Some account of the territory or dominion of Farney : in the province and earldom of Vlster.

Each story keeps the passage it was read from. Open one to read it as the scan has it, and, where the companion has written its own telling, that too. The passages are read off photographs of the page by machine, so a word here and there comes out wrong; they are kept as the reading produced them, so you can check any of them against the scan.

1. English settlers massacred at Carrickmacross, January 1642

   Carrickmacross · town · Monaghan · 1642

   On Sunday 2 January 1642, English inhabitants of Farney held prisoner in the town of Carrick were systematically killed—hanged, stabbed with skeins, or thrown into pits. Victims included Lord Essex's seneschal William Williams, his brother, and many other named settlers. The narrator attributes the killings to Owen O'Murphy and others acting on orders from Patrick Mc Edmund Mc McMahon.

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   sheep, John Hughes a husbandman, Thomas Trane a Scotch Pedlar, George Greene of Magheross, and two or three more whose names I cannot call to mind : all which were either hanged, stabbed with skeins, or both, or thrown like dogs into pits and ditches, but what offence the Rebells found in them I cannot well imagine, because they were all of them honest men, yet perhaps it was enough to be English, and able of body to bear arms against them, if they should have been set at liberty, besides I think they were weary of giving so many of them meat, as unprofitable members of their commonwealth. Patrick Mc Edmund Mc Mahon was Marshall for business of this nature as I was told, but Owen O'Murphy and a number of Kirnes with him, were chief actors in this bloody execution. It is reported among some of themselves that the Vicar General Ever Mc Mahon was the cause of putting these men to death, and some have said that his council is much followed in all their proceedings, being indeed as it were an oracle among them ; The poor mens wives were most of them stripped and turned out of town in cold frosty weather, it seems they were ashamed to kill them, but thought cold and hunger should do it, if not, the cruel people of the Country.

   " During the time of my Imprisonment I had some discourse with Patrick Mc Louglan and others who told me their intent was to maintain the King in his prerogative, being now in effect no King, nor of power to do any thing of himself, the Parliament men of England ruling all as they list, and that they would have their own Religion free, with Bishops and Priests of their own established in their antient Livings without admitting of any Protestant Bishops and Ministers, That the kingdom should be governed by men of their own nation, that would take care his Majesty's Revenue should be duely collected, and paid from time to time, ever protesting that they would have no king but his Majesty, and that they would be true and loyal subjects to him.

   Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir

   As the companion tells it

   Carrickmacross is a town the road passes through. In the first days of 1642, English settlers held prisoner here were killed. On Sunday 2 January 1642, the prisoners were brought out and murdered. They were hanged, stabbed with skeins, or thrown like dogs into pits and ditches. Among the dead were Lord Essex's seneschal William Williams, his brother, John Hughes a husbandman, Thomas Trane a Scotch pedlar, George Greene of Magheross, and others whose names the narrator could not call to mind. Patrick Mc Edmund McMahon was Marshall for business of this nature. Owen O'Murphy and a number of Kirnes with him were chief actors in this bloody execution. The narrator cannot well imagine what offence the rebels found in them, because they were all honest men. Perhaps, he writes, "it was enough to be English," and able of body to bear arms against the rebels if set at liberty. He thinks they were also weary of feeding so many, as "unprofitable members of their commonwealth." It is reported among some of the rebels themselves that the Vicar General Ever McMahon was the cause of putting these men to death, his council much followed in all their proceedings, being as it were an oracle among them. The poor men's wives were most of them stripped and turned out of town in cold frosty weather. The rebels were ashamed to kill the women, but thought cold and hunger should do it, if not, the cruel people of the country.

2. Lord Deputy Gray's devastating raid on Farney

   Farney · barony · Monaghan

   Lord Leonard Gray, the English Lord Deputy of Ireland, led a military incursion into the territory of Farney on the 7th of April, seizing hundreds of cattle, swine, and goats. He burnt all the country, destroyed their chief houses, and burned the corn, devastating the region's food supplies and dwellings.

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   But a more important hostile incursion, took place a few years afterwards in the Territory of Farney, the circumstances of which were detailed in a letter to King Henry VIII. by Lord Leonard Gray,24 the Lord Deputy of Ireland, and leader of the English forces, in the following terms, iC where as yt dyd appere to your Graces Commissioners and Counsayll here, that where as Hugh Roo (Mac Mahon) Rose Mc Brene [and] Remond Mc Rore of the cuntre of Ferney, showlde pay to your Grace tene pounde yerelye sent owt of the sayd countre of Ferney,25 and other servyce to be doune by theim to your Grace al tymes requysyte, they have withdrawen the payment of the sayd £10, and other theyr dueties, by the space of thys thre yeres past, and also spoyled oftymes your Gracys subjectes yoinyng to theyr borders ; for whych causes yt was agreyd by your sayd Commissioners and Counsayll that a yorney sho[uld] be made apon theim : so that, the 7th day of Apryll, I went, with such sowthiers as I have under your Grace, into the sayd countre of Y\erney\ and browght owt of the sayd countre fyve hundred kyne, thre or f[our] hundred swyne, and geyt. And yf the borderers of your Gracys countr[y] of Uriell had not pryuelye gyven theim waonyng, I had had a thowsand mo than was had, at lest. But suche lyke partes pleyd by borderers have lettyd mych of your Gracys affayres yn theys parties, as your Gracys commissioners may informe your Grace. And at the same yorney I have burnte all the countre, and theyr cheyff houses, and some part of the corne of the sayd countre browght into the Englisshe pale, and the rest clene bowrnte and dystroyd, whych, as moost men doo exteme, was nat soo plentye of grayn theyr manye yeres ; and at the same instant cut twoo

   22 Sir John Wallop, K.G. brother of Sir Oliver Wallop, ancestor of the Earls of Portsmouth.

   Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 17

   As the companion tells it

   The barony of Farney in Monaghan suffered a devastating raid in April, carried out by Lord Leonard Gray, the Lord Deputy of Ireland and leader of the English forces. Gray described what happened in a letter to King Henry the 8th. He wrote that it had appeared to the King's Commissioners and Council that Hugh Roo Mac Mahon, Rose Mc Brene, and Remond Mc Rore of the country of Farney owed the King ten pounds yearly, along with other service whenever required. They had withdrawn that payment and their other duties for three years, and had often spoiled the King's subjects on their borders. For these causes the Commissioners and Council agreed that a journey should be made against them. On the 7th of April, Gray went with his soldiers into Farney and brought out of the country 500 kine, 300 or 400 swine, and goats. He wrote that if the borderers of the King's country of Uriell had not secretly given warning, he would have had a thousand more at least. Gray said such conduct by borderers had hindered much of the King's affairs in those parts. On the same journey he burnt all the country and their chief houses, and some part of the corn of Farney was brought into the English Pale, while the rest was cleanly burnt and destroyed. He noted that most men reckoned the country had not been so plentiful of grain for many years. At the same instant, he recorded, he cut two—the letter breaking off there, the rest of that sentence lost.

3. 1642 massacre at Carrickmacross during the Rebellion

   Carrickmacross · town · Monaghan · 1642

   On Sunday afternoon, 2 January 1642, about twenty rebels entered a house in Carrickmacross where several English settlers were gathered by the fireside. The rebels drew swords and skeins, attacked the occupants, and subsequently bound, hanged, and stripped Mr. Williams, his brother-in-law Mr. Ithell Jones, and Mr. Gabriel Williams.

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   half an hour, there came a great many about it of the rebels to the number of 20 or upwards, 8 or 9 whereof entered the room we were in, and upon the first sight drew their weapons, as swords & skeins, offered to stab & wound us, and spoke in the Irish tongue which we understood very little, so that Mr. Williams seeing as he thought death approach, fell down upon his knees at the end of a long table, and prayed to God for the remission of his sins ; Mr. Boyle was presently taken away, and put into his own chamber, Mr. Gabriel slip't from under their arms into another room, where they wounded him and kept him fast, upon that I made at Patrick Mc Henry Bane O'Birne the chief rebel in that place, and got hold of him with his skein drawn, while one with his sword gave me several wounds in the head, another with his skein in my hand to the number of 7 or 8, and after a long struggle betwixt us, I called to Mr. Williams and prayed him to rise and come and aid me, that we might fight for our lives, to which he made no answer, but continued in the same place kneeling, when I see that I let the rebel go, and slip't up at the back of a table, where he made several thrusts at me, though by Gods providence I escaped, and fled up to the upper end of it, where Mr. Williams was, presently upon that they laid hands on us, bound our hands behind our backs with withes, and then with a cord tied us both together, from that place they led us out of the House, into a little barn, where they used to thrash corn, there they unloosed the rope, and the master rebel Patrick Mc Henry, took it, and put it about Mr. William's neck and hung his body over the inside of the door, until he was dead, afterwards pulled him and stripped him naked upon the floor ; By that time the rest of the wicked crew without, brought his brother-in-law Mr. Ithell Jones, and used him as the former, after him Mr, William's own brother Mr. Gabriell Williams, but before they had done execution upon him, I was sent for out

   Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 66

   As the companion tells it

   On a Sunday in January 1642, English settlers had gathered in a house in Carrickmacross. Within half an hour, about twenty rebels surrounded the place, and eight or nine came into the room, drawing swords and skeins. They spoke in Irish, which the settlers understood very little. Mr. Williams saw death approaching and fell to his knees at the end of a long table, praying to God for the remission of his sins. Mr. Boyle was taken away to his own chamber. Mr. Gabriel slipped from under their arms into another room, where they wounded him and kept him fast. One of the settlers seized Patrick Mc Henry Bane O'Birne, the chief rebel, who had his skein drawn. A man with a sword gave him several wounds in the head, another with a skein stabbed his hand seven or eight times. After a long struggle, he called to Mr. Williams to rise and come aid him, that they might fight for their lives. Williams made no answer but stayed kneeling. Seeing that, he let the rebel go and slipped along the table. The rebel made several thrusts at him, but he escaped to the upper end where Williams was. They laid hands on them, bound their hands behind their backs with withes, and tied them together with a cord. They led them out into a little barn where corn was thrashed. Patrick Mc Henry took the cord, put it about Mr. Williams's neck, and hung his body over the inside of the door until he was dead, then stripped him naked on the floor. The rest brought his brother-in-law Mr. Ithell Jones and used him the same way. After him came Mr. Williams's own brother Mr. Gabriel Williams, but before they had done execution upon him, the surviving settler was sent for.

4. English and MacMahon burn church provisions at Armagh

   near Armagh · town · Armagh · 1432–1437

   Brian MacMahon, having gone over to the English, marched with them into Oriel and burned Dartree-Con-Innsi. They then proceeded to Armagh, took all provisions from the churches, burnt them on the green of the town, and extorted payments from the chief men and clergy to spare the churches themselves.

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   " Mac-Mahon [Brian, son of Ardgal], went into opposition against O'Neill, and his own brothers Rory and Magnus, and went over to the English, carrying all his cattle with him ; the English force assembled and marched with Mac-Mahon into Oriell, and burned Dartree-Con-Innsi ; they then went forward to Armagh, and taking all the provisions out of the Churches, burnt them on the green of the town, and then exacted great considerations

   1 Now Lough-Brickland, co. Down.

   Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 13

   As the companion tells it

   In Armagh, Brian MacMahon, son of Ardgal, came with the English. He had turned against O'Neill and his brothers Rory and Magnus, carrying all his cattle with him. They marched into Oriel and burned Dartree-Con-Innsi. Here they took all provisions from the churches, burnt them on the green of the town, and exacted great payments from the chief men and clergy to spare the churches.

5. Coolderry warfare between Mac Mahons and Flemings

   Coolderry · townland · Monaghan · 1400–1576

   According to local tradition, Coolderry was the cause of constant warfare between the Mac Mahons and the Flemings for many ages, until the Flemings finally won it at a battle fought near a hollow called Glen-Manus. The name Glen-Manus is probably derived from Magnus or Manus Mac-Mahon, who flourished in the early fifteenth century.

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   Coolderry, Cul-bo^ie, Back Derry or Oak Wood. At what period the Flemings of Slane, obtained possession of this Townland, I have not ascertained, it was doubtless, however, anterior to the grant of the Barony of Farney to Walter, Earl of Essex, in 1576. According to the Tradition of the country, Coolderry had been the cause of constant warfare between the Mac Mahons and Flemings for many ages, until it was finally won by the latter at a battle fought near this place in a hollow, called Glen-Manus ; a name derived probably from the celebrated Magnus or Manus Mac-Mahon, brother of Brian, and Rory Mac-Mahon, who nourished in the early part of the fifteenth century [see page 22].

   It appears by an Inquisition in the 10th year of Charles I. that Christopher Fleming, Baron of Slane, died on the 9th of June, 1625, seized of the Townlands of Coulderre and Mullaghosker in the county of Monaghan. This property remained in his descendants till the Revolution of 1688, when by the attainder of Christopher, Baron of Slane, they reverted to the Crown, and were granted (15th April, 1693) to Godart, Earl of Athlone, by the names of the towns and lands of Coolederry and Mullaghagh, alias

   Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 110

   As the companion tells it

   Somewhere around here lies Coolderry, called Cul-boie, meaning Back Derry or Oak Wood. According to the tradition of the country, this place was the cause of constant warfare between the Mac Mahons and the Flemings for many ages. The Flemings of Slane finally won it at a battle fought near here in a hollow called Glen-Manus. That name is probably derived from Magnus or Manus Mac-Mahon, brother of Brian and Rory Mac-Mahon, who flourished in the early part of the fifteenth century. Exactly when the Flemings first obtained possession is not known, but it was before the grant of the Barony of Farney to Walter, Earl of Essex, in 1576. An inquisition in the 10th year of Charles I records that Christopher Fleming, Baron of Slane, died on the 9th of June, 1625, seized of the townlands of Coolderry and Mullaghosker in the county of Monaghan. The property remained in his descendants until the Revolution of 1688, when by the attainder of Christopher, Baron of Slane, the lands reverted to the Crown. They were granted on the 15th of April, 1693, to Godart, Earl of Athlone.

6. Execution of Hugh Roe MacMahon in Monaghan

   Monaghan · town · Monaghan · 1590

   Hugh Roe MacMahon, the last chief of the Mac Mahons, was arrested upon arrival in Monaghan, indicted, and executed at his own house by officers of Lord Deputy Fitzwilliam. The Irish claimed the trial was rigged to extinguish the MacMahon name and seize his lands.

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   " About this time," he says, " Mac-Mahown chieftaine of Monaghan died, who in his lifetime had surrendered this his Countrey, held by Tanistry the Irish law, into her maiesties hands, and received a regrant thereof under the broad seale of England, to him and his heires males, and for default of such, to his brother Hugh roe Mc Mahowne, with other remainders ; and this man dying without heires males, his said brother came up to the State, that he might be setled in his Inheritance, hoping to be countenanced and cherished as her maiesties Patentee, but he found [as the Irish say], that he could not be admitted, till he had promised to give about 600 Cowes,31 (for such and no other are the Irish bribes,) after he was imprisoned, (the Irish say for failing in part of this payment ;) and within few daies againe inlarged, with promise that the Lord Deputy himselfe would go to settle him in his Countrey of Monaghan, whither his Lordship (Fitzwilliam) tooke his journey shortly after, with him in his company, at their first arrivall the gentleman was clapt in bolts, and within two daies after indited arraigned and executed at his owne house, all done (as the Irish said) by such officers as the Lord Deputy carried with him to that purpose ; The Irish said he was found guilty by a Jury of Souldiers, but no Gentlemen or Freeholders, and that of them foure English Souldiers were suffered to goe and come at pleasure ; but the other being Irish kerne, were

   31 This story of the cows is thus alluded to in a Dispatch from Fitzwilliam to Burghley, April 30, 1590. " I humbly thancke yo: Lo: for ye favor it pleasith yr L: to shew me of ye: report made of Cowes yt my dawter Dier shold haue for preferring a partner to Mc Mahones Cuntry. It may be, sum hath gyven owt yt speche who knoith better how to cast abought for a cow, than I, or eny of myne can. But if ever ther were such a mosion or meanin^e for her, for me, or for eny of mine, let God wype us all owt of his booke."

   Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 42

   As the companion tells it

   In 1590, in the town of Monaghan, Hugh Roe MacMahon, the last chief of the MacMahons, was arrested and executed at his own house by officers of the Lord Deputy Fitzwilliam. The previous chieftain of Monaghan had surrendered his country, held by the Irish law of Tanistry, into Queen Elizabeth's hands, and received a regrant under the broad seal of England, to him and his heirs male, and for default of such, to his brother Hugh Roe MacMahon. When the chieftain died without heirs male, Hugh Roe came to the State, hoping to be settled in his inheritance and cherished as her Majesty's patentee. But he found he could not be admitted until he had promised to give about 600 cows. He was imprisoned, the Irish say for failing in part of this payment, and then released, with the promise that the Lord Deputy himself would go to settle him in his country of Monaghan. Fitzwilliam took his journey shortly after, with Hugh Roe in his company. At their first arrival the gentleman was clapped in bolts, and within two days after, indicted, arraigned, and executed at his own house. All was done, as the Irish said, by such officers as the Lord Deputy carried with him to that purpose. The Irish said he was found guilty by a jury of soldiers, but no gentlemen or freeholders. Of them, four English soldiers were suffered to go and come at pleasure, while the Irish kerne were kept confined. Fitzwilliam wrote to Burghley on April 30, 1590, denying that his daughter Dier was to receive cows for preferring a partner to MacMahon's country. He wrote, "if ever there were such a motion or meaning for her, for me, or for any of mine, let God wipe us all out of his book."

7. O'Neill and O'Donnell ravage Meath and rifle Ardee and Navan (1539)

   Ardee · town · Louth · 1539

   O'Neill and O'Donnell led a joint expedition into Meath, burning and ravaging the country as far as Tara, and completely rifling both Ardee and Navan of great quantities of gold, silver, brass, iron, and other goods before returning home triumphant.

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   " 1539. O'Neill and O'Donnell of one council and one accord, led an expedition into Meath, and ravaged and burned such part of the country as refused to submit to them, until they came to Tara. They secured a great booty on that expedition ; for the Irish did not muster in modern times, any army to attack the English, which destroyed more of the wealth of Meath than did that plundering army, for great was the property in gold, and silver, brass and iron, and other goods which they carried away from Ardee, and from Navan, both of which places they completely rifled on that occasion ; on the return of these forces home, they greatly exulted in pomp, pride, and triumph at the immensity of their booty, and at having met with no opposition. When the English Chief Justice, Lord Leonard, heard of these transactions, he collected all the English of Ireland, and the muster of the great towns of Meath, both clergy and laity, and all the vessels in the

   31 State Papers, vol. iii. p. 36. M Ibid, vol. iii. p. 248.

   Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 19

   As the companion tells it

   In 1539, the town of Ardee was stripped bare. O'Neill and O'Donnell, of one council and one accord, led an expedition into Meath. They ravaged and burned such part of the country as refused to submit to them, until they came to Tara. They secured a great booty. The record says no Irish army mustered in modern times to attack the English destroyed more of the wealth of Meath than did that plundering army. Great was the property in gold and silver, brass and iron, and other goods which they carried away from Ardee and from Navan. Both places they completely rifled. On the return of these forces home, they greatly exulted in pomp, pride, and triumph at the immensity of their booty, and at having met with no opposition. When the English Chief Justice, Lord Leonard, heard of these transactions, he collected all the English of Ireland and the muster of the great towns of Meath, both clergy and laity, and all the vessels.

8. Richard Pipard struck with leprosy building Donaghmoyne castle

   Donaghmoyne · townland · Monaghan · 1200

   Around 1200, Richard Pipard began building a castle on the bishop of Clogher's lands at Donaghmoyne. The bishop lay in the trench in pontifical vestments to stop construction; Pipard dragged him out by force and was cursed, subsequently struck with leprosy and dying, with none of his descendants able to hold the lands.

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   " Circa an: 1200." Ricardus Pipard baro de Atrio Dei introitu Anglichanorum in hibernia cepit edificare castru in terris epi apud Donaghmajdeadan ubi nunc castru est ipsius, et cu hoc audisset eps venit et nunciavit novu opus, cu ab hoc baro ab inceptione non cessaret epus pcuravit se indui pontificalibus et fossa intravit, ac jacens humi, se pstravit, porro fessatores cu non possent laborare quia nemo voluit manus violenter injurere in epm, venit baro ipse et epm propriis manibus de fossa extraxit, contra eps exclamando baronem maledixit, ita quod ipse baro 1° lepra percussus erat, et

   Jocelin's Life of St. Patrick, chapter cxxxix.

   Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 82

   As the companion tells it

   Somewhere around here, around 1200, Richard Pipard, baron of Atrium Dei, began building a castle on the bishop of Clogher's lands at Donaghmoyne. When the bishop heard of the new work, he came and ordered the baron to stop. Pipard would not. So the bishop put on his pontifical vestments and lay down in the trench. The workmen could not continue, because none would lay hands on a bishop. Pipard came himself and dragged the bishop out with his own hands. The bishop cursed him. Pipard was struck with leprosy and died, and none of his descendants could hold the lands.

9. Ever McMahon dispossessed of Farney by Essex lease to Talbot

   Farney · barony · Monaghan · 1592

   Ever McMahon petitioned Queen Elizabeth, recounting his family's ancient possession of Farney. The Earl of Essex leased the territory to John Talbot of Castle Ring, dispossessing Ever and his children with many followers, despite Ever's offer to pay £300 per annum rather than lose his ancestors' seat.

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   his auncestors tyme oute of mynd 49 was possessed of the territory of ffarney in the Countye of Moneaghane in the province of Ulster, &c untill &c it was taken from them by ye act of Par' made for the attainder of Shane O Neill, albeit none of yr suppliants house or name attainted, but always loyal subjects as appears upon record by the Council books in Dublin ; his Grandfather submitted himself in the time of Henry VIII. and the Captains of your suppliants name all slain by the Neills who were always enemies to the Captains of Farney. By Queen Elizabeth's grant to Walter Earl of Essex, your suppliant hoped his honor would rest content with the chief rent reserved to your Majesty and not dispossess your suppliant of the land, therefore your suppliant entered as Captain into the said land about xi years past, being then almost all waste, and ever since with the loss of two of his brothers and many of his men he did defend the said territory, and brought it to cyvilytye, but Mc Mahon chief of his name, for being denied rents and duties of the Inhabitants which his predecessors always had had, entered Ferney with great force, and slew two of his brothers, and took himself prisoner, and kept him till he gave pledges to pay the said rents and duties, of which oppressions he hath severall times informed the Earl of Essex by letters ; whereby he could not pay his honor any chief rent, unless he might of Mc Mahons oppressions be discharged, which the Earl did not, but the Lord Deputy that now is, having about two years past executed the said Mc Mahon partly for praying upon your suppliants country, and partly for other just causes, since which your suppliant paid according to the survey of Commissioners appointed by the Lord Deputy £200 rent yearly unto the said Earl, for which rent he thought he should for ever enjoy it, to him and his heires, yet being come hither to offer to hold the said territory of his honor, he could not win his Lordship thereto, albeit he offered £300 pr anm rather than be disposessed of his ancestours seate, his naturall Inclynation therto is suche. Nevertheless the Earl did sett the said Territory to John Talbot of Castle Ring, and hereby dispossessed him and his children with many of his followers. In tender consideration whereof (he concludes), and that himself is aged and hath nyne tall gents : that are his legitimate sons, and that all others in Ulster whose lands was past unto yr Matie by the said Statute are restored to their lands, his humble suit is," as the

   Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 48

   As the companion tells it

   The barony of Farney in Monaghan was held by Ever McMahon's family, in his own words, since "auncestors tyme oute of mynd." They lost it under the parliamentary act for the attainder of Shane O'Neill, though none of Ever's house was attainted. His grandfather had submitted to Henry the Eighth. The captains of his name had been slain by the Neills, who were always enemies to the captains of Farney. When Queen Elizabeth granted Farney to Walter, Earl of Essex, Ever hoped Essex would be content with the chief rent owed to the Crown. Ever entered the land as captain about eleven years before his petition. It was almost all waste then. He defended it and brought it to civility, losing two of his brothers and many of his men in the process. The McMahon, chief of his name, came with great force, slew two of Ever's brothers, and took Ever prisoner. He held him until Ever gave pledges to pay the rents and duties his predecessors had always claimed. Ever wrote to Essex about these oppressions several times. He could not pay Essex any chief rent unless discharged of the McMahon's demands. Essex did nothing. The Lord Deputy executed the McMahon about two years before the petition, partly for preying on Ever's country. After that, Ever paid 200 pounds yearly to Essex, based on the survey of commissioners appointed by the Lord Deputy. He thought that rent would secure the territory to him and his heirs forever. He came to offer to hold it of Essex, and offered 300 pounds per annum rather than be dispossessed of his ancestors' seat. Essex would not accept. He leased Farney to John Talbot of Castle Ring, dispossessing Ever and his children and many of his followers. Ever described himself as aged, with nine legitimate sons, and noted that all others in Ulster whose lands had passed to the Crown by the same statute had been restored to their lands.

10. Norman Steele horsewhips mason undermining Inishkeen round tower

    Inishkeen · town · Monaghan · 1795

    Around fifty years before publication, a mason repairing the adjoining bridge began quarrying stone from the round tower at Inishkeen. The late Mr. Norman Steele caught him in the act and reportedly gave him a well-deserved horsewhipping, saving the tower from destruction.

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    stone, the summit has been transformed into a modern belfry. The door at the bottom, which Sir Charles Coote mentions in his Survey of Monaghan as remarkable, is undoubtedly modern ; the walls are three feet in thickness. About fifty years ago it narrowly escaped destruction ; a mason, who was employed repairing the adjoining bridge, having commenced undermining it, as the readiest and nearest quarry, the late Mr. Norman Steele caught the fellow in the act, and rewarded him, it is said, with a sound, and certainly well deserved horsewhipping. If we may believe another local tradition, nine archbishops and nine bishops of the Mc Mahon family are interred in the glebe-land close to the church-yard. About forty years ago, a square bell is said to have been found near ; also several urns, dug up in a line on the north side of the Church ; cells, formed of stones from six to eight feet square, have also been discovered in the immediate vicinity of the sepulchral mount (or Rath), and old walls adjoining ; the remains, according to popular belief, of the Monastery of Innishkeen. Several large artificial caves were also discovered some years since, on the north side of the river. Of the antient state of Innishkeen, Archdall, in the Monasticon, has collected the following particulars.

    " St. Dageus, said by some monkish writers to have been smith to St. Kieran, was bishop of Inis-chaoin, or Inis-coindega in Origellia, in the beginning of the sixth century.59 (Act. SS. p. 348 and 374.)

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 98

    As the companion tells it

    Inishkeen in Monaghan has a round tower that nearly did not survive. About fifty years before the account was written, a mason employed repairing the adjoining bridge began undermining the tower, using it as the readiest and nearest quarry for stone. The late Mr. Norman Steele caught the fellow in the act and, it is said, rewarded him with a sound and well-deserved horsewhipping. The tower stood, its walls three feet thick, its summit transformed into a modern belfry. Sir Charles Coote noted the door at the bottom as remarkable, though it is undoubtedly modern. Local tradition holds that nine archbishops and nine bishops of the McMahon family are interred in the glebe-land close to the churchyard. About forty years before the account, a square bell was found near the tower. Several urns were dug up in a line on the north side of the church. Cells formed of stones, six to eight feet square, were discovered near the sepulchral mount and old walls, believed to be remains of the monastery of Inishkeen. St. Dageus, said by some to have been smith to St. Kieran, was bishop of Inishkeen in the beginning of the sixth century.

11. Redmond Oge killed at Donagh church on St. Patrick's Day

    Donagh · townland · Monaghan · 1508

    In 1508, Redmond Oge, son of Redmond Mac Mahon, was killed at Domhnach-Muighe-da-Chlavline (now Donagh) on Saint Patrick's Day by Philip, son of Mac Guire. The killing occurred during mass at the church, where Philip had gone in honour of St. Patrick.

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    " 1508. The son of Mac Mahon (Redmond Oge, son of Redmond,) was killed at Domhnach-Muighe-da-Chlavlne^ on Saint Patrick's day, by the son of Mac Guire, (Philip son of Edmond,) thus was that deed effected: Philip having gone in honour of St. Patrick to hear mass at this place, when they were at the mass in the church, Redmond Oge, with a large company

    17 Lucht-Tighe, or Louty, the present Barony of Monaghan, literally, The Household, because it was the residence of the chief.

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 16

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere close to Donagh, in 1508, a killing took place at the church on Saint Patrick's Day. Redmond Oge, son of Redmond Mac Mahon, was killed by Philip, son of Edmond Mac Guire. Philip had come in honour of St. Patrick to hear mass. While they were at mass in the church, Redmond Oge was there with a large company.

12. St Patrick converts Victor at Domnach Maghin

    Donaghmoyne · townland · Monaghan

    St. Patrick came to the territory of Mogdhorna and visited the town of Domnach Maghin, ruled by a man named Victor. Victor hid in a grove in fear but was overcome by divine light, submitted to Patrick, was baptized with all his household, gave his inheritance for a church, and was later consecrated bishop by Patrick.

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    " And Saint Patrick coming into the territory of Mogdhorna went toward the town of Domnach Maghin, over which a man named Victor2 ruled. And he hearing of the Saints arrival, yet loving darkness rather than light, concealed himself in the shades of a thick grove, for much he feared, lest being driven from the darkness of his unbelief, he should though unwilling be compelled to believe in the true light. But the shadows of the night season came on, nor yet did Patrick the Son of Light therefore delay his journey. And when the curtain of deep night had covered all things with surrounding darkness, it darkened not the course of Patrick, who was the Precursor of Light ; for unto him the night was as day, and the deep shadows were as brightness. And the light piercing through the darkness poured around the man concealing himself, nor could he longer hide from before the face of the light. Then Victor by so signal a sign being vanquished, and being even as bound with the chains of the fear of the Lord, came unto Saint Patrick, and devoutly entreated and received from him the holy Baptism. And being with all his household and all his people

    of Mac Mahon heard of Mac Guires preparations, they went with their cattle into their fastnesses, viz. on the Eoganach, and the Mourne Mountains, Mc Guire and Philip Mc Guire then led their forces into Dartree-Coin-Innse, and as they did not overtake their prey, they burned all Dartree, and the residence of Owen, son of Rory Mac Mahon, i. e. Livs-na-n-Gabher [the fort of the Goats], after which they returned home."

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 81

    As the companion tells it

    Close to Donaghmoyne, Saint Patrick came into the territory of Mogdhorna and went toward the town of Domnach Maghin. A man named Victor ruled over it. Victor heard of the saint's arrival, but as the old text puts it, he was "loving darkness rather than light." He concealed himself in the shades of a thick grove, fearing he would be driven from the darkness of his unbelief and compelled to believe in the true light. The shadows of the night season came on, but Patrick, the Son of Light, did not delay his journey. When the curtain of deep night had covered all things with darkness, it did not darken the course of Patrick, who was the Precursor of Light. To him the night was as day, and the deep shadows were as brightness. The light piercing through the darkness poured around the man concealing himself, and Victor could no longer hide from the face of the light. Vanquished by so signal a sign, bound with the chains of the fear of the Lord, Victor came to Saint Patrick. He devoutly entreated and received from him holy Baptism, with all his household and all his people. He gave his inheritance for a church, and Patrick later consecrated him bishop.

13. Lord Deputy's progress through wild Farney, 1608

    Farney · barony · Monaghan · 1608

    In July 1608, Lord Deputy Chichester travelled through Farney with a small guard of foot and horse, camping on its borders. Sir John Davis noted it was 'the wastest and wildest parts of all the north,' remarking that no Lord Deputy had previously ventured there without a thousand men.

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    " My Lord Deputy,"9 he says, " accompanied with the Lord-Chancellor,10 the Lord Chief Justice, " Sir Oliver Lambert, and Sir Garret Moore, and being also waited upon by myself, who was for this service joined in commission of assize and goal delivery with the Chief Justice, began his journey the nineteenth day of July last, being Saturday, and lodged that night and the next at the Abbey of Mellifont, Sir Garret Moores house. On Monday night his lordship camped in the field, upon the borders of Ferney, which is the inheritance of the Earl of Essex ; and albeit we were to pass through the wastest and wildest parts of all the north, yet had we only for our guard six or seven score foot, and fifty or three score horse, which is an argument of a good time, and of a confident deputy. For in former times, (when the state enjoyed the best peace and security,) no Lord-Deputy did ever venture himself into those parts without an army of eight hundred or one thousand men."

    I must refer the reader to Sir John Davis's own relation, for the particulars of the Division of the County of Monaghan at this period, which did not affect the Barony of Farney ; only remarking that he mentions " Ever Mc Collo Mc Mahoune," as "the first of that name that entered into the late rebellion, and is now farmer to my Lord of Essex of all his land in that Country," — " wherein" he adds, " he hath so good a pennyworth, as he is grown since the wars to be of greater wealth, than all the rest of his name

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 56

14. Ever McMahon begs to compound with Tyrone from Lisanisk, 1601

    Lisanisk · townland · Monaghan · 1601

    Writing from Lisanisk on 4 October 1601, Ever McMahon told the Lord Deputy that Tyrone had arrived on the borders of his country and threatened to destroy it and take his cattle unless he joined him. Ever begged permission to compound with Tyrone temporarily to preserve his poor people's goods.

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    Letter from Ever Mc Mahon, to the Lord Deputy, from " Lisbruske," (Lisanisk,) the 4th of October, 1601, stating "That immediately after the departure of the Forces, Tyrone came into the borders of his Country, and sent unto him, to join with him in his actions, or else that he would destroy his Country, and take his cattle, begs to be allowed, till his Lordship's return, to compound with Tyrone, whereby he may preserve his poor people's goods &c." 4

    Letter from Sir GeofFry Fenton, to Sir Robert Cecil, Dublin, the 7th of October, 1601.

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 55

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere close to Lisanisk, on the 4th of October 1601, Ever McMahon sat down to write to the Lord Deputy. He had just watched the forces depart, and Tyrone came straight into the borders of his country. Tyrone sent word: join him, or he would destroy the country and take the cattle. Ever begged to be allowed, until the Lord Deputy's return, to compound with Tyrone, so that he might preserve his poor people's goods.

15. 3000 cattle plundered from Farney by royal forces, 1601

    Farney · barony · Monaghan · 1601

    Captain Thomas Phillips reported that the Lord Deputy seized 3,000 cows besides geldings, sheep, and swine from Farney, belonging to the McMahons and Ever Mc Cooley. This massive raid on livestock devastated the local economy and compelled Ever to submit to the Queen's mercy.

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    " My duetie allwaies remembered, since my last Ire sent to your honor by Capten Yorke, the L. Deputie hath taken a praie of 3000 cowes besydes garrans,3 sheepe and swyne out of the farny, from the Mc Mahownes, and Ever Mc Cooly, who afterwards moste submissivelie came in to her Maties mercie." 4

    The State Paper Office contains a letter to Cecil written at this time, by Richard Hadsor, a Lawyer of the Middle Temple, much consulted by the Government on Irish affairs,5 recommending among other things " That Ever Mc Cooley Mc Mahon, usurped Lord of the Country of fferney, who hath lately come in, should be assisted by ye state to dwell and fortify himself in that Country, with the hope of thus effectually cutting him off from fellowship with the rest of his name."

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 55

    As the companion tells it

    Farney is the barony you are passing through. In 1601, Captain Thomas Phillips reported that the Lord Deputy seized a prey of 3,000 cows, besides geldings, sheep, and swine. The cattle belonged to the McMahons and to Ever Mc Cooley. After the raid, Ever came in most submissively to Her Majesty's mercy. Richard Hadsor, a lawyer of the Middle Temple who advised the government on Irish affairs, wrote to Cecil around the same time. He recommended that Ever Mc Cooley Mc Mahon, the usurped Lord of that country, who had lately come in, should be assisted by the state to dwell and fortify himself there. The hope was to cut him off from fellowship with the rest of his name.

16. Gray's road-building in Farney and O'Neil's hostile response

    Farney · barony · Monaghan · 1538

    Lord Deputy Leonard Gray reported cutting passes and making smooth roads through Farney for the passage of horsemen and footmen. While he was in Farney, O'Neil gathered a great host and threatened daily to obstruct him, complaining he had not been paid his wages.

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    " After my moste humble and bounden duete remembred unto your Moste Exelent Majeste. Plese the same to be advertesed, that sythens my laste letters adressed unto Your Highnes, I have cut divers pases, and made suche smothe wayes, into Your Graces countre of Afale for caryagg of horse men and fote men, that the lyke was neuer sene there. And, in like maner, in the contre of Farney. At whiche tyme, I, being in the said contre of Farnaye, Onele was gadred a great oste, thretning dayly, for that he was not paid his wagis, not only to a lettid me of my purpose in Ferney, in

    26 State Papers, vol. iii. p. 3.

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 18

    As the companion tells it

    In 1538, Lord Deputy Leonard Gray wrote to the Crown that he had cut passes and made smooth roads through the barony of Farney, for carrying horsemen and footmen, such as had never been seen there before. While he was in Farney, O'Neil gathered a great host and threatened daily to obstruct him. O'Neil's grievance was that he had not been paid his wages. Gray's own words call them smooth ways into your grace's country of Farney. The road-building and the threat hung together: Gray was opening Farney for the passage of soldiers, and O'Neil, unpaid, stood against him.

17. Lord Lowth murdered by Mac Mahon's men in Farney

    Louth · town · Louth · 1578

    In 1578, Mac Mahon invaded the Pale in County Louth without just cause. Patrick, third Lord Lowth, newly arrived from Dublin, answered the alarm and pursued the rebels with thirty horsemen, but fell into an ambush and was slain along with twenty of his company.

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    " This morning came dolefull newes unto us of an unhappie accident chaunced by Mc Mahon, who wth suche persons as he had wthout any cause or just occasion but by his yrishe wantonnesse invaded the pale in the countie of Lowthe, where layinge hand upon a praye, the Baron of Lowthe being newly aryved at home from hence answering the alarme yssued out and followed the rebells accompanied wth xxx horsemen, gentlemen of the countie. [They] followed them as farre, as they lighted into the ambushe of the rebells, where the noble young gentleman and xx of the best of his company was slayne." 6

    I shall now give some extracts from a manuscript in the State Paper Office, entitled, " Sr Henry Sidneys Book of Charges," which, as illustrative of the relations subsisting between the English government and the Irish chiefs at this period, the internal state of the country, &c. will not be out of place here, some of them having special reference to Farney and Mac Mahon's country, and the revenge taken by the English for the death of the Baron of Lowth.

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 34

    As the companion tells it

    In 1578, the road through Louth carries the memory of a sudden killing. Mac Mahon, with no just cause but what the record calls his Irish wantonness, invaded the Pale in County Louth and seized plunder. Patrick, third Lord Lowth, had just arrived home from Dublin. He answered the alarm and rode out after the rebels with thirty horsemen, gentlemen of the county. They chased them far enough to fall into an ambush. That noble young gentleman and twenty of the best of his company were slain. The news reached Dublin that same morning, described as doleful tidings of an unhappy accident. The manuscript goes on to speak of Sir Henry Sidney's Book of Charges, which records the relations between the English government and the Irish chiefs in that period, and the revenge the English took for the death of the Baron of Lowth, with particular reference to Farney and Mac Mahon's country.

18. Outbreak of the 1641 Rebellion at Carrick Castle

    Carrickmacross · town · Monaghan · 1641

    On the morning of October 23, 1641, Robert Branthwait, agent to the Earl of Essex, was at the Castle of Carrick when a group of armed men violently beat on his locked chamber door, marking the first outbreak of the Rebellion in Farney.

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    " Who being examined &c declareth &c upon oath, that on Saturday October 23, 1641, between 8 and 9 of the clock in the morning, there came to my chamber dore in the Castle of Carrick some 4 or 5 men, amongst ye rest one Pierce O'Birne, who beat violently at the door, being locked, which much amazed me ; In regard I lived in authority among them, whereupon I caused my servant Richard Fahye an Irishman to know what the matter was, but they would give him no answer, and so stood with their weapons

    24 Original Leases penes E. P. S.

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 62

    As the companion tells it

    In Carrickmacross, the 1641 rebellion first broke on the morning of Saturday October 23. Robert Branthwait, agent to the Earl of Essex, was in the Castle of Carrick. Between 8 and 9, 4 or 5 men came to his chamber door. One was Pierce O'Birne. They beat violently at the door, which was locked. Branthwait, much amazed, sent his servant Richard Fahye, an Irishman, to ask what the matter was. They gave him no answer, and stood there with their weapons.

19. Atkinson and Branthwait flee Carrickmacross to Dublin, 1642

    Carrickmacross · town · Monaghan · 1642

    After being held captive since the January 1642 massacre at Carrickmacross, Anthony Atkinson and his master Robert Branthwait received a pass from Colonel McMahon and fled through Drumconragh, Siddan, Slane, and Dowth before reaching Drogheda and travelling by sea to Dublin.

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    " About the 18th day of February last, Col Mc Brian Mc Mahon sent his pass to my master for the release of us both, and consented that we should have Redmond Burke and Richard ffahy to be our convoy, for our better safety to any port in this kingdom, from whence we might transport ourselves to England ; but being unfurnished of horses then, we were forced to stay there till the 3d day of this instant March, at which time we took our Journey for Newstone, where my Lady of Slaine made my master welcome to her house, though he did not lodge there at night, but came to Drumconragh afterward, and laid in the Inn : The next morning we came to Sydan, where my Lord of Slaine caused a kinsman of his Lordships and one of his Servants, who was commanded as from his Lordship, to give us all entertainment at Slaine House for 4 days, to which place we went that night, being Friday, and there remained till Sunday in the morning next following, at which time we hired 3 men there to add to our convoy, who brought us to Sr John Nettervilles house at Dowth, where we wanted nothing fit for man or horse, and besides gave us hearty welcome, the next day after we came thither we removed to Tredagh, and from thence by sea to this City of Dublin."

    " The losses wch I have sustained from ye Rebells viz :

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 67

    As the companion tells it

    Carrickmacross is the town where Anthony Atkinson and his master Robert Branthwait were held captive after the massacre of January 1642. Around the 18th of February, Colonel McBrian McMahon sent his pass to Branthwait for the release of them both, and consented that they should have Redmond Burke and Richard ffahy as their convoy, for their better safety to any port in the kingdom, from which they might transport themselves to England. Being unfurnished of horses, they were forced to stay until the 3rd of March, at which time they took their journey for Newstone. The Lady of Slaine made Branthwait welcome to her house, though he did not lodge there at night, but came afterward to Drumconragh and lay in the inn. The next morning they came to Siddan, where the Lord of Slaine caused a kinsman and one of his servants to give them all entertainment at Slaine House for 4 days. They went there that Friday night and remained till Sunday morning, at which time they hired 3 men to add to their convoy, who brought them to Sir John Netterville's house at Dowth, where they wanted nothing fit for man or horse, and besides gave them hearty welcome. The next day they removed to Drogheda, and from thence by sea to Dublin.

20. Bryan McHuge oge seizes Clones by treachery

    Clones · town · Monaghan · 1589

    Bryan McHuge oge, who raised 600–700 men to seize the MacMahon lordship by force, took the Ward of Cloynis (Clones) belonging to Henry Duke by treachery, captured prisoners, razed the abbey, and killed soldiers sent to place the established MacMahon.

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    Ma,iPS service : after the death of which Mc Mahon, you according to the effect of those Ires Patents established his brother the Mac Mahon that now ys, to enjoy his contry, and sent certeyne of her hs forces thither for the placing of him ; Her Ma"es pleasure is therefore, although perhaps he may be charged wth some such march offences as are over ordenarylie comitted in that Realme, especially in those Provinces and Countryes wher no established Justice is planted, that yow shall not only forbeare to proceede to bring him to any triall untill she may be further enformed from yow of such matters as he standeth iustly charged wthall, but also to see the Countrey kept in quiet, and to forbeare to erect and substitute any othr in his place as Mc Mahon and Cheife of the Sept : ffor that her hs hath ben enformed that yow should have some meanning or intenton to rayse up one Bryan Mac Huge oge being known to be [as she hath been given to understand,] an evill affected member and one that hath comitted divers outrages upon her good and loving subjects in that Realme, and seeketh to come by the Lordship wth force, having raysed up 6, or 700 evill disposed persons to assist him in his evill and disloyal purpose, and hath already taken the Ward of Cloynis belonging to Henry Duke by treachery and tooke 4 or 5 of the same ward prisoners, wherof, some were sore hurt, and rased the Abbey therof, being her Ma"es inheritance, and also hath as we understand killed certain soldiers that yow lately sent for the placeing of the Mac Mahon that now ys. — and so we bid yor L: hartely farewell, ffrom the Co' this xixth of November 1589. Yor very loving frends. J: Cantuar. Ch: Hatton, Cane. W. Burghley. C. Howard. Hunsdon. J. Buckhurst. James Croft. T. Heneage. Fra: Walsingham. J. Perrot. J. Wotley. J. Fortescue." Zi

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 43

    As the companion tells it

    Near the town of Clones in Monaghan, in the year 1589, a violent struggle broke out over who would hold the MacMahon lordship. The Queen had established a brother of the dead McMahon to enjoy his country, and sent certain of her forces thither for the placing of him. But word reached the Crown that there was intent to raise up one Bryan MacHugh Oge, described as an evil affected member who had committed divers outrages upon her good and loving subjects. He sought to come by the lordship with force, having raised up 600 or 700 evil disposed persons to assist him in his disloyal purpose. Bryan MacHugh Oge had already taken the Ward of Clones belonging to Henry Duke by treachery. He took 4 or 5 of that ward prisoners, whereof some were sore hurt. He razed the abbey there, which was her Majesty's inheritance. And he killed certain soldiers that had been sent for the placing of the MacMahon. The letter, dated the 19th of November 1589, carried the names of those who signed it. Cantuar. Ch. Hatton. W. Burghley. C. Howard. Hunsdon. J. Buckhurst. James Croft. T. Heneage. Fra. Walsingham. J. Perrot. J. Wotley. J. Fortescue. They wrote to forbid any proceeding to trial of the established MacMahon until the Queen might be further informed, and to see the country kept in quiet. They commanded that no other be erected in his place as McMahon and chief of the sept.

21. Devastation of Farney by English forces, 1589

    Farney · barony · Monaghan · 1589

    An English military expedition against Sir Ross McMahnon burned every house and all grain in his country of Farney, leaving tenants destitute and fled. McMahnon lamented that not one whole town of land was tilled and that his people had scattered to other countries.

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    Sir Ross Mc Mahon's " humble letter," inclosed, complains of the state in which his country was after this journey, " They have not left a house in my country unburnt, nor grayne of corne unburnt or spoyled, wch is now myne onely undoing, — when yr Lp. sent that I should have receaved a Sherriff all the most p' of my country went way to other countreys, and if I shall be liable to gather the people of my countrey agaynst the next yere I will willinglie receave yor Hor his Sheriff. — There is not one whole towne of land earyd or plowed in all my country, therefore much more cause all my tenants have now never to reterne to me agayne." 29

    He ends his letter by excusing himself for not attending the Deputy in person, on the score of health, " for that I am not hable to travell so farre as yor Lo : is, for that my disease is suche."

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 41

    As the companion tells it

    The barony of Farney in Monaghan was the country of Sir Ross McMahon. In 1589 an English military expedition came against him and burned every house and all the grain in his territory. McMahon wrote a humble letter afterward. He said they had not left a house in his country unburnt, nor grain of corn unburnt or spoiled, which was his only undoing. When word came that he should receive a Sheriff, most of his people went away to other countries. He said there was not one whole town of land tilled or plowed in all his country, and so his tenants had all the more cause never to return to him again. He offered that if he was expected to gather his people by the next year, he would willingly receive the Sheriff. He ended his letter by excusing himself for not attending the Deputy in person. He said he was not able to travel so far, for his disease was such.

22. Essex Ford tradition at Ballingarry

    Ballingarry · townland · Monaghan · 1590–1736

    According to the Survey of 1736, the great road from Monaghan to Drogheda passes through Ballingarry, at a place called Essex Ford where the Earl of Essex and Tyrone are said to have had an interview during the Irish Rebellion in Queen Elizabeth's reign. The author notes this is a mistake, the true Essex Ford being at Anagh Clint.

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    Ballingarry, 23Aile at) 5<x.ji6a, Town of the Garden. Included in Garraghgobane in 1655, in 1692 called " Garlaubban & Ballangary 2 Tattes." " Through this Townland," according to the Survey of 1736, " passes the great Road from Monaghan to Drogheda, on wch Road is a place call'd Essex Ford, where the Earl of Essex & Tyrone are say'd to have had an Interview in the time of ye Irish Rebellion in Q. Eliz*3. Reign." N.B. This is a mistake, the true Essex-Ford being undoubtedly at " Anagh Clint." see page 109.

    Coolaka, Cul aca, (?) Nook of the Ford, or of the Kiln.

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 110

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere around here, the great road from Monaghan to Drogheda passed through Ballingarry. According to the Survey of 1736, on that road was a place called Essex Ford, where the Earl of Essex and Tyrone are said to have had an interview during the Irish Rebellion in Queen Elizabeth's reign. The author of the source calls this a mistake. He says the true Essex Ford was undoubtedly at Anagh Clint. So the tradition attached a famous meeting between Essex and Tyrone to this ground, but the record itself says the story belongs elsewhere.

23. Lord Deputy Gray's raid and spoiling of Farney (1538)

    Farney · barony · Monaghan · 1538

    Lord Deputy Leonard Gray led an unauthorized raid into Farney against Remonde Mc Rorye and his people, who were at peace, spoiling them of their goods. Some of Gray's men were slain, others wounded or taken prisoner, forcing him to abandon his spoils and return in vain.

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    The articles of impeachment declare that " The Lorde Deputie, without advise of the Counsaile, made a roode into Ferney upon Remonde Mc Rorye, and others in the same cuntrey, spoiling theme of their goodes (thei being at peace) ; at whiche time parte of my said Lordes men were slayne, others of theme wounded, and others takyn prisoners : for redempcion of whiche persons, as Garnon of Garnonston, and others, he was constreyned to leave behinde him the spoile and prede he had there takyn, to his great dishonor ; and so retorned in vayne."

    28 State Papers, vol. iii. p. 17, [From Lambeth Library, vol. 602, leaf 128.]

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 19

    As the companion tells it

    As you travel through Farney, in 1538 Lord Deputy Leonard Gray led a raid into this country without the Council's advice, against Remonde Mc Rorye and his people, who were at peace. He spoiled them of their goods. But some of his men were slain, others wounded, and others taken prisoner, among them Garnon of Garnonston. To redeem those prisoners, Gray was forced to leave behind all the spoils he had taken. He returned in vain, to his great dishonor.

24. Sir Henry Duke discovers Clones Abbey concealed since Suppression, 1587

    Clones · town · Monaghan · 1587

    Sir Henry Duke, writing to Lord Burghley in February 1586-7, reported finding the Abbey of Clones in Dartry concealed from the Crown since the Suppression. He recommended it as the most fitting place for a garrison to bridle and reform Mac Mahon's Country, McGuire's, and the O'Reillys.

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    " In my trauell in those ptes I founde owte for her Matie th'abbay of Cloneys in Dartry in Mc Mahowns Countrey wch was concealed from her highnes ever since the Suppression, and is the onlie place to laie a garrison for the brydelinge, and refourmynge of Mc Mahowns Countrey, Mc Gwyres, and the Oreylies, and of all others the most apte and fytt to answere anie othr part of the North where the placinge of cth men in garrison will subdewe, and bringe in subjection more ill disposed men, and farre more encrease her Mats Revenue then dooble the conquest of Leixe and offaley : at this place Sr John Oneylie and all the rest of their Countrey, togeather w* Sr Rosse Mc Mahowne have earnestlie written to my Lo : Deputie to have a garrison placed, and Mc Mahowne hathe by his lettre offred unto his L. to yealde yearelie unto her Mat,e (over and above that he nowe paieth) iiijc choice beaves so as he might be freed from the Oreyles, and not yealde anie thinge to anie of the Irishrie, but onlie to holde of her highnes." 24

    In 1587, another plan, or plot as it was then called, for the better government of Ulster, intimately connected with Farney, was broached by an old friend of the late Earl of Essex ; I allude to " Sr Edward Waterhous his plott for government of Ulster wthout danger to the Pale, or incres of her Mats Charges. 7 April. 1587."

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 39

    As the companion tells it

    The town of Clones holds an old secret from the Crown. In February 1586, Sir Henry Duke, travelling through those parts for her Majesty, found that the Abbey of Clones in Dartry, in MacMahon's Country, had been concealed from the Queen ever since the Suppression. He wrote to Lord Burghley to say so, and he had a sharp recommendation. The abbey was, in his words, the onlie place to laie a garrison for the brydelinge and refourmynge of MacMahon's Country, McGuire's, and the O'Reillys. He called it the most apt and fit place to answer any other part of the north, where placing men in garrison would subdue and bring into submission more ill-disposed men, and increase her Majesty's revenue more than double the conquest of Leix and Offaly. Sir John O'Neill and the rest of their country, together with Sir Ross MacMahon, had earnestly written to the Lord Deputy to have a garrison placed there. MacMahon himself offered by letter to yield yearly to her Majesty, over and above what he already paid, 400 choice beasts, so that he might be freed from the O'Reillys and hold only of her highness. In 1587, another plan for the government of Ulster was put forward by Sir Edward Waterhouse, an old friend of the late Earl of Essex, dated the 7th of April.

25. Wives of slain settlers stripped and turned out of Carrickmacross

    Carrickmacross · town · Monaghan · 1642

    After the massacre of their husbands, the wives of the English settlers were stripped of their clothing and turned out of the town of Carrick into cold, frosty weather. The narrator notes the rebels were ashamed to kill the women outright but expected cold and hunger to finish them.

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    sheep, John Hughes a husbandman, Thomas Trane a Scotch Pedlar, George Greene of Magheross, and two or three more whose names I cannot call to mind : all which were either hanged, stabbed with skeins, or both, or thrown like dogs into pits and ditches, but what offence the Rebells found in them I cannot well imagine, because they were all of them honest men, yet perhaps it was enough to be English, and able of body to bear arms against them, if they should have been set at liberty, besides I think they were weary of giving so many of them meat, as unprofitable members of their commonwealth. Patrick Mc Edmund Mc Mahon was Marshall for business of this nature as I was told, but Owen O'Murphy and a number of Kirnes with him, were chief actors in this bloody execution. It is reported among some of themselves that the Vicar General Ever Mc Mahon was the cause of putting these men to death, and some have said that his council is much followed in all their proceedings, being indeed as it were an oracle among them ; The poor mens wives were most of them stripped and turned out of town in cold frosty weather, it seems they were ashamed to kill them, but thought cold and hunger should do it, if not, the cruel people of the Country.

    " During the time of my Imprisonment I had some discourse with Patrick Mc Louglan and others who told me their intent was to maintain the King in his prerogative, being now in effect no King, nor of power to do any thing of himself, the Parliament men of England ruling all as they list, and that they would have their own Religion free, with Bishops and Priests of their own established in their antient Livings without admitting of any Protestant Bishops and Ministers, That the kingdom should be governed by men of their own nation, that would take care his Majesty's Revenue should be duely collected, and paid from time to time, ever protesting that they would have no king but his Majesty, and that they would be true and loyal subjects to him.

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 64

    As the companion tells it

    In 1642, the English settlers in Carrickmacross were killed. John Hughes, a husbandman, Thomas Trane, a Scotch pedlar, George Greene of Magheross, and two or three more whose names the narrator could not recall were hanged, stabbed with skeins, or both, or thrown into pits and ditches. The narrator could not imagine what offence the rebels found in them, for they were all honest men. Perhaps it was enough to be English, and able of body to bear arms against the rebels if set at liberty. Or perhaps the rebels were weary of feeding so many of them, as unprofitable members of their commonwealth. Patrick Mc Edmund Mc Mahon was marshal for business of this nature. Owen O'Murphy and a number of Kirnes with him were the chief actors in this execution. It was reported among some of the rebels themselves that the Vicar General Ever Mc Mahon was the cause of putting these men to death. His council was much followed in all their proceedings, being as it were an oracle among them. The poor men's wives were most of them stripped and turned out of town in cold frosty weather. It seems the rebels were ashamed to kill them outright, but thought cold and hunger should do it, if not, as the narrator writes, "the cruel people of the Country."

26. Donogh O'Carroll, Lord of Oriell, dies of hatchet wound

    Farney · barony · Monaghan · 1168

    Donogh O'Carroll, Lord of Oriell (which then included Farney), died in 1168 from a hatchet wound inflicted by one of his own people. He lived long enough to receive extreme unction and bequeathed three hundred ounces of gold to clergymen and churches.

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    " A. D. 1168. Donogh O'Carroll, Lord of Oriell, the flood of the nobility and dignity of the North of Ireland, died of a wound from a hatchet, inflicted on him by one of his own people, [i. e. O'Duibhne of the Kinel-Owen tribe]. He lived, however, to receive extreme unction, and to repent of his sins ; and bequeathed three hundred ounces of gold to Clergymen and Churches."

    Morough O'Carroll succeeded Donogh as Lord of Oriell ; his death is stated to have taken place in 1189, "in the great Monastery," i. e. the Abbey of Mellefont, in the County of Louth, " after an approved repentance." The next O'Carroll, Lord of Oriell, was captured by the English in 1193, " who first put out his eyes and then hanged him." Farney in the mean time had been vanquished by De Courcy, though the Irish Annalists do not give any account of the fact ; they tell, however, of the demolition of Richard Fleming's Castle at Slane in 1176, by Malachin M'Laughlin at the head of the people of Tyrone and Oriell, and of a great battle which was fought by De Courcy at Glenn Righe [the Valley of the Newry river] in 1178. Hanmer, however, in his Chronicle, compiled in 1571, has given a minute account of a battle said to have taken place in Farney at about this period, and although the passage is somewhat long, and wordy, and has, I suspect, but little foundation beyond the imagination of the learned compiler (or rather the author whom he quotes^,57 it must not be here omitted as a specimen of fabulous history connected with the district.

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 7

    As the companion tells it

    In this barony of Farney, in the year 1168, Donogh O'Carroll, Lord of Oriell, died of a wound from a hatchet. The blow was struck by one of his own people, O'Duibhne of the Kinel-Owen tribe. He was called the flood of the nobility and dignity of the North of Ireland. He lived long enough after the wound to receive extreme unction and to repent of his sins, and he bequeathed three hundred ounces of gold to clergymen and churches. Morough O'Carroll succeeded Donogh as Lord of Oriell. His death came in 1189, in the great Monastery, meaning the Abbey of Mellefont in the County of Louth, after an approved repentance. The next O'Carroll to hold the lordship of Oriell was captured by the English in 1193, who first put out his eyes and then hanged him. Farney itself had been vanquished by De Courcy, though the Irish Annalists give no account of it. They do tell of the demolition of Richard Fleming's Castle at Slane in 1176, carried out by Malachin M'Laughlin at the head of the people of Tyrone and Oriell, and of a great battle fought by De Courcy at Glenn Righe, the Valley of the Newry river, in 1178. Hanmer, in his Chronicle compiled in 1571, gave a minute account of a battle said to have taken place in Farney around this period, though it has little foundation beyond the imagination of the compiler.

27. Earl of Essex obtains barony of Farney

    Farney · barony · Monaghan · 1573

    Walter Devereux, Earl of Essex, obtained the whole Barony of Donomayne, otherwise called Farney and Clankerville, for himself and his heirs. This was the first grant of Farney lands after the attainder of Shane O'Neil.

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    By the act of attainder of Shane O'Neil, Farney with the rest of the present County of Monaghan, besides a great portion of the north east of Ulster were declared to be forfeited to the Crown, as being either the Inheritance of O'Neil, or held under that Royal House. " All this County" [Monaghan], says Sir John Davis, " albeit it were resumed and rested actually in the Crown by the act of attainder of Shane O'Neale, notwithstanding the Mac-Mahons being still permitted to hold the possession, no man sought to have any grant thereof untill Walter, Earl of Essex, obtained the whole Barony of Donomayne, (otherwise called the Ferney and Clankerville), to himself and his heirs." "

    But we are anticipating, and before we resume the further account of " The Territory or Dominion of Farney" at this time lying mostly waste, and desolate, with few inhabitants, the scene of constant depredations from the hostile nations who lived on either side of its green pastures and shrubby hills, we must briefly notice the first attempts to settle an English Plantation [as it was called] in Ulster. The first offer appears to have been that of Sir Thomas Gerrard of Lancashire, " for the planting of the Glynnes and part of Clandeboy ;" his proposal bears date the 15th of March, 1569-70. That of Sir Thomas Smith seems to have been first put into execution, his natural son, Mr. Thomas Smith, having taken possession of his estate in the Ardes in 1572 ; the attempt however of Walter Devereux, Earl of Essex, undertaken in the following year, was by far the most important, as well as the most intimately connected with our subject. Sir William Fitzwilliam was now Lord Deputy of Ireland, having succeeded Sussex in 1571. Some extracts from his dispatch to the Lord Treasurer [Burleigh], "from Ballahowth, October 26, 1572," illustrating as it does his supposed dislike of the new plantation scheme, of which he was very generally accused, will not be out of place here ; he writes " that he is even now on his journey along the borders,12 and proceeds to complain of one Chat-

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 25

    As the companion tells it

    The barony of Farney lies along this road, a stretch of Monaghan land whose story turns on a single grant made in 1573. By the act of attainder of Shane O'Neil, Farney and the rest of what is now County Monaghan, along with a great portion of the north east of Ulster, were declared forfeited to the Crown, as being either the inheritance of O'Neil or held under that Royal House. Sir John Davis wrote that although the county was resumed and rested actually in the Crown by that attainder, the MacMahons were still permitted to hold possession, and no man sought to have any grant thereof until Walter, Earl of Essex, obtained the whole Barony of Donomayne, otherwise called the Ferney and Clankerville, to himself and his heirs. Before that grant, the territory lay mostly waste and desolate, with few inhabitants, the scene of constant depredations from hostile nations on either side of its green pastures and shrubby hills. It was the early period of English plantation attempts in Ulster. Sir Thomas Gerrard of Lancashire made the first offer, dated the 15th of March 1569, for planting the Glynnes and part of Clandeboy. Sir Thomas Smith's scheme followed, his natural son taking possession of an estate in the Ardes in 1572. The attempt of Walter Devereux, Earl of Essex, undertaken the next year, was by far the most important, and the one most intimately connected with Farney. Sir William Fitzwilliam was Lord Deputy of Ireland, having succeeded Sussex in 1571. From Ballahowth on the 26th of October 1572, he wrote to the Lord Treasurer Burleigh of his journey along the borders, and was generally accused of disliking the plantation scheme.

28. Essex camps at the mill of Louth, September 1599

    Louth · town · Louth · 1599

    On his northern march in September 1599, Essex marched through the plain country to the mill of Louth and encamped beyond the river towards Farney, while Tyrone marched through the woods and lodged in the next wood, keeping his scouts in sight.

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    " The L. Lieutenant marched with his army towards Earny,69 and lodged the 2 of September betwixt Roberts Towne and Newcastel. The 3rd he went from thense to Ardoff, where he might see Tirone with his forces on a hill, a mile and a half from owre quarter, but a river and a wood betwixt him and us. The L. Liutenant first imbattelled his army, and then lodged it uppon the hill by the burnt Castel of Ardoff, and because there was no wood for fyre nor cabines but in the valley towards Tirone's quarter, his Lop commaunded a squadron of every compagny to goe fetch wood, and sent 500 foote and 2 compagnies of horsse for their garde. Tirone sent downe some horsse and foote to impeache them and offer skirmish, but after directed them not passe the foorde, when he sawe oure men resolved to dispute it. Some skirmish theare was, from one side of the river to the other, but to little purpose ; for as they offended us little, so we troubled owre selvs as little with them. The next day the L. Lieutenante marched thorough the playne country to the mill of Louthe, and incamped beyond the river towards Eerny, and Tirone marched thorough the woodes, and lodged in the next wood to us, keeping his skowtes of horsse in sight of owre quarter. At this quarter the L. Lieutenant being driven to stay for a supply of victuall from Dredagh, consulted what was to be doun uppon Tirones armie, or how theire fastnesse might be entred. It was protested by

    Maghon (thei call him their Cap" of ferney.) went himself to Tirone, requested license to come in for this harvest to save his corne, and th'earle did give him leave." S. P O.

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 53

    As the companion tells it

    In September 1599, the road passes through or near Louth, where Essex and his army made camp during their northern march. He was the Lord Lieutenant, moving through the country with his forces against Tyrone. On the 2nd of September he lodged between Roberts Towne and Newcastle. The 3rd he went to Ardoff, where he could see Tyrone with his forces on a hill, a mile and a half from the quarter, with a river and a wood between them. Essex first drew up his army in battle formation, then lodged it on the hill by the burnt castle of Ardoff. There was no wood for fire or shelters except in the valley towards Tyrone's quarter, so he commanded a squadron from every company to fetch wood, sending 500 foot and 2 companies of horse for their guard. Tyrone sent down some horse and foot to stop them and offer skirmish, but then directed them not to pass the ford when he saw the men were resolved to dispute it. There was some skirmish from one side of the river to the other, but to little purpose. As they offended little, so the army troubled themselves as little with them. The next day the Lord Lieutenant marched through the plain country to the mill of Louth, and encamped beyond the river towards Farney. Tyrone marched through the woods, and lodged in the next wood, keeping his scouts of horse in sight of the quarter. At this quarter the Lord Lieutenant, driven to stay for a supply of victuals from Drogheda, consulted what was to be done upon Tyrone's army, or how their fastness might be entered.

29. Hugh O'Neil appointed Governor of Farney, 1584

    Farney · barony · Monaghan · 1584–1586

    In 1584, Hugh O'Neil, Baron of Dungannon (later Earl of Tyrone), was appointed Governor of a considerable portion of Ulster including Farney and Clancarvyll. Sir Henry Bagnall warned against this policy, petitioning that O'Neil should not be allowed sovereignty over territories adjacent to the English Pale.

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    In 1584, Hugh O'Neil, then known as Baron of Dungannon, and afterwards as Earl of Tyrone, so insidiously ingratiated himself with the new Deputy Perrot and the Queen, that he was appointed Governor of a considerable portion of Ulster, including " fferney and Clancarvyll," with the rest of Mc Mahon's Country, the Commission was renewed in 1586, by an Act of Council, dated May 22, although the forces heretofore stationed there were ordered to be withdrawn. The danger of this policy was exposed by Sir Henry Bagnall, who, in his petition for the ordering of Ulster [dated March 6, 1586-7], says

    " Item, that it be commaunded from her Ma"e that the saide Tur : Oneyl, the Earle of Tyrone, or anie other that hereafter maie challenge or happen to be called cheife of that Surname shall by noe manner of meanes be suffered to have or enjoye anie Sovantie or rule over these hereafter named whose Countreys are next adiacent to the English pale, That is to saie Mc Genyse's, Sr Con Mc Neyl oge's, Mc Mahon's, the Captaines of the fues and farney, but that they be left as is aforesaide to her Mat,es dependauncie." "2

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 39

    As the companion tells it

    The barony of Farney was placed under the governance of Hugh O'Neil in 1584. At that time he was known as Baron of Dungannon, though he would later be called Earl of Tyrone. He had so insidiously ingratiated himself with the new Deputy Perrot and the Queen that he was appointed Governor of a considerable portion of Ulster, including Farney and Clancarvyll, with the rest of McMahon's Country. The commission was renewed in 1586 by an Act of Council dated May 22, although the forces heretofore stationed there were ordered to be withdrawn. The danger of this policy was exposed by Sir Henry Bagnall. In his petition for the ordering of Ulster, dated March 6, 1587, he asked that Tyrone, or any other who might happen to be called chief of that surname, should by no means be suffered to have any sovereignty or rule over those whose countries are next adjacent to the English Pale. He named them: McKenna's, Sir Con O'Neill Oge's, McMahon's, the Captains of the Fews, and Farney. They should be left, he said, to her Majesty's dependency.

30. Murder of Parson Montgomery at Carrickmacross

    Carrickmacross · town · Monaghan · 1642

    James Montgomery, Parson of Donaghmoyne, was killed by rebels at Carrickmacross on May-day 1642, after the rebels were beaten at Ardee. His widow Dennis deposed that the rebels declared they would not leave a minister alive in Ireland.

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    Dennis the Relict of James Montgomery, Clerk, Parson of Donemayn, reckoned her losses at £703. " On May-day last," she deposed, " when the Rebels were beaten at Ardee by the English Army, they came all to Carrickmacross, and there they killed her husband, and said they would not leave a minister alive in Ireland, because, as they said, the English Army killed all their priests at Ardee."

    " Elizabeth Whitehead Relict of Robert Whitehead late of Enniskean Esq. laid her damages at £40 pr anm.

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 68

    As the companion tells it

    Carrickmacross, in Monaghan. In 1642, on the first of May, rebels who had been beaten at Ardee by the English Army came to this town and killed James Montgomery, the Parson of Donaghmoyne. His widow Dennis deposed that they said they would not leave a minister alive in Ireland, because the English Army had killed all their priests at Ardee. She reckoned her losses at 703 pounds.

31. Richard Blayney hanged at Castle of Monaghan

    Monaghan · town · Monaghan · 1642

    Richard Blayney, cousin to Lord Blayney, was hanged in the garden of Monaghan Castle by warrant from Sir Phelim Roe O'Neale, procured at the instance of Art Mc Brian Lannagh McMahon. Other prisoners including Lady Blayney and her son were held at the castle before being moved to lodgings in the town.

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    who was hanged in the garden of the Castle there, by warrant from Sir Phelim Roe O'Neale, procured at the instance of Art Mc Brian Lannagh Mc Mahon, a wicked villain, who since died mad as I am credibly informed. " When we were all put out of the Castle of Carrick I was removed at my own request to the house of Redmond Burke, an old servant of my Lord of Essex, where I continued from the 25lh of October till Thursday the 3rd of this instant March, at which time I came from thence towards Dublin, and I must needs confess that during the time of my imprisonment, I was well intreated by Coll Mc Bryan, who sufferred me to want neither meat nor other necessaries, besides Redmund Burke and his wife were very beneficial to me upon all occasions, yet from all the favor which I had from Coll Mc Bryan and other gentlemen of the country, I could not banish fear from my heart, still thinking upon that maxim of theirs that faith is not to be kept with hereticks, for so they account Protestants, and that I was an Englishman which was a main fault with me ; much labour I had to get a pass from Coll Mc Bryan, who was ernest with me to stay still in the country assuring me often both by words and message, that if I had a will to stay among them, he would make my means better than what was given me by my Lord of Essex ; doubtless if I had not got away so opportunely as I did, he would have paid me still in Farney, when he was beaten back from Tredagh, and after perhaps instead of means to live upon, I might have got a halter, for I do much fear that all the poor English which were left alive in that Country were served with the same sauce.

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 63

    As the companion tells it

    In 1642, Monaghan was the scene of a hanging and a captivity. Richard Blayney, cousin to Lord Blayney, was hanged in the garden of Monaghan Castle by warrant from Sir Phelim Roe O'Neale, procured at the instance of Art Mc Brian Lannagh McMahon. The source calls McMahon a wicked villain, and says he since died mad. Lady Blayney and her son were among other prisoners held at the castle before being moved to lodgings in the town. One prisoner who survived left an account. After being put out of the Castle of Carrick, he was removed to the house of Redmond Burke, an old servant of the Lord of Essex, where he stayed from the 25th of October until Thursday the 3rd of March, when he set out for Dublin. He confessed that during his imprisonment he was well treated by Coll Mc Bryan, who suffered him to want neither meat nor other necessaries, and that Redmond Burke and his wife were very beneficial to him on all occasions. Yet for all the favour he had from Coll Mc Bryan and the gentlemen of the country, he could not banish fear from his heart, still thinking on their maxim that "faith is not to be kept with hereticks," for so they accounted Protestants, and that he was an Englishman, which was a main fault with him. Much labour he had to get a pass from Coll Mc Bryan, who was earnest with him to stay, assuring him by words and message that if he would stay among them, he would make his means better than what was given him by the Lord of Essex. He got away opportunely. Had he not, Coll Mc Bryan would have paid him still in Farney when he was beaten back from Tredagh, and perhaps instead of means to live upon, he might have got a halter. He feared that all the poor English left alive in that country were served with the same sauce.

32. St. Leger's devastating 1541 expedition from the borders of Farney

    Farney · barony · Monaghan · 1541

    Sir Anthony St. Leger led a 22-day expedition against O'Neill, dispatching a letter from the borders of Ferney describing the burning of great part of the country and destruction of corn and butter, the chief livelihood of the territory.

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    of October, "from the borders of Ferney," that they had been in his (O'Neill's) country, "by the space of 22 daies, and have burnid grete part of the same, and distroyed miche of his cornis and butters, whiche is the grete lyvinges of his contrey." "Thankes be to God," they conclude, "all this your Realme is in metelie good quyete, as suche a wilde contrey may be, excepte only the saide Oneil, and such as take his parte, which are no grete number, and, with Goddes grace, shall in shorte tyme be fewer ; whiche to put in execution to do, we will, according our bound en dewties, use our diligente paynes."36

    After this successful foray, the Mac Mahons and many other septs gave in their allegiance to the government, "33 H. VIII." [1541.]

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 21

    As the companion tells it

    In 1541 Sir Anthony St. Leger led an expedition against O'Neill. They spent 22 days in his country, burning a great part of it and destroying much of his corn and butter, which was the chief livelihood of the territory. A letter dispatched from the borders of Farney in October described what they had done. They wrote that they had been in O'Neill's country and had burned great part of the same and destroyed much of his corn and butters, which is the great livings of his country. They added thanks to God that all this your realm is in meetly good quiet, except only O'Neill and such as take his part, which are no great number. After this foray the Mac Mahons and many other septs gave in their allegiance to the government.

33. Capture of Rossa Mac Mahon at Monaghan

    Monaghan · town · Monaghan

    A nighttime murder raid was carried out by a small party accompanied by only sixteen farmers. During the attack, Rossa, son of Magnus, son of Hugh Roe Mac Mahon, was captured at Mac Mahon's house in Monaghan.

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    Roe, son of Rory,] they were accompanied by only sixteen Scolloges [farmers,] in committing that murder at night. They captured Rossa, son of Magnus, son of Hugh Roe Mac Mahon in that house. [Mac Mahon's at Monaghan.]

    " Brian, son of Redmond Mac Mahon, and the sons of Glaisney, went to plunder Mac Mahon and his sons, in a week after the killing of Glaisney, and they succeeded in carrying off the prey, although some were killed on both sides.

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 16

    As the companion tells it

    Monaghan was where Rossa, son of Magnus, son of Hugh Roe Mac Mahon, was taken. A small party came at night, with only sixteen farmers beside them, to commit murder. They seized Rossa in that house, Mac Mahon's house at Monaghan. A week after the killing of Glaisney, Brian, son of Redmond Mac Mahon, and the sons of Glaisney went to plunder Mac Mahon and his sons. They carried off the prey, though some were killed on both sides.

34. Hugh Roe's armed levy in Farney

    Farney · barony · Monaghan · 1588

    Hugh Roe MacMahon claimed a rent was due to him from Farney and marched forces into the territory in a warlike manner to seize distress. This action was later used as the pretext for charging him with high treason.

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    kept straight, and starved till they found him guilty. The Treason for which he was condemned, was because some two yeeres before, he pretending a rent due unto him out of the Ferney, upon that pretence levied forces, and so marching into the Ferney in a warlike manner made a distress for the same, (which by the English law may perhaps be treason, but in that country never before subject to law, it was thought no rare thing nor great offence). The greatest part of the Countrey was divided betweene foure gentlemen of that name, under a yeerely rent to the Queene, and [as they said] not without payment of a good fine underhand. The Marshall Sir Henry Bagnoll had part of the Countrey, Captaine Henslowe was made Seneshall of the Countrey, and had the gentlemans chiefe house, with a portion of land, and to divers others smaller portions of land were assigned, and the Irish spared not to say that these men were all the contrivers of his death, and that every one paid something for his share. Hereupon the Irish of that name, besides the former allegations exclaimed that their kinsman was trecherously executed, to entitle the Queene to his land, and to extinguish the name of Mac-Mahowne, & that his substance was divided betweene the Lord Deputy and the Marshall, yea, that a pardon was offered to one of the Jury for his son, being in danger of the law, upon condition that he would consent to find this his kinsman guilty."32

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 42

    As the companion tells it

    The barony of Farney lies along this road. In 1588, Hugh Roe MacMahon claimed a rent was due to him from the territory. On that pretence he levied forces and marched into Farney in a warlike manner, seizing distress for what he said he was owed. By English law that might be treason, but in that country, never before subject to law, it was thought no rare thing nor great offence. Two years later, this same act was the treason for which he was condemned. After his execution, most of Farney was divided between four gentlemen of that name, under a yearly rent to the Queen, and not, as they said, without payment of a good fine underhand. The Marshall, Sir Henry Bagnoll, had part of the country. Captain Henslowe was made Seneshall and took the gentlemen's chief house with a portion of land. Smaller portions went to others. The Irish did not spare their words. They said these men were the contrivers of his death, every one paying something for his share. They exclaimed that their kinsman was treacherously executed to entitle the Queen to his land and to extinguish the name of MacMahon. They said his substance was divided between the Lord Deputy and the Marshall, and that a pardon was offered to one of the jury for his son, who was in danger of the law, on condition he would consent to find his kinsman guilty.

35. Ludlow places garrison at Castle Blayney

    Castleblayney · town · Monaghan · 1652

    After the cave massacre near Carrickmacross, Ludlow marched to Castle Blayney where he left a party of foot soldiers, as he had done at Carrickmacross and Newry, thereby securing that part of County Monaghan.

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    of the entrance fixed his pistol, and shot the first of our men into the head, by whose loss we found that the smoke had not taken the designed effect. But seeing no other way to reduce them, I caused the trial to be repeated, and upon examination found, that though a great smoke went into the cavity of the rock, yet it came out again at other crevices ; upon which I ordered those places to be closely stopped, and another smother made, about an hour and an half after this, one of them was heard to groan very strongly, and afterwards more weakly, whereby we presumed that the work was done, yet the fire was continued till about midnight, and then taken away, that the place might be cool enough for ours to enter next morning, at which time some went in armed with back, breast, and head-piece, to prevent such another accident as fell at their first attempt ; but they had not gone above six yards before they found the man that had been heard to groan, who was the same that had killed one of our men with his pistol, and who resolving not to quit his post, had been, upon stopping the holes of the rock, choaked by the smoke ; our soldiers put a rope about his neck and drew him out ; the passage being cleared, they entered, and having put about fifteen to the sword, brought four or five out alive, with the Priests robes, a crucifix, chalice, and other furniture of that kind. Those within preserved themselves by laying their heads close to a water that ran through the rock, we found two rooms in the place, one of which was large enough to turn a pike, and having filled the mouth of it with large stones, we quitted it, and marched to Castle Blayney, where I left a party of foot, as I had done before at Carrick, and Newry, whereby that part of the county of Monaghan was pretty well secured." "

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 71

    As the companion tells it

    Castleblayney in County Monaghan. In 1652, this was where Ludlow placed a garrison after a brutal fight at a cave near Carrickmacross. The story of how he came here is grim. A man at the cave entrance had fixed his pistol and shot the first of Ludlow's men in the head. They had tried to smoke the people out, but the smoke came out again at other crevices in the rock. So Ludlow ordered those places to be closely stopped, and another smother made. About an hour and a half later, one of those inside was heard to groan strongly, then more weakly. They presumed the work was done, but they kept the fire going until about midnight, then took it away so the place would be cool enough to enter next morning. Some soldiers went in armed with back, breast, and head-piece, to prevent another such accident. They had not gone above six yards before they found the man who had groaned. He was the same man who had killed one of theirs with his pistol. He had refused to quit his post, and had been choked by the smoke when the holes of the rock were stopped. The soldiers put a rope about his neck and drew him out. The passage cleared, they entered, and put about fifteen to the sword. They brought four or five out alive, with priest's robes, a crucifix, a chalice, and other things of that kind. Those inside had tried to preserve themselves by laying their heads close to water that ran through the rock. Two rooms were found, one large enough to turn a pike. Having filled the mouth of it with large stones, they quitted it, and marched to Castle Blayney, where Ludlow left a party of foot, as he had done before at Carrick and Newry, whereby that part of the county of Monaghan was, as he put it, pretty well secured.

36. Mac Guires burn Dartree and Lis-na-n-Gabher

    Dartree · barony · Monaghan

    When the Mac Mahons of Dartree heard of Mac Guire's preparations, they fled with their cattle to fastnesses on the Eoganach and Mourne Mountains. Mac Guire and Philip Mc Guire then led forces into Dartree, burned the entire territory, and destroyed the residence of Owen, son of Rory Mac Mahon, called Lis-na-n-Gabher (the fort of the Goats).

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    of Mac Mahon heard of Mac Guires preparations, they went with their cattle into their fastnesses, viz. on the Eoganach, and the Mourne Mountains, Mc Guire and Philip Mc Guire then led their forces into Dartree-Coin-Innse, and as they did not overtake their prey, they burned all Dartree, and the residence of Owen, son of Rory Mac Mahon, i. e. Livs-na-n-Gabher [the fort of the Goats], after which they returned home."

    It is evident that Sliabh Mudhorn, which is the original of the proper name translated Mourne Mountains above, cannot be the Mourne Mountains in Down, as they would be too distant for the inhabitants of Dartree to drive their cattle into, but a range of heights running through the Barony of Cremourne, in the County of Monaghan, to the north of Farney. This Territory is called provincia Mugdornorum by Adamnan & regio Mugdornorum by the author of the Tripartite Life of St. Patrick, both which names are intended as translations of the Irish Crioch Mughdhorna, which means the Country of the Mughdorni, who were the descendants of Mughdhorn-dubh [the black], the son of Colla Meann. It appears from a pedigree of the Mac Mahons preserved in an Irish MS. in T. C. D. that the Barony of Mourne in the County of Down was so called from a tribe of the Mac Mahons, inhabitants of Crioch Mughdhorna in Monaghan, who emigrated to the former in the time of Niall the oppressive, the son of Hugh, son of Magnus Mac Mahon, and transferred the name of their former to their new territory.

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 81

    As the companion tells it

    The barony of Dartree is the land the Mac Mahons once held and Mac Guire once burned. When the Mac Mahons of Dartree heard of Mac Guire's preparations, they took their cattle into their fastnesses on the Eoganach and the Mourne Mountains. Mac Guire and Philip Mc Guire then led their forces into Dartree. They did not overtake their prey, so they burned all Dartree and the residence of Owen, son of Rory Mac Mahon, called Lis-na-n-Gabher, the fort of the Goats. After that they returned home. The Mourne Mountains named here are not the Mourne Mountains in County Down, too distant for the people of Dartree to drive cattle to. They are a range of heights through the Barony of Cremourne in County Monaghan, north of Farney. This territory was called provincia Mugdornorum by Adamnan and regio Mugdornorum by the author of the Tripartite Life of Saint Patrick. Both names translate the Irish Crioch Mughdhorna, the Country of the Mughdorni, who were descendants of Mughdhorn-dubh the black, son of Colla Meann. A pedigree of the Mac Mahons preserved in an Irish manuscript in Trinity College Dublin shows that the Barony of Mourne in County Down took its name from a tribe of the Mac Mahons, inhabitants of Crioch Mughdhorna in Monaghan, who emigrated there in the time of Niall the oppressive, son of Hugh, son of Magnus Mac Mahon, and transferred the name of their former territory to their new one.

37. Morough O'Carroll dies at Mellifont Abbey

    Mellifont · townland · Louth · 1189

    Morough O'Carroll, who succeeded Donogh as Lord of Oriell, died in 1189 at the Abbey of Mellefont (Mellifont) in County Louth, after an approved repentance. His death placed Farney under the lordship of his successor, who was captured and killed by the English in 1193.

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    Morough O'Carroll succeeded Donogh as Lord of Oriell ; his death is stated to have taken place in 1189, "in the great Monastery," i. e. the Abbey of Mellefont, in the County of Louth, " after an approved repentance." The next O'Carroll, Lord of Oriell, was captured by the English in 1193, " who first put out his eyes and then hanged him." Farney in the mean time had been vanquished by De Courcy, though the Irish Annalists do not give any account of the fact ; they tell, however, of the demolition of Richard Fleming's Castle at Slane in 1176, by Malachin M'Laughlin at the head of the people of Tyrone and Oriell, and of a great battle which was fought by De Courcy at Glenn Righe [the Valley of the Newry river] in 1178. Hanmer, however, in his Chronicle, compiled in 1571, has given a minute account of a battle said to have taken place in Farney at about this period, and although the passage is somewhat long, and wordy, and has, I suspect, but little foundation beyond the imagination of the learned compiler (or rather the author whom he quotes^,57 it must not be here omitted as a specimen of fabulous history connected with the district.

    " The third battaile that Sir John de Courcy fought, was in Ferng, against eleven thousand Irish men : the occasion was thus, Courcy had builded many castles throughout Ulster, and especially in Fern, where Mac Mahon dwelled : this Mac Mahon with solemne protestations vowed to become a true and faithfull subject, gave Courcy many gifts, and made him his Goship, which is a league of amitie highly esteemed in Ireland. Whereupon Courcy gave him two Castles with their demeanes to hold of him. Within one moneth after, this Mac Mahon returning to his vomit, brake

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 7

    As the companion tells it

    Close to Mellifont, in 1189, Morough O'Carroll died. He had succeeded Donogh as Lord of Oriell, and his death is recorded as taking place in the great monastery, the Abbey of Mellifont, after an approved repentance. The next O'Carroll to hold the lordship of Oriell fared worse. He was captured by the English in 1193, who first put out his eyes and then hanged him. In the meantime, Farney had been vanquished by De Courcy, though the Irish Annalists give no account of it. They do tell of the demolition of Richard Fleming's Castle at Slane in 1176, by Malachin M'Laughlin at the head of the people of Tyrone and Oriell, and of a great battle fought by De Courcy at Glenn Righe, the Valley of the Newry river, in 1178. Hanmer, in his Chronicle compiled in 1571, gives a minute account of a battle said to have taken place in Farney at about this period. The passage is long and wordy and has, the author suspects, little foundation beyond the imagination of the learned compiler, or rather the author whom he quotes. Yet it must not be omitted as a specimen of fabulous history connected with the district. The third battle that Sir John de Courcy fought was in Farney, against 11,000 Irish men. The occasion was this. Courcy had built many castles throughout Ulster, and especially in Farney, where Mac Mahon dwelled. This Mac Mahon, with solemn protestations, vowed to become a true and faithful subject, gave Courcy many gifts, and made him his Goship, which is a league of amity highly esteemed in Ireland. Courcy gave him two castles with their demesnes to hold of him. Within one month after, this Mac Mahon, returning to his vomit, broke his word.

38. Tyrone's forces encamp at Donnamayne in Farney, raiding neighbours

    Donaghmoyne · townland · Monaghan · 1587–1588

    Forces loyal to the Earl of Tyrone camped at Donnamayne in Farney with hundreds of horsemen, galloglasses, kern, and shot, having requisitioned a month's victuals from the local population. They preyed upon neighbouring territories to compel submission to the Earl's command.

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    that is betwixt them and the Breimy of purpose to pray the Brenny yf the Orelias will not be sworne to be at the Erles comandiiit. One Sonday night laste he campt at Donnamayne in fferny and are in yc Brenny er this yf waters have not letted them : They have taken up a monethes victualls. It is most true that Sr Rosse Mc Mahon and his brother and all his best followers are sworne to be at the Erles comandiiit and the Erie hath given to Sr Rosse and his brother, and to Rorie Mc Gilpatrick 3 horsemens apparells ; The Erles men do openlie say that whatsoever they shall doe in yor Lo : time, that the next deputie will forgive them. The Erie is building of a forte in a straight that is belowe the mountaine of Slewgallin, and left his forceis to pray the Brenny as his owne men doe openlie avouche. Presentlie upon Sr Rosse his Retourne from the Erie he prayed his next neighbors of Magwires countrie, called Donogh Mc Guires tounes, and O'Donnells men did the like upon their next neighbours of Mc Guires countrie, of purpose to compell Magwire to be at the Erles comandiiit as is openlie reported."

    Mr. Duke ends his letter with this pithy sentence, — " My Good Lo : whosoeuer will beleve that the Irishrie wilbe duetifull and obedient although they sware y' never so much, except there be a present force of men to comande them, will be greatlie deceyved."

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 40

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere close to Donaghmoyne, in the years 1587 and 1588, the Earl of Tyrone's forces made camp. They came on a Sunday night and settled in Farney. They had taken up a month's victuals from the country, and they meant to prey upon the Brenny if the Orelias would not swear to be at the Earl's command. Sir Ross McMahon and his brother and all his best followers had already sworn to be at the Earl's command. The Earl gave to Sir Ross, his brother, and to Rorie McGilpatrick, three horsemen's apparels. The Earl's men said openly that whatever they did in the lord's time, the next deputy would forgive them. The Earl was building a fort in a strait below the mountain of Slewgallin, and he left his forces to prey the Brenny, as his own men openly avowed. Upon Sir Ross's return from the Earl, he preyed his nearest neighbours of Magwire's country, the towns called Donogh McGuire's. O'Donnell's men did the same upon their nearest neighbours of McGuire's country. The purpose, as was openly reported, was to compel Magwire to be at the Earl's command. Duke, whose letter records this, ends with these words from the source: "whosoever will believe that the Irishry will be dutiful and obedient although they swear never so much, except there be a present force of men to command them, will be greatly deceived."

39. Drumever and Ballymackney village described in 1736 Survey

    Drumever · townland · Monaghan · 1705–1736

    The 1736 Survey describes Drumever as finely situated with a two-story stone and lime wall house built in 1705 by John Fitch, a pigeon house, gardens, orchard, and a great number of ash and timber trees. A village called Ballymackney stood on it with a well-watered corn mill, and the lands offered meadow, fishing, and fowling.

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    Drumever, Otiu^tt) eib]n, Ebhears (Ivors) Ridge. The Survey of 1736 remarks, " it is finely situated & well improved, having a good stone & lime wall house two story high, a Pidgeon house, & good offices, & a great number of Ash & other Timber Trees w* good gardens & a small Orchard, on it stands a village called Bally mackney, where there is a well water'd Corn mill, it has good conveniency of Meadow Fire & Water, Fishing & Fowling," it was held by John Fitch, Esq. by whom the house was built in 1705.

    Drumhaskett, Onuirri VeAr5Ai8, Hill of the Hewings.

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 110

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere around here is Drumever, which a 1736 survey calls "finely situated and well improved." John Fitch, who held the property, built a stone and lime house here in 1705. It stood two stories high, with a pigeon house, good offices, gardens, and a small orchard. A great number of ash and other timber trees stood on the land. A village called Ballymackney stood on it as well, with a well-watered corn mill. The survey noted "good conveniency of meadow, fire and water, fishing and fowling." All of this Fitch held together.

40. Essex observes local reluctance at Carrickfergus

    near Carrickfergus · town · Antrim · 1573

    Writing from Knockfergus (Carrickfergus) in November 1573, the Earl of Essex observed that the local people were unwilling to become subjects of a subject rather than of the Queen directly. This reflects the political tensions and local resistance during the Essex enterprise in Ulster.

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    The following letter from the Earl from " Knockfergus, November 2, 1573," to the Lords of the Council, evinces the disinterested motives which governed all his actions. Lord Rich had deserted him as early as the 28th of October, and when winter set in, most of the gentlemen who had attended him, had returned into England on promise [never fulfilled] of returning in the spring. After stating that " the people do not so muche repyne and grudge to become subjects, as to become subject to a subject, namyng Mr. Smythe and mee:" he proceeds, "Therefore this I saie that like as I come not hither to make myne owne proffite, but rather for her Mat,es honr and beneffit, and to deserve well of her highnes, and the hole realme of England, so if it please hir highnes to proceade but a little further then her Matie hathe donne, and to beare but the rest of the charge of the footemen and kerne, I will at myne owne coste serve her wth myselfe, and a hundreth horse wth oute entertainment for the subduinge of this Countrey

    18 Robert 2d Lord Rich, ob. 1581 ; he was father of Robert Rich, created Earl of Warwick.

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 26

    As the companion tells it

    Carrickfergus in Antrim. In November 1573 the Earl of Essex was writing from here to the Lords of the Council. He had already lost support. Lord Rich had deserted him by the 28th of October. When winter came, most of the gentlemen who had followed him went back to England, promising to return in the spring, a promise never kept. Essex wrote that the people did not so much resent becoming subjects as becoming subject to a subject, naming Mr. Smythe and himself. He insisted he had not come for his own profit, but for the honour and benefit of her Majesty, and to deserve well of her and the whole realm of England. He asked only that the Queen proceed a little further than she had done, and bear the rest of the charge of the footmen and kerne. In return he would serve at his own cost, with himself and 100 horse, without entertainment, for the subduing of this country.

41. Mac Mahon war and pasturage appropriation in Farney

    Farney · barony · Monaghan · 1475

    In 1475, a war broke out between Mac Mahon and the sons of Hugh Roe Mac Mahon, who forcibly appropriated the pasturage of Farney for their own cattle. Mac Mahon passed through the area but was ultimately defeated and captured.

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    " 1475, a great war broke out between Mac Mahon, [Redmond, the son of Rory,] and the sons of Hugh Roe Mac Mahon, the sons of Hugh forcibly appropriated the pasturage of Farney to the use of their own cattle, and an English force came to their support. Mac Mahon came in through the Erganach,11 and passed out again in Farney, and the sons of Hugh removed to the English settlement. Mac Mahon and his forces then made an inroad on the English settlement, but were opposed by the sons of Hugh Roe, and the English : Mac Mahon was defeated, himself and Brian, son of Rory Mac Mahon captured, and a great number of his people either killed or taken prisoners."

    Again, we are told that in 1480, "a war broke out between the sons of Hugh Roe Mac Mahon, and the sons of Redmond Mac Mahon, the sons of Redmond were much plundered, and driven into Breifny, where they took protection under O'Reilly."

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 15

    As the companion tells it

    In 1475, the barony of Farney became the ground of a war between Mac Mahon, Redmond the son of Rory, and the sons of Hugh Roe Mac Mahon. The sons of Hugh took the pasturage there for their own cattle, by force, and an English force came to support them. Mac Mahon came in through the Erganach and passed out again into that same territory. The sons of Hugh moved to the English settlement. Mac Mahon and his forces then made an inroad on that settlement, but the sons of Hugh Roe and the English stood against them. Mac Mahon was defeated. He and Brian, son of Rory Mac Mahon, were captured, and a great number of his people were killed or taken prisoners. Five years later, in 1480, another war broke out, between the sons of Hugh Roe Mac Mahon and the sons of Redmond Mac Mahon. The sons of Redmond were plundered and driven into Breifny, where they took protection under O'Reilly.

42. O'Neil burns Farney, Stonetown and Killanny

    Farney · barony · Monaghan · 1568

    In September 1568, Tirlaghe Leynagh (O'Neil), accompanied by Mc Mahon and others, raided Farney and burned it, along with Stonetown and Kyllany in the County of Louth. The Sheriff and gentlemen of the country pursued them four or five miles into Farney but could not overtake them.

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    The Territory of Farney was continually the scene of these hostile forays, thus Thomas, Lord of Louth,9 in a letter to the Lords of the Council, dated "from Tallanstowne the vthof September, 1568," describes an incursion of " Tirrelagh Leynagh" (O'Neil), " accompanied with Mac Mahon, O'Kaahan, and divers others to fferney and dyd bourne the same, wth Stontowne and Kyllany peell of the County e of Lowth, prayes they toke none. I, the Sheriff, wth the gentlemen of the Countrey dyd followe them a fower or fyve myles into fferney, and could not overtake them, but yf we dyd we shuld lytle prevayle, for that by report of the Capten of ffarney, Tirlaghe his force was very greate."10 From this letter it would appear that the Captain or petty Chieftain of Farney, was at this period opposed to O'Neil, and we shall see hereafter that his successor Ever Mc Mahon, in a petition to the Queen in 1592, declared that "the Captains of his name were all slain by the O'Neils, who were always enemies to the Captains of Ferney." He states also his services against his own sept, and according to his own account, confirmed too by the testimony of the lords of the pale, had been ever a loyal subject to her Majesty. The truth seems to have been, that the Captains of Farney, from their position on the frontiers thought it more prudent to behave with greater il cyvillity" to their neighbours of Anglo- See Tracts relating to Ireland, vol. ii. page 89, printed by the Irish Archaeological Society. The following from the State Paper Office appears to be about the same date:

    " The pticular chardge of every cheffe gentleman inhabytinge from the Blacke Water to the Englyshe Pale, as they are bownd to answer in rysings out. After their auncient custome ; converted into Beves and so into Moneye."

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir

    As the companion tells it

    In September 1568, Tirlaghe Leynagh, O'Neil, came into the barony of Farney with Mc Mahon, O'Kaahan, and others, and burned it, along with Stonetown and Killanny in the County of Louth. They took no plunder. Thomas, Lord of Louth, wrote to the Lords of the Council from Tallanstowne on the 5th of September, 1568, describing the incursion. He said the Sheriff and the gentlemen of the country followed them four or five miles into Farney but could not overtake them. He added that even if they had, they would have prevailed little, for the Captain of Farney reported that O'Neil's force was very great. From this letter it appears the Captain of Farney was opposed to O'Neil at this time. His successor, Ever Mc Mahon, later petitioned the Queen in 1592, declaring that the Captains of his name were all slain by the O'Neils, who were always enemies to the Captains of Ferney. He claimed to have served against his own sept and to have been ever a loyal subject to her Majesty, a claim confirmed by the testimony of the lords of the Pale. The truth seems to have been that the Captains of Farney, from their position on the frontiers, thought it more prudent to behave with greater civility toward their neighbours of Anglo-Irish influence.

43. De Courcy's battle in Farney against Mac Mahon

    Farney · barony · Monaghan

    According to Hanmer's Chronicle (1571), Sir John de Courcy fought his third battle in Farney against eleven thousand Irishmen. De Courcy had built castles in Farney where Mac Mahon dwelled, and Mac Mahon initially submitted and received two castles before breaking his alliance.

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    " The third battaile that Sir John de Courcy fought, was in Ferng, against eleven thousand Irish men : the occasion was thus, Courcy had builded many castles throughout Ulster, and especially in Fern, where Mac Mahon dwelled : this Mac Mahon with solemne protestations vowed to become a true and faithfull subject, gave Courcy many gifts, and made him his Goship, which is a league of amitie highly esteemed in Ireland. Whereupon Courcy gave him two Castles with their demeanes to hold of him. Within one moneth after, this Mac Mahon returning to his vomit, brake

    57 An account of the exploits of De Courcy, " written in Latin by a Fryer in the north, which book O'Neill hrought to Armagh, & was translated into English by ... Dowdall, Primate there, anno 1551."

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 7

    As the companion tells it

    Sir John de Courcy built castles throughout Ulster, and in Farney, where Mac Mahon dwelt. Mac Mahon vowed to become a true and faithful subject, gave de Courcy gifts, and made him his "Goship," which is "a league of amitie highly esteemed in Ireland." De Courcy gave him 2 castles with their demesnes to hold. Within 1 month, Mac Mahon broke that alliance. This was the occasion of de Courcy's third battle, fought in Farney against 11,000 Irish men.

44. Donell's month-long standoff at Clonkeen in Fer-Ross

    Clonkeen · parish · Louth · 1113

    In 1113, Mortogh O'Brien led an army to Grenog, and Donell, son of Mac Loghlin, marched the northern nobles against him, taking up position at Cluain-Cain in Fer-Ross (modern Clonkeen). The two armies faced each other for a full month until the Coarb of St. Patrick brokered a year's peace.

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    1113. Mortogh O'Brien, King of Leth-Jllogha,53 led an army both of laity and clergy to Grenog.5i Donell, the son of Mac Loghlin, at the head of the nobles of the North of Ireland marched against him, and took up his position at Cluain-Cain35 Fer-Ross; in this manner they remained for a whole month opposite to each other, until Ceallagh, the Coarb of Saint Patrick 56 with the Staff of Jesus, made a year's peace between them."

    For some years prior to the Anglo-Norman Invasion, the Irish Annalists teem with accounts of the wars between the O'Carrolls, then Lords of Oriell, and the surrounding tribes : as however none of these skirmishes are imme-

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 6

    As the companion tells it

    In 1113, the parish of Clonkeen was where two armies stood against each other for a full month. Mortogh O'Brien led an army of laity and clergy to Grenog. Donell, son of Mac Loghlin, marched the nobles of the North of Ireland against him and took up his position at Cluain-Cain in Fer-Ross. For a whole month they remained opposite each other. Then Ceallagh, the Coarb of Saint Patrick, came with the Staff of Jesus and made a year's peace between them.

45. Earl of Kildare's raid into Farney, 1471

    Farney · barony · Monaghan · 1471

    In 1471, the Earl of Kildare and the English of Meath went into Farney and took a great prey from Mac Mahon. Mac Mahon then mustered his country's forces and committed great devastations by preying and burning on the English in return.

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    It was this Phelim, called in Irish, Felim-an-fhiona, [of the wine,] son of Bryan, son of Ardgal, who founded on the site of an antient abbey at Monaghan, a monastery for Conventual Franciscans,10 in the year 1462. He was succeeded as Lord of Oriell, and Chief of his name, by his cousin Owen, son of Rory Mac Mahon, ancestor of the Mac Mahons of Dartrey, who survived but nine months. His brother Redmond was the next Mac Mahon, who succeeded, according to the four Masters, in 1467. In 1471, according to the same authority, " The Earl of Kildare, and the English of Meath, went into Farney, and took a great prey from Mac Mahon, who then mustered the forces of his country, and committed great devastations, both by preying, and burning, on the English in return."

    Four years later an internal feud took place between the Mac-Mahon,

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 14

    As the companion tells it

    Farney is the barony you are passing through. In 1471, the Earl of Kildare and the English of Meath came into this country and took a great prey from Mac Mahon. At that time, Redmond Mac Mahon was chief, having succeeded in 1467, according to the Annals of the Four Masters. He had taken the lordship after his brother Owen, son of Rory Mac Mahon, who lived only nine months as chief. Their cousin Phelim, called in Irish Felim-an-fhiona, of the wine, had ruled before them and founded a monastery for Conventual Franciscans at Monaghan in 1462, on the site of an ancient abbey. When Kildare's raid came, Mac Mahon did not let it pass. He mustered the forces of his country and, as the old record puts it, committed great devastations, both by preying and burning, on the English in return.

46. Human skeleton found at Essex Castle, Carrickmacross, 1836

    Carrickmacross · town · Monaghan · 1836

    During digging behind Essex Castle in Carrickmacross in 1836, a human skeleton was found nine feet below the surface with the remains of an iron bolt attached to a leg bone. The castle's materials had earlier been used to build the Market House of Carrickmacross in 1780.

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    the round archway of the gateway, however, still exists. In the year 1836, in digging at the back of Essex Castle, a human skeleton was found nine feet below the surface ; the remains of an iron bolt were attached to one of the leg bones. The materials of this Castle were employed in building the Market House of Carickmacross, in 1780.

    2 S. P. O.

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 55

    As the companion tells it

    The round archway of an old gateway still stands in Carrickmacross. In 1836, digging behind Essex Castle turned up a human skeleton, nine feet below the surface, with the remains of an iron bolt attached to one of the leg bones. The castle's materials had already been used in 1780 to build the Market House of Carrickmacross.

47. Lord Lisle takes Carrickmacross Castle from rebels

    Carrickmacross · town · Monaghan · 1642

    In mid-September 1642, Lord Lisle marched into County Monaghan and besieged Carrickmacross Castle, a well-fortified house of the Earl of Essex held by rebels. The rebels fled after one day of cannon bombardment, leaving their provisions behind.

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    The Castle of Carrickmacross, which Sir John Temple, in his History of the Irish Rebellion, describes as " a strong pile," continued in the hands of the Irish Rebels till " about the middle of September," when it was taken by Lord Lisle,33 " with great Store of Prey, and destruction of the Rebels," adds Sir John Temple ; another author has given a more particular account in the following words, " About the middle of September 1642, Lord Lysle with the men under his command, passing into the County of Monaghan, he sat down before Carrickmac Ross, a house of the Earl of Essex, a house very well fortified, where the rebels having endured the battery of two pieces of cannon for one day, fled away the next night, (The outward guards of the beseigers being remissly attended,) leaving their provisions of all sorts behind them ; The Lord Lysle after this success, better much than he could expect, with so small forces, having put a garrison in the place returned to

    33 Robert Sydney, son and heir of Robert, Earl of Leicester, ob. 1677.

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 68

    As the companion tells it

    The town of Carrickmacross saw a brief siege in 1642. Sir John Temple, in his History of the Irish Rebellion, called the castle here a strong pile. It had stayed in the hands of the Irish rebels until about the middle of September, when Lord Lisle took it, with great store of prey and destruction of the rebels, as Temple wrote. Another author gave a fuller account. About the middle of September 1642, Lord Lisle with the men under his command passed into the County of Monaghan and sat down before Carrickmacross, a house of the Earl of Essex, a house very well fortified. The rebels endured the battery of two pieces of cannon for one day, then fled away the next night, the outward guards of the besiegers being remissly attended. They left their provisions of all sorts behind them. Lord Lisle, after this success, better much than he could expect with so small forces, put a garrison in the place and returned.

48. Maguire's failed assault on Monaghan Abbey garrison, 1593

    Monaghan · town · Monaghan · 1593

    Magwyre attacked the garrison of Monaghan stationed in the Abbey there but was repulsed, losing 24 of his best leaders killed on the spot and about 60 others sorely wounded. The garrison consisted of only 200 foot soldiers.

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    " Magwyre hath trayterouslie slipped from his said othe & promiss made to his Lp. [Tyrone], & in open hostilitie hath made suddaine incursions into the Countie of Monourghan, and don some burnings and killings as well in sondry ptes there, namelie upon fferney, as also upon Castle ringe being Mr. Talbotts lands upon the borders of the Countie of Lowth, and in his retorne gave a prowde attempt upon the garrison of Monourghan lying in the Abbey there, from whence neverthelesse they weare repulsed wth the losse of xxiiij of their best leaders left deade upon the place, and about vixx others sore wounded, as the Seneschall there hath advertized, to the greate comendacon of the Soldiers beino; but cc foote." 59

    o

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 52

    As the companion tells it

    In 1593, Maguire broke an oath he had made to Tyrone and turned to open hostility, raiding into County Monaghan. He burned and killed in several parts, striking at Farney and at Castle Ring, which was Mr. Talbot's land on the borders of County Louth. On his way back he made what the record calls a proud attempt upon the garrison of Monaghan, which lay in the Abbey. The garrison drove them off. Maguire lost 24 of his best leaders left dead upon the place, and about 60 others sorely wounded. The garrison was only 200 foot soldiers. The Seneschall there advertised the outcome, noting the great commendation of the soldiers, who were but 200 foot.

49. Prisoners at Carrickmacross denied bread and drink

    Carrickmacross · town · Monaghan · 1641–1642

    English inhabitants of Farney—men, women, and children—were kept prisoner in several houses in the town of Carrick and given flesh to eat but no bread or drink, until their execution on 2 January 1642.

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    " Divers other Inhabitants of Farney, men women and children, were kept prisoners in several houses of the town, and had flesh allowed them to eat, but no bread or drink, and there they remained till the fatall day of execution which was on Sunday, the 2nd of January last ; in this masacre perished Mr. William Williams My Lord of Essex his Seneschall, Mr. Gabriell Williams his Brother, Mr. Ithell Jones, his brother in law, who came newly out of Wales to visit him, Richard Hollis the manager of Mrs. Ushers estate in Farney, John Morice, Clerk to Sr Henry Spotswood, Richard Gates newly come out of England, Clerk to Mr. Richard Blayney, Miles Powley Bailiff of his husbandry, Edward Crickley Receiver of Mr Dillons rents in Farney, Philip Farley a Farmer in Cormoy, Richard Taylor Shepherd to the Lord Bishop of Cloyne, John Jackson, a Tailor in Carrick, Thomas Aldersey Victualler there, Thomas Osburn overseer of Mrs. Ushers

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 63

    As the companion tells it

    Carrickmacross holds a grim chapter from 1641. English inhabitants of Farney, men, women, and children, were kept prisoners in several houses of the town. They had flesh allowed them to eat, but no bread or drink. There they remained until the fatal day of execution, which was Sunday, the 2nd of January 1642. In that massacre perished Mr. William Williams, Lord of Essex his Seneschall, and Mr. Gabriell Williams his brother. Mr. Ithell Jones, his brother-in-law, had come newly out of Wales to visit him. Richard Hollis, the manager of Mrs. Usher's estate in Farney, was killed. So was John Morice, clerk to Sir Henry Spotswood, and Richard Gates, newly come out of England, clerk to Mr. Richard Blayney. Miles Powley, bailiff of his husbandry, Edward Crickley, receiver of Mr. Dillon's rents in Farney, Philip Farley, a farmer in Cormoy, Richard Taylor, shepherd to the Lord Bishop of Cloyne, John Jackson, a tailor in Carrick, Thomas Aldersey, victualler there, and Thomas Osburn, overseer of Mrs. Usher's estate.

50. Thomas Petre builds fortified houses at Cloghoge for English tenants

    Cloghoge and Tievadinna · townland · Monaghan · 1603–1625

    In the reign of James I, Thomas Petre erected a slated stone house and four additional stone houses at Cloghoge and Tievadinna for English or British tenants, because the place was infested with thieves and rebels. In 1655, the same townland still had 71 acres of bushy wood.

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    Cloghoge and Tievadinna, CI0663, Stoney or of Stoties. cAeb At) bu^ne, The side of the man. Here Thomas Petre, in the reign of James I. erected " a House of lime & stone slated, & four houses more of stone, for English or British Tenants to inhabit & dwell in, for the safety of themselves & their goods, the place being infested much with thieves & rebells." See page 126, note. There were " 71 acres of bushy wood," in 1655.

    C Clonavogy, CIua^t) at) bojA^, Nook of the Bog.

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 99

    As the companion tells it

    Close to Cloghoge and Tievadinna, in the reign of James the First, Thomas Petre built a house of lime and stone, slated, and four more houses of stone, for English or British tenants to live in, for the safety of themselves and their goods. The place was much infested with thieves and rebels. In 1655 there were still 71 acres of bushy wood here.

51. Ulster chiefs submit to Sir John Perrot at Newry

    near Newry · town · Down · 1584

    In September 1584, Sir John Perrot, Lord Deputy of Ireland, summoned the chiefs of Ulster to meet him at Newry without protection or pardon. The chiefs—including Sir Hugh Magennis, McMahon, O'Hanlon, and captains of Farney, Dartry, and other territories—submitted on their knees and swore fealty to Queen Elizabeth.

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    Sir John Perrot accordingly returned to Newry on the 28th of the same month, and remained there ten days, " to pfect up this service ;" On this occasion, he says, the chiefs of all Ulster attended him, " and upon their knees submitted themselves and sware fealty to her Majesty, protesting to serve her against all men." 15

    In 1585, Sir John undertook a second expedition into Ulster, occasioned by a false alarm of invasion from Scotland ; he set out from Dublin on the 15th of July, and returned on the 27th of August, 1585 ; Sir Lucas Dillon thus describes the effect of his journey,

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 38

    As the companion tells it

    Newry, in County Down. In September 1584, Sir John Perrot, Lord Deputy of Ireland, returned here and stayed ten days to finish his business. He summoned the chiefs of all Ulster to meet him without protection or pardon. Sir Hugh Magennis, McMahon, O'Hanlon, and the captains of Farney, Dartry, and other territories came. They went down on their knees and submitted themselves, and swore fealty to Queen Elizabeth,

52. John Talbot's house wasted by northern rebels

    Farney · barony · Monaghan · 1594

    John Talbot's house in Farney was wasted by the northern rebels, leaving his estate utterly decayed. His wife Bridget petitioned in February 1594 for a grant of land in reversion for fifty years as recompense for the charges of re-edifying his house.

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    Such was the distracted state of Farney in 1593 and 1594. Mr. Talbot had early in the latter year applied to the Government, and twenty-two footmen had been granted him,63 but the preceding extracts have shown how inadequate so small a force proved for the protection of the loyal inhabitants of that part of the country ; a Petition from Bridget, wife of John Talbot, dated in February 1594, requests " that in regard of her husbands charges in reedifying of his house, wasted by the northern rebells of Ireland, his estate utterly decayed &c. that he may have a grant of xlh a year in reversion of her hignesses land in Ireland for 50 yeares, and the first or second pension that shall fall voyd in Ireland."

    Burghley has written, " no more lands are to be granted in reversion but yet Mr. Talbot to be recompensed wth the lands or goods of the rebells yl have spoiled him." 6o

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 53

    As the companion tells it

    The barony of Farney was in a distracted state in 1593 and 1594. John Talbot had applied early in 1594 to the Government, and 22 footmen were granted to him, but so small a force proved inadequate for the protection of the loyal inhabitants of that part of the country. His house had been wasted by the northern rebels of Ireland, and his estate was utterly decayed. In February 1594 his wife Bridget petitioned for a grant of 40 pounds a year in reversion of her Majesty's land in Ireland for 50 years, and the first or second pension that should fall void in Ireland, in regard to her husband's charges in re-edifying his house. Burghley wrote that no more lands were to be granted in reversion, but that Mr. Talbot was to be recompensed with the lands or goods of the rebels that had spoiled him.

53. Killing of Glaisney Mac Mahon at Monaghan

    Monaghan · town · Monaghan · 1496

    In 1496, Glaisney, son of Redmond, son of Rory Mac Mahon, was killed in his own house at Monaghan by Gillapatrick Mac Mahon and his brother Rory, both sons of Mac Mahon (Hugh Oge). The murder took place within the town of Monaghan itself.

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    " 1496. Glaisney, son of Redmond, son of Rory Mac Mahon, was killed in his own house at Monaghan by Gillapatrick Mac Mahon, and Rory his brother, they were the sons of Mac Mahon, [i.e. of Hugh Oge, son of Hugh

    13 Unknown.

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 15

    As the companion tells it

    In 1496, in the town of Monaghan, Glaisney, son of Redmond, son of Rory Mac Mahon, was killed in his own house. The men who did it were Gillapatrick Mac Mahon and his brother Rory. They were the sons of Mac Mahon, that is, of Hugh Oge, son of Hugh.

54. Ever Mc Cooley's crannog residence at Lisanisk

    Lisanisk · townland · Monaghan · 1591–1843

    The 1591 map of Monaghan marked a crannog at Lisanisk as 'The Hand Ever Mc Cooleys house.' In 1843, Charles C. Gibson excavated the island and found a double row of piles enclosing an area of 60 by 42 feet, along with vast quantities of animal bones from chiefs' feasts.

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    one is to be found in every Barony distinguished as " The Hand," that in Farney was at Lisanisk, then called " Lysonske" and is marked in the map as " The Hand Ever Mc Cooleys house." The foundations of this antient residence were discovered in the autumn of 1843, by Charles C. Gibson, Esq. to whom I am obliged for making the necessary excavations, and for the following account of his success. " Seven feet below the present surface of the earth in the little island42 at Lisanisk, and two feet below the present water level of the lake, a double row of piles were found sunk in the mud ; they were formed of young trees from six to twelve inches in diameter, with the bark on ; the area inclosed by these piles, from which we may judge of the size of the house, was 60 feet in length by 42 in breadth." 43

    In October, 1591, the Deputy and Council inform the English Lords

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 46

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere around here, in what was once called Lysonske, stood a crannog known as The Hand. A map of 1591 marked it as "The Hand Ever Mc Cooleys house." Each barony had one distinguished as The Hand, and this was the one in Farney. The foundations of this old residence were found in the autumn of 1843 by Charles C. Gibson, who made the necessary excavations. Seven feet below the present surface of the earth in the little island, and two feet below the present water level of the lake, a double row of piles were found sunk in the mud. They were formed of young trees from six to twelve inches in diameter, with the bark on. The area enclosed by these piles, from which the size of the house may be judged, was 60 feet in length by 42 in breadth.

55. Execution of Hugh Roe McMahon at Monaghan

    Monaghan · town · Monaghan · 1590

    Hugh Roe McMahon was executed at Monaghan by course of Queen Elizabeth's law on 6 October 1590, to the great contentment of the country, as reported by Lord Deputy Fitzwilliam from Kilmainham.

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    At last, on the 24th of the following September, he appears to have received some instructions, for he adds in a letter to Burghley, — " and this that I have nowe in hand to be don w* the Mc Mahons in Monohan, withr wardes I take my jorney tomorrow, will be a great furtherance to it, if it succeede well, as I am nowe in good hope it will." The Event is thus briefly alluded to in a Dispatch of the 12th of October, 1590, " at my return hither [Kilmainham] from Monaghan the 6 of this present, whither as by my last I wrote unto yor Lo: I was to repaire for the cawse of Mc Mahon, who was there by course of her Mat9 lawes executed, to the great content"" of that Countrey." 38

    It appears from a dispatch from the Lord Deputy and Council to the English Government, dated from Dublin the 5th of December 1590, that the chief gentlemen of the County of Monaghan, after the death of Hugh Roe Mc Mahon, were, " Ever Mc Cowley Mac-Mahon, now holding Ferney in the Barony of Donnemayne, Clancarvell being also part of that Barony possessed by Collo Mc Bryans sons, both lands of the Earl of Essex ; Rosse bane Mc Mahon, Sheriff of that County, being possessed of the Onaghe in the Barony of Cremourne, Patrick duff Mc Mahon being also possessed of some part of that Barony ; Bryan Mc Hugh Oge Mc Mahon hath in his possession the Barony of the Dartrey, Mc Kenna a Chief Gent : and freeholder in the Barony of Troughe, Patrick Mc Arte Moyle, and many others having lands in the Barony of Monaghan."

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 45

    As the companion tells it

    The town of Monaghan was the scene of a settled reckoning in the autumn of 1590. Lord Deputy Fitzwilliam had written to Burghley in September that what he had in hand to do with the McMahons in Monaghan would be a great furtherance, and that he took his journey tomorrow, in good hope it would succeed well. The event came on the 6th of October. Fitzwilliam reported it in a dispatch from Kilmainham on the 12th of that month. He had returned from Monaghan on the 6th, where Hugh Roe McMahon was, as he put it, by course of her Majesty's laws executed, to the great contentment of that country. After Hugh Roe McMahon's death, the chief gentlemen of the County of Monaghan were laid out in a further dispatch from Dublin, dated the 5th of December 1590. Ever McCowley MacMahon held Farney in the Barony of Donnemayne. Clancarvell, part of that same barony, was possessed by Collo McBryan's sons. Both lands belonged to the Earl of Essex. Rossebane MacMahon was sheriff of the county, possessed of the Onaghe in the Barony of Cremourne. Patrick Duff MacMahon held part of that barony too. Bryan McHugh Oge MacMahon had the Barony of Dartrey. McKenna was a chief gentleman and freeholder in the Barony of Troughe. Patrick McArte Moyle and many others held lands in the Barony of Monaghan.

56. Lord Essex's agent imprisoned at Castle of Carrick then moved to Burke's house

    Carrickmacross · town · Monaghan · 1641–1642

    The narrator, Lord Essex's agent in Farney, was seized and held prisoner at the Castle of Carrick from the outbreak of the 1641 rebellion. He was later moved at his own request to the house of Redmond Burke, an old servant of Lord Essex, where he stayed from 25 October until 3 March before escaping towards Dublin.

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    who was hanged in the garden of the Castle there, by warrant from Sir Phelim Roe O'Neale, procured at the instance of Art Mc Brian Lannagh Mc Mahon, a wicked villain, who since died mad as I am credibly informed. " When we were all put out of the Castle of Carrick I was removed at my own request to the house of Redmond Burke, an old servant of my Lord of Essex, where I continued from the 25lh of October till Thursday the 3rd of this instant March, at which time I came from thence towards Dublin, and I must needs confess that during the time of my imprisonment, I was well intreated by Coll Mc Bryan, who sufferred me to want neither meat nor other necessaries, besides Redmund Burke and his wife were very beneficial to me upon all occasions, yet from all the favor which I had from Coll Mc Bryan and other gentlemen of the country, I could not banish fear from my heart, still thinking upon that maxim of theirs that faith is not to be kept with hereticks, for so they account Protestants, and that I was an Englishman which was a main fault with me ; much labour I had to get a pass from Coll Mc Bryan, who was ernest with me to stay still in the country assuring me often both by words and message, that if I had a will to stay among them, he would make my means better than what was given me by my Lord of Essex ; doubtless if I had not got away so opportunely as I did, he would have paid me still in Farney, when he was beaten back from Tredagh, and after perhaps instead of means to live upon, I might have got a halter, for I do much fear that all the poor English which were left alive in that Country were served with the same sauce.

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 63

    As the companion tells it

    The town of Carrickmacross holds a story from the first months of the 1641 rebellion. The narrator was Lord Essex's agent in Farney, and when the rising broke out he was seized and held prisoner at the Castle of Carrick. In time the prisoners were all put out of the castle, and at his own request he was removed to the house of Redmond Burke, an old servant of Lord Essex. There he stayed from the 25th of October until Thursday the 3rd of March, when he left towards Dublin. He confessed that during his imprisonment he was well treated by Coll Mc Bryan, who suffered him to want neither meat nor other necessaries, and Redmond Burke and his wife were very beneficial to him on all occasions. Yet for all the favour shown him by Coll Mc Bryan and other gentlemen of the country, he could not banish fear from his heart. He kept thinking on what he called their maxim, that faith is not to be kept with heretics, for so they accounted Protestants, and that he was an Englishman, which was a main fault with him. He had much labour getting a pass from Coll Mc Bryan, who was earnest with him to stay in the country, assuring him both by words and message that if he had a will to stay among them, he would make his means better than what Lord Essex had given him. He believed that had he not got away as he did, Coll Mc Bryan would have paid him still in Farney when he was beaten back from Tredagh, and perhaps instead of means to live upon, he might have got a halter. He feared that all the poor English left alive in that country were served with the same sauce.

57. O'Melaghlin's predatory raid into Fer-Ross

    Farney · barony · Monaghan · 1109

    In 1109, Morogh O'Melaghlin, King of Tara, raided the Fer-Ross district and killed O'Finn, Lord of Fer-Ross, violating the guarantee of the Staff of Jesus and the Coarb of St. Patrick. Tiernan O'Rourke later avenged the deed by attacking O'Melaghlin's encampment.

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    1109. Morogh OMelaghlin, King of Tara, made a predatory excursion into the Fer-Ross, which he preyed, and killed O'Finn, Lord of Fer-Ross, in violation of the guarantee of the Staff of Jesus,52 and of the Coarb of Saint Patrick ; but God avenged that deed, for Tiernan O'Rourke made two successive and sudden assaults on O'Melaghlin's encampment, and slaughtered great numbers of his people.

    1113. Mortogh O'Brien, King of Leth-Jllogha,53 led an army both of laity and clergy to Grenog.5i Donell, the son of Mac Loghlin, at the head of the nobles of the North of Ireland marched against him, and took up his position at Cluain-Cain35 Fer-Ross; in this manner they remained for a whole month opposite to each other, until Ceallagh, the Coarb of Saint Patrick 56 with the Staff of Jesus, made a year's peace between them."

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 6

    As the companion tells it

    As the road passes through the barony of Farney, this is the country once called Fer-Ross. In 1109, Morogh O'Melaghlin, King of Tara, made a predatory excursion into Fer-Ross. He preyed it and killed O'Finn, Lord of Fer-Ross, in violation of the guarantee of the Staff of Jesus and of the Coarb of Saint Patrick. God avenged that deed. Tiernan O'Rourke made two successive and sudden assaults on O'Melaghlin's encampment and slaughtered great numbers of his people. In 1113, Mortogh O'Brien, King of Leth-Jllogha, led an army to Grenog. Donell, son of Mac Loghlin, marched against him with the nobles of the North of Ireland and took up his position at Cluain-Cain in Fer-Ross. They remained opposite each other for a whole month until Ceallagh, Coarb of Saint Patrick, with the Staff of Jesus, made a year's peace.

58. Franciscan monastery founded at Monaghan, 1462

    Monaghan · town · Monaghan · 1462

    Phelim Mac Mahon, called Felim-an-fhiona (of the wine), founded a monastery for Conventual Franciscans at Monaghan in 1462, on the site of an ancient abbey. He was Lord of Oriell and Chief of his name.

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    It was this Phelim, called in Irish, Felim-an-fhiona, [of the wine,] son of Bryan, son of Ardgal, who founded on the site of an antient abbey at Monaghan, a monastery for Conventual Franciscans,10 in the year 1462. He was succeeded as Lord of Oriell, and Chief of his name, by his cousin Owen, son of Rory Mac Mahon, ancestor of the Mac Mahons of Dartrey, who survived but nine months. His brother Redmond was the next Mac Mahon, who succeeded, according to the four Masters, in 1467. In 1471, according to the same authority, " The Earl of Kildare, and the English of Meath, went into Farney, and took a great prey from Mac Mahon, who then mustered the forces of his country, and committed great devastations, both by preying, and burning, on the English in return."

    Four years later an internal feud took place between the Mac-Mahon,

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 14

    As the companion tells it

    In the town of Monaghan, a Franciscan monastery was founded in 1462. The founder was Phelim Mac Mahon, called in Irish Felim-an-fhiona, of the wine. He was son of Bryan, son of Ardgal. He built it on the site of an ancient abbey, for Conventual Franciscans. Phelim was Lord of Oriell and Chief of his name. He was succeeded by his cousin Owen, son of Rory Mac Mahon, ancestor of the Mac Mahons of Dartrey, who survived but nine months. His brother Redmond was the next Mac Mahon, succeeding in 1467 according to the Four Masters. In 1471, the Earl of Kildare and the English of Meath went into Farney and took a great prey from Mac Mahon, who mustered the forces of his country and committed great devastations on the English in return, both by preying and burning.

59. Hugh Oge Mac Mahon killed in Farney inroad

    Farney · barony · Monaghan · 1577

    In 1577, Hugh Oge Mac Mahon, grandson of John-Boy Mac Mahon, made an inroad on Mac Mahon's people in the territory of Farney but was overtaken and killed by Mac Mahon (Art, son of Brian). The Four Masters lamented him as perhaps the greatest loss among the descendants of Colla in his time.

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    " 1577. Hugh Oge, [Grand] son of John-Boy Mac Mahon, made an inroad on Mac Mahons people, but was overtaken by Mac Mahon himself, [Art, son of Brian of the early rising, son of Redmond, son of Glasney,] and Hugh was there killed by Mac Mahon and his people, and there was not perhaps of the descendants of Colla, in his time, one who was so great a loss, for his amiability, & his name and renown were far above the name of him who killed him."

    It was to this chief that the Lord Deputy, Sr Henry Sidney alludes in his letter to the Lords of the Council, dated from Dublin, the 17th of March, 1576-7.

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 34

    As the companion tells it

    As the road takes you through the barony of Farney, this is where Hugh Oge Mac Mahon met his end in 1577. He was the grandson of John-Boy Mac Mahon. He made an inroad on Mac Mahon's people, but was overtaken by Mac Mahon himself, Art, son of Brian of the early rising, son of Redmond, son of Glasney. Hugh was killed there by Mac Mahon and his people. The Four Masters wrote that there was perhaps no one among the descendants of Colla, in his time, who was so great a loss, for his amiability, and his name and renown were far above the name of him who killed him.

60. Louth viewed and found unfit for garrison

    Louth · town · Louth

    The Lord Lieutenant viewed Louth and found it utterly unfit for a garrison, as there was no fuel to be gotten near it and no strength could be made there in short time. The place was consequently rejected in favor of nearby Newrath.

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    all, that owre army being farr lesse in strength, was not to attempt trenches, and to fight uppon such infinit disadvauntage : but a strong garrison might be placed at Louthe, or some castel thereabouts, to offend the bordering rebells, and defend the whole coumpty of Lowthe : and that since we were there, we should one day draw owte and offer battayle, with oure 2500 foote to theare 5000, and with oure 300 horsse to theire 700. According to which resolution the L. Lieutenant first viewed Lowthe, and found it utterly unfitt, theare being no fewell to be gotten neere it, nor any strength to be made in short tyme ; and the same day, being the 5th of September, he had a gentleman sent unto him from Tirone, one Henry Hagan, his constable of Dungannon and a man highly favored and trusted of him. This Hagan delivered his masters desire to parly with the L. Livetenant, which his Lop refused ; but told Hagan he would be the next morning on the hill, betwixt both theire campes, and if he would then call to speake with him, he would be found in the head of his troupes. With this answer Hagan returned, and the next morning, being the 6th of September, the L. Lieutenant drew owte 2000 foote and 300 horsse, leaving a colonel with 500 foote and 20 horsse, to garde owre quarter and baggage. The L. Livetenant first imbattled his men uppon the first great hill he came to, in sight of Tirone ; and then marched forward to an other hill, on which Tirones gard of horsse stoode, which they quitted, and theare owne army made good the place till it was neere 3 of the clocke in the afternoone. During which tyme Tirones foote neuer showed themselves out of the wood, and his horsemen were putt from all the hills which they came uppon betwixt us and the woode : by which occasion some skirmish was amongst the light horsse, in which a French gentleman of the Earl of Southampton's70 were all that were hurt of owre side. After this skirmish, a horseman of Tirones called to owres, and delivered this message ; — that Tirone would not fight, nor drawe forthe, but desired to speake with the L. Livetenant, but not betwixt the 2 armies. Whereuppon the L. Livetenant, towards 3 of the clocke in the afternoone, drew back agayne into his quarter, and after his returne thither, placed a garrison of 500 foote, and 50 horsse, at Niselerathie (Newrath), half a mile from the hill of Lowthe, where theare is a square castel and a great bawne with a good dytche rounde abowte it and many thatch'd houses to lodge

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 53