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. William Cesar's lease and tenant obligations at Droman, Carrickmacross

   Carrickmacross · town · Monaghan · 1638

   In 1638 the Earl of Essex granted William Cesar, an innholder of Carrickmacross, a 40-year lease for a dwelling house and land called the Droman, on the highway from Carrick towards Castleblayney. The lease imposed obligations to ditch and fence the land, grind corn at the lord's mill, and provide annual labour with horse and cart.

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   32 Margaret Cesar was apparently the widower of" William Cesar of Caricke in the County of Monaghan, in the Realme of Ireland Inholder," to whom Robert, Earl of Essex, granted a lease dated July 20, 14th Charles I. [1638.] The premises are thus described, "all that messuage tent and dwellinge howse in Carrick wherein the said Willm Cesar doth nowe inhabite and dwell, and the yards gardens and orchards thereunto adioyninge and belonginge, and also all that pte and pcell of land and grounde in Carrick called the Droman wth th' apptevis lyinge on the waste side of the highe way there, leadinge from the towne of Carrick towards Castle-Blayney." Covenant that the said William Cesar will within ten years next coming, ditch and inclose with fences the demised premises, and grind his corn at the Lords jnill, provided he lives wthin 3 miles of the same, also upon reasonable warning shall send a

   Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 65

   As the companion tells it

   In 1638, the Earl of Essex granted William Cesar, an innholder of Carrickmacross, a 40-year lease for his dwelling house and the land called the Droman, lying along the highway from Carrick towards Castleblayney. The lease described the house where Cesar then lived, with its yards, gardens and orchards adjoining. It bound him to ditch and fence the land within 10 years. He had to grind his corn at the lord's mill, so long as he lived within 3 miles of it. And upon reasonable warning, he was to send a horse and cart for the lord's annual labour. His widow Margaret is recorded as the widow of William Cesar of Caricke in the County of Monaghan, in the Realme of Ireland, innholder.

2. Primate brings ancient rolls to Monaghan sessions

   Monaghan · town · Monaghan · 1606

   The Primate of Armagh and his tenant Garney attended the General Sessions at Monaghan, where the Primate brought his ancient rolls and evidences for the lands of Inishkeen. Ever McCowle, despite being urged repeatedly, never raised the dispute before the judges.

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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

   In 1606, the town of Monaghan was the setting for a reckoning over lands at Inishkeen. Ever Mc Cowle had sent word that those lands belonged to the Earl of Essex. He was disproved in the Council Chamber by the Earl of Tyrone, then present, and by many others who testified the lands of right pertained to the Primate. Still, to satisfy Ever Mc Cowle, an order was taken with his own consent. The Primate of Armagh and his tenant Garney would both appear at the General Sessions held that month at Monaghan, for trial of the matter before the Lord Chief Justice and His Majesty's attorney, appointed Justices of that Circuit. The Deputy, the Chancellor, the Chief Justice, Sir Oliver Lambert, and Sir Gerrott Moore were also present, concerning the division of that county. The Primate and his tenant attended the sessions from beginning to end. The Primate brought thither his ancient rolls and evidences for those lands. But Ever Mc Cowle never once raised the matter, not to the judges, not to the Deputy, though he knew the Primate had traveled there with his learned counsel for no other cause, and though he was urged time and again to bring the question forward. The Barons later affirmed that Ever Mc Cowle had been called and acquainted with Garney's complaint, and that it was deposed before them Garney was quietly possessed of those lands before the rebellion. The whole country testified the lands of Inishkeen belonged to the Primate, and upon that the Barons established Garney's possession.

3. Captain Willis placed at Clones, later murdered by the Irish

   Clones · town · Monaghan · 1587

   A small force was stationed at Clones under Captain Willis as part of defensive measures for the territory. Willis was afterwards murdered by the Irish, illustrating the perilous position of English garrisons in the border region.

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   The only result of these several propositions for the defence of the country, appears to have been the placing of a small force at Clones, under Captain Willis [afterwards murdered by the Irish]. The unsettled state of Monaghan at this period, appears from the following letter from Mr. afterwards Sir Henry Duke, to the Lord Deputy Perrot, then about to be relieved from his government, dated from his house at " Castle Jordan" in the County of Meath, "the 9th of Januarie 1587-8."

   " Right Ho : and my verie good Lo : theis are to certifie your Lo : that presentlie I have receyved from the Brenny of certeine that the Erie of Tyrones Brother, Cormock, and Tirlogh Mc Henry of the fewes, Mc Arte, Mc barons sonnes, and Henry Mc Shane and his brethren have berie in Campe this 7 dayes past wUl 300 horsemen, 300 skottes, 400 galliglas, 400 kerne, and 140 shott and have made made a Keaysle over a great River

   Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 40

   As the companion tells it

   Clones in Monaghan had a small English force stationed in it in 1587, under Captain Willis. He was afterwards murdered by the Irish. The perilous state of the territory at that time is shown by a letter from Henry Duke, later Sir Henry Duke, to the Lord Deputy Perrot, who was about to be relieved from his government. The letter is dated the 9th of January 1587, written from his house at Castle Jordan in County Meath. Duke wrote that he had received word from the Brenny that the Earl of Tyrone's brother, Cormock, and Tirlogh Mc Henry of the Fewes, Mc Arte, Mc Baron's sons, and Henry Mc Shane and his brethren, had been in camp for 7 days past with 300 horsemen, 300 Scots, 400 galloglasses, 400 kerne, and 140 shot, and had made a camp over a great river.

4. Castle of Donaghmoyne built by Richard Pipard c.1197

   Donaghmoyne · townland · Monaghan · 1197–1200

   The Annals of Kilronan record that the Castle of Donaghmoyne was built in 1197, and the Register of Clogher fixes the event about 1200, naming Richard Pipard, Baron of Ardee, as founder. This castle became the seat of the Anglo-Norman Manor of Donaghmoyne, from which the territory of Farney was administered.

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   Farney had the misfortune, from its position on the frontiers, to be exposed to the depredations of both English and Irish, though recognised by the former as parcel of the County of Louth, and claimed by the latter as belonging to Mac Mahon's Country, the exact date in which it was first erected into a Manor, by the name of the Manor of Donaghmoyne, from the principal parish of the district, and granted by the Crown to the Anglo- Norman family of Pipard, we have no means of ascertaining. The Annals of Kilronan, however, under the year 1197, inform us, that "the Castle of Domhnach Maighen (Donaghmoyne) was built this year," and the Register of Clogher has fixed that event " about the year 1200," preserving the name of Richard Pipard, Baron of Atherdee, as the founder ; 62 we may therefore infer that the antient Territory of Farney was granted to the ancestor of the Pipards very soon after the Anglo-Norman Invasion. This family appears to have been in possession upwards of a century. In the 30th year of Edward I. we find Sir Ralph Pipard, Knt. Lord of the Manor of Donaghmoyne, who by his deed, dated on the Wednesday next after the Feast of Saint Martin, 1302, resigned to the king "all his Castles, Towns, Manors, lands and Tenements which he had in Ireland, together with knights-fees, advowsons of Churches, and religious houses, with homage and service of freemen, with liberties and free-customs, &c. at the same time he commanded his brother of St. John, constable of his Castles ' de atro dei,' (Atherdee or Ardee) ' et de Donenaghmayn," to deliver up the said Castles to the king or his attorney."63 Donaghmoyne and the surrounding Territory of Farney seems, from this period, to have been held as parcel of the Royal demesne, the Crown granting from time to time to different individuals the custody of the Castle and Manor at a fixed rent ; thus we find in the

   62 Addit. 4789, page 109. 63 Patent Roll, 30 E. I.

   Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 10

   As the companion tells it

   Somewhere close to Donaghmoyne, a castle once stood, and its story is bound up with the old territory of Farney. Farney lay on the frontiers, exposed to the depredations of both English and Irish. The English recognised it as parcel of the County of Louth, while the Irish claimed it as belonging to Mac Mahon's Country. The exact date Farney was first erected into a Manor, under the name of the Manor of Donaghmoyne, and granted by the Crown to the Anglo-Norman family of Pipard, is not known. But the Annals of Kilronan, under the year 1197, tell us that the Castle of Donaghmoyne was built that year. The Register of Clogher has fixed that event about the year 1200, and preserves the name of Richard Pipard, Baron of Ardee, as the founder. From this, it may be inferred that the territory of Farney was granted to the ancestor of the Pipards very soon after the Anglo-Norman Invasion. The Pipard family appears to have been in possession for upwards of a century. In the 30th year of Edward I, Sir Ralph Pipard, Lord of the Manor of Donaghmoyne, by his deed, dated the Wednesday after the Feast of Saint Martin, 1302, resigned to the king all his castles, towns, manors, lands and tenements in Ireland, together with knights-fees, advowsons of churches, and religious houses, with homage and service of freemen, with liberties and free-customs. At the same time he commanded his brother of St. John, constable of his castles of Ardee and Donaghmoyne, to deliver up the said castles to the king or his attorney. From this period, Donaghmoyne and the surrounding territory of Farney seem to have been held as parcel of the Royal demesne, the Crown granting from time to time to different individuals the custody of the castle and manor at a fixed rent.

5. Crannog at Lough Allen, residence of Mac Anaw

   near Lough Allen · lake or lakes · Leitrim

   The largest crannog house in Ireland was said to be on an island in Lough Allen, county Leitrim. It was the residence of Mac Anaw (now Forde), one of O'Rourke's sub-chieftains, illustrating the scale of crannog habitation.

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   43 Vast quantities of bones of animals were also found, relics of the feasts of the Chiefs of Famey. We may also notice in this place the discovery of various antient Irish relics in a small island in the lake of Monalty, not far from Lisanisk, particularly a canoe or boat formed out of one piece of oak, and measuring 24 feet in length, besides stone, and bronze celts, and hunting spears, and various other instruments, such as bronze needles and pins, &c. from which it would appear that on this island had been one of the strongholds of the chiefs of the districts, in fact a Crannoge, or wooden house, built on an artificial island. The largest house of this description in Ireland is said to have been on an island in Lough Allen (Co. Leitrim); it was the residence of Mac Anaw (now Forde), one of O'Rourke's sub-chieftains. The following notices of Crannoges occur in the Annals of the Four Masters. —

   "A. D. 1246, Turlogh, son of Hugh O'Conor escaped from the Crannog of Loch Leisi, [in Roscommon,] in the harvest, having drouned the persons who were guarding him, viz. Cormac O'Muireadhaigh [Murry], & two of the O'Mearan's.

   Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 46

   As the companion tells it

   Lough Allen in County Leitrim held the largest crannog house in Ireland, on one of its islands. A crannog was a wooden house built on an artificial island, a stronghold of a chief. This one was the residence of Mac Anaw, whose family is now called Forde. He was one of O'Rourke's sub-chieftains, a man who held his power under a greater lord. The scale of the place sets it apart. Of all such houses built on artificial islands across Ireland, this was said to be the greatest. Crannogs left their traces in bones and bronze and stone. On a small island in the lake of Monalty, not far from Lisanisk, finds included a canoe formed from a single piece of oak, 24 feet in length, along with stone and bronze celts, hunting spears, bronze needles and pins, and other instruments. Animal bones were relics of the feasts of the chiefs. These were fortified dwellings, lived in by the men who ruled the districts around the lakes.

6. Donaghmoyne lands wasted and destroyed by the Irish, c.1332

   Donaghmoyne · townland · Monaghan · 1332–1341

   By the sixth year of Edward III, the lands of Donaghmoyne had been wasted and destroyed by the Irish, prompting the king to order an inquiry into their value and extent. The lands were then committed to John de Clinton for life at a rent of four pounds a year, with arrears forgiven due to the rebellious state of the country.

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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 around here, the lands of Donaghmoyne were wasted and destroyed by the Irish. In the sixth year of Edward III, the King's Justice in Ireland was commanded to enquire on oath as to the value and extent of these lands, and to commit them to John de Clinton for the term of his life. The grant was confirmed in the twelfth of the same reign, when the king regranted to John de Clinton all the lands and tenements of Donaghmoyne with their appurtenances in the County of Louth, to be held for life at a rent of four pounds a year. Then in the fifteenth of Edward III, the Crown gave Clinton time to pay arrears amounting to 48 marks, in consideration of the rebellious state of the country. How long Clinton held the manor is uncertain. In the forty-fifth of Edward III, it was again at the disposal of the Crown, and conferred on Roger Gernon of Gernons-town, for his services in the battle of Dundalk against Edward Bruce. The lands are described as the Manor of Donaghmoyn with its appurtenances together with the lands of ffermoy, then in the hands of Irish rebels. Gernon was to hold them forever, paying for the first twenty years one red rose, to be delivered at the feast of the Nativity of St. John the Baptist, and after that six shillings and eight pence into the exchequer in Dublin at Easter and St. Michael. He had licence to underlet to English tenants, and was required within those twenty years to build a competent castle for the restraint of the enemies and rebels of those territories.

7. Essex's Earle Marshall patents published in Dublin

   Dublin · city · Dublin · 1576

   In Dublin in August 1576, the Lord Deputy publicly read and published Lord Essex's patents for Earle Marshall of the country of Farney. Essex was then officially invested in his new office.

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   " 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+

   On the last day of August, very shortly after the date of the precedingletter, Lord Essex was taken ill of dysentery, which ended fatally on the 22d of September, 1576. Several contemporary accounts of his sickness and death have been preserved, but that which has been attributed to Essex's faithful friend and retainer, Sir Edward Waterhouse, printed in Hearne's preface to his edition of Camden's Annals, is the most minute, and the most entitled to credit.55

   Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 33

   As the companion tells it

   In Dublin, in August 1576, the Lord Deputy arrived and solemnly had Lord Essex's patents for Earle Marshall of the country of Farney read and published. He then invested Essex in his office. It was thought that Essex would profit from that country, but that was left to further trial. The writer noted, Exitvs acta probat, the outcome proves the deed. The Lord Deputy intended on the 15th of that month to go to Connaught to suppress two rebels, the sons of the Earl of Clanrickard. Essex intended to remain near his own country, to defend those borders and take a full survey of his lands. But on the last day of August, very shortly after these events, Essex was taken ill with dysentery. He died on the 22nd of September 1576. Several accounts of his sickness and death were preserved. The most detailed was attributed to Essex's faithful friend and retainer, Sir Edward Waterhouse, printed in Hearne's preface to his edition of Camden's Annals.

8. Ever Mc Cowle's unpaid chief rents in Cremorne

   Cremorne · barony · Monaghan · 1607

   Ever Mc Cowle sought a reduction in the chief rent payable to the Crown from his lands in the Barony of Cremourne. The Deputy and Council noted that despite his request, he had paid none at all and was best able to pay of any man in Ulster.

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   Yr lips said Ires of the last of februarii contaynes another branch of a complaint sent unto you from Ever Mc Cowle against Sr Edward Blany for levienge of Beoves and other provisions by way of cesse from the Earles tenantes of farney and Clancarroll, wherein you signifie his Maties pleasure that noe such taxes or burthens shal be imposed upon the Earles Tenants, and that Sir Edward Blanye shall yeald satisfaction unto them for such taxes as already he hath imposed upon them ; To wch complainte wee have caused Sr Edward Blanye to put in his answer in writinge, the effecte whereof is that in the tyme of Sr George Carry's (Carew's) Govern* (necessitie of service so requiringe) he receaved direction to leavye some beoves in that countrie for the pvision of the souldiers in garrison at Monaghan, w,h w* provision he hath been charged in his accompte, and that for the said provisions all the inhabitants of the countie of Monaghan did receave psent payment at that tyme in the next monys, wch Ever Mc Cowle alone did refuse to receave, and so it remaynes in the then Thres or victuallers hands as he conceaves. But since I the Deputie was pferred to this Govern', Sr Edward Blany by way of cesse or otherwise denyeth the takinge of any provisions in that Barrony, confessinge he hath receaved (and still doth,) weeklie lendings for the releefe of his companye, and albeit Ever Mc Cowle hath some tymes since I receaved the sword, complained of the thorowfare of Sr Edwards souldiers in their travell to and from the Pale, yet upon due examination thereof, I have found his complaints to be matters of such small moment, that Ever himselfe after examinacon hath styll desired to have them suppressed." The remainder of the letter relates to a reduction which Ever desired in the Chief Rent payable to the crown from his lands in the Barony of Cremourne. The Deputy and Council remark on this point, " We assure yr lips he hath yet payde none at all, and yet best able to doe it of anie man in Ulster."

   Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 60

   As the companion tells it

   The road runs through the barony of Cremorne in Monaghan. In 1607, a man named Ever Mc Cowle held lands here and sought a reduction in the chief rent payable to the Crown from those lands. The Deputy and Council considered his request and noted that despite his appeal, he had paid none at all, and was, in their words, "best able to doe it of anie man in Ulster." Ever had also made complaints against Sir Edward Blany. He accused Blany of levying beef and other provisions by way of cess from the Earl's tenants in Farney and Clancarroll. The King's pleasure was that no such burdens should be imposed on those tenants, and that Sir Edward should make satisfaction for what he had already taken. Sir Edward Blany put his answer in writing. He said that during Sir George Carew's government, necessity of service had required him to levy beef in that country for provisioning soldiers in garrison at Monaghan. He had been charged for it in his accounts. All the inhabitants of County Monaghan received payment for those provisions at the time, but Ever Mc Cowle alone refused to accept it, and so it remained in the hands of the treasurer or victualler. Since the Deputy took the government, Sir Edward denied taking any provisions by cess in this barony, though he confessed he still received weekly lendings for the relief of his company. Ever also complained about Sir Edward's soldiers passing through on their travels to and from the Pale, but upon examination the Deputy found these complaints so small that Ever himself asked to have them suppressed.

9. Farney lease secures householders' land at sixpence per acre

   Farney · barony · Monaghan

   The lease of the Lordship of Farney to John Talbot included a stipulation that every householder or chief of family dwelling within the lordship could enjoy one carucate of plough land during the term, at a rent not exceeding sixpence per English acre. This provision reflects the land tenure arrangements for existing residents of Farney.

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   wise ffearne, was granted for a term of three years, at an annual rent of £250, with the exception however, of " the appointment of Leetes, faires and markets &c." and also " reserving to the said Earl and his heires full powers to build, make, furnishe, and fortifie, such, and so manie castles, bulwarks, sconses, fortes, fortificacoiis, and houses and places of defence, upon anie pcells of the said Lordshippes &c. as to the said Earl and his heires shall be thought expedient." Provision was also made for the survey and limits of the Lordship of Ferney, and against the " Irish exactions of bonaghte, cesse, coyney, and lyrie." and a particular stipulation was added, " That the said John Talbot should allow every householder or chief of every ffamilie now dwelling within the said Ldship, to have and enjoye during the said terme one carucate of lande or ploughe land &c. so that such householder will yeld or condescend to yeld to the said John Talbot, a convenient and reasonable rent, not to exceede sixpence per English acre, at the most ;" with a covenant " that the said John Talbot shall assist to defend the said Lordships from all invasions incursions &c. and to deliver up the same at the end of the said terme, in as good & peaceable plighte, as the same now are and remaine." 58

   It was certainly out of Mr. Talbot's power to fulfil this last article of his engagement, as the following extracts from the correspondence of the Lord Deputy and Council from the originals in the State Paper Office, will sufficiently prove.

   Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 52

   As the companion tells it

   The road passes through or near the barony of Farney in Monaghan. A lease of this lordship was granted to John Talbot for a term of three years, at an annual rent of 250 pounds. The Earl who granted it kept for himself and his heirs the appointment of courts, fairs, and markets, and full power to build, make, furnish, and fortify such and so many castles, bulwarks, forts, and places of defence upon any part of the lordship as seemed expedient. Provision was made for a survey and the setting of the lordship's limits, and against the Irish exactions of bonaghte, cesse, coyney, and lyrie. A particular stipulation was added for the people already living there. John Talbot was to allow every householder or chief of every family now dwelling within the lordship to have and enjoy during the term one carucate of plough land, so long as such householder would yield a convenient and reasonable rent, not exceeding sixpence per English acre at the most. There was also a covenant that Talbot should assist to defend the lordship from all invasions and incursions, and deliver it up at the end of the term in as good and peaceable plight as it then remained. It was certainly out of his power to fulfil this last article, as correspondence from the Lord Deputy and Council would prove.

10. Hugh Roe seeks patent rights in Dublin

    Dublin · city · Dublin · 1589

    Upon Fitzwilliam's return to Dublin, Hugh Roe McMahone was found there seeking the benefit of the Queen's Irish patents, while his brother remained a prisoner in the Castle.

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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

    Dublin, in 1589, was where Hugh Roe McMahon came seeking the benefit of the Queen's Irish patents. The previous Mac Mahon, who had surrendered and held the country by those patents, had died. Hugh Roe and his brother Brian were in remainder after him. When Fitzwilliam returned to Dublin from Galway, he found Hugh Roe there, looking to claim that benefit, while his brother Brian remained a prisoner in the Castle. Fitzwilliam saw a chance to divide the whole territory among four men. He brought three others to Dublin, each of whom expected to have become Mac Mahon. He thought the one who already held by the Queen's patents would be the hardest to draw into that division. But when the Council charged him with matters done in his brother's time, he came to see, or at least to think, that his position was weakest, and agreed to the course. The rest would not have it. Each one insisted on being Mac Mahon, or nothing. Fitzwilliam called them obstinate, and blind to their own good. So he settled Hugh Roe as he held before, and sent with him, at his own request, 400 footmen and 40 horse, because one of the rivals, Bryan Mc Hughe oge, had made himself Mac Mahon by the custom of the country and held together 500 or 600 hired men. The next step Fitzwilliam took was the imprisonment of Hugh Roe himself, on a charge of treason. The Lords of the Council in England wrote to Fitzwilliam about it from the Court, on the 19th of November, 1589.

11. John Davison, Vicar of Inishkeen, built his own house

    Inishkeen · town · Monaghan · 1622

    In 1622, John Davison, M.A., held the vicarage of Inishkeen worth £10 and was also Vicar of Killanny. He resided in Inishkeen in a house of his own building on temporal lands, having no glebe, while the church was ruinous.

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    The Rectory of Innishkeen or Inniskeen was antiently appropriate to the Abbey of Louth ; its value at the time of the Suppression was 40s\52 In the 4th of James I. it was found to be of no value, on account of the Rebellion in the County of Monaghan, but formerly let for twelve lagencE of butter, and the sum of £2 annually.52 These Tithes, like the moiety of those of Donaghmoyne and Maghe Ross, which also formed part of the spiritual possessions of the Abbey of Louth, were restored to the Church during the Episcopate of Bishop Montgomery, between the years 1633 and 1639, as we have noticed before, in the account of the Parish of Donaghmoyne. The value of the vicarage of " Ihiskeene" in 1622, was £10, it was held by John Davison, M.A. who was also Vicar of Killanny, and resided in this Parish in " a house of his owne building on temporall lands for he hath no glebe." The Church was ruinous. In 1634 the living was only worth £18 pr anm. An increase to the glebe was granted in 1757 (Aug. 24), by Robert, Bishop of Clogher.53 The following is a list of Incumbents.

    Admission. Inniskeen, a Rectory. Book. Page.

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 96

    As the companion tells it

    Inishkeen in County Monaghan had a rectory anciently appropriated to the Abbey of Louth. At the time of the Suppression its value was 40 shillings. In the 4th year of James I it was found to be of no value, on account of the Rebellion in the County of Monaghan, but it had formerly been let for 12 lagen of butter and the sum of £2 annually. These tithes, like the moiety of those of Donaghmoyne and Maghe Ross, which also formed part of the spiritual possessions of the Abbey of Louth, were restored to the Church during the episcopate of Bishop Montgomery, between 1633 and 1639. In 1622 the vicarage was worth £10. It was held by John Davison, Master of Arts, who was also Vicar of Killanny. He resided in the parish in "a house of his owne building on temporall lands for he hath no glebe." The church was ruinous. In 1634 the living was worth only £18 per annum. An increase to the glebe was granted on 24 August 1757 by Robert, Bishop of Clogher.

12. King James I restores Termon lands to Bishop of Clogher

    Donaghmoyne · townland · Monaghan · 1611

    In 1611, King James I granted by patent to George Montgomery, Bishop of Clogher, the ancient church lands of Farney that had been alienated during the vacancy of the see. These included the Termons of Magherross, Magherycloony, Donaghmoyne, and Killany, restoring the patrimony of the bishopric.

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    The claims of the Bishop to the Termon lands were however disputed by the Crown, Sir John Davis, at that time Attorney General, maintaining that the Church had only certain rents from those lands, and not the lands themselves. The matter was referred to Juries of " Clerks or Scholars," who in every county brought in verdicts against the Bishops, and in favour of the Government.10 The Termon, or Church lands in Farney are not mentioned in any of these proceedings, being probably considered at the time to have been included in the grant of Queen Elizabeth to Walter Devereux, Earl of Essex, in 1576; whether this was the case or not, there can be little doubt that the Crown had no right to alienate these lands at all, which were the antient inheritance of the Bishoprick of Clogher. That See, however, having been kept vacant from the translation of Miler Magrath, in 1571, to the appointment of George Montgomery, in 1605, it was not till 1611, that they were restored to the Church, when King James I. by patent dated in the eighth year of his reign, granted to George Montgomery, Bishop of Clogher, and his successors (inter alia), Church lands in Farney thus described: " The Termon of Magherross, 4 Tates, the Termon of Magherycloony 4 Tates, the Termon of Donaghmoyne 3 Tates, & the Termon of Killany 1 Tate, together with those Rights of Patronage which the Bishops of Clogher formerly exercised, & not previously granted by the crown." u

    The Parish of Donaghmoyjie.

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 85

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere around here, in 1611, King James I restored church lands that had been lost to the Bishop of Clogher. The lands were called Termons, and one of them was the Termon of Donaghmoyne, with three Tates of land. For years the bishops' claim to these lands had been disputed. Sir John Davis, the Attorney General, argued that the Church held only rents from the Termon lands, not the lands themselves. The matter went to juries described as clerks or scholars, who in every county returned verdicts against the bishops and in favour of the government. The Termon lands in Farney were not mentioned in those proceedings, likely because they were thought to have been included in a grant Queen Elizabeth made to Walter Devereux, Earl of Essex, in 1576. But the Crown had no right to alienate these lands at all. They were the ancient inheritance of the bishopric of Clogher. The see had been kept vacant from the translation of Miler Magrath in 1571 until George Montgomery was appointed in 1605. It was not until 1611 that the lands came back to the Church. King James I, by patent dated in the eighth year of his reign, granted to George Montgomery, Bishop of Clogher, and his successors, church lands in Farney. The patent named them: the Termon of Magherross, four Tates; the Termon of Magherycloony, four Tates; the Termon of Donaghmoyne, three Tates; and the Termon of Killany, one Tate. It also restored those rights of patronage which the bishops of Clogher had formerly exercised, and which the crown had not previously granted away.

13. Mansion foundation near Lough Fea (1826)

    Lough Fea · lake or lakes · Monaghan · 1826

    Plans for a castle on the high grounds of Lurgans adjoining Carrickmacross were prepared but abandoned. In 1826, the grandson of the estate holder laid the foundation of a mansion near the banks of Lough Fea, in the parish of Magheracloone.

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    extensive preparations for erecting a Castle on the high grounds of Lurgans adjoining the town of Carrickmacross, this design was however afterwards abandoned, and it was not until the year 1826, that his grandson laid the foundation of a mansion worthy of the estate, near the banks of Lough Fea, in the parish of Magheracloone.

    During the eighteenth century, the lands of Farney were generally held by " Middlemen," as the intermediate tenant between the landlord and occupier of the soil is called in Ireland, and to this pernicious system may be traced the over population and consequent subdivision of farms, which constitute at the present day the principal obstacle to the improvement of the country ; leaving however this subject, as foreign to our present purpose, we will conclude the very slight notices of comparatively recent times which have been thought not altogether unworthy of preservation in the Annals of Farney, with a Pedigree of the Mac Mahons of Monaghan, principally compiled from the MS. collections of Lord Burghley, who, as it appears by the following curious extract from a letter to his Lordship from the Lord Justice Fitzwilliam, had begun as early as 1562, collecting information with reference to the descents of the Irish Chiefs.

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 77

    As the companion tells it

    Lough Fea sits in the parish of Magheracloone in Monaghan. There was a time when a castle was planned on the high grounds of Lurgans, adjoining the town of Carrickmacross. Extensive preparations were made for building it. But the design was abandoned, and nothing came of it. It was not until 1826 that the grandson of the estate holder laid the foundation of a mansion worthy of the estate, near the banks of Lough Fea. During the eighteenth century, the lands of Farney were generally held by middlemen, the intermediate tenants between the landlord and the occupier of the soil, as they are called in Ireland. The author of the record traces to this pernicious system the overpopulation and consequent subdivision of farms, which he calls the principal obstacle to the improvement of the country. He leaves that subject, though, as foreign to his purpose, and turns to a pedigree of the Mac Mahons of Monaghan, compiled from the manuscript collections of Lord Burghley, who had begun as early as 1562 collecting information about the descents of the Irish chiefs.

14. Rapparee freebooters infest the Barony of Farney

    Farney · barony · Monaghan · 1717

    Gangs of freebooters called Rapparees or Tories, originally disbanded soldiers of the armies of William III and James II, infested the Barony of Farney. In 1717 a guard house was paid for to counter them on the Rapps.

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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 road passes through the barony of Farney, in Monaghan. In the early eighteenth century this country was troubled by gangs of freebooters known as Rapparees or Tories. These were disbanded soldiers, men who had once served in the armies of William the Third and James the Second, and after the wars were over they took to the roads. Lord Weymouth founded a free school at Carrickmacross in 1711 on his share of the property, and Lord Ferrers was said to have planned a barrack for a troop of horse there as well, though it was never built. Such a force might have kept the freebooters in check, for they infested the whole barony. The estate accounts record the response. On the 26th of November 1717, money was paid for a guard house, given to soldiers on the Rapps, two pounds, twelve shillings.

15. St. Dageus, bishop of Inishkeen in the sixth century

    Inishkeen · town · Monaghan · 500–586

    St. Dageus, said by some writers to have been smith to St. Kieran, was bishop of Inis-chaoin (Inishkeen) in the beginning of the sixth century. According to the Festology of Aengus, he died in AD 586.

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    " 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.)

    "A. D. 779. Died the abbot and bishop Flann. (Ann. 4 Masters.)

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 98

    As the companion tells it

    The road takes you through Inishkeen. In the early sixth century this place was the seat of a bishop. St. Dageus, whom some writers say was smith to St. Kieran, was bishop of Inis-chaoin. He died in 586.

16. The seven Johns and martial law at Carrickmacross gallows hill

    Carrickmacross · town · Monaghan

    Local tradition tells of seven persons called the seven Johns who are said to have executed martial law on the gallows hill at Carrickmacross. These stories are however mixed up with fable and traditions of other times.

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    There are still extant in the country many floating traditions of the Tory-hunters of these times, and particularly of seven persons called the seven Johns, from their Christian name, who are said to have executed martial law on the gallows hill at Carrickmacross." n

    These stories are however invariably so mixed up with fable, and the traditions of other times, that it is impossible to rely upon them.

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 76

    As the companion tells it

    There is a tradition in Carrickmacross about seven men called the seven Johns, all sharing that Christian name, who are said to have carried out martial law on the gallows hill. These are remembered as Tory-hunters from older times. But the stories are so tangled with fable and with traditions of other ages that nothing certain can be drawn from them.

17. Sidney takes office at Drogheda and settles Farney

    Drogheda · town · Louth · 1575

    Sir Henry Sidney arrived in Ireland on 12 September 1575 and received the sword of office at Drogheda. One of his first acts was conferring with the Earl of Essex about putting him in possession of the territory of Farney, part of the attainted lands granted to Essex by Queen Elizabeth.

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    "I went to Tredatt (Drogheda) (Sepr 13 1575), and as soone as I could, receaved the Sword of the then Deputie, and takinge some order for the peacable and pollitique govrnment of the English Pale : and after conferrence had wth the Earle of Essex for the best possession that I could putt him in of his Countrey of Farney pcell of the attaynted landes late remembred, and given him by her Matie I jornyed to Carrigfergus, &c." 36

    Essex's own account of this conference with the new Lord Deputy is given in a letter to Walsingham, dated from Drogheda on the 28th of September, 1575, and preserved in the State Paper Office ; it is as follows :

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 29

    As the companion tells it

    In September 1575, Sir Henry Sidney came to Drogheda and received the sword of office from the then Deputy. He took order, in his own words, for the "peacable and pollitique government of the English Pale." Then he conferred with the Earl of Essex about putting him in possession of Farney, part of the attainted lands granted to Essex by Queen Elizabeth. After that, Sidney journeyed on to Carrickfergus. Essex wrote his own account of the conference in a letter to Walsingham, sent from Drogheda on the 28th of September 1575.

18. Tyrone draws his forces to Farney

    Farney · barony · Monaghan · 1601

    In October 1601, Hugh O'Neill, Earl of Tyrone, withdrew his forces to Farney, joined by his half-brother Tyrleugh Mac Henry and Ever Mc Cowly. Sir Theobald Dillon reported this movement to Sir Robert Cecil.

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    " Tyrone is drawen downe to ferney, one Tyrleugh Mac Henry, his halfe brother, and Evare Mc Cowly, that came into the L: Depy are gone and joined with him, whereof I was assured."6

    In a dispatch dated^the 23rd of March 1602-3, Ever Mc Cooley is mentioned by the Lord Deputy Mountjoy as one of the three persons who had assisted the English army, and sent him garrans, "not one," he adds, " from those villaine subjects of the Pale."

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 56

    As the companion tells it

    In October 1601, Hugh O'Neill, Earl of Tyrone, drew his forces down into Farney. His half-brother Tyrleugh Mac Henry and Ever Mc Cowly, who had come to the Lord Deputy, left and joined him. Sir Theobald Dillon reported this to Sir Robert Cecil. Later, in a dispatch of 23 March 1602-3, Mountjoy named Ever Mc Cooley as one of three who assisted the English army and sent him garrans. “Not one,” he added, “from those villaine subjects of the Pale.”

19. Bagnal describes lack of buildings in Mac Mahon's Country, 1586

    Monaghan · town · Monaghan · 1586

    Sir Henry Bagnal, in his 1586 description of Ulster, reported that the chief captain of Mac Mahon's Country, Sir Rory McMahon, could raise horsemen and footmen but that there were no buildings in his country save certain old defaced monasteries.

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    Few persons were better acquainted with the state of Ulster at this period, than Sir Henry Bagnal, and it would have been well for the English government if this good advice had been followed ; as it was, O'Neil made use of the power which had been incautiously entrusted to him, for his own treasonable ends, as the experience of a few years abundantly proved. Sir Henry Bagnal's general view of the new settled Counties in Ulster, is preserved in a tract drawn up by him, and entitled, " The description and psente state of Ulster in Anno 1586." The original is in the State Paper Office ; of Mac Mahon's Country, he says, — " The Countie of Manachun containeth these Countyes, Iriell, Dartrey, Lowghtie, and Trow. The cheife Captin thereof is one Sr Rory Mc Mahon, whoe hath bene sometime contributorie to Oneils and now is left to the Government of the Earle of Tiron : yett of himselffe is very desirous to yeald only to the Queene : and to be governed after the English manner, he is able to make of his owne nation and other his followers c horsemen and fower hundred footemen, buildinges in his contrie are none, save sertaine ould defaced Monastarys." "■" "3

    22 S. P. o.

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 39

    As the companion tells it

    In 1586, Sir Henry Bagnal knew Ulster as well as any Englishman alive. He drew up a tract called The Description and Present State of Ulster, and in it he described Mac Mahon's Country, the land around Monaghan. The chief captain was Sir Rory McMahon. Bagnal wrote that Sir Rory had been contributory to O'Neil's and was now left to the government of the Earl of Tyrone, yet of himself was very desirous to yield only to the Queen and to be governed after the English manner. The country contained the counties of Iriell, Dartrey, Lowghtie, and Trow. Sir Rory was able to raise horsemen and 400 footmen of his own nation and other followers. As for buildings, Bagnal reported that there were none, save certain old defaced monasteries. The land held no standing structures worth the name, only the ruined remains of religious houses, broken down and past their use.

20. Barton brass token found at Carrickmacross

    Carrickmacross · town · Monaghan

    A brass token bearing William Barton's initials and coat of arms was found at Carrickmacross. The token's obverse reads 'W.B. at carack macrosse' with three bears' heads couped, and the reverse reads 'WHEN . YOV . PLEASE . ILE . CHAINGE . THES.'

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    It is unnecessary here to point out the inaccuracies of this statement, which the preceding pages have sufficiently disproved. The Mr. Barton here alluded to, is the same probably as William Barton Esq. who represented the County of Monaghan in the Parliaments of 1(392, 1695, and 1703. According to tradition, his family occupied the Castle of Carrick at the time that it is said to have been burnt ; this must have been previous to the year 1692, when the " ruins of the Castle," are mentioned ; but of the exact date of its demolition we have no account.6 A relic of this gentleman was not long since found at Carrickmacross in the shape of a brass token, here represented.

    The obverse bears " w. b. at carackm acrosse," with the coat of Barton, three bears heads couped, with a bear's head for crest.7 On the reverse

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 72

    As the companion tells it

    A brass token turned up at Carrickmacross, a relic of a man named William Barton. He represented the County of Monaghan in the Parliaments of 1692, 1695, and 1703. According to tradition, his family occupied the Castle of Carrick at the time it was said to have been burnt. That must have been before 1692, when the ruins of the Castle were already being mentioned, though the exact date of its demolition is not known. The token bears his initials and coat of arms. On one side it reads, "W.B. at carack macrosse," with three bears' heads couped and a bear's head for crest. On the reverse it says, "When you please, I'll change these."

21. Drogheda enriched by Earl of Essex's spending

    Drogheda · town · Louth · 1575

    In December 1575, Sidney noted that Drogheda alone was in better state than the other northern towns, having been much amended and increased in wealth through the lavish spending of the Earl of Essex during his prolonged residence there.

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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

    Drogheda, in County Louth, was the one northern town standing in better state in the year 1575. Sidney's dispatches from that period tell of the wretched condition of the north of Ireland in general, and of Farney in particular. He described the County of Louth as greatly impoverished through the continual passage of soldiers travelling to and from the north, and through the ill neighbourhood of the men of Farney. The good towns of Carlingford, Dundalk, and Ardee were extremely impoverished. Only this town was in better state. It had been much amended and increased in wealth, through the great expense of the Earl of Essex, who lay and continued there much. During his abode, as the record says, he "verye bountifullye and honourablye spent in the same." Essex had found it necessary to repair to England at this time, to superintend in person the passing of his Patent, which had been delayed for many months to his great vexation. A note among the State Papers, dated November 1575, from Walsingham, probably addressed to the Earl of Chartley, conveyed the Queen's congratulations on his Lordship's safe return from Ireland. Sidney wrote that only Farney was the gap open to the hurt of the rest, and he besought his lordship to hasten the Earl of Essex to take order in it, and to place some one man to take the charge.

22. Earl of Essex's failed bid for Farney church lands, c.1624

    Donaghmoyne · townland · Monaghan · 1624

    Around 1624, the Earl of Essex made an unsuccessful attempt to gain possession of distinct lands in the Barony of Farney, including Killmurry and Lakloome in Clancarvell and Coolderry. He also tried to set aside inquisition proceedings that had established the Primate's land boundaries, claiming they were fraudulently obtained while he was an infant.

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    There were also other lands described as " The tates lately challenged by the lo: primett." but of which his Grace did not obtain possession, viz. Dromaghrooy 2 Tates, Dromhillagh 1. Ta, Dromlost 1. Ta, Blitoge 1. Ta, Cormoy 1. Ta, Frigalvy 2. Ta, Brakagh 1. Ta, Drimny 1. Ta, Anaghgarroll 1. Ta, Moynalgon l.Ta, Moilly l.Ta, Kedenyminshagh 1. Ta, Dromgristin 1. Ta, Aghrglase 1. Ta, Sheancogh-ban 1. Ta, Moymuinym 1. Ta." Also, " Two Tates called Coolderry, in ferny, held by Chr Lord Slane." [Seethe Inquisition on his death, 10 Car. 1.] " Two Tates called Killmurry in Clancarvell, held by the Lo: Bishop of Meath 2 yeares." " Two Tates called Lakloome in Clancarvell, held by the Lord of Louthe." The last three denominations, in addition to those obtained by the Primate, have ever remained distinct properties from the rest of the Barony of Farney; though from old papers in my possession it appears that the Earl of Essex about the year 1624, made an unsuccessful attempt to obtain possession of them, and also to set aside the proceedings of an Inquisition impanelled for the purpose of ascertaining the limits of the Primate's lands in the Barony of Farney, and which his Lordship asserted had been fraudulently obtained, " he being then an Infant, and much encumbred in repairinge the broken estate of his Lps lands in England left by his Father." In the year 1616, on the petition of Elizabeth Hollingworth, otherwise Whitheade, wife to Rob. Whitheade, gent, the Deed by which these lands of Inishkeen were leased was enrolled in Chancery. It is dated "23 Feb. 21st Eliz. whereby Thomas (Lancaster) Archbishop of Armagh, being empowered by an Act passed at Dublin, 5 Dec. 13th Eliz. to make leases of lands without consent of his dean and Chapter, demised to Edw. Hollingworth, gent, and Rebecca his wife the old waste townes of Blackshanquogh and Whitshanquogh, in Eniskien, and as many other waste towns belonging to the mitre of Armagh in the said parish, and adjacent to the said lands on the south and east, as shall amount to the value of five great plowlands of twelve score acres each, Fengall measure, with their appurtenances ;

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 59

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere around here, the Earl of Essex made a failed bid for church lands in Farney around 1624. Three properties in particular had long stood apart from the rest of the Barony of Farney: two tates called Killmurry in Clancarvell, two tates called Lakloome in Clancarvell, and two tates called Coolderry in Farney. Killmurry had been held by the Lord Bishop of Meath for two years. Lakloome was held by the Lord of Louth. Coolderry was held by Lord Slane. Essex tried to obtain possession of all three. He also tried to set aside the proceedings of an inquisition that had been impanelled to ascertain the limits of the Primate's lands in the Barony of Farney. He claimed the inquisition had been fraudulently obtained. He said he had been "then an Infant, and much encumbred in repairinge the broken estate of his Lps lands in England left by his Father." His attempt was unsuccessful. The three denominations remained distinct properties, separate from the rest of the barony. There were also other lands described as the tates lately challenged by the Lord Primate, though his Grace did not obtain possession of them. These included Dromaghrooy, Dromhillagh, Dromlost, Blitoge, Cormoy, Frigalvy, Brakagh, Drimny, Anaghgarroll, Moynalgon, Moilly, Kedenyminshagh, Dromgristin, Aghrglase, Sheancogh-ban, and Moymuinym.

23. Francis Jobson engaged to survey and map Farney

    Farney · barony · Monaghan · 1592

    Francis Jobson, a geographer, wrote to Sir William Fitzwilliam in March 1592 that he had promised the Earl of Essex to survey and plat the territory of Farney and Clancarvall. He detailed his daily expenses for travel and noted that the Earl had promised to reward him well.

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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, in Monaghan, was to have been mapped and surveyed in 1592. Francis Jobson, a geographer, wrote to Sir William Fitzwilliam on the 10th of March that year. He said he had been paid six shillings and eight pence for every day he travelled, besides horse meat and man's meat of their charges. He had promised the Earl of Essex to survey and plat the territory and Clancarvall, for which "his Lorp. hath and will reward me well." But the survey was probably never carried out. A commission had been appointed to define the limits of the territory. Its members 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 wrote to Essex from the town of Maher Rosse on the 8th of December, 1592. They warned that fair and large promises had been made to some of them of part of the said land, if it should be exempted from the bounds. They feared the loss of a great quantity of land, and thought it fit and necessary to desist from the service for the present, intending to hold a safer course at a more apt time after Mr. Talbot's return. They asked Essex to advise with his learned counsel and to let them know his resolution before they should again enter into the service. They broke up without defining the limits. 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, Jobson's map and survey was likely left unexecuted.

24. Lord Deputy Leonard Gray's dispatch from Drogheda, 1538

    Drogheda · town · Louth · 1538

    Lord Deputy Leonard Gray wrote to King Henry VIII from Drogheda on 15 April 1538, reporting on his military expedition into Farney. He emphasised that the King's subjects bore no costs for the journey.

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    pacys yn the sayd countre of Ferney ; soo that by Goddys grace, it shall not be longe, but your Grace shalhave a fermoune of the sayd countre of Ferney ; whych shall pay to your excelent Majestic dowble the rent that hath byne payd yn tymes past, with other commodyties, yf they, that have payd the sayd rent of tene poundes yn tymes passyd to your Grace, doo refues to doo, as they fermours wyll doo. Nat dowtyng but Thomas Bowman, your Gracys servaunt, wyll show your Grace, at lenght, the hole cyrcumstance of thys jorney, whych was then with me at the sayd jorney. Soo that of the sayd jorney your Gracys subjectes was at noo chargys. From your Gracys towne of Drogheda, the 15 day of Aprill.26 [1538.]

    By your moost humble bounden

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 18

    As the companion tells it

    In 1538, Lord Deputy Leonard Gray wrote to King Henry VIII from Drogheda, which he called the King's town, reporting on his military expedition into Farney. Gray told the King that by God's grace it should not be long before the King held the country of Farney firmly. It would pay double the rent that had been paid in times past. Those who had paid ten pounds before might refuse to pay, but new farmers would. Thomas Bowman, the King's servant, had been with Gray on the journey and would show the King the full circumstances. Gray stressed that the King's subjects were at no charge for the expedition. The letter was dated the 15th of April 1538.

25. Redmond MacMahon elected Captain of Farney at Kilmainham

    Farney · barony · Monaghan · 1543

    Redmond Mc Rory MacMahon of Ferney was chosen and elected Captain of Farney by the Lord Deputy and Council at Kilmainham, following the death of Hugh Roo Macmahon. He bound himself as a true subject with military obligations and an annual payment of ten pounds for the country of Ferney.

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    Two years later, fresh Articles of Peace were concluded between Sir Anthony St. Leger the Lord Deputy, and " Redmond Mc Rory (Mac Mahon) of Ferney, gentleman, now, on the death of Hugh Roo Macmahon, lately captain there, chosen and elected at Kilmainham, by the Lord Deputy and Council, Captain of Ferney." By these articles, " the said Redmond binds himself to be true subject to the king and his successors, declares that he will aid and abet no rebels, that he renounces the usurped authority of the Roman Pontiff, that he will not receive, protect, or defend any of his adherents, nor suffer any of them in his country, but will with all industry and diligence, expel, eject, and eradicate, or at the summons of the said king and his successors, coerce and seize them : he answereth all hostings in his own person, with ten horsemen, and sixteen well armed kerne, and

    36 State Papers, vol. iii. p. 336. » Carew MSS. 603. fol. 133.

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 21

    As the companion tells it

    In the barony of Farney in 1543, a new captain was chosen. Hugh Roo MacMahon had died, and the Lord Deputy Sir Anthony St. Leger and the Council met at Kilmainham to elect his successor. They chose Redmond Mc Rory MacMahon, a gentleman of Ferney. Fresh Articles of Peace were concluded between St. Leger and Redmond. By these articles Redmond bound himself to be a true subject to the king and his successors. He declared he would aid and abet no rebels. He renounced the usurped authority of the Roman Pontiff. He would not receive, protect, or defend any of his adherents, nor suffer any of them in his country, but would expel, eject, and eradicate them, or at the king's summons coerce and seize them. He answered all hostings in his own person, with ten horsemen and sixteen well armed kerne. He paid ten pounds yearly for Ferney.

26. Barton family's occupation of Carrick Castle

    Carrickmacross · town · Monaghan · 1692–1703

    According to tradition, William Barton's family occupied the Castle of Carrick at the time it was burnt. The ruins of the castle were already mentioned by 1692, though the exact date of its demolition is unknown. Barton represented County Monaghan in Parliament in 1692, 1695, and 1703.

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    It is unnecessary here to point out the inaccuracies of this statement, which the preceding pages have sufficiently disproved. The Mr. Barton here alluded to, is the same probably as William Barton Esq. who represented the County of Monaghan in the Parliaments of 1(392, 1695, and 1703. According to tradition, his family occupied the Castle of Carrick at the time that it is said to have been burnt ; this must have been previous to the year 1692, when the " ruins of the Castle," are mentioned ; but of the exact date of its demolition we have no account.6 A relic of this gentleman was not long since found at Carrickmacross in the shape of a brass token, here represented.

    The obverse bears " w. b. at carackm acrosse," with the coat of Barton, three bears heads couped, with a bear's head for crest.7 On the reverse

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 72

27. Christopher Verdon appointed Seneschall of Farney

    Farney · barony · Monaghan · 1606

    In May 1606, Christopher Verdon was appointed Seneschall of the Honor, Dominion, Manor, Territory and hereditiments of Farney in County Monaghan, acting on behalf of the young Earl of Essex and with the consent of his guardians.

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    At the same time, the young Earl, with the consent of his mother, Frances, then Countess of Clanrickard, and of the above mentioned noblemen, appointed " Christopher Verdon gent : Seneschall of the Honor, Dominion, Manor, Territory, Liberty, and hereditiments of Farney, in the County of Monachan in Ireland." 8

    The year 1606, is however more particularly remarkable for the second settlement of the County of Monaghan, which Sir John Davis has detailed in his celebrated letter to the Earl of Salisbury, which gives us a curious account of the Vice-Regal progress through the Ferney, in the month of July, 1608.

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 56

28. Jerome Lyne, Constable of Carlingford and Greencastle

    Carlingford · town · Louth · 1538

    Jerome Lyne, a servant of Cromwell who had been active with Lord Deputy Gray in the recent hosting, died and was lamented in Gray's letter to the King. He held the office of Constable of Carlingford and Greencastle in County Louth.

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    On the same day the Lord Deputy wrote a letter to the Lord Privy Seal, differing- from this in no substantial point, except that he mentions with regret the death of Jerome Lyne, a servant of Cromwell, who had been with Gray in the recent hosting, and was very active there ; it is in the State Paper Office. Jerome Lynne, gent, was Constable of Carlingford and Green- Castle in the County of Louth. See Lodge's Patentee Officers, p. 119.

    F

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 18

    As the companion tells it

    Carlingford in County Louth was the seat of a man named Jerome Lyne, who held the office of constable here and at Greencastle. Lyne was a servant of Cromwell. He had gone out with Lord Deputy Gray in the hosting of 1538, and was very active in the field. Then he died. Gray wrote to the Lord Privy Seal and spoke of the loss with regret. The letter still sits in the State Paper Office.

29. Mac Mahon submits to Sir William Drury at Newry

    near Newry · town · Down · 1579

    Following the attack on Mac Mahon's Country in retaliation for the murder of Lord Lowth, Mac Mahon came to the Newry and humbled himself in submission before Sir William Drury, Chief Justice, in January 1578-9, having first sought protection in vain.

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    " Mc Mahowne Chief of his name came to me to the Newry, having sought in vaine to be ptected, and there humbled himself in shewe verye duetifully

    8 S. P. O.

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 34

    As the companion tells it

    In 1579, Newry saw Mac Mahon, chief of his name, come to Sir William Drury, Chief Justice, having sought protection in vain. Drury recorded that Mac Mahon "humbled himself in shewe verye duetifully." This followed the attack on Mac Mahon's Country, retaliation for the murder of Lord Lowth.

30. Magheross property laid waste after rebellion

    Magheross · townland · Monaghan · 1606–1622

    At an inquisition in the fourth year of James I, the property of Magheross was returned as waste and valueless due to the Rebellion in County Monaghan. By 1622, Archbishop Usher's visitation found the church ruinous with no house or glebe, and the non-resident incumbent leaving the vicar only the small tithes.

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    of butter, as appears by an Inquisition of the 4th of James I. when also the property was returned to be waste & of no value on account of the Rebellion in the County of Monaghan.

    It appears from Archbishop Usher's visitation of Ulster in 1622, that the value of the Vicarage of Maghe Ross, was then £10. The Incumbent, who was non resident, was "one Vicar Mc Doivell, a reformed Irish Priest, the Rectory is as the last,"8 but that they take up all ye great tithes, $ leave ye vicar only ye small." The Church was ruinous, and there was no house or glebe. In 1634, this Living was worth £40 per annum,29 but when the present glebe called " Derryolim," was granted by the Bishop to the Vicar I have not ascertained.

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 88

31. Middlemen system and overpopulation in Farney

    Farney · barony · Monaghan · 1700–1799

    During the eighteenth century, the lands of Farney were generally held by middlemen, intermediate tenants between landlord and occupier. This system caused overpopulation and subdivision of farms, which the author identifies as the principal obstacle to improvement of the country.

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    During the eighteenth century, the lands of Farney were generally held by " Middlemen," as the intermediate tenant between the landlord and occupier of the soil is called in Ireland, and to this pernicious system may be traced the over population and consequent subdivision of farms, which constitute at the present day the principal obstacle to the improvement of the country ; leaving however this subject, as foreign to our present purpose, we will conclude the very slight notices of comparatively recent times which have been thought not altogether unworthy of preservation in the Annals of Farney, with a Pedigree of the Mac Mahons of Monaghan, principally compiled from the MS. collections of Lord Burghley, who, as it appears by the following curious extract from a letter to his Lordship from the Lord Justice Fitzwilliam, had begun as early as 1562, collecting information with reference to the descents of the Irish Chiefs.

    [Ld Justice Fitzwilliam to Lord Burghley then Sr W. Cecil, from Thomas- Court April 14, 1562.]

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 77

32. Monaghan baronies divided among McMahon chiefs

    Donaghmoyne · townland · Monaghan · 1590

    After Hugh Roe McMahon's death in December 1590, the chief gentlemen of County Monaghan were identified by the lands they held: Ever McCowley McMahon held Farney in the barony of Donaghmoyne (Earl of Essex's lands), Rossebane McMahon held the Onaghe in Cremorne, and Bryan Mc Hugh Oge McMahon held the barony of Dartree.

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

    " We fynde," add the Lord Deputy and Council, " That the Barony of Donemayne being the Earl of Essex's lands, and a Barony of that Countie, containeth a fyveth part of the whole counte of Monaghan, whereby we cannot so effectually sett downe the maner of the devysion, as we wold to their content"" w,hout the Barony of Dony-mayne. And therefore yf yt would

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 45

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere around here, in December 1590, the Lord Deputy and Council in Dublin wrote to the English Government about County Monaghan. Hugh Roe McMahon had just died, and the chief gentlemen of the county were identified by the lands each one held. Ever McCowley McMahon held Farney in the barony of Donaghmoyne. Clancarvell was also part of that barony, possessed by Collo McBryan's sons. Both were the Earl of Essex's lands. The barony of Donaghmoyne alone contained a fifth part of the whole county of Monaghan. Rossebane McMahon, sheriff of the county, held the Onaghe in the barony of Cremorne. Patrick Duff McMahon also held some part of that barony. Bryan McHugh Oge McMahon had the barony of Dartree. McKenna was a chief gentleman and freeholder in the barony of Trough. Patrick McArte Moyle and many others held lands in the barony of Monaghan. The Lord Deputy and Council wrote that they could not, in their words, so effectually settle the manner of the division to their content without the barony of Donaghmoyne, since it was the Earl of Essex's lands.

33. Murder of trumpeter Keating at Dundalk

    Dundalk · town · Louth · 1589

    Coule Mac Ardell and Connor Oge, described as traitors, willfully murdered Nicholas Keating, a trumpeter to Captain Warren, at Dundalk in County Louth on 5 April 1589, contrary to the Queen's peace.

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    Crowne and Dignitie, & to the Statute in that case pvided. The said Couly and Connor wth othr Traitors the 5 of Aprill in the 31 yere of her Mas raigne at Dongalle in the Countie of Lowthe of their pretenced mallice did willfully murder Nichas Keating, Trompeter to Cap" Warren, contrarie to her Mats peace.

    " The said Coule and Connor the 6 of Octobr in the 30 yere of her Mays raigne did traiterouslie murdre Neale Mc Cormock ODuffy at Tetalan wthin the Countie of Monaghan.

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 45

    As the companion tells it

    Dundalk, in County Louth. On the 5th of April 1589, in the 31st year of the Queen's reign, Coule Mac Ardell and Connor Oge, along with others described as traitors, murdered Nicholas Keating. He was a trumpeter to Captain Warren. The record says they did it willfully, out of malice, contrary to the Queen's peace.

34. Oliver Plunket receives Lannat and Lacklom in Inishkeen

    Inishkeen · town · Monaghan · 1541–1542

    At the suppression of the Abbey of Louth in the 33rd year of Henry VIII, Oliver Plunket, Baron of Louth, was granted its possessions, including the townlands of Lannat and Lacklom in the parish of Inishkeen, which passed from the Crown and remain held under the Plunket family.

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    The other moiety of the Rectory of Donaghmoyne was the property of the Abbey of Louth, though by whose grant, and at what period acquired, does not appear. At the suppression, this Abbey was granted to Oliver Plunket, Baron of Louth, in the 33rd of Henry VIII. by which grant the Townlands of Lannat and Lacklom in the parish of Inishkeen, formerly parcel of the possessions of the same Abbey, passed from the Crown,14 and is to this day held under the Plunket family. The moiety of the Rectorial Tithes however, formed no part of the grant to Lord Louth, they remained in the Crown, and in the 1 1th of Elizabeth were leased with Tithes of many other parishes formerly belonging to the Abbey of Louth, to John Wacklie, gent, from Easter 1590, for 40 years. This person's interest was purchased by Rice ap Hugh, gent, and a new lease for the same period granted to his son, Ambrose ap Hugh, of Drogheda, gent, in the 7th of James I.15 The interest of this last family was eventually bought by George Montgomery, Bishop of Clogher, and restored to the Church between the years 1633 and 1639» " By virtue of his Maties Lre, and hereby the revenue of the Church is increased above all rents to his Maty, and other reprises, at the least pr anm £800." l6

    An Inquisition in the 4th of James I. mentions among the possessions of the Abbey of Louth, " The moiety of the rectory of Donakmain in the low

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 85

35. Peace indenture signed at Ardee

    Ardee · town · Louth · 1425

    In 1425, a peace agreement was signed at Ardee between Deputy James de Botiller and Bernard Mac Mahon, Captain of his nation. Bernard and his brothers pledged to faithfully pay the annual rent to the lords of Farney and all dues to the King.

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    It was probably on the termination of these lives that the lands were confirmed to Roger Gernon in the second of Henry V. as before mentioned, however, whether by forfeiture or otherwise they soon reverted again to the Crown, and were granted by King Henry VI. in the third year of his reign [Feb. 7, 1424], "to John Sayntleg," by the name of the "Dominions of Donaghmayne and Fernowy, in the County of Louth," to be held during pleasure, without rent : it was valued at this time at 40 pence per annum only.75 A few months subsequent to this grant, a solemn compact, or Indenture of Peace, was entered into between " James de Botiller, Deputy, and Bernard Mac Mahon, Captain of his nation, Rory and Magnus his brothers, dated at Athirde, the 12th of May, 3. H. VI. [1425]." A special clause in this agreement provides that " The said Bernard and his brothers, and all others of his nation subject to him, shall faithfully pay in future the whole annual rent to the lords of ffernewy, and whatever is due from them to the King his heirs and successors."76

    It does not therefore clearly appear from the Patent Rolls when the Mac Mahons were finally established in Farney, since although Aghy Mac Mahon was in possession as early as the third of Henry IV. we find Maurice Pounteyn in the tenth of that reign, Roger Gernon in the second of Henry V. and John St. Leger in the third of Henry VI. recognised as Lords of the " Dominion of Farney."

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 11

    As the companion tells it

    Ardee, in Louth, was where a peace indenture was signed in 1425. A few months before, in February of 1424, King Henry VI granted the dominions of Donaghmayne and Fernowy in the County of Louth to John Sayntleg, to be held during pleasure, without rent. The lands were valued at 40 pence per annum. Then on the 12th of May, 1425, a solemn compact was entered into between James de Botiller, Deputy, and Bernard Mac Mahon, Captain of his nation, with his brothers Rory and Magnus. It was dated at Athirde, the name used then for Ardee. A special clause in this agreement provides that the said Bernard and his brothers, and all others of his nation subject to him, shall faithfully pay in future the whole annual rent to the lords of Farney, and whatever is due from them to the King, his heirs and successors. When the Mac Mahons were finally established in Farney does not clearly appear from the Patent Rolls. Aghy Mac Mahon was in possession as early as the 3rd year of Henry IV. Yet Maurice Pounteyn in the 10th of that reign, Roger Gernon in the 2nd of Henry V, and John St. Leger in the 3rd of Henry VI were all recognised as Lords of the Dominion of Farney.

36. Queen Elizabeth grants Farney to the Earl of Essex

    Farney · barony · Monaghan · 1576

    In May 1576, Queen Elizabeth I granted the Earl of Essex and his heirs the dominion and territory of Farney (also written as hiffearne) in Ulster, as outlined in a comprehensive patent preserved in the State Paper Office.

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    1. " A graunt from her Matie to the Earle and his herres for eu of the domynions and territories called fferney als hiffearne and Mac Guyes Hand in the province & Erldome of Ulster in Ireland. And all lands tents, advousons, knights fees, and hereditaments whatsoeur in the territories, townships, comots, pishes, hamlets, and fields, wch heretofore haue bene under the governein1 or Sesse of any Captayne of fferney, or any captayne of the said lands called Mac- Guyes Hand in the said province and Erledome of Ulster in Ireland, and all lands territories tenemts advowsons, knights fees and hereditaments whatsoeur, belonginge, used, accepted, reputed, enjoied, as p' pcell or member of any the pmisses, exceptinge to her Ma"e her herres and successors all havens, and all customes, subsidies, and demands for any marchandizes to be due. To hold the said domynion and territories of fferney and the lands reputed as pcell thereof of her Matie her herres & successors as of the castett of Dublin by the rent of a horse or xxtie marks Irish in fre socage, and to hold the said Macguies Hand wth th'apptenaunce as of the Castell of Knockfergus, by the rent of a faucon in free socage.

    50 Carew MSS. 601, fo. 53. Printed in the Sidney Papers, vol. i. p. 96.

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 31

    As the companion tells it

    The barony of Farney was given away by a queen who never set foot in it. In May 1576, Queen Elizabeth the First granted the dominion and territory of Farney, also written as hiffearne, to the Earl of Essex and his heirs forever. The patent covered all lands, tenements, advowsons, knights' fees, and hereditaments in the territories, townships, hamlets, and fields that had been under the government or seisin of any captain of Farney. It also covered the lands called Mac Guyes Hand in the province and earldom of Ulster. The queen kept back for herself and her successors all havens, and all customs, subsidies, and demands for any merchandise due. The Earl was to hold Farney of the Castle of Dublin, by the rent of a horse or twenty marks Irish in free socage. Mac Guyes Hand he was to hold of the Castle of Knockfergus, by the rent of a falcon in free socage.

37. Sir Ralph Pipard surrenders Donaghmoyne to the Crown, 1302

    Donaghmoyne · townland · Monaghan · 1302

    Sir Ralph Pipard, Lord of the Manor of Donaghmoyne, resigned all his castles, towns, manors and tenements in Ireland to the king in 1302, ordering the constable to deliver up the castles of Ardee and Donaghmoyne. From this point, the territory of Farney was held as part of the royal demesne.

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    Farney had the misfortune, from its position on the frontiers, to be exposed to the depredations of both English and Irish, though recognised by the former as parcel of the County of Louth, and claimed by the latter as belonging to Mac Mahon's Country, the exact date in which it was first erected into a Manor, by the name of the Manor of Donaghmoyne, from the principal parish of the district, and granted by the Crown to the Anglo- Norman family of Pipard, we have no means of ascertaining. The Annals of Kilronan, however, under the year 1197, inform us, that "the Castle of Domhnach Maighen (Donaghmoyne) was built this year," and the Register of Clogher has fixed that event " about the year 1200," preserving the name of Richard Pipard, Baron of Atherdee, as the founder ; 62 we may therefore infer that the antient Territory of Farney was granted to the ancestor of the Pipards very soon after the Anglo-Norman Invasion. This family appears to have been in possession upwards of a century. In the 30th year of Edward I. we find Sir Ralph Pipard, Knt. Lord of the Manor of Donaghmoyne, who by his deed, dated on the Wednesday next after the Feast of Saint Martin, 1302, resigned to the king "all his Castles, Towns, Manors, lands and Tenements which he had in Ireland, together with knights-fees, advowsons of Churches, and religious houses, with homage and service of freemen, with liberties and free-customs, &c. at the same time he commanded his brother of St. John, constable of his Castles ' de atro dei,' (Atherdee or Ardee) ' et de Donenaghmayn," to deliver up the said Castles to the king or his attorney."63 Donaghmoyne and the surrounding Territory of Farney seems, from this period, to have been held as parcel of the Royal demesne, the Crown granting from time to time to different individuals the custody of the Castle and Manor at a fixed rent ; thus we find in the

    62 Addit. 4789, page 109. 63 Patent Roll, 30 E. I.

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 10

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere around here, in what was once the territory of Farney, the Anglo-Norman family of Pipard held sway for over a century. Farney sat on the frontiers, exposed to the depredations of both English and Irish. The English recognised it as parcel of the County of Louth, while the Irish claimed it as belonging to Mac Mahon's Country. The exact date when Farney was first erected into the Manor of Donaghmoyne is not known. But the Annals of Kilronan tell us that the Castle of Domhnach Maighen was built in 1197. The Register of Clogher places that event about the year 1200, and preserves the name of Richard Pipard, Baron of Atherdee, as the founder. So the territory was likely granted to the Pipards very soon after the Anglo-Norman Invasion. The family held possession for upwards of a century. Then, in the 30th year of Edward I, Sir Ralph Pipard, Lord of the Manor of Donaghmoyne, made a decisive act. By his deed, dated the Wednesday next after the Feast of Saint Martin, 1302, he resigned to the king "all his Castles, Towns, Manors, lands and Tenements which he had in Ireland, together with knights-fees, advowsons of Churches, and religious houses, with homage and service of freemen, with liberties and free-customs." At the same time, he commanded his brother of St. John, constable of his castles of Ardee and Donaghmoyne, to deliver up the said castles to the king or his attorney. From this period, Donaghmoyne and the surrounding territory of Farney were held as parcel of the royal demesne. The Crown granted the custody of the castle and manor to different individuals from time to time, at a fixed rent.

38. Clones garrison held by the enemy

    Clones · town · Monaghan · 1595–1598

    During the sustained rebellion of 1595–1598, the garrison of Clones, along with those of Monaghan and Mucknoe, was in the hands of the enemy, while loyal troops could only hold positions on the borders of the Pale.

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    The rebellious state however, in which the north of Ireland remained for several years, probably prevented the just retribution recommended by his Lordship ; in the mean time, Ever Mac Mahon appears to have been left in actual, though not in undisturbed possession of Farney ; that devoted territory was the scene of constant warfare during the years 1595, 1596, 1597, and 1598. Mr. Talbot could not maintain his ground against the confederated rebels, but detachments of troops were stationed on the borders of the Pale at Ardee, Louth, and Castle Ardagh, in Meath, the Garrisons of Monaghan, Mucknoe, and Clones being in the hands of the enemy ; at length, at the end of the year 1598, the rebellion of Hugh, Earl of Tyrone,

    60 S. P. O.

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 53

    As the companion tells it

    Clones, in Monaghan, was a town held against the crown. Through the years 1595 to 1598, the north of Ireland stayed in open rebellion. The garrisons of Monaghan, Mucknoe, and Clones were in the hands of the enemy. Loyal troops could not hold their ground against the confederated rebels. The best they could do was hold positions on the borders of the Pale, at Ardee, Louth, and Castle Ardagh in Meath. Farney was the scene of constant warfare through all those years. Ever MacMahon was left in actual, though not undisturbed, possession of it. Mr. Talbot could not maintain his ground against the rebels. The rebellion of Hugh, Earl of Tyrone, ran on until the end of 1598.

39. Essex wastes inhabitants' corn and habitations near Farney

    Farney · barony · Monaghan · 1574

    During his 1574 Ulster campaign, Essex reported that local inhabitants fled their cattle to Henry McShane's sons and left behind their corn, which he entirely wasted and spoiled along with their dwellings.

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    " 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

    Very shortly after the date of the above dispatch, the Earl again resigned his government in Ulster, " having no longer soldiers over whom to govern," as he states in a letter to the queen, dated " from Dublin the last of March 1575," concluding with the following remarkable words, in which we can trace his devotion to the improvement of Ireland, and the enthusiastic loyalty which characterized all his proceedings.

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 27

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through or near Farney, this is ground Essex crossed in 1574. He wrote that the inhabitants fled their cattle to Henry McShane's sons, leaving their corn behind. He said, "I have all wasted and spoiled, together with such habitations as they had in that place." The corn and the dwellings were destroyed. Shortly after, Essex resigned his government in Ulster, writing to the queen from Dublin on the last of March 1575 that he had "no longer soldiers over whom to govern."

40. Farney described as the open gap

    Farney · barony · Monaghan · 1575

    Sidney warned in December 1575 that Farney was the open gap through which harm came to the rest of the surrounding country, urging Essex to appoint someone to take charge of the territory and prevent further trouble.

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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 barony of Farney in Monaghan drew Sidney's warning in 1575. His dispatches at that time gave melancholy evidence of the wretched state of the north of Ireland, and of Farney in particular. He described the County of Louth as greatly impoverished through the continual concourse of soldiers passing to and fro the north, and through the ill neighbourhood of the men of Farney. The good towns of Carlingford, Dundalk, and Ardee were extremely impoverished. Only the town of Drogheda was in better state, amended and increased in wealth through the great expense of the Earl of Essex, who stayed there much and spent bountifully and honourably during his abode. Essex had gone to England to superintend the passing of his patent, which had been delayed for months to his great vexation. A note from Walsingham dated November 1575 conveyed the Queen's congratulations on a safe return from Ireland, assuring that her affection was such as his best friends could desire. But despite the Queen's gracious disposition, nothing appears to have been done for some time. Sidney's words on Farney were direct. He wrote that "onlye ffarney is the gapp open to the hurte of the rest," and he beseeched Essex to hasten and take order in it, to place some one man to take the charge of the territory.

41. Foundation of Essex Castle in Carrickmacross

    Carrickmacross · town · Monaghan · 1621–1641

    Essex Castle in Carrickmacross was founded by the Earl of Essex and likely built shortly after the regrant of Farney in 1621. It was established under a license permitting the erection of castles and fortifications for a 20-year period.

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    ment of Sir Arthur Chichester. The Castle of Carrickmacross, called from its founder, Essex Castle, could not have been then built ; its exact date I have not ascertained, but it was probably erected shortly subsequent to the regrant of Ferney in 1621 ; license for erecting castles, fortilages, houses, defences and fortifications, being limited by that Instrument to 20 years.

    The Carew MSS. have preserved an account of the Muster Roll of the Province of Ulster in the reign of James I. The County of Monaghan is rated as follows.

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 61

42. Muckno garrison held by the enemy

    Muckno · parish · Monaghan · 1595–1598

    During the sustained rebellion of 1595–1598, the garrison of Muckno, along with those of Monaghan and Clones, was in the hands of the enemy, leaving loyal forces confined to the Pale border.

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    The rebellious state however, in which the north of Ireland remained for several years, probably prevented the just retribution recommended by his Lordship ; in the mean time, Ever Mac Mahon appears to have been left in actual, though not in undisturbed possession of Farney ; that devoted territory was the scene of constant warfare during the years 1595, 1596, 1597, and 1598. Mr. Talbot could not maintain his ground against the confederated rebels, but detachments of troops were stationed on the borders of the Pale at Ardee, Louth, and Castle Ardagh, in Meath, the Garrisons of Monaghan, Mucknoe, and Clones being in the hands of the enemy ; at length, at the end of the year 1598, the rebellion of Hugh, Earl of Tyrone,

    60 S. P. O.

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 53

    As the companion tells it

    The road passes through the parish of Muckno. For years this part of the north stayed in rebellion. Farney was the scene of constant warfare through 1595, 1596, 1597, and 1598. Ever MacMahon held Farney in actual, though not undisturbed, possession. Mr. Talbot could not maintain his ground against the confederated rebels. Loyal detachments were kept on the borders of the Pale at Ardee, Louth, and Castle Ardagh in Meath. The garrisons of Monaghan, Muckno, and Clones were in the hands of the enemy.

43. Bishop Montgomery restores Donaghmoyne tithes to the Church

    Donaghmoyne · townland · Monaghan · 1633–1639

    Between 1633 and 1639, George Montgomery, Bishop of Clogher, purchased the interest of the ap Hugh family in the moiety of rectorial tithes of Donaghmoyne and restored them to the Church, increasing church revenue by at least £800 per annum over all rents and reprises.

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    The other moiety of the Rectory of Donaghmoyne was the property of the Abbey of Louth, though by whose grant, and at what period acquired, does not appear. At the suppression, this Abbey was granted to Oliver Plunket, Baron of Louth, in the 33rd of Henry VIII. by which grant the Townlands of Lannat and Lacklom in the parish of Inishkeen, formerly parcel of the possessions of the same Abbey, passed from the Crown,14 and is to this day held under the Plunket family. The moiety of the Rectorial Tithes however, formed no part of the grant to Lord Louth, they remained in the Crown, and in the 1 1th of Elizabeth were leased with Tithes of many other parishes formerly belonging to the Abbey of Louth, to John Wacklie, gent, from Easter 1590, for 40 years. This person's interest was purchased by Rice ap Hugh, gent, and a new lease for the same period granted to his son, Ambrose ap Hugh, of Drogheda, gent, in the 7th of James I.15 The interest of this last family was eventually bought by George Montgomery, Bishop of Clogher, and restored to the Church between the years 1633 and 1639» " By virtue of his Maties Lre, and hereby the revenue of the Church is increased above all rents to his Maty, and other reprises, at the least pr anm £800." l6

    An Inquisition in the 4th of James I. mentions among the possessions of the Abbey of Louth, " The moiety of the rectory of Donakmain in the low

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 85

44. Earl of Essex's planned buildings in Farney

    Farney · barony · Monaghan · 1575

    In December 1575, the Earl of Essex wrote to the Lords of the Privy Council requesting expedition of his affairs, warning that if the Queen employed him in Ireland, it would be a great hindrance if his planned buildings in Farney were not begun that spring.

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    bycause I know her Maty to be a prynce of great consyderatyon, and your Lordshyppes carefull to repayre my Ruynes. And very comfortable yt ys to me that bothe her Maly and youe have so well accepted of my servyce. Therefore my petycyons extendethe not to encrease her Maty favores, wch I fynde allredye farre above my deserts, or to better your Dysposytyons wch I knowe are carefull of my causses, but onlye to entreate youe to procure me expedycyon, and to thynke uppon thys, that yf her Maty employe me in Yrelande as may be gathered uppon suche letters as bothe the L. Deputye and I have receved ; Then yt wylbe greate hynderaunce to the servyce and somewhat to my owne pertyculler, yf the byldynges intendyd by me in ferney be not begone thys sprynge. I wyll troble your Lordshyppes no longer, but wyll hope of her Maty spedy Resolutyon. And so do comytt youe to God.

    At Duresme house, the 29 of december 1 575.

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 30

    As the companion tells it

    Farney is the barony you are passing through or near. In December 1575, the Earl of Essex wrote from Durham House to the Lords of the Privy Council. He told them he knew the Queen to be a prince of great consideration, and thanked them for accepting his service. His petition was not to increase her favor, which he found already far above his deserts, but to ask them to procure him expedition. He warned that if the Queen employed him in Ireland, as might be gathered from letters both the Lord Deputy and he had received, it would be great hindrance to the service and somewhat to his own particular, if the buildings he intended in Farney were not begun that spring. He said he would trouble them no longer, but would hope for her Majesty's speedy resolution, and committed them to God. The letter was dated the 29 of December 1575.

45. Father Ross McMahon, Lord Abbot of Clounish, buried at Inishkeen

    Inishkeen · town · Monaghan · 1722

    Father Ross McMahon, Doctor of Canon and Civil Law, Lord Abbot of Clounish, Vicar General of the Diocese of Clogher, and Rector of Donamine and Enniskeen, died on 6 June 1722 aged 72 and was buried at Inishkeen.

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    " Here lieth the body of the Revd Father Ross Mc Mahon Doctor of the Canon and Civil Law, Lord Abbot of Clounish, Vicar General of the Diocess of Clogher, Rector of Donamine, and Enniskeen who departed this life June the 6th 1722, aged 72 years. Requiescat in pace."

    On another flat stone.

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 97

46. Fleming's Castle at Slane demolished by Oriell forces

    Slane · town · Meath · 1176

    In 1176, Malachin M'Laughlin led the people of Tyrone and Oriell in demolishing Richard Fleming's Castle at Slane. The Irish annalists recorded this event alongside De Courcy's battles as part of the Anglo-Norman conflicts in the region.

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

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

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 7

    As the companion tells it

    The town of Slane sits along this road. In 1176, it was the scene of a sharp act of resistance. Richard Fleming had raised a castle at Slane, one of the fortifications by which the Anglo-Normans held their footing in Meath. That year, Malachin M'Laughlin came at the head of the people of Tyrone and Oriell, and they demolished it. The Irish annalists recorded the event, setting it alongside the battles of De Courcy as part of the wider conflict between the Normans and the Irish in that region. The years around the demolition were violent and unsettled. Two years later, in 1178, De Courcy fought a great battle at Glenn Righe, the valley of the Newry river. Farney too was vanquished by De Courcy, though the Irish annalists gave no account of that fact. The lords of Oriell fared little better. Morough O'Carroll succeeded Donogh as lord of Oriell. His death is stated to have taken place in 1189, in the great monastery, the Abbey of Mellefont in County Louth, "after an approved repentance." The next O'Carroll to hold the lordship of Oriell was captured by the English in 1193, "who first put out his eyes and then hanged him." Hanmer, in his chronicle compiled in 1571, gave a minute account of a battle said to have taken place in Farney at about this period, though the writer of the source suspected it had little foundation beyond the imagination of the compiler.

47. Killing of Brian Mac Mahon, Lord of Dartree

    Dartree · barony · Monaghan · 1486

    Brian, son of Rory Mac Mahon, who was the Lord of Dartree, was killed by the English of Machalre Oirghiall in 1486. His death is recorded in the annals of the time.

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    " Brian, son of Rory, son of Ardgal Mac Mahon, Lord of Dartree, was killed by the English of Machalre Oirghiall.

    11 Erganach, called on Norden's map, Owenagh, a territory south of Ballybay, comprising the parish of Aughnamullan in the Barony of Cremourne, and County of Monaghan. Owenagh is still the local name of a river in that neighbourhood ; it rises in Loughtacker near Bellatraine in the parish of Aughnamullan, flows through the parish of Drumgoon in Cavan, and joins the river Erne.

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 15

    As the companion tells it

    Dartree in Monaghan was the lordship of Brian, son of Rory, son of Ardgal Mac Mahon. In 1486 he was killed by the English of Machalre Oirghiall. The annals of the time record his death and no more.

48. McMahon burns Clonelly in Fermanagh

    Clonelly · townland · Fermanagh · 1589

    Hugh Roe McMahon came with force and arms in August 1589 to the country of McDonell of Clonrelly in Fermanagh and traitorously burned his principal house and all his town.

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    " Mc Mahon came wth force and armes in August last 1589 to Mc Donell of Clonrelly his cuntrie in ffermanaghe, and there did burn traiterouslie his principall howse, and all his towne.

    " 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.

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 45

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere around here, in August 1589, McMahon came with force and arms to the country of McDonell of Clonelly in Fermanagh. He burned McDonell's principal house and all his town. Within five days after taking his oath before the Lord Deputy and Council, McMahon displayed his banner against her Majesty's subjects at Magher-Roysse in Farney, and took from there 200 cows and garrans, and 500 sheep and swine.

49. Scottish captain harboured at Monaghan

    Monaghan · town · Monaghan · 1589

    Hugh Roe McMahon entertained Scots at Monaghan, with Mc Owen Roe, captain of the Scots, present in the town and bound to bring in five hundred men to banish the English garrison from Monaghan.

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    " The said Hughe intertaigned Scotts at this present time, and Mc Owen roe Cap", of the Scotts is at Monaghan, and is bound to bring in v hundreth to banishe the English garrison from Monaghan.

    " Mc Mahon came wth force and armes in August last 1589 to Mc Donell of Clonrelly his cuntrie in ffermanaghe, and there did burn traiterouslie his principall howse, and all his towne.

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 45

    As the companion tells it

    In the town of Monaghan, in 1589, Hugh Roe McMahon entertained Scots. Mc Owen Roe, captain of the Scots, was in the town, bound to bring five hundred men to banish the English garrison from Monaghan. That August, McMahon came with force and arms to Mc Donell of Clonrelly's country in Fermanagh, and there burned his principal house and all his town.

50. Troops stationed at Ardee on the Pale border

    Ardee · town · Louth · 1595–1598

    During the years 1595–1598, detachments of troops were stationed on the borders of the Pale at Ardee to counter the rebellion, while the garrisons of Monaghan, Mucknoe, and Clones remained in the hands of the enemy.

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    The rebellious state however, in which the north of Ireland remained for several years, probably prevented the just retribution recommended by his Lordship ; in the mean time, Ever Mac Mahon appears to have been left in actual, though not in undisturbed possession of Farney ; that devoted territory was the scene of constant warfare during the years 1595, 1596, 1597, and 1598. Mr. Talbot could not maintain his ground against the confederated rebels, but detachments of troops were stationed on the borders of the Pale at Ardee, Louth, and Castle Ardagh, in Meath, the Garrisons of Monaghan, Mucknoe, and Clones being in the hands of the enemy ; at length, at the end of the year 1598, the rebellion of Hugh, Earl of Tyrone,

    60 S. P. O.

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 53

    As the companion tells it

    The road takes you through or near Ardee, a town in Louth that stood on the border of the Pale. During the years 1595, 1596, 1597, and 1598, Farney was the scene of constant warfare. Mr. Talbot could not maintain his ground against the confederated rebels. But detachments of troops were stationed on the borders of the Pale here at Ardee, and at Castle Ardagh in Meath. The garrisons of Monaghan, Mucknoe, and Clones remained in the hands of the enemy. At length, at the end of the year 1598, the rebellion of Hugh, Earl of Tyrone, ran on.

51. Waterhous proposes garrison at Donaghmoyne in Farney, 1587

    Donaghmoyne · townland · Monaghan · 1587

    In April 1587, Sir Edward Waterhous proposed a plan for governing Ulster that included stationing a continual garrison of 100 horsemen and 200 footmen at Donaghmoyne in Farney, with the Earl of Essex as general. The garrison would oversee the O'Reillys, Mac Mahons, and other border territories.

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    " To appoint a continuall garrison pcell of her Mats ordinary bands in Ireland, and the same garrison to lie at Donamayii in Ferney, and to consist of 100 horsemen and 200 footmen, wherof the Erie of Essex to be gen all, and to have the govenmt of The Oreylies, The Mac Mahons, The Clankies, and the poles of Methe, Mc Guire and O'Donall.

    " To all wch Countreys the said Erie may travell wth thes forces, and the

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 39

    As the companion tells it

    Near here, in April 1587, Sir Edward Waterhous proposed a plan for governing Ulster. He called for a continual garrison of her Majesty's ordinary bands to lie at Donaghmoyne in Farney, 100 horsemen and 200 footmen, with the Earl of Essex as general. The Earl would have government of the O'Reillys, the Mac Mahons, the Clankees, the pale of Meath, Mc Guire and O'Donnell, and might travel with these forces to all those countries.

52. Weymouth and Shirley listed as absentee landlords in Monaghan

    Monaghan · town · Monaghan · 1720–1769

    In a 1720 list of Irish absentees, Viscount Weymouth and the Hon. Robert Shirley were listed with estates in County Monaghan estimated at £2000 per annum each. By 1769, Weymouth's estate was estimated at £3000 and Shirley's at £5000 per annum.

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    In a list of Irish absentees, ascribed to Thomas Prior, and printed in the year 1720, are found the names of Viscount Weymouth and the Hon. Robert Shirley ; their estates in the County of Monaghan are estimated respectively at £2000 per annum.

    In 1769? another list of absentees was printed, divided into two classes, of " those who live constantly abroad, and are seldom or never seen in Ireland," and " those who live generally abroad and visit Ireland occasionally for a very short time." In the first list is the name of Lord Viscount Weymouth, his estate being estimated at £3000 per annum. The second list includes the name of " — Shirley Esqr. W[arwick] Shire, £5000 pr ann." About 1750, the Shirley family erected a house adjoining the town of Carrickmacross, which became the occasional residence of the family during these brief visits to Ireland, and in 1777, the Hon. George Shirley made

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 76

53. William Barton living at Thomastown, County Louth, 1698

    Thomastown · townland · Louth · 1698

    By 1698, William Barton was living at Thomastowne in County Louth. A preserved letter from him to Robert Shirley mentions his intention to travel to England after twenty-five years' absence to settle legal matters concerning the Farney estate lease of 1656.

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    6 In the year 1698, Mr. Barton was living at Thomastowne in the neighbouring County of Louth, and a letter which has been accidentally preserved addressed by him to the Honble Robert Shirley, eldest son of Robert Lord Ferrers by his first wife, mentions his intention of coming to England, where he had not been for twenty-five years, for the purpose of endeavouring an amicable end with regard to certain legal points relating to the Lords Weymouth and Ferrers, the proprietors of Farney, and connected probably with the lease of 1656.

    7 A. three bears heads couped G. Barton of Barton, in the County of Lancaster, borne also by the Irish branch of that family.

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 72

54. Ardee extremely impoverished

    Ardee · town · Louth · 1575

    Sidney reported in December 1575 that Ardee was extremely impoverished, along with Carlingford and Dundalk, as part of the wider degradation of towns in the north of Ireland caused by ongoing military movements and border disorder.

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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 Ardee, in Louth, was reported in December 1575 as extremely impoverished. Sidney's dispatches from this period contain melancholy evidence of the wretched state of the north of Ireland in general, and of Farney in particular. The County of Louth, he wrote, was greatly impoverished through the continual concourse of soldiers passing to and fro the north, and besides the ill neighbourhood of the men of Farney. The good towns of Carlingford, Dundalk, and Ardee were extremely impoverished. Only the town of Drogheda was in better state, which had been 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. Around this same time, Essex found it necessary to repair to England, to superintend in person the passing of his patent, which had been delayed to his great vexation for many months. A note among the State Papers dated November 1575, from Walsingham, probably addressed to the Earl of Chartley, conveyed the Queen's congratulations on his Lordship's safe return from Ireland. 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, to place some one man to take the charge.

55. Carlingford extremely impoverished

    Carlingford · town · Louth · 1575

    Sidney reported in December 1575 that Carlingford was extremely impoverished, along with Dundalk and Ardee, as a result of the ongoing military unrest and border troubles in the north of Ireland.

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    Read off the scanned page by machine, so a word here and there is misread. Kept as the reading produced it, not corrected.

    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

    Carlingford is a town on this coast, and in 1575 it was in trouble. Sidney, the lord deputy, sent dispatches that year describing the wretched state of the north of Ireland in general and of Farney in particular. He wrote of County Louth that it was greatly impoverished, and he gave the reason. Soldiers passed to and fro through the county continually, heading north, and besides that, the men of Farney were bad neighbours. The good towns of Carlingford, Dundalk, and Ardee were extremely impoverished. Only Drogheda stood in better state. That town had been 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. So Farney, in Sidney's words, was the gap open to the hurt of the rest. He wrote that he beseeched haste, that Essex should take order in it, and resolve to place some one man to take the charge. The town you are passing near was one of several worn thin by soldiers and by what came across that border.

56. Death of Philip Mac Mahon, Canon of Clogher

    Clogher · townland · Monaghan · 1486

    Philip Mac Mahon, who held the position of Canon Chorister of Clogher, died in 1486. He was also the Coarb of Clones and Parson of Dartree.

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    " I486. Philip, son of the Coarb Mac Mahon, [James, son of Rory, son of Ardgal,] Canon Chorister of Clogher, Coarb of Clones, Parson of Dartree, &c. died.

    " Brian, son of Rory, son of Ardgal Mac Mahon, Lord of Dartree, was killed by the English of Machalre Oirghiall.

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 15

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere around here, Philip Mac Mahon died in 1486. He was Canon Chorister of Clogher, Coarb of Clones, and Parson of Dartree. He was the son of the Coarb Mac Mahon, James, son of Rory, son of Ardgal. The same record notes that Brian, son of Rory, son of Ardgal Mac Mahon, Lord of Dartree, was killed by the English of Machalre Oirghiall.

57. Dundalk extremely impoverished

    Dundalk · town · Louth · 1575

    Sidney reported in December 1575 that Dundalk was extremely impoverished, along with Carlingford and Ardee, due to the continuing disorders in the north of Ireland and the open gap at Farney.

    Read the passage

    Read off the scanned page by machine, so a word here and there is misread. Kept as the reading produced it, not corrected.

    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

    In December 1575, Sidney's dispatches carried 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 fro the north, and besides the ill neighbourhood of the men of Farney. The good towns of Carlingford, Dundalk and Ardee were, in his words, extremely impoverished. Only the town of Drogheda stood in better state. Drogheda had been 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 is the gap open to the hurt of the rest, and he besought his lordship to hasten the Earl of Essex to take order in it, as the occasion of his stay in resolution to place some one man to take the charge. Essex had in fact 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. A note among the State Papers, dated November 1575, from Walsingham, conveyed the Queen's congratulations on the safe return from Ireland of the Earl of Chartley. Walsingham wrote, in conclusion, that he found her Majesty's affection towards your lordship such as your best friends can desire. But nothing appears to have been done for some time.

58. Sale of Island Magee to Sir Arthur Chichester

    near Island Magee · parish · Antrim · 1610

    The Earl of Essex sold Island Magee (also called Mc Guire's Island) to Sir Arthur Chichester by deed dated February 20, 1610. The property was not mentioned in James I's confirmation of the Manor of Farney because it had already been sold.

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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 parish of Island Magee changed hands in 1610. The Earl of Essex sold it to Sir Arthur Chichester by deed dated February 20, 1610, in the 7th year of James I. The property was also called Mc Guire's Island. When James I later confirmed the Manor of Farney by regrant, dated at Westminster, May 28, 1621, this property was not mentioned. The reason was simple. It had already been sold. The confirmation was otherwise nearly a copy of Queen Elizabeth's original grant. Instead of the old rent of one horse, or 13 pounds, 6 shillings and 8 pence, the manor was to be held at 26 pounds, 6 shillings and 8 pence Irish, payable at the feast of Saint Michael and at Easter. By 1618 the Barony of Farney had more than trebled in value. Brian, son of Ever Mc Cooley Mc Mahon, who had died the preceding year, farmed it for one year at the high rent of 1500 pounds, 17 shillings. Chichester had long had his eye on this rich promontory. A note to Sir Robert Cecil from Carrickfergus, April 6, 1601, shows him dealing with Charles Ogle, servant to the Earl of Essex, for a piece of land. He called it, in his own words, “a thinge of small valeur.”

59. Crown regrant of Manor of Farney to Earl of Essex

    Farney · barony · Monaghan · 1621

    In 1621, the Earl of Essex received a regrant from the Crown of the Manor of Farney, dated at Westminster. The rent was doubled from one horse (£13 6s 8d) to £26 6s 8d Irish, payable at Michaelmas and Easter.

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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 barony of Farney in Monaghan lies along or near this road. After James I came to the throne, peaceful years helped Ireland improve, and by 1618 Farney had more than trebled in value. Brian, son of the celebrated Ever Mc Cooley McMahon, who had died the year before, farmed it for one year at a rent of £1500. Three years later, in 1621, the Earl of Essex received a regrant from the Crown of the Manor of Farney, dated at Westminster on the 28th of May. The old rent had been one horse, or £13, 6 shillings and 8 pence. It was now doubled to £26, 6 shillings and 8 pence Irish, payable at the feast of St. Michael and at Easter. The regrant was nearly a copy of Queen Elizabeth's original grant, though Island Magfee, or Mc Guire's Island, is not mentioned in it. The Earl had already sold that property to Sir Arthur Chichester, by deed dated the 20th of February, 1610. Chichester had long had his eye on this rich promontory. In a note to Sir Robert Cecil from Knockfergus, dated April 6, 1601, he affected to call it a thing of small valeur. He wrote that at his last being in England, he had dealt with one Charles Ogle, a servant to the Earl of Essex, for a piece of land.

60. Death of Philip Mac Mahon, Coarb of Clones

    Clones · town · Monaghan · 1486

    In 1486, Philip Mac Mahon, who held several ecclesiastical titles including Coarb of Clones, died. He was also the Canon Chorister of Clogher and Parson of Dartree.

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    " I486. Philip, son of the Coarb Mac Mahon, [James, son of Rory, son of Ardgal,] Canon Chorister of Clogher, Coarb of Clones, Parson of Dartree, &c. died.

    " Brian, son of Rory, son of Ardgal Mac Mahon, Lord of Dartree, was killed by the English of Machalre Oirghiall.

    Internet Archive someaccountofter00shir, Chapter 15

    As the companion tells it

    In the town of Clones, in 1486, Philip Mac Mahon died. He held several titles: Canon Chorister of Clogher, Coarb of Clones, and Parson of Dartree. He was the son of the Coarb Mac Mahon, James, son of Rory, son of Ardgal. That same year, Brian, son of Rory, son of Ardgal Mac Mahon, Lord of Dartree, was killed by the English of Machalre Oirghiall.