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. Skibbereen proprietors and Bridgetown estate

   Skibbereen · town · Cork

   Half the old town of Skibbereen belonged to William Wrixon Becher, Esq., and half to Samuel Townsend and Samuel Wright, Esqrs. The west side, called Bridgetown, was the estate of Richard Boyle Townsend, Esq., who also owned the land on the north side of the river. Skibbereen was originally called Stapletown.

   Read the passage

   tricts, and die wanf of any rival to share with it in supplying their wants. The great demand for shop goods in a short time enriches the retailer, who' then, enlarging his scale, becomes a merchant, and employs hi* capital in enterprizes of more expence &nd magnitude. The general appearance of the % town, however, is not very indicative of either riches or comforts. The middle part has some good house*, but the approaching streets, or rather lanes, hardly passable in winter, are lined with rows of thatched cabins of the worst and dirtiest description. The town stands on the south -side of the river lien. On the horth side is a considerable tract of good level land, with which there is at present but little communication. A bridge thrown across here would afford an opportunity, which the proprietor will pro* bably hereafter embrace, of improving and enlarging the town, as well as increasing most coosidera* bly the value of the estate. Half the old town belongs to William Wrixon Becher, Esq. and half to Samuel Townsend and Samuel Wright, Esqrs. That part on the west side, called Bridgetown, is the estate of Richard -Boyle Townsend, Esq. who is also proprietor of the land on the north side of the river; Skibbereen was originally called Staplefiown, a name not very happily exchanged far its present appellation,

   2 S Castle

   Internet Archive statisticalsurv11socigoog, Chapter 116

   As the companion tells it

   Skibbereen stands on the south side of the river. The general appearance of the town is not very indicative of either riches or comforts. The middle part has some good houses, but the approaching streets, or rather lanes, hardly passable in winter, are lined with rows of thatched cabins of the worst and dirtiest description. The great demand for shop goods enriches the retailer, who then, enlarging his scale, becomes a merchant and employs his capital in enterprises of more expense and magnitude. On the north side of the river is a considerable tract of good level land, with which there is at present but little communication. A bridge thrown across here would afford an opportunity of improving and enlarging the town, as well as increasing most considerably the value of the estate. Half the old town belongs to William Wrixon Becher, and half to Samuel Townsend and Samuel Wright. That part on the west side, called Bridgetown, is the estate of Richard Boyle Townsend, who is also proprietor of the land on the north side of the river. Skibbereen was originally called Stapletown, "a name not very happily exchanged for its present appellation."

2. Timoleague church in ruins, to be rebuilt

   Timoleague · town · Cork

   Timoleague church had long been in ruins but was planned to be rebuilt. It had no glebe-house and had been without a resident rector for many years, though a resident curate served. The Rev. James Harris had held the curacy for more than thirty years.

   Read the passage

   sional duties. This parish* originally belonged k> the abbey of the same name, on the dissolution of which it became lay property. Timoleague church has long been in ruins, but is now to be rebuilt. It has no glebe-house, and has for many years been without a resident rector; but there is a resident curate. It is remarkable that the same gentleman, the Rev. James Harris, ■ who commenced his ecclesiastical career with this very curacy more than thirty years ago, should still retain possession, unaffected by the various changes of bishops and rec- . tors, which have taken place within th&t period.

   This district is very poorly provided with schools, considering its wants; for, the far greater number of the common people speak only Irish. In the wild and mountainous tracts, that divide the counties of Cork and Kerry, every bare-legged peasant converses fluently in English, while in the populous and well cultivated country, adjacent to the southern coast, the prevailing dialqct is Irish. One should suppose, that a superior stile of cultivation, and the frequent opportunities of marine intercourse would have produced a contrary effect, but the fact is as here stated. The cause seems to arise from their different habits of life. The inhabitants of the sea coast follow a course of laborious industry, which, by ..employing the children at an early age,

   Internet Archive statisticalsurv11socigoog, Chapter 84

3. Barryroe wheat praised as county's finest in 1808

   Barryroe · townland · Cork · 1808

   In the productive summer of 1808, the wheat grown at Barryroe was judged unsurpassed anywhere in County Cork. That season was noted as one of the most plentiful in a long time, with 120 sheaves typically yielding at least two barrels.

   Read the passage

   • Barley, when it comes well, is, 1 tb'mk, generally a heavier crop, in proportion, than wheat. Instances have been known of twenty kil* derkins to the English acre. The average of good crops, how.-vcr, does not, I believe, exceed twelve. Last summer, ( 1 808) the wheat of Barry roe was not exceeded by any part of the county. This has been one of the most productive seasons known a long time, 120 sheaves seldom producing less than two barrels, and sometimes more.

   344 STATISTICAL SURVEY

   Internet Archive statisticalsurv11socigoog, Chapter 76

   As the companion tells it

   Somewhere around here, the wheat grown in 1808 was not exceeded by any part of County Cork. That summer was one of the most productive seasons known in a long time. The harvest was strong. 120 sheaves seldom produced less than two barrels, and sometimes more.

4. Boulting mill at head of Glandore harbour

   near Glandore · population centre · Cork · 1795–1810

   Messrs. Jervois of Brade erected a third boulting mill at the head of Glandore harbour. It was but recently finished at the time of the survey, joining two other mills in constant operation in the district.

   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

5. Castlelyons and Rathcormuck countryside

   Castlelyons · town · Cork

   The neighbourhood of Rathcormuck and Castle-Lyons in Barrymore is described as populous and productive, perhaps exceeding the southern part in quality of land but inferior in cultivation. A limestone tract at Castle-Lyons contrasts with the surrounding brown and red stone uplands.

   Read the passage

   southern part, convenient to manure and market, is populous, productive, and in many instances well cultivated. The neighbourhood of Rathcormuck and Castle-Lyons exhibits a similar description of country, exceeding the other, perhaps, in quality, but inferior in cultivation. The other parts, not excepting those which approach the city on the northside, have' been until lately much neglected, and still contain large tracts of ground very little indebted to the hand of culture. Of this the greater part seems to have been for many years under the slovenly mode of old dairy management, where a large extent of uncultivated land served only to support two or three lazy herdsmen and a small stock of ill-fed cows. Some of it still continues in a similar state, but the progress of industrious improvement is daily becoming more visible.

   The central parte of Barry more, between Cork and Rathcormuck, are very elevated, and, notwithstanding their vicinity to the city, do not seem to have been an object of early settlement. Till within a com* paratively short period, this great tract was probably a mere waste, without inhabitants, and without cultivation. In all the lower tracts, and even in some places of no superior promise, and of more remote wildness, we still can trace the numerous ruins of ancient habitation. After leaving Glanmire on-my

   Internet Archive statisticalsurv11socigoog, Chapter 202

6. Clonakilty as flax cultivation boundary

   Clonakilty · town · Cork

   Clonakilty marks the eastern boundary of the flax-growing district. Every occupier of land west of the town raises some flax, while cultivation gradually diminishes proceeding eastward and soon disappears entirely, illustrating the persistence of old habits.

   Read the passage

   The only manufactures in this district are those of frize (coarse woollen cloth) and linens, chiefly of the coarser kinds. The former is mostly for home ttse, every person tliat possesses, or can purchase a little wool, making some for clothing. The superfluity is fjcposed to sale at fairs. The linen business I shall hare occasion to speak, of more largely in the accouot of other baronies. All that seems necessary to be observed here, is, that flax is more cultivated in the western part of the barony, though the quality of the soil is generally inferior. It is extraordinary, that the culture of this valuable plant should be so slow in extending itself. As long as I can remember, the limits of the fla* district have been pretty nearly the same that they are at pre-, sent. From Cloghnikilty, westward, every occupier of land raises some flax ; in proceeding eastward from the same place, the cultivation gradually dimi* dishes, and in a short time totally disappears, a striking pro&f of the powerfql influence of old h*«-

   . bits,

   Internet Archive statisticalsurv11socigoog, Chapter 79

7. Clonakilty police reform and street paving under chartered magistrates

   Clonakilty · town · Cork

   Quarterly sessions of the peace, formerly almost disused, were restored in Clonakilty through the efforts of recorder John Townsend, maintaining peace and subordination. The town was paved using income from tolls formerly paid to the sovereign and officers, though further funding was needed for lighting and other improvements.

   Read the passage

   * The great advantages, arising from chartered magistrates and local jurisdiction, are here very apparent. Sessions of the peace, which some years ago had almost fallen into disuse, are now regularly held every quarter, in consequence of which peace and subordination are strictly maintained. This very necessary reformation of its police is, in a great measure, due to the spirited and active exertions of its present recorder, John Townscnd, Esq. A power of internal taxaUon, to a limited degree, for paving and lighting streets, and other useful works, would be an important addition to all such towns. This has been lately obtained for some others. Cloghnikilty has, indeed, been paved by an expenditure of the income derived from the tolls, formerly appropriated to the use of the sovereign and the pay of the officers. But, as the support of the establishment is expensive, something more would be n quired.

   OF the county OF CORK. 327

   Internet Archive statisticalsurv11socigoog, Chapter 111

8. Cloyne cathedral founded by St Colman, sixth century

   Cloyne · town · Cork · 501–600

   Cloyne claims considerable antiquity, with its cathedral said to have been founded by St Colman in the sixth century. The town never advanced beyond a populous village, deriving its principal consequence from the cathedral and the residence of a bishop.

   Read the passage

   Cloyne lays claim to considerable antiquity, if the town be coeval with the cathedral, which is said to have been founded by St Colman in the sixth century. It does not, however, seem to have ever advanced beyond the rank of a populous village, having no peculiar advantages of situation, except the fertility of the adjoining grounds. It stands in the southern vale of Imokilly, about two miles west of Cork harbour, and seems to derive its principal consequence and support from the establishments of a cathedral, and the residence of a bishop. The lands of this vale are remarkably good, and the

   bishop's

   Internet Archive statisticalsurv11socigoog, Chapter 220

9. Cork corporation charter and governance

   Cork · city · Cork · 1625–1649

   The Cork corporation operated under a charter of Charles I, comprising a mayor, two sheriffs, a recorder, aldermen, and freemen. Real power of appointment was vested in a club of leading corporation members rather than the freemen at large.

   Read the passage

   The corporation, under a charter of Charles the 1st, consists of a ma}Tor, two sheriffs, a recorder, several aldermen,* and an unlimited number of freemen. The sheriffs are chosen by the freemen at large, and after having served become burgesses, out of whom the mayor is elected, five names being drawn by lot out of the whole number. Of these five the freemen are to chuse one. This is the constitutional " mode1 of proceeding, though not at present the actual. The form is preserved in appearance, but the real power of appointing both sheriffs and mayor is vested in a club, composed of a number of leading members of the corporation. The duty of mayor in a city of such extent is attended with a good deal of trouble. He has a large and commodious house at the west end of the town, and a handsome salary to support the dignity of his office, which, from the liberal spirit of the generality of magistrates, seldom does more, than pay his expences. • The corporation returns two members to the imperial parliament.

   The appearance of Cork is greatly amended of

   Internet Archive statisticalsurv11socigoog, Chapter 245

   As the companion tells it

   Cork, the city you're passing through, had its corporation governed under a charter of Charles 1. It consisted of a mayor, two sheriffs, a recorder, several aldermen, and an unlimited number of freemen. The sheriffs were chosen by the freemen at large. After serving, sheriffs became burgesses, and the mayor was elected from among them. Five names were drawn by lot from the whole number, and the freemen were to choose one of those five. That was the constitutional mode of proceeding, though not the actual practice. The form was preserved in appearance, but the real power of appointing both sheriffs and mayor was vested in a club composed of leading members of the corporation. The mayor's duty in a city of such extent involved a good deal of trouble. He had a large and commodious house at the west end of the town, and a handsome salary to support the dignity of his office. From the liberal spirit of the generality of magistrates, that salary seldom did more than pay his expenses. The corporation returned 2 members to the imperial parliament.

10. Dr. Woodward's improvements at Glanworth

    Glanworth · town · Cork

    Dr. Woodward, incumbent of Glanworth, spent £500 of his own money to secure a perpetual lease of about twenty-seven acres for his glebe-house, and £3,000 on the building. He also founded a school and was flooring his church with an inexpensive durable composition.

    Read the passage

    The benefices in this quarter, and indeed ' for the most part in the diocese of Cloyne, are ' very considerable, in consequence of the great extent of the parishes or unions, and the late increase of tillage and population. Glanworth, I believe, is one of the best, and, were it larger, the liberal spirit of the present incumbent would induce every generous mind to rejoice in so appropriate a promotion. By a fine of £500 out of his own pocket, Dr. Woodward procured a lease for* ever of the ground, (about twenty seven English acres) on which his glebe-house stands. This, as already observed, is a very complete and elegant building, the expence, as certified by commissioners, <£3O00. — The decoration of the grounds by planting and dressing is every day receiving important additions from a taste, which spares no expence. His church, a very neat one, he is now flooring with a composition* hard as stone, and no less recommended by cheapness than durability ; it will not cost more than about six pounds.

    Dr. Woodivard has founded a school, up Jer patronage of the Dublin association for discounter

    Internet Archive statisticalsurv11socigoog, Chapter 187

11. Fermoy Population and Police Needs

    Fermoy · townland · Cork

    The population of Fermoy reached six or seven thousand when the garrison was full. The author noted that such a concentration of people made some form of local government and police absolutely necessary for public safety and managing the streets.

    Read the passage

    " Wherever six or seven thousand people are collected together, and such is the population of Fermoy when the garrison is full, some sort of local government and police becomes absolutely necessary. In the distribution of justice, as a magistrate, in deciding quarrels and making up disputes, the proprietor is unwearied ; and the prosperity of the place very much depends on his regular and unceasing exertions in this way. But there are many acts, that must be performed by the inhabitants, arid the expences -borne, in common ; the streets must be paved and cleansed, they must be lighted at night, nuisances and obstructions must be removed . from them, and the public safety insured by a pro* ;

    per

    Internet Archive statisticalsurv11socigoog, Chapter 175

12. Fuel poverty afflicts inhabitants of fertile limestone district

    Fermoy · townland · Cork

    Inhabitants of the fertile limestone parts of the district suffered severely from lack of fuel, as turf was costly for those distant from the mountains and depredation deterred planting of fences. The absence of so essential a requisite made dwellings in this fair country little to be envied.

    Read the passage

    One of the greatest privations, und&r which the inhabitants of the inore fertile parts of this district labbur, as well as one of the most difficult to be removed, is that of fuel. The mountains afford to places of cohvehient proximity a reasonable and sufficient supply, but to the distant peasants turf is an article of very costly attainment. The want of so essential a requisite to human comfort renders in£ny an abode in this fair and fertile country an object little to be envied by the inhabitants of the bleak and barren mountain. Unfortunately little texertion is made to supply by art the deficiencies of natUrt. The propagation of quick growing trees and shrubs, particularly fiirze, which, were fuel out of the question, ought to be an object of solicitude for the purpose of forming proper fences, would afford much relief. By an unlucky fatality, however, the demand for the article, instead of procuring a supply, as is the case with other commodities, operates against it. Depredation being the means resorted to by those, who want, the few, that might be disposed to plant for the supply of their oWn ne* cessities, are deterred by the fear of having their fences torn by their less provident neighbours. — Thus, because all will not lend a hand to the removal

    Internet Archive statisticalsurv11socigoog, Chapter 154

13. Fuel scarcity forces poor to burn furze and weeds

    Clonakilty · town · Cork

    The great population of the district had so reduced the supply of turf that fuel became extremely scarce and expensive in most areas. The poor were much distressed, substituting furze, briars, and weeds, with children collecting them as a principal employment.

    Read the passage

    The great population of this district lias at length so reduced the supply of turf, that in some parts fuel is extremely scarce, and in all, except the north-west quarter, very dear. The poor, in consequence, are much distressed, being obliged to substitute furze, briars, and every kind of weed that can be employed for the purpose. Collecting these is a principal employment of their children. The summer demand, which ouly requires a sufficiency to boil the pot, is easily satisfied, but the want of fuel in winter is the want of a most essential com* fort. The situation of the mountaineer is, in this respect, infinitely preferable. The import of coal into this part of the country is, in consequence, daily increasing.

    The principal lauded proprietors are, the earls of Shannon and Bandon, lord Carbery, the representatives of the late Hugh Smith Barry, and the Kev. Edward Synge, D. D, Ther<> are many smaller estates, but very few on which proprietors reside. The far greater part of the district is in the occupancy of common tenants. LprJ Carbcry'a is

    Internet Archive statisticalsurv11socigoog, Chapter 80

    As the companion tells it

    As the road takes you through Clonakilty, this was a district where the great population had so reduced the supply of turf that fuel became extremely scarce, and in all parts except the north-west quarter, very dear. The poor were much distressed, obliged to substitute furze, briars, and every kind of weed that could be employed for the purpose. Collecting these was a principal employment of their children. The summer demand, which only required enough to boil the pot, was easily satisfied, but the want of fuel in winter was the want of a most essential comfort. The situation of the mountaineer was, in this respect, infinitely preferable. The import of coal into this part of the country was, in consequence, daily increasing. The principal landed proprietors were the earls of Shannon and Bandon, Lord Carbery, the representatives of the late Hugh Smith Barry, and the Reverend Edward Synge. There were many smaller estates, but very few on which proprietors resided.

14. Magharee Islands noted for sea-sand soil and fine wheat

    near The Seven Hogs or Magharee Islands · island or archipelago · Kerry

    The Magharee Islands near Tralee are described as remarkable for producing excellent wheat, reportedly consisting almost entirely of sea sand. This observation is used to illustrate the fertility benefits of calcareous sand as manure.

    Read the passage

    will easily shew to be altogether groundless. I have heard them say, that mi|ch sand would, as they term it, burn the land, but I never knew one, who had actually found it to be the ease. One experiment is worth a thousand assertions. Some of the richest land I am acquainted with has been reclaimed from the tide, and contains, probably, more calcareous sand in one acre, than is to be found, In the way of manure, in fifty. The greater part of the Netherlands, the finest tillage land in Europe, has been reclaimed from (be sea, and is chiefly composed of sand. The rich banks of all our large rivers afford another instance of the utility of sand to the composition of a fertile soil. Sea sand, besides supplying the calcareous ingredient, is of great use, by its mechanical operation, in opening and mellowing the soil, and counteracting that tendency to cake and harden, which it so frequently possesses. The Magharee islands, near Tralee, are remarkable for producing excellent wheat I understand that they consist almost entirely qf sea sand* Marie is generally applied in vast quantities, and the effect is. proportionate, Our sea sand, properly speaking, is a shell marie. We may therefore safely lay it down as a truth, that nobody puts out too mubb, but that most people put out too

    Uttle

    Internet Archive statisticalsurv11socigoog, Chapter 76

15. Picturesque banks of the Lee and Sullane at Macroom

    Macroom · town · Cork

    In the neighbourhood of Macroom, the united streams of the Lee and the Sullane afford picturesque views enhanced by ruined castles and scattered woods. These provide exceptions to the generally rugged and unromantic mountain scenery of the western Muskerry barony.

    Read the passage

    south their extent is nearly the same; in the direction of east and west, Muskerry is greatly superior. This barony, the largest except Carbery, is divided into two parts, known by the names of East and West Muskerry/ for the convenience of civil regulation. It joins Carbery and Kinalmeaky on the south, the county of Kerry on the west, and Duhallow on the north. Barretts, combining with it on the east, reaches to Fermoy on the north, its other boundaries being Barrymore, Cork Liberties, and Kinalea. In this district, as in many others, nature, more kind to the eastern side, has encumbered the western parts with rock, bog, and mountain. This is particularly observable along the confines of Kerry, where the lands are rude, rugged, and stony in the extreme, with a very scanty intermixture of any thing fair or fertile to relieve the eye amidst such a dreary waste. The mountains, though sometimes high, generally want grandeur, and the intermediate hollows are seldom marked with, striking or romantic scenery. There are, however, some exceptions. In the neighbourhood of Macromp the banks of the Lee and the Sullane, which unite their streams a little below the town, afford some picturesque views, that derive occasional strength of effect from the occurrence of ruined castles and scattered woods ; and a little higher up, 4 N 2 the

    «44 STATISTICAL SURVEY

    Internet Archive statisticalsurv11socigoog, Chapter 226

16. Projected Bandon–Kinsale canal scheme

    Bandon · town · Cork · 1810

    A canal was proposed to link Bandon with the navigable part of the Kinsale river, with a possible extension westward to Dunmanway, where abundant wood and turf would benefit from cheaper transport. The project was suspended due to disagreements over the route, with the Duke of Devonshire's agents favouring the north side of the river and others the south.

    Read the passage

    In the southern district a lipe of canal has been lately mentioned with a degree of confidence, winch teemed to promise a speedy completion. The hope of its accomplishment became more sanguine from its being understood, that the undertaking was to commence under the auspices of the Duke of Devonshire. Bandou, the far greatest part of which belongs to his Grace, and which the. number and industry of the inhabitants entitle to every consideration and regard, stands within three miles of the navigable part of Kinsale river. It would be an object of great importance, and no difficult accomplishment, to open a navigable communication with that river. The object of the scheme was more comprehensive. The favourable nature of the ground, which reaches to a considerable distance westward in a level direction, induced the projectors to extend it to Dunmanway, in the neighbourhood of which is a good deal of wood, and an inexhaustible abundance of turf. To the farmers on each side it would also present an easy conveyance e 2 of

    I

    Internet Archive statisticalsurv11socigoog, Chapter 273

17. Sand encroachment at Inchidoney Island

    Inchydoney Island · townland · Cork · 1770–1810

    The author observes that marine sand has been progressively encroaching on the island of Inchidoney near Clonakilty, covering several acres within the preceding forty years. This is noted as the most significant sand advance along the Cork coast.

    Read the passage

    &AXto$, in other countries frequently found i» inland situations, are here almost confined to the •ea coast. Small quantities are occasionally seen in pits intermixed with gravel and clay, and con-1taining no calcareous matter, but all our extensive tract* of it are furnished from the ocean, and con* *ist more or less of marine shells. The prodigious quantity of this employed for manure, and which dote not appear to lessen its bulk, leads us to conclude that it is in a state of progressive increase. Its advances however, ifl consequence of the height of the ground along the coast, have been inconsiderable, the only place, where it has much encroached, being at the island of Inchidony near Cloghnikilty, aeveral acres of which have been covered within the last 40 years. In otljer places no very material alteration has taken place within memory. As its progress

    OF THE COUNTY OF CORK. *7

    Internet Archive statisticalsurv11socigoog, Chapter 21

18. Timothy grass meadow at Barry's-hall near Timoleague

    Timoleague · town · Cork · 1808

    The author observed Timothy grass growing in a meadow at Barry's-hall near Timoleague, likely introduced through Dublin dung used as manure. He had himself sown Timothy grass seeds given by George Tisdall in 1808 on reclaimed turfy soil.

    Read the passage

    genet much future advantage may be reasonably expected. In the year 1808, he gave me a Jew seeds of the Timothy grass, which I sowed with other grasses on a low and turfy soil well reclaimed. It did not shew any seed-stalks last summer, but this year I perceive a great many growing vigorously. It appears to be a strong good meadow grass. I have seen some of it in a meadow at Barrrfs-haU near Timoleague ; but, as that meadow was within reach qf Dublin dung, I presume that the seeds were brought in the manure.

    Having incidentally mentioned threshing machines, whifh till lately were confined to a few men qf fortune, I am to add that their use is in some places becoming more frequent, and the scale of their cotistruction much reduced both in size and price. They promise to be of great advantage to such as cultivate largely. Mr. Tisdall has a very good one erected for about £40. He informs me that there are now twelve in the barony of Barrymore, in which he resides. To petty farmers, in the more populous parts, they seem to be altogether inappropriate.

    Internet Archive statisticalsurv11socigoog, Chapter 306

19. Union of the parish of Litter with Fermoy

    Litter · parish · Cork

    To provide a clergyman for the growing Protestant population of Fermoy, a vacancy was brought about in the neighbouring parish of Litter. Litter was then united with Fermoy by act of council, and a clergyman was appointed to the union by the Bishop of Cloyne.

    Read the passage

    created, as it were, without any pre-existing materials. Fermoy used formerly to be considered as extra-parochial, atid its protestant inhabitants, who were not above three or four persons, resorted of course to some of the neighbouring parishes. After much search had been made in Dublin into ancient and musty records, it was at last allowed by the best civilians in Ireland, that Fermoy was, to all * •intents and purposes, a parish in construction of law; but, as the tithes were wholly impropriate* there was neither any church, nor any clergyman, nor any fund to build the former, or maintain the latter. The first step taken by the proprietor was to make over to the church, by way of free gift, ft certain small annual sum, payable for ever out of die impropriate tithes in his possession, in order to erect Fermoy into a perpetual curacy. He then nominated a clergyman to the cure, who bad previously begun to do duty in such private apartments as could be procured. , A vacancy was next brought about in the. neighbouring parish ef Litter, which liaving been united by act of council to Fermoy, the same clergyman was appointed by the bishop of Cloyne to the union. Provision having thus been made for a clergyman, it only remained to provide a church, that should be adequate to the growing wants of the place. The Board of first fruits con- 3 T v tributed

    506 STATISTICAL SURVEY

    Internet Archive statisticalsurv11socigoog, Chapter 174

20. Whiddy Island's rich and fertile soil

    near Whiddy Island · island or archipelago · Cork

    Whiddy Island, situated at the upper end of Bantry Bay, presents a surface of gentle inequalities covered by soil of uncommon richness and fertility, contrasting sharply with the rocky Bear Island at the bay's mouth.

    Read the passage

    on a scale of romantic magnitude, that imagination can well conceive. The extent of this great body of water, from the eastern extremity to the ocean, is about twenty-five miles, the breadth, including theislands, from six to eight It contains, ■ beside* some small, two very large islands, differing extremely from each other in quality and appearance, but perfectly suited to the respective purposes of their different situation. Bear island, very bigb, rocky, and coarse, standing a little within the mouth of the bay, braves the fury of the western waves, and forms, by the shelter of its large body, a most secure and spacious haven. Safe in its more retired situation at the upper end of the bay, the island of Whiddy presents a surface of gentle inequalities, covered by a soil of uncommon richness and fertility. The grandeur of the scene, in which this noble expanse of water bears so conspicuous a pfirt, is greatly enhanced by the rugged variety of the surrounding mountains, particularly those on the west side, which far exceed the rest in altitude and boldness of form. Among these, Hungry-hill, rising with a very steep ascent from the water, raises his broad and majestic head, easily distinguishable from a great distance, and for surpassing all the other mountains of this county in height and grandeur. The effect, produced by such an assemblage

    385 STATISTICAL SURVEY

    Internet Archive statisticalsurv11socigoog, Chapter 131

21. Fortifications and batteries of Bantry Bay

    near Bantry Bay · bay · Cork

    The author criticizes the expenditure of an estimated two hundred thousand pounds on fortifications and batteries at Bantry Bay, questioning their strategic value relative to other undefended ports. He argues the money would have been better spent on public institutions for agricultural improvement.

    Read the passage

    it in its beneficence, and, like the children of a good parent, would obey from the two-fold motive of love and fear. Of the expences incurred by defensive measures there could be no cause to complain, were they liable to no charge of error or misapplication. One instance of the latter may, I am afraid, be found in this county. To say nothing of the heavy cost of so many sea fencible establishments, the use of some of which is at least equivocal, what, we may be permitted to ask, are the advantages likely to result from the fortifications and batteries of Bantry bay? Exclusive of the extravagant rents paid for ground of little value, not less than two hundred thousand pounds are supposed to have been expended in works not yet brought to a conclusion. Were they even adequate to the defence of the bay, which, I believe, cannot with confidence be affirmed, what great end could they answer, when so many other assailable places are left wholly unprotected? Dublin, Cork, Waterford, and other ports of importance ought certainly to be strongly guarded against sudden attack, but the great source of public security must be found in the British fleet, a squadron of which should always be on this coast affording, as it does, such safe stations and ready egress. What then is the result of this great expenditure/ if the opinion here expressed be well found-

    OF THE COUNTY QT CORK. 7fi9

    Internet Archive statisticalsurv11socigoog, Chapter 257

22. Seaweed collection labour between Timoleague and Old Head of Kinsale

    Timoleague · town · Cork

    Workers rowed from Timoleague to the Old Head of Kinsale, a distance of seven or eight miles, to cut and gather seaweed for use as manure on coastal farms. The labour was severe—workers were wet through and returned the same distance without rest or refreshment, sometimes having their day's work undone by sudden changes of wind.

    Read the passage

    which are its usual limits. Four loads are the complement for an acre. The men are paid, either by a share of the weeds, or by a stipulated hire, generally Is. 6d. per head. The boats are often held in partnership, the proprietors forming part of the crew. The labour of this service is often very severe. They frequently row from Timoleague to the old head of Kinsale, a distance of seven or eight miles, spend two or three hours in cutting land gathering the weeds, a fatiguing work, fa which they are necessarily wet from head to foot, and re^ turn die same length of way without rest or refreshment. The tide, however, materially assists the* process, for, low water being the time for collecting, they go with the ebb, and return with the flood. It also frequently happens that, after arriving at the place of destination, -a suddeiK change of wincf disappoints the hopes of the day, for weeds can only be procured in smooth and clear water. This is, notwithstanding, a very favourite as well as neces* sary employment, and engages a great number of hands, from the first fair weather in spring to the beginning or even the middle of July. The usual mode of putting out those spring weeds is after the seed has been put in, and before the young plants appear, but it is by po means uncommon to spread them on the beds, after the plants have ap- 2 H 2 peared

    1 3d STATISTICAL 8URVET

    Internet Archive statisticalsurv11socigoog, Chapter 73

23. Bandon merchants dominate local linen market

    Bandon · town · Cork

    Bandon's merchants are the principal buyers in the linen market, making the town a natural commercial hub for the surrounding flax-growing district. Yet flax cultivation had not extended eastward as far as Bandon despite this commercial connection.

    Read the passage

    bits, and the difficulty of inducing new ones. Que might at least expect, that it should reach Bandon, the merchants of which are the principal buyers in the linen market.

    The great population of this district lias at length so reduced the supply of turf, that in some parts fuel is extremely scarce, and in all, except the north-west quarter, very dear. The poor, in consequence, are much distressed, being obliged to substitute furze, briars, and every kind of weed that can be employed for the purpose. Collecting these is a principal employment of their children. The summer demand, which ouly requires a sufficiency to boil the pot, is easily satisfied, but the want of fuel in winter is the want of a most essential com* fort. The situation of the mountaineer is, in this respect, infinitely preferable. The import of coal into this part of the country is, in consequence, daily increasing.

    Internet Archive statisticalsurv11socigoog, Chapter 80

24. Banduff house and castle, seat of William Morris

    near Banduff · townland · Cork

    Near Ross Carbery, Banduff is described as an old house joined to a castle of still greater antiquity, standing on a rock in a small romantic vale surrounded by steep hills. It is the seat of William Morris, Esq., and features notable trees including a large yew and beech, and an unusual rookery in a grove of laurels.

    Read the passage

    In the neighbourhood of Ross Carbery are also some ancient and some modern mansions. Of the former, which are still inhabited by the representatives of the old families, the most remarkable is Banduff, the seat of William Morris, Esq. The house, which is old, and joined to a castle of still greater antiquity, stands upon a rock, rising in the centre of a small romantic vale, surrounded by steep and lofty hills. Of the trees, which were formerly very abundant, many still remain, among which are a yew, and some beech of great size. A very singular circumstance occurs here of a rookery in a grove of laurels.

    Of the new houses the principal are onc9 built by Mr. Smith, at Downeen, where that family has been long settled, and another, at Deny, by the writer of

    Internet Archive statisticalsurv11socigoog, Chapter 115

25. Barley grown for breweries at Kanturk and Mallow

    Kanturk · town · Cork

    Barley was cultivated in the barony specifically to supply breweries located at Kanturk and Mallow, indicating these towns had active brewing establishments supplied by local agriculture.

    Read the passage

    objections to our potatoe system, viz, that it consumes- too great a quantity of dung. The second crop should be drilled with the plough, a practice, to which the common farmer of this district is as yet a stranger, thpugh it may be hoped, that the example of the most intelligent gentlemen agriculturists will at length introduce it. Barley is also cultivated here for the supply of the breweries at Kanturk and Mallow.

    The crops of wheat in this barony, particularly in the limestone .tracts, are good. The plant is more vigorous, and the grain fuller than is usual in the southern district. Among the common formers, ten bags to the large acre are considered to be a fair crop. Tlje produce of the best culture in good seasons is above this proportion. Clover and grass seeds are at yet only creeping into use, little of either being sowed, except by some of the gentlemen, and vetcjies are almost unknown.

    Internet Archive statisticalsurv11socigoog, Chapter 140

26. Carrigaline marble quarries

    Carrigaline · town · Cork

    Much of the limestone of Carrigaline takes the quality of marble, can be raised in large blocks, and is capable of a high polish. Grey and dove are the prevailing colours, showing its affinity to Cork marble.

    Read the passage

    concomitant is quartz in argillaceous strata. Much of the limestone of Carigaline takes the quality of marble, may be raised in large blocks, and is capable of a high polish. Grey and dove are the prevailing colours, which shew its affinity to the Cork marble. It is observable in most of the limestone tracts, that the stone of the western extremeties differs greatly from the rest both in colour and character, being much more hard, compact, and dark.

    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

    Internet Archive statisticalsurv11socigoog, Chapter 200

27. Castlecor, seat of Edward Deane Freeman, with ancient oaks

    Castlecor · electoral division · Cork

    Castlecor, the seat of Edward Deane Freeman, was recently enlarged with the old and new parts skillfully joined, and supplied with piped water from a neighbouring hill. The demesne contains very old oak trees measuring fifteen or sixteen feet in girth, and a former deer-park was incorporated into the pleasure grounds. A brook running through was used for irrigation.

    Read the passage

    A little further to the north, is Castle-cor, the ■seat ef Edward Deane Freeman, Esq. to whom I am indebted for much information relative to this wid the neighbouring barony. The house, now one «cif the best in the country, has been lately much enlarged, and tbe junction of the new part with the *>kl effected with more felicity of contrivance than usually accompanies alterations of this nature. The offices are no less remarkable for compact and con- Tenient arrangement A copious supply of water, conducted from the commanding grounds of a neighbouring hill, furnishes, by means of pipes, this most •necessary article to every place, that requires it, with a degree of facility few situations admit of, and still fewer attain. The demesne is not less indebted to Mr. Freeman for judicious alteration and tasteful embellishment, A deer-park, formerly severed by a public road crossing tbe house, has been thrdwn iato the pleasure grounds, without any inconvenience to the public and with infinite advantage to tbe place. In this are many very old and large trees, chiefly oaks, some of which measure fifteen or

    sixteen

    Internet Archive statisticalsurv11socigoog, Chapter 148

28. Castlefreke demesne and Lord Carbery's improvements

    near Castlefreke · street · Cork

    Castlefreke demesne, situated near Ross Bay with a southern aspect but exposed to weather, contains a spacious and well-built house erected by Lord Carbery. The demesne's deep swamps were drained and planted, and it boasts the only threshing machine in that part of the county.

    Read the passage

    Ross bay, and the various projections of the coast from thence to the Toe-head. The aspect, which is southern, is the best for this climate, but the ground falls too much at the east and west sides, (particularly the latter) to admit of sufficient shelter from plantation. The house, which was erected not many years since by the present noble possessor, is spacious, well planned, and incomparably well built, notwithstanding which it experiences in bad weather many inconveniencies, from which more humble dwellings of very inferior construe* tion are exempt.

    As an agriculturist Lord Carbery is honourably distinguished, as well by his exertions to prbmote the general interests of husbandry, as by the skil* fulness of his own practice and the benefit of his example. He has made considerable improvements in draining deep swamps, formerly unwholesome as well as unproductive, but now covered with -a rich coat of luxuriant herbage. Some of these he has also planted. Alders thrive here remarkably well, and are recommended by his Lordship as peculiarly excellent for nursing and sheltering other trees. The platan us, a very beautiful .tree, also grows well. He has found very great advantage in the way of shelter for young trees and shrubs from broom hedges. The broom grows 2N 2 most

    Internet Archive statisticalsurv11socigoog, Chapter 90

29. Clonakilty port trade in corn, potatoes and imports

    Clonakilty · town · Cork

    The trade of Clonakilty port consisted chiefly in exporting corn and potatoes to Cork and Dublin. Returning vessels brought bricks, tiles, and earthenware, while shop articles came by land-carriage from Cork. The harbour, though hampered by sand accumulation, was accessible to brigs and sloops at high water.

    Read the passage

    Cloghnikilty derives many important advantages from external circumstances also. The surrounding country is, for the most part, fertile, much cultivated, and extremely populous. From the nature of its situation it must always have a numerous population to supply, who will, of course, resort to its markets for the disposal of their produce, as well a* the provision for their wants. The proximity of the ocean, though not attended with all the circumstances, tbat favour other maritime situations, is, however, of prime and permanent importance. The tide flows up to its quays, navigable for small sloops and lighters, and though the great accumulation of sand at its mouth renders ingress and egress often difficult, and sometimes dangerous, the harbour is, at high water, accessible to brigs and sloops, and, when attaiued, a station of perfect security. The' channel from the harbour to the town, the distance of which is about a mile, has received some in>* j>rovement lately, and is capable of much more. The trade of the port consists chiefly in the export

    of

    Internet Archive statisticalsurv11socigoog, Chapter 111

30. Cloyne Cathedral and round tower

    Cloyne · town · Cork · 500–599

    The cathedral of Cloyne, dedicated to St Colman who is said to have founded it in the sixth century, is a plain Gothic building in the form of a cross. Near it stands a round tower ninety feet high, the only one remaining in the county except that of Kinneah which is about seventy feet.

    Read the passage

    The site of the cathedrals within this county remains unaltered. That of Cork, which was rebuilt in 1733, retains no vestige of its antiquity, except the gateway in the west end, over which there is a spire of very indifferent workmanship, which ought to be rebuilt The cathedral of Cloyne, dedicated to St Colman, by whom it is said to Jiave been founded in the sixth century, is a plain Gothic building, built, like others of like date, in the form of a cross, with lateral aisles communicating with die main aisle by arches. Near this is a round tower, ninety fleet high, the only one now remaining in

    this

    Internet Archive statisticalsurv11socigoog, Chapter 47

31. Coal deposits between Doneraile and Mallow

    Mallow · town · Cork

    An argillite tract running from Fermoy barony between Doneraile and the Blackwater, passing north of Mallow westward to the Kerry mountains, contains coal. The coal is often near the surface but collieries are neglected due to remote situation and bad roads.

    Read the passage

    has been hitherto discovered*. The seat of the coal is in those tracts of argitlite, which have been already mentioned. One of them takes its eastern commencement in the barony of Fermoy, between Doneraile and the Blackwater, and, passing on the north side of Mallow, continues its course westward to the mountains, that form the boundary of Kerry. In this tract, and principally in the western part of it, the greatest quantity of coal has been found* Another argillaceous range parallel to this, and north of Kanturk, is also found to contain it. In some places the coal approaches very near the surface, where the veins are usually thin, but widen as they . descend. The position of the strata, which run to great distances east and west, is, as has been already observed, not horizontal, but inclined, rising towards the surface, as they go northward, and dipping or descending in the contrary direction. The coal is enclosed in a cover or case of dark ferruginous slate, some of which splits into laminse, or plates, of a size and form resembling large house slates, but apparently too brittle and tender for that use. As these argillaceous tracts abound with water,

    for

    Internet Archive statisticalsurv11socigoog, Chapter 144

32. Cockle-shell marble discovered near Doneraile

    Doneraile · townland · Cork

    Marble found near Doneraile is almost entirely composed of cockle shells, a fish of great abundance on the southern coast. The author notes that every calcareous tract in the county exhibits vestiges of this shell more or less.

    Read the passage

    of limestone-land, which appears to be a continuation of that, which passes through the south aide of Imokilly. It terminates near Carigaline-bridge, beyond which, neither in a western direction, nor to the south side of this line, is any limestone found. It seems a remarkable circumstance that, the southern part of the county containing so many deep vales, the situations, in which limestone commonly appears, should possess no portion of calcareous rock. The contiguity of an ocean, abounding with fit matter for its production, would naturally lead one to expect a more than ordinary share, especially as we find in the composition of the interior limestone so large a contribution from its. stores. In the neighbourhood of Doneraile, marble has been found almost entirely composed of cockles, a fish of great abundance on the southern coast, and, I believe, every calcareous tract exhibits vestiges of this shell more or less. It seems, therefore, not a little extraordinary, that so great an extent of coast should be altogether destitute of limestone. I have observed another singular circumstance, respecting the limestone of this county, less imputable, however, to natural than accidental causes. It is found only in contiguity with redstone. Where the grey- Stone district begins, the limestone disappears. Tlie

    range

    Internet Archive statisticalsurv11socigoog, Chapter 189

33. Coolmain stone used at Courtmacsherry octagon

    Courtmacsherry · town · Cork

    Good argillaceous freestone from Coolmain quarries was used in constructing the octagon at Courtmacsherry. The neighbouring abbeys of Timoleague and Abbeymahon were likely also supplied from the same quarries.

    Read the passage

    xions. Mr. Stawell deserves honourable mention for the general stile of his farming, which is found* ed on approved principles, and conducted with judgment and spirit. There are some pretty and improved spots on the north side, near Kinsale river, where the soil seems to be of better quality than in most other places. Coolmain affords a good argillaceous freestone for building, some of which was used in the octagon at Courtmasherry. It is not improbable, that the neighbouring abbeys of Timoleague and Abbeymahon were supplied from the same quarries. The southern cliffs afford abundance of good slate, occasionally sent to Cork and Kinsale in the summer months. The well known promontory, called the old head of Kinsale, projects from the eastern part of this barony. It is much the longest of all our headlands, and, being furnished with a good light-house, forms a material point of direction for the harbour of Cork and Kinsale. Near the outer extremity stand the ruins of a castle, easily defensible against a large force from the narrowness, of the approach. Situations of this nature, devoid of every recommendation, save the single one of defensibility, were never overlooked, and they give a melancholy picture of the state of the times, in which they were built. As ruins, they have doubtless a fine effect, partly arising from their

    own

    Internet Archive statisticalsurv11socigoog, Chapter 130

34. Copper impregnated bog ashes at Glandore harbour

    near Glandore · population centre · Cork

    A hill on the east side of Glandore harbour shows evidence of copper, revealed by the ashes of a small turf-bog so impregnated with the metal that they destroy all vegetation. Farmers must carefully remove these ashes from their yards.

    Read the passage

    Of valuable minerals little as yet appears. Iron is sufficiently abundant, but useless for want of means to smelt it. Lead and copper are probably contained in the bowels of many hills. A small quantity of the former has been found at the Leap, on the estate of Samuel Jervois, Esq. the quality of which seems to be good. Copper certainly exists in a hill on the east side of Glandore harbour, evinced by the ashes of a small turf-bog, which are so impregnated with that metal as to destroy all vegetation within their reach. The farmers are obliged to remove them from their yards with great care. This may hereafter lead to some useful discovery*. On the estate of the gentleman above- 2 Y 2 mentioned

    * In the neighbourhood ot Cattkfreke there if another small beg of similar description, but rather more strongly impregnate^ . with that mineral. 1 have seen at Lord Carbery's a half-twrneo\ torf entirely incrusted with copper.

    Internet Archive statisticalsurv11socigoog, Chapter 118

35. Duke of Devonshire's improvements to Bandon

    Bandon · town · Cork · 1800–1810

    The Duke of Devonshire, owner of the old town of Bandon, has recently made improvements including a handsome court-house for county sessions, new dwelling-houses forming part of an intended square, and a spacious quay on the south side of the river. A second bridge and corresponding quay on the north side are projected to accommodate the town's growing population.

    Read the passage

    Many improvements have been lately made, and others projected by the duke, whose large estate* in both islands display abundant instances of his grace's unsparing liberality. Of the former the principal are, a handsome court-house, in which county sessions are held, some excellent new dwelling-houses, forming part of an intended square, and a spacious quay on the. south side of the river. His grace's agent has also built some small houses, which, though very superior in appearance to houses of the same description, are not considered as of convenient construction for the purposes of the inha* brtants, who are chiefly weavers, the lower apartments being too, confined for their looms. Among the projected improvements are, I understand, asecond bridge, and a corresponding quay on the north side of tfie riVer. The bridge will be an important addition, as well for at) approach to the new buildings, as fpr the convenience of the town, the increased size and population of which require a second means of communication between the north and south sides.

    Here are two weekly markets, on Wednesdays and Saturdays, the former on the north, the latter on the south side of the town. , Saturday's market is by far the best, and one of the largcpt in the county. It is also one of the most reasonable,

    Internet Archive statisticalsurv11socigoog, Chapter 123

36. Fermoy meat, fish and vegetable market

    Fermoy · townland · Cork

    A market for meat, fish, and vegetables was built by the proprietor at the east end of Fermoy, financed on the presumption that market dues would eventually cover the expense. Butchers rented individual stalls weekly, modelled on the Cork market system.

    Read the passage

    " In this manner is Fermoy perceptibly creeping up into a considerable market town for the adjacent country, as well for the disposal of what it produces, as for supplying itself with what it wants. Wheat, barley, oats, bay, and straw ; fat cattle, pigs, poultry; milk, butter, cheese ; in short, the whole produce of a farm, are bartered for ready money to pay rent, for common necessaries, and for those few luxuries, that the peasant either chooses or can afford to indulge in. The mtat-market> and that for fish and vegetables, stands at the east end of the town, and was built by the proprietor on the s presumption of the market dues in time defraying the expence. The sum they let for is, even now, considerable, and must yearly increase. Each butcher has his stall, as in the Cork market, and pays a weekly rent The principal market day is Saturday, to which the resort is frequently veiy great. — 3 R , Fairs

    * Belonging to Mr. Archibald Grobb.

    Internet Archive statisticalsurv11socigoog, Chapter 168

37. Fermoy's new church architecture

    Fermoy · townland · Cork

    The new church at Fermoy, designed by architect Mr. Hargrave, stands below the barracks on the hill ascent facing the bridge and market-house. The body measures ninety by forty feet, with an oval interior, Portland stone decorations on the east window, and a transparency representing the Ascension. The tower is surmounted by four large urns.

    Read the passage

    u Towards this extension the erection of a second large barrack will materially contribute. — The one already built forms three sides of a rectangle of eight hundred feet by seven hundred, having the cavalry barracks, and the two infirmaries, in the rere, and the different offices behind the wings. The whole, occupying nearly thirteen acres of ground, is surrounded with a high wall, with a draw-bridge in front, behind which, on the esplanade, is the main guard. It was built in three years, at the expence of about .£50,000, and is capable of containing three regiments of infantry and a squadron of cavalry. Until the other barrack is built, it will continue, as at present, to form the most prominent object about Fermoy, if it may not more properly be said to compose a mass q£ pbje^ts, which from different points of view exhibit very various, but all extremely beauUful appearances. The church, which stands a little below it, on the ascent of the hill, fronting the bridge and market-house, is likewise a very neat and chaste building, Mr. Hargrave, the architect, having va-

    . Joed

    Internet Archive statisticalsurv11socigoog, Chapter 167

38. Fuel scarcity and high turf prices at Fermoy

    Fermoy · townland · Cork

    Turf was the only fuel available to the common people in this part of Cork, and it was both very expensive and very scarce at Fermoy. A small cart-load cost between three shillings and three shillings and three pence, making it difficult for the poor to preserve fences or warmth.

    Read the passage

    This ground, when well fallowed, which is now "beginning to be done in a better style, will yield a good crop of barley or oats ; very frequently it is laid down, with one or other of these crops, with artificial grass ; patches of clover and vetches are likewise beginning to be made use of for horses in summer : but no winter crops are raised, except by gentlemen, whose demesnes are secured by walls. As such feeding is found to be improper for dairy, it would not be suitable to this country, which is not a sheep country, and the feeding of black cattle with turnips and the like found too expensive. One of the great bars (o good farming in this part of the country is, the scarcity of fqel, which almost prevents the possibility of preserving fences. Turf, the only fuel of the cogunon people, is very dear; a very *mall load of a cart, not bigger than an ass cart, sells at Fermoy for three $ hillings to three shillings and three pemce, a&d very, scarce. Few oxen are used in this country; Mr. Hyde alone has them in any number."

    3 o JPasturc.

    Internet Archive statisticalsurv11socigoog, Chapter 160

39. Kilworth: a declining traveller's stop

    Kilworth · townland · Cork

    Kilworth is described as a small and poor town in the barony of Condon and Clangibbon's. It was formerly a resting place for travellers between Cork and Dublin but had declined, being now hardly resorted to except by common carriers, due to the superior accommodations at Fermoy.

    Read the passage

    The towns of the barony of Condon and Clangibbon's, which joins Fermoy on the east side, are Mitchelstown and Kilworth. The latter is a small and poor town, formerly a resting place for travel- ' lers between Cork and Dublin, but now hardly re* sorted to by any but common carriers, in consequence of the superior accommodations of Fermoy. Ac^oining it on the south side, is a large house and very fine demesne of Lord MountcashePs, watered by the Funcheon, which here assumes a very re spectable size. This river, like the Black water, flows in many parts of its course under a range of limestone rocks, various and romantic in their form, and, where wooded, extremely beautiful. The demesne under consideration possesses great advantages of this nature, and the taste of its noble possessors has been assiduously directed to the improvement of so happy a situation. A little below the junction of the Funcheon and Blackwater, and

    on

    Internet Archive statisticalsurv11socigoog, Chapter 183

40. Lord Carbery plans new town adjoining old Rosscarbery

    Ross Carbery · town · Cork

    Rosscarbery belongs to Lord Carbery, who holds it under the see of Ross, which renders it an object of inferior concern. His lordship entertained a design of building a new town adjoining the old one on his own estate, dependent on the revival of the timber trade.

    Read the passage

    belongs to Lord Carbery, who holds it under the see of Ross, a circumstance that renders it an object of inferior concern. His lordship entertains a design of building a new town, adjoining the old one, on a part of his own estate. This, however, like other projected improvements of the same nature, must await the revival of the timber trade. Ross has a weekly market on Wednesdays, and three fairs, in which a considerable number of pigs, lambs, sheep, and small cows are exposed to sale. There is also a good deal of linen yarn sold here. The bay of Ross, in fine weather, affords plenty of fish, chiefly haddock and bream, which are comxn&nly very cheap. Provisions of all kinds are for the greater part of the year sold at reasonable prices. *

    D unman way stands near the head of the river Bandon on a small flat, encompassed by lofty hills, in the glens and hollows of which there are still some extensive ranges of oak woods. Though in in a country too remote and wild to encourage any hope of ever becoming considerable, the convenience of fuel and water seems to render it no ineligible situation for a small manufacturing town. The causes of its decline have been already mentioned. Something, however, has been lately done. In- 2V3 duced

    Internet Archive statisticalsurv11socigoog, Chapter 113

41. Lord Carbery's plantation on a timberless coastal demesne

    Timoleague · town · Cork

    Lord Carbery made judicious and successful efforts to establish a plantation in a place altogether destitute of timber, raising his own trees in extensive and flourishing nurseries. Some parts of his demesne, from proximity to the ocean and exposure to westerly winds, were very unfavourable to tree growth.

    Read the passage

    Lord Carbery's efforts towards establishing a plantation in a place altogether destitute of tifober hbVe beeii equally judicious and successful. Adopting toe true plan of doing the business effectually, by raising his own trees, hie has made very exterisivte tad flourishing nurseries. In these, from which his lordship has already planted pretty largely, he has now a copious assortment of shrubs and forest tries, which will enable him to attain the great desideratum

    OF THE COUNTY OF CORK. 261

    Internet Archive statisticalsurv11socigoog

42. Mallow Castle and its ornamental demesne

    Mallow Castle · monument · Cork

    Mallow Castle, seat of Denham Jephson, Esq., principal proprietor of the town, has been long celebrated for the neat arrangement of its grounds divided into large regular fields surrounded by a double fence of quicks with a great walk between. Called a 'ferme ornée,' it is perhaps not exceeded by any demesne in the kingdom.

    Read the passage

    and elegant house, coated with a cement imitating hewn stone, which it rivals in beauty, and is reputed almost to equal in durability. Of the old, the principal are Rockforest, the seat of Sir James Cotter, Bt. and Mallow-castle, that of Denham Jephson, Esq, principal proprietor of the town. The former standing on the south bank of the Blackwater, a few miles below Mallow, is a most respectable old place, abundantly adorned with wood, as most of the seats on that fine river are. The latter has been long celebrated for the peculiarly neat and admirable arrangement of the grounds, divided into large and regular fields, surrounded by a double fence of quicks, with a great walk between. Every field is also encompassed by hedgerow trees of great size, exclusive of many others more irregularly intermixed. As a ferine orn€, (so it has been appropriately termed by Mr, Young,) it is not, perhaps, exceeded by any demesne in the kingdom.

    Doneraile, six miles N.E. from Mallow, hardly

    Internet Archive statisticalsurv11socigoog, Chapter 178

43. Medicinal chalybeate springs at Mallow

    Mallow · town · Cork

    The author notes that Cork has several chalybeate springs but none of medicinal celebrity except those at Mallow. These waters are said to resemble the Bristol waters in taste and temperature and are reputed to possess the same qualities.

    Read the passage

    The eounry of Cork yields to none in the abundance as well as excellence of its waters, with which it is plentifully supplied by many rivers, and *n incredible number of springs and rivulets. Here is also found a great number of small lakes, chiefly in the rough and mountainous parts of the country. There are several chalybeate springs, bnt no waters of medicinal celebrity, except those of Mallow, which resemble the Bristol waters in taste and ternp«*«ore, and are reputed to possess the same qua- Hti«i. The most considerable of its rivers is the Blackwater, which rises from mountains on the eonfines of Kerry, and running south for a short way, until it approaches Milktreet, then changes

    its

    Internet Archive statisticalsurv11socigoog, Chapter 11

44. Mysterious circular hollows in Magourney parish

    Magourney · parish · Cork

    On the north side of the Lee in the parish of Magourney are several small, regularly-formed circular hollows resembling bowl-dishes, about ten or twelve feet deep and twenty feet in diameter. They appear to be natural formations caused by subsidence rather than volcanic craters.

    Read the passage

    . deserving the notice of the curious naturalist, occurs in this district. • On the north side of the Lee, in the parish of Magourny, are several small circular hollows, in shape resembling a bowl-dish,

    . and as regularly formed. The depth at the centre may be about ten or twelve feet, the diameter of the ope about twenty. In winter, and after heavy falls of rain, water sometimes lodges in them, but in general they ar* dry. The regularity of their

    Internet Archive statisticalsurv11socigoog, Chapter 227

45. New road line from Fermoy to Tallow

    Fermoy · townland · Cork

    Following the failure of the canal project, a new line of road was discovered from Fermoy to Tallow, avoiding the hills and connecting to the navigation of the river Bride, which flows into the Blackwater.

    Read the passage

    consequent diminution of land-carriage, in all ex* ports and imports. Under a perfect conviction of these truths, Mr. Anderson exerted himself so effectually in the business some years ago, that •f 2 0,000, and upwards, was subscribed by the gentlemen contiguous to the Blackwater, and the expence of a navigation from Fermoy to Lismore was ascertained by Major Taylor, the engineer employed for the purpose, not to exceed that sum ; but it ' was at the same time ascertained, that not less than Jour times that amount would have been necessary to carry the canal from Fermoy to Mallow. The former cut was abandoned, from the refusal of some gentlemen to part with the ground necessary for it to pass through ; but, unless the canal could have been carried farther up the country than Fermoy at a moderate expence, it is a matter of some doubt, whether so short a cut as twelve miles could have been of any great public benefit^ or even defrayed the expence of construction. But, be that as it may, it is evident that Fermoy must forego the advantages pf water-carriage for the present ; apt! the only thing remaining was, to improve the road from thence to Tallow, a little below which begins the navigation of the river Bride, which flows into the Blackwater. This has been dtine by discovering a new line of road, which, by avoiding the bills, enables

    Internet Archive statisticalsurv11socigoog, Chapter 173

46. Rapid growth of Fermoy and its military barracks

    Fermoy · townland · Cork

    The town of Fermoy, along with its three or four barracks, was erected in the short span of ten to twelve years. This rapid construction provided extensive employment for tradesmen of all kinds, who then settled in the new town.

    Read the passage

    " In the foregoing enumeration, scarce any of the sources of employment for the inhabitants of Fermoy have been omitted, except two. One of these is the building trade, which is, properly speaking, a species of manufacture, the returns of which are made by posterity. Ever since the origin of the place, much circulation has been occasioned by this means, and a great many hands employed. To have erected, in the short space of ten or twelve years, even so small a town as Fer-

    moy,

    Internet Archive statisticalsurv11socigoog

47. Re-establishment of Fermoy fairs

    Fermoy · townland · Cork

    Fairs at Fermoy, which had long fallen into disuse, were successfully revived through well-judged encouragements. Both on fair days and market days the town became densely crowded, demonstrating how easily people could be drawn to a given spot.

    Read the passage

    Fairs too, which had long gone into disuse, tytve been re-established, by a few well-judged encouragements in the beginning, and both on these occasions, and on market days, the place is crowded in such a manner as to prove to a demonstration, how easily mankind are brought together to a given spot, if one understand the proper method of doing it."

    . " 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

    Internet Archive statisticalsurv11socigoog, Chapter 169

48. Remarkable quartz rock near Ross

    near Ross · parish · Cork

    Near Ross in the barony of Carbery stands a curious rock composed entirely of white quartz, with blocks of great size and regular conformation. Part of the original structure remains intact, but much appears to have been torn away by some convulsion of nature.

    Read the passage

    markable rock, composed entirely of white quartz, the blocks of which are of great size and regular conformation. Part of the original structure seems entire, but much lias been torn away by some convulsion of nature. Another remarkable circumstance, which frequently occurs in the same barony, deserves to be mentioned. Not only in low grounds, and under lofty hills, from which such stones may be supposed to have fallen, but even on high situations, and at a great distance from any overtopping hill, are found vast numbers of grit stones, several of theni weighing two tons and upwards. Some of these are on the surface, others sunk in a bed of clay, formed, it should seem, from the decomposition of the subjacent rock, which is usually a coarse shisttfs entirely dissimilar from the stony burthen it so unaccountably supports. Of this district the east- \ern part has rery much the advantage in depth and fertility of soil. In proceeding westward the ground becomes more atony and rugged, nor is it easy to find a field, however small, in which the rock does not somewhere make its appearance.

    Bog and marsh belong principally to the mountain districts. In other parts, though not altogether infrequent, they are too inconsiderable to be distinguished on a map.

    Internet Archive statisticalsurv11socigoog, Chapter 20

49. Rev. William O'Brien, parish priest of Cloghoikilty, praised for loyal conduct

    Clonakilty · town · Cork

    The author pays tribute to the Rev. William O'Brien, parish priest of Cloghoikilty, for his animated and steady exertions in promoting legal subordination, noting that neither difficulty nor danger deterred him from discharging his duty as a loyal citizen. The author mentions this in connection with his account of Fermoy and frames it as justice to the meritorious demeanour of the Roman Catholic clergy.

    Read the passage

    than one instance I have had an opportunity of observing, their meritorious demeanour in promoting Jegal subordination, and, in mentioning this part of their conduct, I should be guilty of injustice, did I not bear honourable testimony to the animated and steady exertions of the Rev. William O'Brien, parish priest of Cloghoikilty, whom neither difficulty nor danger prevented from discharging the duty of a loyal citizen. It was with reluctance I stated the circumstances, which the reader has found in the particular account of Fermoy, and it is in compliance with the dictates of the same duty, that I feel myself called upon to offer the following observations. Whatever bears relation to the interests of the people, whatever seems reprehensible in the conduct or sentiments of any of those, who direct so great a number of them, is more' or less connected with the objects of the foregoing work.

    In the laborious, liberal, and patriotic work, lately presented to the public by my friend Thomas Newen ham, Esq. appears a letter (vide Appendix) from a Roman Catholic clergyman, whose name is suppressed, but to whose opinion and authority no small degree of credit seems to attach. From this I intended to have made some extracts; but to prevent the possible charge of partial quotation, as well as to gratify such readers, as may not have seen Mr*

    Internet Archive statisticalsurv11socigoog, Chapter 289

50. Robert Gordon's failed moorland undertaking north of Blarney

    near Blarney · townland · Cork · 1770–1780

    A few miles north of Blarney were the remains of an expensive but unsuccessful undertaking by the late Robert Gordon, a Scotsman who served as commissary and surveyor general of Munster. More than thirty years before the survey, he took a large tract of moorland with intent to improve it, but the enterprise was much less fortunate than Mr. Jeffries's works at Blarney.

    Read the passage

    A few miles north of Blarney are the remains of an undertaking, equally spirited and much more expensive to the proprietor, but, much less fortunate in its result thap that of Mr. Jeffries. The late Robert *Gordon, Esq. commissary and surveyor general of Monster, more than thirty years ago, took a very Urge tract of moorland, with *« intent

    tic**

    Internet Archive statisticalsurv11socigoog, Chapter 239

51. Slate quarries at Galleyhead and vicinity

    near Galley Head · promontory · Cork

    At the Galleyhead and one or two places farther south, there was a narrow vein of liver-coloured slate, more durable but less tractable than the blue slate common along the coast. The general fault of quarrymen was running too much on the surface to save labour.

    Read the passage

    the colour of die slates of this coast is blue ; those of Wales are of a darker hue, with a little intermixture of purple. At the Galleyhead, and in one or two places farther south, there is a narrow vein of livercoloured sjsoe, more djirable, but less tractable than the blue, the lamippe of which are smoother and jnpre easily separable. Jn many quarries they may J>e raised to any size, bqt the general practice is to break them into small and thin flakes, as a lighter covering for slight roofs. The general fault of our qiiaprymen is, running too much pn the surface, partly to save the labour of sinking, and partly to escape the trouble of keeping tfiem free of water, which js generally found at a small depth. The best are tbiis left behjpd j for, the quality always improves in descending. It would hence appear, that the actual merit of our slates remains to be yet ascertained. Jn ope or two instances I have seen so great a difference between the surface and the slate at a little distance below it, as woiild encourage one to hope, that a deeper sinkage would produce very prime quality. Doctor Synge raised pome of great size and good description at Lislpe, and will probably hereafter be induced to continue his work. At present the business is in the bands of very poor and very ignorant operators.

    L

    Internet Archive statisticalsurv11socigoog, Chapter 86

52. Turf and timber below low tide on Cork coast

    Cork · city · Cork

    The author cites the presence of turf and timber found on many parts of the Cork coast beyond the limits of the lowest tide as evidence that the sea has encroached and elevated over formerly dry land. This local phenomenon is used to argue against theories that the sea is receding.

    Read the passage

    of human industry is necessary to preserve its acquisitions, and that, -without a sedulous attention to embankments, the sea would soon regain its property, at least in many of the places now possessed by man. It should also be observed, that the ocean frequently imposes limits on it? own progress by those mounds of sand and gravel, thrown up in storms. The total loss and destruction of the Goodwin estate, now past the power of man to retrieve, affords a strong argument in favour of the contrary opinion, which receives further confirmation from a well known fact in this county, that turf and timber are found on many parts of the coast beyond the limits of the lowest tide. How this can be accounted for on any other principle than the encroachment and elevation of the sea, I am at a loss to conceive. Dr. Darwin observes, that a constant increase, of calcarebus matter is generated in the ocean from the production of corals and shellfish, which one might suppose would have a tendency to raise its waters by occupying so much of its space. He, however, draws a different conclusion, and supposes that i$s waters are diminishing from the quantity absorbed by the calcareous composition. As the life of man is too short to determine the point, it is a subject, on which doctors will long continue to differ.

    Whatever

    Internet Archive statisticalsurv11socigoog, Chapter 22

53. Westwood demesne at Mill-street on the Blackwater

    Millstreet · town · Cork

    Westwood, the principal seat near Mill-street, was the property of John Wallis, Esq. It was an extensive demesne situated on the Blackwater river, richly adorned with timber, and benefited from access to limestone, the staple manure of the area.

    Read the passage

    garden, in which was also contained the pleasure ground.* The form land, however, was often well divided with very substantial and strong hedges. Shrubberies, gravelled walks, and greater variety of plantation are now considered as necessary appendages to every house of better description. Many new seats have lately made their appearance, particularly on approaching towards Cork, where they are too numerous for particular description* The principal of the more removed seats are those belonging to Sir Robert Warren and family, RU chard T. Rye, Esq. and further on towards Macromp, those of Robert Hedges Eyre, Esq. the Massy family, and others. Many of these are handsome and well-planted demesnes. Near Mill-street the principal seat is Westwood, the property of John Wallis, Esq. an extensive demesne, situated on the Blackwater, and richly adorned with timber. It enjoys the convenience of limestone, the staple manure of this part of the country, and from which several parts of it are very remote. The neighbourhood of Mill-street, surrounded for the

    most

    Internet Archive statisticalsurv11socigoog, Chapter 231

54. Mardyke walk formed for recreation but hard to reach

    Mardyke · electoral division · Cork

    The Mardyke walk is described as a very fine walk raised above the adjoining fields, planted on each side with shady elms, about an English mile in extent. It was formed years ago for the recreation of Cork's inhabitants but is useless to four-fifths of them for want of easy access from other parts of the city.

    Read the passage

    absolutely require the openiug of some new streets, and the new modelling of many places in this quarter. One of the most agreeable situations in the city is now almost lost, from the difficult and disagreeable means of access. A communication with the other parts of the town, by new and spacious streets, would render the west side a most eligible residence; it enjoys a purer atmosphere in consequence of its situation, and has the advantage of a very fine walk, considerably raised above the level of the adjoining fields, planted at each side with shady elms, and about an English mile in extent : this is called the Mardyke walk, and was formed many years ago for the recreation of the inhabitants, to four-fifths of whom it is altogether useless from wanting sufficient facility of approach.

    The enlargement of Patrick-street, and the new bridge at the end of it, afford one, and at present the only good and handsome entrance to the city. The erection of this bridge has encouraged the building of many excellent houses on the north side of the river, which has lately become one of the most fashi- .onable places of residence. The abolition of the ,tolls, to take place as soon as the cost of building it is defrayed, an event which is shortly expected, will contribute still more to the improvement of this quarter. The rapidity of its advancement may be 4u2 com*

    Internet Archive statisticalsurv11socigoog, Chapter 246

55. Mr. Webb's model farm at Blarney

    near Blarney · townland · Cork

    Charles St. John Jeffries introduced an English farmer named Mr. Webb, nephew of the celebrated Elkington, to cultivate a large farm at Blarney using modern husbandry techniques. Webb was particularly distinguished for his skill in draining, and his performances were recommended for visiting and examination.

    Read the passage

    great service to the country by the introduction of an English farmer, (Mr. Webb) whose skill and judgment have been variously displayed, and who cultivates a large farm at Blarney in the best style of modern husbandry. The art of agriculture is now so generally understood by all reading farmers, that it seems unnecessary to enter into the details of every experienced agriculturist's practice. Respecting

    OF THE COUNTY OF CORK. *75

    Internet Archive statisticalsurv11socigoog, Chapter 238

56. Proposed canal from Inishannon to Dunmanway

    Innishannon · town · Cork

    The passing of an Act of Parliament for inland navigation revived an old idea, conceived decades earlier, to build a canal from Inishannon to Dunmanway. The author offered to act for the locals who were anxious for the project to proceed.

    Read the passage

    informed what steps had been taken towards accomplishing the long talked of canal, which was proposed to be made in this part of the country, and how far it appeared that such a thing was practicable, I beg leave to acquaint you that, immediately on passing the Act of Parliament for the general encouragement of inland navigation in Ireland, and a grant of five hundred thousand pounds to be give4 in aid of such undertakings of this kind as should be approved of by Government, the old idea, that bad been conceived sixty or seventy years ago, of making a canal from the tide water at Inishannoa up to Dunmanway was revived, and the people in general through all this part of the country seemed extremely anxious, that some proceedings should take place on the subject I therefore stepped forward #nd offered to become the acting person, as, for wantjof such, no step was ever taken towards effecting it before, although it was thought of so

    many

    Internet Archive statisticalsurv11socigoog, Chapter 273

57. Naval arsenal removed from Kinsale

    Kinsale · town · Cork

    The naval arsenal was removed from Kinsale to Cove, a key factor in Cove's rise as a permanent naval station and in Kinsale's relative decline as a military port.

    Read the passage

    trict, was, till within a late period, a poor village, * affording some little accommodation to such ships as remained in the harbour, but principally inhabited by fishermen. The time of war was always its time of harvest, in consequence of fleets assembling there for convoy, and king's ships occasionally visiting the harbour. It has now become the fixed station of a port admiral, and in consequence of the removal of the arsenal from Kinsale, and the erection of many strong fortifications, enjoys a permanence of profitable establishment, which peace will certainly impair, but not, as formerly, destroy. The principal proprietors are Lerd Middleton, and the representatives of the late Hugh Smith Barry, Esq. both possessing very large estates in this county. New and spacious streets have been lately built, chiefly on Lord Middleton's part; and on that of Mr. Barry a beautiful and extensive quay, of very difficult con- , struction from the steep and rocky nature of the shore. It is supposed to have cost near twenty thousand pounds. Cove has also a new church and Roman Catholic chapel, contains a great number of inhabitants, some of whom are very wealthy, and is upon the whole in a state of very rapid advancement

    • In the charter of Middleton, granted by Charles tbe second, and enumerating all Lord Middleton's estates in this quarter, do mention is made of a town at Core.

    Internet Archive statisticalsurv11socigoog, Chapter 210

58. Paper mill and woollen manufactory at Fermoy

    Fermoy · townland · Cork

    Besides the great bolting mill, Fermoy also had a paper mill of considerable extent and a coarse woollen manufactory showing promising progress. These enterprises were expected to be of considerable utility to the surrounding country.

    Read the passage

    cheon, one on the Awbeg, and one on the Blackwater. It had been long considered impossible to find a mill-site in this last river so frequently flooded, bat experience has shewn the futility of this opinion. The bolting mill at Fermoy, the property of Mr. D. Reid, is, perhaps^ the first in point of size and power in Ireland ; it annually manufactures from 1 2 tq i 5,000 barrels of wheat per atinum, in a manner far surpassing any thing known in this country before its commencement in 1 802. The flout of this miH sells, at least, three shillings per hundred weight dearer than that of any other mill in the •neighbourhood. There is likewise a pajter mill at Fermoy, of considerable extent, aftd considerable progress has been tnade in a coarse woollen manufactory, which promises to be of considerable Utility to the country.** Size of Farms, &c. — 'Most farms in this county

    / are small, from 50 to 100 acres, and generally on short leases, seldom exceeding three lives; but latterly only one life or twenty-one years is a common lease. Parliamentary influence is very much looked

    Internet Archive statisticalsurv11socigoog, Chapter 161

59. Timoleague and Abbeymahon abbeys supplied by Coolmain quarries

    Timoleague · town · Cork

    The author surmises that the neighbouring abbeys of Timoleague and Abbeymahon were built using stone from the Coolmain quarries, linking these medieval religious foundations to local building resources.

    Read the passage

    xions. Mr. Stawell deserves honourable mention for the general stile of his farming, which is found* ed on approved principles, and conducted with judgment and spirit. There are some pretty and improved spots on the north side, near Kinsale river, where the soil seems to be of better quality than in most other places. Coolmain affords a good argillaceous freestone for building, some of which was used in the octagon at Courtmasherry. It is not improbable, that the neighbouring abbeys of Timoleague and Abbeymahon were supplied from the same quarries. The southern cliffs afford abundance of good slate, occasionally sent to Cork and Kinsale in the summer months. The well known promontory, called the old head of Kinsale, projects from the eastern part of this barony. It is much the longest of all our headlands, and, being furnished with a good light-house, forms a material point of direction for the harbour of Cork and Kinsale. Near the outer extremity stand the ruins of a castle, easily defensible against a large force from the narrowness, of the approach. Situations of this nature, devoid of every recommendation, save the single one of defensibility, were never overlooked, and they give a melancholy picture of the state of the times, in which they were built. As ruins, they have doubtless a fine effect, partly arising from their

    own

    Internet Archive statisticalsurv11socigoog, Chapter 130

60. Water-filled hollows near Murragh on the Bandon river

    Murragh · townland · Cork

    On the north side of the river Bandon near Murragh, hollows of similar form but much greater extent than those at Magourney are observed, always filled with water despite being in deep gravelly soil. Many smaller lakes in the county share this shape and probable natural origin.

    Read the passage

    form bespeaks the hand of art, but they are ia reality the work of nature, though in what manner produced it is not easy to explain. Their situation is rather on low than high ground, nor is. there any appearance of burnt matter about them to support .their claim to volcanic origin. Besides, the ejection of a crater would necessarily cause an elevation round the mouth, and the margin of these ii on a level with the rest of the field. They see» to be rather the result of depression, occasioned by the subsidence of the supporting base. Such appearances in limestone land would create less surprise from the frequency of cavities in calcareous rock. These are situated in a coarse argillaceous soil, which is always observed to rest upon a firm and solid basis. On the north side of the . river Bandon, near Moragh, I have noticed hollows of similar form but much greater extent, which are always filled with water, though in a deep gravelly soil. Many of the smaller lakes in this county are of the same shape, and have probably originated from the same natural cause.

    Internet Archive statisticalsurv11socigoog, Chapter 227