. A cenotaph to Sarsfield stands in the Vesey demesne. The beautiful park of the Vesey demesne, with its magnificent beeches among other fine trees, is open to the public, and entering it by the Spa you can walk up the river. Lucan is also noted for its sulphur spas, which have become exceedingly popular in recent years. The country around is a great hunting district, with trout and salmon fishing as well.

Marshal Schomberg slain at the Boyne obelisk site

Oldbridge · townland · Meath · 1690

The obelisk near the battlefield marks the spot where Marshal Schomberg was slain while attempting to force a passage across the river during the Battle of the Boyne.

Read the passage

was fought about three miles to the west of Drogheda, on the banks of the river. To reach the site pass through West Street and take the next road to the left. The obehsk marks the spot where brave old Marshal Schomberg was slain.

Internet Archive pictorialdescrip19ward, Chapter 50

As the companion tells it

Somewhere around here, at Oldbridge, the Battle of the Boyne was fought in 1690, about three miles west of Drogheda on the banks of the river. An obelisk marks the spot where brave old Marshal Schomberg was slain, attempting to force a passage across the river.

Meeting of the Waters and Moore's Tree

Meeting of the Waters · population centre · Wicklow

The Meeting of the Waters, immortalised by Thomas Moore's verses, is marked by Meeting Bridge and a spot known as Moore's Tree where the poet reputedly sat. Moore himself later noted the scene under Castle Howard likely inspired his song, rather than either 'meeting' spot.

Read the passage

The bridge is commonly called Meeting Bridge ; the green point below it, with the tree, is said to be the spot on which Moore often sat to enjoy the scene. This tree, popularly known as Moore's Tree, is now but a bare, withered stump. In his letters, Moore, when asked whether his song referred to this, " The First Meeting," or to the " Meeting " at Woodenbridge, says, " The fact is, I wrote the song at neither place, though I believe the scene under Castle Howard was the one that suggested it to me."
Crossing the Meeting Bridge (the road on the right is that to Drumgoff and Glenmalure), we take the road down the right side of the " sweet Vale of Ovoca,'* with the united waters of the Avonmore and Avonbeg on the left, and the wooded slopes of the banks on both sides. The exquisite sweetness of the Vale in Moore's time is now considerably marred in places by heaps of debris and the plant of the Ballymurtagh copper mines and some ochre and sulphur works, but it is still a very charming scene.

Internet Archive pictorialdescrip19ward, Chapter 78

As the companion tells it

Coming up near Meeting of the Waters in Wicklow. The bridge here is called Meeting Bridge. Below it there is a green point with a tree, said to be the spot where Thomas Moore often sat to enjoy the scene. That tree is known as Moore's Tree, though it is now a bare, withered stump. In his letters, when asked whether his song referred to this place or to the Meeting at Woodenbridge, Moore said, "The fact is, I wrote the song at neither place, though I believe the scene under Castle Howard was the one that suggested it to me." Crossing Meeting Bridge, the road to the right goes to Drumgoff and Glenmalure. The road runs down the sweet Vale of Ovoca, with the united waters of the Avonmore and Avonbeg on one side and wooded slopes on both banks. The vale's sweetness in Moore's time is now marred in places by heaps of debris and the plant of the Ballymurtagh copper mines, and some ochre and sulphur works, but it is still a very charming scene.

Mellifont Abbey converted into a castle after Dissolution

Mellifont · townland · Louth · 1142

Founded in 1142 by Donough Mac Corvoill for Cistercian monks sent from Clairvaux, Mellifont Abbey was converted into a castle by Lord Moore after the Dissolution of the Monasteries.

Read the passage

1 1 42 by Donough Mac Corvoill or Carrol, and was the home of a colony of Cistercian monks, sent over by St. Bernard from Clairvaux. After the Dissolution of the Monasteries, the Abbey was converted into a castle by Lord Moore, an ancestor of the Marquis of Drogheda, to whom it was granted. The ruins consist chiefly of an octagonal baptistery (usually so called), probably the oldest part and in the early roundarched style ; St. Bernard's Chapel (now, however, believed to be the Chapter House) in the Pointed style ; and the foundations of the old Church of the Monastery, which have lately been unearthed by the Board of Works and which are found to extend into an adjoining garden. Here, at the chancel end, has been found the tomb of Devorgilla, the Irish Helen, whose flight with Mac Murrough first led the Anglo-Normans to Ireland. She took refuge and lived here. The ruins are under the care of the Board of Works.
Another circular mound and the ruins of a thirteenthcentury church may be seen in the field above the Abbey.

Internet Archive pictorialdescrip19ward, Chapter 51

North side of Dublin's fine houses fallen into tenement slums

North Great George's Street · street · Dublin

The north side of Dublin, once the most fashionable residential quarter with fine interiors including ceilings painted by Angelica Kauffmann, is no longer fashionable; many houses are now let out as tenements and have fallen into sad neglect, forming the worst and most congested slums.

Read the passage

This north side of Dublin, part of which we have just traversed, was long the most fashionable residential quarter, and the interiors of the houses, especially those in North Great George's Street, which runs parallel to the east side of Rutland Square, are very fine. The rooms are large and lofty, often with extremely beautiful inlaid or carved chimney-pieces, and with ceilings painted by Angelica KaufEmann or other well-known artists of the eighteenth century. No longer a fashionable quarter, many of the houses on the north side are now, however, let out as tenements, and have fallen into sad neglect and disrepair. Such houses, though outwardly fairly respectable, form the worst and most congested slums of all. Happily, the Georgian Society, by its valuable publications, is taking steps to preserve for future generations the memory of these rich and beautiful interiors. The Alexandra College Co. Tenements, working (on a small scale) on Miss Octavia Hill's lines, has bought up some of these old houses, put them into good repair, and then let them out. The rents are collected weekly by members of the GuHd.
Dublin (/)

Internet Archive pictorialdescrip19ward, Chapter 35

As the companion tells it

Along here on North Great George's Street you can see houses that were once the height of Dublin fashion. The rooms are large and lofty, with carved or inlaid chimney-pieces and ceilings painted by Angelica Kauffmann and other well-known artists of the 18th century. But this north side of the city is no longer fashionable. Many of the houses have been let out as tenements and have fallen into sad neglect and disrepair. Outwardly they still look fairly respectable, but they form the worst and most congested slums of all. The Georgian Society is working to preserve the memory of these rich and beautiful interiors through its publications. The Alexandra College Co. Tenements, working on the lines of Miss Octavia Hill, has bought up some of these old houses, put them into good repair, and lets them out, with rents collected weekly by members of the Guild.

Swords repeatedly burnt and plundered by the Danes

Swords · town · Dublin · 993–1166

Swords, the oldest town in County Dublin, was founded by St. Columba around 560. It was formerly known as Sord-Columbkill and was burnt and plundered by the Danes no fewer than ten times between 993 and 1166.

Read the passage

The Belfry, which now forms part of the modern church, though quite separate from it, dates from the fourteenth century, and is the only remaining part of the once grand monastery of Swords. A short distance away are the picturesque ruins of the Archiepiscopal Palace (now a nursery garden), surrounded by embattled walls with towers at their angles. These remains sufficiently establish the claim of Swords to have been at one time a very important place. Swords is the oldest town in the county, and until 1327 the Archbishops of Dublin lived here — after that date at Tallaght. The town was founded by St. Columba. The present village is miserable enough. The name Swords means pure, from the well near which the ancient church was built about 560. The place was formerly known as Sord-Columbkill, and it is recorded that it was burnt and plundered by the Danes no fewer than ten times between 993 and 1 1 66.
The visitor who returns to Dublin by road from Swords or Malahide will have an opportunity of visiting the Holy Well of St. Wereburghe, a seventh-century saint, daughter of the King of Mercia, About four miles south of Malahide is the quaint httle Church of St. Doulough, a mediaeval building on an ancient foundation. This church was built by the Danes ; it does not stand due east and west. It has a double stone roof (an Irish architectural feature), a crypt with the saint's tomb, a hermit's cell in the roof, and a penitential bed in the thickness of the wall. Near the church is the Holy Well of the Blessed Virgin, under a stone cone ; and in the roadway are the stone basement and socket of an ancient Cross. Crosses were used in ancient times to mark out church lands ; several may still be seen.

Internet Archive pictorialdescrip19ward, Chapter 49

Coolattin seized from the O'Byrnes by Strafford

Coolattin · townland · Wicklow

The demesne of Coolattin was wrested by Wentworth, Earl Strafford, from the O'Byrnes by a legal quibble, and afterwards passed into the hands of an ancestor of Earl Fitzwilliam.

Read the passage

Leaving Aughrim the line follows the valley of the Derry to Ballinglen (nine miles), with Croghan Kinshela (1,987 ft.) on the left. At the pleasant little market-town of Tinahely we reach the Shillelagh stream. Near the town, which was rebuilt after '98, are the remains of a mansion of Wentworth, Earl Strafford. Following the stream for four and a half miles, we have the fine demesne of Coolattin on the left ; it was wrested by Strafford by a legal quibble from the O' Byrnes, and afterwards passed into the hands of an ancestor of Earl Fitzwilliam. The mansion is not interesting, but it stands in a park of about four hundred acres, tastefully laid out and planted with fine forest trees. [Public admitted. Car 4s.) Then we reach the little town of Shillelagh, which gave its name to the famous " shtick " of Irishmen, shillelagh oak forests having formerly existed in perfection here. Turlogh, Kingof Leinster, made William Rufus a present of some of this exceedingly hard and durable wood for the roof of Westminster Hall, and the roof of St. Patrick's Cathedral in Dublin was also of shillelagh oak. The town is of no great extent, the principal public building being the Church, erected in 1834, in a picturesque situation, mainly at the cost of the Earl Fitzwilliam of that time.
Here the line terminates. Should a return to Dublin by a different route be desired car can be taken westward for eight miles to TuIIow, in County Carlow, the terminus of a branch of the Great Southern and Western Railway running northward through Baltinglass and Harristown, and thence via Sallins Junction to Dublin. From Harristown the Poulaphouca Waterfalls, 5 miles away (p. 155), can be visited, and the return to Dublin made by the Blessington Steam Tramway.

Internet Archive pictorialdescrip19ward, Chapter 79

Glendalough plundered by Danes and Anglo-Normans, annexed 1214

Glendalough · electoral division · Wicklow · 900–1214

For several hundred years the monastic city at Glendalough flourished, but in the tenth century it was repeatedly plundered by the Danes and in the twelfth century looted by Anglo-Normans. In 1214 it was annexed to the See of Dublin and thereafter gradually decayed into a hiding-place for outlaws.

Read the passage

perpendicular rock of great height overhangs it from above. Soon the peasants discovered the holy man, brought him simple foods, spread his fame abroad, and crowds came to visit him. They built him a little cell and an oratory. But disciples came in so fast that, at the bidding of an angel, he erected the monastery of the valley of the two lakes^ which was the parent of many others." A city soon sprang up, and a seminary was founded, whence went forth many of the most pious and learned men of the time, thus gaining for Glendalough the odour of extreme sanctity. St. Kevin died in 618, aged one hundred and twenty years. For several hundred years the citj^ flourished ; but in the tenth century it was repeatedly plundered by the Danes, and in the twelfth century it was looted by a party of Anglo-Normans. At length, in 1214, it was annexed to the See of Dublin, and from that time gradually decayed, becoming at length a hiding-place for outlaws and robbers.
According to popular legends, St. Kevin fled hither because he was beloved by a beautiful maiden, and, fearing to fall, hid himself in the cave above the lake. But with the assistance of a little dog the maiden tracked him across the mountains, and one morning when the saint awoke he found the lovely Kathleen bending over him. For the rest Moore shall teU the tale : —

Internet Archive pictorialdescrip19ward, Chapter 74

Grattan Bridge built from Abbey stones, collapse seen as ill-luck

Grattan Bridge · bridge · Dublin

The old Essex or Grattan Bridge was built almost entirely of material obtained from the suppressed St. Mary's Abbey, and its collapse some ten years later was considered a proof of the ill-luck attending the spoliation.

Read the passage

ward to Grattan Bridge and the Castle. Between this street and the next the old Abbey of St. Mary existed for some seven hundred years. Founded for Benedictine monks, about 896, presumably by the Danes, it was transferred to the Cistercians in 11 39, and under them became one of the richest in Ireland. It was suppressed by Henry VIII and its endowments confiscated, the buildings being long used as a quarry by adjacent residents. The old Essex or Grattan Bridge was built almost entirely of material obtained from it, and the collapse of the bridge some ten years later was considered a proof of the ill-luck attending the spoliation. The Annals, or " Chartularies of St. Mary's Abbey," near Dublin (as it was originally defined), have been preserved to a great extent, but of the once magnificent buildings only a few crumbling fragments, mixed with the surrounding houses, remain. The Crypt or Chapter House was long used as a wine vault. In 171 8 the corpse of a prelate in full pontificals was found in the Abbey ; this was supposed to be the body of Felix O'Ruadan, Archbishop of Tuam, who was buried in the chancel in 1238, Facing St. Mary's churchyard is the large Jervis Street Hospital, managed and nursed by the Sisters of Mercy. This hospital (rebuilt a few years ago) is one of the oldest in Dublin.
Crossing Arran Street into Pill Lane, where is the Fish and Vegetable Market, we turn to the left down Charles Street, opposite Richmond Bridge, and then to the right, along King's Inn Quay, where are the splendid buildings of the Courts of Justice called —

Internet Archive pictorialdescrip19ward, Chapter 35

As the companion tells it

Right here at Grattan Bridge, you are crossing on stones with a long and unlucky history. For some seven hundred years, St. Mary's Abbey stood nearby. It was founded for Benedictine monks about 896, presumably by the Danes, then later transferred to the Cistercians, under whom it became one of the richest monasteries in Ireland. Henry VIII suppressed it and confiscated its endowments. After that, the buildings were long used as a quarry by people living nearby. The old Essex Bridge, now called Grattan Bridge, was built almost entirely from material taken from the abbey. Some ten years later, the bridge collapsed, and people at the time saw that as proof of the ill-luck attending the spoliation. Of the once magnificent abbey buildings, only a few crumbling fragments remain, mixed in among the surrounding houses. The Annals, or Chartularies of St. Mary's Abbey, have been preserved to a great extent. The Crypt, or Chapter House, was long used as a wine vault. A corpse of a prelate in full pontificals was found in the abbey, supposed to be the body of Felix O'Ruadan, Archbishop of Tuam, who was buried in the chancel in 1238.

Huguenots introduce poplin-making to Dublin

Dublin · city · Dublin · 1693

The poplin industry, unique to Dublin, was introduced by Huguenot refugees in 1693. The material combined a silk warp with a fine wool weft and became a distinctive local craft.

Read the passage

One of the specialities of Dublin, made nowhere else in the world, is Poplin. This industry was introduced by the Huguenots in 1693, The material is made of specially pure and good silk as the warp, and very fine wool as the weft. It is characterized by fine finish and softness and interminable wear. Hand-weaving still obtains, and the trade, which some years ago had greatly fallen off owing to the caprices of fashion, has of late extended largely, thanks to the popularity of Irish poplin ties, both for ladies' and men's wear. A great improvement in quality and a striking increase in the variety of designs have led to an extensive foreign and colonial demand. Messrs. Atkinson of College Green, the leading firm in the trade, now employ nearly 400 hands in their factories. Irish frieze is made
IND USTRIES— LIBRA RIES 3 5

Internet Archive pictorialdescrip19ward

As the companion tells it

Dublin has a craft found nowhere else in the world. Huguenot refugees introduced poplin-making here in 1693, weaving a silk warp with a fine wool weft into a cloth known for its soft finish and long wear. The trade faded for a time with changes in fashion, but it came back strongly through the popularity of Irish poplin ties. Messrs. Atkinson of College Green, the leading firm, now employ nearly 400 hands in their factories.

A pictorial and descriptive guide to Dublin and the Wicklow tours ..

The stories, best first

Battle of the Boyne fought near Drogheda

Cromwell's massacre at Drogheda

Grace O'Malley's abduction of the Howth heir

Lord Edward Fitzgerald captured in Thomas Street

Assassination of Thomas Burke in Phoenix Park

Kilmainham Gaol imprisons Parnell and Land League leaders

Silken Thomas's rebellion and the fall of Maynooth Castle

Newgrange passage tomb rifled by the Danes

Cromwell's landing and slaughter in Dublin

Feagh O'Byrne holds Glenmalure and defeats Lord Grey

Silken Thomas hanged at Tyburn

St Patrick lights the Paschal fire on the Hill of Slane

The Mock Kingdom of Dalkey Island

Vinegar Hill: defeat and executions of the 1798 rebels

Battle of Clontarf, the 'Marathon of Ireland'

Grattan declares Irish Legislative Independence

Devorgilla's tomb found at Mellifont Abbey

Legend of St Kevin and Kathleen at Glendalough

O'Connell-D'Esterre duel at Clondalkin

Robert Emmet executed on Thomas Street

Siege of Londonderry holds out for William

Stephen Armitage, the Last King of Dalkey

Maud Plunket: maid, wife, and widow on the same day

Founding of Glasnevin Cemetery

Captain Boyd and Ajax seamen drowned in 1861 gale

Grave of Dermot MacMurrough at Ferns

Handel's Messiah first performed at Fishamble Street Music Hall

O'Connell Monument and Tower at Glasnevin

Site of assassination of Lord Frederick Cavendish marked by crosses

St Kevin founds the monastery of Glendalough

Green Street Courthouse tried Fenians and Phoenix Park assassins

Muredach's Cross at Monasterboice dated to 924

Avondale, once Parnell's seat, now a forestry school

Birthplace of the poet Thomas Moore in Aungier Street

Celbridge Abbey and Swift's Vanessa

Cromwell's Rock at Carnew battered by artillery

Edward Bruce defeated at Dundalk

Excavations at Tara seeking the Ark of the Covenant

Phoenix Park given to the people by Earl of Chesterfield in 1747

Poynings' Act framed at Drogheda

Royal Hospital Kilmainham built on the priory site

Brian Boru's encampment at Kilmainham before Clontarf

Clondalkin Round Tower survives Powder Mill explosion

Drogheda: Danish stronghold and battleground of the Pale

Enniscorthy Castle granted to Spenser

Foundation of St. Thomas's Abbey and anti-Irish exclusion laws

Gandon's witty reply on the Corinthian order

Glencree Reformatory's military past and road built after 1798

Grave of Parnell at Glasnevin

Howth Castle armorial hall and Sir Armoricus Tristram's sword

Lucan Castle and Sarsfield connection

Marshal Schomberg slain at the Boyne obelisk site

Meeting of the Waters and Moore's Tree

Mellifont Abbey converted into a castle after Dissolution

North side of Dublin's fine houses fallen into tenement slums

Swords repeatedly burnt and plundered by the Danes

Coolattin seized from the O'Byrnes by Strafford

Glendalough plundered by Danes and Anglo-Normans, annexed 1214

Grattan Bridge built from Abbey stones, collapse seen as ill-luck

Huguenots introduce poplin-making to Dublin