Name: Sketches in Carbery, county Cork, : its antiquities, history, legends, and topography
Author: Daniel Donovan

Waterford invasion of Sherkin Island, 1537

near Sherkin Island · townland · Cork · 1537

On 27 March 1537, a Waterford force of 400 men besieged and captured Duneloug Castle on Sherkin, overran the island with fire and sword, destroyed villages, the Franciscan Abbey, and a large mill. The fortress of Dunelong was nearly levelled, and Fineen's galley and pinnaces were captured or burnt.

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mid Butler. They anchored off Duneloug Castle (Sherkin) near the Abbey, and besieged and captured the castle, which the}r held for five days. They overran the island with fire and sword, destroyed all the villages, and almost reduced to ruins the Franciscan Abbey, and a large mill which adjoined that building. The fortress of Dunelong (the ship's castle), which was then a very strong and extensive structure, and surrounded by high imposing walls and barbicans enclosing a goodly bawn, the enclosure where the outer buildings were usually erected, was nearly levelled to the ground. Large stores of malt, barlev, and salt were taken possession of, and Fineen's chief galley of thirty oars, with about eighty pinnaces. Forty of the latter were burnt, and the remainder, with the great galley, were taken back to Waterford as trophies of war. The invading troops from "Waterford were not satisfied, however, with the destruction of property in Sherkin. They also landed on some of the neighbouring islands, which they treated in a similar manner, and to wind up the entire programme, they burnt and destroyed the town of Baltimore, establishing the precedent for the Algerine, and broke down Teigh O'Driscoll's goodly castle and baun (probably Dunashad).
Within the antriles or crypts of the ancient raths, in the subterranean chambers of the barrows or artificial tumuli, and inscribed on the edges of those peculiar pillar stones (gallauns) and cromlechs (ancient tombs), antiquarians have discovered occasionally traces of the Ogham ("oum") characters, supposed to have been the occult mode of writing known to the Druids, and the knowledge of which mysterious possession was carefully concealed from the mass of the people. It is believed that the art

Internet Archive sketchesincarber00dono, Chapter 5

O'Driscoll seizure of wine ship at Baltimore, 1537

Baltimore · town · Cork · 1537

On 20 February 1537, a ship from Lisbon laden with 100 tuns of wine took refuge near Baltimore harbour. Conoghar O'Driscoll piloted it into Baltimore, but the O'Driscolls then seized the merchants, attacked the ship, and distributed the wine among their neighbours.

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" Ou the 20th February, 1537, four ships from Lisbon, with a cargo of wine on board, consigned to the Waterford merchants, were driven by stress of weather to Cape Clear, Baltimore, and the Old Head of Kinsale. One of the ships, the " Santa Maria De Soci," laden with 100 tuns of wine, took refuge in a bay near the entrance of Baltimore harbour, was boarded by Conoghar O'Driseoll, chieftain of Sherkin, and his sons, and piloted safely into Baltimore harbour, the stipulated reward for the pilotage being three pipes of wine." Such is the account given and recorded by Smith and others, who add that, the
43 Sketches in Carlcry.

Internet Archive sketchesincarber00dono, Chapter 5

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Baltimore in Cork, this is where the O'Driscolls pulled off a famous seizure in 1537. On 20 February 1537, four ships from Lisbon carrying wine for Waterford merchants were driven by bad weather to Cape Clear, Baltimore, and the Old Head of Kinsale. One of them, the Santa Maria de Soci, carrying 100 tuns of wine, took refuge in a bay near the entrance to Baltimore harbour. Conoghar O'Driscoll, chieftain of Sherkin, and his sons boarded her and piloted her safely into Baltimore harbour, the agreed reward being three pipes of wine. Then the O'Driscolls seized the merchants, attacked the ship, and shared out the wine among their neighbours.

Algerine pirate sack of Baltimore, 1631

Baltimore · town · Cork · 1631

On 20 June 1631, two Algerine galleys manned with pirates landed at Baltimore in the dead of night, plundered the town, massacred most inhabitants, and carried about 200 captives into slavery. Most of the captured were English settlers, and Baltimore never recovered from the shock.

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Baltimore was not destined to remain for any length of time in a state of repose. Sir "Walter Coppinger reduced the place to great distress in 1629, and took possession of the town and castle ; but the greatest calamity which had yet occurred befel this illfated locality on the 20th June, 1631, when two Algerine galleys, manned with pirates, landed in the dead of night, plundered the town, massacred the greater portion of She inhabitants, and took the remainder into a captivity almost worse than death. Of those captured (200 in number) most were English settlers. The Algerines were piloted into Baltimore by a man named Hackett, a Dungarvan fisherman, who, about two years after this occurrence, was taken prisoner, carried to Baltimore, and hung on a high cliff, facing the sea, and looking down on tbe very channel through which the miscreant had but a short time before so treacherously and cruelly conducted the galleys of the bloodthirsty and marauding pirates.
I

Internet Archive sketchesincarber00dono, Chapter 3

As the companion tells it

You're coming up on Baltimore, down in west Cork. This town suffered a catastrophe on the 20th of June, 1631. Two Algerine galleys manned with pirates landed in the dead of night. They plundered the town, massacred the greater portion of the inhabitants, and took the remainder into a captivity described as almost worse than death. Of those captured, 200 in number, most were English settlers. The Algerines were piloted into Baltimore by a man named Hackett, a Dungarvan fisherman. About two years after the sack, Hackett was taken prisoner, carried to Baltimore, and hung on a high cliff facing the sea, looking down on the very channel through which he had treacherously and cruelly conducted the galleys of the pirates. Before this, in 1629, Sir Walter Coppinger had reduced the place to great distress and taken possession of the town and castle. Baltimore never recovered from the shock of 1631.

Destruction of Baltimore town and Teigh O'Driscoll's castle, 1537

Baltimore · town · Cork · 1537

The Waterford invading troops burnt and destroyed the town of Baltimore, and broke down Teigh O'Driscoll's castle and bawn, probably Dunashad, establishing a precedent for the later Algerine attack.

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mid Butler. They anchored off Duneloug Castle (Sherkin) near the Abbey, and besieged and captured the castle, which the}r held for five days. They overran the island with fire and sword, destroyed all the villages, and almost reduced to ruins the Franciscan Abbey, and a large mill which adjoined that building. The fortress of Dunelong (the ship's castle), which was then a very strong and extensive structure, and surrounded by high imposing walls and barbicans enclosing a goodly bawn, the enclosure where the outer buildings were usually erected, was nearly levelled to the ground. Large stores of malt, barlev, and salt were taken possession of, and Fineen's chief galley of thirty oars, with about eighty pinnaces. Forty of the latter were burnt, and the remainder, with the great galley, were taken back to Waterford as trophies of war. The invading troops from "Waterford were not satisfied, however, with the destruction of property in Sherkin. They also landed on some of the neighbouring islands, which they treated in a similar manner, and to wind up the entire programme, they burnt and destroyed the town of Baltimore, establishing the precedent for the Algerine, and broke down Teigh O'Driscoll's goodly castle and baun (probably Dunashad).
Within the antriles or crypts of the ancient raths, in the subterranean chambers of the barrows or artificial tumuli, and inscribed on the edges of those peculiar pillar stones (gallauns) and cromlechs (ancient tombs), antiquarians have discovered occasionally traces of the Ogham ("oum") characters, supposed to have been the occult mode of writing known to the Druids, and the knowledge of which mysterious possession was carefully concealed from the mass of the people. It is believed that the art

Internet Archive sketchesincarber00dono, Chapter 5

As the companion tells it

You're coming into Baltimore now. In 1537 this town was burnt and destroyed by invading troops from Waterford, who had already laid waste the islands nearby. They anchored off Duneloug Castle on Sherkin, near the Abbey, and besieged and captured the castle, holding it for 5 days. They overran the island with fire and sword, destroyed all the villages, and almost reduced the Franciscan Abbey to ruins, along with a large mill that adjoined that building. The fortress of Dunelong, then a very strong and extensive structure surrounded by high walls and barbicans enclosing "a goodly bawn," the enclosure where the outer buildings were usually erected, was nearly levelled to the ground. They seized large stores of malt, barley, and salt, and took Fineen's chief galley of 30 oars, with about 80 pinnaces. 40 of those pinnaces were burnt, and the rest, with the great galley, were taken back to Waterford as trophies of war. The Waterford troops were not satisfied with the destruction on Sherkin. They also landed on some of the neighbouring islands and treated them in the same manner. To wind up the entire programme, they burnt and destroyed the town of Baltimore, "establishing the precedent for the Algerine," and broke down Teigh O'Driscoll's goodly castle and bawn, probably Dunashad.

Battle of Kinsale, December 1601

Kinsale · town · Cork · 1601

The Spanish landed at Kinsale on 23 September 1601, followed by the forces of O'Donnell and O'Neill. The battle of Kinsale in December 1601 resulted in the final overthrow of the Spanish and Irish forces by Mountjoy and Carew.

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A lull had taken place in the storm, which, however, was destined to break forth with renewed violence, when the Spaniards landed in Kinsale, on the 23rd September, 1601. Then followed the final effort of the two great northern chieftains, O'Donnell and O'Neill, whom M'Gree describes as the Achilles and Ulysses of the fight. The memorable and important battle of Kinsale occurred shortly afterwards — December, 1601 — resulting in the final overthrow of the Spanish and Irish forces by Mountjoy and Carew. The overweenino- confidence and incapacity of Don Juan D'Ao-uila, the Spanish leader, and the impetuous ardour of O'Donnell, whose counsel outweighed the more prudent tactics of the great O'Neill, led in a great measure to this disastrous defeat. At this period amongst the southern chieftains, who had joined the Spaniards and O'Neill and O'Donnell, the most prominent names were those of O'Sullivan, of Dunboy, and Sir Fineen O'Driscoll More, a sketch of whose career and antecedents we must reserve for a future chapter.
Sketches in Carbery. 9§

Internet Archive sketchesincarber00dono, Chapter 8

As the companion tells it

As you come through Kinsale, you are entering the ground of a battle that broke the old order in Ireland. The Spaniards landed here on 23 September 1601. Then the two great northern chieftains came south: O'Donnell and O'Neill, whom M'Gree describes as the Achilles and Ulysses of the fight. The battle itself came in December 1601. Mountjoy and Carew overthrew the Spanish and Irish forces. The disaster came in part from the overweening confidence and incapacity of Don Juan d'Aquila, the Spanish leader, and from the impetuous ardour of O'Donnell, whose counsel outweighed the more prudent tactics of the great O'Neill. Among the southern chieftains who had joined the Spaniards and the two northerners, the most prominent names were O'Sullivan of Dunboy and Sir Fineen O'Driscoll More.

Carrigadrohid castle captured by Broghill's stratagem, 1650

Carrigadrohid · townland · Cork · 1650

After capturing Bishop Mac Egan at Macroom, Broghill left his infantry to watch Carrigadrohid castle, which was garrisoned by the bishop's forces. The bishop urged the garrison to hold out and was executed. Broghill subsequently captured the castle by a stratagem, drawing large pieces of timber towards the walls with oxen, which the garrison mistook for cannon.

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worthy of a Begulus, advised them to hold out to the last, fearing lest Broghill might put them to the sword- The reward of his unflinching courage was instant execution. _ Broghill subsequently captured the castle by a stratagem, viz., by drawing large pieces of timber towards the walls by means of a team of oxen. The garrison supposed them to be cannon, and after a parley surrendered. The date of the battle was 10th May, 1650, according to Smith.
In the Consistorial Acts, A. D. 1517, some interesting information is given regarding the ancient cathedral of Eoss, said to have been first erected by St. - Fachnan, and which, in the beginning of the 16th century, was, according to the " Monast. Hibernic." ^ " one of the most remarkable structures of the kingdom." At the date referred to, John O'Murrily (formerly abbot of the Abbey de Fonte Vivo,) was bishop of Eoss, having succeeded Dr. De Couroy, who resigned, owing to the infirmities of age. .

Internet Archive sketchesincarber00dono, Chapter 15

Hackett the Dungarvan fisherman hung at Baltimore

Baltimore · town · Cork · 1633

A Dungarvan fisherman named Hackett piloted the Algerine pirates into Baltimore. About two years after the 1631 sack, he was captured, carried to Baltimore, and hung on a high cliff facing the sea, overlooking the very channel through which he had guided the pirates.

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Baltimore was not destined to remain for any length of time in a state of repose. Sir "Walter Coppinger reduced the place to great distress in 1629, and took possession of the town and castle ; but the greatest calamity which had yet occurred befel this illfated locality on the 20th June, 1631, when two Algerine galleys, manned with pirates, landed in the dead of night, plundered the town, massacred the greater portion of She inhabitants, and took the remainder into a captivity almost worse than death. Of those captured (200 in number) most were English settlers. The Algerines were piloted into Baltimore by a man named Hackett, a Dungarvan fisherman, who, about two years after this occurrence, was taken prisoner, carried to Baltimore, and hung on a high cliff, facing the sea, and looking down on tbe very channel through which the miscreant had but a short time before so treacherously and cruelly conducted the galleys of the bloodthirsty and marauding pirates.
I

Internet Archive sketchesincarber00dono, Chapter 3

As the companion tells it

Coming up now is Baltimore, a town on this coast with a dark chapter behind it. Baltimore was not destined to remain long in peace. Sir Walter Coppinger reduced the place to great distress in 1629, and took possession of the town and castle. The greatest calamity befell this ill-fated locality on 20 June 1631, when two Algerine galleys manned with pirates landed in the dead of night, plundered the town, massacred the greater portion of the inhabitants, and took the remainder into captivity almost worse than death. About 200 were captured, most of them English settlers. The Algerines were piloted into Baltimore by a man named Hackett, a Dungarvan fisherman. About two years after, he was taken prisoner, carried to Baltimore, and hung on a high cliff facing the sea, looking down on the very channel through which he had guided the galleys of the bloodthirsty pirates.

Naval engagement at Castlehaven, 6 Dec 1601

Castlehaven · townland · Cork · 1601

Admiral Levison sailed from Kinsale to Castlehaven and attacked the Spanish fleet on 6 December 1601. He drove four Spanish ships ashore but ran aground himself, enduring twenty-four hours of shore battery fire before a favourable wind let him warp out and return to Kinsale.

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Spaniards, amounting to 5,000 men, landed in Kinsale, on the 23rd September, under the command of Don Juan d'Aquila, in order to assist the Irish chieftains, who had been anxiously awaiting for some months back this welcome addition to their forces. The Spaniards seized on Kinsale and Rincorran, a castle on the opposite side of the harbour, but were soon closely besieged by the Lord Deputy Mountjoy and the Lord President Sir George Carew. On the 28th November, 1601, a reinforcement of six Spanish ships, with 2,000 men on board, and stores, ordnance, and ammunition in abundance, ' arrived in Castlehaven, under the command of Don Pedro de Zuibar, upon which occurrence all the country from Kinsale westward declared for the Spaniards. Donough O'Driscoll, who was Lord of Castlehaven at the time, delivered up his castle to them, and his example was followed by the chieftains in Baltimore, Bearhaven, &c, to whom presents and munitions of war were sent by the Spanish commander, and titles and posts of command bestowed upon them. "When news reached Kinsale that the Spaniards had landed in Castlehaven, Admiral Levison, who was in command of the naval squadron in the former place, immediately sailed out of the harbour, and proceeded to Castlehaven, where he arrived on the 6th December, 1601, and attacked the Spanish Admiral. During the engagement he drove the ships of the Admiral, Yice- Admiral, and two others on shore, but having gone aground himself, owing to contrary winds, he lay exposed for twenty-four hours, to a battery, which had been* erected by the Spaniards, on shore. During this time he received 300 shot in his masts, hull and rigging, but, the wind taking a favourable change, he warped
Sketches in Carberp. 1.33

Internet Archive sketchesincarber00dono

As the companion tells it

Somewhere around here, on the 6th of December 1601, Admiral Levison attacked a Spanish fleet in Castlehaven. The wider story began three months earlier. On the 23rd of September, 5,000 Spaniards under Don Juan d'Aquila landed at Kinsale to assist the Irish chieftains, who had been anxiously awaiting this welcome addition to their forces for some months. The Spaniards seized Kinsale and Rincorran, a castle on the opposite side of the harbour, but were soon closely besieged by the Lord Deputy Mountjoy and the Lord President Sir George Carew. On the 28th of November, a reinforcement of 6 Spanish ships with 2,000 men on board, and stores, ordnance and ammunition in abundance, arrived in Castlehaven under Don Pedro de Zuibar. The country from Kinsale westward declared for the Spaniards. Donough O'Driscoll, Lord of Castlehaven, delivered up his castle to them, and his example was followed by the chieftains in Baltimore, Bearhaven and elsewhere, to whom the Spanish commander sent presents and munitions, and bestowed titles and posts of command. When news reached Kinsale that the Spaniards had landed here, Admiral Levison, in command of the naval squadron, immediately sailed out and proceeded to Castlehaven. He arrived on the 6th of December and attacked the Spanish Admiral. During the engagement he drove the ships of the Admiral, Vice-Admiral and two others on shore, but went aground himself owing to contrary winds. He lay exposed for 24 hours to a battery the Spaniards had erected on shore. He received 300 shot in his masts, hull and rigging, but the wind taking a favourable change, he warped out and returned to Kinsale.

Waterford armed expedition recovers ship at Baltimore, March 1537

Baltimore · town · Cork · 1537

Upon news of the ship's seizure, Waterford fitted out an armed expedition under Captain Dobbyn which reached Baltimore on 5 March. O'Driscoll's followers fled, the crew was liberated, and only 25 of the original 100 tuns of wine remained unconsumed.

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It is more than probable that a spirit of reprisal upon the citizens of Waterford — with whom it seems that a sort of chronic petty warfare had been established— was more influential in leading them into such a decided breach of the peace than the actual and deliberate desire of plundering a solitary ship ; however, that cause may have had its influence too, as, during the period we allude to, the rights of property, and the legal claims of individuals to the fruits of the soil and their industry and enterprise were not as jealously guarded by Parliamentary statutes as they are at the present day. When news arrived in Waterford of the ship's seizure by O'Driscoll, an armed expedition was fitted out, under the command of Captain Dobbyn, and reached Baltimore on the 5th March. As they boarded the " St. Maria" on one side, O'Driscoll's sons and his followers took flight, and escaped at the other side. Dobbyn immediately set the crew at liberty, and weighing anchor, proceeded back to Waterford. Of the 100 tuns of wine, twenty-five only remained unconsumed. On the 27th of same month, a more formidable expedition of 400 men, thoroughly equipped for action, set sail from Waterford in two large vessels, and the great galley of the city, under command of Bailiff Woodlock and Captains Dobbyn, Wood!ock, Walsh,
Sketches in Carhcry. 49

Internet Archive sketchesincarber00dono, Chapter 5

As the companion tells it

As you come through Baltimore, this is where a Waterford expedition arrived by sea in March 1537. There had been a kind of chronic petty warfare between the O'Driscolls and the citizens of Waterford, and a spirit of reprisal seems to have done as much as any desire for plunder in leading to the breach of peace that brought things to a head here. Word reached Waterford that O'Driscoll had seized a ship. The city fitted out an armed expedition under Captain Dobbyn, which reached Baltimore on the 5th of March. They boarded the St. Maria on one side, and O'Driscoll's sons and his followers took flight and escaped at the other. Dobbyn set the crew at liberty, weighed anchor, and sailed back to Waterford. Of the 100 tuns of wine that had been aboard, only 25 remained unconsumed. Before the month was out, on the 27th, a far more formidable force set out from Waterford: 400 men, thoroughly equipped, in two large vessels and the great galley of the city, under command of Bailiff Woodlock and Captains Dobbyn, Woodlock, and Walsh.

Bill Barrett's supernatural encounter at Lough Hyne castle

near Lough Hyne · lake or lakes · Cork

Bill Barrett sought hidden gold near a castle at Lough Hyne at midnight, where he encountered a black cat that transformed into a giant black dog breathing fire. The dog leapt into the lake, raising enormous waves, and Barrett fled in terror. He believed the cat was the spirit of Labhra Longseach guarding treasure, and shortly after, the castle walls reportedly collapsed.

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Bill, as soon as he recovered from the " wakeness" that came over him, immediately cut his stick, and returned home " a wiser but a sadder man," almost dead with fright : he fell sick, and did not recover from the effects of his midnight rambles for three months ; and all the wealth of the world, he says, would not induce him to revisit the castle at midnight. He still verily believes that the black cat was the departed spirit of Labhra Longseach, guarding the hidden treasure, and that the same cat can only be
I

Internet Archive sketchesincarber00dono, Chapter 9

As the companion tells it

As you pass Lough Hyne, that lake holds a story from Bill Barrett. He came to the castle here at midnight looking for hidden gold, and met a black cat that turned into a giant black dog breathing fire. The dog leapt into the lake and sent up enormous waves, and Barrett ran for his life. He was sick for three months after, and said all the wealth of the world would not make him go back. He believed that black cat was the spirit of Labhra Longseach guarding the treasure. Not long after, the castle walls collapsed.

Coppinger drops dead leaving church on Sunday

Coppinger's Court · man-made feature · Cork

Coppinger vowed to execute an obnoxious individual after returning from prayers on a Sunday. On leaving the church he suddenly dropped dead in a fit brought on by passion, and the people believed it was a visitation of Providence.

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The way in which he closed his career is said to have been the following : — On one occasion Coppinger, in a rage, made a vow that he would execute some obnoxious individual as soon as he returned from prayers. The day happened to be Sunday. He did not wish to carry out the sentence without first attending to his devotions, so religious a character was he. Keport goes on to say that Coppinger, when leaving the church, suddenly dropped dead in a fit, brought on by violence of passion, and the people believed at the time that it was a visitation of Providence which cut him off in the midst of his designs.
After his death the estate passed in fragments into the hands of several new owners. The Tvil-

Internet Archive sketchesincarber00dono, Chapter 14

As the companion tells it

Right beside the road here is Coppinger's Court in Cork. Coppinger, in a rage one Sunday, vowed to execute some obnoxious individual as soon as he returned from prayers. He did not wish to carry out the sentence without first attending to his devotions, so religious a character was he. But when leaving the church he suddenly dropped dead in a fit brought on by violence of passion. The people believed it was a visitation of Providence which cut him off in the midst of his designs. After his death the estate passed in fragments into the hands of several new owners.

Cross-sculptured pillar-stone near Teampleen Breeda

near Lough Hyne · lake or lakes · Cork

A broken pillar-stone with an ancient cross sculptured near its base stands on a verdant knoll beside St. Brigid's chapel at Lough Hyne. A coastguardman repeatedly removed the stone, even casting it into the lake, but it always returned to its place. He finally broke it with a sledge-hammer but could not damage the cross-bearing portion, and was shortly afterwards drowned.

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Close to the little chapel, on a verdant knoll, may be seen a broken pillar-stone, supported between two headstones, with an ancient cross sculptured on it near the base. The tradition is that this pillar-stone was always looked upon by the people as a relic of sanctity, some saintly*person being buried near the . spot, or having engraved the cross upon the stone. However, on some distant occasion, an adventurous and fool-hardy coastguardsman determined to put the matter to the test ; so he had the Gothic audacity ' to remove the relic to ..his own house during the night ; next morning, however, it was in its original site again. Nothing daunted he again removed it, and dropped it into the centre of the lake ; the following day the stone again resumed its former situation near the chapel. Enraged beyond measure, he vowed its destruction, and taking a sledge-hammer with him he made a most savage attack upon the unoffending object of his wrath; but, as "Bill Barrett" asserts in the most positive terms, although he broke the pillar stone in two, if he was hammering away until the. day of judgment he could not injure that portion of the stone on which the cross was sculptured. The coastguardman immediately left the country, and was shortly after this occurrence drowned. Such is the popular version of the story in the neighbourhood of Lough Hyne.
A short but steep ascent from Teampleen- Breeda brings us to Tobar-Breeda, St. Brigid's "Well — a small hollow in the solid rock — at the margin of which may be observed an impression in the rock said to be caused by St. Brigid's knees ; which impression was kept up by the fact of nume-

Internet Archive sketchesincarber00dono, Chapter 9

As the companion tells it

Coming up along Lough Hyne, near the little chapel of Teampleen Breeda, there is a verdant knoll where you can see a broken pillar-stone, propped between two headstones, with an ancient cross sculptured on it near the base. The people always regarded it as a relic of sanctity, some saintly person being buried near the spot, or having engraved the cross upon the stone. The tradition goes that on some distant occasion an adventurous and foolhardy coastguardsman determined to put the matter to the test. He had the Gothic audacity to remove the relic to his own house during the night. Next morning it was in its original site again. Nothing daunted, he removed it a second time and dropped it into the centre of the lake. The following day the stone again resumed its former situation near the chapel. Enraged beyond measure, he vowed its destruction. Taking a sledge-hammer, he made a most savage attack upon the unoffending object of his wrath. As Bill Barrett asserts in the most positive terms, although the coastguard broke the pillar stone in two, if he had been hammering away until the day of judgment he could not injure that portion of the stone on which the cross was sculptured. The coastguardman immediately left the country, and was shortly after this occurrence drowned. Such is the popular version of the story in the neighbourhood of Lough Hyne. A short but steep ascent from Teampleen Breeda brings you to Tobar Breeda, St. Brigid's well, a small hollow in the solid rock, at the margin of which may be observed an impression said to be caused by St. Brigid's knees.

Fir Bregach: false soldiers on Cape Clear cliffs

Clear Island · island or archipelago · Cork · 1796–1797

Long upright stones known as the Fir Bregach (False Men) were planted at the south-west end of Cape Clear Island near the sea cliffs and clothed in scarlet uniforms to deceive approaching hostile forces into believing soldiers were on guard. They were erected around the same time as the Signal Tower, about 1796, and had remained undisturbed for some eighty years.

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A Signal Tower was erected close to where the lighthouse stands immediately after the arrival of the French in Ban try Bay. In appearance it presents the character of a fortress, and was evidently intended, judging from its architecture, to serve for military purposes, as well as for signalling. Shortly after its erection a violent storm occurred, and owing to its exposed situation, the tower was rocked and shaken so much by the wind, that the lieutenant in command and his little garrison were tempted strongly to desert the building for fear of being buried under the ruins. In connection with the Signal Tower I must refer to the Fir Bregach (False men, An g lice). These were long, upright stones, which were firmly imbedded in the ground, and occupied a prominent position at the south-west end of the island, close to the high cliffs which overhang the sea. In order to scare away any hostile force, which might have been tempted to invade the island, the very ingenious "ruse de guerre" was adopted of clothing these inanimate bodies, each with a suit of scarlet uniform, so that when observed from the sea they might be mistaken for a company of soldiers on the alert. They were placed in a position which they have maintained undisturbed for the last eighty years, having been planted about the same time the Signal Tower was erected. There can be no doubt but the "Fir Bregach," although they
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Internet Archive sketchesincarber00dono

Harrington's Lights at Union Hall (1832–1838)

Unionhall · town · Cork · 1832–1838

From 1832 to 1838, strange luminous phenomena known as 'Glandore Lights' or 'Harrington's Lights' appeared in the cabin of Thomas Harrington, a consumptive labourer living at the foot of Ardagh hill near Union Hall. Visitors from across the South of Ireland came to witness the lights, variously attributed to supernatural agency, electrical causes, or phosphureted hydrogen exhaled from the dying man's body.

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It appears that in the year 1832, a poor labouring man named Thomas Harrington, residing in the parish of Myross, occupied a small cabin close to the sea-side, at the foot of a hill called Ardagh, which is in the immediate vicinity of Union Hall. He was a man of a delicate constitution ; exposure to hardship, cold, and damp brought on an attack ^f consumption, aud for sisSyears, from 1832 to 1838, he lingered in a dying state, his health being gradually undermined by the slow, insidious, but certainly fatal ravages of that most incurable disease .-
During this period strange lights of a ghastly hue, and assuming the most varied forms, were observed from time to time within the walls of the cabin and over the body of the sick man. The report of this strange occurrence soon travelled far and wide, and from various parts of the county persons of all ranks of society, male and female, assembled to witness Harrington's Lights. Some observed nothing, some saw faint glimmerings,

Internet Archive sketchesincarber00dono, Chapter 11

As the companion tells it

Coming up along Unionhall now. Back in 1832, a poor labouring man named Thomas Harrington lived in a small cabin close to the sea-side, at the foot of a hill called Ardagh, in the parish of Myross, in the immediate vicinity of Union Hall. He was a man of a delicate constitution. Exposure to hardship, cold, and damp brought on an attack of consumption, and for six years, from 1832 to 1838, he lingered in a dying state, his health gradually undermined by the slow, insidious, but certainly fatal ravages of that most incurable disease. During this period strange lights of a ghastly hue, assuming the most varied forms, were observed from time to time within the walls of the cabin and over the body of the sick man. The report soon travelled far and wide, and from various parts of the county persons of all ranks of society, male and female, assembled to witness Harrington's Lights. Some observed nothing. Some saw faint glimmerings.

Subterranean chambers with 500 skeletons discovered at Peake

Peake · townland · Cork · 1755

In March 1755, labourers digging a ditch at Peake in the parish of Aghahologue, County Cork, accidentally discovered a passage leading into fifteen to seventeen large underground rooms. One chamber contained an estimated five hundred skeletons laid out in rows, along with a carved wooden comb and comb-case that crumbled to dust upon exposure to air.

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made in them. Tlie common tradition concerning them is that they were made by the Danes ; but the more intelligent Irish antiquarians say they were inhabited by the Firbolges, a people of whom there is much mention in their MSS. Homer's description of the Cimmerians (Odys Lib. xi.) answers very well to the -inhabitants of these gloomy places." The foregoing abstract has been given at full length, the description answering, in most particulars, to that already given of the Sherkin caves, and, besides, it goes to prove that the belief as to these extraordinary chambers having been places of residence was very strong amongst antiquarians even a hundred years ago. Extract of a letter from Peake, in the parish of Aghahologue, and county of Cork, written by the Eeverend Marmaduke Cox, March, 1755 (Smith) — "Last Thursday, as some labourers were making a ditch, to enclose a potato garden, one of them dropped his spade into a deep hole, which obliged him to open the earth to get out his spade, where he found a passage into fifteen, some say seventeen, very large subterraneous ;rooms or caverns, in one of which, by estimation, were above five hundred skeletons, all entire, and laid at a distance of about a' foot from each other. All these bones were so fragile and destitute of animal matter, from the length of time they had been immured, that they crumbled into dust on being handled, or even exposed to a current of air. 'Tis imagined there must be another passage to those subterraneous chambers from a Danish fort, about one hundred and fifty yards from the present entrance, this being very narrow. The rooms are about five feet high. There are other chambers that are not got into, the entrance being defended by very large stones, laid in the doors, which cannot be easily
Sketches in Carbery. 43

Internet Archive sketchesincarber00dono, Chapter 4

William Grant's escape from burning Castle of Dunashad

Baltimore · town · Cork · 1537

During the attack on the Castle of Dunashad, a seaman named William Grant was trapped atop the burning castle. A man named Butler shot an arrow with a cord to him, enabling Grant to slide down a rope to safety.

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Smith in his " History of Cork" describes a curious incident connected with the attack on this old castle. " A William Grant, one of the seamen, was on the top of the castle, which, being all on fire under him, he stood upon a pinnacle and cried out for assistance. One Butler tied a small cord to an arrow, and shot it up to Grant, by means of which cord he drew up a rope, which he fastened to the pinnacle, and slid down safe to his companions, after which the army arrived safe in Waterford."
• Baltimore soon again regained its former prosperity, and the next important news we learn is that it received a Charter of Incorporation as a borough from James I., March 25th, 1613, the government being vested in a sovereign, twelve burgesses, and a commonalty and was represented in Parliament by

Internet Archive sketchesincarber00dono, Chapter 3

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Baltimore, you're near the site of the old Castle of Dunashad. In 1537, during an attack on the castle, a seaman named William Grant was trapped on the roof as fire raged beneath him. He stood on a pinnacle and cried out for help. A man named Butler tied a small cord to an arrow and shot it up to Grant. Grant used the cord to draw up a rope, fastened it to the pinnacle, and slid down safe to his companions. Smith's History of Cork records that the army then arrived safe in Waterford.

Capture of Clogan Castle near Baltimore, 1602

Cloghan · town · Offaly · 1602

After the reduction of Dunboy Castle in 1602, Captain Flower summoned Clogan Castle near Baltimore. The governor refused to surrender a priest who had recently come from Rome, and so allowed his own brother Mac Donough Durrow to be hanged. The governor later procured the priest's escape and surrendered the castle four days later.

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After the reduction of Dunboy Castle, by Sir George Carew, Lord President of Munster, in 1602, we find that during his return to Cork, several other fortresses of inferior note throughout the country were stormed and captured by his victorious army — amongst others, that of Clogan, near Baltimore. The following particulars regarding its capture are recorded in the "Paccita Hibernia," a work written by Sir George Carew himself: — "Sir Charles Wilmot took Macrocm Castle in September, 1602, and about the same time that of Clogan, near Baltimore, was summoned by Captain Flower, who had in his posses-
I

Internet Archive sketchesincarber00dono, Chapter 3

Sherkin Abbey ruins and cemetery

near Sherkin Island · townland · Cork · 1460

The Franciscan Abbey on Sherkin Island, built in 1460 after the model of Kilcrea Abbey, retains its nave, choir, tower, south transept, cloisters, refectory, and dormitories. The choir has served as a cemetery for two centuries, with human bones heaped in wall-cells and rude slabs covering graves beneath rank vegetation.

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The Abbey is distinctly visible from Baltimore ; it is close to the water's edge, near the Abbey Strand. The adjoining ground is fertile, and the situation selected was both picturesque and convenient. It was built after the model of Kilcrea Abbey. The ruins (which are well worthy of a visit) consist of the nave, choir, tower, and south transept, the intervening wall being arcaded in a finished style with hewn free-stone, procured from a quarry on the island. In addition, we observe remains of the cloisters, refectory and dormitories, all in tolerably good preservation, but the destroying hand of time is slowly but surely crumbling into dust the relics of what formerlj^just have been a very graceful and ornamental building. When we enter within the precincts of the surrounding walls, the traditions of the past are immediately recalled; the cloisters and dormitories and the choir of the church, which has been occupied as a cemetery for the last two centuries, present a desolate and solemn appearance. On either side, in cells hollowed in the walis, are heaped up piles of human bones ; and around on the floor in every direction are rude slabs and headstones, sad mementoes of a past generation that sleeps beneath the ferns, and tangled weeds, and long, coarse grass, which spring up in rank' and wild luxuriance wherever we turn. A corner-stone near the east end of the building commemorates
4*

Internet Archive sketchesincarber00dono, Chapter 4

Capture of Castlehaven by Captain Roger Harvey, 1602

Castlehaven · townland · Cork · 1602

After the Spanish and O'Donnell departed in 1602, Captain Roger Harvey entered Castlehaven harbour commanding Royal forces and took possession of the castle on 12 February 1602. The O'Driscolls, as original owners, had reoccupied the castle after the Spanish evacuation, but the Spaniards were assaulting it when Harvey arrived, and the O'Driscolls immediately evacuated, delivering it to the Spaniards, who then surrendered to Harvey.

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To return to Castlehaven. After the departure of the Spaniards and O'Donnell in 1602, Captain Roger Harvey, to whom a commission had been granted for the government of Carbery, by Lord Deputy Mountjoy, entered the harbour in command of the Royal forces, and took possession of Castlehaven on the 12th February, 1602. When the Spaniards had evacuated the castle, according to the treaty made at the capitulation of Kinsale, the O'Driseolls (the original owners), who looked upon themselves as the rightful heirs, took possession of the place, and when Harvey arrived the Spaniards were assaulting and undermining the castle in order to get it into their own hands again. The appearance of the English forces on the stage, however, altered the state of affairs ; the O'Driseolls evacuated the castle immediately, delivering it up to the Spaniards, who had lost two soldiers during the assault, and they in their turn surrendered to Harvey, who took quiet possession of the castle. Never per-
JlJj

Internet Archive sketchesincarber00dono, Chapter 10

As the companion tells it

Somewhere around here, Castlehaven harbour was the scene of a contested handover in February 1602. After the Spaniards and O'Donnell had departed, Captain Roger Harvey, holding a commission from Lord Deputy Mountjoy for the government of Carbery, entered the harbour commanding the Royal forces. The Spaniards had earlier evacuated the castle under the treaty made at the capitulation of Kinsale, and the O'Driscolls, who regarded themselves as the rightful heirs, had taken possession of the place. When Harvey arrived the Spaniards were already assaulting and undermining the castle to get it back into their own hands. The appearance of the English forces altered affairs. The O'Driscolls evacuated the castle immediately, delivering it up to the Spaniards, who had lost two soldiers during the assault. The Spaniards then surrendered to Harvey, who took quiet possession of the castle on 12 February 1602.

Cathedral silver treasure buried in Ross strand

Ross Carbery · town · Cork · 1582

When William Lyons was appointed first Protestant bishop in Elizabeth's reign, all the cathedral and monastery plate and bells, of solid silver and valued at £7,000, were secreted. Tradition says they were buried deep somewhere in the strand at Ross and remain undiscovered.

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In the reign of Elizabeth, when Lyons was appointed (first Protestant bishop), all the plate, bells, &c-, which were of solid silver, and belonged to the cathedral and monastery, were secreted, and have remained concealed and undiscovered up to the present day : they were valued at £7,000. Tradition says that they were buried deep somewhere in the strand. If not washed away by the tide, some fortunate explorer (who was born with a silver spoon in his mouth) might yet discover the hidden treasure.
The present Protestant church in Eoss is built on

Internet Archive sketchesincarber00dono, Chapter 15

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Ross Carbery, you are near the strand where a fortune in silver may still lie hidden. In 1582, when William Lyons became the first Protestant bishop under Elizabeth, all the cathedral and monastery plate and bells were secreted away. They were solid silver, valued at £7,000. Tradition says they were buried deep somewhere in the strand, and nothing has ever been found.

Coppinger and Becher dispute over Baltimore fisheries

Baltimore · town · Cork · 1620–1630

Coppinger prosecuted his doubtful title and obtained a Chancery order against the O'Driscoll heirs. Commissioner Henry Becher privately contracted with Coppinger for a lease of the whole, leading to complaints from the Baltimore Sovereign; Coppinger was confined to Dublin Castle for contempt of court, while Richard Boyle, Earl of Cork, advised Becher on securing tenure of the fisheries.

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After his death, and before the lease had expired, Coppinger prosecuted his title, a very doubtful one it must have been, and got, by reference, an order out of Chancery against the heirs of O'Driscoll. The Sovereign, or Mayor of Baltimore, the Burgesses, and the inhabitants, with the heir of Sir Fineen, petitioned Government, and stated their grievances at full length. Coppinger, in the meantime, after the justices had issued a commission to Sir "William Hull, Mr. Henry Becher, and Mr. Barham to examine into the case, made a private contract with Becher, and granted him a lease of tha whole. Another complaint followed from the Baltimore Sovereign. Coppinger was summoned, and confined to Dublin Castle for contempt of court, and Becher, although one of the commissioners, was considered equally culpable. Fortunately for Becher, however, he had as a particular friend, the celebrated Richard Boyle, first Earl of Cork, who gave him salutary advice, and also fixity of tenure, regarding the fisheries, with the admonition that they might all go peacably home and abide by. the decision.— (See Smith.)
Other claimants appeared soon after in the wake of the Sovereigu of Baltimore, Coppinger, and

Internet Archive sketchesincarber00dono, Chapter 8

As the companion tells it

As you come through Baltimore in west Cork, you are near the scene of a tangled fight over the town's fisheries that ran from 1620 into 1630. Coppinger pressed a doubtful title and obtained a Chancery order against the O'Driscoll heirs. The Sovereign of Baltimore, the Burgesses, and the inhabitants, together with the heir of Sir Fineen, petitioned the Government and set out their grievances at full length. The justices issued a commission to Sir William Hull, Mr. Henry Becher, and Mr. Barham to examine into the case. Before they could report, Coppinger made a private contract with Becher and granted him a lease of the whole. Another complaint followed from the Baltimore Sovereign. Coppinger was summoned and confined to Dublin Castle for contempt of court, and Becher, though one of the commissioners, was considered equally culpable. Becher had as a particular friend the celebrated Richard Boyle, first Earl of Cork, who gave him salutary advice and also fixity of tenure regarding the fisheries, with the admonition that they might all go peaceably home and abide by the decision.

Coppinger's Court: local despot's gallows and dungeon

Coppinger's Court · man-made feature · Cork

Stories are told of Coppinger, who ruled the district with power of life and death over the people. He allegedly had a yard-arm fixed to a gable of his mansion serving as a gallows, and a dark dungeon beneath the basement where prisoners languished in chains for years.

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Stories are related of Coppinger which seem incredible at the present day, and which, no doubt, are somewhat exaggerated. He is said to have possessed in the district, which he ruled as a local despot, the power of life and death over the people. It is related how he had a yard-arm extended from one of the gable-ends of his mansion, which served the purpose of a gallows, wherewith to hang the victims of his unlicensed power. Stories are also told of a dark dungeon beneath the basement story of the court, where prisoners pined for years in wretchedness and chains.
The way in which he closed his career is said to have been the following : — On one occasion Coppinger, in a rage, made a vow that he would execute some obnoxious individual as soon as he returned from prayers. The day happened to be Sunday. He did not wish to carry out the sentence without first attending to his devotions, so religious a character was he. Keport goes on to say that Coppinger, when leaving the church, suddenly dropped dead in a fit, brought on by violence of passion, and the people believed at the time that it was a visitation of Providence which cut him off in the midst of his designs.

Internet Archive sketchesincarber00dono, Chapter 14

As the companion tells it

Up ahead is Coppinger's Court, here beside the road. Stories are told of Coppinger that seem incredible today, and no doubt somewhat exaggerated. He ruled the district as a local despot, said to hold the power of life and death over the people. A yard-arm extended from one of the gable-ends of his mansion, serving as a gallows to hang the victims of his unlicensed power. Beneath the basement story lay a dark dungeon, where prisoners pined for years in wretchedness and chains. The way he closed his career is said to have been this. On one occasion, in a rage, Coppinger made a vow that he would execute some obnoxious individual as soon as he returned from prayers. The day happened to be Sunday. He did not wish to carry out the sentence without first attending to his devotions, so religious a character was he. Report goes on to say that when leaving the church, Coppinger suddenly dropped dead in a fit, brought on by violence of passion. The people believed at the time it was a visitation of Providence which cut him off in the midst of his designs.

Labhra Loingseach legend at Lough Hyne

near Lough Hyne · lake or lakes · Cork

Local storyteller Bill Barrett narrated a legend that King Labhra Loingseach, who had the ears of an ass, once lived in Lough Hyne Castle. He killed each barber who shaved him to conceal his secret, until one barber whispered the truth to the ground; a reed grew there, and when made into a whistle it could only play 'Two ears of an ass on Labhra Loingseach.' The shamed king fled driving a golden-shod carriage over the water near Barlogue, which gave that place its name.

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In the olden times a celebrated king, named Labhra Loingseach lived in Lough Hyne Castle, or some other building occupying the same site; he was a man of incredible strength, and ruled the surrounding country with despotic sway. He possessed some of the attributes which pagan writers confer upon Pan, and to complete his character, he had two ears of an ass on his head, like the celebrated Midas, king of Phrygia, which blemish the wicked old tyrant carefully concealed from the knowledge of his subjects, as he was very vain of his personal appearance, and greatly devoted to the fair sex.
It was Labhra's custom to have himself shaved once a week, and he compensated the barber on each

Internet Archive sketchesincarber00dono, Chapter 9

As the companion tells it

As you pass near Lough Hyne, the lake holds a strange old tale. A king called Labhra Loingseach lived in Lough Hyne Castle and had two ears of an ass on his head, which he hid from everyone. Each barber who shaved him was killed to keep the secret, until one barber whispered the truth into the ground. A reed grew from that spot, and when it was made into a whistle, it could only play one tune:

Mrs. Goodman's trance and survival in Cork

Cork · city · Cork · 1747

Mrs. Goodman of Cork was apparently interred in a vault whilst in a trance, but found means to open it, walked home, and afterwards gave birth to a son, John Goodman, who died in January 1747. An oil painting of her still existed at the time of writing.

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" Mr. John Goodman, of Cork, died in January, 1747, but what is remarkable of him, his mother was interred, whilst she lay in a trance ; having been buried in a vault, which she found means to open, she walked home, and this Mr. Goodman was born some time after."
A large oil painting of Mrs. Goodman is still in existence. On the back -is a short manuscript account of the strange story we have been describing.

Internet Archive sketchesincarber00dono, Chapter 15

As the companion tells it

Coming through Cork now. In 1747 this city held a strange story. Mrs. Goodman was buried in a vault while she lay in a trance. She found means to open it, walked home, and some time after gave birth to a son, John Goodman. He died in January 1747. A large oil painting of Mrs. Goodman was still in existence when the story was recorded, with a short manuscript account of it written on the back.

Pilgrimage to tomb of Rev. John Power at Rosscarbery

Ross Carbery · town · Cork · 1831

Crowds of devotees from across southern Ireland and sometimes England traveled to the tomb of Rev. John Power, P.P., who died in 1831 and was buried in the graveyard at Rosscarbery. He was reputed to possess healing knowledge, and on each anniversary of his birthday the lame, blind, sick, old, young, and destitute gathered seeking alms and prayers, while others came for amusement and match-making.

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crowds of devotees, from various parts of the south of Ireland, and even sometimes from England, wending their way to the tomh of the Rev. John Power, P. P., who died in 1831, and was buried here.
He was a man of very amiable character, and said to have possessed some knowledge of the healing art, and, being greatly loved and respected by the people whilst he lived, his memory has been honoured by them since his death in a proportionate degree. On each anniversary of his birthday a large congregation assembles in the vicinity of the graveyard and around the tomb — the lame, the blind, the old and young, the healthy and sick, and destitute people soliciting alms.

Internet Archive sketchesincarber00dono, Chapter 15

As the companion tells it

As you pass through the town of Ross Carbery, you are near the graveyard where the Reverend John Power was buried after his death in 1831. He was a parish priest said to have had some knowledge of the healing art, and greatly loved by the people while he lived. On each anniversary of his birthday, crowds gathered from across the south of Ireland and sometimes even from England. The lame, the blind, the old and young, the healthy and the sick, and destitute people came soliciting alms around his tomb, honouring his memory since his death.

Algerine sack of Baltimore, 1631

Baltimore · town · Cork · 1631

The Algerines sacked Baltimore on 20 June 1631 but did not interfere with Sherkin or its inhabitants, probably being in too great a hurry to escape with their booty.

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Sherkix Castle was surrendered to Captain Harvey on the 23rd February, 1601, by O'Driscoll. The latter bad only just defeated the Spaniards, who refused to restore the castle to him after the battle of Kinsale. A commission was granted to Captain Harvey by the Lord Deputy Mountjoy for the government of Carbery. Smith informs us that the barony of Carbery gave title to the family of Vaughan, one of whom was made Earl of Carbery by King Charles I. The last earl died in 1712 — aged 74. The earldom then became extinct, there being no male heirs, and his daughter and sole heiress, the Lady Anne Vaughan, was married to the Duke of Bolton. The first baron holding the present title was created Baron of Carbery, May 9th, 1715, on the visit of George I. The Algerines, who sacked Baltimore on the 20th June, 1631, did not interfere with Sherkin or its inhabitants ; most probably they, were in too great a hurry to escape with their illgotten booty. A regular fortification was erected on Shorkin, which was garrisoned in Queen Anne's time; near it were barracks, nearly all traces of
Sketches in Car ben/. 47

Internet Archive sketchesincarber00dono, Chapter 5

As the companion tells it

As the road brings you through Baltimore in Cork, this is where Algerine raiders came on the 20th of June 1631 and sacked the town. They did not interfere with Sherkin or its inhabitants, most probably being in too great a hurry to escape with their ill-gotten booty. Sherkin Castle nearby had its own story before that. O'Driscoll had just defeated the Spaniards, who refused to restore the castle to him after the battle of Kinsale. On the 23rd of February 1601 he surrendered it to Captain Harvey. Harvey held a commission from Lord Deputy Mountjoy for the government of Carbery. The barony gave its title to the Vaughan family, and one of them was made Earl of Carbery by King Charles I. The last earl died in 1712, aged 74. The earldom became extinct, there being no male heirs. His daughter and sole heiress, Lady Anne Vaughan, married the Duke of Bolton. The first baron holding the present title was created Baron of Carbery on the 9th of May 1715, on the visit of George I. A regular fortification was later erected on Sherkin and garrisoned in Queen Anne's time, with barracks near it.

Sherkin Castle surrendered to Captain Harvey, 1601

near Sherkin Island · townland · Cork · 1601

Sherkin Castle was surrendered to Captain Harvey on 23 February 1601 by O'Driscoll, who had just defeated the Spaniards who refused to restore the castle after the battle of Kinsale. A commission was granted to Harvey by Lord Deputy Mountjoy for the government of Carbery.

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Sherkix Castle was surrendered to Captain Harvey on the 23rd February, 1601, by O'Driscoll. The latter bad only just defeated the Spaniards, who refused to restore the castle to him after the battle of Kinsale. A commission was granted to Captain Harvey by the Lord Deputy Mountjoy for the government of Carbery. Smith informs us that the barony of Carbery gave title to the family of Vaughan, one of whom was made Earl of Carbery by King Charles I. The last earl died in 1712 — aged 74. The earldom then became extinct, there being no male heirs, and his daughter and sole heiress, the Lady Anne Vaughan, was married to the Duke of Bolton. The first baron holding the present title was created Baron of Carbery, May 9th, 1715, on the visit of George I. The Algerines, who sacked Baltimore on the 20th June, 1631, did not interfere with Sherkin or its inhabitants ; most probably they, were in too great a hurry to escape with their illgotten booty. A regular fortification was erected on Shorkin, which was garrisoned in Queen Anne's time; near it were barracks, nearly all traces of
Sketches in Car ben/. 47

Internet Archive sketchesincarber00dono, Chapter 5

Bishop Owen MacEgan slain at River Bandon, buried at Timoleague

Timoleague · town · Cork · 1601

Owen MacEgan, appointed Vicar Apostolic of Ross in 1601, rallied Irish forces attacking Captain Taaffe's troops on the banks of the River Bandon after the battle of Kinsale. He was slain in the ensuing battle and his remains were buried at Timoleague Abbey, with a small cross in the wall marking the exact spot.

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were rallied and led on by Bishop Mac Egan. The issue of the battle was doubtful for a long time, and was fiercely contested until the brave Yicar was slain, after which occurrence the Irish forces were disheartened and retreated. The Bishop's remains were borne off the field of battle by 0 'Sullivan : he was buried at Timoleague Abbey, and a small cross indented in the wall near the north-western angle of the cloister commemorates the exact spot where rest the remains of the illustrious Mac Egan.
The first Protestant Bishop of Ross was "William Lyons, who was appointed to this see in 1582, and died 1617: he annexed it to the diocese of Cork, both of ■which since that period have formed conjointly a combined diocese.

Internet Archive sketchesincarber00dono, Chapter 15

As the companion tells it

As you come through Timoleague, the abbey here holds the remains of Bishop Owen MacEgan. In 1601, after the battle of Kinsale, MacEgan rallied Irish forces attacking Captain Taaffe's troops on the banks of the River Bandon. The battle was fiercely contested and the outcome doubtful for a long time, until the brave vicar was slain. After his death the Irish forces were disheartened and retreated. The Bishop's remains were borne off the field of battle by O'Sullivan. He was buried at Timoleague Abbey, and a small cross indented in the wall near the north-western angle of the cloister commemorates the exact spot where rest the remains of the illustrious Mac Egan.

Legend of Toumpleen-a-Fachtna's miraculous appearance

Ross Carbery · town · Cork

A legend relates that St. Fachnan forgot his prayer-book on a hillside half a mile east of Ross, and the next morning a small chapel had miraculously sprung up over the spot where he had prayed. The ruins of this oratory, called Toumpleen-a-Fachtna, measure only twelve by eight feet and are the only surviving building of St. Fachtna's time.

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The following legend is related of the saint:— " He was in the habit of praying daily on the side of a hill, about half-a-mile east of Ross. One evening he forgot his prayer-book, and the next morning, strange to say (the night had been rainy), a small chapel had sprung into existence immediately over the spot where the saint had prayed the day before. However that may be, the ruins of this little oratory, Toumpleen-a-Fachtna, are still extant. Its" proportions are on a limited scale, being only twelve feet long by eight feet broad. O'Donovan says that it is the only building of St. Fachtna's time now remaining. He differs in opinion also -from Harris and others, who assert that the old cathedral was erected by St. Fachtnan, and not by Mac Craith, in the tenth century, as O'Donovan states, quoting from the "BookofBallymote." Toumpleen-a-Fachtna was rebuilt about the year 1664 by a devotee who, in a fit of sickness, had made a vow to the saint that if he recovered he would build a chapel in his honour. There is a rough corner-stone in one of the walls commemorating this event as follows — "Ad gloriamDci, et hominum sahationem,,\ Sfc. — not easily deciphered. • In former times, on the 16th August, the patron day of the saint, great numbers of pilgrims frequented this spot, and removed a small portion of earth from the immediate neighbourhood of the oratory, which, . as a sort of amulet, was supposed by some to possess "
Sketches in Carbcry. 221

Internet Archive sketchesincarber00dono, Chapter 15

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Ross Carbery in Cork, there's a legend tied to the hillside just east of the town about St. Fachnan and a lost prayer-book. The saint was in the habit of praying daily on the side of a hill, about half a mile east of Ross. One evening he forgot his prayer-book, and the next morning, strange to say, a small chapel had sprung into existence immediately over the spot where the saint had prayed the day before. The night had been rainy, which makes the story all the more curious. The ruins of this little oratory, Toumpleen-a-Fachtna, are still extant. Its proportions are on a limited scale, being only twelve feet long by eight feet broad. O'Donovan says that it is the only building of St. Fachtna's time now remaining. He differs from Harris and others, who assert that the old cathedral was erected by St. Fachtnan, and not by Mac Craith in the tenth century, as O'Donovan states, quoting from the Book of Ballymote. Toumpleen-a-Fachtna was rebuilt about the year 1664 by a devotee who, in a fit of sickness, had made a vow to the saint that if he recovered he would build a chapel in his honour. There is a rough corner-stone in one of the walls commemorating this event. In former times, on the 16th of August, the patron day of the saint, great numbers of pilgrims frequented this spot, and removed a small portion of earth from the immediate neighbourhood of the oratory, which, as a sort of amulet, was supposed by some to possess...

O'Donnell departs Castlehaven for Spain, 1602

Castlehaven · townland · Cork · 1602

After the defeat at Kinsale, fresh Spanish supplies arrived at Castlehaven but returned to Spain on 6 January 1602, taking O'Donnell, Redmond, Burke and others. Hugh Roe O'Donnell took shipping at Castlehaven and was carried over the ocean, landing near Corunna in Galicia.

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renowned chieftain, to the " Annals of the Four Masters," and the "Lives of Illustrious and Distinguished Irishmen," hy James Wills, A. M., M. E. I. A. ; at the same time we feel inclined to diverge somewhat from the direct line of narrative, whilst following the fortunes of O'Donnell into Spain, and take a glance at the closing scenes in the life of this indomitahle warrior. In the words of the historian : "On the 6th day of the month of January, 1602, O'Donnell, with his heroes, took shipping at Cuan-an- Caslain (Castlehaven), and the hreath of the first wind that rose wafted them over the hoisterous ocean." They landed on the 14th of the same month in the harbour near Corunna, a celebrated city in the province of Grallicia, in Spain. This city has been made more memorable still in modern times by the battle fought in its neighbourhood, between the French and English, in January, 1809, when the renowned general Sir John Moore was mortally wounded.
Near Corunna was situated the tower of Breogan, built in former times by Breogan, the grandfather of Milesius. It was from this place the Milesians had set out, according to tradition, on their expedition to Ireland, where they conquered the Tuatha de Danaans, 1300 years before the Christian era. O'Donnell looked upon this as an omen of success, having landed in the country of his ancestors. He was received with great honour by the Earl of Caraceno, a powerful Spanish nobleman, who presented him with a thousand ducats (a very respectable present at the time), and conducted him with great state to Zamora, in Castile, where the king of Spain, Philip III., was then residing. O'Donnell was well received by Philip, who granted

Internet Archive sketchesincarber00dono

As the companion tells it

Somewhere around here, Castlehaven in Cork, Hugh Roe O'Donnell left Ireland for the last time. After the defeat at Kinsale, fresh Spanish supplies had arrived here, but on the 6th of January, 1602, they set sail for Spain, taking O'Donnell, Redmond, Burke and others with them. In the words of the historian, O'Donnell with his heroes took shipping at Castlehaven, and the breath of the first wind that rose wafted them over the boisterous ocean. Eight days later, on the 14th of January, they landed in the harbour near Corunna, a celebrated city in the province of Galicia in Spain. Near Corunna stood the tower of Breogan, built in former times by Breogan, the grandfather of Milesius. According to tradition, the Milesians had set out from this very place on their expedition to Ireland, where they conquered the Tuatha de Danaans 1300 years before the Christian era. O'Donnell looked upon landing there as an omen of success, having arrived in the country of his ancestors. He was received with great honour by the Earl of Caraceno, a powerful Spanish nobleman, who presented him with a thousand ducats and conducted him with great state to Zamora in Castile, where the king of Spain, Philip the Third, was then residing. O'Donnell was well received by Philip, who granted him

O'Driscoll raids on Waterford during 15th century

near Sherkin Island · townland · Cork · 1450–1500

Throughout the 15th century, the O'Driscolls of Sherkin sailed to Waterford and allied with the Powers family in attacks on the city for plunder. In 1450, a statute was enacted against Fineen O'Hedriescoll after divers of the King's subjects were slain.

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Innisherkin was destined to undergo, notwithstanding its remote position, the terrors of a hostile invasion. At various periods during the 15th century, the O'Driscolls, who were of a roving disposition, had sailed round to "Waterford, and allied themselves with the Powers of that county in attacks upon the city with the object of plunder — the fortune of war sometimes being favourable, and at other times adverse to their cause. " In the year 1450, stat. 28, Hen. IV., No. 10, it was enacted, as divers of the King's subjects had been slain by Fineen O'Hedriescoll, chieftain of the nation, that no person of the ports of "Waterford, "Wexford, &c, shall go within the country of the said O'Hedriescoll, under heavy penalties of forfeiture," &c. Matters readied a climax in the year 1537, owing to the following occurrence : —
" Ou the 20th February, 1537, four ships from Lisbon, with a cargo of wine on board, consigned to the Waterford merchants, were driven by stress of weather to Cape Clear, Baltimore, and the Old Head of Kinsale. One of the ships, the " Santa Maria De Soci," laden with 100 tuns of wine, took refuge in a bay near the entrance of Baltimore harbour, was boarded by Conoghar O'Driseoll, chieftain of Sherkin, and his sons, and piloted safely into Baltimore harbour, the stipulated reward for the pilotage being three pipes of wine." Such is the account given and recorded by Smith and others, who add that, the

Internet Archive sketchesincarber00dono, Chapter 5

Signal Tower erected after French arrival in Bantry Bay

Clear Island · island or archipelago · Cork · 1796–1797

A Signal Tower with fortress-like architecture was erected close to the old lighthouse on Cape Clear immediately after the French fleet arrived in Bantry Bay in 1796. A violent storm shortly after its erection rocked the tower so severely that the lieutenant and his small garrison were tempted to abandon it for fear of being buried in the ruins.

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A Signal Tower was erected close to where the lighthouse stands immediately after the arrival of the French in Ban try Bay. In appearance it presents the character of a fortress, and was evidently intended, judging from its architecture, to serve for military purposes, as well as for signalling. Shortly after its erection a violent storm occurred, and owing to its exposed situation, the tower was rocked and shaken so much by the wind, that the lieutenant in command and his little garrison were tempted strongly to desert the building for fear of being buried under the ruins. In connection with the Signal Tower I must refer to the Fir Bregach (False men, An g lice). These were long, upright stones, which were firmly imbedded in the ground, and occupied a prominent position at the south-west end of the island, close to the high cliffs which overhang the sea. In order to scare away any hostile force, which might have been tempted to invade the island, the very ingenious "ruse de guerre" was adopted of clothing these inanimate bodies, each with a suit of scarlet uniform, so that when observed from the sea they might be mistaken for a company of soldiers on the alert. They were placed in a position which they have maintained undisturbed for the last eighty years, having been planted about the same time the Signal Tower was erected. There can be no doubt but the "Fir Bregach," although they
[

Internet Archive sketchesincarber00dono

Franciscan Abbey and Dunnalong Castle on Sherkin Island

near Sherkin Island · townland · Cork · 1460

A Franciscan Abbey flourished on Sherkin Island during the 15th century. It was built in A.D. 1460 alongside the adjacent castle of Dunnalong (the ship castle) by Florence O'Driscoll, who was lord of Ross, Baltimore, and Sherkin Island.

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on the island is the Franciscan Abbey,' which flourished here during the 15th century. It was built, and at the same time also (A. D. 1460) the adjoiuing castle of Dunnalong (the ship castle) by Florence O'Driscoll, who, according to the historian Ware, was lord of the town of Eoss, of Baltimore, and of the island of Sherkin.
The Abbey is distinctly visible from Baltimore ; it is close to the water's edge, near the Abbey Strand. The adjoining ground is fertile, and the situation selected was both picturesque and convenient. It was built after the model of Kilcrea Abbey. The ruins (which are well worthy of a visit) consist of the nave, choir, tower, and south transept, the intervening wall being arcaded in a finished style with hewn free-stone, procured from a quarry on the island. In addition, we observe remains of the cloisters, refectory and dormitories, all in tolerably good preservation, but the destroying hand of time is slowly but surely crumbling into dust the relics of what formerlj^just have been a very graceful and ornamental building. When we enter within the precincts of the surrounding walls, the traditions of the past are immediately recalled; the cloisters and dormitories and the choir of the church, which has been occupied as a cemetery for the last two centuries, present a desolate and solemn appearance. On either side, in cells hollowed in the walis, are heaped up piles of human bones ; and around on the floor in every direction are rude slabs and headstones, sad mementoes of a past generation that sleeps beneath the ferns, and tangled weeds, and long, coarse grass, which spring up in rank' and wild luxuriance wherever we turn. A corner-stone near the east end of the building commemorates

Internet Archive sketchesincarber00dono, Chapter 4

Harrington's Lights near Skibbereen

Skibbereen · town · Cork

Mysterious luminous phenomena appeared in the cottage of a poor, sick man named Harrington, situated about two miles from Skibbereen on a desolate beach. The lights moved along the walls of the sick room and attracted visitors from across Cork and beyond, baffling all attempts to detect fraud or imposture.

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"Among the numerous visitors were ministers, men of science, families from their country seats, fox-hunters, and devotees, carriages, pedestrians, and horsemen. It was called at last the Skibbereen lights, and baffled every attempt of the clever and credulous to discover fraud or imposture. In the inner room, on a low bed, beside the wall, destitute of every comfort, lay the desolate Harrington, in the calm light of whose eye, and, in the composure of whose tone there was evidently no pain of conscience or depravity of heart. He said he was happy night and day though his suffering was great. He never solicited help or charity. The little he possessed seemed to be sufficient for his wants, and he did not seem to care for more. A -few of his visitors sometimes left a trifle behind them, but the greater part gave nothing. He was so emaciated that it seemed as if life could not long remain in such a frame ; the arm was but skin and bone, and after nearly a year had passed, those who saw him again were surprised to perceive the same emaciation. He was about thirty-five, and passed his time in reading and .
prayer, chiefly, it was said, in the latter

Internet Archive sketchesincarber00dono, Chapter 11

As the companion tells it

Up ahead is Skibbereen, the town the road passes through. About two miles from here, on a desolate beach, stood the cottage of a poor, sick man named Harrington. Strange lights moved along the walls of his room, and the phenomenon became known as the Skibbereen lights. They drew visitors from across Cork and beyond: ministers, men of science, families from their country seats, fox-hunters, devotees, carriages, pedestrians, and horsemen. All of them tried to find fraud or imposture, and all of them failed. Inside, on a low bed beside the wall, destitute of every comfort, lay Harrington himself. There was calm in his eye and composure in his tone, no sign of pain of conscience or depravity of heart. He said he was happy night and day, though his suffering was great. He never asked for help or charity. The little he had seemed enough, and he did not care for more. A few visitors left a trifle behind them, but most gave nothing. He was so emaciated it seemed life could not long remain in such a frame. His arm was skin and bone. Yet after nearly a year had passed, those who saw him again were surprised to find the same emaciation. He was about thirty-five, and passed his time in reading and prayer, chiefly, it was said, in the latter.

Thompson's eccentric reputation around Glandore

near Glandore · population centre · Cork

Thompson, a strict vegetarian and Red Republican sympathiser who had lived in France, used to walk about Glandore carrying a tricoloured flag. The country people regarded him as a sort of magician because he publicly exhibited chemical experiments.

Read the passage

One of Thompson's more practicable and reasonable speculations was the establishment of a Deep Sea Fishery Company to superintend and develop the fisheries along the south coast, making Glandore the chief depot and centre of action, but this, like the other projects, fell to the ground. In his will he bequeathed his body to his medical attendant, giving most minute particulars as to the preparation of the skeleton, and how the ribs were to be tipped with silver, that it might present a fashionable appearance. A phrenologist named Monsieur Baume came
Sketches in Carbery. 203

Internet Archive sketchesincarber00dono, Chapter 14

As the companion tells it

You're coming through Glandore now. Thompson was a figure here who once proposed a Deep Sea Fishery Company with Glandore as its chief depot, but the plan came to nothing, like his other projects. In his will he left his body to his medical attendant, with what the book calls

Women's tucking process on Cape Clear Island

Clear Island · island or archipelago · Cork

With no tucking-mill on Cape Clear Island due to the absence of suitable streams, women performed the laborious process of tucking frieze by sitting in pairs on hurdles and pushing the cloth against each other's feet with full force. Townsend's Statistical Survey of the County Cork documented this practice.

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has devolved on their fair associates, who perform it in the following manner: Upon a square hurdle, to keep the cloth from the dirt of the ground, eight women take their seats, four opposed to four, at such a distance as that the extended legs of one set just reach the drawn up feet of the other. The frieze placed between is pushed alternately by each party with as much force as they can exert against the feet of the other until, by frequent repetition of this laborious process, the piece is sufficiently tucked."
The sheep on Cape were formerly a peculiar variety, small in size, the flesh very delicate in flavour ; they had long, depending, twisted horns ; the wool was exceedingly fine, a fact attributed to the nature of the pasturage near the sea. The houses, or rather cabins, have the straw thatching, which is roughly laid on, eovered with an interwoven network of straw ropes (soogauns), tightly drawn across. To the free ends which hang over the eaves, either large stones are attached, or they are twisted securely around bolts, firmly imbedded in the walls. This contrivance is absolutely necessary to prevent the roofs being blown away by the fierce gales which prevail during the winter months.

Internet Archive sketchesincarber00dono

Castledonovan: O'Donovan stronghold blown up by Cromwellians

Castledonovan · townland · Cork · 1560–1650

Castledonovan in Drimoleague was the chief residence of the O'Donovans, built by Donnell I. O'Donovan around 1560. The castle was attacked by Cromwell's forces in 1650, blown up with gunpowder, and its walls still show great rents from the explosion; the garrison escaped to Limerick by night.

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The chief residence of the O'Donovans was Castledonovan, in Drimoleague, attached to which was ODonovan's seat in the same parish. The walls of Castledonovan are standing still. ODonovan says: "Great rents are visible still from the effects of lightning of gunpowder, as it is said to have been blown up with gunpowder by the Cromwellians. It stands upon a rock, and a spiral staircase runs up to the top. It is 42 feet long, 26 feet broad, and about 60 feet high." According to Collins, Castledonovan was built by Donnell I. O'Donovan, commonly called Domhnall na-g-Croiceann, who was chief of Clancahill, A. D. 1560. Others think that part of this castle was older than his time.
The walls of the castle are about six feet thick; the

Internet Archive sketchesincarber00dono, Chapter 11

Castletownsend castle siege of 1690

Castletownsend · townland · Cork · 1690

Castletownsend, anciently called Sleugleigh, was originally built by the M'Carthys. In 1690 James II's troops under O'Driscoll attacked the old castle but were repulsed and their commander slain; shortly afterwards Mac Fineen O'Driscoll with 400 men attacked and compelled the garrison to surrender, before Colonel Colliford retook the castle.

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Castletownsend, the original seat of the Townsend family in Ireland, was anciently called Sleugleigh (Smith), which was built originally by and belonged to the M'Carthys. The old castle, the ruins of which can be observed within the demesne, was attacked in the year 1690 by some of James the Second's troops, under the command of O'Driscoll. They were repulsed, and their commander slain ; but shortly afterwards Mac Fineen O'Driscoll, with a force of 400 men, attacked the place, and compelled the garrison to surrender ; subsequently Colonel Colliford attacked O'Driscoll, and retook the castle.
The scenery in the neighbourhood of Castlehaven is picturesque and diversified in its character. It can be seen to most advantage in the autumn of the year, when the foliage of the trees has assumed a varying tint from green to russet brown, and when

Internet Archive sketchesincarber00dono, Chapter 10

As the companion tells it

Somewhere close to Castletownsend, there was once a castle built by the M'Carthys. The old ruins can still be seen within the demesne here. In 1690, during the war of James the Second, his troops under O'Driscoll attacked the castle but were beaten back and their commander killed. Mac Fineen O'Driscoll then returned with 400 men, forced the garrison to surrender, and held the place until Colonel Colliford attacked and retook it.

Coppinger's Court attacked and burnt in 1641 wars

Ballyvireen · townland · Cork · 1641

Sir Walter Coppinger's plans to build a market town and convert the Rowry stream into a navigable canal were upset by the wars of 1641, when the house was attacked by an armed force, ransacked, and partially burnt down. Coppinger was known for his tyrannical rule over the surrounding peasantry.

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All his plans were upset by the wars of 1641, when the house was attacked by an armed force, ransacked, and partially burnt down. After this event we lose sight of Coppinger, so far as being unable to learn from recorded history any further particulars connected with his life.
From tradition the following information referring to his acts has been handed down to us. During his residence at Rowry he was chiefly distinguished by his tyrannical qualities. No Russian nobleman of former times lorded it over his serfs with such despotic sway as Coppinger over the surrounding .• peasantry.

Internet Archive sketchesincarber00dono, Chapter 14

As the companion tells it

Somewhere close to Ballyvireen are the remains of Coppinger's Court. Sir Walter Coppinger had planned to build a market town here and turn the Rowry stream into a navigable canal, but the wars of 1641 upset everything. An armed force attacked the house, ransacked it, and partially burnt it down. After that, recorded history goes quiet on Coppinger. Tradition remembers him as a tyrant over the surrounding peasantry, said to have ruled with a despotic sway.

Herd of whales in Castlehaven, winter 1855

Castlehaven · townland · Cork · 1855

During the severe winter of 1855, a large herd of about fifty caaing whales ran into Castlehaven and up the Reen River. The leader was harpooned by T. Atteridge of Castletownsend, but the tide receded and most whales were stranded on mud-banks, where country people dispatched them with hatchets and pikes.

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Since the visit of the Spaniards in the commencement of the 17th century, perhaps no event down to the present time has created more excitement amongst the inhabitants than the visit of a large herd of whales, which ran into Castlehaven during the winter of 1855, one of the severest winters on record in this country. They forced their way up the Eineen river, but—the tide receding left the greater number floundering on the mud-banks. The leader of the flock was harpooned near the harbour's mouth by the late T. Atteridge, Esq., of Castletownsend, but, instead of forcing his way out to sea, he steered his course up the river towards Eineen (almost the entire herd following in his wake to the number of about fifty), towing the boat after him at railway speed. The leader measured twenty-five feet in length. The whales were of a species, small in size, called the round-headed Eorpoise or Caaing whale (Phocaena Melas). The people from the country round assembled in large numbers, and with hatchets, harpoons, pikes, and any weapons they could seize on, soon despatched their captives : how-
11

Internet Archive sketchesincarber00dono, Chapter 10

As the companion tells it

somewhere around here in Castlehaven, a large herd of whales came ashore during the winter of 1855, one of the severest winters on record in this country. Since the visit of the Spaniards at the start of the 17th century, perhaps no event created more excitement among the inhabitants. The whales forced their way up the Eineen river. The tide receding left the greater number floundering on the mud-banks. The leader of the flock was harpooned near the harbour's mouth by T. Atteridge of Castletownsend. Instead of forcing his way out to sea, he steered his course up the river towards Eineen, almost the entire herd following in his wake to the number of about fifty, towing the boat after him at railway speed. The leader measured 25 feet in length. The whales were of a species small in size, called the round-headed porpoise or caaing whale. The people from the country round assembled in large numbers, and with hatchets, harpoons, pikes, and any weapons they could seize on, soon despatched their captives.

Kilbrittain Castle and the white ferret tradition

near Kilbrittain · street · Cork · 1035

Kilbrittain Castle near Timoleague was originally the seat of the De Courceys, Lords of Kinsale, with the date 1035 deciphered on its walls. A tradition relates that a De Courcey borrowed a white ferret from M'Carthy Reagh, pledging the castle as security; when the ferret died, M'Carthy became lord of the manor.

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Smith says of the eight families of royal extraction of this period in the county of Cork, four belonged to Carbery, viz.: — The MacCarthys, O'Mahonys, O'Driscolls, and O'Donovans. A. D. 1232 Cormac Grott, third son of M'Carthy Mor, invaded and acquired supreme power over this territory, and his descendants established a sort of dynasty, the head of the family Mac Carthy Eeagh (swarthy) was styled Prince of Carbery, his chief residence being Kilbrittain Castle, near Timoleague, the original seat of the De Courceys, Lords of Kinsale, who came to Ireland first in the reign of Henry II. According to good authority the date of its erection was 1035, which has been plainly deciphered on the walls of the castle. A strange story is related how one of the M'Carthy Reaghs became possessed of Kilbrittain. One of the De Courceys borrowed a white ferret from M'Carthy, and allowed the latter to hold the castle pro tern, as a security for the loan of the ferret. The animal died whilst in De Courcey's possession, and Mac Carthy, according to stipulation, became Lord of Kilbrittain Manor. Such is the story or tradition.
In the beginning of the 17th century the O'Dris-

Internet Archive sketchesincarber00dono, Chapter 2

As the companion tells it

Somewhere about Kilbrittain stands a castle whose walls bear the date 1035, plainly deciphered. It was the original seat of the De Courceys, Lords of Kinsale, who came to Ireland in the reign of Henry II. A strange tradition tells how the castle passed from them to the M'Carthy Reaghs. One of the De Courceys borrowed a white ferret from M'Carthy Reagh, and allowed him to hold the castle as security for the loan of the ferret. The animal died while in De Courcey's possession, and M'Carthy, according to stipulation, became Lord of Kilbrittain Manor. The head of the M'Carthy Reagh family was styled Prince of Carbery, and this castle became his chief residence. In 1232, Cormac Grott, third son of M'Carthy Mor, invaded and acquired supreme power over this territory, and his descendants established a sort of dynasty. Smith records that of the eight families of royal extraction in the county of Cork at this period, four belonged to Carbery: the MacCarthys, the O'Mahonys, the O'Driscolls, and the O'Donovans.

Sherkin Island ravaged by Waterford forces, 1537

near Sherkin Island · townland · Cork · 1537

In retaliation for the plunder of their ships, Waterford sent 300 men under Captain Woodlock who landed on Sherkin Island, ravaged it, destroyed its villages and a Franciscan friary, and burned O'Driscoll's galleys.

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out an armed expedition against this place. Some ships, laden with wine from Portugal and consigned to Waterford, were driven ashore in a tempest on the neighbouring coast. These ships were plundered by Fineen O'Driscoll and his sons, who were the chieftains of Baltimore at the time. When intelligence of this outrage reached Waterford, great indignation prevailed, and the mayor of that city immediately sent a force of 300 men under the command of a Captain Woodlock to resent the injury. They landed in Sherkin, ravaged the island, destroyed the villages and a Franciscan friary which had been established there, and also besieged a fortress called the Castle of Dun along, which they took by storm. They burnt all the galleys and pinnaces belonging to O'Driscoll, set fire to Baltimore, and attacked the ancient Castle of Dunashad, the ruins of which may be observed at the present day, commanding a fine view of the harbour.
Smith in his " History of Cork" describes a curious incident connected with the attack on this old castle. " A William Grant, one of the seamen, was on the top of the castle, which, being all on fire under him, he stood upon a pinnacle and cried out for assistance. One Butler tied a small cord to an arrow, and shot it up to Grant, by means of which cord he drew up a rope, which he fastened to the pinnacle, and slid down safe to his companions, after which the army arrived safe in Waterford."

Internet Archive sketchesincarber00dono, Chapter 3

Sir Thomas Crooke's plantation and charter at Baltimore, 1613

Baltimore · town · Cork · 1613

Sir Fineen O'Driscoll leased Baltimore and the entire Collymore territory to Sir Thomas Crooke for twenty-one years for £2,000. Crooke planted a colony, procured a charter of incorporation from James I in 1613, and became the first MP for Baltimore.

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oordiug to O'Donovan, Sir Pineen let Baltimore and the entire of the Collymore territory to Sir Thomas Crooke (one of the undertakers, who planted a colony in Baltimore) for twenty-one years, for a fine of £2,000 sterling, and he thus prohahly laid the foundation of a forfeiture." Crooke procured a charter of incorporation from James L, A. D. 1613, and was the first M. P. for Baltimore, in which capacity he took a prominent position in the Parliamentary debates in Dublin at that period.
After his death, and before the lease had expired, Coppinger prosecuted his title, a very doubtful one it must have been, and got, by reference, an order out of Chancery against the heirs of O'Driscoll. The Sovereign, or Mayor of Baltimore, the Burgesses, and the inhabitants, with the heir of Sir Fineen, petitioned Government, and stated their grievances at full length. Coppinger, in the meantime, after the justices had issued a commission to Sir "William Hull, Mr. Henry Becher, and Mr. Barham to examine into the case, made a private contract with Becher, and granted him a lease of tha whole. Another complaint followed from the Baltimore Sovereign. Coppinger was summoned, and confined to Dublin Castle for contempt of court, and Becher, although one of the commissioners, was considered equally culpable. Fortunately for Becher, however, he had as a particular friend, the celebrated Richard Boyle, first Earl of Cork, who gave him salutary advice, and also fixity of tenure, regarding the fisheries, with the admonition that they might all go peacably home and abide by. the decision.— (See Smith.)

Internet Archive sketchesincarber00dono, Chapter 8

As the companion tells it

You are coming through Baltimore now. In 1613, this place stood at the centre of a bitter struggle over land and inheritance. Sir Fineen O'Driscoll had leased Baltimore and the whole Collymore territory to Sir Thomas Crooke for 21 years, taking a fine of £2,000 sterling. Crooke was one of the undertakers who planted a colony in Baltimore. He procured a charter of incorporation from James I in 1613 and became the first member of Parliament for Baltimore, taking a prominent position in the parliamentary debates in Dublin at that time. After his death, and before the lease had expired, a man named Coppinger prosecuted his title against the heirs of O'Driscoll. The title was a doubtful one. Coppinger got an order out of Chancery by reference. The Sovereign, or Mayor, of Baltimore, the Burgesses, and the inhabitants, along with the heir of Sir Fineen, petitioned the Government and stated their grievances at full length. The justices issued a commission to Sir William Hull, Mr Henry Becher, and Mr Barham to examine into the case. Coppinger, in the meantime, made a private contract with Becher and granted him a lease of the whole. Another complaint followed from the Baltimore Sovereign. Coppinger was summoned and confined to Dublin Castle for contempt of court. Becher, although one of the commissioners, was considered equally culpable. Becher had as a particular friend the celebrated Richard Boyle, first Earl of Cork, who gave him salutary advice and fixity of tenure regarding the fisheries, with the admonition that they might all go peaceably home and abide by the decision.

Sir Walter Coppinger's seizure of O'Driscoll estates

Baltimore · town · Cork · 1603–1631

Sir Walter Coppinger, originally a valet to Sir Fineen O'Driscoll, intruded upon the O'Driscoll possessions after the Queen's death and prosecuted his title through Chancery. He was eventually forced to give up Baltimore and was confined in Dublin Castle for contempt of orders.

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"When the Queen, being informed of it," says Smith, "pardoned his joining the Spaniards, and sent for him to Court, but before he arrived the Queen died, and during his absence the greater part of his possessions were intruded into by Sir Walter Coppinger, which caused this ancient family (the O'Driscolls) to fall to decay."
Sir Fineen is said to have died in England just as he was about to start for home. His death is however shrouded in mystery.

Internet Archive sketchesincarber00dono, Chapter 14

As the companion tells it

Passing through Baltimore, this was once O'Driscoll country. Sir Fineen O'Driscoll had joined the Spaniards. The Queen pardoned him and sent for him to Court, but she died before he arrived. During his absence Sir Walter Coppinger, who had been his valet, seized the greater part of his possessions. Smith says this caused the O'Driscolls to fall to decay. Sir Fineen died in England just as he was about to start for home, his death shrouded in mystery.

Spanish reinforcement arrives at Castlehaven, 1601

Castlehaven · townland · Cork · 1601

On 28 November 1601, six Spanish ships with 2,000 men and abundant supplies arrived at Castlehaven under Don Pedro de Zuibar. Donough O'Driscoll, Lord of Castlehaven, delivered up his castle to the Spaniards, and chieftains in Baltimore and Bearhaven followed his example.

Read the passage

Spaniards, amounting to 5,000 men, landed in Kinsale, on the 23rd September, under the command of Don Juan d'Aquila, in order to assist the Irish chieftains, who had been anxiously awaiting for some months back this welcome addition to their forces. The Spaniards seized on Kinsale and Rincorran, a castle on the opposite side of the harbour, but were soon closely besieged by the Lord Deputy Mountjoy and the Lord President Sir George Carew. On the 28th November, 1601, a reinforcement of six Spanish ships, with 2,000 men on board, and stores, ordnance, and ammunition in abundance, ' arrived in Castlehaven, under the command of Don Pedro de Zuibar, upon which occurrence all the country from Kinsale westward declared for the Spaniards. Donough O'Driscoll, who was Lord of Castlehaven at the time, delivered up his castle to them, and his example was followed by the chieftains in Baltimore, Bearhaven, &c, to whom presents and munitions of war were sent by the Spanish commander, and titles and posts of command bestowed upon them. "When news reached Kinsale that the Spaniards had landed in Castlehaven, Admiral Levison, who was in command of the naval squadron in the former place, immediately sailed out of the harbour, and proceeded to Castlehaven, where he arrived on the 6th December, 1601, and attacked the Spanish Admiral. During the engagement he drove the ships of the Admiral, Yice- Admiral, and two others on shore, but having gone aground himself, owing to contrary winds, he lay exposed for twenty-four hours, to a battery, which had been* erected by the Spaniards, on shore. During this time he received 300 shot in his masts, hull and rigging, but, the wind taking a favourable change, he warped
Sketches in Carberp. 1.33

Internet Archive sketchesincarber00dono

As the companion tells it

Somewhere close to Castlehaven, a Spanish reinforcement came ashore in 1601. The wider story begins earlier that autumn, on the 23rd of September, when 5,000 Spaniards under Don Juan d'Aquila landed at Kinsale to assist the Irish chieftains, who had been waiting months for them. They seized Kinsale and Rincorran, a castle on the far side of the harbour, but were soon closely besieged by the Lord Deputy Mountjoy and the Lord President Sir George Carew. On the 28th of November, 1601, six Spanish ships arrived here at Castlehaven, carrying 2,000 men and stores, ordnance, and ammunition in abundance, under the command of Don Pedro de Zuibar. Upon this, all the country from Kinsale westward declared for the Spaniards. Donough O'Driscoll, Lord of Castlehaven, delivered up his castle to them, and the chieftains in Baltimore and Bearhaven followed his example. The Spanish commander sent them presents and munitions of war, and bestowed titles and posts of command upon them. When news reached Kinsale that the Spaniards had landed at Castlehaven, Admiral Levison, commanding the naval squadron there, sailed out at once. He arrived on the 6th of December, 1601, and attacked the Spanish Admiral. He drove the ships of the Admiral, the Vice-Admiral, and two others on shore. But he went aground himself, owing to contrary winds, and lay exposed for twenty-four hours to a battery the Spaniards had erected on shore. He took 300 shot in his masts, hull, and rigging. The wind then turned favourable, and he warped out.

The Bath Riots near Baltimore during Poor Law resistance

Baltimore · town · Cork · 1836–1846

When the poor laws were first established, the farming and labouring classes of the Baltimore locality organized resistance to the collection of poor rates. A force of police under stipendiary magistrate Mr. Gore Jones and sub-inspector Mr. Richard Brew was sent to protect the rate collector; a collision near Bath chapel resulted in the police firing, killing two men and severely wounding two others.

Read the passage

Before finishing my remarks on Baltimore, I must refer to one of the only incidents of any importance connected with the modern history of the place — viz. the Bath Biots, or, as they are sometimes magniloquently styled, " The Battle of Bath," which is familiar to the memories of many of my readers. When the poor laws were first established, about thirty years ago, a spirit of great dissatisfaction was evinced by the farming and labouring classes of this locality, and a determined opposition organized to resist the collection of the ra^es. A large force of police, under the command of a Mr. Gore Jones, stipendiary magistrate, and a Mr. Bichard Brew, sub-inspector, was sent to protect the rate collector. An attempt was made to distrain a few head of cattle from some of the resisting parties near Bath chapel ; opposition was offered on the part of the people, a collision took place, the police fired, and two men were killed and two severely wounded. After this unfortunate occurrence, all opposition to the poor laws ceased, and the poor rates have ever since been collected without any show of resistance.
Appended is a list of some of the most prominent M. B.s, who represented Baltimore from the seventeenth century to the beginning of the nineteenth ; —

Internet Archive sketchesincarber00dono, Chapter 3

As the companion tells it

As you come near Baltimore, this is a town with a piece of modern history worth knowing. About thirty years before this book was written, when the poor laws were first established, the farming and labouring classes of this locality showed great dissatisfaction and organized determined opposition to resist the collection of the rates. A large force of police was sent to protect the rate collector, under the command of Mr. Gore Jones, a stipendiary magistrate, and Mr. Richard Brew, a sub-inspector. An attempt was made to distrain a few head of cattle from some of the resisting parties near Bath chapel. Opposition was offered, a collision took place, the police fired, and two men were killed and two severely wounded. After this, all opposition to the poor laws ceased, and the poor rates have ever since been collected without any show of resistance. The author calls this the Bath Riots, or sometimes the Battle of Bath.

Ancient fort at Lakelands near Skibbereen

near Lakelands · street · Tipperary

The fort at Lakelands, near Skibbereen, is described as very important and in perfect preservation, with concentric high earthen ramparts and a deep intervening fosse that could be artificially flooded with water when danger threatened. Stunted oak trees presently occupy the fosse, giving the structure a venerable appearance.

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formerly called Letteranlis, &c. The fort at Lakelands appears to have been a very important one, and is in perfect preservation ; the concentric high earthen ramparts, with the deep intervening fosse, (which was capable of being artificially flooded with water when danger threatened) are on an extensive scale, and a surrounding circle of stunted oak trees at present occupies the fo?se, imparting a venerable appearance to the entire structure.
Smith refers to subterranean caverns, which were casually discovered in his time, in the vicinity of Rosscarbery, and which obtained so much notoriety that he has taken the trouble of making some drawings of them in his "History of Cork; " he has also alluded to some very interesting ones in the parish of Aghabolotme, near Macroom. With regard to those near Ross, whicb were opened about the year 1760, he states: — "As some people were lately digging for clay near the Cathedral Church, Rosscarbery, a deep subterraneous cavity appeared, which seemed to lead to some caverns that were discovered about thirty years before at the west end of the town, which were two hundred yards from the hole now opened. By descending, several oval chambers were discovered, being mostly twelve feet long and six bsoad, having long narrow passages leading from one to the other. These passages were but eighteen inches broad and three feet high, so that it was necessary to creep from cell to cell. At one end of each chamber stood a broad flag-stone, resembling the back-stone of a fire place. The roof of each cell consisted of a Gothic arch, formed of a stiff clay, from the centre of which to the ground it was no more than five feet two inches high. The walls were made of stone, smoothly plastered, and the whole lined with soot, so that fires had been

Internet Archive sketchesincarber00dono, Chapter 4

Dunanore Castle captured by Captain Roger Harvey, 1601

Doonanore Castle · castle · Cork · 1601

On 22 March 1601, Captain Roger Harvey captured Dunanore Castle together with the rest of the island, using artillery planted on high ground to compel the garrison to surrender and batter down the eastern wall. Harvey was granted a commission by Lord Deputy Mountjoy as Governor of Carbery for his services.

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"We cannot delay, however, over such sesthetic • pursuits, and must return again to the castle of Dunanore and the fortunes of Sir Fineen O'Driscoll. Dunanore Castle was captured, together with the rest of the island, on the 22nd of March, 1601, by Captain Roger Harvey. For these, and other services, he was granted a commission at the time by Lord Deputy Mountjoy as Governor of Carbeiy. By means of artillery, which Harvey planted on the high ground adjoining the castle, he compelled the garrison to surrender, and battered down the eastern wall of the castle. A tradition prevailed for a long time that Dunanore, as its name would imply, was a place where a golden treasure had been buried, and a story is current that, many years ago, in the reign of Queen Anne, when a garrison of soldiers was stationed in Cape Clear, one of the soldiers — whose greed for wealth was excited by the stories he had heard of large treasures being secreted beneath the foundations of the Golden Fort—proceeded to work with might and main to discover the hidden treasure; however, his labours were unrequited. Although he excavated the soil to the level of the sea, no hidden treasure ever met his anxious gaze, except the sand and shells of the sea. The opening in the ground is still pointed out where the disappointed red-coat commenced his fruitless labours.
The islanders recount the following supernatural stories regarding Dunanore, which they firmly believe to be haunted. On more than one occasion a

Internet Archive sketchesincarber00dono, Chapter 8

Harrington's Lights: mysterious luminous phenomenon at Glandore

near Glandore · population centre · Cork · 1828–1839

Mysterious lights were reported in the cabin of a dying man named Harrington in a village on the harbour of Glandore, attracting widespread attention from the 1820s onward. Some observers attributed the lights to miraculous interposition of Heaven, others to the black art, and the splendour of the sightings was regarded as a test of the worthiness of the beholder.

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"This discrepancy led many to attribute these igneous wonders to supernatural agency, and the splendour with which they were seen was regarded as a test of the worthiness of the beholder. I would not consider this opinion deserving of a serious refutation, were it not that it was entertained by many well-educated and otherwise intelligent individuals, and under these circumstances I beg to be excused for digressing into the province of the divine to discuss the question of their miraculous origin.
"To constitute a miracle there must be an interruption of the ordinary laws of nature, but the lights in question were obedient to the laws by which luminous bodies are governed, viz., that the fainter are eclipsed by the more brilliant, as to render them

Internet Archive sketchesincarber00dono, Chapter 11

As the companion tells it

Coming up now is Glandore, a village on the harbour here in west Cork. Back in the 1820s this place drew crowds for something strange. A dying man named Harrington had lights appearing in his cabin, and people came from all around to see them. Some called it the miraculous interposition of Heaven, others blamed the black art. The splendour of the lights was said to be a test of the worthiness of the beholder. Well-educated people took it seriously, but the author of the account noted that the lights obeyed the ordinary laws of luminous bodies, the fainter eclipsed by the more brilliant, and so could not properly be called a miracle.

John Collins, poet and schoolmaster of Myross

Myross · townland · Cork · 1754

John Collins, born about 1754 at Kilmeen north of Clonakilty, was a self-educated village schoolmaster who taught in Myross and composed beautiful Irish-language poems including 'The Buachaill Bawn' and 'An Ode on Timoleague Abbey.' Known as 'The Silver Tongue of Munster,' he was styled by O'Donovan as the last Irish scholar, historiographer, and poet of Carbery.

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in that line, having no vocation for a clerical life. He ultimately during his rambles took up his residence in Myross, where he taught school for a considerable period, and in which place he composed several beautiful poems in the Irish language, amongst others — "The Buachaill JBawn," "An Ode on Timoleague Abbey," very much admired (translated by Ferguson), and a translation in Irish of that charming poem of Campbell's, " The Exile of Erin," which Irish scholars say excels the original.
The following is a translation of a portion of the " Buachaill Bawn," by Erionnache. One verse only is given, merely to convey some idea, although a faint one, of Collins's poetry. Irish poems do not admit well as a rule of being translated into English, both languages being so dissimilar in sound, mode of expression, &c. : —

Internet Archive sketchesincarber00dono, Chapter 11

Lough Erral's cleansing waters on Cape Clear

Clear Island · island or archipelago · Cork · 1775

Lough Erral, a fresh-water lake nearly a mile in circumference on Cape Clear Island, contained a large quantity of subcarbonate of soda that gave its water remarkable cleansing properties. An analysis was conducted by Dr. Rutty of Dublin in 1775, and islanders used the water for purifying and whitening linen yarns and coarse friezes.

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The water possesses cleansing properties to a remarkable degree ; this is owing to tbe very large quantity of subcarbonate of soda which it holds in solution, as proved by analysis made as far back as 1775, by Dr. Rutty, of Dublin, an eminent chemist of that period. The saponaceous qualities of the water are so strong that if a cask, in which oil has been kept, is placed in the lake for a few days, the cask, when taken out, is perfectly clean, and free from all traces of oil. The islanders formerly, when flax used to be grown on the island, extensively utilized the water of Lough Erral for purifying and whitening their linen yarns, which thereby acquired a very perfect quality and superior character. The coarse friezes which they also manufactured were submitted to a similar cleansing process. Townsend, in his " Statistical Survey of the County Cork," describing the rude process of tucking, which the female portion of the community were obliged to adopt, there being no tucking-mill on the island, as there is no stream capable of turning a wheel, says : — " The business of the field or the fishery engrossing the attention of the men, the operation of tucking
Sketches m Carberi/. ill

Internet Archive sketchesincarber00dono

The Cathach: Battle Book of the O'Donnells

Dublin · city · Dublin

The Royal Irish Academy holds an ancient casket containing a fragment of a copy of the Psalms written by St. Columbkille, called 'The Cathach' or Battle Book of the O'Donnells. The O'Donnells carried it in the van of battle, and a prophecy held that as long as it remained uncaptured they could not sustain defeat.

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One of the most interesting relics in the Royal Irish Academy is the ancient casket which contains a fragment of a copy of the Psalms written by St. Columbkille. The casket consists of three cases, the outer one of which is of solid silver, beautifully designed, and studded over with precious gems. The enclosed manuscript, which is thirteen centuries old, was styled, " The Cathach or Battle Book of the O'Donnells," and was carried in the van by them when going into battle. There was a prophecy current that as long as "The Cathach" remained uncaptured the O'Donnells could not sustain defeat.
L

Internet Archive sketchesincarber00dono, Chapter 10

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Dublin, the city holds one of the most interesting relics in the Royal Irish Academy. It is an ancient casket containing a fragment of a copy of the Psalms written by St. Columbkille. The casket has three cases, the outer one solid silver, beautifully designed and studded with precious gems. The manuscript inside is thirteen centuries old. It was styled "The Cathach" or Battle Book of the O'Donnells, and they carried it in the van when going into battle. A prophecy was current that as long as The Cathach remained uncaptured, the O'Donnells could not sustain defeat.

Waterford ships plundered by Fineen O'Driscoll at Baltimore, 1537

Baltimore · town · Cork · 1537

In 1537, ships laden with wine from Portugal and consigned to Waterford were driven ashore in a tempest near Baltimore and plundered by Fineen O'Driscoll and his sons, the chieftains of Baltimore at the time.

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out an armed expedition against this place. Some ships, laden with wine from Portugal and consigned to Waterford, were driven ashore in a tempest on the neighbouring coast. These ships were plundered by Fineen O'Driscoll and his sons, who were the chieftains of Baltimore at the time. When intelligence of this outrage reached Waterford, great indignation prevailed, and the mayor of that city immediately sent a force of 300 men under the command of a Captain Woodlock to resent the injury. They landed in Sherkin, ravaged the island, destroyed the villages and a Franciscan friary which had been established there, and also besieged a fortress called the Castle of Dun along, which they took by storm. They burnt all the galleys and pinnaces belonging to O'Driscoll, set fire to Baltimore, and attacked the ancient Castle of Dunashad, the ruins of which may be observed at the present day, commanding a fine view of the harbour.
Smith in his " History of Cork" describes a curious incident connected with the attack on this old castle. " A William Grant, one of the seamen, was on the top of the castle, which, being all on fire under him, he stood upon a pinnacle and cried out for assistance. One Butler tied a small cord to an arrow, and shot it up to Grant, by means of which cord he drew up a rope, which he fastened to the pinnacle, and slid down safe to his companions, after which the army arrived safe in Waterford."

Internet Archive sketchesincarber00dono, Chapter 3

As the companion tells it

Coming up now is Baltimore, the town here on the coast. In 1537, ships laden with wine from Portugal and consigned to Waterford were driven ashore in a tempest on the neighbouring coast. Fineen O'Driscoll and his sons, the chieftains of Baltimore, plundered the wrecks. When word reached Waterford, the mayor sent 300 men under Captain Woodlock to punish them. They landed on Sherkin Island, ravaged it, destroyed the villages and a Franciscan friary there, and stormed the Castle of Dun along. They burnt all of O'Driscoll's galleys and pinnaces, set fire to Baltimore itself, and attacked the ancient Castle of Dunashad, whose ruins can still be seen commanding the harbour. During that assault, a sailor named William Grant was trapped on the burning castle roof, standing on a pinnacle crying for help. One Butler tied a small cord to an arrow and shot it up to him. Grant used the cord to pull up a rope, fastened it, and slid down to safety, after which the army returned safe to Waterford.

Abbeystrowry Church ruins and famine burials

Abbeystrowry · townland · Cork · 1845–1866

The fragmentary ruins of Abbeystrowry Church stand near Skibbereen, on the site of a 12th-century Cistercian abbey branch. John Bright visited during the famine years and described standing on ground where countless famine victims lay buried.

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parish of Myross, A. D. 1172, by Dermot M'Cormac McCarthy, who was king of Cork at that period; hence the parish derives its name. Smith, in his "History of Cork," writing about a hundredy ears ago, states that in his time, although even then the traces above ground of both Abbeys had disappeared, " upon digging beneath the soil, the foundations of the Abbey de Sancto Mauro, or the Fonte Yivo, at Myross, and also a large cemetery with quantities of human bones were discovered." A visit was made to Abbeystrowry during the famine years by the celebrated John Bright, to which he refers in one of his speeches at Dublin, in the year 1866 ; and he describes, with emotion, how he stood on that ground, where countless numbers lay buried around him, the victims of that fearful famine, which swept like a desolating hurricane over the country.
We must leave, however, these melancholy traditions of the past behind us, " familiar in our mouths as household words," and pursue our voyage onwards, noting each matter of interest as we pass along. Occasionally we catch a glimpse, at New Court and Creagh, of bright patches of green verdure, which show a proof of careful cultivation, and rich verdant spots, in the hollows of the rocks here and there, which contrast favourably with the brown, heathy moorland, the dingy-looking bogs, and the unreclaimed margins, where furze and rushes, weeds and stagnant water assert their unproductive sway. It realizes at once, to the inquisitive gaze, the rightful title to the term " Emerald Isle," which Ireland claims as specially her own, and also clearly and conclusively proves how completely the reclamation of the waste land by draining, &c, can metamorphose rocks and bogs, and acres, covered with moss and

Internet Archive sketchesincarber00dono, Chapter 4

As the companion tells it

Somewhere around here stand the fragmentary ruins of Abbeystrowry Church, near Skibbereen, on the site of a 12th-century Cistercian abbey branch. In the year 1172, Dermot M'Cormac McCarthy, who was king of Cork at that period, founded a religious house in the parish of Myross. Smith, in his History of Cork, writing about a hundred years ago, states that in his time, even then, the traces above ground of both abbeys had disappeared. He says:

Macroom Castle burned and Bishop Mac Egan captured, 1650

Macroom · town · Cork · 1650

In 1650, Lord Broghill marched to attack Bishop Boetius Mac Egan's forces. The Irish troops set fire to Macroom Castle and joined their main army encamped in the park. Broghill made a sudden attack, defeated the Irish, and captured Bishop Mac Egan, who was subsequently executed after urging the Carrigadrohid garrison to hold out.

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At Broghill's approach the Irish troops set fire to Macroom Castle, and joined their main army, which was encamped in the park. Broghill making a sudden attack, defeated the forces opposed to him, and captured Bishop Mac Egan, whom he promised to pardon, if he advised the garrison at Carrigadrohid to surrender. The bishop, however, with the courage of an ancient Roman, and a contempt for death
221 Sketches in Garbery.

Internet Archive sketchesincarber00dono, Chapter 15

Old lighthouse at Eoile Cahill, Cape Clear

Clear Island · island or archipelago · Cork

A lighthouse was formerly erected by the Corporation for Improving the Port of Dublin on the highest cliff of Cape Clear Island, at 480 feet above sea level. It exhibited a revolving light of 21 lamps visible at 28 nautical miles, but was condemned due to fog obscuring the light at high elevation; the lantern was removed and relocated to the Fastnet Rock.

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A short distance westward along the coast brings us to the summit of the highest cliff in the island (Eoile Cahill), and here, at an elevation of 480 feet above the sea, a lighthouse was formerly erected by the Corporation for Improving the Port of Dublin. It exhibited a bright revolving light of 21 lamps, of which seven became visible every two minutes. In clear weather the light was seen from all points out to sea at a distance of 28 nautical miles. Unfortunately, however, in foggy weather, owing to the high elevation, the light was greatly obscured by cloud and mist, rendering this very indispensable lighthouse for' the time being comparatively useless to ships _ approaching the land. Consequently the place was condemned, the lantern removed, and the present lighthouse — the most important on the Irish coast — erected, about five miles from Cape, on' the celebrated Fastnett Rock, which looks in the distance like the culminating point of a submerged mountain, and on which rock, in former times, many a shipwreck took place.
The old lighthouse was constructed with great care, and no expense appears to have been spared : the building materials were solely stone and iron. The floors and spiral staircase are composed of granite brought specially from Dublin. The pyramidal and circular blocks of granite in each floor are so carefully and evenly adjusted, as to resemble a Mosaic pavement. Iron girders, and stanchions support, and give wonderful strength to the walls and lofts. On,

Internet Archive sketchesincarber00dono

O'Mahony and O'Donovan castles near Schull

Skull · town · Cork

The O'Mahonys and O'Donovans built many castles and strongholds among the crags of rocky islands seaward of Schull, the ruins of which remain full of beauty and interest. A graveyard near Roaring Water, looking out upon restless waters, is described as the most historic spot in the locality.

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" This graveyard, looking out upon the restless waters from its quiet elevation, must remain for ages the most historic spot in the locality, although Skull is not without a history and historic remains. Many a castle and stronghold have the O'Mahonvs and O'Donovana built among the crags of the rocky islands, which are grouped in such variety to seaward, the ruins of which are to-day full of beauty and interest for the tourist. But surely the day will come when those crumbling ruins shall be once again a portion of the -common soil, nameless and forgotten ; but distant though the day may be, Skull and Skibbereen, those two famine-slain Sisters of the South, must still be found on the page of Irish history, illustrating the great famine of 1847."
1

Internet Archive sketchesincarber00dono, Chapter 7

Patterns, fairs and faction-fights at Gortroe near Lough Adereen

Gortroe · townland · Cork

Patterns and fairs were held on the townland of Gortroe on the east side of Lough Adereen, featuring music, dancing and feasting. Families of the parish of Kilmacabea used these gatherings to test their skill with the shillelagh, which often escalated into deadly faction-fights.

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at the present day. Close to the lake is pointed out a spot where once was an altar. It was also the custom to tie pieces of cloth to a neighbouring bush, and bring portions of bread and meal with which to feed the fish of the lake. Patterns and fairs were also held here on the east side of the lake, on a townland called Gortroe, and on these occasions, music, dancing, and feastings were the order of the day, which generally wound up with faction-fights or a general scrimmage.
The various septs, and families in the parish of Kilmacabea made use of the fairs and patterns as opportunities for testing their comparative merits in the handling of the shillelagh. The place was very convenient, too, for such engagements, as blackthorns and oak-sticks grew abundantly in the neighbourhood. However, from use of the stick, when longcontinued disputes had fired their blood, and roused a sanguinary spirit, they proceeded to the adoption of deadlier weapons — guns, swords, bayonets, and pikes.

Internet Archive sketchesincarber00dono, Chapter 14

Rahine Castle: O'Donovan castle bombarded by Cromwellian ships

Rahine · townland · Cork · 1584–1649

Rahine Castle in Myross, built by Donnell II. O'Donovan after 1584, stands close to the water's edge facing Castletownsend. During 1649 the lands about Rahine were ravaged by the Cromwellians, and the castle was likely bombarded by ships in the harbour, as cannonballs remain imbedded in its walls.

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Donnell III. O'Donovan, who flourished during the middle of the 17th century, was a man distinguished both in war and peace, admired by his friends and respected by his enemies. He died in the year 1660. He was a strict loyalist, and joined during the Cromwellian wars the Earl of Castlehaven, who was commander-in-chief of the royalists in Ireland at that period. His principal castle in Myross was Bahine, which was head of a manor in 1607. According to Collins, this castle was built by Donnell II. O'Donovan, who succeeded his father, Donnell L, in 1584. Bahine castle is situated close to the water's edge, on the east side of the harbour, facing Castletownsend. It is of very solid construction, and
t

Internet Archive sketchesincarber00dono, Chapter 11

As the companion tells it

Somewhere close to Rahine stood a castle built by Donnell the Second O'Donovan after 1584, right at the water's edge facing Castletownsend. It was the head of a manor by 1607, and the chief castle of the O'Donovans in Myross. During the Cromwellian wars of 1649 the lands here were ravaged, and cannonballs remain embedded in the castle walls, likely fired from ships in the harbour. Donnell the Third O'Donovan, who held the castle in the middle of the 1600s, was a strict loyalist and joined the Earl of Castlehaven, commander of the royalists in Ireland. He died in 1660.

The dadagh scene at Blarney Castle

near Blarney · townland · Cork

According to Smith, Clancarthy, MacCarthy Reagh, and O'Donovan raided into Limerick and brought prey to Blarney Castle. When Clancarthy refused to share the spoil, O'Donovan slew him with a dadagh, an ancient Irish weapon, and divided the booty with MacCarthy Reagh.

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Smith gives the following account of one of those forays, which I introduce', as it refers particularly to one of the ancient chieftains, an ancestor to the O'Donovan of Bawnlahan : — " Clancarthy, Mac Carthy Eeagh, and O'Donovan, having joined their forces, went into the county of Limerick to plunder, as was the custom of former times. They brought a considerable prey to the castle of Blarney, the seat of Clancarthy, who- was for having all the cattle drove into his own bawn, without sharing the spoil, and in this manner he had served MacCarthy Eeagh before, who then lived at the castle of Kilbrittain, and who, on this occasion, called upon O'Donovan to join him, that he might assist him if Clancarthy did not share the booty. O'Donovan immediately opposed the driving in of the cattle without dividing them, whereupon a contest ensued. Clancarthy, being thrown down by O'Donovan, had his weapon drawn intending to kill his antagonist; but O'Donovan, perceiving his design, wrenched it from him, and with it slew Clancarthy on the spot, and divided the spoil with Mac Carthy Eeagh. It is not certainly known when this event happened, but the instrument, with this tradition relating to it, is time out of mind in the family. It was a class of weapon of ancient Irish origin, called the dadagh, and was somewhat similar to the Highland dirk. This weapon is supposed to come originally from the Spanish Miquelets, from whom, according to antiquarians, the Milesian Irish derived them, and afterwards handed them over to the Scots." We find that the title of O'Donovan of Castledonovan and Bawnlahan, was adopted by the chiefs of Clancahill (O'Donovans) about A. D. 1640, when Donnell III., O'Donovan tenth in descent from Crom, adopted the title. He had two manors attached
I

Internet Archive sketchesincarber00dono, Chapter 11

Sketches in Carbery, county Cork, : its antiquities, history, legends, and topography

The stories, best first

Waterford invasion of Sherkin Island, 1537

O'Driscoll seizure of wine ship at Baltimore, 1537

Algerine pirate sack of Baltimore, 1631

Destruction of Baltimore town and Teigh O'Driscoll's castle, 1537

Battle of Kinsale, December 1601

Carrigadrohid castle captured by Broghill's stratagem, 1650

Hackett the Dungarvan fisherman hung at Baltimore

Naval engagement at Castlehaven, 6 Dec 1601

Waterford armed expedition recovers ship at Baltimore, March 1537

Bill Barrett's supernatural encounter at Lough Hyne castle

Coppinger drops dead leaving church on Sunday

Cross-sculptured pillar-stone near Teampleen Breeda

Fir Bregach: false soldiers on Cape Clear cliffs

Harrington's Lights at Union Hall (1832–1838)

Subterranean chambers with 500 skeletons discovered at Peake

William Grant's escape from burning Castle of Dunashad

Capture of Clogan Castle near Baltimore, 1602

Sherkin Abbey ruins and cemetery

Capture of Castlehaven by Captain Roger Harvey, 1602

Cathedral silver treasure buried in Ross strand

Coppinger and Becher dispute over Baltimore fisheries

Coppinger's Court: local despot's gallows and dungeon

Labhra Loingseach legend at Lough Hyne

Mrs. Goodman's trance and survival in Cork

Pilgrimage to tomb of Rev. John Power at Rosscarbery

Algerine sack of Baltimore, 1631

Sherkin Castle surrendered to Captain Harvey, 1601

Bishop Owen MacEgan slain at River Bandon, buried at Timoleague

Legend of Toumpleen-a-Fachtna's miraculous appearance

O'Donnell departs Castlehaven for Spain, 1602

O'Driscoll raids on Waterford during 15th century

Signal Tower erected after French arrival in Bantry Bay

Franciscan Abbey and Dunnalong Castle on Sherkin Island

Harrington's Lights near Skibbereen

Thompson's eccentric reputation around Glandore

Women's tucking process on Cape Clear Island

Castledonovan: O'Donovan stronghold blown up by Cromwellians

Castletownsend castle siege of 1690

Coppinger's Court attacked and burnt in 1641 wars

Herd of whales in Castlehaven, winter 1855

Kilbrittain Castle and the white ferret tradition

Sherkin Island ravaged by Waterford forces, 1537

Sir Thomas Crooke's plantation and charter at Baltimore, 1613

Sir Walter Coppinger's seizure of O'Driscoll estates

Spanish reinforcement arrives at Castlehaven, 1601

The Bath Riots near Baltimore during Poor Law resistance

Ancient fort at Lakelands near Skibbereen

Dunanore Castle captured by Captain Roger Harvey, 1601

Harrington's Lights: mysterious luminous phenomenon at Glandore

John Collins, poet and schoolmaster of Myross

Lough Erral's cleansing waters on Cape Clear

The Cathach: Battle Book of the O'Donnells

Waterford ships plundered by Fineen O'Driscoll at Baltimore, 1537

Abbeystrowry Church ruins and famine burials

Macroom Castle burned and Bishop Mac Egan captured, 1650

Old lighthouse at Eoile Cahill, Cape Clear

O'Mahony and O'Donovan castles near Schull

Patterns, fairs and faction-fights at Gortroe near Lough Adereen

Rahine Castle: O'Donovan castle bombarded by Cromwellian ships

The dadagh scene at Blarney Castle