Some Notices of the Castle and of the Ecclesiastical Buildings of Trim

Each story keeps the passage it was read from. Open one to read the passage as the book has it, and, where the companion has written its own telling, that too.

1. Assizes held in the hall of the Gray Friary and the Market Cross tradition

   Trim · town · Meath · 1820

   D. M'Loughlin, alive in 1820, recalled the assizes being held in the hall or church of the Gray Friary, with the Town House on the site of the present Record Court. In the market street opposite stood a stepped pyramid called the Market Cross, believed to have once borne a silver statue of St. John.

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   D. M^Loughlin, who was alive in 1820 — remembered the assizes being held in the hall or church of this friary; only one judge went circuit at that time. The Town House was part of the same building, and stood on the site of the present Record Court; the shambles were under the Town House. In the market street opposite this building was a pyramid of seven or eight flat steps, called the Market Cross,” on which M‘Loughlin believed there had originally stood a silver statue of St. John, six feet high ; but in his remembrance it was surmounted only by a pole and a weather-cock. From the circumstance that the assizes were held in this priory, it appears to be probable that it was the place in which the parliaments were held in Trim. — See also Rot, Pat, 15 R. II. 42.

   In 1318 there was a dispute between the friars of this house and the Dominicans of Mullingar, respecting the

   Internet Archive somenoticesofcas00butl, Chapter 137

   As the companion tells it

   As you come through Trim, you are passing a town whose courts once sat in monastic premises. D. M'Loughlin, alive in 1820, remembered the assizes being held in the hall or church of the Gray Friary, with only one judge going circuit at that time. The Town House stood on the site of the present Record Court, with the shambles underneath. Across the market street stood a pyramid of seven or eight flat steps called the Market Cross. M'Loughlin believed it had once borne a silver statue of St. John, six feet high, but in his time it carried only a pole and a weathercock. Because the assizes met in the priory, it was thought probable that parliaments had been held there too in Trim.

2. Bishop Draper, holder of the richest parsonage in the kingdom, lives away from Trim

   Trim · town · Meath · 1607

   Sir John Davies in 1607 wrote that Robert Draper, parson of Trim and Bishop of Kilmore and Ardagh, held the best parsonage in the kingdom worth nearly £400 a year, but that no divine service or sermon could be heard in either of his dioceses.

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   This country (Cavan), doth lie within the diocese of Kilmore, whose bishop, Robert Draper, was, and is, parson of Trim, which is the best parsonage in all the kingdom, and is a man of this country birth, worth well nigh £400 a year. He doth live now in these parts, where he hath two bishopricks, Kilmore and Ardagh; but there is no divine^

   * In 1576, Sir Henry Sidney gives the following account of the diocese of Meath, to Queen Elizabeth: ‘‘I was advertized of the particular estate of each church in the bishoprick of Meath, (being the best inhabited country in all this realm) , by the honest, zealous, and learned bishop of the same, Mr. Hugh Bradye, a godly minister of the gospel and a good servant of your highness, who went from church to church himself, and found that there are within his diocese, 224 parish churches ; of which number 105 are appropriated to sundry j)ossessions

   Internet Archive somenoticesofcas00butl, Chapter 122

   As the companion tells it

   As you pass through Trim, you are passing through a town that in 1607 Sir John Davies called the best parsonage in all the kingdom. It was held by Robert Draper, a man of this country birth, who was also Bishop of Kilmore and Ardagh. The living was worth well nigh £400 a year, yet Davies noted that Draper lived away from Trim, and that no divine service or sermon could be heard in either of his dioceses. The richest cure in the kingdom went unpreached.

3. Cormac made Bishop of Trim and buried there

   Trim · town · Meath · 497

   Cormac, nephew of King Leogaire, was made Bishop of Trim by St. Patrick, governed the Church of Armagh for 15 years, died in 497, and was buried at Trim, his festival celebrated both at Trim and Armagh.

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   482 — After the death of larlath, Cormac^ was appointed Archbishop of Armagh, by St. Patrick, who was then very old, and wholly intent on Divine contemplation. He was baptized by him, and educated under four of his disciples; by whose instructions he became an eminent example for innocence, learning, piety, and knowledge of the Holy Scriptures. He was, by St. Patrick, made Bishop of Trim ; and was nephew to King Leogaire, by his brother Elide. The Annals of Ulster call him St. Patrick’s heir,’^ because he survived him. He governed the Church of Armagh 15 years, and died on the 17th of February, 497, and was buried at Trim ; on which day is celebrated his festival, both at Trim and Armagh. — Harris^ Ware’s Bishops.

   A. D. 742f — Died, St. Cormac, Bishop of Trim: he is

   Internet Archive somenoticesofcas00butl, Chapter 119

   As the companion tells it

   Up ahead is Trim, in Meath. A bishop named Cormac is part of this town's old story. After the death of larlath, Cormac was appointed Archbishop of Armagh by St. Patrick, who was then very old and wholly intent on Divine contemplation. Cormac was baptized by him and educated under four of his disciples, by whose instructions he became an eminent example for innocence, learning, piety, and knowledge of the Holy Scriptures. He was, by St. Patrick, made Bishop of Trim. He was nephew to King Leogaire, by his brother Elide. The Annals of Ulster call him St. Patrick's heir, because he survived him. He governed the Church of Armagh 15 years, and died on the 17th of February, 497, and was buried at Trim. On that day his festival is celebrated, both at Trim and at Armagh.

4. Cromwell orders burning of Trim

   Trim · town · Meath · 1649

   Cromwell ordered the burning and quitting of Trim and Dundalk, though fear prevented this from being carried out immediately in both places.

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   “ Immediately upon this I ordered the burning and quitting of Trim and Dundalk ; but fear so possessed them in both places, that neither was done, but that the rebels*

   * I have not been able to ascertain that Cromwell was in person at Trim. In his letter to the speaker, dated Dublin, Sept. 17, 1649, he says : —

   Internet Archive somenoticesofcas00butl, Chapter 113

   As the companion tells it

   You are near the town of Trim in Meath. In 1649, Cromwell wrote, "I ordered the burning and quitting of Trim and Dundalk." Fear, he said, took hold in both places, and neither order was carried out. That is all the record holds.

5. Cromwell sends troops to Trubly near Trim

   Trubley · townland · Meath · 1649

   Cromwell sent a party of horse and dragoons to a house within five miles of Trim called Trubly; Scots companies then in Trim fled upon hearing news of Drogheda's fall, leaving their great guns behind.

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   “Since this great mercy (the storming of Drogheda) vouchsafed to ns, I sent a party of horse and dragoons to Dundalk, which the enemy quitted, and we are possessed of, as also ^another castle they deserted between Trim and Drogheda, upon the Boyne. I sent a party of horse and dragoons to a house within five miles of Trim (Trubly) ; there being then in Trim some Scots companies, which the Lord of Ardes brought to assist the Lord of Ormond ; but, upon the news of Drogheda having fallen into our hands, they ran away, leaving their great guns behind them, which we also have possessed.”

   There is a tradition that Scurlock, of Scurlockstown, with his brother of the Rock, had a skirmish with Cromwell at a hill near Grange, since called Cromwell’s hill.

   Internet Archive somenoticesofcas00butl, Chapter 113

   As the companion tells it

   Somewhere close to Trubley, Oliver Cromwell sent a party of horse and dragoons to a house within five miles of Trim in 1649. Scots companies were then in Trim, brought by the Lord of Ardes to assist the Lord of Ormond. Upon the news of Drogheda having fallen, "they ran away, leaving their great guns behind them." There is also a tradition that Scurlock of Scurlockstown, with his brother of the Rock, had a skirmish with Cromwell at a hill near Grange, since called Cromwell's hill.

6. Dissolution valuation of St Mary's Abbey, Trim

   Trim · town · Meath · 1539

   An account by Sir W. Brabazon recorded the price of vases, jewels, gold and silver ornaments, bells, and household furniture of the abbey of the Blessed Virgin at Trim as £1,861 15s. 2d., besides £40 previously accounted for, at the time of dissolution.

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   In an account made by Sir W. Brabazon, of the price of divers vases, jewels, and ornaments of gold and silver, bells, and the utensils, and household furniture of superstitious buildings, and other goods and chattels: it is stated that the price of property in the abbey of the Blessed Virgin at Trim was £1,861 15s. 2d., besides £40 previously accounted for. — Manfs Hist, p. 162.

   1539 — 15th May — Geoffrey, abbot of the house of the Blessed Virgin Mary, of Trim, surrendered. — Pat, Rolls, 30, 2 Hen, VIII,

   Internet Archive somenoticesofcas00butl, Chapter 130

   As the companion tells it

   As you pass through Trim, this is where St Mary's Abbey stood, dissolved in 1539. On the 15th of May that year, Geoffrey, the abbot of the house of the Blessed Virgin Mary, surrendered it. Sir W. Brabazon drew up an account of the abbey's vases, jewels, gold and silver ornaments, bells, utensils and household furniture. The total came to £1,861, 15 shillings and 2 pence, besides £40 already accounted for.

7. Fuller's account of Mortimer's supposed twenty-year imprisonment in Trim Castle

   Trim Castle · monument · Meath · 1405–1425

   Fuller wrote that Edmund Mortimer, having been taken prisoner by Owen Glendower and ransomed himself, was said to have been kept twenty years in restraint in his own Castle of Trim, though a footnote corrects this as a mistake since he was in fact Lord Lieutenant, not a prisoner, at his death.

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   But most probable it is that he was born where he was buried, at Clare. After the death of King Richard II. he was next heir to the crown — -happy had he been if either more near to it, so as to enjoy the honor thereof, or further off, so as not to be envied and suspected for his title thereunto. Now all the harm this earl had done King Henry was this: that King Henry held from him his lawful inheritance ; yea this meek Mortimer was content to waive the crown, so be it he might but enjoy his private patrimony, which he could not, without many molestations from the king. For this is the nature of some men, to heap injuries on those they have wronged, as if the latter injuries would give a countenance to the former. He employed this Edmund in a war against Owen Glendower, the Welsh rebel, on the same design that Saul sent David to fight against the Philistines; if he proved the conqueror, then was King Henry freed from a professed foe ; if conquered, then was he rid of a suspected subject : but Mortimer went by the worst, and being taken prisoner, the king, though often solicited, never endeavoured his enlargement, till at last he dearly ransomed himself. Yet did he but exchange a Welsh for an Irish prison, being kept twenty years in restraint in his own Castle of Trim, in the end of the reign of the cunning King Henry IV., all the reign of courageous King Henry V.,* and the beginning of the reign

   * Fuller was mistaken in thinking that this unfortunate earl was detained in Trim ; Henry Y. treated him with generous kindness, and he was not a prisoner, but Lord Lieutenant at the time of his death.

   Internet Archive somenoticesofcas00butl, Chapter 55

   As the companion tells it

   Coming up here at Trim Castle in Meath. Fuller wrote that after the death of King Richard the Second, Edmund Mortimer was next heir to the crown. He called him a meek Mortimer, content to waive the crown if he might but enjoy his private patrimony. But King Henry would not let him have it without many molestations. King Henry employed Edmund in a war against Owen Glendower, the Welsh rebel. Fuller likened it to Saul sending David against the Philistines: if Mortimer conquered, the king was freed from a foe; if conquered, the king was rid of a suspected subject. Mortimer went by the worst and was taken prisoner. The king, though often solicited, never endeavoured his enlargement, till at last he dearly ransomed himself. Yet, Fuller wrote, he did but exchange a Welsh for an Irish prison, being kept twenty years in restraint in his own Castle of Trim, through the end of the reign of King Henry the Fourth, all the reign of King Henry the Fifth, and the beginning of the reign that followed. A footnote corrects this, noting that Mortimer was in fact Lord Lieutenant, not a prisoner, at his death.

8. Judicial Corruption of Chief Justice Pykeryn at Trim

   Trim · town · Meath · 1370

   George Telyng, indicted for various felonies and convicted, sued for a general charter of peace before James Pykeryn, Chief Justice of Trim, obtaining it through Pykeryn's influence and paying him extra money for his help.

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   That, George Telyng was indicted for various felonies; and being convicted, and delivered, as a clerk, to the prison of his ordinary, the Bishop of Meath, he sued for a general charter of the peace before James Pykeryn, the Chief Justice of Trim ; and by the interest of said Pykeryn, he obtained a charter for 100 marks, and paid Pykeryn oO marks beside for his help.

   That the said Lord Lieutenant summoned a parliament at Baldoyle, where there were no buildings, except one small chapel ; and, that he chose that place for the pur-

   Internet Archive somenoticesofcas00butl, Chapter 32

   As the companion tells it

   As you pass through Trim in Meath, this town was the seat of a corrupt judge in 1370. George Telyng had been indicted for various felonies and convicted, then handed as a clerk to the prison of the Bishop of Meath. He sued for a general charter of the peace before James Pykeryn, the Chief Justice of Trim. By Pykeryn's interest he obtained the charter for 100 marks, and paid Pykeryn extra money beside for his help.

9. King John lodges at the King's Meadow near Trim

   Trim · town · Meath · 1210

   King John visited Trim and spent two days there, but since there was no castle fit for his reception, his writs were dated from the Pratum subtus Trim, still known as the King's Meadow.

   Read the passage

   came to Trim, and spent there the second and third days of July.^ There was then no castle in Trim fit for the , reception of the king — at least he did not lodge in the castle : his writs are dated from the Pratum suhtust Trim. Mat. Paris says that the king took many castles from his enemies, who fled before his face, amongst whom were Hugh and Walter de Lacy ; and that at last, advancing into a province called Meath, (qum Mide nuncupatur,) he besieged and took a castle, in which were the wife of William Braosa and his family, whom he was said to have afterwards starved to death at Windsor.

   In this, as in most of his notices of Irish affairs, Matthew Paris is not correct. In the justification of his conduct towards De Braosa, which King John published, (which is given at length in Rymer^ and which is worthy of observation for many reasons,) he says, — that when he had taken the Castle of Carrickfergus he was informed by his friend and cousin of Galloway, Duncan of Carrick, that he had taken prisoners, Matildis de Hay, wife of William de Braosa, J and her daughter, who was married

   Internet Archive somenoticesofcas00butl, Chapter 9

   As the companion tells it

   As you pass through Trim, you are near a meadow that once hosted a king. In 1210 King John came to Trim and spent the second and third days of July there, but there was no castle fit to receive him, so his writs were dated from the Pratum subtus Trim, the meadow below Trim, still known as the King's Meadow. Matthew Paris records that the king took many castles from his enemies, who fled before him, among them Hugh and Walter de Lacy, and that advancing into the province of Meath he besieged a castle where William de Braosa's wife and family were taken, whom he was said to have afterwards starved to death at Windsor. But the text warns that Matthew Paris is not correct in most of his notices of Irish affairs. King John's own justification, published afterwards, says that after taking the Castle of Carrickfergus he was told by his cousin Duncan of Carrick that the prisoners included Matildis de Hay, wife of William de Braosa, and her daughter.

10. Miracles worked through St Mary's image at Trim

    Trim · town · Meath · 1444

    In 1444, great miracles were reported to have been worked through St Mary's image in Ath Truim, restoring sight, speech, and limbs, and other wonders.

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    1444 — Great miracles worked through St. Maryes image in Ath Truim, to wit, gave his eyes to the blind, his tongue to the dumbe, his legges to the creple or lame, and the reaching of his hand to one that had it tied into his side, and

    of Jesus ; the Comharbha of Finnen [the abbot of Clonard] ; the Comharbha of Ciaran [the abbot of Clonmacnoisej, with his reliques of the clergy ; also the king of Telach-ardd [now Tullyard] ; Oengus O’Cainelbain ; the king of Telach-Cail, Mael Isu Mac Cairthen ; the king of Magh-Lacha [Moy lough in Rathmoylon, what would Mr. Winter, or Mr. Fowler think of the kings of Tullyard and Moylough ?] ; Gilla-Griguir O’Dummaig ; the king of Tuath Luighne [this name is still preserved in the barony of Lune] ; Laignen Mac Moelan, of the laity ; and also Queen Mor, the daughter of the son of Conchobhar, without any revocation for ever. In the presence of the men of Meath, both clergy and laity, these sureties and guarantees were given ; and they all, both laity and clergy, gave their blessing to every king who should not violate this freedom for ever ; and they all gave their curse to any king who should violate it ; and though it is dangerous for every king to violate Columbkille, it is particularly dangerous to the king of Tara, for he is a relative of Columbkille. — Misc. Archoe., v. i. p. 137.

    Internet Archive somenoticesofcas00butl, Chapter 128

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Trim in Meath, you're moving through a town where, in 1444, great miracles were reported through the image of St Mary. The records say the image gave eyes to the blind, a tongue to the dumb, legs to the crippled or lame, and reached out a hand to one who had his tied into his side. The account calls these wonders plainly and without flourish, listing restoration after restoration. The passage also notes the presence of abbots of Clonard and Clonmacnoise with their relics, several local kings of Meath, and a queen named Mor, daughter of the son of Conchobhar, all gathered as sureties and witnesses. They gave their blessing to any king who would not violate a certain freedom and their curse to any king who would, with a particular warning to the king of Tara, who was a relative of Columbkille. The miracles and the gathering both belong to this same year in Ath Truim, the old name for Trim.

11. Preston's Fields North of Trim Mark His Camp

    Trim · town · Meath · 1647

    The fields north of Trim, towards Trimbleston, are still called Preston's Fields, being the site of General Preston's military camp during the 1647 siege.

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    * The fields to the north of Trim, towards Trimbleston, are still called Preston’s fields. They were the site of his camp,

    t Port Leicester mill, — a great and secure fastness, near five miles westward of Trim. — Irish RehelL Portlester was one of the strongholds of Thomas Fitzgerald, in 1535. The lordship of Portlester became the property of Gerald, Earl of Kildare, by his marriage with Alison, daughter and co-heiress of Sir Poland Eustace, who died 1495. This lordship extended to Bellewstown, near Bective, and it was probably owing to his interest in this neighbourhood, that the abbey of Bective was indebted for the flooring of embossed Tiles, of which the Fitz- Gerald arms formed a conspicuous ornament ; some of these tiles may now be seen in the vestry room in Trim church.

    Internet Archive somenoticesofcas00butl, Chapter 109

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Trim, the fields to the north, towards Trimbleston, are still known as Preston's Fields. They take their name from General Preston, who camped his army there during the siege of Trim in 1647.

12. Ruinous State of Trim's Town Walls in 1642

    Trim · town · Meath · 1642

    By 1642 the fortifications of Trim had decayed so much that the stone wall afforded entrance to horse in some places over heaps of rubbish, through which Sir Charles Coote forced a passage.

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    The fortifications had been allowed to fall into decay, for at this time the town was encompassed with a stone wall so old and ruinous as afforded in some places of it entrance to horse, over heaps of rubbish that lay instead of the wall, through which the bold but savage Sir Charles Coote forced a passage. In the night, the enemy to the amount of 3,000, advanced silently; but the sentinel gave

    which had been prostrated by O’Conor, but little progress had been made in the work in 1546. — State Papers^ vol. ii., p. 220-41, 570.

    Internet Archive somenoticesofcas00butl, Chapter 107

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Trim, the town once had stone walls around it, but by 1642 they had fallen into such decay that horses could walk in over heaps of rubbish where the wall should have been. The bold but savage Sir Charles Coote forced a passage through those ruins. On one night, an enemy force of 3000 advanced silently under cover of dark, but a sentinel raised the alarm.

13. The Greek Church of Trim

    Trim · town · Meath · 750–1632

    Ussher notes that Trim had a church called the 'Greek Church', which survived in name into 1632, connected to legends of a Greek bishop Dobdan who accompanied Virgil of Salzburg from Ireland.

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    750 — Ussher, in his notes to a letter, WTitten about this time by Pope Zachery to Boniface, Archbishop of Mentz, in which the Pope condemns Virgil, afterwards Bishop of Saltzburgh, for asserting that there was another world, and other men, under ground ; by which he probably meant that the earth was a sphere, and consequently, that there were antipodes; states that Virgil brought with him from Ireland a bishop of the name of Dobdan, who was a Greek, and was afterwards Bishop of Chiem, (Chiempsee, in Bavaria), where he opened a school, and had a multitude of scholars. Ussher adds : “ I should have wondered that a Greek had come from Ireland, did I not know, that in the county of Meath, at Trim, there was a church, which retains to this day (1632), the name of the Greek* Church.” — Sylloge, 132.

    * In the Visit. Book, Marsh’s Lib. , it is said that this church was called the Greek School. It stood in a small field, near Navan gate, the property of the Earl of Darnley, which is still called the Greek Park, but all remains of the building have disappeared. Lanigan, with his occasional bold and ingenious incredulity, does not believe that Dobdan was a Greek, and thus accounts for the origin of the story. “ Dobda,” he says, “ would have been a very odd name for a native of

    Internet Archive somenoticesofcas00butl, Chapter 120

    As the companion tells it

    As you come through Trim, there is a church that survives only in a name. Ussher, writing in 1632, said he would have wondered that a Greek had come from Ireland, did he not know that in the county of Meath, at Trim, there was a church which still retained the name of the Greek Church. The story reaches back to around 750. Pope Zachary wrote to Boniface, Archbishop of Mentz, condemning Virgil, afterwards Bishop of Salzburg, for asserting that there was another world and other men under ground, by which he probably meant that the earth was a sphere and that there were antipodes. Ussher states that Virgil brought with him from Ireland a bishop of the name of Dobdan, who was a Greek. Dobdan became Bishop of Chiem, Chiemsee in Bavaria, where he opened a school and had a multitude of scholars. The connection to Trim is that single name. A visitation book in Marsh's Library says this church was called the Greek School. It stood in a small field near Navan gate, on the property of the Earl of Darnley, a field still called the Greek Park, though all remains of the building have disappeared. Lanigan, with his bold incredulity, did not believe Dobdan was a Greek.

14. The Yellow Steeple built at St. Mary's Abbey, Trim

    Trim · town · Meath · 1361–1450

    The tower of St. Mary's abbey in Trim, now called the Yellow Steeple, is probably assignable to the time of Richard Duke of York's residence there, after the abbey church had been burned down in 1361.

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    native Irish, and reduced them to obedience without being obliged to use force ; and he so endeared himself to them, that, with the exception of the family of Ormonde, they were always devoted to the service of himself and his family, even in their greatest misfortunes. In 1449-50, this prince held his court in his hereditary castle at Trim, when he probably restored the castle to its former splendour. He was a benefactor to St. Mary’s abbey, to which house he gave amongst other benefactions afield called Porch-field ; and the tower of the abbey, now called the Yellow Steeple, m ay probably be assigned to this time ; the ch urch of the abbey, according to Pern bridge, had been burned down in 1361.

    Statutes^ ordinances^ ^c., made in the parliament at Drogheda^ on Friday before the feast of St. Mark the Evangelist. — 28 Henry VI.

    Internet Archive somenoticesofcas00butl, Chapter 62

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Trim, that tall tower rising here is the Yellow Steeple, what remains of St. Mary's Abbey. The abbey church was burned down in 1361, and the tower was probably built in the 1440s, when Richard Duke of York held his court at his castle in Trim. He was a benefactor to the abbey, giving it a field called Porchfield, and he so endeared himself to the native Irish that they remained devoted to him and his family, the Ormonde family excepted.

15. Trim as Last Rebel Garrison Besides Dublin, 1649

    Trim · town · Meath · 1649

    In 1649, after Drogheda and Dundalk fell to royalist forces and lesser garrisons submitted quickly, Trim remained the only garrison left to the rebels except Dublin, and it did not hold out more than two days.

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    1649 — The royalist forces under Lord Inchquin, while Lord Ormond was encamped at Finglas, took Drogheda and Dundalk. The lesser garrisons of Newry, Narrow water, Greencastle, and Carlingford, submitted at the first summons; and Trim, which was then the only garrison left to the rebels, except Dublin, did not hold out above two days. — Ibid.^ 74.

    1649 — July 28th — From the unlucky field of battle at Rathmines, Lord Ormond sent notice of the disaster to the forces under Lord Dillon, amounting to 2,500 men, at the other side of the Lifiey, (who knew nothing of what was done till the action was over), with orders for Col. Warren to march with his regiment to Trim, and Colonel Wall with his to Drogheda; for the security of those places, which he imagined would soon be attacked by Jones. Seven days after the defeat, the indefatigable marquis set out from Kilkenny (to which place he had retreated), and marched with 300 horse to Trim ; whither he summoned from every quarter all the forces that could be got together, resolving to make a second attempt upon Dublin ; which enterprise now appeared to him more feasible than ever. — Ibid, 81-2.

    Internet Archive somenoticesofcas00butl, Chapter 111

    As the companion tells it

    Up ahead is Trim in County Meath, a town with a short but pointed chapter in the wars of 1649. After Drogheda and Dundalk fell to Lord Inchquin's royalist forces, and lesser garrisons like Newry, Narrow Water, Greencastle, and Carlingford submitted at the first summons, Trim stood as the only garrison left to the rebels besides Dublin. It did not hold out above two days. Later that July, after the defeat at Rathmines on July 28th, Lord Ormond sent orders for Colonel Warren to march his regiment to Trim, and Colonel Wall to Drogheda, for the security of those places. Seven days after the defeat, Ormond set out from Kilkenny with 300 horse and came to Trim, summoning forces from every quarter for a second attempt upon Dublin, which now seemed to him more feasible than ever.

16. Trim described as most decayed town in the English Pale

    Trim · town · Meath · 1538

    Agard describes Trim and Bective as the king's towns 'sorriest in decay' of any place in the English Pale, with residents more likely to flee than remain without urgent aid.

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    by your good lordship’s help, that I may have the king’s letters, that the poor town of Trim may be excused from hostings and journeys for seven years, with the lordship of Bectyffe, (Bective) else the Lord Deputy will in a manner undo them, and me both. They be the king’s towns and the sorriest in decay of any place in the English pale in Ireland, and more (men) like to flee out of the town, than to abide, unless they have aid the sooner.” This was past by Act of Parliament, both the commons and lords, but the Lord Deputy w^ould not pass the royal assent thereto. — St. Papers, vol. ii. pt. hi., page 569.

    1541 — March 26 — Touching the repayreng of our Castle of Trirae, which you thinke to be moche necessary, declaring that the coontrey is also soo desirous of the same as they offre to beare a large portion of theire oune towards it, you shall understande that for the good of our subgicttes of that lande, we be content that by warraunt herof of such money as shall come to our treasory there, you, our Deputy, with the advice of our Chancellour, Chief Justice, and Vice-Treasourer, shall employ about the fortifications of the dongeon, the gates and the walls only, the sum of two hundred pounds sterling, — being first at such a point with the countrey for the performance of theyr part towardes the same, as those may concurre and be employed in such sorte together, as the worke maye not only be doon in convenyent and seasonable tyme, but also with such forsight, provision and oversight in the doing, as that which shall be doon may be substancially doon, and yet the money be extended as farre by husbondrye, as your wisdomes can

    Internet Archive somenoticesofcas00butl

    As the companion tells it

    Coming up through Trim in Meath. In 1538, Agard sought the king's letters to have the poor town excused from hostings and journeys for seven years, along with the lordship of Bective. He warned that the Lord Deputy would in a manner undo them both. The town and Bective were the king's towns, and in Agard's words, the sorriest in decay of any place in the English Pale in Ireland. He said men were more likely to flee out of the town than to abide, unless they had aid the sooner. This plea was passed by Act of Parliament, both commons and lords, but the Lord Deputy would not pass the royal assent to it. Three years later, on the 26th of March 1541, the repair of the castle came up again. It was said that the repair was much necessary, and that the country was so desirous of it that the people offered to bear a large portion of their own towards it. The king was content that 200 pounds sterling from the treasury there be employed about the fortifications of the dungeon, the gates and the walls only. But first the country had to be at such a point to perform their part toward the work, so that both could concur and the money be employed together. It was to be done in convenient and seasonable time, with foresight, provision and oversight, so that what was done might be substantially done, and the money extended as far by husbandry as wisdom could manage.

17. Order to Build County Gaol Within Trim Castle Site

    Trim Castle · monument · Meath · 1610–1611

    Sir James Carroll was granted the ruinous castle of Trim in 1610 with orders to build a competent house on its site and, within its walls, a good and safe county gaol, under penalty of £100.

    Read the passage

    3rd of March, 1611, upon the scite of the ruinous Castle of Trim, a competent and convenient house, on which he was to expend £500, on* the penalty of forfeiting 1,000 marcs ; and when the same was built, at the request of the chief governor, to surrender it into the king’s hands for the service of the crown, under the like penalty of 1,000 marcs, the crown repaying him all the expenses he had been at in re-building and repairing the same; also to build within the scite of the said castle a good and safe county gaol, under the penalty of £100, he to receive in recompense thereof such fees as any constable or gaoler had received heretofore. — Beth, Coll.

    1624 — December 23rd — Sir James Craige having by deed, dated 10th December, 1624, appointed Sir Adam Loftus, of Rathfernam, knight, his assignee, to receive lands of £26 10s. Irish, a-year, the king grants to him and his heirs — the scite of the manor of Trym, surrounded with a stone wall, and containing therein three acres ; divers houses and gardens, haggards, places, &c., in Trym.

    Internet Archive somenoticesofcas00butl, Chapter 105

    As the companion tells it

    Right here at Trim Castle in Meath, you are looking at the site where, in 1610, Sir James Carroll was granted the ruinous castle with firm orders attached. He was to build a competent and convenient house on the site, spending 500 pounds, on penalty of forfeiting 1,000 marks. Once it was finished, he was to surrender it into the king's hands for the service of the crown, again under penalty of 1,000 marks, though the crown would repay him all his expenses in rebuilding and repairing. He was also to build, within the site of the castle, a good and safe county gaol, under penalty of 100 pounds, receiving in recompense such fees as any constable or gaoler had received before. By December 1624, Sir James Craige had appointed Sir Adam Loftus of Rathfarnham as his assignee to receive lands worth 26 pounds and 10 shillings Irish per year, and the king granted to him and his heirs the site of the manor of Trim, surrounded by a stone wall and containing three acres, with divers houses and gardens.

18. Tomb of Sir Lucas Dillon at Newtown

    Newtown · townland · Meath

    In the ruins of the small parish church near the abbey of Newtown stands an altar tomb erected to Sir Lucas Dillon, Chief Baron of the Exchequer under Queen Elizabeth, and his wife Jane Bath, with recumbent effigies and armorial decoration, though the inscription is now defaced.

    Read the passage

    In the ruins of the very small parish church, near the abbey of Newtown, are the remains of a tomb, erected to the memory of Sir Lucas Dillon, Chief Baron of the Exchequer, in the reign of Queen Elizabeth, and the trusted friend of Sir Henry Sidney. It is an altar tomb, with the recumbent figures of Sir Lucas and his lady, Jane Bath ; and adorned with the arms of the Dillons, Baths, and Barnewalls, and with a shield bearing two bends — perhaps for Sherle. The inscription, which is now defaced, is thus given by Lodge [Roscommon] : —

    “ Militis Hie Lucse Dillonis ossa quiescunt,

    Internet Archive somenoticesofcas00butl, Chapter 125

19. Bective's name and ancient significance as the 'Little Palace'

    Bective · townland · Meath

    Bective, recorded also as Bectiff and Begty, is said to derive from Begteach meaning the Little Palace, contrasted with the neighbouring Tara, the Great Palace; nearby Clady contains a beehive house and other Irish antiquarian remains.

    Read the passage

    t Bective, called in the records Bectiff and Begty, is probably derived from Begteach, and signifies the Little Palace, in contradistinction from the neighbouring Teamor, Tara, or Great Palace. In the hill at Clady (Cletty) there is a bee-hive house, with other Irish remains.

    Perhaps Bective was the place to which the royal palace was transferred from Tara in 564. Regnante porro Diarmitio, A.T). 565. Temerise arx a S. Ruadano maledicta desinit esse sedes Regia, et Regni sedes adalium collem hand procul aTemo-

    Internet Archive somenoticesofcas00butl, Chapter 79

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere around here is Bective, also recorded as Bectiff and Begty. The name probably comes from Begteach, meaning the Little Palace, set against the neighbouring Tara, the Great Palace. It may even be the place where the royal seat was transferred from Tara in 564. Close by at Clady there is a beehive house and other Irish remains.

20. Bishop John Payne installed in St. Patrick's church, Trim

    Trim · town · Meath · 1483–1506

    John Payne, D.D., a friar preacher, was ordained Bishop of Meath in 1483 and installed by the clergy of Meath in St. Patrick's church in Trim on the feast of St. Dominic. He had been Master of the Rolls and was renowned for charity and hospitality, dying in 1506.

    Read the passage

    1483 — John Payne, D.D., a friar preacher, was ordained Bishop of Meath, by Sixtus 4th ; and on the feast of St. Dominic, the patron of this order, (August 4th,) was installed by the clergy of Meath, in St. ^Patrick’s church in Trim. He was for some time Master of the Rolls, and was a man famous for his charity and hospitality: he died 1506. — Ware^s An, Hen, VII.

    1500 — Donnell O’Fallon, Bishop of Derry, friar minor of the observance, who for the period of thirty years diligently wrought and preached throughout Ireland, died of an inward disease, and was interred at Trim — Four Masters,

    Internet Archive somenoticesofcas00butl, Chapter 122

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Trim, in Meath, this is where John Payne, a friar preacher and Doctor of Divinity, was installed as Bishop of Meath in St. Patrick's church on August 4th, 1483, the feast of St. Dominic. Pope Sixtus the Fourth had ordained him for the role. Payne had served as Master of the Rolls and was renowned for his charity and hospitality. He died in 1506. Trim also holds the grave of Donnell O'Fallon, Bishop of Derry, who preached throughout Ireland for thirty years before dying of an inward disease in 1500.

21. Dispute over de Lacy's remains resolved in 1205

    Bective · townland · Meath · 1205

    A great controversy arose between Bective Abbey and St Thomas's Abbey over possession of the rest of Hugh de Lacy's body, finally decided in 1205 in favour of St Thomas's Abbey by judges appointed by Pope Innocent III.

    Read the passage

    wife.^ A great controversy rose between the two abbies respecting the rest of his body, which was at last decided in the year 1205, when it was adjudged to the abbey of St. Thomas by Simon Rochfort, Bishop of Meath, the Archdeacon of Meath, and the Prior of Duleek, who had been appointed judges in the case by Pope Innocent III. — Harris'^ Wavers Bishops.

    At the death of Hugh de Lacy, it is written in the Irish Chronicles (says Baron Finglas in the Breviate) : — “ Quod ibi cessavit conquestus.”

    Internet Archive somenoticesofcas00butl, Chapter 6

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere close to Bective, two abbeys once fought over Hugh de Lacy's remains. Bective Abbey and St Thomas's Abbey both claimed the rest of his body, and the dispute went all the way to Rome. In 1205 it was settled in favour of St Thomas's, by judges appointed by Pope Innocent III: Simon Rochfort, Bishop of Meath, the Archdeacon of Meath, and the Prior of Duleek.

22. Felim O'Reilly dies of plague, buried at Trim monastery

    Trim · town · Meath · 1447

    Felim, son of John, son of Philip O'Reilly, heir to the lordship of Breffny, died of plague in 1447 after being treacherously taken prisoner at Ath Trium by Lord Furnival, and was buried in the Monastery of Trim.

    Read the passage

    Felim, son of John, son of Philip O’Reilly, worthy heir to the lordship of Breffny, died of this plague after the victory of Unction, and was buried in the Monastery of Trim.f — Four Masters.

    * The Wellesleys were called by the Irish, MWalront, or M‘Falrene, from their ancestor Waleran or Valerian Wellesley in the time of Edward I.

    Internet Archive somenoticesofcas00butl, Chapter 128

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Trim, you are near a monastery where Felim O'Reilly lies buried. He was the heir to the lordship of Breffny, treacherously taken prisoner at Ath Trium by Lord Furnival in 1447. He died of plague and was laid to rest in the Monastery of Trim.

23. Old age and career of Prior Francis Leynagh at Donore

    Donore · town · Meath · 1751

    Francis Leynagh, prior of the Dominican house, died around 1751 at nearly 100 years old, having entered the order late in life after decades as a parish priest; by this time the convent had relocated to Donore where the friars held a farm from Joseph Ashe.

    Read the passage

    1751 — About this time died Francis Leynagh, prior of this house; he was nearly 100 years old. He had been for many years a parish priest, and did not enter this house until he was nearly 60. At this time the convent was placed at Donore, where the friars held a farm from Mr. Joseph Ashe, and also possessed the adjoining Roman Catholic parish. — Hib. Dom.

    Bishop Burke, who wrote in 1756, says that a few years before that time the walls of the house and chapel gave evidence of their original magnificence, but that shortly

    Internet Archive somenoticesofcas00butl, Chapter 135

24. Trim Castle committed to Richard Fitzgerald with forty horsemen

    Trim Castle · monument · Meath · 1534

    After the rebel's defeat near Trim, the castle and town were committed to Richard Fitzgerald with forty horsemen, and gentlemen of the county were commanded to assist him.

    Read the passage

    that lyke a cowardly boy and traitor, he was driven to flye at spurres, and lost divers of his men and horseis, with their harnes, to his shameful rebuke and reproaches.” Trim was then committed to Richard Fitzgerald, with forty horsemen ; and all the gentlemen of the county were commanded to him. From thence the deputy and Brereton returned to Dublin. On the 1st of December they took the Castle of Kildare, and left twenty men to keep it ; but within six days it was retaken by the traitor, who went from thence to Trim, and retook^ it in two hours: he was accompanied with the number of sixty or eighty horsemen at the most, and about 300 kerne and galloglas ; and he ther robbed not only the same (towne of Trim), but also brente a great part thereof, and took all the cataill of the countrie theraboughtes.f

    On January 5, 1535, 700 men were sent by the deputy to keep Trim. — State Papers^ 2 pt. iii., p. 220.

    Internet Archive somenoticesofcas00butl, Chapter 90

    As the companion tells it

    Right beside the road here is Trim Castle in Meath. In 1534, after a rebel was driven off near here — the source calls him "a cowardly boy and traitor" — the castle and town were committed to Richard Fitzgerald with forty horsemen, and all the gentlemen of the county were commanded to assist him. But the rebel came back with sixty or eighty horsemen and about 300 kerne and galloglas, and retook the place in two hours. He robbed the town, burned a great part of it, and took all the cattle of the country around. On January 5, 1535, 700 men were sent by the deputy to hold it.

25. Two skulls found in Trim Castle ditch, 1830

    Trim · town · Meath · 1830

    In 1830 two skulls were found in the field under Trim Castle, which had formerly been the castle ditch, likely relics connected to the 1465 statute requiring severed heads of thieves to be displayed there.

    Read the passage

    * Two skulls were found in the year 1830, in the field under the castle, which was formerly the castle ditch. There were similar acts for Louth, the heads to be brought to the Portrieve of Athirdee (Ardee) ; for Dublin, the heads to be brought to the mayor of Dublin ; for Kildare, the heads to be brought to the sovereign of Kaas.

    84

    Internet Archive somenoticesofcas00butl, Chapter 68

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Trim in Meath, the castle still stands over the town. In 1830 two skulls were found in the field beneath it, which had once been the castle ditch. They may be relics of a 1465 statute that ordered the severed heads of thieves to be displayed here.

26. Wasting of O'Brien's Country by the Earl of March

    Thomond · street · Dublin · 1397

    Roger, Earl of March, Lord Lieutenant, with the Earl of Ormond's aid, wasted O'Brien's country, and at the winning of the chief's house knighted seven men including Sir Christopher Preston and Sir John Bedlow.

    Read the passage

    1397 — Roger, Earl of March, Lord Lieutenant of Ireland, with the aid of the Earl of Ormond, wasted O’Brien’s country ; and, at the winning of this chief’s house, he made seven knights, to wit — Sir Christopher Preston, Sir John Bedlow, Sir Edmund Loundres, Sir John Loundres. Sir William Nugent, W alter de la Hide, and Robert Cadell. — Marlb,

    1398 — Roger, Earl of March, the King’s Lieutenant was slain by the O’Bryns, at Kenlis, in Leinster, on St,

    Internet Archive somenoticesofcas00butl, Chapter 40

    As the companion tells it

    Along here in 1397, Roger, Earl of March and Lord Lieutenant of Ireland, with the aid of the Earl of Ormond, wasted O'Brien's country. At the taking of the chief's house, he knighted seven men: Sir Christopher Preston, Sir John Bedlow, Sir Edmund Loundres, Sir John Loundres, Sir William Nugent, Walter de la Hide, and Robert Cadell. The next year the O'Bryns killed Roger at Kenlis in Leinster.

27. Burning of the street of the sheep in Dublin

    Dublin · city · Dublin · 1489

    During conflict between the Earl of Ormond's son and Irish forces, the street of the sheep in Dublin was burned by the Lord Justice as part of the wider hostilities.

    Read the passage

    brother, and MacWilliam, of Clanrickard, marched at the head of the army in the county of the Butlers, and compelled the Butlers to give them submission and hostages ; took many of the Irish of Leinster prisoners, and destroyed Meath. The street of the sheep in Dublin was burned by the Lord Justice. A peace was afterwards concluded between them and the Lord Justice, each of them was to have the office of his own father ; and the deputyship, the sword of the king of England, and all belonging it, was to be given up to the Archbishop of Dublin, until the king should settle their disputes. The reason the Earl of Kildare resigned his office and refused to assist the English of Meath was, because they had not assisted him against the son of the Earl of Ormonde. The English of Meath endured many evils from the Earl of Kildare abandoning them, for they were universally plundered and burnt by the adjacent chieftains. — An, Four. M.

    1491 — About the latter end of this year, being in the month of November, the Earl of Kildare summoned a parliament at Trim, to be held on the Friday next after the feast of the Epiphany of our Lord ; but of the laws and acts there passed, there be none extant, that I know of. — Ware^s Annals Henry VII.

    Internet Archive somenoticesofcas00butl, Chapter 81

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Dublin, this is the city where, in 1489, the street of the sheep was burned by the Lord Justice. It happened during a wider conflict. MacWilliam of Clanrickard marched an army into the county of the Butlers, compelled the Butlers to give submission and hostages, took many of the Irish of Leinster prisoner, and destroyed Meath. The Lord Justice burned the street of the sheep in Dublin as part of these hostilities. A peace was concluded afterwards, with each side to hold the office of his own father, and the deputyship and the sword of the king of England to be given up to the Archbishop of Dublin until the king should settle their disputes. The Earl of Kildare had resigned his office and refused to assist the English of Meath, because they had not assisted him against the son of the Earl of Ormonde. The English of Meath endured many evils from his abandoning them, as they were universally plundered and burnt by the adjacent chieftains.

28. Castle Jordan Destroyed by O'Conor

    Castlejordan · townland · Meath · 1540–1546

    In 1540, O'Conor broke into Castle Jordan, a king's castle, slew one of the ward, took the rest prisoner, and defaced the castle; the council later advised rebuilding its tower but little progress had been made by 1546.

    Read the passage

    * Skeffington’s camp was at Castle Iredayne, on the 24th of August, 1535.— Papers, V. ii. page 274. In 1540, O’Conor “brake a castle of the kings which was called Castell Gordan, slew one of the ward, and took the residue prisoners away with him, and hath defaced the Castell.” In the same year the council advised the king to rebuild the tower of Castle Jordan,

    Internet Archive somenoticesofcas00butl, Chapter 106

29. Confederate Remonstrance Delivered at Trim, 1643

    Trim · town · Meath · 1643

    In March 1643, four royal commissioners met at Trim with confederate Catholic agents including Lord Gormanstown and Sir Robert Talbot, who delivered a written remonstrance of grievances seeking redress.

    Read the passage

    1643^ — March 17th — Four of the king’s commissioners, the Earls of Clanrickarde and Roscommon, the Viscount Moore, and Sir Maurice Eustace, met at Trim, with the Lord Gormanstown, Sir Robert Talbot, Sir Lucas Dillon, and John Walsh, agents for the confederate Roman Catholics; and received from them in writing a remonstrance, containing the particulars of their grievances, and desiring redress of the same Cartels Ormonde^ i., 804.

    1643 — February — Sir Richard Grenville was governor of Trim. He fought the battle of Rochonnell, (Rathconnell, Westmeath,) in which he defeated General Preston. — Fieri West Meath^ 1 00.

    Internet Archive somenoticesofcas00butl, Chapter 108

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Trim, this is where, on the 17th of March 1643, four of the king's commissioners met confederate Catholic agents. The Earls of Clanrickarde and Roscommon, Viscount Moore, and Sir Maurice Eustace came to Trim, where Lord Gormanstown, Sir Robert Talbot, Sir Lucas Dillon, and John Walsh handed them a written remonstrance setting out their grievances and seeking redress. A month earlier, in February 1643, Sir Richard Grenville was governor of Trim. He fought and defeated General Preston at Rathconnell in Westmeath.

30. Cromwell's forces take castle between Trim and Drogheda

    Trim · town · Meath · 1649

    Cromwell's letter to the speaker states he possessed a castle deserted by the enemy between Trim and Drogheda upon the Boyne, following the storming of Drogheda.

    Read the passage

    “Since this great mercy (the storming of Drogheda) vouchsafed to ns, I sent a party of horse and dragoons to Dundalk, which the enemy quitted, and we are possessed of, as also ^another castle they deserted between Trim and Drogheda, upon the Boyne. I sent a party of horse and dragoons to a house within five miles of Trim (Trubly) ; there being then in Trim some Scots companies, which the Lord of Ardes brought to assist the Lord of Ormond ; but, upon the news of Drogheda having fallen into our hands, they ran away, leaving their great guns behind them, which we also have possessed.”

    There is a tradition that Scurlock, of Scurlockstown, with his brother of the Rock, had a skirmish with Cromwell at a hill near Grange, since called Cromwell’s hill.

    Internet Archive somenoticesofcas00butl, Chapter 113

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Trim, you are on ground Cromwell moved through in 1649. After the storming of Drogheda, he sent horse and dragoons toward Dundalk, and his letter to the speaker says he was also possessed of another castle the enemy deserted between Trim and Drogheda, upon the Boyne. There were then in Trim some Scots companies brought by the Lord of Ardes to assist the Lord of Ormond, but upon news of Drogheda falling, they ran away, leaving their great guns behind. There is a tradition that Scurlock of Scurlockstown, with his brother of the Rock, had a skirmish with Cromwell at a hill near Grange, since called Cromwell's hill.

31. De Lacy granted Meath by Henry II at Wexford

    Wexford · town · Wexford · 1172

    In 1172, Hugh de Lacy obtained a grant of Meath from Henry II at Wexford for the service of fifty knights, in as full a manner as it had been held by Murcard Humelachlin, the last prince to hold undivided Meath.

    Read the passage

    1172 — Hugh de Lacy obtained at Wexford, from Henry II., for the service of fifty knights, a grantf of Meath, in as full and ample a manner as it was possessed by Murcard Humelachlin.J This territory, extending

    * There seems to have been some old ecclesiastical connexion between Trim and Durrow. A monastical seal, of the 14th century, was lately found near Mullingar, bearing on the obverse the inscription — “ Sigill. M. Abbatis S. Marie de Truim and on the reverse — “ Si. M. Ab. S. Marie de Durmag it is figured in the Dublin Penny Journal.

    Internet Archive somenoticesofcas00butl, Chapter 2

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Wexford, this is where, in 1172, Hugh de Lacy obtained from Henry II a grant of Meath for the service of fifty knights. The grant gave him Meath in as full and ample a manner as it was possessed by Murcard Humelachlin, the last prince to hold the undivided territory.

32. Excommunication Pronounced at St. Patrick's Church, Trim

    Trim · town · Meath

    The Archdeacon caused the sheriff of Meath and others to be excommunicated in the church of St. Patrick of Trim over a dispute about threshed corn taken for the king's provisioning at Scurlogstown.

    Read the passage

    Archidiaconum quod ipse excommunicare fecit in ecclesia sancti Patricii de Trim vicecomitem Midiae et predictum servientem et similiter trituratores et custodes predictos nominatum, et etiam alios quoscumque qui dictis bladis attachiandis et triturandis se intromiserunt, seu consilium ^ ad hoc faciendum prestarunt, et nihilominus per suam procuracionem venire fecit ad predictam villam de Scurlaggeston, Galfridum de Trim, Johannem Corkan^' de de Trim, Johannem de Kilcoly, capellanos, Adam Fynchyn Henricum Markes et Johannem le Cauntour de Trim clericos ad pronunciandum ibidem sententiam excommunicationis in predictos vicecomitem servientem et alios in forma predicta adgrave dampnum et contemptum domini^ Kegis manifestum, necnon et retardacionem providencie sue predicte ; predictus Willielmus Burgeis venit et dicit quod ipse non fuit ad hospicium tempore quo predictus serviens attachiavit blada sua predicta, set quando ipse venit ad hospicium ipse venit ad hagardum suum predictum et invenit ibidem predictos trituratores et custodes blada sua triturantes, et quesivit ab eis quis eos venire fecit ibidem et qua de causa blada sua trituravit. Et cum ipsi custodes et trituratores retulissent ei quod ipsi appositi fuerunt ad blada ilia trituranda per predictum servientem domini Regis pro expedicione providencie predicte ipse statim adivit predictum Archidiaconum de quo ipse hagardum predictum emerat, demonstrans ei qualiter blada sua in hagardo predicto triturata fuerint ad opus domini Regis, et asserens se eidein Archidiacono non posse respondere de summa pecunie in qua ei * Corkan, i.e. Corkevan — W. R.

    Internet Archive somenoticesofcas00butl, Chapter 162

    As the companion tells it

    Up ahead is Trim, where St Patrick's Church once stood, and in that church the Archdeacon pronounced a sentence of excommunication against the sheriff of Meath and several others. The quarrel was over threshed corn. The sheriff's men had seized grain in a haggard belonging to William Burgeis and threshed it for the king's provisioning at Scurlogstown. William came home to find them at work and asked who had sent them; they told him it was done by the king's servant for the king's own supply. William had bought that haggard from the Archdeacon, and he went straight to him to show what had been done. The Archdeacon's response was to bring chaplains and clerics to Scurlogstown to pronounce the sentence, naming the sheriff, the servant, the threshers, the keepers, and anyone who had counselled the taking of the grain. He held it a manifest contempt of the king and a delay of his provisioning.

33. Geoffrey de Geneville becomes a friar and dies at Trim monastery

    Trim · town · Meath · 1308–1314

    In 1308 Geoffrey de Geneville resigned the lordship of Meath and entered himself as a friar at the Dominican monastery in Trim; he died there on 21 October 1314 and was interred in his order of Friars Preachers.

    Read the passage

    1314 — The Lord Geoffrey de Geneville died on the 21st of October, and was interred here in his order of Friars Preachers. — Pern,

    1315 — A general chapter of the order was held here.

    Internet Archive somenoticesofcas00butl, Chapter 133

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Trim, this is where Geoffrey de Geneville gave up the lordship of Meath in 1308 and became a friar in the Dominican monastery. He died there on 21 October 1314 and was buried among his order of Friars Preachers. The next year, 1315, the order held a general chapter here.

34. Hugh Tyrrell re-edifies the ruined Castle of Trim

    Trim Castle · monument · Meath · 1173–1174

    After the destruction, Hugh Tyrrell returned to the ruined Castle of Trim to rebuild it before Hugh de Lacy's return from England.

    Read the passage

    To destroy this castle, Roderick O’Connor, king^ of Connaught, assembled a large army ; and Tyrrell having despatched messengers to Earl Strongbow, beseeching him to come to his aid, and finding himself too y^ak to resist the multitudes brought against him, abandoned the castle and burned it. The Irish king, having thus obtained his object, returned to his own country : and Earl Strongbow, who was advancing to the relief of Trim, meeting on his way with intelligence that the castle was burned, marched on, and when he came there he found neither castle nor house to lodge in ; wherefore he made no stay, but pursued the enemy and fell upon their rear, of whom 150 were slain ; which done, he returned to Dublin, and Hugh Tyrrell to the ruined Castle of Trim, to re-edify the same, before Hugh de Lacy’s return out of England.- — Began— Carevfs TransL

    Giraldus Cambrensis says, that on hearing of this inroad of Roderick into Meath, Raymond le Gros, — although the news reached him at Wexford the day of his marriage with Basilia, sister of Earl Strongbow, — marched the next day to oppose him — not being overcome either by love or by wine ; that Roderick, who had had previous experience of his valour, retreated at his approach ; and that Raymond repaired the castles of Meath f — that is to say, of Trym and of Duleek — which

    Internet Archive somenoticesofcas00butl, Chapter 4

    As the companion tells it

    Right beside you here is Trim Castle. In 1173 Roderick O'Connor, king of Connaught, gathered a large army to destroy it. Hugh Tyrrell sent messengers to Earl Strongbow begging for help, but finding himself too weak to resist the numbers against him, he abandoned the castle and burned it himself. Roderick got what he came for and went home. Strongbow, marching to relieve Trim, learned on the way that the castle was already burned. He arrived to find neither castle nor house to lodge in, so he made no stay but pursued the enemy, fell on their rear, and killed 150 of them. Then he returned to Dublin. Hugh Tyrrell came back here to the ruined castle and set about rebuilding it before Hugh de Lacy's return from England. Giraldus Cambrensis adds that Raymond le Gros, hearing of Roderick's inroad into Meath on the very day of his marriage to Basilia, sister of Earl Strongbow, marched the next day, "not being overcome either by love or by wine." Roderick retreated at his approach, and Raymond repaired the castles of Trim and Duleek.

35. Ormond's March to Trim After Defeat at Rathmines

    Trim · town · Meath · 1649

    Following the disastrous battle of Rathmines in July 1649, Lord Ormond ordered Colonel Warren's regiment to march to Trim for its defence, and himself later marched with 300 horse to Trim to gather forces for a renewed attempt on Dublin.

    Read the passage

    1649 — July 28th — From the unlucky field of battle at Rathmines, Lord Ormond sent notice of the disaster to the forces under Lord Dillon, amounting to 2,500 men, at the other side of the Lifiey, (who knew nothing of what was done till the action was over), with orders for Col. Warren to march with his regiment to Trim, and Colonel Wall with his to Drogheda; for the security of those places, which he imagined would soon be attacked by Jones. Seven days after the defeat, the indefatigable marquis set out from Kilkenny (to which place he had retreated), and marched with 300 horse to Trim ; whither he summoned from every quarter all the forces that could be got together, resolving to make a second attempt upon Dublin ; which enterprise now appeared to him more feasible than ever. — Ibid, 81-2.

    I then went to Drogheda, where I had been but a

    Internet Archive somenoticesofcas00butl, Chapter 111

    As the companion tells it

    You are coming through Trim, a town in Meath that became a rallying point after disaster in the summer of 1649. On July 28th, after the unlucky field of battle at Rathmines, Lord Ormond sent orders to Colonel Warren to march his regiment here for the security of the place, expecting Jones would soon attack. Seven days after that defeat, Ormond set out from Kilkenny and marched with 300 horse to Trim, summoning forces from every quarter for a second attempt upon Dublin.

36. Prisoners conveyed from battle to Castle Carbury

    Trim · town · Meath · 1466

    After the defeat of the Earl of Desmond's forces, Tiege O'Conor conveyed the earl and a great part of the army, including the Prior of the House of Blessed Virgin Mary at Trim, to Castle Carbury as prisoners.

    Read the passage

    of ill-success to the English, for the earl and his English were defeated the next day, ' and the earl himself was taken prisoner, and stripped of his arms and armour; Tiege O’Conor conveyed the earl, his brother-in-law, and a great part of the army along with him to Castle Carbuiy, Christopher Plunkett, and the Prior of the House of (the Blessed Virgin) Mary at Trim, William Oge Nugent, Barnwall, and many others along with them : but the English of Dublin came and carried off all that had after this defeat been sent unto the Castle of Carbury — Annals oj Four Masters.

    1468 — Statutes made in the parliament held at Drogheda, on Wednesday, after the feast of Saint James the apostle, before the Earl of Worcester:

    Internet Archive somenoticesofcas00butl, Chapter 70

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Trim, this town had a House of the Blessed Virgin Mary whose prior became a prisoner of war. In 1466, after the Earl of Desmond and his English forces were defeated, Tiege O'Conor took the earl, his brother-in-law, and a great part of the army as prisoners to Castle Carbury. The earl was stripped of his arms and armour. Among those carried off were Christopher Plunkett, William Oge Nugent, Barnwall, and the prior from Trim. But the English of Dublin later came and carried off all who had been sent to Castle Carbury after the defeat.

37. Prisoners taken at Trim by O'Connor Faly, rescued at Carbury

    Carbury · townland · Kildare · 1466

    In 1466 O'Connor Faly took prisoners including Christopher Plunkett and the prior of St Mary's house at Trim, but the English of Dublin recaptured all the prisoners sent to the castle of Carbury.

    Read the passage

    with them ; but the English of Dublin came and carried off all the prisoners that had been sent to the castle of Carbury, in despite of their enemies. — Four M.

    1467 — 7th King Edward IV. it was enacted by Parliament, that all grants made by the king, or by King Henry VI. should be null and void, but not to be prejudicial to any grant made in favour of Christopher, abbot of this monastery; nor to the said Abbot Christopher, James Whyte, Francis Whyte, James Acton, and John Whitchurch, of the town of Trim, respecting any pardon heretofore granted to them; and 1472, 12th of same king, an act passed, in the parliament held at Naas, which confirmed letters patent granting to this abbey two water mills, with the entire manor of Mathreene [Moyare?J in the parish of Trim, and all timber and underwood lying thereon, for building the said mills ; also the custom and services of the villains of the manor of Trim ; for the purpose of erecting and supporting a perpetual wax light before the image of the Virgin in the church of the said house, and for supporting four other wax lights before the said image on the mass of St. Mary; also for confirming other letters patent granting the sum of £10 to find a perpetual mass in the said house for the repose of the souls of his brother and progenitors ; and further for confirming a grant made to the said house by Richard Duke of York of fifty-one acres and a-half, with half a stang and thirteen perches of land in Trim, a field called Porchfield, and many other particulars.

    Internet Archive somenoticesofcas00butl, Chapter 128

38. Richard Duke of York holds court at Trim Castle

    Trim · town · Meath · 1449–1450

    In 1449-50 Richard, Duke of York, held his court in his hereditary castle at Trim, probably restoring it to its former splendour, and was a benefactor to St. Mary's abbey, giving it the field called Porch-field.

    Read the passage

    native Irish, and reduced them to obedience without being obliged to use force ; and he so endeared himself to them, that, with the exception of the family of Ormonde, they were always devoted to the service of himself and his family, even in their greatest misfortunes. In 1449-50, this prince held his court in his hereditary castle at Trim, when he probably restored the castle to its former splendour. He was a benefactor to St. Mary’s abbey, to which house he gave amongst other benefactions afield called Porch-field ; and the tower of the abbey, now called the Yellow Steeple, m ay probably be assigned to this time ; the ch urch of the abbey, according to Pern bridge, had been burned down in 1361.

    Statutes^ ordinances^ ^c., made in the parliament at Drogheda^ on Friday before the feast of St. Mark the Evangelist. — 28 Henry VI.

    Internet Archive somenoticesofcas00butl, Chapter 62

    As the companion tells it

    Up ahead is Trim, in County Meath. Back in 1449 and 1450, Richard, Duke of York, held his court here in his hereditary castle, probably restoring it to its former splendour. He won the native Irish to obedience without force, and they stayed devoted to him and his family through everything. He was a benefactor to St. Mary's abbey, giving it a field called Porch-field, and the tower now called the Yellow Steeple may date from his time. The abbey church itself had been burned down in 1361.

39. Richard Plunkett's Latin and Irish Dictionary written at Trim

    Trim · town · Meath · 1662

    In 1662 the Rev. Richard Plunkett, a poor brother of the Franciscan convent at Trim, wrote a Latin and Irish Dictionary, copies of which survive in Marsh's Library and Trinity College Dublin.

    Read the passage

    In 1662, the Rev. Richard Plunkett, a poor brother of the Franciscan convent at Trim, wrote a Latin and Irish Dictionary, now in Mark’s Library. There is also a copy in the Library of Trinity College, Dublin. — O'Reilly's hnsh Writers,

    This house was included in the Franciscan custodia of Drogheda, together with the friaries or loca of Drogheda, Dundalk, Mnltifernan, Down, and Carrickfergus.

    Internet Archive somenoticesofcas00butl, Chapter 138

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Trim in Meath, this is where the Reverend Richard Plunkett, a poor brother of the Franciscan convent here, wrote a Latin and Irish dictionary in 1662. Copies of it survive in Marsh's Library and Trinity College Dublin. The Franciscan house at Trim belonged to the custody of Drogheda, along with friaries at Drogheda, Dundalk, Multifernan, Down, and Carrickfergus.

40. Statutes of the Trim parliament against the Earl of Kildare's pretended parliament

    Trim · town · Meath · 1478

    A parliament held at Trim declared void a pretended parliament summoned by Gerald, Earl of Kildare, at Naas, along with all its acts, ordering destruction of related records under penalty.

    Read the passage

    1478 — Statutes of the parliament held at Trim, on Triday, after the feast of All Saints, 18 Edward lY., before Henry, Lord Grey, deputy to George, the king’s son, adjourned to Drogheda, and after to Dublin :

    At the prayer of the commons, whereas, the king by letters patent and privy seal, directed to Gerald, Earl of Kildare, supposing him to be the Justice of Ireland, charged and commanded him to desist from exercising the authority belonging to said oflSce, and not to commence, summon, hold, or prorogue any parliament in that land, or to lay any tallage or tax on the people thereof; commanding also, by letters under the privy seal, the mayor and jurats of Dublin to make proclamation that none of his

    Internet Archive somenoticesofcas00butl, Chapter 76

    As the companion tells it

    Up ahead is Trim, a town in Meath where a parliament sat in 1478, before Henry, Lord Grey, deputy to George, the king's son. That parliament was held on Friday after the feast of All Saints, in the 18th year of Edward the Fourth, and it was later adjourned to Drogheda and then to Dublin. At the prayer of the commons, it declared void a pretended parliament that Gerald, Earl of Kildare, had summoned at Naas, along with all its acts. The king had written to Kildare by letters patent and privy seal, telling him to desist from exercising the authority of the Justice of Ireland and not to summon any parliament or lay any tallage on the people.

41. Surrender of Trimbleston Castle to Colonel Jones

    Trimbleston · street · Dublin · 1647

    During Jones's pursuit of Preston in 1647, the garrison of Trimbleston Castle sought a parley and surrendered as Jones was about to march away in pursuit of Preston.

    Read the passage

    Jones had advice of his motion, and guessing at his design, resolved to follow him ; he had actually given orders for the drums to beat and march, when the garrison of Trimbleston desired a parley, and surrendered. He marched with so much expedition that he overtook Preston the next day^ at Dungan-hill,t two miles from Linche’s Knock (Summerhill). Preston drew up his men in good order upon the hill, having the advantage of ground, wind, and sun on his side, and planted his ordnance so as it might be most servicable to him, in an engagement that was to decide the fate of Dublin. The English forces were very unruly, but eager for action, and those in the van began to fight whilst the rest of the army were on the march ; and in that manner every division did as they pleased, without minding orders. It happened favorably for them, that Preston was weaker in horse ; and his cavalry giving way at the first charge, broke in upon the foot, and disordered the whole array. A neighbouring bog tempted the Irish foot to retire thither for refuge, whilst their horse marched off with very little loss and unmolested. The bog was too small to afford them pro-

    * 8th of August, 1647. — Irish Rebell.

    Internet Archive somenoticesofcas00butl, Chapter 110

    As the companion tells it

    Along here in Trimbleston stood a castle whose garrison gave itself up in 1647, during Colonel Jones's pursuit of Preston. Jones had news of Preston's march and meant to follow him. He had actually given orders for the drums to beat and the army to move when the garrison of Trimbleston desired a parley and surrendered. Jones then marched with such speed that he overtook Preston the next day at Dungan-hill, two miles from Summerhill. Preston drew up his men on the hill, having the advantage of ground, wind, and sun, and planted his ordnance to decide the fate of Dublin. The English forces were unruly but eager, and the van began to fight while the rest were still on the march, each division doing as it pleased without minding orders. It fell favourably for them that Preston was weaker in horse. His cavalry gave way at the first charge, broke in upon the foot, and disordered the whole array. A neighbouring bog tempted the Irish foot to retire there for refuge, while their horse marched off with very little loss and unmolested. The bog was too small to afford them cover.

42. Abbot Christopher acquitted of cattle theft at Trimleston

    Trimleston · street · Dublin · 1461

    In 1461 Abbot Christopher was indicted for feloniously taking with an armed force four cows from Sir Robert Barnewall at Trimleston, but the jury acquitted him.

    Read the passage

    1461 — Christopher was abbot, for in this year we find him indicted for feloniously taking, with an armed force, from Sir Eobert Barnewall, knt. at Trimleston,^ four cows, each valued at forty pence ; the jury acquitted him.

    1461 — Abbot ^Christopher had licence to absent himself for one year, and in the meantime to receive the tithes, &c., belonging to the house. — Bot. Pat. 1 Ed. IV.

    Internet Archive somenoticesofcas00butl, Chapter 128

43. Archbishop of Armagh's claim to Trim Castle site

    Trim · town · Meath

    The See of Armagh claimed ancient rights over the castle, town and bridge of Trim, said to originate with Feidelmid's donation of the region to Luman and Saint Patrick. Saint Patrick reputedly built a church in Trim twenty-two years before the founding of Armagh.

    Read the passage

    * The origin of this claim of the See of Armagh to the Castle and Town of Trim, is of very great antiquity. Tirechan, as quoted by Ussher, [Pnmorc^ea, p. 854,] says, that Feidelmid dedicated to Liiman and Saint Patrick the whole region about Trim, with all his possessions, and with all his substance, and with all his progeny ; and that Saint Patrick built a church in Trim, twenty-two years before the foundation of the church of Armagh. With these assertions Dr. Lanigan [vol. i. 223] is so much displeased, that he is willing to bring down Luman to a much later age, and to ascribe the whole story of Fiedelmid’s donation to Luman and Saint Patrick, to a dispute about this property between the Archbishop of Armagh and the Bishop of Meath. The Bishops of Meath are still paid by the treasury £3 15s. a-year, out of the manor of Trim.

    Tirechan wrote the life of Saint Patrick from the mouth or book of his master. Bishop Ultan, of Ardbraccan, who died A.i). 656 — Ware's Writers. Even if the claim is not more ancient than his time, it is still of respectable antiquity. In the reign of Edward III. Richard Sidegrave had custody of the site of the Castle of Trim, as part of the temporals of the Bishop of Meath. — Pipe Roll.

    Internet Archive somenoticesofcas00butl, Chapter 57

    As the companion tells it

    Passing through Trim, the See of Armagh once claimed ancient rights over the castle, town, and bridge. The claim was said to go back to Feidelmid's donation of the region to Luman and Saint Patrick, who reputedly built a church here 22 years before the founding of Armagh. In the reign of Edward III, Richard Sidegrave held custody of the castle site as part of the temporals of the Bishop of Meath.

44. Coinage authorized to be struck within Castle of Trim

    Trim Castle · monument · Meath · 1478

    By act of parliament, Henry, Lord Grey, was authorized to strike and coin silver coins within the Castle of Trim according to specified fineness and alloy.

    Read the passage

    Deputy, shall enjoy, use, hold, exercise, and carry into use and execution, by himself or his deputy, the said liberty, by the name of seneschal and treasurer of the said liberty of Meath, in as ample a manner and forms, with all manner of rights, commodities, and profits, as ever any seneschal or treasurer heretofore occupied and enjoyed the same; and that all manner of acts, statutes, ordinances, or grants heretofore made to avoid, or destroy the said liberty, be of no eflPect in law: And further, this act confirms a grant made by the king, of the ofiice of seneschal and treasurer of Meath, to the said Henry, dated Westminster, the 3rd day of March, in the 17th year of his reign, during the life of the said Henry ; and by this act the said Henry, by himself or his officers, may for the future strike and coin all manner of coins of silver, within the Castle of Trim, according tosugh fyness and alloy as in the statute for that purpose is provided.— Act in Simonas Appendix.

    1478 — Statutes of the parliament held at Trim, on Triday, after the feast of All Saints, 18 Edward lY., before Henry, Lord Grey, deputy to George, the king’s son, adjourned to Drogheda, and after to Dublin :

    Internet Archive somenoticesofcas00butl, Chapter 76

    As the companion tells it

    Right here at Trim Castle, in 1478, a parliament met on the Friday after the feast of All Saints, in the 18th year of Edward the Fourth. Before it stood Henry, Lord Grey, deputy to George, the king's son. An act of that parliament confirmed a grant the king had made at Westminster on the 3rd of March in the 17th year of his reign, giving Henry the office of seneschal and treasurer of Meath for his lifetime. By the same act, Henry, by himself or his officers, was empowered to strike and coin all manner of silver coins within this castle, according to such fineness and alloy as the statute for that purpose provided. The parliament was adjourned to Drogheda, and after to Dublin. So this fortress, which you see before you, was for a time an authorised mint, turning out silver under the authority of a parliamentary statute and a royal grant.

45. Commons of Meath assemble at Trim to grant subsidy

    Trim · town · Meath

    The commons of Meath assembled at Trim and granted Lord Delvin 13s. 4d. from every ploughland, along with contributions ordered from numerous towns including Duleek, Ratoath, Navan, Slane, Kells, Athboy and others, to fund resistance against Irish raiders.

    Read the passage

    For the protection of Meath, James, Earl of Desmond^ with 5,000 horse and foot, marched from Munster into the territory of the Berminghams at Carbry, and laid it waste; he staid there thirteen days at the charge of the county, and his expenses were guaranteed to him by Richard Nugent, Baron of Delvyn, seneschal of Meath, who gave himself up to the earl as security for the money. The commons of Meath assembled at Trym, granted the Lord Delvyn 13s. 4d. from every ploughland,! and ordered

    * O’ Conor claimed 3s. 4d. from every plough-land in Meath, which claim was discharged in 1540. — State Papers, 11. 328.

    Internet Archive somenoticesofcas00butl, Chapter 53

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Trim, this is where the commons of Meath once assembled to raise money against raiders. James, Earl of Desmond had marched from Munster with 5,000 horse and foot, laid waste the Berminghams' territory at Carbry, and stayed 13 days at the county's charge. Richard Nugent, Baron of Delvyn and seneschal of Meath, guaranteed the earl's expenses and gave himself up as security. So the commons gathered here and granted Lord Delvyn 13s. 4d. from every ploughland.

46. De Lacy fixes his seat at Trim, head of the lordship of Meath

    Trim · town · Meath · 1172

    Having distributed large districts to followers, Hugh de Lacy reserved the greater portion of his vast principality of Meath for himself and made Trim his residence and the head of the lordship.

    Read the passage

    from the Shannon to the sea, appears to have had nearly the same bounds as the present diocese of Meath, and to have comprehended the counties of Meath and Westmeath, with part of the King’s County, and of Longford. Having given large districts to several of his friends and followers, (some of whose descendants are still in possession of portion of the original grants.) De Lacy reserved the greater portion of this vast principality to himself, and seems to have fixed upon Trim, which became the head of the lordship,"^ as his residence. — Here,

    In 1173 — He had already built a strong castle, environed with a deep and large ditch, and having furnished it with all necessary supplies, he departed for England, leaving it in the custody of Hugh Tyrrell.

    Internet Archive somenoticesofcas00butl, Chapter 3

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Trim, you are in the place Hugh de Lacy chose as the seat of his lordship of Meath. His principality stretched from the Shannon to the sea, covering Meath and Westmeath with parts of the King's County and Longford. He gave large districts to friends and followers, but reserved the greater portion for himself and fixed on Trim as his residence. By 1173 he had built a strong castle here, environed with a deep ditch, and having furnished it with supplies he departed for England, leaving it in the custody of Hugh Tyrrell.

47. Description of Trim's Stately Castle and Great Abbey

    Trim · town · Meath

    A contemporary account describes Trim as having stone houses built after the English fashion, divided into five streets, with the fairest and most stately castle in all Ireland, though almost decayed, and a great abbey belonging to Edward Cusack.

    Read the passage

    stone houses, buylded after the Englishe fashyon, and devyded into five faire streetes, and hath in it the fairest and most stately castle that her hath in all Ire-

    laund, almost decayed.

    Internet Archive somenoticesofcas00butl, Chapter 159

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Trim, a writer once called it a place of stone houses built after the English fashion, divided into five fair streets. It held, he said, the fairest and most stately castle in all Ireland, though almost decayed, and a great abbey belonging to Edward Cusack.

48. Earl of Kildare and others imprisoned in Trim Castle

    Trim Castle · monument · Meath · 1418

    In 1418 the Earl of Kildare, Sir Christopher Preston, and John Bedlow were arrested and committed to ward within the castle of Trim because they sought to communicate with the Prior of Kilmainham.

    Read the passage

    1418. — The Earl of Kildare, Sir Christopher Preston, and John Bedlow, were arrested and committed to ward within the castle of Trim, because they sought to communicate with the Prior of KilmainhamJ. — Marlh.

    On the 9th of January was exhibited in the town of

    Internet Archive somenoticesofcas00butl, Chapter 50

    As the companion tells it

    Right beside the road is Trim Castle. In 1418 the Earl of Kildare, Sir Christopher Preston, and John Bedlow were arrested and committed to ward within this castle, because they sought to communicate with the Prior of Kilmainham.

49. Gold seal ring of the Foxes found in Scarlet Street, Trim

    Scarlet Street · street · Louth · 1830

    In 1830 a gold seal ring engraved with the arms of the Foxes of Fox-hall, Co. Longford, was dug up in a garden behind a house in Scarlet-street, Trim, possibly linked to Christopher Fox, comptroller of the Trim mint.

    Read the passage

    In 1830, there was dug up in a garden behind a house in Scarlet-street, a gold seal ring, engraved with the arms of the Foxes, of Fox-hall, in the county of Longford — a sceptre in bend between two crowns, with a winged sceptre for the crest — it is now in the possession of Captain Barry Fox, of Anaghmore. It is possible that this money-maker, Christopher Fox, might have had a gold ring. At this time there was a goldsmith in Trim, for, in 1461, Sir Christopher Plunkett, of Dunsany, left by will to the church of Dunsany, a cope of gold, a chesipill (chasuble) of cloth of gold, a chesipill of rede satin, the cross and the tw'o censers, which was with the goldsmith of Trim.

    t Great was the credit of the Geraldines ever when the house of York prospered, and likewise the Butlers thrived under the blood of Lancaster, for which cause the Earl of Desmond remained many year, deputy to George, Duke of Clarence, his god-brother. — Campion.

    Internet Archive somenoticesofcas00butl

    As the companion tells it

    Along here in 1830, a gold seal ring was dug up in a garden behind a house in Scarlet Street. It was engraved with the arms of the Foxes of Fox-hall in County Longford, a sceptre in bend between two crowns, with a winged sceptre for the crest. The ring may have belonged to Christopher Fox, the money-maker who was comptroller of the Trim mint. It is now in the possession of Captain Barry Fox of Anaghmore. There was a goldsmith in Trim around this time, for in 1461 Sir Christopher Plunkett of Dunsany left by will to the church of Dunsany a cope of gold, a chasuble of cloth of gold, a chasuble of red satin, the cross and the two censers, which was with the goldsmith of Trim.

50. Lord Leonard Gray receives patent as Lord Deputy at Trim

    Trim · town · Meath · 1536

    On February 23, 1536, Lord Leonard Gray was in Trim, where he received his patent appointing him Lord Deputy of Ireland.

    Read the passage

    1 536 — Lord Leonard Gray was in Trim, February 23. It was in this town that he received his patent as Lord Deputy. — State Papers, pt. iii., p. 306.

    1537 — J. Alen, Master of the Rolls, in a certain information for our Sovereign Lord’s most honorable commissioners in Ireland, amongst other recommendations says :

    Internet Archive somenoticesofcas00butl, Chapter 91

    As the companion tells it

    Through Trim now, a town with a brief but notable entry in the records. On February 23, 1536, Lord Leonard Gray was here, and it was in this town that he received his patent as Lord Deputy of Ireland.

51. Oversized Measures Used at Naas

    Naas · town · Kildare · 1370–1373

    The inquiry found that at Naas, de Windsor used measures so large that a crannock of wheat by Meath measure was short a bushel, and the crannock of oats was short two bushels, defrauding those paying the cess.

    Read the passage

    the baronies of Margalyn and Slane, which were to be delivered at Slane — on receiving for each crannock of wheat, 5s. dd..^ and for each crannock of oats, 40d. That the crannocks of wheat were then worth 8s., and the crannocks of oats, 5s. ; and, that at Naas he had measures so large, that a crannock of wheat of Meath measure wanted a bushel, and the crannock of oats, two bushels.

    in Ireland is not equal to its promise. The crop looks well when green, and nobly when in ear ; but, the grain is small and shrivelled, and can scarcely be winnowed clean. He says, also, that the finest harvest was frequently lost by the wet and wind of the autumn.

    Internet Archive somenoticesofcas00butl, Chapter 31

    As the companion tells it

    Coming up through Naas now. An inquiry between 1370 and 1373 found that a man named de Windsor used measures here so large that a crannock of wheat by Meath measure was short a full bushel, and the crannock of oats was short two bushels. The crannocks of wheat were then worth 8 shillings and the oats 5 shillings, so the shortfall defrauded those paying the cess. The grain itself, one writer noted, was often small and shrivelled, and the finest harvest was frequently lost to the wet and wind of autumn.

52. Parliament Forced at Baldoyle to Extort Subsidy

    Baldoyle · townland · Dublin · 1370

    The Lord Lieutenant summoned a parliament at Baldoyle, a place with no buildings except one small chapel, specifically to force members through discomfort to agree to a large subsidy demand.

    Read the passage

    That the said Lord Lieutenant summoned a parliament at Baldoyle, where there were no buildings, except one small chapel ; and, that he chose that place for the pur-

    Internet Archive somenoticesofcas00butl, Chapter 32

53. Pretended parliament held at Naas declared void

    Naas · town · Kildare · 1478

    Gerald, Earl of Kildare, summoned a pretended parliament to be held at Naas contrary to the king's command, and it was later declared void with all its acts annulled.

    Read the passage

    subjects should pay any subsidy or tax to the said earl; yet, contrary to the said high command, the said earl summoned a pretended parliament, to be held before him at Naas, the Friday next after the feast of Saint Petronilla, last past [31st May,] and then commenced and continued the said pretended parliament, proceeded in and often times adjourned and prorogued ; in which pretended parliament, divers acts were made, and a subsidy granted contrary to the king’s commands, and to the destruction of the king’s faithful subjects: whereupon it is enacted, that the said pretended parliament and all its acts be void and of no eflfect in law ; and all letters patent and other acts done under the king’s seal, and all other acts arising out of the proceedings of same be void, and of none effect ; and the judges and officers of the king’s courts shall cause all statutes, ordinances, provisions, &c., &c., made in the said pretended parliament, to be cancelled and destroyed within fifteen days of the proclamation, under penalty of £60. And if any person possess any parchment roll of the said pretended parliament, they shall carry same to Thomas Dowdall, clerk of the rolls, within thirteen days after proclamation, under penalty of being declared felons attainted; the judges of the king’s bench authorised to inquire into the matter. — Beth. Coll.

    Ten shillings granted out of every ploughland in Meath, Dublin, Louth, and Kildare, as well from the hospitallers, and those exempt as not exempt. The members of the Commons House to have the nomination of the collectors. The subsidy to be employed in paying soldiers and lancers for the defence of the said laud. The knights of counties

    Internet Archive somenoticesofcas00butl, Chapter 77

    As the companion tells it

    Coming up towards Naas now, the town in Kildare. Back in 1478, this was the setting for an act of defiance that the crown refused to let stand. Gerald, Earl of Kildare, summoned what was later called a pretended parliament, to be held before him at Naas, on the Friday after the feast of Saint Petronilla, which was the 31st of May. He did this contrary to the king's command. The parliament was commenced and continued, adjourned and prorogued several times. In it, divers acts were made, and a subsidy was granted, against the king's commands and, as the record puts it, to the destruction of the king's faithful subjects. The response was total. It was enacted that the said pretended parliament and all its acts be void and of no effect in law. All letters patent and other acts done under the king's seal, and all acts arising from the proceedings, were declared void. The judges and officers of the king's courts were ordered to cause all statutes, ordinances, and provisions made in that pretended parliament to be cancelled and destroyed within 15 days of proclamation, under penalty of 60 pounds. Anyone found possessing a parchment roll of the proceedings had to carry it to Thomas Dowdall, clerk of the rolls, within 13 days after proclamation, or face being declared felons attainted. The judges of the king's bench were authorised to inquire into the matter. The subsidy itself was ten shillings from every ploughland in Meath, Dublin, Louth, and Kildare, taken from the hospitallers and those exempt as well as those not exempt. The members of the Commons House were to nominate the collectors. The money was to pay soldiers and lancers for the defence of the land. None of it stood.

54. Silver gilt brooch of the three kings of Cologne found in castle yard

    Trim Castle · monument · Meath

    A large silver gilt brooch engraved with the names of the three kings of Cologne was dug up in the castle yard at Trim, possibly brought by German students.

    Read the passage

    There was lately dug up in the castle yard a large silver gilt brooch, engraved with the names of the three kings of Cologne — Jasper, Melcair, and Balticar ; it may have been brought over by some of these German students.

    By statute, 1458, 36 Hen. 6. — All grants of absency, made by the king, to beneficed persons who do not keep residency continually in their proper persons, are declared null and void unless that it be by authority of parliament, except students, pilgrims, and persons suing for reformation of their benefices.

    Internet Archive somenoticesofcas00butl, Chapter 121

    As the companion tells it

    Right here at Trim Castle, a large silver gilt brooch was dug up in the castle yard, engraved with the names of the three kings of Cologne — Jasper, Melcair, and Balticar. It may have been brought over by German students. A statute of 1458, under Henry the 6th, declared all grants of absence to beneficed persons null and void unless made by authority of parliament, with exceptions for students, pilgrims, and persons suing for reformation of their benefices.

55. Tomb of John Gregg, first Vicar of Trim, restored in the church

    Trim · town · Meath · 1629

    A tomb in the old chancel of St. Patrick's church, Trim, bearing an inscription for John Gregg, Dean of Lismore and first Vicar of Trim who died in 1629, and William Griffith, next Vicar, was restored by piecing together broken fragments found scattered in the churchyard.

    Read the passage

    t On a tomb in the old chancel, which has been lately restored by putting together the broken pieces which were in different places in the church-yard, is the following inscription : — Here lye y® bodies of John Greg, Dean of Lismore, and first Vicar of Trim, who dyed January 21, 1629 ; and William Griffith, next Vicar of Trim, who dyed .” The

    blank left for the date has never been filled up ; he probably died in the troubles that succeeded 1641.

    Internet Archive somenoticesofcas00butl, Chapter 122

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Trim, in the old chancel of St. Patrick's church, a tomb has been restored from broken fragments found scattered across the churchyard. Its inscription reads: "Here lye the bodies of John Gregg, Dean of Lismore, and first Vicar of Trim, who dyed January 21, 1629; and William Griffith, next Vicar of Trim, who dyed." Griffith's death date was left blank and never filled in. He probably died in the troubles that followed 1641.

56. Trim as Garrison Town Under Essex's Campaign

    Trim · town · Meath · 1599

    In 1599, Sir John Harrington describes going to Trim, the place appointed for the garrison, and lodging at Mr. Robert Hammond's house, the Portreeve of Trim.

    Read the passage

    Dublin, went to Trim, the place appointed for our garrison ;* and from thence have visited Navan and Ardbraccan, where my Lord Lieutenant (Essex) lay yesterday and the day before, and meant to go thence to Brennys.f I lie here at Mr. Eobert Hammon’sJ house, who is this year Portreffe of Trim, as much in effect as Mayor. He shews the greatest gratitude to me and to all my friends for my sake ; that, to my remembrance, no man hath done more : yet was he not beholden to my father for one foot of his living, but only for his breeding.’’ — Letter to T, Comhe — Nugce Antiquce,

    * 1599 — Horse at Trim, Sir Griffin Markham, ... 50

    Internet Archive somenoticesofcas00butl, Chapter 102

    As the companion tells it

    Coming up now is Trim, a town that in 1599 was appointed as the place for the garrison under Essex's campaign. Sir John Harrington wrote of arriving here and lodging at the house of Mr. Robert Hammond, who was Portreeve of Trim that year, as much in effect as mayor. Harrington said Hammond showed the greatest gratitude to him and all his friends for his sake, more than any man he could remember. From Trim, Harrington noted that Essex had lain at Navan and Ardbraccan the day before and the day before that, and meant to go thence to Brennys.

57. Deputy Marshal's Extortions at Trim Session

    Trim · town · Meath · 1370–1373

    John Northampton, Deputy Marshal of Ireland, at a session held in Trim, extorted 10 marks from Sir John Hussey and twenty cows from Adam de la Mare, along with other gifts from various persons.

    Read the passage

    And, that John Northampton, Deputy Marshal of Ireland, at the said session of Trim, extorted 10 marks from Sir John Hussey; and twenty cows from Adam de la Mare ; and many other gifts from other persons. — Eymer.

    1373. — The seneschal of the liberty of Meath, and the sheriff of the cross, were ordered to make proclamation that no money should be levied against the will of the people, without the special order of the king ; and, that all offending should be arrested.— - CL 46, Ed. III.

    Internet Archive somenoticesofcas00butl, Chapter 33

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Trim, this is where John Northampton, Deputy Marshal of Ireland, held a session around 1370 and extorted 10 marks from Sir John Hussey, 20 cows from Adam de la Mare, and gifts from many others. By 1373 the authorities had ordered the seneschal of the liberty of Meath and the sheriff of the cross to proclaim that no money be levied against the people's will without the king's special order, and that all offenders be arrested.

58. Geoffry de Geneville enters Dominican order at Trim

    Trim · town · Meath · 1308

    Roger de Mortimer and his wife Joan, heir of Meath, arrived in Ireland and took possession of Meath, with Sir Geoffry Geneville ceding it and entering the Friars' Preachers order at Trim.

    Read the passage

    1308 — On the eve of St. Simon and St. Jude (October 28th), Eoger de Mortimerf and his lady, Joan, right heir of Meath, daughter of Lord Peter, son of Sir Geolfry Geneville, arrived in Ireland. As soon as they landed they took possession of Meath — Sir Geoffry ceding it to them, and entering himself into the order of Friars’ Preachers, at Trym, the morrow after St. Edmund’s, the Archbishop’s day (November Ll).—Peinbridge.

    * Piers Gavesfbn, then Lord Lieutenant. Campion says that Gaveston bought the hearts of the soldiers of Ireland with his liberality ; that he subdued O’Brien ; and edified sundry castles, causeways, and bridges.

    Internet Archive somenoticesofcas00butl, Chapter 19

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Trim, this is where Sir Geoffry Geneville handed over the lordship of Meath. In 1308, Roger de Mortimer and his wife Joan arrived in Ireland. Joan was the right heir of Meath, granddaughter of Geoffry. They took possession of Meath, and Geoffry ceded it to them. He entered the Friars' Preachers order at Trim on the 20th of November that year.

59. Death of Edmund, Earl of March, at Trim

    Trim · town · Meath · 1425

    Edmund, Earl of March, died in Trim early in 1425, having held vast patrimony including Trim in Ireland among his many habitations across England, Wales, and Ireland.

    Read the passage

    Edmund, Earl of March, died in Trim, early in 1425. Of him Fuller writes: — “ Edmund Mortimer, son to Roger Mortimer, Earl of March, grandchild to Edmund Mortimer, Earl of March, and of Philippa, sole daughter of Lionel, Duke of Clarence, may pass with the charitable reader for prince, since he paid so dear for same, as will appear — I confess it impossible to fit his nativity with assurance, (having not hitherto read any record which reached it,) the rather because of the vastness of his patrimony and several habitations — In England, Clare Castle, with many other manors in Suffolk. In the Marches of Wales, whence he had his honors, Wigmore in Herefordshire, Ludlow in Shropshire.

    * In the reign of Henry VHI. , Callan was part of the royal demesnes, as parcel of the estate of the Earls of March, and was held by the Earl of Ormonde, as tenant to the crown ; at that time the inhabitants were after an English fashion — many of them. — State Papers^ iii. 281.

    Internet Archive somenoticesofcas00butl, Chapter 54

    As the companion tells it

    Coming through Trim now, in Meath. Early in 1425, Edmund, Earl of March, died in this town. He was son to Roger Mortimer and grandchild to Edmund Mortimer and Philippa, sole daughter of Lionel, Duke of Clarence. Fuller wrote of him that he 'may pass with the charitable reader for prince, since he paid so dear for same.' His holdings stretched across three lands. In England, Clare Castle and many manors in Suffolk. In the Marches of Wales, Wigmore in Herefordshire and Ludlow in Shropshire. And in Ireland, Trim was among his habitations. Fuller confessed he could not fix Edmund's birth date, no record reaching it, partly because of the vastness of his patrimony spread across so many places.

60. Decorated tiles from Bective chapel installed in Trim vestry

    Bective · townland · Meath · 1836

    In 1836, tiles that had formed the flooring of the chapel of Bective, ornamented with an arabesque pattern and the Fitzgerald arms and motto 'Crom Abo Si Dieu Piet', were put up in the vestry room of St. Patrick's church, Trim.

    Read the passage

    In 1836, some tiles which had formed the flooring of the chapel of Bective, and which are ornamented with an arabesque pattern, and the Fitzgerald arms and motto — ‘ ‘ Crom Abo Si Dieu Piet,” — were put up in the vestry room of this church.

    The impressed tiles now inserted in the same place, were found at Newtown, in the priory of SS. Peter and Paul. They are probably of the 13th century.

    Internet Archive somenoticesofcas00butl, Chapter 122

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere close to Bective, there were once decorated tiles on the chapel floor, marked with an arabesque pattern and the Fitzgerald arms and the motto 'Crom Abo Si Dieu Piet.' In 1836 those tiles were taken up and installed in the vestry room of St. Patrick's church in Trim. Other impressed tiles now set in the same place were found at Newtown, in the priory of Saints Peter and Paul, and are probably from the 13th century.