Statistical survey of the county of Cork : with observations on the means of improvement ; drawn up for the consideration, and by the direction of the Dublin Society

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

1. Orchards and cider in Killeagh parish

   Killeagh · town · Cork

   The parish of Killeagh in the Imokilly district is noted for its several orchards and the production of very good cider. The locality is described as well situated for orchard cultivation.

   Read the passage

   A few instances excepted, the usual defects are observable in tiie farmer's domestic establishment. Mud walls, thatched roofs, and ill planned uncomfortable houses are mostly seen. The advantage of ^ a proper farm-yard and offices is equally rare. Though, from the number of gentlemen** demesnes and handsome seats, a good deal of local plantation appears, all tracts of common farm land exhibit the usual display of bare unsheltered nakedness. Nature, however, affords to most parts of tlie district every encouragement the planter can desire. The summits of lulls, particularly those adjoining the ocean on the south side, seem to be the only situations of a forbidding nature. Farther in, and more especially on the low limestone tracts, trees of all kinds abundantly flourish: Proper encouragement alone is wanting, and attended with less difficulty here than in many other parts of the county, as, besides the numerous nurseries at Cork, there is a very good one at Castlemartyr. The demand for young trees is at present very considerable in all, but the chief purchasers are gentlemen. Many parts am well situated for orchards, of which there are several, particularly in the parish of Killeagh where very good cider is made.

   The state of the common labourer differs litt!o« from that, which fcas been so often described In

   Internet Archive statisticalsurv11socigoog, Chapter 218

2. Dunkettle estate described

   Dunkettle · townland · Cork

   Dunkettle, located on the opposite side of the inlet from Lota, is described as perhaps the most beautiful situation in the kingdom, with a commanding view of the river and a well-planted lawn.

   Read the passage

   commanding a fine view of the Cork river, has been long celebrated for thp correct architectural style of the house, and the still more beautiful richness and variety of the grounds. For this it was indebted to the taste and judgment of the late Robert Rogers, Esq. It has since passed through different hands, and is now the property of Robert Courtney, Esq.. Much of the old demesne has been let off, and $eyQral pretty seats built on the dissevered lots. On the opposite side of the inlet is Dupkettle, the mosjb' beautiful situation, perhaps, in the kingdom. This fine place is the property of Abraham Morris, Esq. by wbojon the present verf handsome house was built a few years since. The form of the ground, gently sloping to the south and west, affords a most commanding view of the river without the inconve* nience of an over-elevated situation.. The city of Cork terminates the western prospect, 'while the front. of, the bouse takes in the broad extent of the rives a* far as the. town of Passage, with the rich scenery of the Little island at one side, and of the Blackrack coast on the other. All the situations on this river are fine, bat none of them enjoy, so extern sive a combination of beauties as Dunkettle. Without standing high it sees more and in a better point of view, and it possesses one advantage, which all the others mat, a considerable extent of well shaped

   and

   Internet Archive statisticalsurv11socigoog, Chapter 211

   As the companion tells it

   Somewhere close to Dunkettle, you are passing one of the most admired estates on the river. The Statistical Survey of Cork called this perhaps the most beautiful situation in the kingdom. The property belongs to Abraham Morris, who built the present handsome house here a few years before the survey was written. The ground slopes gently to the south and west, giving a commanding view of the river without the inconvenience of standing too high. From the front of the house the prospect runs west, where the city of Cork closes the view, while the broad extent of the river stretches as far as the town of Passage. Little Island lies to one side, and the Blackrock coast to the other. The survey notes that all the situations along this river are fine, but none of them enjoy so extensive a combination of beauties as Dunkettle. Without standing high, it sees more, and in a better point of view, than the rest. It possesses one advantage which all the others want, a considerable extent of well shaped ground, though the survey's words are cut off before it finishes the thought.

3. Scarcity of gold coin in Cork city

   Cork · city · Cork · 1810

   The author notes that gold and silver have largely vanished from everyday circulation. In Cork city, the appearance of a guinea in business dealings is regarded with wonder, suggesting that rural dwellers are hoarding cash.

   Read the passage

   of the farmer are sometimes put out to interest, but more frequently put tohide. The marriage of a daughter, for they take great pride in giving a handsome portion, draws out some of the concealed treasure; otherwise it seldom appears before the owner's death, unless it happens to be discovered and stolen by die sons. In times of public danger or calamity, this custom of hoarding takes plac6 in an inordinate degree. The quantity of cash'ai this moment in the county of Cork must be \erf considerable. Ten or twelve years ago rents were paid in specie, the farmers having no idea of any other circulating medium. Within that period gold and. silver (except some dollars and the late coinage of the latter) have wholly disappeared. The farmers, who trade to Dublin, commonly bring borne seme guineas with their paper. The latter is applied to the payment of rents and purchase of necessaries, the former goes to die board. Even in the city of Cork the appearance of a guinea, in the way of dealing, is regarded with some degree of wonder, from which it should seem that country men are the only hoarders. With them, however, the greatest part may be supposed to rest, as they possess so much less of that spirit of enter* prize and speculation, which calls wealth into active employment.

   The

   Internet Archive statisticalsurv11socigoog, Chapter 254

   As the companion tells it

   As you pass through Cork, the city carries a curious distinction from around 1810. Gold and silver had largely vanished from everyday circulation. Ten or twelve years before that, farmers had paid their rents in specie, knowing no other circulating medium. But within that period, gold and silver had wholly disappeared, except for some dollars and the late coinage of the latter. Farmers who traded to Dublin commonly brought home some guineas with their paper. The paper went to paying rents and buying necessaries. The guineas went to the board. Farmers hid their cash rather than putting it out to interest. A daughter's marriage could draw out some of the concealed treasure, for they took great pride in giving a handsome portion. Otherwise it seldom appeared before the owner's death, unless it happened to be discovered and stolen by the sons. In times of public danger or calamity, this hoarding took place to an inordinate degree. The quantity of cash in the county of Cork must have been considerable. Even in the city of Cork, the appearance of a guinea in the way of dealing was regarded with some degree of wonder. From this it seemed that country men were the only hoarders. With them the greatest part may be supposed to rest, as they possessed less of the spirit of enterprise and speculation that calls wealth into active employment.

4. Ancient abbey at Rosscarbery with lime-cemented walls

   Ross Carbery · town · Cork

   The abbey at Rosscarbery, a building of great antiquity, has remaining walls still admirably cemented with lime, proving early use of lime mortar in this area. Most old parochial churches in the neighbourhood were built without lime due to the absence of limestone in southwest Cork.

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   raths, by a wide ditch, of which tome part is stilt remaining. On the north aide is a cave running from east to west, the sides being supported bj walls, and covered over with coarse slates or flags, which are so near the surface as to be sometimes disturbed by the plough. As far as ooe can see, to appears to be low and narrow, and is said by the country people to extend much farther titan modem curiosity is willing to explore. Human bones af» often found within the area of this singular inckv* sure. Near the church are the remains of a vety small lime-kiln, supposed to he coeval with the church, and to have supplied lime for its use, some traces of which are discernible in the foundation, though I could not perceive any in the upper part of the walls, which are in a very mouldering state* Lime certainly was made use of here at a very early period, as appears from the abbey at Rose, a building of great antiquity, the remaining walls of which are still admirably cemented. Most of the old parochial churches of this neighbourhood were, however, built without it, as many houses still continue to be, not from ignorance of its use, but from the difficulty of obtaining it, no limestone being found in the southwest part of the county.

   About four hundred yards south of the old chufch, is a circle of large stones, thirty feet in diameter, five

   Internet Archive statisticalsurv11socigoog, Chapter 35

5. Blarney estate formerly residence of Earl of Clancarty

   near Blarney · townland · Cork

   The estate on which Blarney stands was formerly the demesne and favourite residence of the Earl of Clancarty, a nobleman of large possessions and head of the very old and respectable house of McCarthy. The natural advantages of the situation, including a great command of water, later induced James St. John Jeffries to establish a manufacturing town there.

   Read the passage

   Blarney, though a town of small size, is intitled to particular consideration, from die various branches of manufatture undertaken there within the last thirty or forty years, and the spirited and unremitting exertions of its successive possessed to maintain and extend them. The estate, oft which it stands, was formerly the demesne and favooritcf residence of the Earl of Claacarty, a nablema* of large possessions, and liead of the very old and respectable bouse of McCarthy.* It cot&btoea

   * Robert Bto&rthj , Es^. the present r*pr*s*tft*tffi*, it t vtrf rrspoc table gentleman of large fortune, who has a handsome seat at Carignavar io th.s part of the county.

   Internet Archive statisticalsurv11socigoog, Chapter 236

6. Boulting mill near Skibbereen by Wright and Clarke

   Skibbereen · town · Cork · 1785–1800

   Following the success of the Castletownshend mill, Samuel T. Wright and Mr. Clarke built another boulting mill on the same estate near Skibreen. The mill was in constant employment and abundantly supplied with corn from neighbouring farmers.

   Read the passage

   low the example. Samuel T. Wright, Esq: in conjunction with Mr. Clarke built another on the same estate, near Skibreen, and Messrs. Jervois, of Brade, erected a third at the bead of Glandore harbour. The last is but recently finished, the other two are in constant employment, and abundantly supplied with corn from the neighbouring farmers, though the quality of the grain is very inferior to that of the eastern crops.

   The most comfortable farmers, in general, are those, that live in the interior parts at some distance from the sea coast Population being there less crowded, land is obtained on more reasonable terms, and every occupier has enough. To a greater plenty of milk, an important article of subsistence, they add the advantage of fuel, in many places still sufficiently abundant Turf, however, from the great and increasing consumption, is diminishing fast, particularly in the eastern part of the district, where bog is less frequent. Their greatest inconvenience is want of manure, lime being too expensive, and aea sand very far removed. Large quantities of this are carried up the country, to the distance of several miles, from every strand and cove along the coast, where it is found. It is sometimes raised in deep water with dredges. Lighters are employed - in all the rivers, that admit any length of navigation,

   Internet Archive statisticalsurv11socigoog, Chapter 101

   As the companion tells it

   Coming up now is Skibbereen. On an estate here, Samuel T. Wright, together with Mr. Clarke, built a boulting mill, following the example of an earlier one. Wright and Clarke built this mill on the same estate, and Messrs. Jervois of Brade erected a third at the head of Glandore harbour. That last was only recently finished at the time of the survey. The other two were in constant employment, abundantly supplied with corn from the neighbouring farmers, though the quality of the grain was very inferior to that of the eastern crops. The survey notes that the most comfortable farmers lived in the interior, at some distance from the sea coast. Population was less crowded there, and every occupier had enough land on more reasonable terms. They had greater plenty of milk, and the advantage of fuel, turf being still sufficiently abundant in many places. Turf, however, was diminishing fast from increasing consumption, particularly in the east, where bog was less frequent. Their greatest inconvenience was want of manure, lime being too expensive, and sea sand far removed. Large quantities of sea sand were carried several miles inland from every strand and cove along the coast. It was sometimes raised in deep water with dredges, and lighters were employed in all the rivers that admitted any length of navigation.

7. Cape Clear lake reputed to cleanse vessels

   Clear Island · island or archipelago · Cork

   A large lake on the elevated south-west part of Cape Clear Island was said to possess the remarkable quality of rapidly cleaning any vessel immersed in it. Smith reported that water sent to Dublin was found to contain a small quantity of natron.

   Read the passage

   On the south-west part of the island, and in an elevated situation, is a pretty large lake, said to possess in a very eminent degree the quality of cleansing, in a short time, any vessel, however dirty, immersed in it. Smith says, that some of it, being transmitted to Dublin for examination, was found to contain a small quantity of natron. That it may possess the quality ascribed to it in some degree, is not improbable, but popular rumours of this nature are not always to be depended on. A small lake on Mount Gabriel was long said to be unfathomable, and the same author informs us, that it had been tried by a line of a hundred fathoms. The Rev. Philip French, some years resident at Skull, near the mountain, very reasonably doubting of the fact, had the curiosity to examine it himself, and found tbat the greatest depth did not exceed many feet.

   Like most parts of the south coast, this island abounds with excellent but useless quarries of building stone, and fine dark-coloured 8ags. These are sometimes taken to Cork as ballast, and sold there.

   Internet Archive statisticalsurv11socigoog, Chapter 104

8. Clonakilty corporate town with James I charter

   Clonakilty · town · Cork · 1603–1625

   Clonakilty, the most considerable town in East Carbery, owes its rise to the Boyle family. Its charter was granted by James I to Sir Henry Boyle, giving it a sovereign, recorder, burgesses, and freemen with privilege of holding sessions and a court of record.

   Read the passage

   peace, and a court of record for the recovery of debts under «£20. The charter was granted by James I. to Sir Henry Boyle, lord of the borough, by whom and his successors the sovereign is nominated, the burgesses annually electing three of their number, from which the lord of the borough selects one. The liberties extend one mile round in all directions. Before the union it returned two members to parliament, and would probably have retained its privilege, had the test of qualification been determined by the number of inhabitants. The town, and an extensive estate surrounding it, are now the property of the Earl of Shannon, under whose auspices, as well as the encouragements aet forward by the late earl, it is likely to become a flourishing place. By the present discontinuance of the Baltic trade many projected improvements in the building Hoe have been suspended, to the great disappointment of the undertakers, as well as the very serious injury of the tradesmen and poor labourers. Fortunately, however, before this took place, several new houses and some works of public utility and importance were accomplished. A porter brewery, the plan of which is remarkable for compact and convenient arrangement, and upon a scale of considerable magnitude, was built by

   Rickard

   Internet Archive statisticalsurv11socigoog, Chapter 110

   As the companion tells it

   As you come into Clonakilty, this is the most considerable town in East Carbery. Its charter was granted by James I to Sir Henry Boyle, lord of the borough. Under it, the sovereign is nominated by Boyle and his successors. The burgesses annually elect three of their number, from which the lord of the borough selects one. The charter gave the town the privilege of holding sessions of the peace and a court of record for the recovery of debts under 20 pounds. The liberties extend one mile round in all directions. Before the union, Clonakilty returned two members to parliament, and would probably have retained that privilege had qualification been determined by the number of inhabitants. The town and an extensive estate surrounding it are now the property of the Earl of Shannon. Under his auspices, and the encouragement set forward by the late earl, it is likely to become a flourishing place. The discontinuance of the Baltic trade has suspended many projected improvements in building, to the great disappointment of the undertakers and the serious injury of tradesmen and poor labourers. Fortunately, before this took place, several new houses and some works of public utility and importance were accomplished. A porter brewery, remarkable for compact and convenient arrangement and on a scale of considerable magnitude, was built.

9. Clonakilty linen market and annual fairs

   Clonakilty · town · Cork · 1730–1810

   Clonakilty was for many years a principal market for coarse linens and linen yarn, with Bandon merchants attending the weekly Friday market and annual fairs on 25 March, 29 September, and 1 November. Average weekly expenditure on these articles was about seven hundred pounds, a marked increase from Smith's 1730 estimate of twenty pounds per market day.

   Read the passage

   of corn and potatoes, large quantities of which are annually sent to Cork and Dublin. The returning vessels bring goods of various kinds oscasiohally, chiefly those of a ponderous nature, as bricks, tiles, earthen ware, &c. but the more regular conveyance of shop articles is by land-carriage from Cork. This will be greatly improved and facilitated by the new Hne of mail-coach road already laid out, from Cork to Skibbereen, the commencement of which is to take place in tlie ensuing summer. Cloghnikilty has also been for many years one of the principal markets for the sale of coarse linens and linen yarn, the chief buyers of which are the Bandon merchants, who regularly attend the weekly market on Fridays, and the yearly fairs held on the 25th of March, the * 29th of September, and 1st of November, old style. The average expenditure on these articles, including the fairs, on the days preceding which the greatest sales take place, is about seven hundred pounds t per week. The last two

   years,

   Internet Archive statisticalsurv11socigoog, Chapter 111

   As the companion tells it

   This is Clonakilty, here in Cork. For many years it was one of the principal markets for the sale of coarse linens and linen yarn. The chief buyers were the Bandon merchants, who regularly attended the weekly market on Fridays and the yearly fairs held on the 25th of March, the 29th of September, and the 1st of November, old style. The greatest sales took place on the days preceding the fairs. The average expenditure on these articles, including the fairs, was about 700 pounds per week. The town also sent large quantities of corn and potatoes annually to Cork and Dublin. Returning vessels brought bricks, tiles, and earthen ware, while shop articles came by land-carriage from Cork. A new line of mail-coach road from Cork to Skibbereen had been laid out, set to commence in the ensuing summer, which would greatly improve and facilitate this conveyance.

10. Cork city in Spenser's defense plan

    Cork · city · Cork · 1590–1600

    Spenser's plan for defending Munster assigned one hundred soldiers to Cork, both to command the town and to be ready for foreign contingencies. This reflects Cork's dual importance as an urban center and a potential point of foreign invasion.

    Read the passage

    tenia! defence ; the tame number at Castle mayne, a. convenient station far keeping all Desmond and Kerry ; at Kihaore, two hnudred, to break the nest of thieves there, and answer alike for the counties of Limerick and Cork ; another hundred at Cork, as weli to comaoand the town, at to be rcadj for foreign occasion ; two hundred at Water&rd for the same purposes ; a Hke number in the country of the JBurkes, riear Arlo and Muskerry Quirk, to guard the passes, through which thieves carried their plmndertoand from Monster; the remainder in Tipperary where, though not then, they might soon be wanted" When we consider the inadequacy off such a force in the same district, during the late ie* bcilioa, though so respectable a number of die natives were ranged on the side of government, it will lead us to conclude, that the whole of the population in his time must have been very greatly inferior to what it is now.

    The present population of this county, though not easily calculable to absolute arithmetical precision, admits a degree of ascertainment so near the truth, as to answer all the purposes of the curious, or statistical enquirer. To my friend, Thomas Newenham, Esq. from whose laborious and diligent researches the public has lately derived most useful and important information, I am indebted for

    Internet Archive statisticalsurv11socigoog, Chapter 28

    As the companion tells it

    As the road takes you through Cork, the city stood in Spenser's defense plan for Munster. Spenser assigned one hundred soldiers to Cork, as well to command the town as to be ready for foreign occasion. The same number went to Castlemaine, a convenient station for keeping all Desmond and Kerry. Two hundred went to Killarney, to break the nest of thieves there, and answer alike for the counties of Limerick and Cork. Two hundred went to Waterford for the same purposes. A like number went into the country of the Burkes, near Arlo and Muskerry, to guard the passes through which thieves carried their plunder to and from Munster. The remainder went to Tipperary, where, though not then, they might soon be wanted. When we consider the inadequacy of such a force in the same district during the late rebellion, though so respectable a number of the natives were ranged on the side of government, it leads to the conclusion that the whole population in his time must have been very greatly inferior to what it is now.

11. Cork old city on the River Lee island

    Cork · city · Cork

    The old city of Cork stood upon an island formed by the River Lee, which divides into two branches above the town and reunites below it. It was approached by two opposite bridges on the north and south channels, with the principal street running between them, still called the Main-street.

    Read the passage

    antiquity, has not possessed its present claim to distinction for any considerable length of time. Something more than one hundred years ago, it was inferior to Limerick and Waterford, and ranked only as the fourth city of Ireland. It is now next to Dublin* and may justly be considered as occupying no mean station among the third class of cities ii> the United kingdom. It is supposed to be coeval with t!e foundation of the cathedral in the beginning of the sixth century,, but probably owes its principal establishment to the Ostmen or Danes, under whom it received a regular conformation, and was surrounded by walls, in the ninth or tenth. The old city stood upon an island formed by the River Lee, which divides into two branches above the town, and unites again a little below it, embracing a considerable extent of low ground, subject to frequent inundation from high tides an4 floods. It was approached by two opposite bridges* one on the north, the other on the south channel, betweeu which ran the principal street of the city, still retaining the name of the Main-street A few smaller streets communicated with this oi\ the east and west sides, and probably constituted the greater part of the city in the time of the OsUpeu, as it was the most easily defensible by means of the bridges and surrounding wall. It is however likely,

    that

    Internet Archive statisticalsurv11socigoog, Chapter 243

    As the companion tells it

    Cork has not held its present standing for very long. A little over 100 years ago it was inferior to Limerick and Waterford, and ranked only as the fourth city of Ireland. It now stands next to Dublin, and may be considered among the third class of cities in the United Kingdom. It is supposed to date from the foundation of the cathedral in the beginning of the 6th century, but probably owes its principal establishment to the Ostmen or Danes, under whom it received a regular conformation and was surrounded by walls in the 9th or 10th century. The old city stood upon an island formed by the River Lee, which divides into two branches above the town and unites again a little below it, embracing a considerable extent of low ground subject to frequent inundation from high tides and floods. It was approached by two opposite bridges, one on the north, the other on the south channel, between which ran the principal street of the city, still retaining the name of the Main-street. A few smaller streets communicated with this on the east and west sides, and probably constituted the greater part of the city in the time of the Ostmen, as it was the most easily defensible by means of the bridges and surrounding wall.

12. Corrin Tierna mountain near Fermoy

    Corrin · townland · Cork

    One of the mountains called Coran Tierna rises almost perpendicularly to a pointed top from a deep swamp on the north side of Fermoy, presenting a very striking object. It appears a lofty mountain incapable of useful produce on its exalted summit.

    Read the passage

    placed upon an eminence considerably higher than some of the northern mountains. One of those called Coran Tierna, rising almost perpendicularly to a pointed top, from a deep swamp on the north side of Fermoy, is a very striking object. When passing under, it appears a lofty mountain, incapable of useful produce on a summit so exalted, which is probably the real case. Yet it is greatly exceeded in height by the lands about Watergrass-hill, which, in fact, possess a soil of no bad quality, and capable of producing every grain but wheat These, however, are part of a very extended range, on which the cold has much less injurious effect than on the more exposed nakedness of pointed hills. The view from these high lands is very grand, comprehending a great reach of low and fertile country inclosed by mountains of irregular form, and unequal altitude. A singular visual deception attends this prospect To the traveller, who has so lately quitted the level of the sea at Cork, and imperceptibly gained an unsuspected elevation, the flats about Fermoy appear vastly lower than those he has just left behind. He finds it difficult to conceive even an equality of horizontal level, and feels prepared to pronounce a decided opinion upon the much greater depression of the northern vale. A little reflection, however, convinces him, that the contrary is the true fact,

    and

    Internet Archive statisticalsurv11socigoog, Chapter 204

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere around here is one of the mountains called Coran Tierna. It rises almost perpendicularly to a pointed top, from a deep swamp on the north side of Fermoy, and it is a very striking object. When you pass under it, it appears a lofty mountain, incapable of useful produce on a summit so exalted, which is probably the real case. Yet it is greatly exceeded in height by the lands about Watergrass-hill, which in fact possess a soil of no bad quality, capable of producing every grain but wheat. These are part of a very extended range, on which the cold has much less injurious effect than on the more exposed nakedness of pointed hills. The view from these high lands is very grand, comprehending a great reach of low and fertile country enclosed by mountains of irregular form and unequal altitude. A singular visual deception attends this prospect. To the traveller who has so lately quitted the level of the sea at Cork and imperceptibly gained an unsuspected elevation, the flats about Fermoy appear vastly lower than those he has just left behind. He finds it difficult to conceive even an equality of horizontal level, and feels prepared to pronounce a decided opinion upon the much greater depression of the northern vale. A little reflection, however, convinces him that the contrary is the true fact.

13. Dawstown and its celebrated lime tree

    Dawstown · townland · Cork · 1710–1810

    Dawstown, about two miles north-west of Blarney, was long occupied by the Daw family and noted for the size and beauty of its timber. Its most remarkable tree was a lime brought from Riverstown by Dean Davis about a century earlier, which grew into the largest and most beautiful tree the author had ever seen.

    Read the passage

    consequence of a good deal of plantation, an elevated situation hj by ik> mean* unfriendly. A little betafcr the house are some borse«chesnt!t* of uhcrtnoion size, and which in another place would be greatly admired. Here, however, they are regarded with very inferior interest, from comparison with a neigh* bouring tree, which for beauty and magnitude has few rivals in any country. It is a species of lime, and the age, from some particular circumstances, is pretty exactly ascertained. About a hundred years ago, Dean Davis, one of the ancestors of the present possessor, brought it from Riverstown. It had been imported with many other young trees, and was so poor and puny in appearance, as to be thought hardly worth planting. He placed it nearly in front of the house, at the distance of sixty or eighty yards, and, it m^y be presumed, took particular care of its infant growth. The shape is nearly that of a sugar-loaf, but more flattened at the top, and the size so great, that at a little distance it looks like a large clump. Though the stem is of considerable height, the branches hang in such a manner, that the tops of the lowest tier touch the ground on all sides. Not having seen it for some years, I do not recollect the precise measure, of its girth, or the amount of ground covered by

    the

    Internet Archive statisticalsurv11socigoog, Chapter 242

14. Derk cove, once a smuggling haunt

    near Galley Head · promontory · Cork

    A small cove called Derk on the east side of Galley Head was once famous for the smuggling trade. Its convenient situation made it suitable for shipping the fine building stone from nearby quarries.

    Read the passage

    Oq many parts of tiie south coast, and particularly in the promontory of the Galleyhead, are several quarries of the finest building stone imagina- . ble. They are a species of slaty argillite, soft enough to bear the hammer, though of a texture sufficiently firm for long duration. Their situation' in the quarry is very compact, yet they are easily separable by means of their joints, which, though very close, do not adhere to each other. They lie in regular blocks of a flag-like shape, and may be raised to any size of length or depth* The fronts or faces are regularly squared, and almost as smooth as polished marble. Lord Carbery's house is built frith stone of this description, and exhibits the handsomest walls of patural stone to be any where found. In a situation of more convenience they seem worthy to become an article of traffic; at least, they might be profitably employed for ballasting. In vjgmtoer it would not be difficult to ship them from the east side of the Galley-head in a little cove, called Derk, once famous for the smuggling trade. The regularity of their shape renders them a* manageable as brick, and their polish is much superior to that of any cut stone.

    Some appearance of coal on Jthe land of Do- Houghmore induced its proprietor, the late Hugh Smith Barry, Esq. to direct a search. An experiment

    Internet Archive statisticalsurv11socigoog, Chapter 87

15. Fermoy brewery and 'Fermoy ale'

    Fermoy · townland · Cork

    An extensive beer and porter brewery was built at Fermoy by the proprietor and later sold to a company. An English brewing gentleman produced a new strong beer known as 'Fermoy ale,' though porter remained the preferred drink of the masses.

    Read the passage

    . " But the necessary supply of the army, and that of the surrounding country, are not the only sources, on which Fermoy depends for its support. In addition to these, such manufactures likewise, as were suited both to its infant state and that of the south of Ireland, have been attempted with success. A very extensive beer and porter brewery was early built by the proprietor, and afterwards disposed of to a company*, who have long conquered all their difficulties, and are daily meeting with such abundant encouragement as to oblige them, from time to time, considerably to enlarge their premises. Their success has been, in part, occasioned by one of the firm, a geutleman eminent in the brewing line, from England, having produced a new species of strong beer, well known

    in this part of Ireland under the denomination of

    Internet Archive statisticalsurv11socigoog, Chapter 169

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere around here, Fermoy drew its support from more than the army and the surrounding country. Manufactures suited to its infant state and that of the south of Ireland were attempted with success. A very extensive beer and porter brewery was early built by the proprietor, and afterwards disposed of to a company. They conquered all their difficulties and were daily meeting with such abundant encouragement that they were obliged, from time to time, to considerably enlarge their premises. Their success was in part occasioned by one of the firm, a gentleman eminent in the brewing line from England, having produced a new species of strong beer. It became well known in this part of Ireland under the denomination of Fermoy ale. Porter, though, remained the preferred drink of the masses.

16. Galway's Warden with quasi-episcopal jurisdiction

    Galway · city · Galway

    The text describes the unique ecclesiastical office of Warden in Galway, noting that this dignitary holds nearly episcopal jurisdiction. The Warden is only subject to higher powers through the triennial visitation of the Archbishop of Tuam.

    Read the passage

    As in the established church, we also have a dignitary in Galway, called a Warden, who has nearly episcopal jurisdiction, and is no farther subject to higher powers, than that he is liable to the triennial visitation of the archbishop of Tuam. Every bishop has a vicar-general of his own appointment, who holds his office only durante btncplacito, and whose jurisdiction ceases on the death of the prelate.

    Every diocese has also a dean, appointed by the cardinal protector, i. e. that cardinal in Rome, who has the peculiar direction of all ecclesiastical matters appertaining to Ireland : and also an archdeacon,

    Internet Archive statisticalsurv11socigoog, Chapter 299

    As the companion tells it

    Coming through Galway now. In the established church here there is a dignitary called a Warden, who holds nearly episcopal jurisdiction. He is subject to higher powers only in this: he is liable to the triennial visitation of the Archbishop of Tuam. The text goes on to note that every bishop has a vicar-general of his own appointment, holding office only during the bishop's pleasure, with jurisdiction ceasing on the prelate's death. Every diocese also has a dean, appointed by the cardinal protector in Rome who directs all ecclesiastical matters for Ireland, and an archdeacon.

17. Great gale of December 1796 at Courtmacsherry

    Courtmacsherry · town · Cork · 1796

    In the memorable gale of December 1796, vast heaps of a smooth-shelled cockle species were driven on shore at Courtmacsherry in a naked state, deprived of their shell covering by the uncommon fury of the tempest. These cockles normally lived in deeper water and were seldom found except when thrown in by storms.

    Read the passage

    the sandy, the other the muddy parts of the strand. At Courtraasherry, famous for those of large size, there is a second sort of cockle, with a smooth shell, which lives in deeper water, and is seldom found but when thrown in by storms. In the memorable gale of December, 1796, vast heaps of these were driven on shore in a naked state, deprived of their shelly covering by the uncommon fury of the tempest.

    CHAP,

    Internet Archive statisticalsurv11socigoog, Chapter 120

    As the companion tells it

    The road is bringing you through Courtmacsherry, in Cork. In December 1796, a memorable gale drove vast heaps of cockles on shore here, stripped of their shells. They were a smooth-shelled kind that lived in deeper water and were seldom found except when storms threw them in. The fury of that tempest left them in a naked state, deprived of their shelly covering, piled along the strand.

18. Introduction of the Scotch swing plough near Cork

    Cork · city · Cork

    The Scotch swing plough was being adopted in the neighbourhood of Cork, replacing the older, more awkward plough. The newer implement was better suited to lands of good quality, leaving the older plough for rough and strong tracts.

    Read the passage

    fore performed, partly by the heel of the plough, and partly by the foot of the man, who is obliged to assist the operation by frequent kicks. Though they remove but little earth at a time, uo part but the sock entering the soil, the draught is rendered difficult by the length of the chain. In ploughing old ground, an additional man is often required to keep the plough in the ground by leaning on the beam, as well as to free it from the weeds and briars, that collect upon it. , Its greatest defect is ploughing lea, its best operation sowing seed. In very stony and rugged soils, which are frequent in the west of the county, it is less objectionable, as it scams peculiarly suited for encountering such difficulties; but lands of better description are deserve ing of a better implement. The introduction of the Scotch swing plough, now very much used in the neighbourhood of Cork and some other places, will probably soon supplant this old and aukward instrument, or confine its use to those rough and strong tracts, which, though not incapable of useful pro-, duce, do not easily admit of neat and elegant culti* vation.

    Obvious as the advantage of the plough must appear to the most superficial observer, the labour of the spade, partly from custom and partly from necessity, is generally preferred. The .lands of this

    Internet Archive statisticalsurv11socigoog, Chapter 61

    As the companion tells it

    As you come through Cork, this is where a change in farming was taking hold. The old plough used here worked partly by its heel and partly by the foot of the man working it, who had to assist the operation by frequent kicks. It removed little earth at a time, only the sock entering the soil, and the draught was made difficult by the length of the chain. In ploughing old ground, an extra man was often needed to keep the plough in the ground by leaning on the beam, and to free it from weeds and briars that collected on it. Its greatest defect was ploughing lea. Its best operation was sowing seed. In very stony and rugged soils, frequent in the west of the county, it was less objectionable, suited for encountering such difficulties. But lands of better description deserved a better implement. The Scotch swing plough, now very much used in the neighbourhood of Cork and some other places, will probably soon supplant this old and awkward instrument, or confine its use to those rough and strong tracts which, though not incapable of useful produce, do not easily admit of neat and elegant cultivation.

19. Kinalmeaky barony's wild past of wolves and robbers

    Kinalmeaky · barony · Cork · 1600–1625

    As late as the beginning of the seventeenth century, the barony of Kinalmeaky was a mere wild, overgrown with woods and bogs, affording shelter and security only to wolves and robbers. Though generally reclaimed and containing many inhabitants, many parts still retained traces of their wild and woodland state.

    Read the passage

    KINALMtfAKY, a small barony, once forming a pact of Carbery, which it joins on the north-east quarter, contains 5V parishes, 62 plowlands, and 19273 acres plantation measure. So late as the beginning of the seventeenth century, it was a mere wild, overgrown and encumbered with woods and bogs, affording shelter and security only to wolves and robbers. Though, like the rest of the country, pretty generally reclaimed, and containing a great number of inhabitants, many parts are still coarse and rugged, and retain traces of their wild and woodland state. The hilly parts, which constitute the far greater proportion, are for the most part poor, shallow, and stony. Some of those near Bandon on the north side, the Duke of Devonshire's

    3*0 STATISTICAL $tJRV£¥

    Internet Archive statisticalsurv11socigoog, Chapter 121

20. Kinsale ferry crossing

    Kinsale · town · Cork

    The barony of Courcy communicated with Kinsale, its market-town, by means of a ferry across the river, sometimes dangerous when wind blew violently but generally safe due to its land-locked situation. The boat carried a crowded and miscellaneous cargo of livestock, produce, and passengers.

    Read the passage

    of Barryroe. The higher parts are in general very unproductive, being covered with a light and shallow surface of poor argillaceous earth, or clay mixed with slaty rubble. Their natural produce is a dwarfish kind of heath and low creeping furze, * commonly called Irish, to distinguish it from the more vigorous plant, known by the name of French furze, t The amount of exported produce, consisting of potatoes, wheat, and barley, is nevertheless very considerable. The communication of this barony with Kinsale, the market-town, is by means of a ferry, sometimes dangerous, when the wind blows violently down the river, but generally safe from its land-locked situation. A second boat of smaller size plies for the purpose of conveying passengers, when the weather is too tempestuous for the large one. In this latter, horses, cattle, and goods of various kinds are conveyed, particularly on marketdays, when it often exhibits a very crowded and miscellaneous cargo. Cows, sheep, pigs, poultry, potatoes, and corn, with their several owners, promiscuously jumbled together, encumber the boat so much, as to raise in the unaccustomed spectator a

    very

    Internet Archive statisticalsurv11socigoog, Chapter 127

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Kinsale in Cork, you are near an old ferry crossing that linked the barony of Courcy to its market-town. The ferry was sometimes dangerous when the wind blew violently down the river, but generally safe, thanks to its land-locked situation. A second boat of smaller size plied for the purpose of conveying passengers when the weather was too tempestuous for the large one. In the larger boat, horses, cattle, and goods of various kinds were conveyed, particularly on market days, when it often exhibited a very crowded and miscellaneous cargo. Cows, sheep, pigs, poultry, potatoes, and corn, with their several owners, were promiscuously jumbled together. They encumbered the boat so much as to raise in the unaccustomed spectator a very striking scene of confusion and risk. This was the ordinary traffic of the crossing, the everyday business of bringing the barony's produce to market in Kinsale, whatever the weather and however crowded the deck.

21. Mitchelstown: from wretched village to town

    Mitchelstown · townland · Cork

    Mitchelstown was a very wretched village before the late Lord Kingston improved and enlarged it into a handsome and populous town. Despite appearances, the suburbs and back lanes were full of very indigent inhabitants.

    Read the passage

    Mitehelstown, a very wretched village* before the tine of the late Lord Kingston, by whom it was greatly improved and enlarged, is now a handsome and populous town. Like most other towns, die apparent is belter than die real condition, as the suburbs and back lanes are full of very indigent inhabitants* Every thing however has been done by it* preset* possessor, the Dowager Lady Kingston, which the happy wisdom of charity and affluence cmU -suggest, to enlighten the minds of the rising generation, and ameliorate the conditio* of the people. Her Ladyriip'e liberal and mantficeot eicpen- 4rt«res are, as follows. An Orphan school, where twelve girls are lodged, dieted, and taught every kind of work, together with reading, writing, and arithmetic. They make their own cioatbs, spin flax and wool, knit stockings, work muslin, and keep the bouse clean. The mistsess, who resides hi the house, instructs them carefully in the principles of the christian religion. They also sing psalms on Sunflays in place of the parish clerk incapacitated by age from performing this part of his duty. The church, a new, elegant, and expensive building, owes every thing to her ladjship's bounty, except a parish rate of twenty pounds, and a sum of four

    huudred

    Internet Archive statisticalsurv11socigoog, Chapter 184

22. Mount Gabriel lake depth legend disproved

    near Mount Gabriel · hill or hills · Cork

    A small lake on Mount Gabriel was long reputed to be unfathomable, having been tested with a hundred-fathom line. The Rev. Philip French, resident at Schull, doubted the claim and personally measured the lake, finding its greatest depth to be only a few feet.

    Read the passage

    On the south-west part of the island, and in an elevated situation, is a pretty large lake, said to possess in a very eminent degree the quality of cleansing, in a short time, any vessel, however dirty, immersed in it. Smith says, that some of it, being transmitted to Dublin for examination, was found to contain a small quantity of natron. That it may possess the quality ascribed to it in some degree, is not improbable, but popular rumours of this nature are not always to be depended on. A small lake on Mount Gabriel was long said to be unfathomable, and the same author informs us, that it had been tried by a line of a hundred fathoms. The Rev. Philip French, some years resident at Skull, near the mountain, very reasonably doubting of the fact, had the curiosity to examine it himself, and found tbat the greatest depth did not exceed many feet.

    Like most parts of the south coast, this island abounds with excellent but useless quarries of building stone, and fine dark-coloured 8ags. These are sometimes taken to Cork as ballast, and sold there.

    Internet Archive statisticalsurv11socigoog, Chapter 104

    As the companion tells it

    As the road passes near Mount Gabriel in Cork, there's a small lake on the mountain that people long said was unfathomable. Smith recorded that it had been tried with a line of a hundred fathoms. The Reverend Philip French, who lived for some years at Schull near the mountain, very reasonably doubted the claim. He went and examined it himself, and found that the greatest depth did not exceed a few feet. The story of an unfathomable lake on Mount Gabriel was disproved by a man who went and looked. The same survey mentions a large lake on the south-west part of an island, said to clean any vessel immersed in it. Water from it was sent to Dublin and found to contain a small quantity of natron. The author notes that popular reports of this nature are not always to be depended on.

23. Poor villages of Kildorrery, Glanworth and Castletown-Roche

    Kildorrery · town · Cork

    The principal villages of the district — Kildorrery, Glanworth, and Castletown-Roche — are described as poor places that disappoint the observer given the fineness of the surrounding country. The remark highlights the contrast between the natural richness of the landscape and the poverty of its settlements.

    Read the passage

    The other villages of the district, the principal of which are Kildorrery, Glan worth, and, Castletown-roche, afford nothing to the observer but the regret of seeing such poor places in so fine a country. The objects worth notice at Glan worth, are a new and very handsome glebe-house, with appropriate embellishments, built by the Rev. Dr. Woodward, and highly honourable to his taste and liberality, and the ruins of a very magnificent castle. This great building, proudly stationed upon some bold rocks, the steep foot of which is washed by the Funcheon, is said to have belonged to the Roches^ once possessed of great power and influence in this cpuntry. Indeed, the far greater number of castles, very numerous in this district, attest the opulence of their founders, and prove that the country, how- Over unsettled in its general state, must have enjoyed many intervals of repose, as well as a considerable degree of wealthy population* With every allowance for the facility afforded by cheapness of

    labour,

    Internet Archive statisticalsurv11socigoog, Chapter 180

24. Rev. William Hodnet corrects plough story at Reen

    Reen · townland · Cork · 1795–1810

    The Rev. William Hodnet, rector resident at Reen, contradicted Weld's tale, confirming that plough use was increasing in the district, with eight ploughs now where only three existed twelve or fifteen years earlier. The rugged, mountainous terrain explained the plough's infrequent use.

    Read the passage

    was reported to have raised, added not a little to the incredibility of the tale. There are in this county many rugged tracts, where ploughs are little used, none, to which they are actually un« known. The poorest tiller of the rudest soil must have often seen, though he may have never used one. The custom of migrating to the eastern parts of the county, every year for work, is sufficient to make the implement familiar to their sight, even supposing it a stranger to their hands. But I have b^ttrtr authority for contradicting the report made by the member of the Royal Irish Academy. The very gentleman, whose authority was relied on for information, the Rev. William Hod net, resident at Reen, and rector of the parish, assures me that the use of this implement is increasing, and that there are now eight ploughs, where, twelve or fifteen years ago, there were but three. The infrequency of its use in a district so rude, mountainous, and stony, can, indeed, be no great wonder, and may be accounted for on principles more consonant with truth, and more accordant to common sense.

    Among the curiosities of this district I should have noticed the discovery of some ancient silver coins, by some labourers employed in levelling an inclosure at Castlefreke. They were wrapped in g, small bag, probably of leather, whic^i mouldered 2 p into

    Internet Archive statisticalsurv11socigoog, Chapter 97

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere close to Reen, a story was set straight about ploughs in this part of Cork. A member of the Royal Irish Academy had told a tale that strained belief, raising doubts about whether ploughs were known here at all. The author of the survey disagreed. There are many rugged tracts in this county where ploughs are little used, but none where they are actually unknown. The poorest tiller of the rudest soil must have often seen one, even if he never used one. The custom of migrating every year to the eastern parts of the county for work is enough to make the implement familiar to their sight. The author had better authority for contradicting the report. The very gentleman whose authority had been relied on for the original information, the Reverend William Hodnet, resident at Reen and rector of the parish, assured the author that the use of the plough was increasing. He said there are now eight ploughs where, twelve or fifteen years ago, there were but three. The infrequency of its use in a district so rude, mountainous, and stony is no great wonder. Among the curiosities of this district, the author noted the discovery of some ancient silver coins by labourers employed in levelling an enclosure at Castlefreke. They were wrapped in a small bag, probably of leather, which had mouldered.

25. Wrixon estate improvements and modern farming near Ballygiblin

    Ballygiblin · townland · Cork

    Mr. Wrixon's estate near Ballygiblin saw significant landscape improvements including neat culture and varied plantation on formerly open and undressed grounds. He adopted modern farming methods—drill potatoes, turnips, rape, Leicester sheep breeding, and extensive use of lime—departing from the old grazing system. Culm deposits were found on part of his estate about a mile and a half south of Ballygiblin.

    Read the passage

    been happily employed. Nature, indeed, bad lavish* ed her gifts with no common liberality, but art bad contributed little to their embellishment before that period. The grounds beautiful in form, and of admirable fertility, were open and undressed, the plantation consisting only of some hedgerow ash. In some places too, they were disfigured by naked and ill-placed walls. The alteration, produced by neat culture and a judicious extent of varied plantation, rapidly brought forward by the richness of the soil, may be easily conceived. The situation of the house was fortunately well chosen. , It looks to the south, the best aspect for this climate, and, besides some of the handsomest grounds of the demesne, commands a fine view of Lobort-castle, tow* ering over a surrounding grove, at a distance from which Mount Hilary raises his majestic head. Mr. Wrixon has also adopted a style of farming very different from the old and unskilful mode, that formerly prevailed, when little more than the grazing system was known or practised. He cultivates potatoes in the drill method, and occasionally raises turnips and rape for winter and spring feeding. Part of his land is admirably adapted to sheep, of which he has a fine flock, bred by himself. They are of the Leicester kind, now common in many parts of the county, and a great improvement on the old and longlegged

    430 STATISTICAL SURVEY

    Internet Archive statisticalsurv11socigoog, Chapter 148

26. Mallow Canal to Duhallow Collieries

    Mallow · town · Cork

    A canal was commenced near Mallow many years prior, funded by an £11,000 parliamentary grant, professedly to link the town with the Duhallow collieries. The project failed badly due to the ignorance and selfishness of its constructors, leaving much labour lost.

    Read the passage

    CANALS at present cannot be so properly called a subject of enquiry, as of speculation. Some haut been talked o£ none executed, and one only begun. The commencement of this important kind of inland intercourse took place in the neighbourhood of Mallow, a good many years since, under what auspices I know not, but with a result not very creditable to the undertakers. Jt appears from parliamentary record, that die sum of eleven thousand pounds was granted for this purpose; I believe there is no record, to which we can refer for an account of the money expended. The professed object was, I pre*- 6ume, a communication between Mallow and the Duhallow collieries; the real one, perhaps, had more relation to private than to public emolument. What was the full object of the plan, or whether it was intended to go further, it seems now useless to inquire,

    24 ADDENDA.

    Internet Archive statisticalsurv11socigoog, Chapter 272

27. Riverstown demesne and Bishop Browne

    Riverstown · townland · Cork

    Riverstown, the seat of Jemmet Browne near Glanmire, was the favourite residence of the bishop of that name for many years. The bishop is credited with entirely establishing its present form and beauty.

    Read the passage

    On the north side of Glanmire is Glyntown, a very handsome seat, built by the late Samuel M'Call, Esq. whose death deprived the neighbourhood of a most valuable inhabitant. At the northern extremity of this beautiful vicinage is Riverstown,' the seat of Jemmet Browne, Esq. very inferior in point of prospect from its more retired situation, but, as a demesne, superior, perhaps, to any that have been named, .for the regularity of die incisures, and the size and quantity of its timber. It was for a great number of yedrs the favourite residence of the bishop of that name, to whom its present form and beauty are entirely due.

    Among the distinguished improvements of individuals in this district, those of Edmond Roche, Esq. of Kildinin, deserve particular mention, as well for the size of die scale, on which they have been executed, as for the judgment and perseverance, that - brought them to a successful termination. The accomplishment of this great undertaking displays a most encouraging example to enterprizing agriculturists, and shews how much may be performed by

    Internet Archive statisticalsurv11socigoog, Chapter 211

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere close to Riverstown is the demesne that bears its name, the seat of Jemmet Browne. It sits at the northern end of the country around Glanmire, in a more retired position than Glyntown, the handsome seat built by the late Samuel M'Call on the north side of Glanmire, whose death deprived the neighbourhood of a most valuable inhabitant. Riverstown's prospect may be inferior for its seclusion, but as a demesne it is perhaps superior to any that have been named, for the regularity of its enclosures and the size and quantity of its timber. For a great number of years it was the favourite residence of the bishop of that name, to whom its present form and beauty are entirely due. Nearby, the distinguished improvements of Edmond Roche of Kildinin deserve particular mention, both for the scale on which they were executed and for the judgment and perseverance that brought them to a successful termination. This great undertaking displays an encouraging example to enterprising agriculturists, and shows how much may be performed.

28. Fortifications of Cork Harbour

    near Great Island · townland · Cork

    Cork Harbour is defended by the forts of Camden and Carlisle on its steep southern entrance, and by recently erected strong works on Spike and Haulbowline islands. Haulbowline also houses the dock-yard and naval stores.

    Read the passage

    ment. The island, on which it stands, forms the north side of the harbour of Cork, and is of great extent, and for the most part fertile. On the east and -west sides of the island the communication is by ferries, on the north side1 by a bridge, the insulating channel being there inconsiderable. The harbour of Cove, long celebrated as a station of great extent and complete security from storms, has now the additional advantage of strong protection from assault. It is approached by a deep and narrow entrance from the south, on either side of which the hills rise with steep and sudden ascent. On these stand the forts of Camten and Carlisle, provided with formidable batteries. Within the harbour are the islands of Spike and Hawlbowlin, on which reify strong works have been lately erected. In the latter, which is the larger of the two, are the dock-yard and naval stores.

    The Great island, as may be supposed from its situation, is very populous. It possesses peculiar advantages of navigable communication for the disposal of its produce and the supply of its wants. It contains some fine seats, one of which, belonging to Richard Frankland, Esq. is new, the house built in the. best modern style, the grounds highly improved, and the plantations judiciously arranged. The principal old seats are those of Belgrove, Marino, and Foaty,

    Internet Archive statisticalsurv11socigoog, Chapter 211

29. Allman's cotton mills near Bandon

    Bandon · town · Cork

    Cotton mills were erected near Bandon, one belonging to Mr. Allman, described as hardly inferior to the best English construction in extent of works and elegance of machinery. This represents early industrial enterprise in the county.

    Read the passage

    is very favourable to the supply of the city, as well as very conducive to the convenience of the farmer by affording him a near and ready market for his grain. The great number of mills has certainly lessened the profits of the miller's trade, but it shews an fncrease of wealth, and a spirit of expenditure^ ready to embrace any occasion, which promises * reasonable reward to industrious speculation. Cotton mills have also been erected, one of which near Bandon, the property of Mr. Allman, is hardly inferior to those of the best English construction, in the extent of the works, and the elegance of :the machinery.

    The inequality of our grounds, and the number of our streams, offer other advantages, as yet t to generally neglected. The benefit of irigation, though not unknown, is not, however, much attended to, nor, as an art, sufficiently understood. Numberless streams, now suffered to flow uninterrupted in their descent, from their source to their exit, might in many places be diverted from their course, to the great emolument of the husbandman, to whom they present an opportunity of raising great crops of hay at no other expence, than that of cutting a small channel. This species of improvement, which may now be said to be commencing, will probably at no distant period cow* into general use, and. our posterity will regard wi"i

    Internet Archive statisticalsurv11socigoog, Chapter 12

30. Baltic trade disruption hits Clonakilty workers

    Clonakilty · town · Cork

    The discontinuance of the Baltic trade suspended projected building improvements in Clonakilty, causing great disappointment to undertakers and serious injury to tradesmen and poor labourers. Some new houses and public works had fortunately been completed before the disruption.

    Read the passage

    peace, and a court of record for the recovery of debts under «£20. The charter was granted by James I. to Sir Henry Boyle, lord of the borough, by whom and his successors the sovereign is nominated, the burgesses annually electing three of their number, from which the lord of the borough selects one. The liberties extend one mile round in all directions. Before the union it returned two members to parliament, and would probably have retained its privilege, had the test of qualification been determined by the number of inhabitants. The town, and an extensive estate surrounding it, are now the property of the Earl of Shannon, under whose auspices, as well as the encouragements aet forward by the late earl, it is likely to become a flourishing place. By the present discontinuance of the Baltic trade many projected improvements in the building Hoe have been suspended, to the great disappointment of the undertakers, as well as the very serious injury of the tradesmen and poor labourers. Fortunately, however, before this took place, several new houses and some works of public utility and importance were accomplished. A porter brewery, the plan of which is remarkable for compact and convenient arrangement, and upon a scale of considerable magnitude, was built by

    Rickard

    Internet Archive statisticalsurv11socigoog, Chapter 110

    As the companion tells it

    As you come through Clonakilty in Cork, this is a town that once returned two members to parliament before the union. Its charter was granted by James the First to Sir Henry Boyle, lord of the borough. The town and an extensive estate surrounding it are now the property of the Earl of Shannon, under whose auspices, and with the encouragements set forward by the late earl, it is likely to become a flourishing place. But the discontinuance of the Baltic trade has hit hard. Many projected improvements in the building line have been suspended, to the great disappointment of the undertakers, as well as the very serious injury of the tradesmen and poor labourers. Fortunately, before this took place, several new houses and some works of public utility and importance were accomplished. A porter brewery was built by Rickard, remarkable for its compact and convenient arrangement, and on a scale of considerable magnitude.

31. Canal obstruction near Fermoy by local landholders

    Fermoy · townland · Cork

    A canal project intended to improve trade and water-carriage for Fermoy was blocked by an interdict from two local landholders. The author criticizes this as an act against the public interest and the landholders' own long-term economic benefit.

    Read the passage

    " The interdict, mentioned above to have been laid on the canal, proceeded (and strange it is to say so) from two landholders in the vicinity of Fermoy. Now, instead of raising obstacles to the prosperity of that town, the gentlemen in its neighbourhood have every reason in the world to co-operate in every measure tending to that effect. If they have not public spirit enough to do this, at least their own interest ought to teach them a different line of conduct from that* whigh they sometimes observe. By the exertions of a single individual, a market has been brought to their very doors, which is rapid-

    504 STATISTICAL SURVEY

    Internet Archive statisticalsurv11socigoog, Chapter 174

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere close to Fermoy, a canal was planned to improve trade and water-carriage for the town. But two landholders in the vicinity laid an interdict on it, blocking the project. The author of the survey calls this strange, and says the gentlemen living near Fermoy had every reason to co-operate in measures tending to the prosperity of the place. If they had not public spirit enough to do that, their own interest ought to have taught them a different line of conduct. He notes that by the exertions of a single individual, a market had been brought to their very doors, which was rapidly advancing.

32. Coolum cliff, former eyrie of the eagle

    Coolum · townland · Waterford

    On Dr. Synge's estate near the Seven Heads stands a cliff called Coolum with a perpendicular height of at least 300 feet. Once the dwelling of the eagle, it is now occupied by the falcon, and local natives climb such precipices with astonishing indifference to danger.

    Read the passage

    To the adaurer of nature's more wild and eccentric productions the interior parts of this district present nothing remarkable. In tracing die rocky outline of its coast, however, he will meet with abundant matter for wouder and contemplation. The height and boldness of its cliffs, the number of its cores and indentures, and the surprising variety of its rocky forms, furnish inexhaustible subjects of awful entertainment. On Dr. Synge's estate near the Seven heads is a cli»% called Coolum, the perpendicular height of which cannot be less than three hundred feet. This, once the dwelling of the eagle, is now in possession of the falcon, whose formidable courage allows no bird to approach his favourite residence. The indifference, with which die natives climb several of these precipices, is little less astonishing than the precipice itself. Places apparently inaccessible, and which a stranger cannot even behold without terror, present to their habitual exercises neither danger nor difficulty. Scenes of this kind, however, are not peculiar to this district, die whole extent of our rocky coast preseating similar wildness and equal intrepidity.

    Among the more remarkable artificial curiosities is one of a singular nature, lately discovered in a bog near Castiefreke. Of tins Lord Carbery was kind enough to furnish roc with an account, which

    Internet Archive statisticalsurv11socigoog, Chapter 88

33. Danes walled Cork in the ninth century

    Cork · city · Cork · 800–899

    The Danes are said to have settled in Cork, if not founded it, during the ninth century, and surrounded it with a wall. The author notes that no particular account of its ancient state has been transmitted.

    Read the passage

    tar was known at a much earlier period than the reign of Henry the second, our religious structures sufficiently evince, and what was done from pious, might certainly be performed from other motives. Cork, in which the Danes are said to have settled (if they did not found it) in the ninth century, was by them surrounded by a wall. They, who could build vyell for security, would probably do so for comfort. No particular account of its ancient state has been transmitted to us. The description of a city so considerable as to be the capital of a kingdom, on the arrival of the English, might reasonably have been

    expected,

    Internet Archive statisticalsurv11socigoog, Chapter 49

    As the companion tells it

    Coming through Cork now. The Danes are said to have settled here in the ninth century, if they did not found the place altogether, and they surrounded it with a wall. The reasoning the author gives is simple enough: people who could build well for security would probably do so for comfort as well. But no particular account of the city's ancient state has been transmitted. The author notes that a description of a city considerable enough to be the capital of a kingdom, on the arrival of the English, might reasonably have been expected.

34. Glanworth Castle ruins on the Funcheon

    Glanworth · town · Cork

    The ruins of a very magnificent castle stand on bold rocks above the Funcheon river at Glanworth, said to have belonged to the Roches, once a powerful family in the region. The author notes that the many castles in the district attest the opulence of their founders and periods of tranquillity.

    Read the passage

    The other villages of the district, the principal of which are Kildorrery, Glan worth, and, Castletown-roche, afford nothing to the observer but the regret of seeing such poor places in so fine a country. The objects worth notice at Glan worth, are a new and very handsome glebe-house, with appropriate embellishments, built by the Rev. Dr. Woodward, and highly honourable to his taste and liberality, and the ruins of a very magnificent castle. This great building, proudly stationed upon some bold rocks, the steep foot of which is washed by the Funcheon, is said to have belonged to the Roches^ once possessed of great power and influence in this cpuntry. Indeed, the far greater number of castles, very numerous in this district, attest the opulence of their founders, and prove that the country, how- Over unsettled in its general state, must have enjoyed many intervals of repose, as well as a considerable degree of wealthy population* With every allowance for the facility afforded by cheapness of

    labour,

    Internet Archive statisticalsurv11socigoog, Chapter 180

35. Landscape beauty of Glanmire

    near Glanmire · town · Cork

    The village of Glanmire, located four miles from Cork at the head of a small inlet, is noted for the uncommon beauty of its surrounding country, romantic glens, and profusion of beautiful woods.

    Read the passage

    The village of Glanmire, four miles from Cork, at the head of a small inlet on the north side of the river, is chie6y memorable for the uncommon beauty of the surrounding country. It is. watered by a pretty rive^ th^t winds through several romantic glens, the hills on etch side of which axe adorned, with an uncommon profusion of beautiful woods. The advantages of such a siti^ation havp . not been overlooked, this neighbourhood exhibiting a rich variety of seats, many of which are modern, and every day receiving some accession to thfir numbers. Among many that deserve mentipn, it will suffice to specify some of the mo^t remarkable. t Lota,* situate on the west side of, the inle^, and

    commanding

    Internet Archive statisticalsurv11socigoog, Chapter 211

    As the companion tells it

    Up ahead is Glanmire, the road passing through a village four miles from Cork, sitting at the head of a small inlet on the north side of the river. It is chiefly memorable for the uncommon beauty of the surrounding country. A pretty river winds through several romantic glens, and the hills on each side are adorned with an uncommon profusion of beautiful woods. The advantages of such a situation have not been overlooked. The neighbourhood exhibits a rich variety of seats, many of them modern, and every day receiving some addition to their numbers. Among many that deserve mention, Lota stands out, situated on the west side of the inlet and commanding a fine position.

36. Limestone quarries among mountains west of Newmarket

    Newmarket · town · Cork

    Two limestone quarries found among the mountains west of Newmarket are described as a singular and fortunate occurrence, providing material to fertilize the neighbouring moors. The surrounding western barony consists of high moorland and mountain, generally capable of improvement but hindered by lack of good roads for transporting limestone and fuel.

    Read the passage

    In the other calcareous districts, the limestone tracts are for the most part continuous and unmixed, preserving a pretty regular breadth for the distances, to which they extend. Here limestone and argillite are more irregularly mingled ; and, what is also uncommon, limestone is sometimes found in eminences, and brown stone in hollows. The more . lofty ranges of land, however, according to the rule .nature has generally observed in this quarter, contain no limestone, with the exception of two quarries found among the mountains, west of Newmarket, a circumstance of very fortunate as well as singular occurrence, from the opportunity they afford of fertilizing the neighbouring moors.

    The western part of this barony consists of high moorland and mountain, all of which, except, perhaps, the more lofty pans of the latter, seems very capable of improvement. It is much less stony and rugged than the southern hills, the subjacent rock, which is generally a dark brown argillite, seldom approaching the surface. In some places deep turfbog is found, but the more usual soil is a shallow turf resting upon a stiff heavy wet clay. One of the greatest obstructions to its improvement at present is the want of good roads for the carriage of limestone, and occasionally of fuel.

    Internet Archive statisticalsurv11socigoog, Chapter 137

37. Luxury and want contrast in Cork

    Cork · city · Cork

    Cork exhibited a stark contrast between luxury and poverty, with middle classes frugal, the lowest classes very indigent, and the highest often profuse. Parade and profusion were considered injurious to the city's mercantile interests.

    Read the passage

    late, partly in consequence of filling up the old docks, and partly from the number of new and handsome houses. As, however, every one builds according to his fancy, without regard to methodical arrangement, the city wants that uniformity of structure, which contributes so much to the beauty of other great towns. With respect to modes of living, the fault imputable to many cities is too observable in this; luxury and want exhibit a melancholy and nrtortifying contrast. The middle classes are frugal enough, the lowest very indigent, the highest often profuse. In a town of gay and fashionable resort, parade and profusion fcfc-m an expected, if not a commendable part of its character. To a commercial city, like Cork, they are altogether inappropriate, and have been considered, I believe with great justice, as injurious to it* mercantile interests, and the frequent causes of bankruptcy and distress.

    Among the institutions of later date, and which comes more peculiarly within the scope of the present undertaking, is that, which has lately been incorporated by charter, undei the name of the Cork Institution. Its proposed object is the application of science to purposes of important utility to social life, and under the auspices of its present conductors, and the patronage of a liberal government,

    Internet Archive statisticalsurv11socigoog, Chapter 245

    As the companion tells it

    Cork, as you pass through it, has grown partly by filling in the old docks and partly by the number of new and handsome houses. But everyone builds according to his fancy, without regard to methodical arrangement, so the city wants the uniformity of structure that contributes to the beauty of other great towns. The modes of living show a fault common to many cities. Luxury and want exhibit a melancholy contrast. The middle classes are frugal enough, the lowest very indigent, the highest often profuse. In a town of gay and fashionable resort, parade and profusion form an expected, if not commendable, part of its character. But to a commercial city like Cork, they are altogether inappropriate, and have been considered, with great justice, as injurious to its mercantile interests, and the frequent causes of bankruptcy and distress. Among the institutions of later date is one lately incorporated by charter, under the name of the Cork Institution. Its proposed object is the application of science to purposes of important utility to social life, under the auspices of its present conductors and the patronage of a liberal government.

38. Military station established at Fermoy

    Fermoy · townland · Cork · 1797–1809

    For about twelve years before 1809, Fermoy served as a military station, chosen by government for its central situation in a rich country, proximity to Cork and the eastern coast, and command of the principal pass on the river Blackwater. The constant military presence contributed significantly to the town's rapid rise.

    Read the passage

    " The striking change, that has now taken place, must, in a great measure, be attributed to the village having been converted into a military station for the last twelve years ; for no longer is it ago, since the town began to be built. To this government were induced, from its central situation amidst a rich and plentiful country ; from its proximity to

    Cork

    Internet Archive statisticalsurv11socigoog, Chapter 165

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere around here, Fermoy became a military station about twelve years before 1809. Government chose it for its central position in a rich country and its proximity to Cork. Before that, the town had barely begun to be built. The change since then has been striking, and it must, in great measure, be attributed to the military presence.

39. New barracks for southern Ireland defence

    Fermoy · townland · Cork

    New barracks were being erected across Cork and adjacent counties to maintain a strong military force in the south of Ireland. This buildup was deemed necessary due to French intentions to seize the Iberian Peninsula.

    Read the passage

    barrack, which will afford them employment for several years to come ; oor is the motive, that induces government to this measure, at all difficult to ascertain. Barracks are starting up every where, both in this and the adjacent counties, for the pur* pose of maintaining a strong force in the south of Ireland, now rendered doubly necessary since the French have evinced an intention of seizing on the whole peninsula of Spain and Portugal But, whatever may bd the intentions of government in building it, this second barrack, together with the present one, promise to be of most essential benefit to the town, of which they will form the most striking ornaments, as well as of the whole country round. By securing to the place the profits arising from the expenditure of a considerable portion of the army in peace as well as in war, they will render permanent the advantages derivable from that source; they will afford protection to settlers in troublesome times, and by the resort, thoroughfare, and intercourse they occasion point out the situation as particularly well circumstanced for the residence qf genteel families of moderate fortunes, as well as for future colonists of various inferior descriptions. A continued residence of the army, at any one spot, has scarce ever failed to create a town, though seldom, perhaps, with so rapid a space, as that of Fennoy.

    The

    Internet Archive statisticalsurv11socigoog, Chapter 171

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere around here, new barracks were going up, and the reasons were not hard to see. Barracks were starting up everywhere, both in Cork and the adjacent counties, for the purpose of maintaining a strong force in the south of Ireland. This was rendered doubly necessary since the French had shown an intention of seizing on the whole peninsula of Spain and Portugal. Whatever the government's intentions in building it, this second barrack, together with the present one, promised to be of essential benefit to the town. They would form striking ornaments to the town and the whole country round. By securing the profits arising from the expenditure of a considerable portion of the army, in peace as well as in war, they would render permanent the advantages from that source. They would afford protection to settlers in troublesome times. And by the resort, thoroughfare, and intercourse they occasioned, they pointed out the situation as particularly well circumstanced for the residence of genteel families of moderate fortunes, as well as for future colonists of various inferior descriptions. A continued residence of the army at any one spot has scarce ever failed to create a town, though seldom, perhaps, as rapidly as Fermoy.

40. Passage as harbour communication hub

    Passage West · town · Cork

    The little town of Passage, about four miles from Cork, serves as a centre of communication between the harbour and the city. Vessels too heavy to navigate the upper river are unloaded there, and a ferry connects Cove and the Great Island with Cork.

    Read the passage

    In tbe parish of Monkstown, which is an impropriate rectory, the property of Lords De Vesci, and .Longford, stands the little town of Passage, about four miles distant from Cork. As a centre of communication between the harbour and the city, it is a place of much resort, particularly in time of war. Vessels of too heavy a burthen to navigate the uppet part of the river are here unloaded, and occasionally repaired. The channel, which divides this . parish from the great island, is here extremely contracted, and very deep, probably in consequence of discharging so great a body of. water through so narrow an inlet. A ferry, the only regular one from Cork downwards, opens a communication with Cove and the great island, and finds, of course, continual employment. It is chiefly for passengers, market goods being most usually conveyed to and

    from

    Internet Archive statisticalsurv11socigoog, Chapter 200

41. Wellfield: impoverished estate transformed by Rev. William Stewart

    Wellfield · street · Dublin

    Wellfield, the seat of Rev. William Stewart near Clonakilty, was taken on lease from the Earl of Shannon's estate in a rude and impoverished state with wet waste ground. By draining, dressing, and inclosing, it became a handsome and productive farm.

    Read the passage

    In the neighbourhood of Cloghnikilty are some old, and some new mansions. The chief of the former is in the island of Inchidony, for a long series of years a principal seat of the Hungerford family. Of the latter, the most deserving of notice is WellBeld, the seat of the Rev, William Stewart, a gentleman honourably distinguished in this quarter for spirited and judicious improvement. It stands upon a part of the Earl of Shannon's estate, taken by Mr. Stewart, a few years since, on a lease of three lives. It was then in a rude and impoverished state, with a good deal of wet and waste ground, destitute of trees or proper inclosures. By draining, dressing, and inclosing, it is now a very handsome, as well as productive fcrm, with the ad*

    dition

    Internet Archive statisticalsurv11socigoog, Chapter 114

42. Imokilly: resident gentry and comfortable tenantry

    Imokilly · barony · Cork

    The barony of Imokilly contains many gentlemen's seats, with landed proprietors generally men of large fortune and mostly resident. This resident gentry is credited with maintaining tranquil and orderly conditions, comfortable tenantry, and progressive advancement in industry and manners among the people.

    Read the passage

    It contains a great number of gentlemen's seats* among which are reckoned some of the most distinguished for beauty abd elegant order. There are some small estates, but in general die landed proprietors are men of large fortune. To the happy circumstance of so many among them being resident may be attributed the tranquil and orderly state of the country, the comfortable condition of the tenantry, and the progressive advancement of the people in industry and manners.

    The longitudinal extent from Carlisle fort to the neighbourhood of You glial 1 is about 20 miles, the greatest breadth about 12. In the northern valley are placed Middleton, Castlemartyrf some villages and many seats ; the southern, comprehends Rostellan, Castlemary, Cloyne, Ballymaloe, and the rich lands of Shanagarry.

    Internet Archive statisticalsurv11socigoog, Chapter 215

43. Bandon's manufactures and industries

    Bandon · town · Cork

    Bandon's first and long-flourishing business was the woollen trade. Current manufactures include linen (principally diapers, with yarn purchased at Skibbereen and Clonakilty), woolcombing and camblet trade, blue dyeing, blanket and coarse woollen cloth production, and porter and beer brewing by Messrs. Sealy, Cornwall, and Kent. Tanning is declining due to the extravagant price of bark.

    Read the passage

    The first branch of business established here, and which continued for a Jong time to flourish, was the woollen. The industry of the inhabitants has since been variously dlrfected under the influence of fluctuating demands, and changing fashions. Most articles of shop business may here be' procured on reasonable terms, some of them the manufacture of the place. The inhabitants generally respectable, and frequently opulent, are * remarkable for sober demeanour, and diligent attention to their respective' pursuits. It seems remarkable, that in a town of such consideration, and apparently well situated for tiie purpose, the banking business should never have been undertaken. It is probably ascrib&ble to the prudent character of the people, more inclined to seek moderate profits on secure grounds, than to

    • engage

    Internet Archive statisticalsurv11socigoog, Chapter 123

44. Barony of Kinalea parochial schools and Irish language

    Innishannon · town · Cork

    The barony of Kinalea, containing ten parishes, has only four established parochial schools at Inishannon, Dunderrow, Ballymartle, and Nohaval. Catholic schools exist in each parish but the greater number of the lower orders speak Irish only.

    Read the passage

    In the barony of Kinalea, which contains ten parishes inclusively, with a considerable part of some others, there are but four established parochial schools, viz* Inishannon, Dunderrow, Ballymartle, and Nohaval. There is, generally speaking, a Catholic school in each parish, which, however, have hitherto contributed little to the advancement of useful knowledge, as appears from the state of the English language, rather stationary than progressive among the lower orders, the greater number of whom speak Irish only. In the barony of Kerricurrjhy, approaching so much nearer the city

    of

    Internet Archive statisticalsurv11socigoog, Chapter 196

45. Barryroe population undercount due to tax and militia fears

    Barryroe · townland · Cork

    The population of East and West Barryroe was estimated at over 18,000 inhabitants, but the actual number is believed to exceed the computation. Inhabitants deliberately under-reported their numbers out of fear that accurate returns would make them more liable to tax duty and militia service.

    Read the passage

    The population of this barony, in which there is nothing deserving the name of a town, is very considerable. The country in general is full of scattered houses, and in some of the more fertile parts, the roads have the appearance of irregular. streets. According to Smith, it contains 52,905 English acres, and 146 plowlands. A late survey, which is deemed accurate, reduced the plowlands to 144, and the acres to 31,591. The population of East Barryroe is estimated at 10159 inhabitants, and 1 69$ houses; that of West, at 8,639 inhabitants, and 1404 houses. It is believed, however, that the actual number of both exceeds the computation, from the difficulty of obtaining a fair return, in consequence of the apprehension, entertained by the inhabitants, of its rendering them more liable to the tax duty and militia service. Even at this rateage 20 2 it

    228 STATISTICAL SURVEY

    Internet Archive statisticalsurv11socigoog, Chapter 70

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere around here lies Barryroe, in Cork. The survey calls it a barony with nothing deserving the name of a town, yet the country is full of scattered houses, and in the more fertile parts the roads have the look of irregular streets. Smith counted 52,905 English acres and 146 plowlands. A later survey, thought accurate, cut the plowlands to 144 and the acres to 31,591. East Barryroe was estimated at 10,159 inhabitants and 1,695 houses. West Barryroe at 8,639 inhabitants and 1,404 houses. But the true number of both is believed to exceed the computation. The difficulty was getting a fair return, because the inhabitants feared that an accurate count would render them more liable to the tax duty and militia service. So the figures you have here are almost certainly low.

46. Botanical garden established at Cork Institution

    Cork · city · Cork

    A botanical garden was established at the Cork Institution, with Mr. Hincks serving as lecturer. The institution was expected to investigate the vegetable productions of County Cork, rendering botany a popular pursuit.

    Read the passage

    For the following account of grasses I am indebted to George Tisdall, Esq. the first of our scientific and not inferior to any among our practical farmers. Mr. Tisdall is particularly distinguished for his knowledge of Botany, a science not much cultivated in this country hitherto, but which the establishment of a botanical garden, at the Cork Institution, and the advantage of such a lecturer as Mr. Hincks, will, shortly render an object of favourite and entertaining pursuit The vegetable productions of this county, form ing of course a principal subject of inquiry, will K in consequence soon be ascertained. Under the prospect of so compleat en investigation, it seemed unnecessary to anticipate amy part of the business of the Institution ; but, as these surveys are generally accompanied with some communications of this nature, a short account of the principal pasture and meadow grasses has been deemed an appropriate, if not a necessary addition.

    Mr. Tisdall has been particularly attentive to the culture of grasses, and the saving the seeds of the more rare and valuable. From his skill and diligence

    Internet Archive statisticalsurv11socigoog, Chapter 306

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Cork, there was a botanical garden established at the Cork Institution here. Botany was a science not much cultivated in this country until then, but the garden and a lecturer named Mr. Hincks were expected to change that, and render botany an object of favourite and entertaining pursuit. The vegetable productions of County Cork were to form a principal subject of inquiry, and would in consequence soon be ascertained. The account of grasses that prompted this came from George Tisdall, described as the first of our scientific farmers and not inferior to any among our practical ones. He was particularly distinguished for his knowledge of botany, attentive to the culture of grasses, and to the saving of the seeds of the more rare and valuable kinds. His skill and diligence were noted. The Dublin Society directed the survey in which all of this was recorded.

47. Buttevant: religious ruins and decay

    Buttevant · town · Cork

    Buttevant, formerly a town of some note, had fallen into wretchedness by the time of the survey, with vestiges of ancient religious buildings reduced to little more than a heap of ruins. Its castle had been repaired by its owner John Anderson, Esq., but the place suffered from an irremediable want of fuel.

    Read the passage

    • There are some villages, as iJscarroU, Anagh, and Bnttevaat, the latter of which was formerly a town of some note. In its present wretchedness appear some vestiges of its ancient buildings, which were religious. These present little more than a beap of nsins. The castle has been repaired by its present owner, John Anderson, Esq. from whom may be expected as much improve* ment as the nature of the situation is capable, in its present situation, of receiving. It labours under a great, and, it is to be feared, irremediable want of fuel.

    446 , STATISTICAL SURVEY

    Internet Archive statisticalsurv11socigoog, Chapter 151

48. Clover seed market at Clonakilty

    Clonakilty · town · Cork

    Despite Weld's claim that tenants refused to purchase clover seed, the neighbouring town of Clonakilty served as a successful local market where tenants bought seed and continued to do so, undermining the narrative of principled rejection.

    Read the passage

    equal to his wishes, but he would have learned nothing more. His Lordship imported some seed, which he offered at reduced prices, and was much disappointed by the backwardness of the people to take advantage of so kind an. act. This, however, was very far from being a rejection upon principle. The fact is, they were not then sufficiently acquainted with its use. They might also have felt it awkward to go to such a place to buy, for I find no similar complaint among the sellers at the neighbouring town of Cloghnikilty, where they bought seed, and continue to do so still. The general indisposition to adopt new practices is easily accounted for, without having recourse to far-fetched and fanciful suppositions, libellous of the people, and incompatible with common understanding. It is by no means peculiar to the Irish, but found among the lower tribes of every country, as the natural result of attachment to ancient usage and established custom*. It is absurd as well as erroneous to suppose them actuated by any other motives, than those arising from the common prejudices of an ignorant

    peasantry*

    Internet Archive statisticalsurv11socigoog, Chapter 94

49. Courtmacsherry harbour and Lord Shannon's plantation

    Courtmacsherry · town · Cork · 1760–1765

    Courtmacsherry has one of the best harbours on the coast of Ireland, easy of access and admitting a small sloop at low water. The best grown plantation in the barony was made there about forty-five years earlier by the late Lord Shannon, whose taste and judgment enhanced a naturally beautiful place.

    Read the passage

    The only natural wood of any extent is ou the Timoleague estate, near which is a pretty seat of the Rev. Armiger Sealy. The best grown plantation is that of Courtmasherry, made about forty-five years ago by the late Lord Shannon, whose taste and judgment lent new graces to a place naturally beautiful. Of the old mansions few have any trees remaining, except Mr. Lucas's, at Richford'stown, and the Rev, Mr. Harris's, at BarryVhall. 2L2 The

    ness of their growth. Mr. Raw son (Survey of Kihhre) Mserts their inferiority in this respect, which, I believe, is contradicted by the experience of this county. The superiority of the English breed, some of which have been lately introduced, mint however be universally admitted.

    Internet Archive statisticalsurv11socigoog

50. Endowed classical school at Middleton

    Midleton · town · Cork · 1696–1810

    A school of classical literature at Middleton was endowed in 1696 by Elizabeth, Countess of Orkney, with management vested in eight trustees including the Bishop of Cork and the sovereign of Middleton. Its income was about £200 per annum, supporting a master, usher, writing-master, and exhibitions for scholars at the university, though at the time of writing it was not in a very flourishing state.

    Read the passage

    At Middleton is a school of classical literature, endowed in 1696 by Elizabeth countess of Ork* ney. The management is vested in eight trustees, of whom six are elective, the bishop of Cork, and the sovereign of Middleton for the time being, constituting the two others. The income is about 2001. per annum, of which the master has lOOl. — die usher 20l. — writing-master 20l. — 50l. in exhibitions to scholars to support them at the university ; the remainder forms a fund for keeping the house in repair. The reputation of this school has been sometimes very high; like other institutions it is fluctuating, and at present not in a very flourishing state*

    Castlemartyr, four miles east of Middleton, a very

    Internet Archive statisticalsurv11socigoog, Chapter 221

51. Extensive iron and paper works at Beechmount near Blarney

    Beechmount · site · Cork

    About a mile and a half south-west of Blarney at Beechmount, extensive works comprised a slitting mill, rocking mill, shovel mill, a foundry, and two paper mills. One of the paper mills used the new machinery and was carried on by Bartholomew O'Sullivan, father of James B. O'Sullivan.

    Read the passage

    About a mile and a half south-west of Blarney, at Ueechpaount, there are also extensive and useful works, comprising a slitting mill, rocking mill, and shovel mill, a founder/, and two paper mills. One ?f these cpntains the new machinery, and is carried pn by Mr. Barth. O'SuUivan, father of the gentle* man above mentioned.

    It is much to be wished, that all these praise* worthy and useful works may continue to feward the ingenuity and enterprise of the undertakers, it seems indeed probable, from the degree of activity which lias prevailed here so long, that, thof changes may occasionally take place, and individuals suffer loss and disappointment, some persons pf wealth and spirit will never be wanting to succeed to the. -vacancies, that may occur, and keep up the character, which Blarney has obtained. The great command of water, in consequence of two near fivers, a populous neighbourhood, and the vicinity of a great market, were circumstances undoubtedly sufficient to recommend the site as well adapted to many kinds- of manufacture. Time, the ultimate decider of speculating questions, appears to have sanctioned the judiciousness of the choice. In a country like this,,, where many $ie popr, many idltf, sad faw rich, mercantile enterprises experience juoreo^stractipn than those* wjucharis^/rqm situations

    Internet Archive statisticalsurv11socigoog, Chapter 238

52. Fermoy's paper and woollen manufactories

    Fermoy · townland · Cork

    An extensive paper-mill and a coarse woollen manufactory were established on the mill-stream at Fermoy. The woollen mill included a washing mill and necessary buildings, and was managed by a company of gentlemen familiar with the trade.

    Read the passage

    "On the opposite side of the river to these mills, a coarse woollen manufactory is in considerable forwardness ; a washing mill, and a large range of bouses necessary for the purpose, are already up , and the business is carried on in some degree, even in the present imperfect state of the undertaking* As both the primutn of this manufacture, and the market for its sale, exist in the country itself, per* taps no branch of industry is more natural and certain than this. But still more to insure success, the companyf consists of gentlemen, who were, some of them, bred to the business, and who have already shewn by previous trials, that they thoroughly uqderstand it."

    « To complete the catalogue of Fermoy manufactures, it only remains to be mentioned, that one gentleman): is extensively employed in the soap and

    Internet Archive statisticalsurv11socigoog, Chapter 170

    As the companion tells it

    Close to Fermoy, on the mill-stream, there was an extensive paper-mill, and on the opposite side of the river, a coarse woollen manufactory was being built. A washing mill and a large range of necessary buildings were already up, and the business was already being carried on in some degree, even in its imperfect state. The survey argued that since both the materials and the market for this manufacture existed in the country itself, no branch of industry was more natural and certain. The company consisted of gentlemen, some of them bred to the business, who had already shown through previous trials that they thoroughly understood it. To complete the catalogue of Fermoy manufactures, one gentleman was extensively employed in the soap and candle trade.

53. Fine limestone quarries near Ballyclough

    Ballyclogh · town · Cork

    In the neighbourhood of Ballyclough are very fine limestone quarries producing stone used for handsome pillars and tombs. The stone resembles Kilkenny marble in colour and quality but is not so dark, and seems capable of taking a fine polish.

    Read the passage

    county. The principal of these are its coal-bed*, of which a particular account will be given in & subsequent chapter. Of stone it seems to contain only two kinds, argillite and limestone, both of which, but particularly the latter, possess some peculiarities. * In the limestone quarries of the east and south-east parts of the county, it is not easy to perceive any regular order of formation. The blocks seem to lie in a state of accumulation, without any fixed or determinate arrangement Here, in many places at least, they are placed in regular layers, tier over tier, not in a horizontal, but an oblique position, and all dipping, in one direction, to the south. The argillite has a similar inclination, and tt is observable that quarries of every kind, on the north side of the county, bang in the same manner. This is also the precise direction of the coalbeds. The layers of limestone are of different thickness, some of them containing blocks of very large sizl, and close complete texture, resembling in colour and quality the Kilkenny marble, but not so dark. In the neighbourhood of Ballyclough are very fine quarries of this stone, which make band* some pillars, and are much used for tombs. They seem capable of a fine polish, and would doubtless answer well for works of nicer sculpture.

    Iu

    Internet Archive statisticalsurv11socigoog, Chapter 136

54. Inchigeelah lake's lost timber and scenery

    Inchigeelagh · townland · Cork · 1780–1810

    The large lake of Inchigeelah, nearly three miles long, once had wooded shores and tree-adorned islands that could rival Killarney on a smaller scale. Thirty years earlier the scenery was rich, but nearly all the timber had been destroyed, leaving scarce a vestige of sylvan decoration.

    Read the passage

    cataract and waterfall. Inchigeelah lake from the great disproportion of its breadth to its length, which extends near three miles, lias more the appearance of a broad river, sometimes narrowing and sometimes expanding its channel. The n<w live beauty of these lakes has been niuch impaired by the loss of their timber, which even the solitaiy remoteness of their situation has not been able to preserve from the hand of the 'destroyer. Thirty years ago they might have almost vied, upon a smaller scale, with the rich scenery of Ki^larney itself. Besides the woodlands, which skirted the lake, the little islands, of which Inchigeelah has several, were then adorned with trees and shrubs. Of ail this variety of sylvan decoration scarce a ▼eetige is now remaining. Notwithstanding the rude and sequestered nature of the situation, there axe many inhabitants in the neighbourhood of Gougane Barra, one eause of which may be the great eoncoarse of people annually assembling to bathe im the sacred waters*, and offer up their vows to the titular saint* The very wildness of the scene, fa- WttraJbde to impressions of religious veneration, probably contributed not a little to the long contiauancQ of these holy rites. To this may be added the remoteaess of the place, rendering a pilgrimage U> such, scenes an act in itself of no ordinary degree

    646 STATISTICAL SURVEY

    Internet Archive statisticalsurv11socigoog, Chapter 226

55. Industry and high rents in Imokilly

    Imokilly · barony · Cork

    In Imokilly, poor tenants paid high rents for small arable plots yet improved their circumstances through extreme frugality and unremmitting labour. The author observes that despite their lack of capital, these farmers maintained large families and sometimes grew rich from their farms. This industriousness demonstrates a high degree of skill and a great exertion of labour.

    Read the passage

    IT has been ja9tly observed by the gentleman, who favoured me with an account of Imokilly, that the high rents paid by his poor neighbours, and the' improving state of their circumstances under them, bear incontestable testimony to the possession both of skill and industry. We may, perhaps, go a little farther, and say with truth, that it would be difficult, if not impossible, to find among any people equal effect from equal means. To pay thirty founds fry-ear for fifteen acres of common arable land, to maintain at least one large family with comfort, sometimes even to grow rich on the profits of his farm, to undertake this with scarce any capital but two or three poor beasts and a few awkward imple- B ments

    9 ADDENDA.

    Internet Archive statisticalsurv11socigoog, Chapter 267

56. Migrant western labourers in Imokilly

    Imokilly · barony · Cork

    The Imokilly district sees an annual influx of western peasants supplying extra labour for potato digging. The reporter notes that much of this supernumerary labour could be saved by employing the plough instead of the spade.

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    general there is a good demand for labour, hi consequence of such extensive tillage. Digging being the usual mode of getting out potatoes, a greater number of hands than ordinary are then required, which is supplied by an annual influx of the western peasantry. A great deal of this supernumerary laboor might be saved by employing the plough instead of the spade.

    There are as usual many country schools, and in consequence of these, the numbers of resident no* blemen and gentlemen, and the intercourse with Cork, the English language may now be said to be pretty well established in this district.

    Internet Archive statisticalsurv11socigoog, Chapter 218

57. Rapid rise of the new town of Fermoy

    Fermoy · townland · Cork

    The new town of Fermoy was advanced by one man to a state of sudden splendour, overcoming the usual disadvantages of inland towns. This rapid development is described as resembling a magical process more than the slow operations of ordinary human industry.

    Read the passage

    in trade, are inhabitants of the country. They are chiefly confined to the larger maritime towns, as4 places best calculated to afford encouragement to commercial * speculation. Want of navigable communication is an additional impediment to establishments of this nature. The course of the large rivers is too rapid to admit any natural advantages of intercourse, and the construction of canals in a country of such inequalities seems to be a work of too heavy expenditure for present means. An obstruction of even greater moment presents itself in the want of fuel, an article of indispensible necessity to the establishment of most manufactures. These are disadvantages, to surmount which will require a. great enlargement of industry and opulence. Ingenuity aud enterprize are, however, sometimes found to possess resources capable of overcoming every difficulty, and far above the reach of ordinary minds. A singular and extraordinary instance appears in die new town of Fermoy, advanced under the auspices of one man to a state of sudden splendour, more resembling the effects of magical process thw the tardy operations of human industry. It could

    indeed

    Internet Archive statisticalsurv11socigoog, Chapter 163

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere around here is the new town of Fermoy. In this part of Cork, most trade and manufacturing stayed in the larger maritime towns along the coast, where commerce could thrive. Inland towns faced real obstacles. The large rivers ran too fast for navigation. Building canals across such uneven country would cost more than present means allowed. And there was a want of fuel, an article indispensable to most manufactures. These were disadvantages that would require great enlargement of industry and opulence to overcome. Yet ingenuity and enterprise are sometimes found to possess resources capable of overcoming every difficulty, far above the reach of ordinary minds. A singular and extraordinary instance appears in Fermoy itself, advanced under the auspices of one man to a state of sudden splendour, more resembling the effects of, as the source puts it,

58. Roman Catholic chapels at Mitchelstown funded by Lord Kingston

    Mitchelstown · townland · Cork

    A handsome Roman Catholic chapel stood in Mitchelstown with two others in the neighbourhood, the ground for all given and expenses largely defrayed by the late Lord Kingston. This demonstrated notable Protestant landlord patronage of Catholic worship.

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    There is also a handsome Roman Catholic chapel in the town, and two others in the neighbourhood, the ground for which was given, and the expence in a great measure defrayed, by the late Lord Kingston.

    The mansion house at Mitchelstown belonging to Lady Kingston is a large and magnificent building, worthy of its noble possessor. The pleasure ground and gardens beautiful and extensive. This fine and highly improved demesne contains no less than thirteen hundred acres, English measure, enclosed with a capital wall ten feet high.

    Internet Archive statisticalsurv11socigoog, Chapter 187

59. Rosscarbery's former tanning industry

    Ross Carbery · town · Cork · 1770–1810

    Thirty or forty years ago Rosscarbery had two large tan-yards, and bark was then abundantly supplied by the local country for four or five pounds a ton. Bark now costs twenty pounds and is commonly imported, reflecting the dramatic decline of the tanning trade in the region.

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    Tanning flourished here sev^n or eight yeam ago* It is now on the decline, principally owwg to the extravagant price of bark, aod ip tome measure, it is thought, to the mode °f te*S\n8 *** duty. The English manufacturer, who has ajso the advantage of superior s$uUt ** &#* ooahled to meet the Irish in his own market^ This business was formerly, much more extensive as well a* profitable than at present. Thirty or forty years ago there were two large ta#-yards in the town of Ross Carbery/ Bark,

    the^

    Internet Archive statisticalsurv11socigoog, Chapter 123

    As the companion tells it

    As you come through Ross Carbery, this was a tanning town. Thirty or forty years ago there were two large tan-yards here, and bark was abundantly supplied by the surrounding country for four or five pounds a ton. The trade is now in decline. Bark costs twenty pounds and is commonly imported. Tanning flourished here seven or eight years ago, but the English manufacturer, with the advantage of superior skill, is enabled to meet the Irish in his own market. The business was formerly much more extensive as well as profitable than at present.

60. Rosscarbery weavers reduced to distress by linen trade decline

    Ross Carbery · town · Cork

    Rosscarbery was chiefly inhabited by weavers whose trade scarcely sufficed for their support due to the deficiency of flaxseed. The town's former barrack and fortification were not renewed by government, contributing to its decline.

    Read the passage

    Ross Carbery, a town of great antiquity, has been more celebrated in former times as a seat of learning than of trade, though tradition assigns it the benefit of a harbour, * which has been long since choaked with sand. It is situated on a rocky eminence, projecting to the southt ana> nearly surrounded by a strand. In the centre of the town is a pretty large square, with four narrow streets diverging from its angles. There are some new slate houses, but the greater number are of very inferior description. It is chiefly inhabited by weavers, whose trade,, for the reasons above mentioned, now scarcely suffices for their support. It had formerly a barrack with a regular fortification for one or twp companies of foot, the lease of which government did not think proper to renew, though it appears to have been an eligible situation. On the east stands the cathedral, adorned with a new spire, and embosomed in trees, a very striking and beautiful object to travellers approaching from that side. The towu-

    belongs

    Internet Archive statisticalsurv11socigoog, Chapter 112

    As the companion tells it

    Coming up now is the town of Ross Carbery in Cork. It is a place of great antiquity, more celebrated in former times as a seat of learning than of trade. Tradition gives it the benefit of a harbour, but that has long since been choked with sand. The town sits on a rocky eminence, nearly surrounded by a strand. In the centre is a pretty large square, with four narrow streets diverging from its angles. There are some new slate houses, but the greater number are of very inferior description. It is chiefly inhabited by weavers, whose trade now scarcely suffices for their support. It had formerly a barrack with a regular fortification for one or two companies of foot, the lease of which government did not think proper to renew. On the east stands the cathedral, adorned with a new spire, embosomed in trees, a striking and beautiful object to travellers approaching from that side.