Name: Statistical Survey of the County of Meath
Author: Robert Thompson

Controversy over Hugh de Lacy's burial between abbeys

Bective · townland · Meath · 1188

After his death, Hugh de Lacy's body was buried with great solemnity in the abbey of Bective, but his head was carried to Dublin and buried in the abbey of Thomas-court, sparking a controversy between the abbeys over the rest of his body, decided in favour of Thomas-court by the bishop of Meath.

Read the passage

His body was buried with great iblemnity ia the abbey of Beftivej but his head was carried to Dublin^ aud buried in the abbey of Thomas-court This gave rife to a moft ridiculous controverfy between the abbieSf for the reft of his body, wluch was at length dedded in favour of Thomas-court, by Simon Rochfort, the then biihop of Meath, and Pope's legate in Ireland.
De Lacy left two fons, riz. Walter, Lord of Meath^ and Hugh, Earl of Ulftcr.

Internet Archive statisticalsurv00thomgoog, Chapter 3

As the companion tells it

Close to Bective, somewhere around here, Hugh de Lacy was buried with great solemnity in the abbey in 1188. But his head was carried to Dublin and buried in the abbey of Thomas-court, which sparked a controversy between the two abbeys over the rest of his body. Simon Rochfort, bishop of Meath and the Pope's legate in Ireland, decided the matter in favour of Thomas-court. De Lacy left two sons, Walter, Lord of Meath, and Hugh, Earl of Ulster.

St. Kieran's cell and holy well at Castlekeeran

Castlekeeran · townland · Meath · 540

St. Kieran built a cell near Kells at the place now called Castlekeeran around 540, near a remarkable spring said to have been blessed by him. Catholics still resorted to the well on the first Sunday in August, washing in the stream to cure diseases.

Read the passage

This St, Kieran, about the year 540, built for himfelf a cell near Kells, at the place now called Caftle- Keran, near which there is a remarkably fine fpriflg, iflumg from a rock, ^hich th^ tradidoiV of the coiintry attributes to a miraculous order of St. Kieran, who blefled it. To this well the more ignorant order of CathoHcs refort, on the firfl Sunday in Auguft, and wafli m the flream iflumg from the fountara, attributmg many remarkable cures, in a variety of difeafes, to its fan^ified influence.
There

Internet Archive statisticalsurv00thomgoog, Chapter 3

St. Mary's Abbey at Bective built by Murchard O'Melaghlin

Bective · townland · Meath · 1146–1188

The abbey of St. Mary at Bective was built by Murchard O'Melaghlin, king of Meath, in 1146 for Cistercian friars. Hugh de Lacy, Lord of Meath, who was killed in 1188, was buried there.

Read the passage

During the time the Danes held the reins of government in Ireland, which lafled for the fpace of 350 years, we find no record of any religious foundation in Meath, except that of the abbey of St. Mary at Beotive, which was built by Murchard O'Melaghlin, king of Meath, in the year 1146. The friars were of the order of Ciftertians. In this abbey was buried the body of Hugh de Lacy, Lord of Meath, who was killed in the year 1 188.
The Danes, having been in pofTeffion of Ireland for about 350 years, were at laft overcome, in the year 1 171, by the Englifli, who came over under Richard Strongbow, Earl of Pembroke, being invited by Dermot, fon of Murchard, to avenge him of his enemies, who had made inroads upon his territories. Henry 11. King of England, granted the Earl liberty to bring what number of followers he could, in order to eftablifli himfelf in Ireland. He, foon after his arrival, married Dermot's daughter, on whom were fettled all her father's pofleffions for ever.

Internet Archive statisticalsurv00thomgoog, Chapter 3

As the companion tells it

Somewhere around here is St. Mary's Abbey at Bective. During the 350 years the Danes held power in Ireland, no other religious foundation in Meath appears on record. Murchard O'Melaghlin, king of Meath, built this abbey in 1146. The friars were Cistercians. In this abbey was buried the body of Hugh de Lacy, Lord of Meath, who was killed in 1188. The Danes, after about 350 years in possession of Ireland, were at last overcome by the English, who came over under Richard Strongbow, Earl of Pembroke. Dermot, son of Murchard, had invited them to avenge him of his enemies, who had made inroads upon his territories. Henry the Second, King of England, granted the Earl liberty to bring what number of followers he could, to establish himself in Ireland. Soon after his arrival, Strongbow married Dermot's daughter, on whom were settled all her father's possessions for ever.

Burning of the statue of the Virgin Mary at Trim

Trim · town · Meath

The statue of the blessed Virgin Mary, kept at Trim in the abbey of the Canons Regular, was burned by order of Henry VIII, along with the image of Christ on the cross kept at Ballybogan, as pilgrims' gifts and relics were seized.

Read the passage

fices to his avarice ; two years after whtcfcy the Utatm of the bkflcd Virgin Mary, kept at Trim in the abbcf of the Caaoas R^ular^ was burned, and the tmagje of our Sariour on the crofs, kept at Ball^bogan, linden* went the like fate. The gifts of the pilgrimst which were numerous and vahiable, and 2^ the pi^dous re* liques were taken away by order of the king, whOy. however, to foften the afperities of religious zeal, and' avert the anathemas, which he muft otherwife.expcft for defpoiliug the fanAuaries <>i their wealth and orna** ments, granted penfions to the abbots and priors, dur««. ing life, out of the revenues referved to the crown*
Be^^ive Abbey next fuffered the like fate, and Heury, the year following, by an aA of parliament confirmed to himlelf all the abbies in Ireland. By an a^ of this parliament, the thle of King of Ireland was annexed to the crown of England; the Kings of England having been, before that time, ilyled only Lords of Ireland; and Meath, having been considered too large for the jurifdi^on of <me Sheriff, was dividel itfto Eaft and Weftmeath.

Internet Archive statisticalsurv00thomgoog, Chapter 4

As the companion tells it

Coming through Trim, in County Meath. This town held a statue of the blessed Virgin Mary in the abbey of the Canons Regular, and pilgrims brought numerous and valuable gifts to it. By order of Henry VIII, the statue was burned. The image of Christ on the cross, kept at Ballybogan, met the same fate. The pilgrims' gifts and pious relics were taken away by order of the king. To soften the anger of religious zeal and avert the anathemas he would otherwise face for despoiling the sanctuaries, Henry granted pensions to the abbots and priors for life, paid from revenues reserved to the crown. The following year, an act of parliament confirmed all the abbeys in Ireland to Henry himself, and the title of King of Ireland was annexed to the crown of England. Until then, English kings had been styled only Lords of Ireland. Meath, considered too large for one sheriff, was divided into East and Westmeath.

Danish fort on Tara Hill used by Turgesius

Tara · parish · Meath · 838–1791

A remarkable fine Danish fort or rath on the south-east side of Tara Hill, near Mr. Lynch's house, is said to have served as headquarters for the Danish king Turgesius while subduing Meath in 838. It contains about seven acres and was beautifully planted by Sir John Dillon and Mr. Lynch, earning a Dublin Society premium in 1791.

Read the passage

In the year 838, Turgefius, king of the Danes, failed up the Boyne, and fubdued Meath, ufing the profeffors of Chriftianity with the greateft cruelty. To him, in this expedition, is afcribed the formation of thofe Danifti forts, or raths, to be met with in various parts of this county, particularly that remarkable fine one on the fouth-eaft fide of Tarah-hill, near Mr. Lynch's houfe. Here he is faid to have taken up hid head-quarters, ^irhilft fubduing Meath. It contains about feven acres, and is now beautifully planted by Sir John Dillon, Bart, and Mr. Lynch,' for which they obtained a premium from the Dublin Society, in the year 1 79 1. In 845, Turgefius plundered Clonmacnoife, and many other places, and is faid to have fallen in love with the daughter of Melaghlin, king of Meath, who, feeming to accede to his propofals, promifed to fend his daughter to a certain place, attended by fifteen beautiful maids. Turgefius came to the place appointed, and found, inftead of his intended bride, fifteen young men, dreffed like women, with arms concealed, which they made ufe of for the tyrant^S de«f ftruftion.
The fame of this action foon fpread abroad, and the Danes were either cut off by ftratagem, or compelled by open force to return to their own country. In the year 849, however, they again returned to Ireland

Internet Archive statisticalsurv00thomgoog, Chapter 3

Danish defeat at Tara in 980

Tara · parish · Meath · 980

The Danes, after holding ground with varied success since 849, met a complete overthrow at Tara in 980, with the Irish king's forces slaying one thousand private soldiers along with most of the principal Danish officers.

Read the passage

with recruited ftrength^ and gained fome advantages pver the Irifli. They, with varied fuccefs, held their ground until the year 980, at which time they met with a complete overthrow at Tarah ; the Irifli, under^ the command of their king, flaying one thoufand private foldiers, together with moft of the principal Danifli officers.
During the time the Danes held the reins of government in Ireland, which lafled for the fpace of 350 years, we find no record of any religious foundation in Meath, except that of the abbey of St. Mary at Beotive, which was built by Murchard O'Melaghlin, king of Meath, in the year 1146. The friars were of the order of Ciftertians. In this abbey was buried the body of Hugh de Lacy, Lord of Meath, who was killed in the year 1 188.

Internet Archive statisticalsurv00thomgoog, Chapter 3

Parliament held in Trim's Black Friary

Trim · town · Meath

An Irish parliament was called to Dublin and immediately adjourned to Trim, where it sat for ten days. Both parliaments were held in the black friary, where local tradition holds the first Irish parliament to have been held.

Read the passage

manner^ called io Dublhi^ and immediately adjourned to Trim, where it fat for ten days. Both thefe werip held in the black friary, where the tradition oi the inhabitants makes the firft Iri(h parliament to have beea held. In 1459, a mint was tftablifhed in the caftle of Trim ; and there not only brafs money, but filver alfo ivas, by the king's order, coined. And, in 1467, mention is made of another parliament having been called^ Richard Duke of York, father to Edward IV. whilft in Ireland as Lord Lieutenant, redded (bme time in Trim, when he is fuppofed to have built the fieepk of the prefent pariih church, which was then^ as fome think, the friary of the Minorites. The Rev. Doftor Elliot, who has given me this information, grounds his opinion upon the coat of arms, cut in ftone, and built into the fteeple, which, upon fearching the Herald's office, he finds to be thofe of York and Mortimer. He quartered the Mortimer arms in right of liis mother Anne, who was filler to the Earl of March and Mortimer. The body and chancel of the church are certainly of much greater antiquity. In 1479, a military fodety, called the fraternity of St. George, was infti^ tuted for the defence of the counties of Dublin, Elildare, Meath, and Louth, and confifted of thirteen principal men, reiident in thefe counties, who all met in Dublin on St. George's day in each year, and chofe from amongft themfelves a captain or leader, who (hould command the reft : each of thefe thisteen mea^
had

Internet Archive statisticalsurv00thomgoog, Chapter 4

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Trim in Meath, this is a town where an Irish parliament sat for ten days. It had been called to Dublin and immediately adjourned to Trim, and both parliaments were held in the black friary. The tradition of the inhabitants makes the first Irish parliament to have been held there as well. In 1459 a mint was established in the castle of Trim, and by the king's order not only brass but silver money was coined. In 1467 another parliament was called. Richard Duke of York, father to Edward IV, resided some time in Trim as Lord Lieutenant of Ireland and is supposed to have built the steeple of the present parish church, which may have been the friary of the Minorites. The Reverend Doctor Elliot identified a coat of arms cut in stone and built into the steeple as those of York and Mortimer, quartered through his mother Anne, sister to the Earl of March and Mortimer. The body and chancel of the church are of greater antiquity. In 1479, a military society called the fraternity of St. George was instituted for the defence of Dublin, Kildare, Meath, and Louth, thirteen principal men who met in Dublin on St. George's day and chose a captain from among themselves.

St. Luman built St. Mary's Abbey at Trim

Trim · town · Meath · 482–1180

St. Luman, nephew of St. Patrick, was made Bishop of Trim and built St. Mary's Abbey there around 482. It was later rebuilt by the Lacies around 1180, and the surviving ruin known as the Yellow Steeple belonged to this abbey.

Read the passage

St. Lum^n, nephew to St. Patrick, accompanied hia upon this occafion, and was by him created .Bi(hop oi Trim. He, abput the year 482 built St. Mary's abhey there, and dedicated it to St. Auguftin; the monks were Canons Regular. This abbey was afterwards elegantly rebuilt by the Lacies, about the year 1180. That beautiful ruin, now called the yellow fteeple, be« longed to it. This was the firft fee in Meath.
About this time, St. Mary's abbey at DuleeH was built by a perfon of the name of Kelly. St. Cianan^ who was the firft biihop of it, died in the year 489, and was buried in the abbey.

Internet Archive statisticalsurv00thomgoog, Chapter 2

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Trim, you are in what was the first see in Meath. St. Luman, nephew of St. Patrick, was made Bishop of Trim and around 482 built St. Mary's Abbey there, dedicated to St. Augustine with Canons Regular as its monks. The Lacies elegantly rebuilt the abbey around 1180. That beautiful ruin now called the Yellow Steeple belonged to it.

St. Columb founds St. Mary's Abbey at Kells

Kells · town · Meath · 550–806

St. Columb founded and built St. Mary's Abbey at Kells around 550, famous as the birthplace of St. Cuthbert. It was rebuilt about 806 by Celiac, abbot of Iona, though little trace remains beyond the foundation of an old tower.

Read the passage

There is in the church-yard, belong^ to this cell, a fine old ftone croft, with feveral hieroglyphical figures on it, but not any legible charafters. St- Columb flouriftied immediately after St. Kieran, and lived at Kells, wherQ about the year 550 he founded and built St. Mary's abbey, littk or no traces of which are at pre* fent vifible, if we except the foundation of an old tower. This abbey is famous for the birth of St. Cuthbert, and was rebuilt about the year 806 by Celiac, abbot of Jona^ or Hy.
Columb-kil's houfe is ftiU (hndmgi it is fiooe-roof* ed, and hitherto has withflood the iron han4 of time ; it is faid to be the oldeft ilone-built houfe io Ireland. Near the fite of the abbey, i^ one of tbofeokl roniid towers, in high prefervation, that wc fo frequently meet with in Ireland; which, with one at Donoughmore near Navan, is the only one of the kind in Meatb%

Internet Archive statisticalsurv00thomgoog, Chapter 3

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Kells, this is where St. Columb lived and founded St. Mary's Abbey around 550, an abbey famous as the birthplace of St. Cuthbert. Little trace of it remains today except the foundation of an old tower. It was rebuilt about 806 by Celiac, abbot of Iona. Columb-kil's house still stands here, stone-roofed, and is said to be the oldest stone-built house in Ireland. Near the site of the abbey there is one of those old round towers, in high preservation, one of only two in Meath along with one at Donoughmore near Navan. In the churchyard there is a fine old stone croft with several carved figures, though no legible characters.

Boyne navigation transforms trade and population of Navan

Navan · town · Meath

Since the Boyne canal navigation extended to Navan, the trade and population of the town increased beyond calculation, with grounds along the canal cheaply supplied with manure. The facility of conveying corn to Drogheda spurred industry and enterprise among Navan's inhabitants.

Read the passage

The Boyne nav]gatioi}> between Drogh^a aiid Na« Tan, r^uQS along the courfe of this river : the trade OQ this canal h^ iocreaied confiderably of late yeara i «kU though a variety of impediments, both local and gene* ral> have checked its proceeding with as much rapidity as, from the utility and importance of fuch a work, the public had reafon to hppe, yet the eamefl: folidtude, wifh which the principal noblemen and gentlemen of Meath ftem to forward it to Trim, gives roOTa for the inoft flattering expeAadon. Since this line of canal has extended to Navan^ the trade and population of that town have increafed beyond all calculation.' Grounds ^ lh0 verge of the canal are fuppCed with manure with as little espence, at the diflaoce of three mikst as what arifes from conveying it by land carriage to the fields immediately adjoining the town i and traAa of neglefled fwampa, and unprofitable pafture ground^ ar^ now fo confiderably improved, as to produce crops capable of repaying induftry. The facility, with which corn is. conveyed to Drogheda, readers the demand for grain: ha:e confiderabk; hence the ipur to induftry. A ^irit of enterprize betrays itfelf in this town^ with which its inhabitants were unacquainted^ previous ta Hm peripi^ at which a oomauinication by water waa
opened

Internet Archive statisticalsurv00thomgoog, Chapter 16

As the companion tells it

Coming up along Navan in Meath. The Boyne navigation runs between Drogheda and Navan along the course of the river, and trade on this canal has increased considerably of late years. A variety of impediments, both local and general, checked its progress, though the principal noblemen and gentlemen of Meath seem intent on forwarding it to Trim. Since this line of canal extended to Navan, the trade and population of that town have increased beyond all calculation. Grounds on the verge of the canal are supplied with manure at as little expense, at the distance of three miles, as what arises from conveying it by land carriage to the fields immediately adjoining the town. Tracts of neglected swamps and unprofitable pasture ground are now so considerably improved as to produce crops capable of repaying industry. The facility with which corn is conveyed to Drogheda renders the demand for grain considerable, and hence the spur to industry. A spirit of enterprise shows itself in this town with which its inhabitants were unacquainted previous to the period at which a communication by water was opened.

Mint established in Trim Castle

Trim Castle · monument · Meath · 1459

In 1459, a mint was established in the castle of Trim, where both brass money and silver were coined by the king's order.

Read the passage

manner^ called io Dublhi^ and immediately adjourned to Trim, where it fat for ten days. Both thefe werip held in the black friary, where the tradition oi the inhabitants makes the firft Iri(h parliament to have beea held. In 1459, a mint was tftablifhed in the caftle of Trim ; and there not only brafs money, but filver alfo ivas, by the king's order, coined. And, in 1467, mention is made of another parliament having been called^ Richard Duke of York, father to Edward IV. whilft in Ireland as Lord Lieutenant, redded (bme time in Trim, when he is fuppofed to have built the fieepk of the prefent pariih church, which was then^ as fome think, the friary of the Minorites. The Rev. Doftor Elliot, who has given me this information, grounds his opinion upon the coat of arms, cut in ftone, and built into the fteeple, which, upon fearching the Herald's office, he finds to be thofe of York and Mortimer. He quartered the Mortimer arms in right of liis mother Anne, who was filler to the Earl of March and Mortimer. The body and chancel of the church are certainly of much greater antiquity. In 1479, a military fodety, called the fraternity of St. George, was infti^ tuted for the defence of the counties of Dublin, Elildare, Meath, and Louth, and confifted of thirteen principal men, reiident in thefe counties, who all met in Dublin on St. George's day in each year, and chofe from amongft themfelves a captain or leader, who (hould command the reft : each of thefe thisteen mea^
had

Internet Archive statisticalsurv00thomgoog, Chapter 4

As the companion tells it

Right here at Trim Castle in Meath, a mint was established in 1459. By the king's order, both brass money and silver were coined inside the castle. But there is more to Trim's story. A parliament had been called in Dublin and immediately adjourned to Trim, where it sat for ten days. Both sessions were held in the black friary, where the tradition of the inhabitants makes the first Irish parliament to have been held. In 1467, mention is made of another parliament having been called. Richard, Duke of York, father to Edward IV, whilst in Ireland as Lord Lieutenant, resided some time in Trim, when he is supposed to have built the steeple of the present parish church, which was then, as some think, the friary of the Minorites. The Rev. Doctor Elliot grounds his opinion upon the coat of arms cut in stone and built into the steeple, which upon searching the Herald's Office he finds to be those of York and Mortimer. He quartered the Mortimer arms in right of his mother Anne, who was sister to the Earl of March and Mortimer. The body and chancel of the church are certainly of much greater antiquity. In 1479, a military society called the fraternity of St. George was instituted for the defence of the counties of Dublin, Kildare, Meath, and Louth, consisting of thirteen principal men resident in these counties, who all met in Dublin on St. George's day in each year and chose from amongst themselves a captain or leader who should command the rest.

Richard Duke of York builds Trim church steeple

Trim · town · Meath

Richard Duke of York, father to Edward IV, resided some time in Trim as Lord Lieutenant and is supposed to have built the steeple of the present parish church, then thought to be the friary of the Minorites. The identification rests on a coat of arms of York and Mortimer cut in stone in the steeple.

Read the passage

manner^ called io Dublhi^ and immediately adjourned to Trim, where it fat for ten days. Both thefe werip held in the black friary, where the tradition oi the inhabitants makes the firft Iri(h parliament to have beea held. In 1459, a mint was tftablifhed in the caftle of Trim ; and there not only brafs money, but filver alfo ivas, by the king's order, coined. And, in 1467, mention is made of another parliament having been called^ Richard Duke of York, father to Edward IV. whilft in Ireland as Lord Lieutenant, redded (bme time in Trim, when he is fuppofed to have built the fieepk of the prefent pariih church, which was then^ as fome think, the friary of the Minorites. The Rev. Doftor Elliot, who has given me this information, grounds his opinion upon the coat of arms, cut in ftone, and built into the fteeple, which, upon fearching the Herald's office, he finds to be thofe of York and Mortimer. He quartered the Mortimer arms in right of liis mother Anne, who was filler to the Earl of March and Mortimer. The body and chancel of the church are certainly of much greater antiquity. In 1479, a military fodety, called the fraternity of St. George, was infti^ tuted for the defence of the counties of Dublin, Elildare, Meath, and Louth, and confifted of thirteen principal men, reiident in thefe counties, who all met in Dublin on St. George's day in each year, and chofe from amongft themfelves a captain or leader, who (hould command the reft : each of thefe thisteen mea^
had

Internet Archive statisticalsurv00thomgoog, Chapter 4

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Trim, this town carries the mark of Richard Duke of York, father to Edward IV. He lived here for a time as Lord Lieutenant, and is thought to have built the steeple of the present parish church, which some believe was then the friary of the Minorites. The evidence is a coat of arms cut in stone and built into the steeple, identified at the Herald's Office as those of York and Mortimer. He quartered the Mortimer arms through his mother Anne, sister to the Earl of March and Mortimer. The body and chancel of the church are of much greater antiquity than the steeple. Trim Castle saw other history too. In 1459, a mint was established there, coining both brass and silver by the king's order. A parliament sat in the black friary for ten days, and tradition among the inhabitants makes that the first Irish parliament. Another parliament was called in 1467. In 1479, a military society called the fraternity of St. George was instituted for the defence of Dublin, Kildare, Meath, and Louth, made up of 13 principal men who met in Dublin each year on St. George's day and chose a captain from among them.

Black Friary of Dominicans founded in Trim

Trim · town · Meath · 1263–1308

A convent of Dominicans was founded in Trim in 1263, in which Jeffry de Geneville, Lord of Meath, took the habit of the order of Predicants in 1308. It was known as the black friary from the monks' black hoods and was situated near Athboy-gate.

Read the passage

In 1263, a convent of Dominicans was founded in Trim ; in it Jeffiry de Geneville, Lord of Meath, took the habit of the order of Predicants, in the year 1308; this is what is now called the black friary, from the monks wearing black hoods, and was fituated near Athboy-gate. John de Dumbleton, archdeacon of Meath, wrote, about this time, on logic, and natural hiftory ; thefe works are ftill extant.
In 1318, "William de Londres, Lord of Athboy, founded there a conveht of Carmelites; fcarce any traces of it remain at prefent. About this time alfo, Francis Feipo, Lord of Skreeo, founded there (Skreen) a friary, which he dedicated to St. Auguftin.

Internet Archive statisticalsurv00thomgoog, Chapter 3

As the companion tells it

Coming up is Trim, where a convent of Dominicans was founded in 1263. It stood near Athboy-gate and came to be called the black friary, from the black hoods the monks wore. In 1308 Jeffry de Geneville, Lord of Meath, took the habit of the order of Predicants there. John de Dumbleton, archdeacon of Meath, wrote on logic and natural history about this time, works the source says are still extant.

Castle of Trim built by William Peppard, 1220

Trim · town · Meath · 1220

A Lambeth manuscript record states that the castle of Trim in Meath was built by William Peppard, Lord of Tabor, in the year 1220, providing a founding date and builder for the famous castle.

Read the passage

. THE cafHe-of Trym, in Methe, built by William Peppard^ Lord x>f Tabor, in awo I2Z0.. CaftlejCarberry, near Trynj, was built by Riqhard Burghe Earl of Ulfter, in K. Heury 5th tyme.
No. 2. — Ex Codice M&, Lambeth. G. 60^. folio 1 1 8.

Internet Archive statisticalsurv00thomgoog, Chapter 95

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Trim in Meath, you are near a castle whose founding is recorded in a Lambeth manuscript. It states that the castle of Trim was built by William Peppard, Lord of Tabor, in the year 1220.

English-run Cheese Manufactory Established at Slane

Slane · townland · Meath · 1799–1802

Lord Conyngham established a cheese manufactory at Slane, staffed by men and women brought from England, producing cheeses in the style of Cheshire, Gloucester, and Stilton. The author notes it appears to be succeeding, unlike the rest of the county where cheese was rarely made.

Read the passage

Butter produced from very rich , pafture is not coniiderdi to keep as well, or to be as firm as that produced on poorer land ; it is for this reafbn that the Cavan and Wicklow butter is fo much more prized, than what is made in this county. The butter, not ufed in this diflriA, is all fold in Dublin or Drogheda, and, until thefe laft two years, rated at from 7^. to p^/. per pound for fait, and from lod. to is. for frefli butter. Cheefe is very feldom made in it, and then only for the faihily ufe. A manufaftory of cheefe has been eftabliftied at Slane, by order of Lord Conyngham, carried on by men and women from England^ and, as far as I can judge, bids fair for fuccefs. In it, cheefes of the fame nature as thoft of Chefliire, Glou^ ccfter, Stilton, &c. are at prefent manufaftured.
Calves are very fubjeft to a diforder called, in this country, the black leg, and in other places^the quarterail. It is fo infe£^ious that, if the difeafed beaft is fuffered to remain amongft the {lock for many hours, after it is feized, it generally communicates the diftempcr to others. If they even fmell the ^pot, where the

Internet Archive statisticalsurv00thomgoog, Chapter 44

As the companion tells it

Close to Slane, Lord Conyngham established a cheese manufactory, staffed by men and women brought from England. The author of the Statistical Survey of the County of Meath judged that, as far as he could tell, it "bids fair for success." Cheeses of the same nature as those of Cheshire, Gloucester, and Stilton were being manufactured there. This stood apart from the rest of the county. Cheese was very seldom made in Meath, and then only for family use. Butter was the chief dairy product, and what was not used in the district was sold in Dublin or Drogheda. The author notes that Cavan and Wicklow butter was more prized than Meath butter, because butter from very rich pasture was not considered to keep as well or be as firm as butter from poorer land. Until these last two years, salt butter rated at 7 pence to 9 pence per pound, and fresh butter at 10 pence to a shilling. Against that background, the manufactory, with its English workers and its Cheshire, Gloucester and Stilton style cheeses, was something new.

Navan burned and pillaged by Con O'Neil

Navan · town · Meath

The town of Navan was burned and pillaged by Con O'Neil in revenge for depredations committed on his territories by Grey the Lord Deputy; afterward it was walled at the expense of a cess laid on Meath and Westmeath.

Read the passage

The town of Navan was about this time burned, and pillaged, by Con O'Neil, in revenge for fome depredations committed on his territories by Grey the Lord Deputy; after which it was walled, and the expence defrayed by a cefe laid on the counties of Meath and Weft Meath, for that purpofe.*
from * Appendix, No. a.

Internet Archive statisticalsurv00thomgoog, Chapter 4

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Navan, this is a town that once burned. Con O'Neil set fire to it and pillaged it, in revenge for raids Grey the Lord Deputy had carried out on his territories. Afterward walls were built around the town, paid for by a cess laid on Meath and Westmeath.

River Nanny's romantic course through Somerville demesne

Somerville · site · Meath

The river Nanny rises near Navan and flows through the romantic glen of the Diamond-rock into the elegant demesne of Somerville, the residence of Sir Marcus Somerville, where it opens into a grand expanse frequented by wild water-fowl.

Read the passage

The river Nanny takes its rife near Navan, and running in an eaftarly direftion, ihapes its courfe through the romantic glen of the Diamond-rock, and» meandering at the foot of the extenfive amphitheatre formed by the bending of thofe lofty hills, it enters the elegant and highly beautified demefne of SomcrvHle, the charming and hofpitable refidence of Sir Marcus Somerville^ Bart., where it opens wide into a grand and diverfified expanie^ on whoie furface a variety of wild water-fowl are conftantly feea enjoying M the prhril^d fecurity of domeftic animals ; thence proceeding to the fea, it affiurds fites |o three flour and feveral grift-mills in its courfe,
It

Internet Archive statisticalsurv00thomgoog, Chapter 17

Tenants of ill repair at Athboy under Samuel Waller

Athboy · town · Meath

The tenants of Samuel Waller, Esq. at Athboy are described as having a ragged, poor appearance, worse than any other tenants observed by the author in the county.

Read the passage

and two ftory W^. Buf the tenfts^s qF Saum^ VfvsL* ter, £%• at Afighery have pore the appeara^e of ragl .icomfpti, tb^ tlKrffe <m aay ^ft#ter Aait I Hv^ i£ca ia tb^ co^pmy, bjf^e ?id4iti(Gja frf a g9pd Jdtchen-gardcQ iQeacbfcioftfr. JoboGe^ard, of <fii)fta!wii^Bftl,.ht8
ever^ want a fecond. floor. I do i)0K:'uWkpiis^lj re- ..C«^ft j«iy,otbcfs, vfho l^y^ ta^^n par^cfU^r jwfls ta clodge ih?ir iW>r wojf^ QopaiEwr^y: tHw.Ji^i««ttfc^, . al^q^gh. many; endeayour tp makc^ ,:tbfm «oro Hd€»Q|y ^"m. their perfoasi. > . , ; \ . .

Internet Archive statisticalsurv00thomgoog, Chapter 22

Dissolution of abbeys near Trim, Duleek and Ballybogan

Newtown · townland · Meath · 1536

The abbeys of St. Peter and Paul at Newtown near Trim, along with Duleek and Ballybogan, were the first religious houses seized by Henry VIII in his dissolution of the monasteries in Meath.

Read the passage

The abbies of St. P^er and Paul, at Newtown near Trim s Duleek, and Ballybogan, were the firft facri-
fices

Internet Archive statisticalsurv00thomgoog, Chapter 4

Marquis of Lansdowne's absentee estate of 66,000 acres

Meath · county · Meath

The Marquis of Lansdowne holds 66,000 acres of estate in the county of Meath which he has never seen, exemplifying the widespread absentee landlordism affecting the county.

Read the passage

* The Marquis of Lab^own has 66,000 acres of eitate in the eouoty, which he ner^r has ieen.
Digitized by VjOOQ IC

Internet Archive statisticalsurv00thomgoog, Chapter 19

As the companion tells it

The road is carrying you through Meath, a county shaped by absentee landlordism. The Marquis of Lansdowne held 66,000 acres of estate here, land he never once set eyes on. His case was an example of a practice widespread across the county.

Destruction of image of Christ at Ballybogan

Ballybogan · townland · Donegal

The image of Christ on the cross kept at Ballybogan underwent the same fate as the Trim statue, destroyed under Henry VIII's order as part of the dissolution.

Read the passage

fices to his avarice ; two years after whtcfcy the Utatm of the bkflcd Virgin Mary, kept at Trim in the abbcf of the Caaoas R^ular^ was burned, and the tmagje of our Sariour on the crofs, kept at Ball^bogan, linden* went the like fate. The gifts of the pilgrimst which were numerous and vahiable, and 2^ the pi^dous re* liques were taken away by order of the king, whOy. however, to foften the afperities of religious zeal, and' avert the anathemas, which he muft otherwife.expcft for defpoiliug the fanAuaries <>i their wealth and orna** ments, granted penfions to the abbots and priors, dur««. ing life, out of the revenues referved to the crown*
Be^^ive Abbey next fuffered the like fate, and Heury, the year following, by an aA of parliament confirmed to himlelf all the abbies in Ireland. By an a^ of this parliament, the thle of King of Ireland was annexed to the crown of England; the Kings of England having been, before that time, ilyled only Lords of Ireland; and Meath, having been considered too large for the jurifdi^on of <me Sheriff, was dividel itfto Eaft and Weftmeath.

Internet Archive statisticalsurv00thomgoog, Chapter 4

Differing weights: Kells vs Navan

Kells · town · Meath · 1800–1802

The survey notes the confusing diversity of weights across County Meath towns, citing that a hundredweight in Kells was 120 pounds while in Navan, only eight miles away, it was 112 pounds.

Read the passage

Thx. gKSt direriity of wtights aod meaforea, nfed ihroiE^aBt the cosoty, and the different qvao^tiea in tlK faaK dcnoimBaiioOy ta difereiit paitt of it, sre pf o^ doAifc of infioite trouble and perplexity. There i» fiaxdlya. town of any confideradon in the diftrlA, that doe» not, in ibme degree, dlfier from the other in fbme dBC denominadon or other of thdr weights. For h»^ ftaoce^ the hundred weight \xk Kella \s one humfred ind twenty poundl»} and in that of NaTan, a Aftance #f eight Biika, there are oi^y one hundred and twehrc pounds ) in the mtermedtate placet, peribns buymg mnft ftiputate by which weight they porchafe, the negleft of whieb ffipnlation is often produftivc of difpute.
Cont isf generally fold by the barrel; and meal, flour, &e, by the hundred weight airoirdnpois. Eggs, ^^ples, oyflers, n^s, quicks, jdants, &c. per hundred^ of fix &ore.

Internet Archive statisticalsurv00thomgoog, Chapter 92

As the companion tells it

As you come through Kells, this town had its own way of weighing things around 1800. A surveyor noted that the diversity of weights and measures across County Meath caused, in his words, "infinite trouble and perplexity." Hardly any town agreed with another. Here, a hundredweight was 120 pounds, but in Navan, only 8 miles away, it was 112 pounds. Buyers in the places in between had to stipulate by which weight they were purchasing, and forgetting that often led to disputes.

Michael Tisdall's tenant houses at Charlesfort

near Charlesfort · sub-townland · Meath

The late Michael Tisdall of Charlesfort gave each tenant a year's rent to build a farm-house to a plan he supplied. The houses were rough-cast and white-washed, kept in fine order during his life but grew neglected after his death.

Read the passage

The late Alichafi Tifdall, Elq. of' Charesfort, allowed each of his tenants 6ne year's relit for building a fafm*houfe, the plan of wbich he iupplied them with^ During his life, thole houles were kept in very nice order; but, fincehis death, the ocfcupierS have become- extremely flovenly. They were all fough-cail and white-wafhed, which gave tbeni a chearful appearance, and at a little diflance had a good cfftd} and they were cleaned and white-waihed in the infide
annually^

Internet Archive statisticalsurv00thomgoog, Chapter 21

As the companion tells it

Somewhere about Charlesfort are tenant houses built under the late Michael Tisdall. He gave each tenant a year's rent to build a farmhouse to a plan he supplied. The houses were rough-cast and white-washed, which gave them a cheerful appearance and a good effect at a distance. They were cleaned and white-washed inside annually, and kept in very nice order during his life. Since his death, the occupants have become extremely slovenly.

Patrick Murphy's Water-Powered Threshing Mill at Ardmulchan

Ardmulchan · townland · Meath

Mr. Patrick Murphy of Navan brought his water machinery to the highest perfection of any man in the county, building a water-powered threshing machine on his farm at Ardmulchan, described as the only threshing mill in the county worked by water.

Read the passage

Mr. Patrick Murphy, of Navan, hafs brought all his water machinery to the highcfl: perfcflion of any man In the (iounty. On his farm of Ardmukhan he has built a threftiing machine, worked by witer, capable of threfhing and cleaning effeftually mote corn 6f every kind, than any other machine that I have heard o£ ' A water-wheel is always to be preferred to a horfe-wheel for work of any kind, a^ the- motion is fo much more regular, arid regularity in motion is the foul of machinery. This is the only threfliiftg-mili in the county worked by water. Befide thefe, there arc about eight threfiiing-mills already ere^ed, , and many others are in contemplation. Couch-harrows are ufed by many, upon feyeral conftruftions, and a ipike-roUer by Mr. Morris. Land-rollers, both of ftone, woody and metal, are ufed ; the mofi common kind, however, are compofed of one folid block of wood. I laft year made a wooden roller, the excellence of wbkk is, that it can he ufed in light or in heavy grouiKls with equal efFeft. The cylinder is eight feet long, and moves upon its axis, and is divided in two parts for the eaie of turning at the headland ; the diameter of the cylinder is three feet four inches, and each half is compofed of three round pieces of timber, tike the £fhes pf cafwheels, fet perpendicularly parallel to each ot^er, and Iheeted round with phnk of one or two inches icant- Tmg, and hooped with four ftrong hoops* This double
cylinder

Internet Archive statisticalsurv00thomgoog, Chapter 26

As the companion tells it

Somewhere close to Ardmulchan, Patrick Murphy of Navan built a threshing machine worked by water on his farm here. He brought all his water machinery to the highest perfection of any man in the county. The machine is capable of threshing and cleaning effectually more corn of every kind than any other machine the writer had heard of. The writer says a water-wheel is always to be preferred to a horse-wheel for work of any kind, as the motion is so much more regular, and regularity in motion is the soul of machinery. This is the only threshing mill in the county worked by water. Besides this one, there are about eight threshing mills already erected, and many others in contemplation. Couch-harrows are used by many, upon several constructions, and a spike-roller by Mr. Morris. Land-rollers of stone, wood, and metal are all used, though the most common kind is composed of one solid block of wood. The writer himself made a wooden roller the year before, its excellence being that it can be used in light or heavy ground with equal effect. The cylinder is eight feet long and moves upon its axis. It is divided in two parts for ease of turning at the headland. The diameter is three feet four inches, and each half is composed of three round pieces of timber set perpendicularly, parallel to each other, sheeted round with plank of one or two inches, and hooped with four strong hoops.

Priory of Augustin canons founded at Newtown near Trim

Newtown · townland · Meath · 1206–1224

In 1206, Simon Rochfort, first Englishman appointed bishop of Meath, founded a priory of Augustin canons at Newtown near Trim, dedicated to St. Peter and St. Paul. He transferred the episcopal seat there from Clonard and was buried there in 1224; parts of the priory walls still stand.

Read the passage

traosferi^d die cpifeopal &at from Qooafd to i}M priory, died, and vaa buried there, in tbc year 1224* A great part of the walls of this priory are (till ftand^ ing. The eaft window was almoft entire within thefe few years, and was of exqinfite worlcaianfiiip ; indeed the whole arcHitedhire was of the pnrefi concq^tion* The prior had a n^e in parliament*
Near this, but on the oppofite fide of the Boyne, fiand the ruins of the priory of St; John .the Baptil^ of the order of Cro6^arers, of which the bifhops of Meath'wfie either the founders m benefaftors^ or^ perhaps, both.

Internet Archive statisticalsurv00thomgoog, Chapter 3

Round Tower at Donaghmore near Navan

Donaghmore · townland · Meath

A round tower stands at Donaghmore near Navan, noted as the only other example of the kind in Meath besides that at Kells.

Read the passage

Columb-kil's houfe is ftiU (hndmgi it is fiooe-roof* ed, and hitherto has withflood the iron han4 of time ; it is faid to be the oldeft ilone-built houfe io Ireland. Near the fite of the abbey, i^ one of tbofeokl roniid towers, in high prefervation, that wc fo frequently meet with in Ireland; which, with one at Donoughmore near Navan, is the only one of the kind in Meatb%
It is called by the country people, <« Cluga^ Kaa*- dus," which fignifies, « The belfry of Kells. Thi$ name has been handed down by tradition, which ieemd to denote, that they were firft intended for bells. Io Kells arc feveral ftoae crofles, but one Ut particular of beautiful worlunanfhip. This former^ lay proAraio in the ftreet, oppofite to the caftle, but was rwfed.by the defire,. and at the expence of the celebrated Swift, Dean of St. Patrick's. See the plate>

Internet Archive statisticalsurv00thomgoog, Chapter 3

Sterne and Chetwood Apprenticeship Fund Linked to Ardbraccan

Ardbraccan · townland · Meath

A charitable fund left by the late Doctor Sterne, Bishop of Clogher, and Doctor Chetwood, Rector of Ardbraccan, provided eighty pounds per annum for apprenticing children of Protestant parents in the county to Protestant masters and mistresses.

Read the passage

expreflioris, or more calculated to touch the feelings^ than that of the Iriih ; fo much fb, that it has become a provjcrbial expreffion^ «f Plead for your life in Irifti* Amongft the; eharitable inftitutions, I fhould not omit that fund left by the late DoAor Sterne, Biihop of Clogher, and Doctor Chetwood, Reflor of Ardbraccan^ arifing from 'the iatereft of money, and amounting to eighty pounds per annum, for the purpofe of apprenticing (children of Protcftant parents, inhabitants of this county, to Proteftant mailers and mi& trefles in any county. The children muft be able to read and write, and fay the church catechjfm. Thf fee is (hree pounds to eaclji. Nor the fingu|ar ^qviei): of the late Thomas C^arleton, Efq. who left 900/. pcf apnun? for. ever (two-thicds of which he direfted to b^ diftributed in Meatb, and the other third ip Longfprd) in marriage pprtions of fix guineas, to labouring wetff fons under thirty, marrying labouring^ men's daugbtcri under forty, who have refided one year or more, imiinediately previo^is to their ma|-riage, in the faine parifti, aijd fhall have been married with the confeat of their parepts. I have known a great many perfons^ who have obtained this portion, and yet, except in twQ or three inft.ances, I have not.fecn any good purpofc eifefled by it; it is the charadpriftic qf the lower plaj^ of Irifh, as w^ll as of thofe of other countries, to thinly but little of what they, acquire without difiiculty* «< Eafy come, cafy go," is their ufual maxim; and i5
does

Internet Archive statisticalsurv00thomgoog, Chapter 23

As the companion tells it

Somewhere close to Ardbraccan, there is a connection to a charitable fund left by the late Doctor Sterne, Bishop of Clogher, and Doctor Chetwood, Rector of Ardbraccan. The fund arose from the interest of money and amounted to eighty pounds per annum, for the purpose of apprenticing children of Protestant parents, inhabitants of this county, to Protestant masters and mistresses in any county. The children must be able to read and write, and say the church catechism. The fee is three pounds to each. The same passage records another bequest, by the late Thomas Carleton, who left nine hundred pounds per annum, two-thirds to be distributed in Meath and the other third in Longford, in marriage portions of six guineas, to labouring men's sons under thirty marrying labouring men's daughters under forty, who have resided one year or more, immediately previous to their marriage, in the same parish, and shall have been married with the consent of their parents. The author writes that they have known a great many persons who obtained this portion, and yet, except in two or three instances, they have not seen any good purpose effected by it. The author says of the lower class of Irish, as well as those of other countries, that they think but little of what they acquire without difficulty. "Easy come, easy go" is their usual maxim.

Subsidy levied to build the walls of Navan

Navan · town · Meath

A Lambeth manuscript record under Sir Anthony St. Leger, Lord Deputy, ordered that every ploughed land in Meath and Westmeath be charged three shillings and four pence for four years toward building the walls of the town of Navan.

Read the passage

Every ploughed iand within iJie rouaty of .Methe and Weft Methe^ i^ied to be charged with fubfidie^nd not free from impofitlon, (hall be, during the terjp 4>f fow years, chajrged with thefiwa of ^ree .(hiUioigs and four pence, towards the building the waU3 of the^wva -ofNavan.
No. S.-^Ex Codice MS. Lambeth.. XX. 63$. folio 69.

Internet Archive statisticalsurv00thomgoog, Chapter 95

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Navan, it's worth knowing its walls were built by a levy. A Lambeth manuscript records that under Lord Deputy Sir Anthony St. Leger, every ploughed land in Meath and Westmeath was charged three shillings and four pence for four years toward building the walls of Navan.

The Earl of Bective's great wall around Headfort demesne

Headfort · townland · Kerry

The wall around the demesne of Headfort, built by the late Earl of Bective, enclosed an area of twelve to fifteen hundred Irish acres, stood twelve feet high, and was grouted and neatly coped with small round stones.

Read the passage

I ihould not omit mentioning here the wall round the demefne of Headfort, built by the late Earl of BeAive^ enclofing an area^ as I am informed, of from twelve to fifteen hundred Iri(h acres; it is twelve feet high, and built in the beft manner, being grouted throughout, and neatly coped with fmall round ftofnes. The demefne of Summerhill too is enclofed with a very high wall, as is alfo the demefnfe* of Stackallen, the feat of Lord Boyne, and Beauparc the feat of . Guftavus Lambart, Efq. together with a few more.
Ditches are cheap in their original formation; they afford good flielter for cattle, are eafily repaired, draia ^ the ground, and are a continual fourcc of manure, affording either limeftone gravel or mud; and they fupply the farmer annuaHy with a certain proportion of fuel from the plaftiing, and timber for the purpofes of hufbandry. The hedgerows give an appearance of comfort to the farm, on which they grow, and enrich and beautify the face of the country. The compare* tive expeace of the two fences may be thus ratqd^.

Internet Archive statisticalsurv00thomgoog, Chapter 30

Charter School for Boys at Ardbraccan

Ardbraccan · townland · Meath · 1802

A charter school for fifty boys was established at Ardbraccan, operating under the immediate inspection of the Bishop of Meath. It was noted as being kept in the best possible manner given its limited funding from the Incorporated Society.

Read the passage

In this county are two chartcr-fchools ; one fot fifty boys, and the oth,er for fifty prls. The boys fchool is at Ardbraccaou under the immediate infpeaion of the Biihop of Meath 5 that of the prls is at Trim, and both are kept In the beft poffible manner, confidcring the film allowed by the Incorporate Society.
Befide thefe two fchools, there is a diocefan fchool at Trim, and a fchool handfomely endowed at Navanj* and in every parilh the bifliop (whofc care of, and attention to the morals of every the meaneft individual of the diocefe is indefatigable) has infifted, m his vifi-

Internet Archive statisticalsurv00thomgoog, Chapter 23

As the companion tells it

Somewhere around here, a charter school for fifty boys operated at Ardbraccan in 1802. It ran under the immediate inspection of the Bishop of Meath, and was described as being kept in the best possible manner, considering the limited funding allowed by the Incorporated Society.

De Lacy's grant and division of Meath into baronies

Meath · county · Meath

Meath was granted by King Henry II to De Lacy for the service of fifty men; De Lacy subdivided it into twelve baronies, naming those who received grants as Barons, a division that has held ever since.

Read the passage

' Under this divifion, the county remained uiitil fiib- ^ttcd by the EnglHh, at which time it was granted by King Henry the 2d, to De Lacy, for the fervicc of fifty men. He, to eafe bimielf of this fervice, fab* 4ii^ded it into twelve parts, called baronies, becaufe the perfons, to whom he made thefe grants were after* wards created Barons. This divifion has held good ever fince, and each barony now makes and repairs all the roads, fuppbrts its own police, and makes and repairs what are called gullets, where ftreams are coo* duAed under the high way.
This expcmcc is defrayed by an acreable charge laid on by the Grand jury, twice a year, at the general affizes held in the county. But fums of money ex«- pended in erecting, and repairing bridges, amoundng to five pounds and upwards, are levied off the county at large.

Internet Archive statisticalsurv00thomgoog, Chapter 7

As the companion tells it

As you travel through Meath, you are moving through a county whose basic divisions go back to the 12th century. King Henry the 2nd granted all of Meath to De Lacy for the service of 50 men. De Lacy subdivided it into 12 parts called baronies, because the men he granted them to were afterwards created Barons. That division has held good ever since. Each barony maintains its own roads, supports its own police, and repairs what are called gullets, where streams pass under the highway. The expense is covered by a charge per acre laid on by the Grand Jury twice a year at the general assizes. But sums spent erecting or repairing bridges, amounting to 5 pounds or more, are levied off the county at large.

Doctor Beaufort's Ploughman Wins Premiums at Collon

Collon · town · Louth · 1801–1802

At Collon, Doctor Beaufort trained a ploughman in the use of the Scotch plough, offering extra wages to encourage skill, resulting in several premiums won at ploughing matches, including one using a pair of bullocks driven with bits.

Read the passage

that perfeftioD, workmg my grouaels, to which I know it has arrived elfewherc. This plan has been purftied by Doftor Beaufort, at Ckdlon, with fuch fuccefs, that his pioughman has obtained ieyeral prenaiums at the different ploughing matches, and one this laft fummer, ' ynth a pair of bullocks, which he drove with bits in their mouths, and which they obeyed as regularly as horles would have done. J. M. Grainger,* of Caufeatown, and Doftor Beaufort, of Collon, are the only gentlemen, as far as I can learn, who have introduced Mr. Cooke's patent drill machine into this county, although feveral have gone fo far in the ufe of the new machines, as the cukivutor, and Muffler ; feveral gen^ tlemeri, however, have agreed as to its utility, who, if the difficulty of procuring them was not fo great, would adopt them.
Drill machines cannot be had in this country complete for lefs than twenty guineas, including the freight, notwithftanding which I think, in fome time Aey will come more generally into ufe.

Internet Archive statisticalsurv00thomgoog, Chapter 25

Trim consumed by fire from lightning

Trim · town · Meath · 1496

Two years after 1494, Trim was consumed by fire, communicated by lightning, shortly after which the Bishop of Meath John Payne died.

Read the passage

In 1485, 1490, and 1493, Parliaments were held in Trim caftle, fince which time there has not been any held there, that we caq find a record of. In 1494, the MHitary focicty or fraternity of St. George ceafcd to exifl, not having been found to anfwer the defigned end, or, as fome aflTert, on account of the ftate of the funds of Ireland, which were then too low to admit of fuch an expence, though eftimated only at five hundred pounds fterling yearly. Two years after which. Trim was cbnfumed by fire, communicated by lightmng; fhortly after which, died John Payne, Bifhop of Meath, a n^an eminent for his learning, piety, and political knowlege.
In the year 15^36, Henry the eighth caft a covetous eye upon the vaft pofTeffions of the church in Meath, and having begun in England to convert the property of monafteries to his own ufe, he was not long in determining tQ dp the like here alfo.

Internet Archive statisticalsurv00thomgoog, Chapter 4

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Trim, the town carries a memory of fire. Two years earlier, in 1494, the Military Society or Fraternity of St. George had ceased to exist here, its upkeep estimated at five hundred pounds sterling yearly and judged too costly for the state of Ireland's funds. Then in 1496, Trim was consumed by fire, communicated by lightning. Shortly after the blaze, John Payne, Bishop of Meath, died. He was remembered as a man eminent for his learning, piety, and political knowledge.

Straw-hat manufacture at Dunboyne rivals Dunstable

Dunboyne · town · Meath

In the town and neighbourhood of Dunboyne, straw-hat manufacture (both split and whole straw) was carried on to a great extent, thought to equal or surpass the famous work made at Dunstable, thanks to the efforts of Miss Hamilton of Hilltown.

Read the passage

There is, upon the Nanny-water, one very cxtenfivc bleach-green, Bekynging to George Amiftrong, iBfq.' witfi a beetling-mMI, and other mathiQefry, reqnifitc for earring on the bnfineis. In the town and neighbonrb6pdof Dunboyne,' the ftraw»hat manufadnre is carficdontovery great extent, and the work, both of ^li^and whole ftfaw, is thdught to equal, if not fnrjn&f that made at Dunftable. It is brought to this great pbrfeSioo, thrbngh the exerdons of Mfs HamiltOQ,of:Hiimwoodi and at Galtrim, in Deece barony, from^die^are and attention of Mrs. Dawfon and Mrs. Flnhyy:it-hag' been, brought to.ftill greater perfeftion. lii'tlus'laft place the- plat is fold, as* the fafhions, for tbeform-of booiKts, hats, Sec. change fo frequently, thatdt is confidered the bleft plan, not to put the plat into (hope.^ Coarfdr kinds of ftraw-work, fuch as bon-^ BistsV &c* are ma<feln maqy parts of the county, but not any to equal thoie mad^ at Dunboyne or Galtrim* The 'manufa€hire of flat and pan-tiles, garden-^pots, crocks^ pans, and all kinds of coarfe ^pottery, is carried on at Knock, in Morgallion barony, which is very conveniently fituated with refpeft to turf, the only fuel ufed, as before mentioned^
. Clofe to the bog of Garriftown, in Dnieek: barony, there are a grea^ number of nailers, who difpofe of their manufaAure in the retail /hops of Drogheda, &c.

Internet Archive statisticalsurv00thomgoog, Chapter 84

As the companion tells it

As you pass through the town of Dunboyne in Meath, you are passing through what was once a centre of straw-hat making. In the town and its neighbourhood, the manufacture of both split and whole straw hats was carried on to a great extent, and the work was thought to equal, if not surpass, that made at Dunstable. This craft was brought to great perfection through the exertions of Miss Hamilton of Hilltown. Coarser straw-work was made in many parts of the county, but none to equal what was produced at Dunboyne.

Charter School for Girls at Trim

Trim · town · Meath · 1802

A charter school for fifty girls was located at Trim, one of two charter schools in the county alongside the boys' school at Ardbraccan.

Read the passage

In this county are two chartcr-fchools ; one fot fifty boys, and the oth,er for fifty prls. The boys fchool is at Ardbraccaou under the immediate infpeaion of the Biihop of Meath 5 that of the prls is at Trim, and both are kept In the beft poffible manner, confidcring the film allowed by the Incorporate Society.
Befide thefe two fchools, there is a diocefan fchool at Trim, and a fchool handfomely endowed at Navanj* and in every parilh the bifliop (whofc care of, and attention to the morals of every the meaneft individual of the diocefe is indefatigable) has infifted, m his vifi-

Internet Archive statisticalsurv00thomgoog, Chapter 23

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Trim, there was a charter school here for 50 girls, one of two charter schools in the county in 1802. The other was a boys' school at Ardbraccan, under the Bishop of Meath. Both schools, the survey tells us, were kept

Lord of Killeen and Dunsany musters 24 horsemen

Killeen · townland · Meath · 1509–1603

A muster record for the Barony of Skreen lists the Lord of Killeen, the Lord of Dunsany, and the rest of the Plunkets as together providing 24 armed horsemen during the reigns of Elizabeth and Henry VIII.

Read the passage

The Lord of Killeen, the Lord of Dunfany, with the reft of the Plunkets, - - - - 24 ditto, Nicoles Nugent, in peribn, - 3 ditto,
Mr. Draycott, - - • i ditto.

Internet Archive statisticalsurv00thomgoog, Chapter 95

Sackcloth weaving industry centred on Navan

Navan · town · Meath · 1800–1802

Navan was the chief centre of Meath's sackcloth manufacture, with two to three hundred looms employed in weaving tow into cloth. Each loom produced about forty pieces of sixty yards annually, sold in Dublin.

Read the passage

This manufacture is chiefly carried on about Navan, in which town there are from two to three hundred looms employed in weaving iti each loom saaking about forty pieces, of iixty yards each» in the year. The pieces are generally ibid in Dublin, at from lod. ta 14^ per yard. Dowlas, and three-quarters wide cparfe linens, are alfo manufactured for exportation, principally m the baronies of Slane and Duleek, and i(dd in Drogheda, whence they are ihipped to the Weft Indies, to dothe the Negroes. Linen, of fomewhat a finer texture, is made in the lower barony of Kells, apd in Demifore, and fold in the market of Oldcaftle,
which

Internet Archive statisticalsurv00thomgoog

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Navan, you are in the chief centre of Meath's sackcloth manufacture around this time. Two to three hundred looms were employed here, weaving tow into coarse cloth. Each loom produced about forty pieces a year, each piece sixty yards long, and the cloth was sold in Dublin. The trade also reached further: dowlas and coarse linens were made in the baronies of Slane and Duleek, sold in Drogheda, and shipped to the West Indies to clothe enslaved people. Finer linen was made around Kells and sold in the market of Oldcastle.

Ardbraccan limestone quarry and the bishop's palace

Ardbraccan · townland · Meath

On the bishop's demesne at Ardbraccan is an excellent white-grained limestone quarry capable of being worked into any form for building; Dr. Henry Maxwell, late Bishop of Meath, built a beautiful palace there from this stone.

Read the passage

At Ardbraccan, on the dem^fne of the bifhop, is aa excellent limeftone quarry, of a fine white grain, ca«* pable of hang worked into any form for building. The beds lie horizontally, and are of every thicknefs^ from four inches to two feet: columns have beea raifed and worked in it, from fifteen to eighteen inche$ diameter, and nine or tei^ feet long. Of this ilone, the Hon. Dr. Henry Maxwell, late bifliop of Meath, built a beautiful palace at Ardbraccan j a monument of
tafle

Internet Archive statisticalsurv00thomgoog, Chapter 11

As the companion tells it

Somewhere around here in Ardbraccan, there's a limestone quarry on the bishop's demesne, a fine white grain stone capable of being worked into any form for building. The beds lie horizontally, from 4 inches to 2 feet thick, and columns have been cut from it, 15 to 18 inches across and 9 or 10 feet long. Dr. Henry Maxwell, late Bishop of Meath, built a beautiful palace at Ardbraccan from this stone, "a monument of taste."

Bective Abbey suppressed by Henry VIII

Bective · townland · Meath

Bective Abbey next suffered the same fate as the other dissolved monasteries, with Henry VIII confirming to himself all the abbeys in Ireland the following year by act of parliament.

Read the passage

Be^^ive Abbey next fuffered the like fate, and Heury, the year following, by an aA of parliament confirmed to himlelf all the abbies in Ireland. By an a^ of this parliament, the thle of King of Ireland was annexed to the crown of England; the Kings of England having been, before that time, ilyled only Lords of Ireland; and Meath, having been considered too large for the jurifdi^on of <me Sheriff, was dividel itfto Eaft and Weftmeath.
The town of Navan was about this time burned, and pillaged, by Con O'Neil, in revenge for fome depredations committed on his territories by Grey the Lord Deputy; after which it was walled, and the expence defrayed by a cefe laid on the counties of Meath and Weft Meath, for that purpofe.*

Internet Archive statisticalsurv00thomgoog, Chapter 4

As the companion tells it

Somewhere close to Bective, you have Bective Abbey, which suffered the same fate as the other dissolved monasteries. Henry VIII, the year following, by an act of parliament, confirmed to himself all the abbeys in Ireland. By that same act, the title of King of Ireland was annexed to the crown of England, the Kings of England having been before that time styled only Lords of Ireland. Meath, having been considered too large for the jurisdiction of one sheriff, was divided into East and West Meath. Around this same time, the town of Navan was burned and pillaged by Con O'Neil, in revenge for some depredations committed on his territories by Grey the Lord Deputy. After which it was walled, and the expense defrayed by a cess laid on the counties of Meath and West Meath for that purpose.

Boyne Canal Doubles Property Values in Navan

Navan · town · Meath · 1780–1802

The extension of the Boyne navigation from Drogheda to Navan greatly benefited the town, nearly doubling the value of land and houses in and around Navan compared to fifteen or twenty years earlier. The canal also increased the grain market and facilitated trade with Drogheda.

Read the passage

The canals of this county, generally fpeaking, muft be looked upon as in their infancy, nor can the diftrid tinder furvey boaft of more than two running through it, viz. the Boyne, and a imall part of the Royal canal* Xhe former is navigable from Drogheda to Navan, which latter town it has fo greatly benefited, that all property, whether in lands or houfes, either in the town, or immediately in its neighbourhood, is nearly doubled in value from what it was fifteen or twenty years fince.
The

Internet Archive statisticalsurv00thomgoog, Chapter 80

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Navan, this is a town transformed by the Boyne canal. The navigation runs from Drogheda up here, and it has so greatly benefited the place that all property, whether lands or houses, in the town or its immediate neighbourhood, is nearly doubled in value from what it was fifteen or twenty years since. The grain market grew and trade with Drogheda opened up.

Descent of the Lordship of Meath through Lacy, Geneville, Mortimer

Meath · county · Meath

A manuscript traces the descent of the county of Meath: first held by Lacy, then by heir general to Geneville, then by marriage to Mortimer Earl of Marche and Ulster, and finally to the Earl of Cambridge, grandfather to King Edward IV, after which it was absorbed into the crown.

Read the passage

The county of Methe was firft in Lacye^ froin hioi by heir general it de£cended to Jenevillei from whoiQ,
by

Internet Archive statisticalsurv00thomgoog, Chapter 95

As the companion tells it

As you travel through Meath, this county was once a great lordship. It began with Lacy, passed by heir general to Geneville, then by marriage to Mortimer, Earl of March and Ulster. From there it reached the Earl of Cambridge, grandfather of King Edward the Fourth, before it was absorbed into the crown.

Geoffrey de Geneville, lord of Trim, under Edward II

Trim · town · Meath · 1309

A Lambeth manuscript records that Geoffrey de Geneville was lord of Trim in the second year of Edward II, and that Roger de Mortimer likewise held the lordship of Trim in the same year, documenting successive medieval lords of the town.

Read the passage

Gcofrey de Geneville, dominus de Trym, in anno 2 do. Edvardi fecundi.
Roger de Mortimer, dominus de Trym, anno 2do»

Internet Archive statisticalsurv00thomgoog, Chapter 96

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Trim, this was a town held by medieval lords. A Lambeth manuscript records that in 1309, the second year of Edward the Second, Geoffrey de Geneville was lord of Trim. The same record names Roger de Mortimer as holding the lordship of Trim in that same year.

New Plough Introduced Near Slane and Navan

Slane · townland · Meath · 1801–1802

A plough somewhat resembling the Meath plough, drawn by two or three horses for spring ploughing, was introduced in the neighbourhood of Slane and Navan in the past year and was well liked by those who tried it, being cheap to make.

Read the passage

A plough, Ibmewhat refembliag the Meath plougfa^ has been introduced m the neighbourhood of Slane and Navan this iaft year, drawn by two or three ' horfes for Ipring ploughing, which is much liked by* thofe, who have tried it; the beam is (hort, and the an« gle, which the moiild^board makes by its junction to the crofs. Is more acute than m the Meath plough; it is, beddes, made at a very inconfiderable expence^ which is the principal reafon why fo many of them have been made* The mould-board not being of me^ tal, occafions a greater degree of friftion, which renders three horfes generally neceflary*
Thefe, with iqme trifling alterations, are the only^ ploughs in ufe in the county, although I have been told, that the Leicefter wheel-plough was introduced here by Doftor H. Maxwell, late Bifliop of Meath, fome years iince ; but it was found incapable of going fufficiently deep, and, of courfe, being thought ufelefs was discarded^. The double fhell-board plough, for landing drilled potatoes, rape, &c. is in common ufe wherever drilling is praftifed.

Internet Archive statisticalsurv00thomgoog, Chapter 25

As the companion tells it

Somewhere close to Slane, a new plough was introduced in the past year, and the farmers who tried it liked it well. It resembled the Meath plough but had a shorter beam and a more acute angle where the mouldboard joined the cross. It was cheap to make, which is why so many of them were made, though the mouldboard was not of metal, causing more friction and generally needing three horses for spring ploughing. Doctor H. Maxwell, late Bishop of Meath, had introduced the Leicester wheel-plough some years before, but it was found incapable of going deep enough and was discarded. The double shell-board plough was in common use wherever drilling was practised.

Parliaments held in Trim Castle in the 1480s-90s

Trim Castle · monument · Meath · 1485–1493

In 1485, 1490, and 1493, Parliaments were held in Trim castle, after which time no further parliament was held there.

Read the passage

In 1485, 1490, and 1493, Parliaments were held in Trim caftle, fince which time there has not been any held there, that we caq find a record of. In 1494, the MHitary focicty or fraternity of St. George ceafcd to exifl, not having been found to anfwer the defigned end, or, as fome aflTert, on account of the ftate of the funds of Ireland, which were then too low to admit of fuch an expence, though eftimated only at five hundred pounds fterling yearly. Two years after which. Trim was cbnfumed by fire, communicated by lightmng; fhortly after which, died John Payne, Bifhop of Meath, a n^an eminent for his learning, piety, and political knowlege.
In the year 15^36, Henry the eighth caft a covetous eye upon the vaft pofTeffions of the church in Meath, and having begun in England to convert the property of monafteries to his own ufe, he was not long in determining tQ dp the like here alfo.

Internet Archive statisticalsurv00thomgoog, Chapter 4

As the companion tells it

Right here at Trim Castle in Meath, parliaments were held in 1485, 1490, and 1493, after which no more were held there, as far as any record shows. In 1494, the Military Fraternity of St. George ceased to exist, having failed to serve its purpose, or as some say, because the funds of Ireland were too low to support it, though the cost was estimated at only 500 pounds sterling yearly. Two years later, Trim was consumed by fire started by lightning, and shortly after that, John Payne, Bishop of Meath, died, a man noted for his learning, piety, and political knowledge. In 1536, Henry the eighth turned a covetous eye on the vast possessions of the church in Meath, and having begun in England to convert monastery property to his own use, he was not long in deciding to do the same here.

Planned canal extension to Trim and Athboy via Kildalkey

Trim · town · Meath

There was a fair prospect that the Boyne canal would advance to Trim in the coming summer, with an intended branch to Athboy through Kildalkey, opening trade with a fine tract of country and an extensive bog.

Read the passage

opened between the centre of this produAive county and the fea j an eafy» fecure, and cheap communica^ tkm, for the produce of the 'foil, gives powers inde« fcribable to the hufbandman's efforts. In the courie of the enibing fummer there is every fair profpeft of its advancing to Trim, from which, and the intended of& branch to Athboy, through Eildalky, the benefits arifing from opening a trade with fo fine a traft of country, together with the communicadon -mth to confiderable an extent of bog, are innumerable.
The Blackwater river is next in confideration to the Boync, into which it falls at Navan. It iflues out of Lough Ramor in the county of Cavan, as 1 have already mendoned, and enters Meath in the upper half barony of Eells.

Internet Archive statisticalsurv00thomgoog

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Trim, there was once a fair prospect that the Boyne canal would reach this town in the coming summer, with an intended branch running to Athboy through Kildalkey. The survey wrote that an easy, secure, and cheap communication for the produce of the soil gives powers indescribable to the husbandman's efforts. The benefits expected from opening a trade with so fine a tract of country, together with communication with so considerable an extent of bog, were described as innumerable.

Reilly's Nursery at Ballybeg, One of Ireland's Largest

Ballybeg · townland · Meath

A public nursery at Ballybeg near Kells, belonging to Mr. Reilly, is described as perhaps the largest of its kind in Ireland, rivaling even English nurseries. Reilly received premiums from the Dublin Society and trained apprentices who became useful members of society.

Read the passage

THE quantity of natural wood within this county is fo very fmalli that it is not worth confideration under a feparate head ; the plantations, however, are very ex« tenCve, about th^ different noblemen and gentlemen's feats ; fome arrived at, others approaching faft to mata« rity, and many in a ftate of infancy. I fhall begin with the public nurferies, which are fix in number, viz. one in Duleek barony, two in Trim, two near Summer-hill^ and one at Ballybeg, near Kells, belonging to Mr. Rdlly, which may be confidered, perhaps, the firft, in pdnt of extent, of any in Ireland. I have been told there are few more extenfirc nurferies even in Eng* land, and he is extending and improving it every year. When it is confidered, that twenty-^four Iriih acres (the extent of Mr. Reilly's nurfery) are equal to thirty-nine Englifli, this affertion will not feem fo very extraordinary as it may at firft fight appear. This, however^ will be feen by the following table of Iriih and Englifli
flOAafore, viz.

Internet Archive statisticalsurv00thomgoog, Chapter 47

As the companion tells it

Somewhere close to Ballybeg, Mr. Reilly ran a public nursery that may have been the largest in Ireland. The surveyor who recorded it in the Statistical Survey of the County of Meath noted that it covered 24 Irish acres, equal to 39 English acres, and that few nurseries in England were more extensive. Reilly was expanding and improving the nursery every year. The county itself had very little natural wood, but plantations around gentlemen's seats were widespread, some mature, others still young. His nursery at Ballybeg, near Kells, stood out among six public nurseries counted across the county.

Gustavus Lambart's Tree-Planting Reservation Clause on His Leases

Meath · county · Meath

Gustavus Lambart, Esq., reserved in all leases he granted the power to repossess up to four acres of any farm at any time during the lease term for the sole purpose of planting, while compensating the tenant for the value of land so taken.

Read the passage

Some tenants are bomid, in heav^ penahtes, to Ucj down a certain pttjipona^ti^ and ibme tfaie whole of their knd^ ^adpr grais-feeds, the laft three years of didr leafe* The late Earl of Be&ure, jad ibme few others in the connly, have dailies of n«)n-alienation in their leafes, teder penalty of forfeiture, without leave ia writing from the p^prietsor. GuftaVus Lambart, Efq. has reierved to himielf, in all leaies granted by lum, the power of repoSeiCng, at any time during ^he.term^ any part of each farm, not exceeding four acres, for the fole purpoTe of planting; he muil, however, allow ^ tenant the valup of the knd fo planted. He has alfo claules of non-alienadon in all his leaies, without cokifeat under his hand and ieal. Clauies of furrender and re^fliimptiioo are to be met with in leaies, but &ot fipequeatly.
.' Somie few years fince it was an eafy matter to get a lo6g Icafei but the late fiidden rife upoi^ lands has

Internet Archive statisticalsurv00thomgoog, Chapter 23

As the companion tells it

As you travel through County Meath, the leases here once carried unusual terms. Some tenants were bound, under heavy penalties, to lay down a certain portion, and some the whole of their land, as grass-seeds in the last three years of their lease. The late Earl of Belmore and a few others in the county had clauses of non-alienation in their leases, under penalty of forfeiture, without leave in writing from the proprietor. Gustavus Lambart reserved to himself, in all leases granted by him, the power of repossessing, at any time during the term, any part of each farm, not exceeding 4 acres, for the sole purpose of planting. He must, however, allow the tenant the value of the land so planted. He also had clauses of non-alienation in all his leases, without consent under his hand and seal. Clauses of surrender and resumption appeared in leases too, but not frequently.

Kilkenny coal sold by the hundred

Kilkenny · city · Kilkenny · 1800–1802

The passage notes that Kilkenny coal was sold by the hundred, distinguishing it from lime and sea-coal sold by measured barrel, as an example of the county's varied measurement customs.

Read the passage

Hour ii:ilb,'.per cwt; oatmeal iialb.io fome places, in others laolb. Bran is geoerally fold by m^afurei and pollard by weight, eight ftone maluDg a barrel. • Beef is fold in fbme. markets by the fcore, an^ ia others by the poudd ; a pound contains %t^n oun^s, and a ftone fourteen pounds of every thing, except vdol, which has fixteen pounds to tb^ ftone, and fevea ftone to the hundred. Lime, fea-coal, and culm, are fold by the meafured barrel; Kiljcenny coal by the. hundred ; hay and ftraw by the ton, or by the load^ containing 4|. cwt,
Ih the meafurement of lime, there is a fcai^dalpus negleft of obferving, that it be meafured by a ftamped barrel. Lime-burners, who are difpofed for fraudji have ample means, by contriving the meafure, which they call a barrel, to b^ as narrow in dimeniions as they pleafe.

Internet Archive statisticalsurv00thomgoog, Chapter 93

Mr. Gibney's bog reclamation experiment

Meath · county · Meath · 1801

The author's neighbour Mr. Gibney conducted an experiment reclaiming sour upland using ashes from a pared and burned bog, producing one of the most luxuriant crops of rape the author had witnessed. Gibney also detailed his method of scarifying the bog before burning and itemised the costs of the operation per acre.

Read the passage

I have been told, that there cannot be a better topdrefling for upland, that poflfefles any degree of fournefs, or produces coarfe grafs, than thdfe afhes. My neighbour, Mr. Gibney, is making an experiment upon four upland, >vith aflies taken from a bog, pared and burned by him laft fummer; they are extremely heavy^ poflefling a fertilizing quality in a great proportion^ and the bog thus treated is now bearing one of the mofV luxuriant crops of rape, that I ever remember to have feen; when laid down, it will probably be one o£ the beft meadows on the farm.
Before Mr. Gibney ploughed up his bog, he fcarU fied it, at leaft nine inches deep, with a plough without a ihell-board» or (hare, in lines about two feet and a half afunder, runnmg crofswife from the way the ridges were to run. The ufe of this fcarifying Is^ that the fods, which are generally tough from the quantity of aquatic roots, with which they^abound, may not be too long, for boys to gather together in heaps with pitchforks, for the purpofe of burning, which, i£ not thus fcarified, would be very unhandy. He values the expence of paring and burning an acre of bog, as follows, viz.

Internet Archive statisticalsurv00thomgoog, Chapter 54

As the companion tells it

As you travel through Meath, you are passing the county where, in 1801, a farmer named Mr. Gibney ran a remarkable experiment on sour upland. He took ashes from a bog he had pared and burned the previous summer and spread them on the land. The result was one of the most luxuriant crops of rape the author of the county survey had ever seen, and when it was laid down it would probably become one of the best meadows on the farm. Before Gibney ploughed up his bog, he scarified it at least 9 inches deep, using a plough without a share-board, in lines about 2 and a half feet apart and running crosswise to the direction of the ridges. The purpose was to keep the sods short enough for boys to gather into heaps with pitchforks for burning. Without that scarifying, the sods would be too long and unhandy, since they are generally tough from the quantity of aquatic roots in them. He also drew up a reckoning of what it cost to pare and burn an acre of bog.

Mr. Murphy's malt-house and distillery on the Boyne at Navan

Navan · town · Meath · 1800–1802

Mr. Murphy operated a large malt-house and distillery at Navan, paying between £900 and £1,300 monthly in duty. His malt-house was built on the Boyne so that corn could be brought by water from Drogheda directly to the mill.

Read the passage

which is« however^ a much better market for yarn thaa for Imen} and fome few weavers^ who make liaen near Nobber and EUmamhamwood, find a ready iak in the market of King's^xmrty in the county of Cavan; a large proportion of the coarie linens of the county ii fold in Droghtda, In the barooiea of Dnnbc^nft and Ratoath there ia hardly any foch thing as fpivung ta be met vAtki the female f^xt of the family ia» of coorlbi bred up in total idlcnef^ ori what U woirf^^ in breaking and deftroyu>g the fences to fupply firing* Some coarie frizes are made here alfo^ but they are only for home conf^a4>tiQii* Whi4^> if }t may. he called a manufaAure^ is diftiUed in large <piaotUfia at Navan^; Mr. Murphy alone pays from iPOQ to 1^300/. per month duty, fpr bis malt-houTe and difttlt lery; his malt-h<M»fe> conftruAed on the b^ pl?o>)s ereAed on the verge pf the Boyne river, which is na^ vigable i^ider ks wallsj by which oieans he conveys all his corn by water-carriagp from Drogbeda, ^d his malt to his mill by the fame cpms^u^ation*
Mr..M<Donnell has a m^^nufa^bory n^r Navtn^ for the coarser kinds of paper, which fuccec^isd very wcU^ of late he manufaAures writing-paper. Mr. Cpxon, a^ EnglUh gentleman, is now efeAing a co«ton-mill on the Boyne, below Navan, on a fite belonging to th^ Boyne canaly very favourable to its extenfion, which, if it li^cceeds, will give employment to ibme hundreds of poor duldren, at preient brought up in habits of idlenefst

Internet Archive statisticalsurv00thomgoog, Chapter 84

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Navan in Meath, the Boyne runs through the town, and around 1800 it powered a substantial distillery. Mr. Murphy operated a malt-house and distillery here, paying between £900 and £1,300 per month in duty alone. He built his malt-house right on the Boyne because the river is navigable under its walls, so he could bring all his corn by water from Drogheda and carry his malt to his mill the same way. Other industries were growing in the town too. Mr. McDonnell had a paper manufactory for the coarser kinds, and had lately begun making writing-paper. Mr. Coxon, an English gentleman, was erecting a cotton-mill on the Boyne below Navan, on a site belonging to the Boyne canal that was very favourable to its expansion. If it succeeded, it would give employment to some hundreds of poor children, at present, as the survey puts it, "brought up in habits of idleness."

Sir John Meredyth's deep-ploughing experiment at Newtown

Newtown · townland · Meath · 1780–1802

At Newtown, the late Sir John Meredyth used two ploughs (one drawn by four bullocks, the other by six) to turn the ground upside down to a depth of twenty to twenty-four inches, but the field never recovered its original quality even twenty years later.

Read the passage

* At Newtfywn, a part of this d^d, the late Sir Jdm Meredyth put two ploughs to work (odc drawn by four, and the other by fix bullocks), following each the other in the fame track, by which the ground was completely turned up* fide down, to the depth of from twenty to twenty-four inches: the under part, to dl appcarauce, was as good as the furface, yet that field has not recovered its original quality, though it is now perhaps twenty years fince it was fo treated. But if the iame depth and change had been effedled by little and ht-. tic, «nd worked from the fur&ce by degrees, fuppofe from one to two inches deeper each year, which ftill keeps the ground frefh and frefli, and the foil, by being thus mixed together, retains its vegetative qualities, it might not have had that efFeft,
I !fome time fince laid out a finall piece of ground for a nurfery, which I trenched two good ^it deep, and turned up from the bottom as good earth, in appearance, as that on the furface; yet feedlings, planted in this ground fo turned, all died; whilft die ftronger plants, that were put down a little

Internet Archive statisticalsurv00thomgoog, Chapter 9

Straw-plat manufacture perfected at Galtrim

Galtrim · townland · Meath

At Galtrim in Deece barony, straw-plat work was brought to still greater perfection than at Dunboyne through the care of Mrs Dawson and Mrs Finlay, with plat sold unshaped due to changing bonnet fashions.

Read the passage

There is, upon the Nanny-water, one very cxtenfivc bleach-green, Bekynging to George Amiftrong, iBfq.' witfi a beetling-mMI, and other mathiQefry, reqnifitc for earring on the bnfineis. In the town and neighbonrb6pdof Dunboyne,' the ftraw»hat manufadnre is carficdontovery great extent, and the work, both of ^li^and whole ftfaw, is thdught to equal, if not fnrjn&f that made at Dunftable. It is brought to this great pbrfeSioo, thrbngh the exerdons of Mfs HamiltOQ,of:Hiimwoodi and at Galtrim, in Deece barony, from^die^are and attention of Mrs. Dawfon and Mrs. Flnhyy:it-hag' been, brought to.ftill greater perfeftion. lii'tlus'laft place the- plat is fold, as* the fafhions, for tbeform-of booiKts, hats, Sec. change fo frequently, thatdt is confidered the bleft plan, not to put the plat into (hope.^ Coarfdr kinds of ftraw-work, fuch as bon-^ BistsV &c* are ma<feln maqy parts of the county, but not any to equal thoie mad^ at Dunboyne or Galtrim* The 'manufa€hire of flat and pan-tiles, garden-^pots, crocks^ pans, and all kinds of coarfe ^pottery, is carried on at Knock, in Morgallion barony, which is very conveniently fituated with refpeft to turf, the only fuel ufed, as before mentioned^
. Clofe to the bog of Garriftown, in Dnieek: barony, there are a grea^ number of nailers, who difpofe of their manufaAure in the retail /hops of Drogheda, &c.

Internet Archive statisticalsurv00thomgoog, Chapter 84

Navan market as the corn depot of Meath

Navan · town · Meath

Navan's Wednesday market was by far the best in the county for quantity and quality of corn sold, attributed to the Boyne canal linking it easily to the port of Drogheda; it was also strong for cattle, hogs, butter and linen.

Read the passage

^avan, on Wednefday, which is by far the beft market 10 the county, both for the quantity and quality of the corn fold there. This, as may be eafily imagined, muft be attributable to the Boyne canal being finished fo far, which furnifhes an eafy communication with the great corn port of Drogheda. It , is alfo a good market for ftore and fat cows, particularly from the firft of September to Chriftmas, during which time about one hundred head are fold at each market, on an average, exclufive of thofe turned put unfold; and in the fpring and fummer months, fpringers and dry cows are expofed for fale. It is alfo fupplied with vaft numbers of bacon hogs and porkers, butter, in large quantities, fome coarfe linen, yarn, frizes, and c c ' country
Digitized by VjOOQ IC

Internet Archive statisticalsurv00thomgoog, Chapter 83

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Navan, you're in the main corn market of Meath. On Wednesdays this town held the best market in the county for both the quantity and quality of corn sold, thanks to the Boyne canal giving easy access to the great corn port of Drogheda. It was a strong cattle market too, especially from September to Christmas, when about 100 head sold each market day on average. Through spring and summer, springers and dry cows were offered for sale. The market also drew vast numbers of bacon hogs and porkers, butter in large quantities, and some coarse linen, yarn, and friezes.

Ardbraccan stone quarried since the sixteenth century for castles

Ardbraccan · townland · Meath · 1500–1600

Stone from the Ardbraccan quarry ridge, extending to the Blackwater, has been taken since the beginning of the sixteenth century, as evidenced by the quoins, door and window cases of neighbouring castles built from this stone.

Read the passage

tafte and liberality, whether confidered in refpefl: to the elegant fimplicity of the defign, or accuracy of the execution. This ftone is fufceptibk of a fine polifh^ and makes very neat chimney pieces, of a greyifh colour when poliflied, although ftom the cbifel 4t is white. This rock extends in a ridge from Ardbraccan to the Black-^water, but the quarries opened in different parts of the ridge, though nearly equal in colour, have not turned out blocks of equal fcantling to that on the hill. Tombftones, and door-cafes of this Aone, are fent to very great diftances by land carriage ; but when the pcoje^ed line of naviga^on, from the north of Ireland to Dublin, through Kells, Navan, &c. is executed, which is to run within a very few perches of this quarry, the ftone, from the facility and cheapnefs of carriage, will become of more gene* ral ufe. The quarrying of it is attended with conliderable expence, from the great flow of water conftantly iffuing from Ipringsj yet ftone has been taken from It lince the beginning of the i6th century, as may be concluded from the quoins, door and window (;afes, &c. of the caftles in the neighbourhood, built about that period, being principally of this ftone.
Acres. Upper Navan, by the docket, contains 8,689

Internet Archive statisticalsurv00thomgoog, Chapter 12

As the companion tells it

Somewhere around here lies a ridge of stone that runs from Ardbraccan to the Blackwater. The stone is white from the chisel but takes on a greyish colour when polished, and it was used for chimney pieces, tombstones, and door-cases sent great distances by land carriage. Quarrying it was expensive work, with water constantly issuing from springs in the rock. But stone has been taken from this ridge since the beginning of the 1500s, as you can tell from the quoins and the door and window cases of the castles in the neighbourhood built around that period. The quarries opened in different parts of the ridge did not all yield blocks of equal size to the one on the hill.

Coxon's new cotton-mill on the Boyne below Navan

Navan · town · Meath · 1800–1802

An English gentleman, Mr. Coxon, was erecting a cotton-mill on the River Boyne below Navan on land belonging to the Boyne canal, expected to employ hundreds of poor children otherwise idle.

Read the passage

Mr..M<Donnell has a m^^nufa^bory n^r Navtn^ for the coarser kinds of paper, which fuccec^isd very wcU^ of late he manufaAures writing-paper. Mr. Cpxon, a^ EnglUh gentleman, is now efeAing a co«ton-mill on the Boyne, below Navan, on a fite belonging to th^ Boyne canaly very favourable to its extenfion, which, if it li^cceeds, will give employment to ibme hundreds of poor duldren, at preient brought up in habits of idlenefst
for

Internet Archive statisticalsurv00thomgoog, Chapter 84

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Navan, an English gentleman named Coxon is building a cotton-mill on the River Boyne just below the town, on land belonging to the Boyne canal. The site is favourable for expansion. If the venture succeeds, it will employ some hundreds of poor children, at present brought up in habits of idleness. Nearby, Mr. M'Donnell runs a paper manufactory for coarser papers, lately adding writing-paper.

Drogheda Market Regulates Meath Grain Prices

Drogheda · town · Louth · 1795–1801

The prices of corn in Meath are said to be regulated by Drogheda market, with grain selling cheaper at Navan due to carriage costs. Boat owners on the Boyne canal profitably bought corn at Navan to resell at Drogheda when prices were rising.

Read the passage

The prices of corn, in this county, arc regulated by Drogheda market; all kinds of grain felling at Navan, which is the greateft com market in this county, by the amount of the carriage, lower than they fell ifl^ Drogheda; fo that it has become a trade with th^' owners of luggage-boats, plying on the Boyne canal, to buy corn in Natan market, and fend it to Drogheda in their boats, which muft otherwife ply to Drogheda with ballaft. When cora is riixog, this is a profitable trade, but, when £aUiag| it is the contrary.
Corn generally advances 10 price, fr4Dm the latter <md --of February, until towards the enfuing hanreft.

Internet Archive statisticalsurv00thomgoog, Chapter 78

As the companion tells it

Up ahead is Drogheda, the town that set the price of corn for all of Meath. In the years around 1795 to 1801, every kind of grain sold cheaper at Navan, the greatest corn market in the county, by exactly the cost of carrying it here. The owners of luggage boats on the Boyne canal turned that gap into a trade, buying corn at Navan and sending it down to Drogheda in their boats, which would otherwise have come empty. When corn prices were rising it was a profitable trade; when they were falling, it was the opposite. Corn generally rose in price from the end of February until the harvest came in.

High walls enclosing Summerhill, Stackallen and Beauparc demesnes

Summerhill · street · Meath

The demesne of Summerhill is enclosed with a very high wall, as is the demesne of Stackallen, the seat of Lord Boyne, and Beauparc, the seat of Gustavus Lambart, Esq.

Read the passage

I ihould not omit mentioning here the wall round the demefne of Headfort, built by the late Earl of BeAive^ enclofing an area^ as I am informed, of from twelve to fifteen hundred Iri(h acres; it is twelve feet high, and built in the beft manner, being grouted throughout, and neatly coped with fmall round ftofnes. The demefne of Summerhill too is enclofed with a very high wall, as is alfo the demefnfe* of Stackallen, the feat of Lord Boyne, and Beauparc the feat of . Guftavus Lambart, Efq. together with a few more.
Ditches are cheap in their original formation; they afford good flielter for cattle, are eafily repaired, draia ^ the ground, and are a continual fourcc of manure, affording either limeftone gravel or mud; and they fupply the farmer annuaHy with a certain proportion of fuel from the plaftiing, and timber for the purpofes of hufbandry. The hedgerows give an appearance of comfort to the farm, on which they grow, and enrich and beautify the face of the country. The compare* tive expeace of the two fences may be thus ratqd^.

Internet Archive statisticalsurv00thomgoog, Chapter 30

Roller Made in Kells for Eight Guineas

Kells · town · Meath

A wooden double-cylinder roller designed for use in light or heavy ground was made in Kells at a cost of about eight guineas, and could be fitted to a common car for smaller works.

Read the passage

cylinder is then fet ia a frame> with three (hafts, for two horfes drawing abreaft, to prevent their track being too much in one [dace; on this frame is a box, to holid any weight of fand, &c. that may be thought neceflfary to add to the weight of the cylinder, according to the nature of the foil to be rolled. This machine was made in Kells, the expence about eight guineas ; a cylinder of this extent might be made to fit a common car occafionally, which, except in exteniive works, would anfwer perfeftly well.
The principal objeftion to the roller, whofe cylinder is metal, is, that it cannot be made light enough for day grounds. I ufe a harrow, the plan of which I got from Captain Rawfon, of the county of Kildare, which is called by him the flicer ; but inflead of having the pins ftationary, as with him, I let mine turn round in the harrow-buU, the tail, like a rudder, always keeping behind the draught. The frame of it is made of wood, exaftly like the four-horfe harrow already dcfcribed in the plate, No. 5 ; but the pins are made of flat iron, and edged with fteel. Its ufes are for thef purpofe of reducing the fods of a tough lea, or the clods of a ftifF fummer fallow on clay grounds. The common harrow is liable to be lifted up by the ftiff lumps, or tough fods, and joggled off the v/otk ; but the flicer, from the fliarpnefs of the pins on the edge, and oblique direAion^ cuts its way finoothly through-

Internet Archive statisticalsurv00thomgoog, Chapter 27

As the companion tells it

As you come through Kells, this is where a wooden double-cylinder roller was made for about eight guineas. It was set in a frame with three shafts, for two horses drawing abreast, so their track would not wear too much in one place. A box sat on the frame to hold sand or whatever weight was needed, depending on the nature of the soil to be rolled. The survey notes that a cylinder of this extent might be made to fit a common car occasionally, which, except in extensive works, would answer perfectly well. The main objection to a metal-cylinder roller was that it could not be made light enough for clay grounds. The author instead used a harrow he called the slicer, the plan for which he got from Captain Rawson of the county of Kildare. Its pins were made of flat iron edged with steel, and instead of being stationary they turned round in the harrow-bull, the tail keeping behind the draught like a rudder. It was used for reducing the sods of a tough lea or the clods of a stiff summer fallow on clay grounds, where the common harrow would be lifted by the lumps and joggled off the work.

Ruined castles and abbeys attest Meath's ancient grandeur

Meath · county · Meath

The number of ruined castles throughout Meath denotes the grandeur it enjoyed in earliest periods, and the towers, abbeys and monasteries scattered across the county suggest it was once considered 'the land of saints', implying a large ancient population.

Read the passage

together with the rapid improvement in the public roads> from the laudable exertions of the Grand jury, contribute, in no fmall degree, to render it a country, alike fit for the cultivator, manufaAurer, and mechanic. . From the level afpeft, which the country prefents^ it is not confidered as affording lb many pifturefquc views as other counties of Ireland, through which the natural advantages of bill and dale are more generally interfperfed; yet, even in this point, it cannot^ confidered as totally deficient, or even uninterefling : whoever is acquainted with the banks of the Boyne, muft acknowledge the truth of this afTertion ; the views of Slane, Beaupark, Farm, Oldbridge, Newtown, Beftive, Rathnally, Balinter, Black-cafUe, Ardf^Uagh, &c. I believe, need not yield in beauty to many in the kingdom. The grand and highly improved manfions of many refideat ' noblemen and gentlemen befpeak its prefent opulence ; whilfl: the number of caflles in ruin denote the pitch of grandeur it enjoyed, even in the oarlieft periods. A flranger, viewing the towers, abbeys, and monafteries difperfed throughout the county, would be inclined to exclaim, " This was the land of femts indeed '" And from the number of thefe religious foundations, and the remains of towns or villages near each, arifes a fair conclufion, that the population of Meath, in ages far remote, was very confiderable indeed!
Sect.

Internet Archive statisticalsurv00thomgoog, Chapter 5

As the companion tells it

As you travel through Meath, the country presents a level aspect, and may not afford as many picturesque views as other counties of Ireland where hill and dale are more generally interspersed. Yet whoever is acquainted with the banks of the Boyne must acknowledge that it is not totally deficient or uninteresting. The views of Slane, Beaupark, Farm, Oldbridge, Newtown, Bestive, Rathnally, Balinter, Black-castle, Ardfinagh need not yield in beauty to many in the kingdom. The grand and highly improved mansions of many resident noblemen and gentlemen bespeak its present opulence, whilst the number of castles in ruin denote the pitch of grandeur it enjoyed even in the earliest periods. A stranger, viewing the towers, abbeys, and monasteries dispersed throughout the county, would be inclined to exclaim, "This was the land of saints indeed." And from the number of these religious foundations, and the remains of towns or villages near each, arises a fair conclusion that the population of Meath, in ages far remote, was very considerable indeed.

Tankardstown labourers' houses built by Brabazon Morris

Tankardstown · townland · Meath

Brabazon Morris, Esq. built at Tankardstown a very good range of houses for his labouring tenants, noted for their quality.

Read the passage

it woald be <3ttremely' wrong in tne to omit mea* tiontog here choft |>erion8, who have been attentive to pro^e comfortable habiiadons for the poor on thdr eftates. Amongft tbeTe, the Right Hon. John Fofter* late Speaker of the Irifli Hoafe of .Commons, ftandi coofpioMoos. On that part of his eftate between Colkm and ^ne, he has baiit feme very neat cottages^ where ike internal comfon of the cottager t^ ftndied with (occeft. Brabaeon Morris, Efq. has built, at Tankardftown, a very good range of labouring tenants houies. The late l^r James SomerviUe, fome time before his death, boKt for hh labourers a range of csfbbitts near Us demeihe, which, for neataefs aad caovenieace, miift be clai9ed' among thofe moft approved of in the ceaaty : each of thefe has a garden, and an outoffice for a pig and cow.
- The cotders on the Summer-hill property are well lodged. There is alfo a good range of flated cottages belong^ to the Marquis of Headfort, at Kolinainham near Kells. Guftavus Laoibart, Efq. has his laboarlog tenants well lodged; his houfes arobuik in one taogey

Internet Archive statisticalsurv00thomgoog, Chapter 22

Statistical Survey of the County of Meath

The stories, best first

Controversy over Hugh de Lacy's burial between abbeys

St. Kieran's cell and holy well at Castlekeeran

St. Mary's Abbey at Bective built by Murchard O'Melaghlin

Burning of the statue of the Virgin Mary at Trim

Danish fort on Tara Hill used by Turgesius

Danish defeat at Tara in 980

Parliament held in Trim's Black Friary

St. Luman built St. Mary's Abbey at Trim

St. Columb founds St. Mary's Abbey at Kells

Boyne navigation transforms trade and population of Navan

Mint established in Trim Castle

Richard Duke of York builds Trim church steeple

Black Friary of Dominicans founded in Trim

Castle of Trim built by William Peppard, 1220

English-run Cheese Manufactory Established at Slane

Navan burned and pillaged by Con O'Neil

River Nanny's romantic course through Somerville demesne

Tenants of ill repair at Athboy under Samuel Waller

Dissolution of abbeys near Trim, Duleek and Ballybogan

Marquis of Lansdowne's absentee estate of 66,000 acres

Destruction of image of Christ at Ballybogan

Differing weights: Kells vs Navan

Michael Tisdall's tenant houses at Charlesfort

Patrick Murphy's Water-Powered Threshing Mill at Ardmulchan

Priory of Augustin canons founded at Newtown near Trim

Round Tower at Donaghmore near Navan

Sterne and Chetwood Apprenticeship Fund Linked to Ardbraccan

Subsidy levied to build the walls of Navan

The Earl of Bective's great wall around Headfort demesne

Charter School for Boys at Ardbraccan

De Lacy's grant and division of Meath into baronies

Doctor Beaufort's Ploughman Wins Premiums at Collon

Trim consumed by fire from lightning

Straw-hat manufacture at Dunboyne rivals Dunstable

Charter School for Girls at Trim

Lord of Killeen and Dunsany musters 24 horsemen

Sackcloth weaving industry centred on Navan

Ardbraccan limestone quarry and the bishop's palace

Bective Abbey suppressed by Henry VIII

Boyne Canal Doubles Property Values in Navan

Descent of the Lordship of Meath through Lacy, Geneville, Mortimer

Geoffrey de Geneville, lord of Trim, under Edward II

New Plough Introduced Near Slane and Navan

Parliaments held in Trim Castle in the 1480s-90s

Planned canal extension to Trim and Athboy via Kildalkey

Reilly's Nursery at Ballybeg, One of Ireland's Largest

Gustavus Lambart's Tree-Planting Reservation Clause on His Leases

Kilkenny coal sold by the hundred

Mr. Gibney's bog reclamation experiment

Mr. Murphy's malt-house and distillery on the Boyne at Navan

Sir John Meredyth's deep-ploughing experiment at Newtown

Straw-plat manufacture perfected at Galtrim

Navan market as the corn depot of Meath

Ardbraccan stone quarried since the sixteenth century for castles

Coxon's new cotton-mill on the Boyne below Navan

Drogheda Market Regulates Meath Grain Prices

High walls enclosing Summerhill, Stackallen and Beauparc demesnes

Roller Made in Kells for Eight Guineas

Ruined castles and abbeys attest Meath's ancient grandeur

Tankardstown labourers' houses built by Brabazon Morris