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. Ludlow fortifies Carrickmacross after Blayney murder

   Carrickmacross · town · Monaghan · 1652

   During the 1652 campaign, Ludlow came to Carrickmacross, a house belonging to the Earl of Essex, where rebels had barbarously murdered Mr. Blayney, a Justice of the Peace. Ludlow fortified the house and placed a garrison there to restrain enemy excursions.

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   " I continued my march (he says,) into the County of Meath (Monaghan) and coming to Carrickmacross, a House belonging to the Earl of Essex, where the Rebels had barbarously murdered one Mr. Blayney1 a Justice of Peace in that County, I caused it to be fortified, and put a garrison in it, being advantageously situated to restrain the enemies excursions. From hence I went to visit the garrison at Dundalk, and being upon my return, I found a party of the enemy retired within a hollow rock, which was discovered by one of ours, who saw five or six of them standing before a narrow passage at the mouth of the cave. The rock was so thick that we thought it impossible to dig it down upon them, and therefore resolved to reduce them by smoke ; after some of our men had spent most part of the day in endeavouring to smother those within by fire placed at the mouth of the cave, they withdrew the fire, and the next morning, supposing the Irish to be made uncapable of resistance by the smoke, some of them with a candle before them crawled into the rock ; one of the enemy who lay in the middle

   1 Mr. Richard Blayney was hanged in the garden of the Castle of Monaghan, see page 128.

   Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 70

   As the companion tells it

   Carrickmacross is a town the road passes through in County Monaghan. In 1652, Ludlow came here on the march. He found a house belonging to the Earl of Essex. Rebels had barbarously murdered one Mr. Blayney, a Justice of the Peace in that county. Ludlow caused the house to be fortified and put a garrison in it, since it was advantageously situated to restrain the enemy's excursions. From here he went to visit the garrison at Dundalk. On his return, one of his men saw five or six of the enemy standing before a narrow passage at the mouth of a cave, a hollow rock where a party of the enemy had retired. The rock was so thick they thought it impossible to dig it down upon them, and so resolved to reduce them by smoke. Some of the men spent most part of the day endeavouring to smother those within by fire placed at the mouth of the cave. They withdrew the fire, and the next morning, supposing the Irish to be made incapable of resistance by the smoke, some of them with a candle before them crawled into the rock.

2. Moyses Hill builds Castle Chichester on Island Magee

   near Island Magee · parish · Antrim · 1603–1625

   Moyses Hill, a lieutenant and Provost Marshall, built a castle called Castle Chichester on the neck of Island Magee near Carrickfergus. The island was well inhabited by English, Scottish, and English-speaking Irish residents, many adopting English attire.

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   " About two myles from thence (Knockfergus), by the Sea syde upon the necke of the Hand Magye there hath byne latlie buylte by Moyses Hill somtyme lyutent of the horse troope of Sr Arthur Chichester, and nowe Provost Marshall of the Government and tenant of the said Sr Arthur Chichester, a pritie Castle nowe called Castle Chichester. That Hand is well inhabited by English and Scotishmen and by other civill Irishmen, such as for the most pte can speake Englishe, and many of them doe goe in Englishe habbitt."19

   The "ffayre" Castles of Monaghan and Castle Blayney20 are the only fortified places mentioned in the County of Monaghan, during the govern-

   Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 61

   As the companion tells it

   Island Magee lies along this stretch of coast near Carrickfergus. On the neck of the island, by the seaside, Moyses Hill built a castle he called Castle Chichester. Hill had served as lieutenant of the horse troop under Sir Arthur Chichester, and now held the office of Provost Marshall of the Government, as Sir Arthur's tenant. The island itself was well inhabited by English and Scottish settlers, and by Irish residents the source calls civil, most of whom could speak English. Many of them had taken to English dress. The castle stood on the neck of land joining the island to the mainland, described as a pretty castle, built not long before the account was written.

3. Shirley family manorial mansion at Lough Fea

   Doohatty · townland · Monaghan · 1825

   The manorial mansion of the Shirley family was built at Doohatty, commenced by Evelyn John Shirley in 1825. The grounds, called Lough Fea after the adjoining lake, contain a natural limestone seat known as Fin-Mac-Coul's Chair, traditionally a place of sanctuary.

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   Doohatty, Dub-cAice, Black Tate. Called Doate and Kinalege in 1655, and Kilneleg, Duehatty, and Farts in 1734, at the latter period there were considerable remains of wood. In this Townland is the Manorial Mansion of the Shirley family, originally commenced by Evelyn John Shirley, Esq. in the year 1825. In the grounds of this place, called Lough Fea, ICoc Pea6A, Lake of the Bull-rushes, from the lake of that name adjoining, is a natural seat in the limestone rock, called Fin-Ma c-Coul's Chair, and which is traditionally said to have been a place of sanctuary.

   200 SOME ACCOUNT OF THE TERRITORY

   Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 108

   As the companion tells it

   Somewhere near here is the manorial mansion of the Shirley family, begun by Evelyn John Shirley in 1825. The grounds are called Lough Fea, after the lake of that name adjoining, meaning the Lake of the Bull-rushes. In those grounds there is a natural seat in the limestone rock called Fin-Mac-Coul's Chair, traditionally said to have been a place of sanctuary. This place was called Doate and Kinalege in 1655, and by 1734 there were considerable remains of wood here.

4. Earl of Essex leases Farney castles to Ever McMahon

   Farney · barony · Monaghan · 1606

   In 1606, the young Earl of Essex granted a six-year lease of all his castles, forts, boroughs and rights of patronage within Farney, Clankarvile, and Downemayne to Ever McMahon Esquire, at an annual rent of £250 payable in Dublin.

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   Immediately on the accession of James I. in 1603, the attainder against the heirs of the Earl of Essex was reversed by Act of Parliament, and his only son Robert, and his two daughters, the ladies Frances and Dorothy, restored in blood, honours, and estates. The young Earl was at this time in his twelfth year, and in ward to Thomas, Earl of Suffolk, and Richard, Earl of Clanricard ; his first act in concert with these noblemen, with reference to his Irish estates, was a lease which he granted on the 30th of April, 4th James I. (1606) to " Ever Mc Mahon Esquire, of all those his Castells, ffortes, boroughs, hundreds &c. including rights of Patronage of Churches, &c. within the feilds of fferney, als Hifferne, Clankarvile, and Downemayne wthin the Province or Earledome of Ulster, in the realme of Ireland, for the term of six years, Profits of Courts & Liberty of Free- Warren, reserved, at the yearly rent of £250, payable at, or in, the now dwelling howse of one Thomas Bishopp Marchaunt, scituat and being within the Cyttie of Dublyn, in the said Realme of Ireland. Provision that the said Ever Mc Mahon and his heirs shall at his or their owne costs and chardge, beare answere and paie to such person or persons as the said Earl shall appoint, so much money as shall answere and paie the exchange and transportacon of the foresaid yerely rent, half yerely, from the Citty of Dublyn to the City of London." T

   6 S. P. O.

   Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 56

   As the companion tells it

   As you travel through Farney, this is a land that once changed hands on a lease. In 1603, when James the First came to the throne, the attainder against the heirs of the Earl of Essex was reversed by Act of Parliament. His only son Robert, and his two daughters, the ladies Frances and Dorothy, were restored in blood, honours, and estates. The young Earl was then in his twelfth year, and in ward to Thomas, Earl of Suffolk, and Richard, Earl of Clanricard. His first act concerning his Irish estates, done in concert with those noblemen, was a lease granted on the 30th of April, 1606, to Ever McMahon Esquire. The lease covered all his castles, forts, boroughs, hundreds, and rights of patronage of churches within Farney, also called Hifferne, Clankarvile, and Downemayne, in the Province or Earldom of Ulster. The term was six years, with profits of courts and liberty of free-warren reserved. The yearly rent was 250 pounds, payable at the dwelling house of one Thomas Bishopp, merchant, within the city of Dublin. A provision held that Ever McMahon and his heirs should, at their own costs, pay for the exchange and transport of the rent, half-yearly, from the city of Dublin to the city of London.

5. Earl of Essex seeks to retain Island Magee as foothold

   near Island Magee · parish · Antrim · 1575

   In his proposals to the Queen, the Earl of Essex offered to resign his portions of Clandeboy, the Route, and the Glens, but wished to keep the little island of McGuy as a foothold against the Irish of those parts, lest they think him a banished man.

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   all his portion of Clandeboy the Rowte and the Glyns, saving the lytell ilande of Mcguy wch he wolde kepe as a footyng against the Irish of those partes, lest they might thynk hym a banished man out of ye Countrey." 29 30

   These propositions appear to have been graciously received by her Majesty; she very promptly agreed to grant his Lordship's desire touching the Farney, and consented to stop all proceedings with regard to the mortgage, but with her characteristic caution referred the remainder of his demands to the judgment of the new Lord Deputy Sir Henry Sidney, who was then on the point of succeeding Sir William Fitz- William. Her Majesty's pleasure was conveyed in the following terms.

   Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 28

   As the companion tells it

   Near here lies the parish of Island Magee. In 1575 the Earl of Essex put proposals to Queen Elizabeth. He offered to resign his portion of Clandeboy, the Route, and the Glens, but wished to keep the little island of McGuy as a footing against the Irish of those parts, lest they might think him a banished man out of the country. The Queen received his propositions graciously. She promptly agreed to grant his desire touching Farney and consented to stop proceedings with regard to the mortgage. But with her characteristic caution she referred the remainder of his demands to the new Lord Deputy Sir Henry Sidney, then on the point of succeeding Sir William Fitz-William.

6. Coolderry land grants after 1688 Revolution

   Coolderry · townland · Monaghan · 1688–1702

   After the attainder of Christopher, Baron of Slane, during the Revolution of 1688, Coolderry reverted to the Crown and was granted to Godart, Earl of Athlone in 1693. Athlone conveyed the lands to Norman Garstin of Braganstowne, County Louth, in 1698 for £106, confirmed by the Crown in 1702.

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   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

   204 SOME ACCOUNT OF THE TERRITORY

   Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 110

   As the companion tells it

   Somewhere around here, Coolderry was held by Christopher Fleming, Baron of Slane. An inquisition in the 10th year of Charles I records he died 9th June 1625, seized of these lands. The property remained with his descendants until the Revolution of 1688, when Christopher, Baron of Slane, was attainted and the lands reverted to the Crown. On 15th April 1693 they were granted to Godart, Earl of Athlone, who conveyed them to Norman Garstin of Braganstowne, County Louth, in 1698 for £106, confirmed by the Crown in 1702.

7. Essex cuts passes toward Farney and destroys corn and dwellings

   Farney · barony · Monaghan · 1574

   In March 1574, the Earl of Essex led a military campaign cutting passes through the bogs to open routes toward Farney, Tyrone, and McMahon's Country. He reported wasting and spoiling the inhabitants' corn and habitations after they fled with their cattle.

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   assystaunce of laborers to the number of COO, whereof but fewe owte of the Englishe pale, I encamped there, and have opened all the paces in the fewes eyther leadinge into Tyrone, or towards ferney, the Breny, or Mc Mahon's Countrey, and have cutt them so brode as tenne horsemen may Ryde a fronte in the narrowest waye."

   " The inhabitants fled their cattell to Henry Mc Shanes sonnes, leavinge their corne behynde them, wch I have all wasted & spoyled, together w,h suche habitat5ns as they had in that place." 24

   Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 27

   As the companion tells it

   In March 1574, the Earl of Essex brought labourers to this country and cut passes through the bogs, opening routes toward Farney, Tyrone, and McMahon's Country. He had them cut so broad that ten horsemen could ride abreast in the narrowest way. The inhabitants fled with their cattle to Henry Mc Shane's sons, leaving their corn behind. Essex reported he had all wasted and spoiled, together with such habitations as they had in that place.

8. Essex writes from Drogheda accepting Farney lands

   Drogheda · town · Louth · 1575

   From Drogheda on 28 September 1575, the Earl of Essex wrote to Walsingham and Burghley confirming his acceptance of Queen Elizabeth's offer of land and office in Ireland, including the territory of Farney, while expressing that Ireland was 'but a kynde of exyll' compared to home.

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   " I have determyned that accordyng to suche resolutyons as her MatJ hathe taken, and her Deputye nowe consented unto, I wyll accepte her Matys offeres of the Lande & offyce here wth ye leadinge of the 300 men in suche sorte as the L. Deputye hath now wrytten, to wcl1 soldyers I wyll appoynt such suffycient Leaders as shall be as able as anye other of the arraye, and those thinges performed, I am agayne at the devotyon of my frendes."

   He concludes his letter to Burghley in these words, — " bycause settled determination to lyve altogether pryvat dothe assure me of a quyet and contentyd Lyeffe in whever stat I shall beinde myself to lyue, ether in Englande or Irelande. Neuerthelesse thys place (is) but a kynde of exyll in Respecte of the Contentacon wch I hope hereafter to fynde at home." 37

   Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 29

   As the companion tells it

   In September 1575 the Earl of Essex was in Drogheda, writing to Walsingham and Burghley in England. Queen Elizabeth had offered him land and office in Ireland, including the territory of Farney, and he was accepting. He would lead 300 men and appoint sufficient leaders for them, as able as any other of the army. Once those things were performed, he wrote, he was again at the devotion of his friends. He told Burghley that a settled determination to live altogether private assured him of a quiet and contented life wherever he should find himself, in England or Ireland. Nevertheless, he wrote, "this place is but a kynde of exyll in respecte of the contentacon wch I hope hereafter to fynde at home." He took the lands and the command, and called it exile.

9. Lord Deputy raids Farney and forces submissions, 1601

   Farney · barony · Monaghan · 1601

   The Lord Deputy reported from Tredagh (Drogheda) that royal forces had penetrated the countries of the Fues and Ferney, scourging the chieftains until they humbled themselves and came in to submit. The campaign targeted the McMahon territory of Farney during the Nine Years' War.

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   — " I have of late pierced into the Contreyes of the Fues and Ferney, where God hath so prospered the service, as the Chieftaines of both those contrys, after they were skourged by her Ma*'es forces have humbled themselves to her Mat,es Mercy, and are come in."2

   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.

   Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 55

   As the companion tells it

   The barony of Farney in Monaghan was McMahon country. In 1601, during the Nine Years' War, the Lord Deputy wrote from Tredagh, Drogheda, that he had "pierced into the Contreyes of the Fues and Ferney." He reported that God had prospered the service, and that the chieftains of both those countries, after they were scourged by her Majesty's forces, humbled themselves to her Majesty's mercy and came in to submit.

10. Battle at Airgett-Glionn between O'Carroll and O'Melaghlin's men

    Donaghmoyne · townland · Monaghan · 1101

    In 1101, Donogh O'Melaghlin raided Farney and Conaille, carrying off cattle. Cu-Cashel O'Carroll, Lord of Farney, met them at Airgett-Glionn—possibly Money-glen in the parish of Donaghmoyne—and killed two hundred of their party including several lords.

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    1101. Donogh O'Melaghlin, Lord of Meath, made a predatory incursion into Farney and Conaille, and carried away a great prey of cows. They were met, however, by Cu-Cashel O'Carroll, Lord of Farney and Oriell, at Airgett- Glionn,'24' where he killed as many of them as he met, excepting a few. There were killed of them Eichtigeon O'Brian, Lord of Breaghmaine, [Brawney]23 and the son of Cairrthen O'Maelruain, and O'Hinrechtan, Chief of O'Melaghlins household, and two hundred besides.

    20 Kill-Sleibhe, now Killery in the County of Armagh.

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 4

    As the companion tells it

    Close to Donaghmoyne, somewhere around here, is Airgett-Glionn, where a battle was fought in 1101. Donogh O'Melaghlin, Lord of Meath, raided Farney and Conaille and carried off a great prey of cows. Cu-Cashel O'Carroll, Lord of Farney and Oriel, met them at Airgett-Glionn and killed as many of them as he met, excepting a few. Among the dead were Eichtigeon O'Brian, Lord of Breaghmaine, the son of Cairrthen O'Maelruain, O'Hinrechtan, chief of O'Melaghlin's household, and two hundred besides.

11. Battle of Achaidh-Leith derg in Farney

    Farney · barony · Monaghan · 331–332

    Around 331 AD, the Three Collas defeated the Ultonians at the Battle of Achaidh-Leith derg in Farney, conquering part of the ancient kingdom of Ulidia. Fergus Fogha, son of Fraechar, the last Ultonian king to occupy Emania, was slain in the battle.

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    " Anno Domini 33 1,3 The Battle of Achaidh-Leith derg," (literally the half red field; the place is now unknown,) " in Fearn mhaigh (Farney), was gained by the Three Collas over the Ultonians, in which was slain Fergus Fogha, son of Fraechar, the last king of the Ultonians that occupied Emania."'4

    2 The Three Collas, the grandsons of King Cairbre Liffeachair.

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 2

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Farney, you travel ground where the Three Collas defeated the Ultonians in 331. The battle was called Achaidh-Leith derg, the half red field. Fergus Fogha, son of Fraechar, was slain there, the last king of the Ultonians that occupied Emania.

12. Bishop Montgomery defends Termon-lands

    Monaghan · town · Monaghan · 1607

    George Montgomery, Bishop of Derry, Raphoe, and Clogher, wrote to Lord Salisbury in 1607 complaining that gentlemen had obtained patents for Church Termon-lands in Monaghan and Fermanagh but failed to build the required castles of defence, voiding their patents. He warned that losing these lands would ruin the bishopric and impoverish parochial churches.

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    " In the Counties of Monaghan and ffermanagh wlhin the Dioces of Clogher, the whole possessions of that Bishoprick have eur ben knowne by the name of Termon-land ; of wch Termons the Bishops of that See, as true Land-lords have alwaies had the sole possession, placing, and displacing tenants, receiving their rents, their hospitise, wth all fees, and services accruing due unto them out of ye same, sometimes augmenting, sometymes dyminishing their rents at their pleasure, as by a Register of 200 yeares wch I have shewed doth appeare.8 Yet diurs gentlemen supposing those landes escheated to the Crowne by the Act of Dissolution, sought and obteyned patents of most of them from her late Matie about the 34th yeare of her Raigne, at wch tyme, there being no Lawfull Bishops in these places, but such as [being the Popes lewd instruments,] lurked in the countrie, and durst make no open challenge to the right of the Church, their patents passed wthout challenge or exception ; In wch grauntes this cautionarie proviso was inserted, that if the Patentees should not wthin 5 yeares build castles of defence on those landes, their patents should be utterlie voide, as now they are by non pformance of that condition, whereupon the late Patentees are againe become earnest suitors to his Matie for a confirmation of their forfeyted estates, and the booke of the division of Monaghan, wherein these Termons are also to passe is sent our unto yor 11: in the end whereof my challenge unto these Termons is set downe : 9 wch Termons if they be suffered to passe away from the Church, the utter undoing of that Bishoprick, and the impouishing of all parochiall Churches in those places might of necessitie enseu, for to my

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 84

    As the companion tells it

    In the town of Monaghan, in 1607, George Montgomery, Bishop of Derry, Raphoe, and Clogher, wrote to Lord Salisbury defending Church lands. The possessions of the Bishoprick of Clogher, in that county and Fermanagh, had always been known as Termon-land. The Bishops of that See were, as he put it, "true Land-lords," with sole possession, placing and displacing tenants, receiving rents, hospitality, fees, and services. A register of 200 years, which he had shown, proved this. Yet gentlemen, supposing those lands had reverted to the Crown by the Act of Dissolution, obtained patents for most of them from the late Queen, about the 34th year of her reign. At that time there were no lawful bishops, only those he called the Pope's instruments, lurking in the country, who dared not openly challenge the Church. So the patents passed without challenge. In those grants a proviso was inserted: if the patentees did not build castles of defence on those lands within 5 years, their patents would be utterly void. They did not build, and so the patents are now void by non-performance of that condition. The patentees had become suitors again to the King for confirmation of their forfeited estates. The book of the division, in which these Termons were also to pass, had been sent to Lord Salisbury. Montgomery's challenge to these Termons was set down at the end of it. If the Termons were suffered to pass away from the Church, he warned, the utter undoing of that Bishoprick and the impoverishing of all parochial churches in those places might of necessity ensue.

13. Commissioners abandon Farney boundary survey from Maher Rosse

    Farney · barony · Monaghan · 1592

    In December 1592, commissioners appointed to define the limits of Farney wrote from the town of Maher Rosse in Farney, reporting that they had desisted from the service due to local resistance and promises made to some inhabitants to exempt land from the bounds of Farney. The rebellious state of the country prevented them from reassembling.

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    56 Connected with this Commission there is a fragment among some unarranged papers in the S. P. O. ; it appears to be part of the draft of a letter from the Commissioners to Essex, viz. " — by faiar & large promises made to som of them of parte of the said lande, if the same shold by them be exempted oute of the bounds of fferney as by secret intelligence geven unto us thereof apeared. Theise inconveniences apearinge unto us, and the matter of great importaunce to yr Lo : even to the losse of m m acres of land at the least as we understand we have thought good, fitt, & necessarie to desist from the saied service for the present, intendinge hereafter at some more apt tyme after Mr. Talbotts retorne whome nowe you intende to make yor farmer, to hold a more safe course for yor honors advantadge and havinge dissolved the said service for the occasions aforesaid whereof we beseache yr Lo: to advise wth yr learned Counsell there of whose & yr Lo : resoluton therein, we desier to be advertized before we shall agayne enter into the saied service. We humbly take our leaves, ffrom yr towne of Maher Rosse in ffarney. this viii h of Decembr. 1592. John Ellyot. Thomas Henshawe. Rice ap Hughe. Will™1. Pratt." By the above it appears that the Commissioners [viz. John Ellyot, one of the Barons of the Exchequer, Thomas Henshawe, Seneschal of Monaghan, Rice ap Hughe, Provost Marshall, and William Pratt, agent to the Earl of Essex,] broke up without defining the limits of the Territory of Farney ; the rebellious state of the country probably prevented them from reassembling, which explains why there is no record of their proceedings among the rolls of the Irish Chancery. From the same reason also the Map and Survey of Farney undertaken at this time by Francis Jobson was probably left unexecuted, it is alluded to in the following note to Sir W. Fitzvvilliam by the Geographer himself — "I have had vis. viiid. sir for every daie I travayled besydes Horsse mett and mans meat of ther chardges, and also hav promised the Right Honourable the Earle of Essex to survey and plat the ffarney and Clancarvall for the wch his Lorp. hath and will reward me well."— March 10, 1592. (3?)

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 51

    As the companion tells it

    The barony of Farney was the subject of a boundary survey that never got finished. In December 1592, commissioners appointed to define its limits wrote from the town of Maher Rosse, in Farney, to say they had given up. The letter was addressed to Essex, and the names at the foot of it were John Ellyot, one of the Barons of the Exchequer, Thomas Henshawe, Seneschal of Monaghan, Rice ap Hughe, Provost Marshall, and William Pratt, agent to the Earl of Essex. They explained that fair and large promises had been made to some of the inhabitants, to exempt part of the land from the bounds of Farney, and that this had become known to them by secret intelligence. They judged the matter of great importance, involving the loss of at least a thousand acres of land. For these reasons they thought it fit and necessary to desist from the service for the present, intending to take a safer course later, after Mr. Talbot's return, whom Essex intended to make his farmer. They asked Essex to advise with his learned counsel and to advertise them of his resolution before they entered again into the service. They dated their letter the 8th of December 1592, from the town of Maher Rosse in Farney. The commissioners broke up without defining the limits of the territory. The rebellious state of the country probably prevented them from reassembling, which is why no record of their proceedings appears among the rolls of the Irish Chancery. For the same reason, a map and survey of Farney undertaken by Francis Jobson was probably left unexecuted. Jobson himself wrote to Sir William Fitzwilliam on the 10th of March 1592, saying he had promised Essex to survey and plat Farney and Clancarvall.

14. Danes carry away Shrine of Adamnan from Donaghmoyne

    Donaghmoyne · townland · Monaghan · 830

    The Four Masters record that the shrine of Saint Adamnan was preserved at the Church of Donaghmoyne and was carried away by the Danes in 830 AD, along with Tuathal, son of Feradach.

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    " A. D. 830. Tuathal, son of Feradach, was carried away by the Danes ; as was also the Shrine of Saint Adamnan from Domhnach-Maighen."

    The only other Ecclesiastical information connected with the present district of Farney, and noticed by the same authority, with the exception of what relates to Inishkeen, are the obits of two Priors, called of the Fer-Ross, that is, of the men of Ross, viz.

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 82

    As the companion tells it

    Close to Donaghmoyne, a church once kept the shrine of Saint Adamnan. In the year 830, the Danes carried that shrine away from Domhnach-Maighen. They took Tuathal, son of Feradach, at the same time. The Four Masters record both losses together in that single year.

15. English settlers and rack rents on Island Magee

    near Island Magee · parish · Antrim · 1635

    In 1635, Sir William Brereton noted that settlers from Lancashire and Cheshire were planted on Island Magee. These tenants paid rack rents of five or six shillings per acre for highly productive ploughing land yielding excellent corn.

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    " Near hereunto [Carrickfergus], Mr. Arthur Hill, [son & heir to Sir Moyses Hill,] hath a brave plantation, which he holds by lease, which still is for thirty years to come ; the land is my Lord Chichester's, & the lease was made for sixty years to Sir Moyses Hill by the old Lord Chichester. This plantation is said doth yield him a £1000 per annum. Many Lanckashire & Cheshire men are here planted; with some of them I conversed. They sit upon a rack rent, and pay 5s. or 6s. an acre for good ploughing land, which now is clothed with excellent good corn."

    20 " There is a ffayre Castle buylte at Monahan on the kings charge wherin Sr Edward Blanye nowe dwells, who for makinge of it more conveniant for himselfe for his owne tyme hath layde out good somes of money of his owne." " The said Sr Edward Blanye hath buylte a very large Bawne w'Mymeand stone 18 foote high well flanked wth Bulwarks upon his land

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 61

    As the companion tells it

    Near Carrickfergus, the parish of Island Magee holds a story from 1635. Sir William Brereton found Mr. Arthur Hill, son and heir to Sir Moyses Hill, holding a brave plantation there by lease. The land was Lord Chichester's, the lease made for 60 years to Sir Moyses Hill by the old Lord Chichester, with 30 years still to come. The plantation was said to yield 1000 per annum. Many Lancashire and Cheshire men were planted there. Brereton conversed with some of them. They sat upon a rack rent, paying 5 or 6 shillings an acre for good ploughing land, "clothed with excellent good corn."

16. Ever McMahon warns of dispossession from ancestral lands in Farney

    Farney · barony · Monaghan · 1592–1593

    In letters dated March 1592-3, Ever McMahon reminded the Lord Treasurer that he, his nine sons, four brothers, and all his horsemen and followers were to be dispossessed of their ancient inheritance by John Talbot. He sought recompense for his long service watching the borders of the English Pale.

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    Letters from Ever Mc Mahon dated on the 13th and 19th of March, 1592-3, remind the Lord Treasurer, " that himself, his nine sons all serviceable men, his four brothers, and all his horsemen and followers, are to be dispossessed of their antient inheritance by Mr. John Talbot, May next coming ;" he refers his Lordship to Mr. Wilbraham, her Majesty's Solicitor of Ireland,50 and to Mr. Deane of Ardmage, Sir George Carew,51 Sir Henry Harington, with divers others then present ; he mentions also the land which the Lord Deputy had restored to him, as a small portion of waste mountain land, uninhabited this forty years, and always known to belong to his predecessors, but usurped by Mc Mahon ; he hopes in conclusion for recompense, " else it is but folly for any of Ulster hereafter, to crave any recompense for Service." 5"

    With the hope of influencing the Lord Treasurer in his favour, Ever Mc Mahon procured letters of recommendation from the Lord Deputy53 and Council, and his neighbors of the Pale. Pie is styled in the dispatch of the former, dated from Dublin, the 5th of January, 1592-3, "a principall gentleman of the County of Monochan attending the Court in England, his children civilly brought up, and have th'englishe languadge." The letter is signed by " The Lord Viscount Gormanston, The Baron of Louthe, and Sir John Bellewe Knt," and bears date the 28th of March, 1593,5* it mentions him with commendation, as one " who took government of the territory of Eerney since his father's death, and still hath been the only man to reduce that Country to Civility, and therefore in our judgements hath deserved special favor."52

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 50

    As the companion tells it

    The barony of Farney lies in Monaghan, and in the spring of 1593 a man who had governed it wrote to the Lord Treasurer with a warning. His name was Ever McMahon. In letters dated the 13th and 19th of March 1592-3, he told the Lord Treasurer that he, his nine sons all serviceable men, his four brothers, and all his horsemen and followers were to be dispossessed of their ancient inheritance by John Talbot, May next coming. He sought recompense for his long service watching the borders of the English Pale, saying, "else it is but folly for any of Ulster hereafter, to crave any recompense for Service." He referred his Lordship to Mr. Wilbraham, her Majesty's Solicitor of Ireland, Mr. Deane of Ardmage, Sir George Carew, Sir Henry Harington, and divers others. He mentioned land the Lord Deputy had restored to him, a small portion of waste mountain land, uninhabited this forty years, and always known to belong to his predecessors, but usurped by McMahon. To influence the Lord Treasurer, McMahon procured letters of recommendation from the Lord Deputy and Council, and his neighbours of the Pale. In a dispatch from Dublin, dated the 5th of January 1592-3, he is styled "a principall gentleman of the County of Monochan attending the Court in England, his children civilly brought up." A letter from the Lord Viscount Gormanston, the Baron of Louthe, and Sir John Bellewe, dated the 28th of March 1593, commends him as one "who took government of the territory of Eerney since his father's death, and still hath been the only man to reduce that Country to Civility, and therefore in our judgements hath deserved special favor."

17. Farney described as waste and desolate

    Farney · barony · Monaghan · 1572–1573

    The territory of Farney is described as lying mostly waste and desolate with few inhabitants, suffering constant depredations from hostile groups on either side. This reflects the devastated condition of the area following the act of attainder of Shane O'Neil.

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    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-

    11 Sir John Davis's Hist. Tracts, page 230.

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 25

    As the companion tells it

    The barony of Farney, in Monaghan, was a place left mostly waste and desolate in these years. Few inhabitants remained. The land had once held green pastures and shrubby hills, but hostile groups living on either side carried out constant depredations against it, raiding again and again. This was the territory's condition following the act of attainder of Shane O'Neill. The author of the account calls it the Territory or Dominion of Farney, and notes it lay mostly waste and desolate, with few inhabitants, the scene of constant depredations from the hostile nations who lived on either side. Around this same time, attempts were beginning to settle an English plantation in Ulster, as it was called. The first offer came from Sir Thomas Gerrard of Lancashire, for the planting of the Glynnes and part of Clandeboy, dated the 15th of March, 1569. Sir Thomas Smith's attempt was put into execution first. His natural son, Mr. Thomas Smith, took possession of his estate in the Ardes in 1572. The attempt of Walter Devereux, Earl of Essex, undertaken in the following year, was the most important. Sir William Fitzwilliam was Lord Deputy of Ireland, having succeeded Sussex in 1571. He wrote from Ballahowth on the 26th of October, 1572, to the Lord Treasurer, Burleigh, saying he was even now on his journey along the borders.

18. Garrison and thatched houses at Newrath

    Newrath · townland · Louth

    The Lord Lieutenant placed a garrison at Newrath, half a mile from the hill of Louth, featuring a square castle, a great bawn with a ditch, and many thatched houses for lodging soldiers. Command was given to Sir Christopher St Laurence, Baron of Howth.

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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

19. Mac Mahon burial tomb at Clones

    Clones · town · Monaghan

    The burial place of the Mac Mahon family at Clones is described as a great stone coffin that has remained above ground, firmly fixed with earth and stones, with a heavy angular coverlid shaped like a house roof and small pillars at the ends, bearing antique but defaced inscriptions.

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    9 The burial place of the Mac Mahon family at Clones, is described by Sir Charles Coote in his Survey of Monaghan (page 114,) as "a great tomb or stone coffin, which has remained always over ground, but firmly fixed with earth and stones around it; the stone of which it is composed, is a very strong rock, and there is no other coffin around any corpse, which is interred in it. The coverlid is very heavy, and shaped angular, like the roof of a house, with two small pillars arising from the ends; on each side of this cover, is a very antique inscription, but the characters are almost entirely defaced."

    10 Archdall's Monasticon, p. 586.

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 14

    As the companion tells it

    Clones holds the burial place of the Mac Mahon family. Sir Charles Coote described it in his Survey of Monaghan as a great tomb or stone coffin, which has remained always above ground, firmly fixed with earth and stones around it. The stone is a very strong rock, and there is no other coffin around any corpse interred in it. The coverlid is very heavy, shaped angular like the roof of a house, with two small pillars arising from the ends. On each side of this cover is a very antique inscription, but the characters are almost entirely defaced.

20. Mac Mahon burns and spoils Farney; Lord Delvyn pursues from Ardee, 1579

    Farney · barony · Monaghan · 1579

    Mac Mahon entered Farney with sixty horsemen and a hundred Scots, burning and spoiling the country. The Lord of Delvyn, stationed at Ardee, set out in pursuit with light horsemen, recovered the prey, and slew or took prisoners of Mac Mahon's wounded company.

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    " Mac Mahon, upon what splene I know not, entred into the Cap" of fferney his countrey with a lx horse, and a cth Scotts and burned and prayed him ; The L. of Delvyn beinge at Ardey where I lefte him with the rysinge owte, havinge understandinge thereof, tooke Lte horsemen and pte of the footemen, and allthough he were farre of uppon the understandinge of this attempt, yet wm the horsemen he made such speade, as he gott the sight of Mc Mahon and his Companie entringe into his owne countrey w*

    12 The stone measures six feet five inches long, by four feet four inches broad, from the information of Mr. J. B. Doyle of the Ordnance Survey, to whom I am obliged for the drawing from which the wood-cut of this curious relic was made. See Mr. O'Donovan's note to "The Tribes and Customs of Hy-Fiachrach," for an interesting account of the inauguration of Irish Chieftains.

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 37

    As the companion tells it

    In 1579 Mac Mahon entered Farney with sixty horse and a hundred Scots, burning and spoiling the country. The Lord of Delvyn, stationed at Ardee, heard of the raid. Though he was far off, he took light horsemen and part of the footmen and made such speed that he caught sight of Mac Mahon and his company entering their own country. He recovered the prey and slew or took prisoners of Mac Mahon's wounded company.

21. Maguire raids Farney with burnings and killings, 1593

    Farney · barony · Monaghan · 1593

    In September 1593, Magwyre (Maguire) broke his oath to Tyrone and launched hostile incursions into County Monaghan, committing burnings and killings, particularly upon Farney. The Lord Deputy and Council reported these attacks from Dublin.

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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

    The barony of Farney lies along this road. In September 1593, Magwyre, as the record calls him, broke the oath and promise he had made to Tyrone, and in open hostility made sudden incursions into County Monaghan. He committed burnings and killings in sundry parts there, namely upon Farney, and also upon Castle Ringe, being Mr. Talbot's lands on the borders of the County of Louth. On his return he gave, in the words of the source, a prowde attempt upon the garrison of Monaghan lying in the Abbey there. They were repulsed, with the loss of 24 of their best leaders left dead upon the place, and about 120 others sore wounded. The Seneschall advertised this, commending the soldiers, who were 200 foot. The Lord Deputy and Council reported these matters from Dublin.

22. McMahon's cattle raid at Magheross in Farney

    Magheross · townland · Monaghan · 1589–1590

    Within five days of taking his oath before the Lord Deputy and Council, Hugh Roe McMahon displayed his banner against the Queen's subjects at Magheross in Farney and carried off 200 cows and geldings and 500 sheep and swine.

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    " The said Mc Mahon wthin v daies after he tooke his oathe before the lo : Deputie and Councell, did splaie his banner against her Mays subjects at Magher-Roysse in fferny, and tooke from thence ijcc cowes and garrans, and vc shepe and swine.

    " The said Mc Mahon since he took his leave at Dublin wth the Lo : Deputie had in companie wth him Collo Mc Briens sonnes, traitors unto her Ma*16, and gave them license to robb and spoile the paale, and all the traitors that were w^in his Cuntrey were his chief Councellors in all bad accons, and gave open pclamacon that no man shold mell w"' them or arrest them or anie of them."37

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 45

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere around here, Hugh Roe McMahon made a mockery of his own word. He had gone to Dublin and taken his oath before the Lord Deputy and Council. Within five days he was back, and he raised his banner against the Queen's subjects at Magheross in Farney. He carried off 200 cows and geldings, and 500 sheep and swine. He had left Dublin in the company of Colla MacBrien's sons, men already declared traitors to the Queen. He gave them license to rob and spoil the Pale. Every traitor living in his country served as his chief counsellor in all bad actions. He put out open proclamation that no man should meddle with them or arrest any of them.

23. Sir Ross McMahnon's submission at Drogheda, 1589

    Drogheda · town · Louth · 1589

    Following the devastation of his territory, Sir Ross McMahnon made his submission to the Lord Deputy at a conference in Drogheda in May 1589, alongside the Earl of Tyrone and other Ulster chieftains. He yielded two pledges and agreed to accept a sheriff nominated by the crown.

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    " Touching Mc Mahon, he hath made his submission, and hath y elded to put in twoe of his best and dearest men as pledges,30 both for his loyaltie and good demeanr hereafter, for a fine to her Matie, and also to abide such order for restitucon of stelthyes and harmes don upon the subjects, as Commissioners authorized by us shall laie downe for bothe sides, whome upon the sending in of his pledges we mean to dispatche thither for that purpose, and wth all doe hope better of his conformitie hereafter, the rather for that he hath yealded to accept of a Sherife into his Countrie by or nominacon."29 Sir Ross Mac Mahon survived the meeting at Dundalk but a short time ; his death, which is thus alluded to in the Annals of the Four Masters, having taken place about the months of June or July, 1589.

    " 1589- Mac Mahon [Rossa, son of Art, son of Brian of the early rising, son of Redmond, son of Glasney] died, & Brian, son of Hugh-Oge, son of Hugh, son of John-Boy, Lord of Dartree of Oriell, & Emer, son of Cooley,

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 41

    As the companion tells it

    Drogheda was where Sir Ross McMahnon came to submit in May 1589. His territory had been devastated, and the Lord Deputy held a conference in the town. The Earl of Tyrone and other Ulster chieftains were present. McMahnon yielded "two of his best and dearest men as pledges" for his loyalty and good demeanor thereafter. He agreed to a fine to her Majesty, and to abide by such order for restitution of thefts and harms done upon the subjects as commissioners authorized by the crown should lay down. He also yielded to accept a sheriff into his country by the crown's nomination. The record notes hope of better conformity hereafter for that reason. He survived but a short time. The Annals of the Four Masters give his death in June or July 1589. They name him as "Rossa, son of Art, son of Brian of the early rising, son of Redmond, son of Glasney." With him died Brian, son of Hugh-Oge, son of Hugh, son of John-Boy, Lord of Dartree of Oriell, and Emer, son of Cooley.

24. County Louth impoverished by passing soldiers

    Louth · town · Louth · 1575

    In December 1575, Lord Deputy Sidney reported that County Louth was greatly impoverished due to the constant passage of soldiers travelling to and from the north, compounded by the hostile behaviour of the men of Farney.

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    In fact Essex found it necessary at this time to repair to England, for the purpose of superintending in person the passing of his Patent, which had been delayed, to his great vexation, for many months. There is a copy of a note among the State Papers, dated in November, 1575, from Walsingham, probably addressed to the Earl of Chartley ; conveying the Queen's congratulations on his Lordship's safe return from Ireland, and assuring him " In conclusion I find her Mat,e3 affection towards your L. such as yr best frends can desire." 42 Nevertheless, notwithstanding the gratious disposition of her Majesty, nothing appears to have been done for some time ; Sidney's dispatches at this period contain melancholy evidence of the wretched state of the north of Ireland in general, and of Farney in particular. " The Countye of Louth," he describes, " as greatly impoverished through ye continual concourse of Soldiers passing to and fro ye north, and besides ye ill neighbourhood of ye men of fferney. The good townes of Carlingford Dundalke and Ardie are extremely e impoverished and only ye towne of Drogheda in better state, wch was moche amended and increased in wealth, through the great expense of the Earle of Essex, who lay and contynued there moche, and during his abode verye bountifullye and honourably spent in the same. So that onlye ffarney is the gapp open to the hurte of the rest, wdl I beseeche yr 11: to hasten my Lo. of Essex, to take order in, as the occasion of his staye in resolacon to place some one man to take the chardge

    42 S. P. O. Orig. 43 Printed in the Sidney Papers, vol. i. p. 75, &c.

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 30

    As the companion tells it

    The town of Louth sits in the county of the same name, and in December 1575, Lord Deputy Sidney's dispatches gave what he called melancholy evidence of the wretched state of the north of Ireland in general, and of Farney in particular. He described the County of Louth as greatly impoverished through the continual concourse of soldiers passing to and from the north, and besides the ill neighbourhood of the men of Farney. The good towns of Carlingford, Dundalk, and Ardee were extremely impoverished. Only Drogheda was in better state, much amended and increased in wealth through the great expense of the Earl of Essex, who lay and continued there much, and during his abode very bountifully and honourably spent in the same. Sidney wrote that only Farney was the gap open to the hurt of the rest, and he asked that Essex be hastened to take order in it. Essex had by then gone to England, to superintend the passing of his Patent, which had been delayed to his great vexation for many months. Walsingham wrote a note in November 1575, probably to the Earl of Chartley, conveying the Queen's congratulations on Essex's safe return from Ireland. But despite the gracious disposition of her Majesty, nothing appears to have been done for some time.

25. Ever McMahon's wealth from Farney lands after the wars

    Farney · barony · Monaghan · 1606–1608

    Sir John Davis reported that Ever Mc Collo Mc Mahoune, who had been the first of his name to enter the late rebellion, had since become farmer of all Lord Essex's lands in Farney and had grown wealthier than all the rest of his name combined.

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    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

    8 From the original Grant, dated May 1606, (witnessed by Richard Hadsor,) penes E. P. S.

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 56

    As the companion tells it

    As the road takes you through the barony of Farney, Sir John Davis reported that the division of the County of Monaghan did not touch it. But he noted one man, Ever Mc Collo Mc Mahoune. Davis called him

26. Ever McMahonn claims Inishkeen lands by McMahon descent

    Inishkeen · town · Monaghan

    Ever McMahonn, also called Ever Mc Cowle, complained to the Crown that the lands of Inishkeen belonged to the Earl of Essex. When confronted by officials, he claimed the lands not for the Earl but for himself as one of the McMahons, upon whom the lands were lineally descended, offering to pay the Primate's yearly chiefry.

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    eonfirme theire order, and to adward an Injunction in this case, well remembringe that Walter Earle of Essex, did in my hearinge move the Prymate Lancaster that he might be his tenant of those lands; wch he denyed to graunte, and now in myne owne tyme that four severall Prymates and their Tenants, viz: Lancaster, Longe, Garney, and Usher, have for these 32 yeares past successively possessed those lands of Iniskyne wthout challenge made by anie of the same, (savinge in the tyme of the late rebellion, wherein unlawfully they usurped possession,) I humblie leave it to yr lips wise consideration. His suggestion touchinge the attacheirl is true, but the ground thereof proceeded from some contemptuous words used by the said Ever against the Court and against the said Injunction, viz : that he would not obey it, whereupon he being in Dublin, was called into the Court, and was reproved only for the said contemptuous words, and he consented to enter into Recognizance to pmitt Garney to enjoye the possession of those lands, untyll he should recover the same in some of his Ma"es Courts : Now yt seemeth by yr lips Ires of the last of ffebruarii last past wch are but newlie come unto or hands, that Ever Mc Cowle hath renewed to y1 lips his former complaint by a newe information taxinge us that in this cause we have not yet done right to the Earle of Essex, (whose right and Tytle to the Barrony of Donemayne contayninge the countryes called Farney and Clancarvall, in the whole amoun tinge to 21 Ballebeto's, (as we have byne credeblie informed, ) 15 we ever have byne, and so will be most carefull to pserve ; ) but these lands of Iniskyne beinge Church lands, and tyme beyonde the memory of man ptaininge to the Prymate of Armaghe, we assure orselves, y* is no pte of his lops desire unlawfully to seeke. And for yr lips better satisfaction herein wee doe advertize you upon or creditts, that upon receipt of those yr lis Ires, we called before us Ever Mc Mahon, and expostulating e wth him for abusinge yr lips by his untrue information, viz. that the lands of Iniskyne doe belonge to the said Earle, he answered us, that he doth not make any challenge to those lands of Iniskyne in the Earl of Essex his right, but in his own right, as one of the Mc Mahons, upon whome those lands are lyneallie descended, alledginge further that the Prymate of Armaghe hath

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 59

    As the companion tells it

    Inishkeen is a town you pass through in Monaghan, and its lands were once the subject of a long and stubborn dispute. A man called Ever McMahon, also known as Ever Mc Cowle, complained to the Crown that the lands of Inishkeen belonged to the Earl of Essex. Four successive Primates of Armagh — Lancaster, Longe, Garney, and Usher — and their tenants had possessed those lands for 32 years without challenge from anyone, save during the late rebellion, when possession was unlawfully usurped. Ever had already caused trouble in Dublin, using contemptuous words against the Court and against an injunction, saying he would not obey it. He was called before the Court and reprimanded for those words, and he agreed to enter into recognizance, permitting Garney to hold possession of the lands until Ever might recover them in one of His Majesty's courts. Then Ever renewed his complaint with a new information, accusing the officials of failing to do right by the Earl of Essex. The Earl's title ran to the barony of Donemayne, which contained the countries called Farney and Clancarvall, amounting in all to 21 ballebetoes. But the officials maintained the lands of Inishkeen were Church lands, pertaining to the Primate of Armagh beyond the memory of man. They called Ever McMahon before them and expostulated with him for abusing their lordship with his untrue information, that the lands belonged to the Earl of Essex. He answered them that he made no challenge to those lands in the Earl of Essex's right, but in his own right, as one of the McMahons, upon whom those lands were lineally descended. He alleged further that the Primate of Armagh had

27. Castle and garrison established in Monaghan town

    Monaghan · town · Monaghan · 1604

    Due to the county's reputation for harbouring thieves and rebellious inhabitants, King James I ordered the construction of a strong fort or castle in Monaghan town. A garrison of soldiers and a commander were appointed to enforce the King's laws.

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    The Preamble to Sr Edd Blayney's patent [Dec. 13, 1604] of Governor of the Castle of Monaghan, printed in Lodge's Patentee Officers [p. 128], states that " whereas the County of Monaghan, in the province of Ulster, being a County bordering upon the English pale, is very much haunted & frequented by thieves robbers & other lewd people, & the inhabitants of the said County have been found, as well before the late rebellion as sithence, to be more stubborn & disobedient, & less conformable to the Kings laws & government then others of his subjects inhabiting more remote parts of the said province ; in regard whereof the king thought meet to build a strong fort or Castle in the town of Monaghan, & to plant a garrison of soldiers there, & to appoint a Commander or Seneschal over the said County &c. &c."

    31 Snap-haunce, the antient firelock.

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 61

    As the companion tells it

    The town of Monaghan sits in a part of Ulster that borders the old English pale. In 1604, King James I had good reason to take notice of it. The patent appointing Sir Edward Blayney as Governor of the Castle of Monaghan, dated December 13, 1604, set out the king's thinking plainly. The county was, it said, very much haunted and frequented by thieves, robbers, and other lewd people. The inhabitants had been found, both before the late rebellion and since, to be more stubborn and disobedient, and less conformable to the king's laws and government than others of his subjects living in more remote parts of the province. In light of all this, the king thought it fitting to build a strong fort or castle in the town of Monaghan, to plant a garrison of soldiers there, and to appoint a commander or seneschal over the county.

28. Chancellor Cusacke's 1552 account of warfare and waste in Monaghan

    Monaghan · town · Monaghan · 1552

    Chancellor Thomas Cusacke described the McMahon countries of Dartry, Farney, and Monaghan as large, fast, and strong, noting that internecine warfare had made most of the country waste. He arranged governance and military obligations among the three captains.

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    " Next to Breany is Mc Mahons countrye, called Oriell, wherein be Three Captaynes, the one in Dardarye (Dartry\ the other in fferny, and Mc Mahon in Lieghtrie (Monaghan), of wch. three Countries Me Mahon is cheiffe Capt : these Countries are lardge, ffast, and stronge, amonge whome there contynued intestyne warre before tyme, whereby the most parte of the countrye was made waste, neverthelesse they be tall men of the number of lxxx horsemen cc kerne and vixx Galloglas, and all these ffor the most parte doe occupie Husbandrye, except the kearne, and yet some of them doe occupie likewyse, and nowe of late before Easter, by appoyntmte of my Lorde Deputye, I resorted to them to see their countryes ordered, and they all assemblinge before me, I caused them not onlye to ffinde at their owne chardges yearlie vixx Galloglasses to serve the Kinge, and to attende uppon an Englishe Captayne of the English Pale wch hath the order of the Countrye committed unto him, ffor the keepinge of the Kings Maties. peace, the mayntenaunce of the good, and punishmte of the evell ; but alsoe caused them to put in there pledges to my handes, as well ffor the ffindeinge of the Galloglas, as ffor the due perfformaunce of the orders wch I tooke betwixt them, wch thinge was done wth out fforce, or rigor, and they as

    39 Carew MSS. 603, fol, 46. 2. 40 lb. fol. 132.

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 22

    As the companion tells it

    The road brings you near Monaghan, a town whose name Chancellor Thomas Cusacke knew in 1552 as the country of McMahon. He wrote of three McMahon countries, Dartry, Farney, and Monaghan itself, each under its own captain, with McMahon the chief captain among them. These countries he called large, fast, and strong. Yet before his time, warfare had continued among them, and the most part of the country was made waste. He counted their fighting men: 80 horsemen, 200 kerne, and 120 galloglas. He noted that most of them occupied husbandry, except the kerne, though even some of the kerne did the same. Before Easter, by appointment of the Lord Deputy, Cusacke went to see their countries ordered. They all assembled before him, and he caused them to find at their own charges yearly 120 galloglas to serve the King, and to attend upon an English captain of the English Pale who had the order of the country committed to him, for keeping the King's peace, the maintenance of the good, and punishment of the evil. He also caused them to put in their pledges to his hands, and all this, he said, was done without force or rigor.

29. Chichester's interest in Island Magee from Carrickfergus

    near Carrickfergus · town · Antrim · 1601

    Sir Arthur Chichester wrote from Knockfergus (Carrickfergus) on April 6, 1601, revealing he had long had his eye on Island Magee, though he affected to call it 'a thinge of small valeur.' He had dealt with one Charles Ogle, servant to the Earl of Essex, to acquire the land.

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    The peaceful times which followed the accession of James I. were so favourable to the improvement of Ireland, that in the year 1618, the Barony of Farney had more than trebled in value ; Brian, son of the celebrated Ever Mc Cooley Mc Mahon [who died the preceding year], having undertaken to farm it for one year at the high rent of £1500.17 Three years afterwards the Earl of Essex received a regrant from the Crown of the Manor of Farney, dated at Westminster the 28th day of May, 18th James I. (1621.) Instead of the rent of one horse, or £13, 6, 8, it was in future to be held at the rent of £26, 6, 8, Irish, payable at the feast of St. Michael, and at Easter. Island Magfee or Mc Guire's Island is not mentioned in the confirmation of James I. In other respects it is nearly a copy of Queen Elizabeth's original grant ; that property had been in fact sold by the Earl to Sir Arthur Chichester, by deed dated February 20, 7th James I. (1610) who, as it appears from the following note to Sir Robert Cecil from " Knockfergus, April 6, 1601," had long had his eye on this rich promontory, though he affects to call it " a t hinge of small valeur." " Att my last beinge in Englande, I dealte wth one Charles Ogle servaunte to the Earle of Essexe, for a peece of land

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 60

    As the companion tells it

    Carrickfergus was called Knockfergus in older records, and it was from here that Sir Arthur Chichester wrote to Sir Robert Cecil on April 6, 1601. He had his eye on Island Magee, a promontory he called a thing of small valeur, though the writer of the passage describing it calls it rich. In his own words, Chichester wrote that at his last being in England he dealt with one Charles Ogle, servant to the Earl of Essex, for a piece of land. The passage says he had long wanted it. The Earl of Essex held the Manor of Farney, and in 1618 the barony had more than trebled in value under the peaceful times that followed the accession of James I. Brian, son of the celebrated Ever Mc Cooley Mc Mahon, who died the preceding year, undertook to farm it for one year at the high rent of 1500 pounds. Three years afterwards, in 1621, Essex received a regrant from the Crown, dated at Westminster on the 28th of May. The rent changed from one horse, or 13 pounds, 6 shillings and 8 pence, to 26 pounds, 6 shillings and 8 pence Irish, payable at the feast of St. Michael and at Easter. Island Magee, or Mc Guire's Island, is not mentioned in that confirmation. It was nearly a copy of Queen Elizabeth's original grant. The property had in fact been sold by the Earl to Chichester, by deed dated February 20, 1610.

30. Essex musters army at Castle Kerran near Kells

    Kells · town · Meath · 1599

    Essex departed from Dublin towards Castle Kerran, a village near Kells in Eastmeath, where he mustered 2,700 foot and 300 horse before marching by the shortest way towards Donnemaine in Farney to plant a garrison.

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    69 — " He departed from Dublin towards Castle Kerran, a village not farr from Kelles in Eastmeath, where he mustred 2700 foote and 300 horse, conducting them by the shortest way towards Donnemaine in Ferny, purposing to plant there a garrison; for that from that place might be offended coniodiously all the rebells bordering upon Blackwater." Dymmok.

    108 SOME ACCOUNT OF THE TERRITORY

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 53

    As the companion tells it

    Kells, in 1599. Essex departed from Dublin towards Castle Kerran, a village not far from here in Eastmeath, where he mustered 2700 foot and 300 horse. He conducted them by the shortest way towards Donnemaine in Farney, purposing to plant there a garrison, for that from that place might be offended conveniently all the rebels bordering upon Blackwater.

31. John Talbot builds house of strength on Monaghan borders

    Monaghan · town · Monaghan · 1591–1592

    John Talbot inhabited a large scope of ground bordering Mc Mahon's Country and the Fews, and built a house of strength there. He was appointed Sheriff of County Monaghan by the Queen's direction, though the Lord Deputy considered a native gentleman preferable for the office.

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    48 S. P. O. In the same Collection is a letter from the Lord Deputy to Burghley, Nov. 5, 1591, giving his reasons why Mr. Talbot was an unfit person to be appointed Sheriff of the County of Monaghan, as her Majesty had directed him to be during pleasure. " There hath been a Patent granted by me, and this Council to Ross-Bane, a principal Gent of that County," a native to be preferred to one of the Pale for that office. A Draft of Burghley's letter in favor of Mr. Talbot, entirely in his lordship's autograph is in the S. P. O. The reason given for his being appointed Sheriff of Monaghan, is that "in respect he hath also buylded a hous of strength in those borders."

    Mr. John Talbot was son of William Talbot of Malahide, Esq. he was afterwards knighted by the Earl of Essex in August, 1599; he married a lady of his own antient house, as appears by the following inscription from a flat stone in Bromsgrove Church, Worcestershire, the burial place of the Talbots of Grafton. " Here lyeth the body of Dame Bridget Talbot, daughter to Sr John Talbot of Grafton, and wife to Sr John Talbot of Castle Ring in Ireland, who died 1619." Sir John Talbot died Nov. 7, 1613. See the Repertory of Inquisitions, Louth, Jae I. Nr. 4.

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 48

    As the companion tells it

    Monaghan, in the years around 1591, was a place where the Crown's authority pressed against the Gaelic order, and the man who pressed it here was John Talbot. He was the son of William Talbot of Malahide, and he took hold of a large scope of ground bordering McMahon's Country and the Fews. On that ground he built a house of strength, a fortified dwelling meant to hold what he had claimed. The Queen directed that he be appointed Sheriff of County Monaghan, serving during her pleasure. But the Lord Deputy disagreed. On the 5th of November 1591, he wrote to Burghley in London, arguing that Talbot was unfit for the office. He pointed out that a patent had already been granted by him and his Council to Ross-Bane, a principal gentleman of that county. His view was that a native of Monaghan should be preferred to a man from the Pale. Burghley, however, drafted a letter entirely in his own hand in Talbot's favour. The reason given for the appointment was that Talbot had, in the words of the record,

32. Lord Essex's arrival at Dublin Haven

    Dublin · city · Dublin · 1576

    Lord Essex landed at Dublin Haven in July 1576 and was warmly welcomed by the city's citizens and local gentlemen. He stayed around Dublin for several weeks, being entertained by notable figures including the Lord Chancellor and the Countess of Kildare.

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    " I receaved letters out of Ireland dated the 10th of this monthe," writes the latter gentleman from the Temple in August, 1576, "from my fellowes, Vies and Lloid, advertising the good health of my Lord ; His embarking at Holy-Head 22d of July ; His landing at Dublin Haven the 23d. His great welcome the same day, by the citizens of Dublin, and gentlemen of the country, that came to him at his landing. The 24th fested by the Lord Chancellor ; and his aboud about Dublin till the 9th of August ; invited by sundry of his frends, as the Archbishop of Dublin, and the Countess of Kildare. The 9th day of August, he travailed towards the Lord Deputie, who was returning from Connaught ; and was greatilie entertained by the right noble Earle of Ormond, at a house of the Earles, where the Earle came purposely to mete, and entertayne my Lord; the morrowe, the 10th of August, my Lord Ormond with my Lord, met the Lord Deputie, about 28 miles from Dublin, where there was greate shewe of friendly salutacons, of permament frendships.

    " At the Lord Deputies coming to Dublin, he solemply caused my Lords patents of Earle Marshall of the contrey of ffernes to be redd and published; and invested my Lord in his office. And greatlie to be thought, that my Lord shall have com'oditie by that contrey ; but that I referre to further triell. Exitvs acta probat. The Lord Deputie the 15th of this month, intended to go presentlie to Connaught to seke to suppresse there two Rebells (the sons of the Earl of Clanrickard) ; and my Lord intends to remayne nere his owne country to defend those borders, and to take full survey of his lands." 5+

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 33

    As the companion tells it

    In the summer of 1576, Dublin was the port where Lord Essex set foot in Ireland. He had embarked at Holyhead on the 22nd of July and landed at Dublin Haven the following day. The citizens of Dublin and the gentlemen of the country came to meet him at his landing, and gave him a great welcome. On the 24th he was feasted by the Lord Chancellor. He stayed about Dublin until the 9th of August, invited by sundry friends, among them the Archbishop of Dublin and the Countess of Kildare. On the 9th of August he travelled towards the Lord Deputy, who was returning from Connaught. He was greatly entertained by the right noble Earl of Ormond, at a house of the Earl's, where the Earl came purposely to meet and entertain him. The next day, the 10th of August, Lord Ormond and Lord Essex together met the Lord Deputy about 28 miles from Dublin, and there was a great show of friendly salutations and permanent friendships. When the Lord Deputy came to Dublin, he solemnly caused Lord Essex's patents of Earl Marshall of the country of Fernes to be read and published, and invested him in his office. On the 15th of August the Lord Deputy intended to go presently to Connaught to suppress two rebels, the sons of the Earl of Clanrickard. Lord Essex intended to remain near his own country, to defend those borders and take full survey of his lands.

33. Lord Weymouth founds free school at Carrickmacross

    Carrickmacross · town · Monaghan · 1711

    In 1711, Lord Weymouth founded a free school on his moiety of the Farney property at Carrickmacross. The institution maintained a high character among the endowed schools of Ireland to the present day.

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    In 1711, five years after the date of the preceding letter, Lord Weymouth founded a free school on his moiety of the property at Carrickmacross, an Institution, which to the present day has maintained a high character among the endowed schools of Ireland.10 According to tradition Lord Ferrers undertook at the same time, as another means of improving the town, to build a barrack for a troop of horse there, but this plan, if ever intended, was never put into execution. This military force might have been very desirable for the purpose of keeping in check the Rapperees or Torys, as certain gangs of freebooters, originally the disbanded soldiers of the armies of William III. and James II. were called, and who, as it appears from such entries as the following in the accounts of the estate, infested the Barony of Farney.

    " Novr 26 1717, Pd for a Guard House, & given to Soldiers on the Rapps ace' £2. 12. 0."

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 75

    As the companion tells it

    The town of Carrickmacross has a school with a long history. In 1711, Lord Weymouth founded a free school on his moiety of the property here. The institution maintained a high character among the endowed schools of Ireland to the present day. According to tradition, Lord Ferrers undertook at the same time, as another means of improving the town, to build a barrack for a troop of horse there. But this plan, if ever intended, was never put into execution. That force might have been desirable for keeping in check the Rapparees or Tories, as certain gangs of freebooters were called. They were originally the disbanded soldiers of the armies of William III and James II, and they infested the Barony of Farney. An entry dated November 26, 1717, in the estate accounts records payment "for a Guard House, and given to Soldiers on the Rapps" of 2 pounds, 12 shillings.

34. Tradition of nine McMahon archbishops and bishops at Inishkeen

    Inishkeen · town · Monaghan

    According to local tradition, nine archbishops and nine bishops of the McMahon family are interred in the glebe-land close to the churchyard at Inishkeen. The site also yielded a square bell, urns, stone cells, and artificial caves, believed to be remains of the monastery.

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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, carries a tradition that nine archbishops and nine bishops of the McMahon family lie buried in the glebe-land close to the churchyard. The belief runs deep, though it rests on local say rather than record. About forty years before the account was written, a square bell was said to have been found near the church. Several urns were dug up in a line on the north side of the church. Stone cells, formed of stones and measuring six to eight feet square, were discovered in the immediate vicinity of the sepulchral mount, or rath, and the old walls adjoining. People took these to be the remains of the monastery of Inishkeen. Several large artificial caves were also found on the north side of the river. The ancient state of Inishkeen is connected to St. Dageus, who was said by some monkish writers to have been smith to St. Kieran. He was bishop of Inis-chaoin, or Inis-coindega, in Origellia, in the beginning of the sixth century. Near the churchyard, a stone structure with walls three feet thick once nearly met destruction. A mason repairing the adjoining bridge began undermining it as the nearest quarry, until a man named Norman Steele caught him and, as the story goes, gave him a horsewhipping.

35. Earl of Essex's residence at Carrickfergus

    near Carrickfergus · town · Antrim · 1573–1575

    The Earl of Essex had resided long at Carrickfergus. Vestiges of his house were still visible on Essex Street in recent years, and the adjoining walk was called Governor's Walk, with a double row of elm trees remaining until 1820 and an embattled bastion known as Essex Mount.

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    3J The Earl had resided long at Carrickfergus. " Within these few years there were some vestiges of the house in which he dwelt, at the south end, east side of Essex Street; the walk adjoining the house was also called from him, Governor's Walk, lately changed to Governor's Place. A double row of elm trees remained on the walk till 1820; at the west end was an embattled bastion called Essex Mount." Mc Skimmin's Carrickfergus, p. 29, note.

    31 Carew MSS. 628. p. 229. Addit. MSS. 4763. p. 3—23. copies.

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 28

    As the companion tells it

    Carrickfergus was where the Earl of Essex resided long. Vestiges of the house in which he dwelt stood at the south end of Essex Street, and the walk adjoining it was called Governor's Walk, later changed to Governor's Place. A double row of elm trees remained on the walk till 1820. At the west end was an embattled bastion known as Essex Mount.

36. Disorders and spoiling reported at Dundalk, 1582-3

    Dundalk · town · Louth · 1582–1583

    Commissioners sent to Dundalk found widespread disorders of spoiling, robbing, and murdering of the Queen's subjects by men of the Fewze, Farney, Mc Mahons' Country, Dartrey, and O'Reillys' country. No restitution could be had, and the English subjects were reduced to thraldom by the Irish.

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    " Touching the Northern borders adjoining to th'English pale, y* may please yr L: understand that lately I was apointed by the 1.1. justices amongst other commissioners to repaire to Dundalk, where were found suche dysorders of spoyling robbing and murthering of her Mats good subjects by the men of the fewze, ferney, Mc Mahons Country, the Dartrey, and Oreilleys countrey as pytifull y1 ys to be hard, we passed many orders against them, but no restitution could be had from them, and to take yl by force that may not be don for feare of styrring the yryshrey to rebellion ; wch will brede charges to her Matie wch the yryshrey pceaving do not only scorne the orders but hold on their wicked doings against the subjects wch be made thralles to th' yryshry." 14

    It was shortly after this, that at another meeting at Dundalk, Hugh O'Neill, then called Baron of Dungannon, offered to defend the pale, if two hundred footmen were allowed him ; ultimately, however, the trust devolved upon the Baron of Dunsany, who, by warrant dated July 30, 1583, was constituted guardian of the borders of the Breney, the ffues, fferney, and Mc Mahons country, " where his ancestors the Plunkets have most continued," with a small band of twenty horsemen to attend him.1*

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 37

    As the companion tells it

    Dundalk, a town the road passes through or near, was the scene of widespread disorder in 1582 and 1583. Commissioners were sent there and found what the record calls such disorders of spoiling, robbing, and murdering of her Majesty's good subjects by the men of the Fewze, Farney, Mc Mahons' Country, the Dartrey, and O'Reillys' country as pitiful to hear. The commissioners passed many orders against them, but no restitution could be had from them. To take it by force could not be done for fear of stirring the Irishry to rebellion, which would breed charges to her Majesty. The Irishry, perceiving this, did not only scorn the orders but hold on their wicked doings against the subjects, who were made thralles to the Irishry. Shortly after this, at another meeting at Dundalk, Hugh O'Neill, then called Baron of Dungannon, offered to defend the pale if 200 footmen were allowed him. Ultimately, however, the trust devolved upon the Baron of Dunsany, who by warrant dated July 30, 1583, was constituted guardian of the borders of the Breney, the Fewze, Farney, and Mc Mahons' country, where his ancestors the Plunkets had most continued, with a small band of 20 horsemen to attend him.

37. Ever Mc Colowe takes possession of Farney with armed force

    Farney · barony · Monaghan · 1594

    Ever Mc Colowe arrived in Farney on a Sunday with his followers and creaghts, entering possession of the whole country. Cormock, brother of the Earl of Tyrone, accompanied him with great forces and left 40 horsemen and 180 shot as bonaghts for his defence.

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    — " The latest newes that I can certifie yr LP. is the coininge of Ever Mc Colowe, himself his followers and creaghts to ffearnii on Sundaie last and entred possession of the whole countrie. Th'earle's (Tirone's) brother Cormock, came wth greate forces in his compaine, to place him there, and lefte wth him as Bonaghts for his better defence 40 horsemen and 180 shott, besides what he is able to make of his owne compaine, and others of that countrie who latelie were in ptecti with John Talbott of whom a good number is nowe gone to dwell wth the said Eveir wch alwaies was my oppinion of them, the comon use of those that be ptected in the like manr, wthout securitie of their loyaltie." 6o

    " Advertisementes receaved by severall espialles this xxth of ffebruarii, 1594.

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 52

    As the companion tells it

    The barony of Farney, in Monaghan, was taken by force in the winter of 1594. Ever Mc Colowe came on a Sunday with his followers and creaghts and entered possession of the whole country. Cormock, brother of the Earl of Tyrone, accompanied him with great forces to place him there. Cormock left 40 horsemen and 180 shot with him as bonaghts for his better defence, besides what Ever could raise from his own company and from men of that country. A good number of those men had lately been under the protection of John Talbott, and had now gone to dwell with Ever. The writer noted that this was always his opinion of men held under protection, that they would shift without security of their loyalty. The report was dated the 20th of February, 1594.

38. Ever McMahon provisions Lord Deputy's soldiers in Mc Mahon's Country

    Monaghan · town · Monaghan

    During the government of Sir Henry Sidney, Ever McMahon brought the Lord Deputy and his forces into Mc Mahon's Country and provided forty cows for the soldiers on their first night encamped. The Deputy remained there a month until Mc Mahon submitted and gave pledges to be subject to her Majesty.

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    "1st his service in the time of Sir Henry Sidney, when he went with all his forces to help the Lord of Louth, when Mc Mahon chief of his name entered the territories of the said Lord, at that time the said Mc Mahon slew the said Lord, with one of Ever's brothers and xii of his men, and took himself prisoner and ij of his brothers, and detained them till he gave as pledges his son and heir and eldest brother, notwithstanding said Ever not respecting his said son and brother, he brought the said Deputy and forces into Mc Mahons Country, and bestowed on his lordship's souldiers the first night they incamped, " fortye kowes." The Deputy continued there one month, untill Mc Mahon did submit himself, and gave pledges to be subject to her Majesty.

    "2. In the government of Sir William Drury, the said Ever took Arte Mc Colle Mc Bryan Mc Mahon prisoner, with Coll his brothers son and two of their followers, ring-leaders of many robberies on the English Pale, and delivered them to the Lord Deputy who presently executed them by marshall law, and so made enemies of the Mc Mahons.

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 49

    As the companion tells it

    In the town of Monaghan, in the time of Sir Henry Sidney's government, Ever McMahon served the Lord Deputy. Mc Mahon, chief of his name, had entered the territory of the Lord of Louth and slain him, along with one of Ever's brothers and twelve of his men. Mc Mahon took Ever himself prisoner, and two of his brothers, and held them until Ever gave his son and heir and his eldest brother as pledges. Notwithstanding this, Ever brought the Deputy and all his forces into Mc Mahon's Country. On the first night they encamped, he bestowed on the soldiers "fortye kowes." The Lord Deputy continued there one month, until Mc Mahon submitted himself and gave pledges to be subject to her Majesty. Later, under the government of Sir William Drury, Ever took Arte Mc Colle Mc Bryan Mc Mahon prisoner, along with Coll his brother's son and two of their followers, men described as ring-leaders of many robberies on the English Pale. He delivered them to the Lord Deputy, who executed them at once by martial law, and so made enemies of the Mc Mahons.

39. Fin-Mac-Coul's Chair at Lough Fea, a place of sanctuary

    Lough Fea · lake or lakes · Monaghan

    A natural seat in the limestone rock at Lough Fea in Doohatty is called Fin-Mac-Coul's Chair and is traditionally said to have been a place of sanctuary. The site lies within the grounds of the Shirley family mansion.

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    Doohatty, Dub-cAice, Black Tate. Called Doate and Kinalege in 1655, and Kilneleg, Duehatty, and Farts in 1734, at the latter period there were considerable remains of wood. In this Townland is the Manorial Mansion of the Shirley family, originally commenced by Evelyn John Shirley, Esq. in the year 1825. In the grounds of this place, called Lough Fea, ICoc Pea6A, Lake of the Bull-rushes, from the lake of that name adjoining, is a natural seat in the limestone rock, called Fin-Ma c-Coul's Chair, and which is traditionally said to have been a place of sanctuary.

    200 SOME ACCOUNT OF THE TERRITORY

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 108

    As the companion tells it

    Lough Fea takes its name from the bull-rushes, the Lake of the Bull-rushes. The land around it is Doohatty, called Black Tate, and by 1734 it still had considerable remains of wood. The Shirley family built their manorial mansion here, begun by Evelyn John Shirley in 1825. Within the grounds, in the limestone rock, there is a natural seat called Fin-Mac-Coul's Chair. Tradition says it was a place of sanctuary. Who came there seeking safety, and from what, the record does not tell. The chair remains, cut into the rock, and the name holds.

40. Fitzwilliam musters troops at Ardee

    Ardee · town · Louth · 1572

    Sir William Fitzwilliam, Lord Deputy of Ireland, reported mustering the County of Louth at Ardee and finding only a poor showing of troops. He expressed concern about hazarding the Queen's honor on such inadequate forces.

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    " It hath bin written to me," continues Sir William Fitzwilliam, " by waye of psuasion how necessarie it were to place Englishe-men in these waste countryes, as if I had mislyked of Mr. Smithe's enterprize, no, as I wrot to yr L. in that matter I never mislyked, but rather allowed of that cose, as the best, so it were indeede and thoroughlie ron owte." — " I found yesterdaye at Ardy," he adds, " where I mustrid this Countie of Louthe such a silly showe of Battons, as God blesse me from neding to hazarde her Ma,ies honor and state upon, tomorrow I go to Meath, where God send a sight of better comfort."

    But to return to the expedition of the Earl of Essex in 1573. " Ireland was then," observes Lodge in his sketch of the life of that illustrious nobleman, " the only scene of military operations, & a fierce insurrection reigned, particularly in Ulster ; Essex prevailed on the Queen to permit him to volunteer his services there, under a very singular agreement. Brian Mac Phelim, more frequently called " the great O'Neil," a powerful chief, had possessed himself of the most part of the district of Clanhughboy, in that province, from which the Earl undertook to dislodge him, on condition that Elizabeth would grant to the conquerors and their commander, one half of the subdued district, for the defence of which, he stipulated to maintain, at his own charge for two years, two hundred horse and four hundred foot; and to furnish himself with the means, he borrowed ten thousand pounds of the Queen on mortgage of his estates in Essex." 13

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 25

    As the companion tells it

    In the town of Ardee, in 1572, Sir William Fitzwilliam, Lord Deputy of Ireland, mustered the County of Louth and found what he called "such a silly showe of Battons" that he could only pray God keep him from needing to hazard the Queen's honour and state upon them. He wrote that he had been urged to place Englishmen in the waste countries, and that he had never disliked Mr. Smithe's enterprise, but rather allowed of it, so it were indeed and thoroughly carried out. After the mustering at Ardee he declared he would go to Meath the next day, and prayed God send him a sight of better comfort there. The following year, 1573, the Earl of Essex sailed for Ireland, which was then the only scene of military operations, with a fierce insurrection reigning particularly in Ulster. Essex prevailed on Queen Elizabeth to let him volunteer his services under a singular agreement. Brian Mac Phelim, called the great O'Neil, a powerful chief, had possessed himself of the most part of the district of Clanhughboy in that province. The Earl undertook to dislodge him on condition that Elizabeth grant to the conquerors and their commander one half of the subdued district. For its defence he stipulated to maintain, at his own charge for two years, 200 horse and 400 foot. To furnish himself with the means, he borrowed 10,000 pounds of the Queen on mortgage of his estates in Essex.

41. Inishkeen lands claimed as church property of the Primate

    Inishkeen · town · Monaghan · 1591–1606

    The lands of Iniskene were disputed between Ever McCowle, who claimed they belonged to the Earl of Essex, and the Primate of Armagh. Jobson's Map of 1591 marked them as 'Church land' and Cecil noted they belonged to the Primate of Armagh.

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    their learned councell should be called before us that we should reexamine that cause, and doe them as to right and justice should appertaine, takinge order that in the mean tyme, Ever Mc Cowle might not be dispossessed or damnified. These Ires being delivered unto us, by Ever Mc Cowle in the beginninge of Julii last, we could not forbeare to reprove him for sendinge to yr lis an untrue information that those lands of Iniskene doe belonge to the Earle of Essex, when he was disproved by the Earle of Tyrone then present in the Councell Chamber, and many others, wdl testified that those lands of right doe ptaine to the Prymate,13 but yet for Ever Mc Cowle his better satisfaction wee tooke this order w"1 his owne consent, that the nowe Primate of Armaghe 14 and his tennant Garney should both appere at the Generall Sessions in that moneth to be houlden at Monaghan, for the tryall of the matter before the Lo: cheafe Justice and his Ma"es attorney appointed Justices of that Circuit, at wch Sessions also we the Deputie, Chauncellor, Cheefe Justice, Sir Oliver Lambert, & Sir Gerrott Moorr weare present concerning the deuision of that Countie. Accordinglie the Lo: Prymate and his tenante attended the said Sessions from the beginninge to th'ende, and the Prymate brought thether his auncient Roules and evidences for those lands of Iniskyne, but Ever Mc Cowle never once moved the matter, either to the Judges, or to me the Deputie, although he did knowe the Prymate traveled thither wth his learned Councell for none other cause, and often tymes urged Ever to bring the matter in question. And this in truth was the cause which moved us, (Ever Mc Culla beinge convicted before us of his untrue information, and never speakinge of the matter at the Sessions,) to forbeare to trble yr Us with or answere to yr lis Ires of the 20th of Maii 1606. Touchinge the forme and proceedinge in that cause, used first by the Barrons, and afterwards in the Chauncery, the said Barrons doe affyrme that Ever Mc Cowle was called and acquainted wth Garney 's complaint, and that it was deposed before them, that Garneys was quietlie possessed of those lands before the rebellion, and that the whole countrie testified the lands of Iniskyne to belong to the Prymate, upon wch they were induced to establishe Garney 's possession, And whether I the Chauncellor had good reason to

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 58

    As the companion tells it

    The town of Inishkeen was once disputed land. In 1591, Jobson's Map marked these lands as church land, and Cecil noted they belonged to the Primate of Armagh. Ever McCowle claimed they belonged to the Earl of Essex. He sent that information to the authorities. The Earl of Tyrone was present in the Council Chamber and disproved him. Many others testified that those lands of right belonged to the Primate. For Ever McCowle's satisfaction, an order was made with his own consent. The Primate of Armagh and his tenant Garney would both appear at the General Sessions held at Monaghan, for trial of the matter before the Lord Chief Justice and His Majesty's attorney, appointed Justices of that Circuit. The Deputy, Chancellor, Chief Justice, Sir Oliver Lambert, and Sir Gerrott Moorr were also present, concerning the division of that county. The Lord Primate and his tenant attended the Sessions from beginning to end. The Primate brought his ancient rolls and evidences for those lands. But Ever McCowle never once moved the matter, either to the Judges or to the Deputy, though he knew the Primate traveled there with his learned counsel for no other cause. He was often urged to bring the matter in question and never did. This was what moved them to forbear answering letters of the 20th of May 1606. Ever McCowle had been convicted of his untrue information and never spoke of the matter at the Sessions. The Barons affirmed that Ever McCowle was called and acquainted with Garney's complaint. It was deposed before them that Garney was quietly possessed of those lands before the rebellion, and that the whole country testified the lands belonged to the Primate. Upon this they established Garney's possession.

42. John Davison, resident incumbent of Killanny and Inishkeene, 1622

    Inishkeen · town · Monaghan · 1622

    In 1622 John Davison, a Master of Arts and preacher, was incumbent of both Killanny and Inishkeene. He was resident at Inishkeene, a rarity in those times, despite the lack of a house or glebe and a ruinous church, having built his own house on temporal lands.

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    In 1622, John Davison, " a Mr of Arts 8$ a Preacher" was the Incumbent of this parish, and also of that of Inishkeene.47 The value was £12. He was, it appears [a rare thing in those times], resident at the latter place, although there was no house or glebe, and the church was ruinous ; he had, however, " a house of his own building on temporall lands." In 1634, the vicarage of Killanny was worth £40 per annum.48 The following is a list of the Incumbents.

    Admission. Killanny a Rectory. Book. Page.

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 93

    As the companion tells it

    The road takes you through or near Inishkeen. In 1622, John Davison was incumbent of this parish and also of Killanny. He was "a Mr of Arts & a Preacher." The living was worth £12. It was a rare thing in those times, but he was resident, though there was no house and no glebe, and the church was ruinous. He had built his own house on temporal lands. By 1634, the vicarage of Killanny alone was worth £40 per annum.

43. MacMahon dies at Galway, 1589

    Galway · city · Galway · 1589

    Fitzwilliam reports that while he was at Galway, MacMahon—who had surrendered and held the country by Irish patents from the Queen—died, setting off a succession dispute among his brethren.

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    " maie it please yor hor while I was at Galway, Mac Mahon who had surrendred and held that cuntrey by her Maty Ires patents died, his two brethren Hughe Roe, and Brian Mc Mahon being in remainder after him, and at my return to Dublin I found Hughe Roe there to crave the benefit of her Mat* said Ires patents (his other brother being prisoner in the Castle), and wthin fewe daies after I pcured 3 other (eche of wch loked to have bene Mc Mahon) to come thithr, having good hope to haue devided the whole among those fower, wch wolde haue bene the only best (course) for her Ma's service and the quiet of the bordres, I thought at the first that he who held by her MatyB Ires patents wolde have bene the hardliest drawen to that devision, but upon matter wch I and the Councell charged against him, don in his brothers time, wee made him see, or at least to think that his state was worst, wherupon he grewe to be contented wth that course, wch notwithstanding althoughe we spent some time among them, the rest wolde euery of them be Mc Mahon, or rest as they did; wherupon finding them so obstinat, and blind from the sight of their owne good, I settled him, that held as before ; and have sent wth him upon his sute 400 footemen and 40 horse for his assistance for a time by reason that one of the other called Bryan Mc Hughe oge, had made him self Mc Mahon by the Custome of the Cuntry, and held togethr 5, or 600, hired men for his strength." 33

    The next step taken by Fitzwilliam was the imprisonment of Hugh Roe, on a charge of treason, thus noticed in a letter from the Lords of the Council in England to his Lordship, from the Court, November 19, 1589-

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 43

    As the companion tells it

    Galway, in 1589. Fitzwilliam reports that while he was at Galway, MacMahon died. This MacMahon had surrendered and held the country by Irish patents from the Queen. His two brethren, Hugh Roe and Brian MacMahon, were in remainder after him. When Fitzwilliam returned to Dublin, he found Hugh Roe already there, seeking the benefit of the Queen's patents. The other brother was a prisoner in the Castle. Within a few days, Fitzwilliam procured three others to come to Dublin, each of whom looked to have been MacMahon. His hope was to divide the whole among those four, which he believed would have been the best course for her Majesty's service and the quiet of the borders. He thought at first that the one who held by the Irish patents would be the hardest to draw to that division. But upon matters which Fitzwilliam and the Council charged against him, done in his brother's time, they made him see, or at least think, that his state was worst. Whereupon he grew content with that course. Yet although they spent time among them, the rest would every one of them be MacMahon, or rest as they did. Finding them so obstinate, and as he says, blind from the sight of their own good, Fitzwilliam settled the one who held as before. He sent with him, upon his suit, 400 footmen and 40 horse for his assistance, because one of the others, called Bryan MacHugh Oge, had made himself MacMahon by the custom of the country, and held together 500 or 600 hired men for his strength. The next step Fitzwilliam took was the imprisonment of Hugh Roe, on a charge of treason. This was noticed in a letter from the Lords of the Council in England to Fitzwilliam, dated November 19, 1589.

44. MacMahon's attack on soldiers in Monaghan, 1593

    Monaghan · town · Monaghan · 1593

    In 1593, Brian MacMahon of Dartree and the sons of Emer of Farney made an unexpected attack on a band of English soldiers stationed in Monaghan, killing the greater part of them. A proclamation was subsequently issued denouncing the perpetrators as traitors.

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    — " 1593, Brian [son of Hugh Oge, son of Hugh, son of John Boy Mac Mahon of Dartree of Oriell,] and the sons of Emer, son of Cooley, of Farney, together with several other chiefs, kept up a plundering warfare on the English this year, These Oriellans made an unexpected attack on a band of [English] Soldiers that were in Monaghan, & killed the greater part of them, in consequence of which a Proclamation was issued in all the great towns of Ireland denouncing those parties, and their adhaerents as traitors."

    63 "A0, xxxvi. Eliz:" 1594. "a grant to Jo: Talbott in Ireland for allowance of 22 footemen for defence of Ferney, belonging to the E. of Essex." Cotton MSS. Titus, ex. Fo. 96.

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 53

    As the companion tells it

    In 1593, the town of Monaghan saw a sudden and bloody act. Brian MacMahon of Dartree, together with the sons of Emer of Farney and several other chiefs, had been waging a plundering warfare on the English that year. These men of Oriell made an unexpected attack on a band of English soldiers stationed in Monaghan and killed the greater part of them. Afterward, a proclamation was issued in all the great towns of Ireland, denouncing those parties and their adherents as traitors.

45. Mac Mahon tribe migration names Mourne, County Down

    near Mourne · barony · Down

    A tribe of the Mac Mahons from Crioch Mughdhorna in Monaghan emigrated to the Barony of Mourne in County Down during the time of Niall the oppressive, transferring the name of their former territory to their new home.

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    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.

    2 See Colgan's Acta Sanctorum, 424. "De S. Victore Epis. Domnacensi. Floruit sub sseculi quinti medium. Natalis 28 Feb."

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 81

    As the companion tells it

    As you travel through the barony of Mourne, you are passing through a name that travelled here from Monaghan. The original Sliabh Mudhorn was not these mountains in Down at all, but a range of heights running through the Barony of Cremourne in County Monaghan, to the north of Farney. The inhabitants of Dartree could never have driven their cattle this far. Adamnan called the old territory provincia Mugdornorum, and the author of the Tripartite Life of Saint Patrick called it regio Mugdornorum. Both names translate the Irish Crioch Mughdhorna, meaning the Country of the Mughdorni. They were the 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. They were inhabitants of Crioch Mughdhorna in Monaghan who emigrated to Down in the time of Niall the oppressive, the son of Hugh, son of Magnus Mac Mahon, and transferred the name of their former territory to their new home.

46. Magenis's Castle of Loughbrickland stormed

    near Loughbrickland · village · Down

    English forces made a descent on Magenis, broke his Castle of Loch-Brierinn, killed the Constable of his Gallowglasses, and almost all the defenders. This was part of widespread plundering across the plain of Armagh by the Earl of Ormond and the English of Meath.

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    the Earl of Ormond, which greatly strengthened the English power ; great plunderings and preyings were committed by the Earl and his Englishmen, and the English of Meath, in Machaire-Arda-Macha [the plain of Armagh], and in Machaire-Mucnamha [the plain of Mucno] ; they also made a descent on Magenis, broke his Castle of Loch-Brier inn,1 killed the Constable of his Gallowglasses, and almost all the defenders of the Castle. War and general disturbance prevailed over the entire province of Ulster on that occasion, on account of the conduct of the English.

    " The Chiefs of the Province, headed by O'Neill, and O'Donnell, and Owen O'Neill, collected together to oppose the English, but many gentlemen of the province went over to the ranks of the English in that war, such as Mac- O'Neill-boy [Chief of Claneboy], O'Hanlon, and Magnus Mac Mahon, Magenis was driven out of his country by Mac O'Neill-boy, and the English, and was forced to take shelter among the Irish of the Province."

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 13

    As the companion tells it

    The road brings you near Loughbrickland, in Down. English forces under the Earl of Ormond, joined by the English of Meath, carried out great plunderings across the plain of Armagh and the plain of Mucno. They made a descent on Magenis and broke his Castle of Loch-Brierinn. They killed the Constable of his Gallowglasses and almost all the defenders of the castle. War and general disturbance prevailed over the entire province of Ulster on that occasion, on account of the conduct of the English. The chiefs of the province, headed by O'Neill, O'Donnell, and Owen O'Neill, collected together to oppose the English. But many gentlemen of the province went over to the ranks of the English in that war, among them Mac O'Neill-boy, Chief of Claneboy, O'Hanlon, and Magnus MacMahon. Magenis was driven out of his country by Mac O'Neill-boy and the English, and was forced to take shelter among the Irish of the province.

47. Roger Gernon granted Donaghmoyne for service at Dundalk

    Donaghmoyne · townland · Monaghan · 1371–1376

    In the forty-fifth year of Edward III, Roger Gernon of Gernonstown was granted the Manor of Donaghmoyne and the lands of Farney for his services in the battle of Dundalk against Edward Bruce. He was required to build a competent castle within twenty years for the restraint of enemies and rebels, and could only underlet to English tenants.

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    eleventh of Edward II. (Oct. 8, 1317), " The king pardons Walter de Cusack 78h. and 14|d. arrears due at the time that he held the Manors of Atherdee, Maundevileston and Donaghmoyn of the king."64 In the sixth of Edward III. the King's Justice in Ireland was commanded to enquire on oath as to the value and extent of the lands of Donaghmoyn, then wasted and destroyed by the Irish, and to commit the same to John de Clinton for term of his life.65 This grant was confirmed in the twelfth of the same reign, when the king regranted to John de Clinton all the lands and tenements of Donaghmoyn with the appurtenances in the County of Louth, to be held for the term of his life at the rent of four pounds a year.66 Again, in the fifteenth of Edward III. we find a further confirmation of the same premises, to Clinton, and time given by the Crown, for the payment of the arrears amounting to 48 marks, in consideration of the rebellious state of the country.67 How long the Manor of Donaghmoyne remained in the possession of John de Clinton is uncertain ; it appears, however, in the fortyfifth of Edward III. it was again at the disposal of the Crown, and conferred with other extensive manors on Roger Gernon, of Gernons-town, for his services in the battle of Dundalk against Edward Bruce. The lands granted are described as " the Manor of Donaghmoyn with its appurtenances together with the lands of ffermoy, with its appurtenances, then in the hands of Irish rebels, to be held for ever at the annual rent for the first twenty years of one red rose, to be delivered at the feast of the Nativity of St. John the Baptist, and after the completion of that period, at the rent of six shillings and eight pence to be paid into the exchequer in Dublin, at the feasts of Easter and St. Michael, with licence for underletting to English tenants, and with special provision that the said Roger Gernon shall within the said twenty years construct and build a competent castle (fortilicium), for the restraint of the enemies and rebels of those territories, as is befitting." [This grant is under the test, of William de Wyndesore at Kildare, the 1st of Feby. 45th of Edward III. confirmed by the king himself at Westminster, Sept. 12, 50th Edward III.] 68

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 10

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere close to Donaghmoyne, a grant of land was made in the forty-fifth year of Edward the Third, to a man called Roger Gernon of Gernonstown, for his services in the battle of Dundalk against Edward Bruce. The lands were described as the Manor of Donaghmoyn with its appurtenances, together with the lands of ffermoy, then in the hands of Irish rebels. Before Roger Gernon, these lands had passed through other hands. Walter de Cusack had held the manors and was pardoned arrears in the eleventh of Edward the Second. Then the king's justice in Ireland was commanded to enquire on oath as to the value and extent of the lands of Donaghmoyn, then wasted and destroyed by the Irish, and to commit the same to John de Clinton for term of his life. Clinton held them at a rent of four pounds a year, and arrears of 48 marks were given time for payment because of the rebellious state of the country. By the forty-fifth of Edward the Third, the manor was again at the disposal of the Crown. The grant to Roger Gernon was to be held forever at the annual rent for the first twenty years of one red rose, to be delivered at the feast of the Nativity of Saint John the Baptist. After those twenty years, the rent was six shillings and eight pence, paid into the exchequer in Dublin at the feasts of Easter and Saint Michael. He had licence for underletting to English tenants, and a special provision that he should within those twenty years construct and build a competent castle for the restraint of the enemies and rebels of those territories. The grant was made under the test of William de Wyndesore at Kildare, the first of February, and confirmed by the king himself at Westminster on the twelfth of September, in the fiftieth year of Edward the Third.

48. Roger Pipard founds Hospital at Ardee

    Ardee · town · Louth · 1207

    Roger Pipard founded the Hospital of St. John the Baptist at Ardee in 1207 and endowed it with the Church of the blessed Mary of Ardee, as well as the churches of Stackallen and Donenathmain and their associated lands. Edward III later confirmed this charter at Westminster.

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    It appears by a Charter granted to the Hospital of St. John the Baptist, at Atherdee, or Ardee, by Roger Pipard the founder, in 1 207, that the new Hospital was endowed with the Church of the blessed Mary of Atherdee, with all chapels, lands, possessions, and ecclesiastical benefices belonging to the said church, and also with the Church of Stackillen6 and the Church of Donenathmain with all chapels, lands, rents and possessions, belonging to the said churches, & the right of patronage of all ecclesiastical benefices.'" 7 This Charter was confirmed by Edward III. at Westminster, the 28th day of May, in the fourteenth year of his reign.T

    The connexion of part of the Church lands in Farney with this Hospital has ever since continued, other lands in the Barony appear to have been from a very early period the property of the Sees of Armagh and Clogher, while the Rectorial Tithes generally were shared between the ecclesiastical foundations of Louth and St. John's at Ardee. But before we proceed with the few notices which have been preserved relating to the five parishes into which the district of Farney is divided, it will be proper to make mention

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 83

    As the companion tells it

    Ardee was the place Roger Pipard chose for a new hospital. In 1207 he founded the Hospital of St. John the Baptist here, and endowed it well. He gave it the Church of the Blessed Mary of Ardee, with all its chapels, lands, possessions, and ecclesiastical benefices. He added the Church of Stackillen and the Church of Donenathmain, again with all their chapels, lands, rents, and possessions, and the right of patronage over all ecclesiastical benefices belonging to those churches. King Edward III later confirmed this charter at Westminster, on the 28th of May, in the fourteenth year of his reign. The connection between part of the church lands in Farney and this hospital has continued ever since. Other lands in the barony had belonged from an early period to the Sees of Armagh and Clogher, while the rectorial tithes were generally shared between the ecclesiastical foundations of Louth and St. John's at Ardee.

49. Rory Mc Hugh Oge McMahon killed at Mucknoe

    Muckno · parish · Monaghan · 1594

    Sir Henry Duke led an expedition against Rory Mc Hugh Oge McMahon, killing him at Mucknoe along with sixteen of his men. Mr. Talbott distinguished himself in the fighting, engaging so deeply that his staff was cut in three places and his horse was sorely cut by a sword.

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    Sir Henry Duke to the Lord Deputy [Fitzwilliam], March 18, 1593-4, detailing his expedition against Rory Mc Hugh Oge Mc Mahon, whom he killed at Mucknoe with sixteen of his men.

    — " I assure yr honr that both horsemen & footmen dischardged the ptes of tall men, and Mr. Talbott not inferior to any for valor for he ingadged himself so farre amongst them, as his staff cut in three places, and his horse sore cut with a sworde above the ey." — 60

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 52

    As the companion tells it

    In 1594, Sir Henry Duke led an expedition through this parish of Muckno against Rory Mc Hugh Oge McMahon. He killed McMahon at Mucknoe, along with sixteen of his men. In the fighting, Mr. Talbott distinguished himself. He pressed so far into the enemy that his staff was cut in three places, and his horse was sorely cut with a sword above the eye. Sir Henry reported that both horsemen and footmen, in his words, "dischardged the ptes of tall men."

50. Undertakers in Farney bound to build English-style houses

    Farney · barony · Monaghan · 1618

    After 1618, the Barony of Farney was subdivided and leased to several undertakers, including Coll Mc Bryan of Leigue, County Monaghan. They were contractually bound to build substantial stone or brick houses with chimneys and windows in the English manner.

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    Numerous leases granted by Lord Essex during the reign of Charles I. attest the improving state of Farney prior to the rebellion of 1641. Brian Mc Ever Mc Mahon, who had had a lease of the whole estate granted to him some months previous, died in 1618 ; from that time the Barony was no longer farmed by one proprietor, but subdivided into several large portions, and leased to " George Lord Bishoppe of Cloyne,23 Edward Maye of Dublyn gentleman, Coll Mc Bryan of Leigh (Leigue) in the County of Monaghan Esquier," (son of Brian Mc Ever Mc Mahon,) and other undertakers, who were in all cases bound to build, " upon some convenient place of the lands hereby demised, one good stronge and substantyal house of stone or bricke to be layed wth lyme and sand wth chymneyes and Wyndowes after the English manner fytt for habitacon, and to be covered w* slate or tyle." They were

    52 Caliver, a piece so called from the calibre being according to a standard regulation ; it was lighter than the unwieldy musket.

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 62

    As the companion tells it

    In 1618, Brian Mc Ever Mc McMahon died. He had held a lease of the whole estate of Farney, granted to him only months before. After his death, the barony was no longer held by one proprietor. It was subdivided into several large portions and leased to undertakers, among them George Lord Bishoppe of Cloyne, Edward Maye of Dublin gentleman, and Coll Mc Bryan of Leigue in County Monaghan, who was Brian Mc Ever Mc McMahon's own son. Each of these undertakers was bound by contract to build, in the words of the record, "one good stronge and substantyal house of stone or bricke to be layed wth lyme and sand wth chymneyes and Wyndowes after the English manner fytt for habitacon, and to be covered w* slate or tyle." Leases granted by Lord Essex during the reign of Charles I show the barony was improving before the rebellion of 1641.

51. Brian Mc Mahon's £1500 lease of Farney

    Farney · barony · Monaghan · 1618

    In 1618, Brian Mc Ever Mc Cowle Mc Mahon, son of the celebrated Ever Mc Cooley Mc Mahon, undertook to farm the Barony of Farney for one year at the high rent of £1500. The barony had more than trebled in value since the accession of James I.

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    The peaceful times which followed the accession of James I. were so favourable to the improvement of Ireland, that in the year 1618, the Barony of Farney had more than trebled in value ; Brian, son of the celebrated Ever Mc Cooley Mc Mahon [who died the preceding year], having undertaken to farm it for one year at the high rent of £1500.17 Three years afterwards the Earl of Essex received a regrant from the Crown of the Manor of Farney, dated at Westminster the 28th day of May, 18th James I. (1621.) Instead of the rent of one horse, or £13, 6, 8, it was in future to be held at the rent of £26, 6, 8, Irish, payable at the feast of St. Michael, and at Easter. Island Magfee or Mc Guire's Island is not mentioned in the confirmation of James I. In other respects it is nearly a copy of Queen Elizabeth's original grant ; that property had been in fact sold by the Earl to Sir Arthur Chichester, by deed dated February 20, 7th James I. (1610) who, as it appears from the following note to Sir Robert Cecil from " Knockfergus, April 6, 1601," had long had his eye on this rich promontory, though he affects to call it " a t hinge of small valeur." " Att my last beinge in Englande, I dealte wth one Charles Ogle servaunte to the Earle of Essexe, for a peece of land

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 60

    As the companion tells it

    The road takes you through or near the barony of Farney in Monaghan. In 1618 this whole territory had more than trebled in value since the accession of James I, so favourable were the peaceful times that followed his coming to the throne. Brian Mc Ever Mc Cowle Mc Mahon, son of the celebrated Ever Mc Cooley Mc Mahon, who had died the preceding year, undertook to farm the barony for one year at the high rent of 1500 pounds. That figure alone tells you what Farney was worth, and how much had changed in a generation. Three years afterwards, the Earl of Essex received a regrant from the Crown of the Manor of Farney, dated at Westminster the 28th day of May 1621. The old rent of one horse, or 13 pounds, 6 shillings and 8 pence, was replaced by a rent of 26 pounds, 6 shillings and 8 pence Irish, payable at the feast of St. Michael and at Easter. Island Magfee, or Mc Guire's Island, is not mentioned in the confirmation of James I. In other respects it is nearly a copy of Queen Elizabeth's original grant. That property had in fact been sold by the Earl to Sir Arthur Chichester, by deed dated the 20th of February 1610, who had long had his eye on this rich promontory, though he called it, in a note to Sir Robert Cecil from Carrickfergus, dated the 6th of April 1601,

52. Capture of Garret Fleming's Castle on the Lagan

    Lagan · townland · Monaghan · 1643

    During the July 1643 campaign against rebel-held castles, Sir Henry Tichborne sent a party which captured a castle defending a pass on the Lagan (Logan) Water, positioned between Tichborne's forces and Colonel Monck's troops at Ballyhoe. The castle was formerly known as Garret Fleming's Castle.

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    " In July," (1643) he says, " Colonel Jones sent me two Culverins with a Party of Foot from Dublin, to strengthen those I could conveniently draw from Drogheda and the Garrisons about me, that I might be enabled to go before Ballyhoe and other Holds and Castles of the Rebels, which much annoyed our Frontiers ; and Colonel Monck drew forth a Party out of Dundalk, and sat down on the other side of Ballyhoe, in the County of Monaghan. The next morning after my Arrival I sent forth a Party, and took in a Castle 33 that defended a Pass on Logan Water, between Colonel

    31 <:The History of the Irish Rebellion," printed by Henry Brome, London, 1680, page 102. 3i Formerly called Garret Fleming's Castle.

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere close to Lagan, in July 1643, Sir Henry Tichborne was moving against rebel-held castles that were troubling the frontiers. Colonel Jones sent him two culverins and a party of foot from Dublin, adding to men drawn from Drogheda and the garrisons nearby. Colonel Monck brought a party out of Dundalk and sat down on the other side of Ballyhoe, in County Monaghan. The morning after Tichborne arrived, he sent a party and took in a castle defending a pass on the Logan Water, between his forces and Colonel Monck's troops. That castle was formerly known as Garret Fleming's Castle.

53. Ever McMahon described as governor who brought Farney to civility

    Farney · barony · Monaghan · 1593

    In a dispatch dated March 1593, the Lord Deputy and Council commended Ever McMahon as the principal gentleman of County Monaghan who had taken government of the territory of Farney since his father's death. He was credited with being the only man to reduce that country to civility, and was said to have deserved special favour.

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    With the hope of influencing the Lord Treasurer in his favour, Ever Mc Mahon procured letters of recommendation from the Lord Deputy53 and Council, and his neighbors of the Pale. Pie is styled in the dispatch of the former, dated from Dublin, the 5th of January, 1592-3, "a principall gentleman of the County of Monochan attending the Court in England, his children civilly brought up, and have th'englishe languadge." The letter is signed by " The Lord Viscount Gormanston, The Baron of Louthe, and Sir John Bellewe Knt," and bears date the 28th of March, 1593,5* it mentions him with commendation, as one " who took government of the territory of Eerney since his father's death, and still hath been the only man to reduce that Country to Civility, and therefore in our judgements hath deserved special favor."52

    50 Roger Wilbraham, Esq. Solicitor General for Ireland, appointed 1586, revoked 1603.

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 50

54. Island Magee laid waste by rebellion

    near Island Magee · parish · Antrim · 1599

    By 1599, during the height of Tyrone's rebellion, the Island of Magee—belonging to the Earl of Essex—was described as altogether waste. Mac Mahon held Monaghan and Ever Mc Cooley held Farney, together commanding 500 foot and 160 horse.

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    had reached so formidable a height, that both the Queen and her ministers were alarmed, and determined to send a greater force than had ever landed in Ireland, to quell the insurrection, which had then extended itself throughout nearly the whole of the kingdom ; at that period, to revert to our more immediate subject, " The Island of Magee, belonging to the Earl of Essex, was altogether waste, Mac Mahon in Monaghan, and Ever Mc Cooley in the Ferney, and others of that name in Clankarvil, had 500 foot and 160 horse." 6i

    Robert, Earl of Essex, was selected by Elizabeth, or rather appointed himself, General of the Irish Expedition, and thus " at once," adds Cox, " gratified his own ambition, and his enemies' malicious designs, for they desired nothing more than his absence from court." He left London the end of the month of March, 1599 ; the parish register of Tamworth, in the county of Warwick, contains the following note of his progress. " 1598-9. Mem: that the 3d day of this April, Robert Earl of Essex went from Drayton Basset towards Ireland, with an hoste of men, to make warre against the Earl of Tyroone an Irishman." Upon Essex's arrival in Ireland,65 however, instead of carrying into effect this principal object of his mission, and proceeding immediately northwards,66 he thought proper to act contrary to his instructions and marched into Munster, and it was not until the 28th of August, that he left Dublin on his journey to the north. The State Paper Office has preserved the following characteristic note, written by his Lordship on the eve of this memorable expedition.

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 53

    As the companion tells it

    The parish of Island Magee, in Antrim, was altogether waste by 1599. These were the years of Tyrone's rebellion, and the insurrection had spread through nearly the whole kingdom. The Island of Magee belonged to the Earl of Essex, and a record of the time states plainly that it was altogether waste. Mac Mahon held Monaghan, and Ever Mc Cooley held Farney, and others of that name in Clankarvil, and together they had 500 foot and 160 horse. The rebellion had reached such a height that Queen Elizabeth and her ministers were alarmed and determined to send a greater force than had ever landed in Ireland. Robert, Earl of Essex, was selected as general of the Irish expedition, or rather appointed himself, as Cox puts it, gratifying his own ambition and his enemies' malicious designs, for they desired nothing more than his absence from court. He left London at the end of March 1599. The parish register of Tamworth, in Warwick, notes his progress, saying the 3rd day of April, Robert Earl of Essex went from Drayton Basset towards Ireland, with an hoste of men, to make warre against the Earl of Tyroone an Irishman. Upon arriving in Ireland, instead of proceeding northwards as his instructions directed, he marched into Munster, and it was not until the 28th of August that he left Dublin on his journey to the north.

55. Legal dispute over Ineskyne lands in Monaghan

    Inishkeen · town · Monaghan · 1607

    In 1607, a dispatch to the Privy Council described how Henry Garney, lessee of lands called Ineskyne from the Primate of Armagh, had been granted possession by assize justices, overriding Ever Mc Cowle's tenure as farmer of the Earl of Essex's lands of Farny and Clancarroll in County Monaghan.

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    " It pleased yor Us by yor Ires bearinge date on the 20th of Maii 1606 wcil arryved here on the 4th of Julii, upon information sent unto you from Ever Mc Cowle tenant, and ffarmer to or very good Lo : Th'earle of Essex of the Barrony of Downamayne, contayninge the lands of Farny and Clancarroell in the Countie of Monaghan to accquainte us wth the said information, the substance whereof was this viz : that the two Barrons of his Ma"es Excheqr named Oglethorpe and Ellyott,12 beinge Justices of Assize in that Countie upon a byll pferred to them in theire circuite by one Henry Garney lessee of certaine lands in that countie called Ineskyne from the prymate of Armaghe, did order the possession of the said lands unto the said Garney, wth a direction to the Sheriff of that Countie to contynnue him in the possession thereof, wch order of the said Barrones was afterwards confirmed in the Chauncery heere ; and an Injunction was directed from the Chauncellr heere to Ever Mc Cowle to pmitt the said Garney to enioye his possession in those lands to the great preiudice of the Earle of Essex, his right and tytle, being his Maties ffee farmor by Ires patents of those two Countries of farny and Clancarroll, wthout callinge the said Ever to answer the matter at the assize, or acquaintinge him there wth as yr lis have byne informed. And therefore yr lips by yr said Ires gave expresse direction that both pties with

    12 Robert Oglethorpe of Grays' Inn, and John Elliott.

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 57

    As the companion tells it

    Inishkeen in Monaghan was the subject of a legal struggle that reached the Privy Council in 1607. The dispute centred on lands called Ineskyne, leased from the Primate of Armagh by one Henry Garney. Ever Mc Cowle was tenant and farmer to the Earl of Essex, holding the Barony of Downamayne, which contained the lands of Farny and Clancarroll in County Monaghan. The Earl's title came from letters patent as the King's fee farmer for those two countries. The trouble began when two Barons of the Exchequer, Oglethorpe and Ellyott, sitting as Justices of Assize in the county, were presented with a bill by Henry Garney during their circuit. The Barons ordered possession of the Ineskyne lands to Garney, with a direction to the Sheriff of the county to continue him in that possession. This order was afterwards confirmed in the Chancery in Dublin, and an injunction was directed from the Chancellor to Ever Mc Cowle, commanding him to permit Garney to enjoy possession of the lands. All of this was done, it was said, to the great prejudice of the Earl of Essex and his right and title, and without ever calling Ever Mc Cowle to answer the matter at the assize or acquainting him with it. The Privy Council, informed of this, gave express direction that both parties should appear.

56. Lisanisk residence of Ever Mac Mahon and Edward Gibson

    Lisanisk · townland · Monaghan

    On an artificial island or crannog in the lake at Lisanisk was the residence of Ever Mac Mahon during the reigns of Elizabeth and James I. Around 1715, Joseph Clement, Esq. built a house there, which became the seat of Edward Gibson, Esq.

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    Lisanisk, ICior at) uij5e, Fort of the Water. Here, on an artificial Island or Crannogo in the lake, was the residence of Ever Mac Mahon in the reigns of Elizabeth and James I. (see page 94.) About 1715, Joseph Clement, Esq. built a house here, now the seat of Edward Gibson, Esq.

    Trostan, Xtiotxat), This is the common Irish word for a Pilgrims Staff, but it is applied to hills of a certain form.

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 107

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere close to Lisanisk, the name means Fort of the Water. On an artificial island in the lake, Ever Mac Mahon had his residence during the reigns of Elizabeth and James the First. Around 1715, Joseph Clement built a house on that same spot. That house became the seat of Edward Gibson.

57. Redmond Mac Mahon dies in captivity in Drogheda

    Drogheda · town · Louth · 1484

    Redmond Mac Mahon, a chief involved in ongoing conflicts in the territory, died while being held in captivity in Drogheda in 1484. The following year, Hugh Oge was inaugurated as Lord of Oriel.

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    Redmond Mac Mahon, as the four Masters relate, died in captivity in Drogheda, in 1484, and the following year Hugh Oge, son of Hugh Roe, (grand) son of Ardgal Mac Mahon, was inaugurated Lord of Oriell.

    The various events which happened in Mac Mahon's country and its neighbourhood during the rule of this chief will be best illustrated from the following extracts from the annals of the time.

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 15

    As the companion tells it

    Drogheda holds an old story. In 1484, Redmond Mac Mahon died here, in captivity. He was a chief caught up in the conflicts of his territory. The following year, Hugh Oge, son of Hugh Roe, grandson of Ardgal Mac Mahon, was inaugurated Lord of Oriel. The annals of the time tell of the events that shaped Mac Mahon's country and its neighbourhood during his rule.

58. Ross Mac Mahon brought to Armagh and recognised as chief, 1579

    near Armagh · town · Armagh · 1579

    Tirlough Lenneragh O'Neil brought Ross Mac Mahon, son of the recently deceased chief, to Sir William Drury at Armagh. Drury established Ross in his father's place as chief of the Mac Mahons, noting that the country had already elected him according to their custom.

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    " He [Tirlough Lenneragh O'Neil], brought unto me [to Armagh,] also Rosse Buy Mc Mahowne the sone of the last Mc Mahowne, that dyed these last holy-day es : whome at his humble suite, because the young fellowe hath his daughter to wyfe, and had put himself and all his lands by his submission into my hands, to be disposed of as I list, and that the Baron hath undertaken for his good and duetifull behavior I was content to establishe in his fathers place, the rather for that the Countrey had before elected him according to their custome and maner." 10

    These customs are alluded to by the poet Spencer in his interesting " View of the State of Ireland," he says,

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 35

    As the companion tells it

    In 1579, Armagh saw a brief transfer of power. Tirlough Lenneragh O'Neil brought Ross MacMahon here to Sir William Drury. Ross was the son of the last MacMahon chief, who had died that past holiday. At O'Neil's humble request, Drury established Ross in his father's place as chief of the MacMahons. Ross had married O'Neil's daughter, and had put himself and all his lands by submission into Drury's hands, to be disposed of as Drury wished. The Baron had undertaken to guarantee Ross's good and dutiful behavior. Drury was content to establish him, all the more because the country had already elected him, in Drury's words,

59. Sir John Perrot's camp at Dunluce, 1584

    Dunluce · townland · Antrim · 1584

    Sir John Perrot, Lord Deputy of Ireland, established a camp at Dunluce during his expedition into Ulster in September 1584, from where he wrote to the Lords of the Council reporting the success of his dealings with the Ulster chiefs.

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    of Ireland, the government of Sir John Perrot, appointed Lord Deputy in 1584. Soon after he received the sword, he undertook a journey into Ulster ; absolutely necessary indeed for the settlement of that distracted province; " From the Camp at Dunluse, 15 Sepr 1584;" Sir John communicates in the following terms to the Lords of the Council, the success which had attended his expedition.

    — " While I staied at the Newry there came thither unto me upon my Ires of comaundm1 w^out ptection or pardon Sr Hugh Magnisse, Mc Mahon, Ohanlon, Tirlagh Brasilagh, and the Captains of the ffues, ffer7iy, Dartrie, Killmarlin, and Kilultagh, and all those of Clandeboyes side, wth whome I tooke ordre to assure the borders, having apointed upon my return back to receive their pledgs." 15

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 38

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere close to Dunluce, Sir John Perrot established a camp in September 1584. He had been appointed Lord Deputy of Ireland that same year, and soon after receiving the sword he undertook a journey into Ulster, which he considered absolutely necessary for the settlement of that distracted province. From the camp at Dunluce, on the 15th of September 1584, he wrote to the Lords of the Council to report the success of his expedition. He told them that while he stayed at Newry, there came to him upon his command, without protection or pardon, Sir Hugh Magnisse, Mc Mahon, Ohanlon, Tirlagh Brasilagh, and the Captains of the Fews, Ferny, Dartrie, Killmarlin, and Kilultagh, and all those of Clandeboyes side. With them he took order to assure the borders, having appointed to receive their pledges upon his return.

60. Unsuccessful night foray upon Farney

    Farney · barony · Monaghan · 1561

    An unsuccessful night expedition was undertaken against Farney to attack Mc Mahon and certain of Shane O'Neil's Scots. The attempt was rendered fruitless by the treachery of the Earl of Kildare, as reported by the Earl of Sussex to Cecil.

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    The State Paper Office preserves an account of an unsuccessful foray which was made upon Farney, a few months later.7 The expedition was undertaken by night, and it was intended to attack Mc Mahon, and certain of Shane O'NeiPs Scots. The attempt however, the Earl of Sussex informs Cecil, " was rendered fruitless by the treachery of a certain Lord " [The Earl of Kildare]. The death of Shane O'Neil in 1567, and the general submission of the chieftains of Ulster, which shortly preceded that event, eventually entitled the Queen to more than nominal authority in the north of Ireland, her rights were soon afterwards formally recognized by the act of parliament for the attainder of Shane O'Neil passed in 1569.

    The State Paper Office contains several documents relating to the state of the North at this interesting period ; among them is a scheme in Cecil's hand writing for projected garrisons in Ulster, and for dividing the late O'Neil's Territory into Shires by authority of Parliament. There is also a paper called " The Division of Ulster 1567." The value and extent of Mc Mahon's Country is thus estimated :

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir

    As the companion tells it

    The barony of Farney was the target of an unsuccessful night expedition in 1561. The foray was intended to attack Mc Mahon and certain of Shane O'Neil's Scots. The Earl of Sussex informed Cecil that the attempt was, in his words, "rendered fruitless by the treachery of a certain Lord," that lord being the Earl of Kildare. The State Paper Office preserves the account. The years that followed brought great change to the north of Ireland. Shane O'Neil died in 1567, and the chieftains of Ulster made a general submission, which shortly preceded that event. This eventually entitled the Queen to more than nominal authority in the north. Her rights were formally recognized by the act of parliament for the attainder of Shane O'Neil, passed in 1569. The State Paper Office also holds a scheme in Cecil's own handwriting for projected garrisons in Ulster, and for dividing the late O'Neil's territory into shires by authority of parliament. There is also a paper called The Division of Ulster 1567.