St. Patrick's Purgatory, Lough Derg : its history, traditions, legends, antiquities, topography and scenic surroundings with some account of its more notable pilgrims and a detailed description of the authorised devotions performed at its venerable shrine

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. Lough Derg as a sacred pilgrimage site

   near Lough Derg · lake or lakes · Donegal

   A reviewer describes Lough Derg as a locality drawing thousands of fervid pilgrims year by year. It is noted as both a feature in Irish geography and a sacred spot in Irish ecclesiastical history.

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   “This little volume deals with one of the most interesting spots in our country. Apart from the beauty of the place itself, one cannot but regard with a feeling warmer than that of mere curiosity, a locality which has drawn to it year by year thousands of fervid pilgrims. Lough Derg is not only a feature in Irish geography, it is also a sacred spot in Irish ecclesi¬ astical history . . . Father O’Connor has done his work well, and having read his book with pleasure, we may predict for it the position of a classic in the literature of Irish pilgrimages.” — Belfast MorTtmg News, 14th Feb. 1879.

   “ The Rev. Daniel O’Connor, C.C., priest of the diocese of Clogher, the author of this most interesting, instructive, and edifying book, and the enterprising and respectable publisher, who has brought it out in such excellent style, have really conferred a most essential service on the read¬ ing public. Devout Catholics of all countries, but more especially Irish Catholics, and the lovers of antiquarian studies in general, will feel the greatest interest and satisfaction in the perusal of its full and accurate accounts of the world-renowned sanctuaries of religion which are so admirably sketched and illustrated in this well-written, historical and descriptive compilation. Father O’Connor deserves the greatest credit for thus supplying a desideratum, which has long been felt in the want of a carefully compiled hand-book of the Pilgrimage of Lough Derg ; and we

   Internet Archive stpatrickspurgat00ocon, Chapter 4

2. Rev. John Donnelly of Aghalurcher takes chalice to America

   near Aghalurcher · parish · Fermanagh · 1850

   In 1850 the Donegal Convent chalice associated with Lough Derg was taken to America by Rev. John Donnelly, whose native place adjoined the ancient churchyard of Aghalurcher in Fermanagh. After his death it passed through several hands before being presented to Monsignor Stephens of Killybegs.

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   As the Donegal Convent at this time supplied a large proportion of the priests who ministered to the Lough Derg pilgrims, we may infer that they brought with them each season the necessary vestments and altar plate, and hence we may take it that the chalice referred to had been used in the celebration of the Divine Mysteries on Lough Derg. In 1850 it was taken to America by the Kev. John Donnelly, whose native place adjoined the ancient church¬ yard of Aghalurcher, in Fermanagh. At his death it came into the possession of Rev. Edward McGowan of Penn Yann, who presented it to Monsignor Stephens of Killybegs, the author of the handbook above named.

   Another of the Lough Derg chalices is that long pre¬ served in use at Corduff chapel, parish of Carrickmacross. It was a votive offering made to the sanctuary of Lough Derg by a lady, named Clara Nugent, alias Cusack, of Carlanstown, in the county of Meath. She was closely

   Internet Archive stpatrickspurgat00ocon, Chapter 113

3. Seven churches of Glendalough

   Glendalough · electoral division · Wicklow

   Glendalough is cited among the notable Irish religious foundations that had a group of 'seven churches,' paralleling those at Clonmacnoise, Tory Island, and Lough Derg.

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   been dedicated to him, and was known as St. Fintan’s Island. Whether this saint was the same as St. Fintan of Clonenagh, we cannot determine. By looking into Festilogies of Irish saints, we find that St. Fintan is a very common name, there being no less than seventeen saints of that name recorded in the Martyrology of Tallagh. We know that St. Fintan of Clonenagh passed his novitiate under St. Columba, son of Crimthan, who had a school at Tyrdaglass, near Lough Derg on the Shannon. It may have been, indeed, that the similarity in the names of these lakes gave rise to a mistake. At St. Fintan’s Monas¬ tery of Clonenagh were “seven churches,” which were first brought under notice by the Bev. John O’Hanlon. At Lough Derg in Donegal were also “ seven churches,” and they are represented at the present day by seven oratories, or penal beds, dedicated to seven of the tutelary saints of the pilgrimage. This mysterious group of seven churches would appear to have belonged to the most notable of the religious foundations in Ireland, and would seem to have been a favourite institution in our country. Thus we read of the seven churches of Clonmacnoise, of Tory Island, of Glendalough, not to speak of many others. In other countries, too, the same feature is recorded ; as, for instance, the seven churches, which clustered together at Bologna, under the name of San Stefano. But whether they had each a separate ecclesiastical government is another question.

   The late Bev. Dr. Kelly, of Maynooth, the learned annotator of Gamhrensis Eversus, tells us in his notes to that work : —

   Internet Archive stpatrickspurgat00ocon, Chapter 44

4. Sounds and atmosphere of Station Island pilgrimage

   near Station Island · townland · Donegal

   The tolling island bell, the trumpet announcing the ferry-boat, and the murmuring waves on the stony beach create feelings of awe and reverence among pilgrims at Station Island, Lough Derg. The island's monastic buildings and churches were demolished in times of persecution, though recent years have seen new structures including a Hospice.

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   The tolling of the island bell, summoning the pilgrims to the various Station exercises, the sound of the trumpet as it announces the departure of the ferry-boat, the mur¬ muring of the waves upon the stony beach, the solitude, desolation, and surroundings of the place, — ‘‘ All kindle in the soul feelings of awe and reverence, and fill it with a keener sense of the power of God, and of the strict account which He will require of each one, when his brief term of life is brought to a close,” writes the distinguished anno¬ tator of the Monasticon Hibernicon.

   Seeing the peculiar efficacy of the exercises of this pil¬ grimage towards renewing and increasing the spiritual life, the sanctity of the place, and the graces and indul¬ gences there received, what wonder is it that the eye of the pilgrim is charmed, his heart elevated, his faith en¬ livened, nay, even his love for holy Ireland increased, when first the Island of Lough Derg meets his view ? And what wonder is it that the Irish people should so love this Sanctuary? We love it on account of its association with the name of our National Apostle ; on account of the number of saints, who here practised the Gospel counsels of perfection, and whose names are in benediction in the Irish Church ; we love it because of the traditions, which enshrine it in the Irish heart ; because of the numberless sinners here reconciled to God, and who here “chose the better part;” and finally, we love it for the numberless graces here received, and the blessings it is the means of obtaining for its numerous votaries, and because it excites in us lofty desires of becoming more holy.

   Internet Archive stpatrickspurgat00ocon, Chapter 155

5. St. Bridget's Bed penitential cell

   near Lough Derg · lake or lakes · Donegal

   St. Bridget's Bed is the penitential cell nearest to St. Mary's Church on the island. Pilgrims perform circuits both outside and inside the bed, kneeling at its entrance and at the cross inside, reciting Paters, Aves, and Creeds at each stage.

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   He next proceeds to the penitential cell or “ Bed” nearest to St. Mary’s Church, called “ St. Bridget’s Bed,” and says three Paters, three Aves, and one Creed, whilst thrice making the circuit of this Bed on the outside. The same prayers are re¬ peated while kneeling outside the entrance of the “ Bed ; ” the same repeated while making three circuits of it on the inside ; and the same prayers are repeated while kneeling at the Cross inside the Bed.

   The same penitential exercises are performed successively at St. Brendan’s Bed, St. Catherine’s, and St. Columba’s.

   Internet Archive stpatrickspurgat00ocon, Chapter 136

6. St. Colman of Dromore advised by St. MacNisse

   near Dromore · town · Down

   St. Colman, first Bishop of Dromore, sought counsel from St. MacNisse, bishop of Connor, regarding where to found a monastery. MacNisse advised him to build in the territory of Campus Coba (the plain of Coba).

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   That St. Colman, first Bishop of Dromore, profited largely by his counsel and training, we learn from the following passage taken from his life by the Bollandists, at the 7th of June: — Deinde saepe venerabilem Macnyseum Conderensem episcopum petiit, qui hospitum praesciens adventum, eis necessaria jussit pn'aepararL Ille itaque illuc perveniens, in omni hilaritate suscepfus est ; ibique paucis diebus mansit. Deinde, inito concilio, venerabilem senem ubi locum serviendi Deo f undare deberet, consulit. Qui respondit : voluntas Dei est ut in finibus Campi Coba Ubi construas monasteriumP

   St. MacNisse died on the 3rd of September, 514. He is commemorated in the “Feilire” of St. Aengus thus : —

   Internet Archive stpatrickspurgat00ocon, Chapter 52

7. St. Dabheoc visited Bishop Eoghan's school at Ardstraw

   Ardstraw · townland · Tyrone

   Rev. John Francis Shearman notes that St. Dabheoc, in extreme old age, paid frequent visits to Bishop Eoghan's seminary at Ardstraw, which he could do owing to the proximity of his retreat at Lough Derg. St. Kevin was also a student at this school.

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   That the place became famous as a hermitage and place of penance long anterior to the time of the Abbot Patrick is sufficiently clear from this fact alone, that the names of two, probably three, of its abbots are on record (St. Dabheoc, St. Cillene, and St. Avil or Abel), who governed it in earlier times. As to St. Dabheoc,* Colgao says St. Patrick left him at Lough Derg, in Donegal, in charge of a church, which in subsequent ages became famed as the Purgatory of St. Patrick. And the Rev. John Francis Shearman, *in his learned work, styled Loca Patriciana, says, “ that Colgan’s statement about Dabheoc is well-founded ; for, when St. Kevin was at the school of his relative. Bishop Eoghan of Ardstra, St. Dabheoc, or Bioc, then in extreme old age, paid frequent visits to this - seminary ” at Ardstraw, which he could easily do, owing to the proximity of his retreat at Lough Derg. Hence, while the weight of authority forces us to infer that this penitential retreat was originated by St. Patrick, it may be said that his disciple St. Dabheoc, by his severe penances and austerities, imparted great celebrity to this retreat and further attraction to its pilgrimage.

   Of him Colgan writes : — He is called Dahheocus in general, and often Beoanus in Latin. He is the patron of a very celebrated church in a certain lake in Ulster, called Loch-Gerg, in which is that celebrated Purgatory of St. Patrick, whence either the lake itself, or the place in which it lies, is called Gleann-Gerc, where in the adjacent country

   Internet Archive stpatrickspurgat00ocon, Chapter 28

8. St. Mary's Church on Station Island through demolitions and restorations

   near Station Island · townland · Donegal

   St. Mary's Church on Station Island was the only church of the pilgrimage for a long period, maintaining its position through successive demolitions and restorations on or about the site of the present St. Mary's. St. Patrick's or 'Prison Chapel' was not erected until the narrow vault called the Cavevna Purgatorii was discontinued.

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   The church here spoken of is St. Mary’s Church, which, between demolitions and restorations, always maintained its position on Station Island, and on or about the site of the present St. Mary’s. At that time it was the only church of the pilgrimage, as St. Patrick’s, or “ Prison Chapel,” was not erected for many years after, and not until the narrow vault, called the Gavevna Purgatorii, was discontinued as the place of vigil and meditation.

   Six years after the second demolition of the Purgatory, Henrietta Maria, Queen of Charles I. of England, wrote a letter to the ill-fated Lord Stafford, who was then Lord Deputy, asking him to use his best efforts to allow the devotion of St. Patrick’s Purgatory to be no longer dis¬ allowed, that such a favour on his part would give her great satisfaction, and that he would hUve no reason to repent of having done her so great a service. In the letter the Queen adds that she commissioned the Earl of Antrim to treat with him on the subject, and she concludes by reminding him how grateful she would be on every occasion for such a particular favour. The letter, which is very interesting, will be found in the Ulster Journal of Archaeology, and is well worthy of reproduction.

   Internet Archive stpatrickspurgat00ocon, Chapter 104

9. St. Patrick's Altar at Station Island

   near Station Island · townland · Donegal

   An oratory or chapel raised by Anthony O'Flaherty may have marked 'St. Patrick's Altar', which according to Hewson and others stood at the northern end of Station Island.

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   above inscription was the titulus of the church erected by Friar Anthony O’Doherty; and that the stone first noticed in this chapter was erected in a wing attached to the church, and used as a dwelling by the officiating clergy¬ men ; whilst the inscription commemorating Anthony O’Flaherty may have marked an oratory or chapel raised by him over ‘‘ St. Patrick’s Altar,”* which, according to H ewson and others, stood at the northern end of Station Island.

   The purgatorial cave down to the year 1780 was, accord¬ ing to Richardson, “10 feet distant from the church; it was 22 feet long, 2 feet 1 inch wide, and 3 feet high. It hath a bending within six feet of the far end, where there is a very small window, or spike-hole, to let in some light and air to the pilgrims that are shut up in it. There is little or none of it under ground, and it seems never to have been sunk deeper than the rock. It is built of stone and clay, huddled together, covered with broad stones, and all overlaid with earth.” This cave was closed up about the year 1780 f by the prior, who considered it insufficient for the number of persons who sought admission to it. A new church, 72 feet long by 24 wide, called St. Patrick’s Church, or “ Prison Chapel,” so called from the fact that it was intended to supersede and serve the purpose of the ancient purgatorial cave, was built about that time.

   Internet Archive stpatrickspurgat00ocon, Chapter 115

10. Ware's map of Station Island features

    near Station Island · townland · Donegal · 1654

    Sir James Ware's 1654 map of Station Island marked a cruciform Regies church on the site of old St. Mary's, St. Patrick's Cross, the Caverna near the present campanile, and various beds dedicated to saints including Brigid, Catherine, Columba, Brendan, and Patrick. Seven lodging booths were also shown around the island's margin.

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    On Sir James Ware’s map are marked the Regies, or Church — a cruciform building, the exact model, and on the site, of the old St. Mary’s Church ; St. Patrick’s Cross, a little to the north of it, about twenty-five paces south of its present site ; the Caverna, near it to the left, where the present campanile stands ; circulus vel lectus S. Brigidce^ lectus S. CatJierince, S. Golumhoe, S. Brendani, lectulus S. Ahogi et Molasri et Sti. Patricii ; and there are also seven little booths, or lodging-houses represented round the margin of the island.

    It would appear that the place of pilgrimage on Lough Derg, although territorial!}^ surrounded by the parish of Templecarne, formed in itself a distinct and separate juris¬ diction from a very remote period. Originally, indeed, the community at Lough Derg may have ministered to the spiritual wants of the district known as Termon MacGrath ; but in the thirteenth or fourteenth century, a parish church was erected at Templecarne, and a pastor, it may be supposed, was placed in charge of the benefice, thus leaving the monks undivided charge of the monastery and of the pilgrimage. That this conjecture is well

    Internet Archive stpatrickspurgat00ocon, Chapter 82

11. Augustinian houses at Devenish, Lisgoole and Clones

    Devenish · townland · Fermanagh · 1632

    After their expulsion from Lough Derg, the monks presumably proceeded to Devenish, Lisgoole, and Clones, where houses of their Augustinian order flourished. These places had guest-houses or hospices that for centuries were largely occupied by Lough Derg pilgrims.

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    however, determined to remain at their post, and calmly to await the consequences. In the meantime, familiar as they now were with such hostile visitations, they made ready for the worst, having first secreted in a safe hidingplace in the ground the more cumbrous articles of value, reserving for removal only such articles as they might bring with them without attracting the notice of the greedy soldiery. At length, after a night of sorrow and suspense, the morning of their expulsion dawned ; and as the day advanced, a company of cavalry from Donegal was descried proceeding over the mountains, and ad¬ vancing quickly towards the lake. In the most summary way they ordered the venerable abbot and his com¬ munity, which consisted of forty monks — “ all fine, able men” (as my informant interposed), to take their de¬ parture. A detachment of soldiers was directed to escort the monks as far as Portcreevy Bay, to make sure of their departure, and to prevent them from being eye-witnesses of the ruthless destruction about to befal their consecrated abode. The afflicted monks, having taken their last fare¬ well of Lough Derg, proceeded, we may suppose, to Devenish, Lisgoole, and Clones, where flourished houses of their order, and where stood guest-houses or hospices, which for centuries were largely occupied by Lough Derg pilgrims.

    As the “Abuse of Pilgrimage” (to use the phrase of the persecuting Government of that time,) still continued to flourish, the Lords Justices issued more stringent orders, on the 13th September of the same year, to have it com¬ pletely destroyed : —

    Internet Archive stpatrickspurgat00ocon, Chapter 90

12. Branch roadway to Termon Cross on Drumawark hill

    Drumawark · townland · Donegal

    A branch line of the ancient roadway led from the Owenea river by Tamlaght to the Termon Cross on Drumawark hill, forming part of the network of routes connecting to the Lough Derg pilgrimage site.

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    along the western shore of the lake, the waves, even more effectively, have destroyed almost every vestige of it.* Traces of this roadway can be clearly observed on the summit of Portneillinmore hill (which rises close to Saints’ Island), also in a few places along the shore of the lake, particularly at Portcreevy bay, where it quitted the shore and led on through a mountain valley towards Templecarne and Pettigo. From the main route a branch line led off to where the present wooden bridge spans the Owenea river, and on by Tamlaght to the Termon Cross on Drumawark hill. At certain parts of this roadway, I have been informed, on the cutting away of the overlying surface of peat, large stepping stones, arranged in regular order, have been brought to light, thus confirming the name by which O’Donovan terms it, viz., a via strata.

    At the southern side of Saints’ Island, a narrow neck of water separates the island from the mainland ; and here, during the time the monastery stood on Saints’ Island, a bridge formed of oaken beams, and resting on stone piers, connected the island with the mainland. Of this bridge Dr. O’Donovan writes in his Donegal Letters: —

    Internet Archive stpatrickspurgat00ocon, Chapter 47

13. 'Carry-mouth': local name for river Derg outlet

    near Lough Derg · lake or lakes · Donegal

    The outlet of the river Derg from Lough Derg was known locally as the 'carry-mouth.' In dry seasons or when this outlet was free from impediments, the ledge of rock around the Hospice was dry land, a fact relevant to the later legal dispute over ownership.

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    The prior had not proceeded far in his preparations for erecting the Hospice, when he found indications of the coming storm, which threatened to burst upon his devoted head. In making ready the foundations he at one particular corner protruded somewhat on the bed of the lake. The landlord, who claimed a right of ownership not only in the lough, but even in the island, resented this. In vain would it be to show that in certain dry seasons, or when “ the carrymouth” (as the outlet of the river Derg is termed), is free from impediments, the ledge of rock all round the Hospice is terra firma. Hor would it anywise extenuate the fault to represent that, owing to the limited area of the site, hemmed in on one side by the lough, and on the other by the penal cells or circles, this particular encroachment on

    Station Island, Lough Derg, 1886,

    Internet Archive stpatrickspurgat00ocon, Chapter 146

14. Confiscation of Termon-Dabheoc church lands

    Termon · townland · Donegal · 1300–1596

    Termon-Dabheoc, comprising 30,000 acres valued at £8,500 per annum, was church land conferred upon the religious community of St. Dabheoc at Lough Derg. The Magraths became termoners in the fourteenth century, and Donagh Magrath surrendered the lands to Queen Elizabeth in her 38th year.

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    E have already seen that the property conferred by our pious ancestors upon the religious community of St. Dabheoc at Lough Derg was known for many centuries under the name of Termon-Dabheoc. Its area comprised 30,000 acres, and it was valued hy Griffith at <£8,500 per annum. About the fourteenth century, the Magraths having become termoners of those church lands, it came to be known as Termon- Magrath. In the 38th year of Queen Elizabeth, Donagh Magrath, chieftain of Termon-Magrath, and his eldest son, Milerius, the apostate Franciscan friar, surrendered to the Queen the lands of Termon-Magrath and Termon- O’Mongan for the purpose of reducing the lands to English tenure, and with intent that they should be regranted to Donagh for life, with remainder to Miler, and to Miler’s sons in succession. In the same year they were so granted.* In the year 1604 the site of the monastery of Lough Derg, and the lands of Termon- Magrath with other estates, were granted by James I. to Robert Leicester.! In 1610, Termon-Magrath and Termon-O’Mongan were conferred upon James Magrath,

    * Vide Morrin’s Calendar, Vol. 2, pp. 361-362. t See Erck’s Patent Rolls, p. 107.

    Internet Archive stpatrickspurgat00ocon, Chapter 107

15. Dissolution of the Priory of Lough Derg

    near Lough Derg · lake or lakes · Donegal · 1603

    An Inquisition taken at Donegal in 1603 records that the Augustinian priory on an island in Lough Derg, about fifteen miles from the village of Donegal, was in decay and had been abandoned and dissolved. The document describes an old ruined church and stone walls levelled, with the island containing about ten acres and adjacent lands called Termon-Magrath and Termon-M'Monghan.

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    “ In the parts of Ulster, near the territory called O’Donnell’s countrie, are the walls and monuments of a certain monastery, or priory, late house of the Canonical Friars, called the Priory of Lochdarge, alias commonly called St. Patrick’s Purgatory, which priory now is very much on the decay, and has these many years past been totally abandoned and dissolved. The aforesaid priory lies and is situate in a certain small island in the middle of a lake, called Lochdarge, about fifteen miles from the village of Donnagall aforesaid. The prior of the monastery aforesaid, at the time of the dissolution and abandoning aforesaid, was seized as of fee, in right of the priory aforesaid, of the site, circuit, ambit, and precinct of the said late house, with the appurtenances, in which are an old church very ruin¬ ous, and walls of stone lately levelled, with small piece of land circumjacent, containing one and a half acres of land; and of the whole island aforesaid, containing about ten acres ; and of certain lands and hereditaments to the said house and island adjacent, called Termon-Magrath and Termon-M'Monghan, containing four quarters of the great measure.”

    That the absence of the Augustinians was but tem¬ porary, and consequent upon the persecution setting in against this stronghold of Catholic piety, we may infer from the testimony of Dr. Lombard, already quoted, as also from the report of Sir William Stewart, who found there, in 1632, an abbot and forty friars. From the fore¬ going document we can easily understand how the English garrison in Ireland, well aware of the King’s hostility to the Catholic religion, testified their zeal for the work, of

    Internet Archive stpatrickspurgat00ocon, Chapter 87

16. Lough Derg as a pan-Irish pilgrimage sanctuary

    near Lough Derg · lake or lakes · Donegal

    Lough Derg's 'Holy Island' is described as a central meeting-place for the Irish diaspora, drawing pilgrims from America, England, Scotland, Australia, New Zealand and beyond. Devotions are conducted in English, though prayers are still offered in Irish, and about one-third of each year's pilgrims are repeat visitors.

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    Of the Lough Derg pilgrims the great majority are Irish, or of Irish extraction. A great many come from America, many from England and Scotland, and not a few from Australia, New Zealand, and the other distant eolonies, in a word from wherever the exiled Celt has found a foothold. The sanctuary of Lough Derg would seem to be a central meeting-place for the Irish, whither they journey from the most distant regions, to renew themselves in the faith and virtues so characteristic of their race, and to keep vigil, to fast and pray at the “ Holy Island.” Occasionally pilgrims of foreign nation¬ alities kneel before the shrine and pour forth their prayers in strange tongues. The devotions are now con¬ ducted in the English language, yet before this sanctuary many a prayer is still offered up in ‘‘ the sweet-tongued language of the Gael.”

    Instances are numerous, where persons, drawn by the holy attractions of the place, repeat the pilgrimage year after year. Mr. Nicholson, already mentioned, came here annually for fifty-six years. A worthy Belfast man, Mr. Henry, with an organised band of pilgrims, made a yearly pilgrimage for at least fifty years. Many others will be met with who have been there twenty or thirty

    Internet Archive stpatrickspurgat00ocon, Chapter 129

17. Nicholson's lithographic sketch of Station Island

    near Station Island · townland · Donegal · 1871–1873

    In 1871, Edward Nicholson of Manchester obtained permission to sketch Station Island and had lithographic prints struck off at his own expense by MacGregor & Co. in 1873. He presented the lithographs and blocks to the bishop for the island's benefit. Copies were procurable on the island.

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    to), then of Manchester, obtained permission to take a sketch of the island, and to have at his own expense lithographic prints of it struck off. The work was exe¬ cuted in 1873 by the firm of MacGregor & Co., Man¬ chester. The lithographs, together with the lithographic blocks, were presented by Mr. Nicholson to the bishop of the diocese, for the benefit of the island. The sketch in question, copies of which are procurable on the island, is furnished with a reference table in the margin, which serves the triple purpose of a map, guide, and pictorial representation of Station Island. It represents, though in a fanciful and embellished way, the two churches on the island, St. Patrick’s and St. Mary’s ; the Campanile ; St. Patrick’s Cross; the penitential beds, or oratories, dedi¬ cated to Saints Dabheoc, Molaise, Columba, Catherine, Brendan and Brigid ; the stations at the water ; the presbytery ; the six cabins ; and the boat-quay. Even the solitary sycamore* (the arms of which in pre-campanile days served the purpose of a belfry,) is accurately deline¬ ated on the drawing. Mr. William Wakeman also pub¬ lished a fine water colour sketch of Station Island, taken in 1876, showing the pilgrims’ boat on its passage ; and again, in 1882, he took a very accurate sketch of it, his point of view being Friars’ Island. In this sketch the new Hospice for pilgrims is clearly outlined.

    It would appear that the Station season at Lough Derg during the last century opened on the 1st of May, and

    Internet Archive stpatrickspurgat00ocon, Chapter 134

18. Owen dwells at Cistercian abbey of Louth after pilgrimage

    Louth · town · Louth · 1153

    After his pilgrimage to St. Patrick's Purgatory, the Knight Owen returned and lived at the Cistercian abbey of the Blessed Virgin Mary at Louth, where he recounted the joys and pains he had witnessed. His narrative was recorded by Gilbert, a monk of that abbey.

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    Worde’s “Polychronicon,” published at Westminster in 1495, thus : — “ In this Steven’s tyme a Knight that hyght Owen wente into the Purgatory of the second Patrick, abbot, and not byshoppe. He came agayne and dwelled in the abbaye of Ludene of Whyte Monks in

    Irlonde, and tolde of joye and of paynes that he had seen.” The MS.

    Internet Archive stpatrickspurgat00ocon, Chapter 58

19. Panoramic view from Drumawark hill

    Drumawark · townland · Donegal

    From Drumawark hill, pilgrims obtained their first glimpse of Lough Derg. The view encompasses Lough Erne from Enniskillen to Belleek, the monastic buildings of Devenish are visible, and beacon lights could formerly signal between this point and Lough Derg.

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    As to the view from Drumawark, nothing can be finer. From its hill the first glimpse of Lough Derg was ob¬ tained by the travel-stained pilgrim. A view of Lough Erne, extending from Enniskillen to Belleek, can be had from it. The monastic buildings of Devenish are clearly in sight, and, of old, signals by beacon lights could be easily kept up from it with Lough Derg. Magrath’s Castle, near Pettigo, the residence of the hereditary

    * On the night of this vandal outrage, certain persons, half a mile to the south of Drumawark, observed a light at “The Standing Stone,” and the strokes of the sledge-hammer were distinctly heard by several. Those in the locality entirely exonerate from all complicity in the act the tenant of the farm on which the monument stood, but suspicion founded on circumstantial grounds points to the perpetrators of the dastardly deed.

    Internet Archive stpatrickspurgat00ocon, Chapter 40

20. Pilgrim route from Castlederg through the Derg valley

    near Castlederg · town · Tyrone

    The road from Castlederg to Killeter and beyond passes through the valley of the River Derg, rich alluvial lands, and undulating moorlands remarkable for scenery. This route served pilgrims from Derry, Tyrone, and part of Donegal travelling to Lough Derg.

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    “ What was a matter of peril and much labour in the Middle Ages is easy of access at the present day. The Castiederg and Victoria Bridge Tramway, which is in connection with the rail¬ road from Derry, will convey the Lough Derg pilgrims to Castiederg, a distance of ten Irish miles from the shore of the lake. The road from Castiederg to Killeter, and for four miles further, passes through the valley of the Derg, and the rich alluvial lands skirting that river, and proceeds through undulating moorlands, remarkable for scenery. A new road, a mile and a half long, has been lately constructed, which will lead the pilgrims to within a few hundred yards of the lake.

    Internet Archive stpatrickspurgat00ocon, Chapter 131

21. Prior M'Kenna of Brookeborough connected to Lough Derg

    near Brookeborough · village · Fermanagh

    Very Rev. James Canon M'Kenna, P.P. of Brookeborough, served as Prior of Lough Derg and was long and intimately connected with the pilgrimage site. He provided key information about the possible reuse of the ancient cross shaft as a building lintel.

    Read the passage

    On Station Island may be seen the fragment of an ancient stone cross,^ a representation of which is included in the illustration of St. Patrick’s Cross given in this work. Mr. Wakeman, to whom is due the credit of being the first who bestowed more than a passing look at this important object, states that it is much older than St. Patrick’s Cross, and, judging from the style of art displayed on it, it must date as far back as the sixth or seventh century. This fragment belonged, in all likelihood, to St. Dabheoc’s Cross, and was primarily erected on Saints’ Island, probably at his grave. Only the head and arms of the cross now remain to us ; the shaft, which must have .measured about five feet, having been broken off close by the arms. The shaft is now nowhere to be sefen ; and we have been informed by the Prior, Very Rev. James Canon M‘Kenna, P.P., Brookeborough, a clergyman long and intimately connected with Lough Derg, that whilst

    * The measurements of this mutilated cross are — head, 1 foot ; arms, 1 foot 9 inches ; width of stone, 6 inches ; depth, 4 inches. At each of the four points of intersection there is a hollow cutting like the concave arc of a circle, which is but rarely found on old crosses, and only on those of the earliest date. The circle, instead of entwining the arms, as in the case of modern Celtic crosses, is raised in relief on the disc or space between the arms. In the absence of this clasping circle, it presents, together with the hollow cutting at each of the angles, a striking resemblance to the old cross of Kilbroney, near Rostrevor.

    Internet Archive stpatrickspurgat00ocon, Chapter 34

22. Rev. Mr. Hewson's description of Station Island

    near Station Island · townland · Donegal

    Rev. Mr. Hewson described Station Island in an earlier account, noting small trees about the ruins including a large half-withered tree (identified as the solitary sycamore), and fifteen small huts at the nearer end of the island for the reception of pilgrims.

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    * That there were some trees on the island during the last century, on that part of it now occupied by the Presbytery, would appear from the plate of the island to be found in Ledwich’s Antiquities of Ireland. And before him Rev. Mr. Hewson, writes: — “Some few small trees, and a large one, half withered ” (evidently this is the present solitary sycamore,) “are about the ruins, and fifteen small huts' in the nearer end of the island for the reception of pilgrims.”

    LoTKiH DekG

    Internet Archive stpatrickspurgat00ocon, Chapter 134

23. Sand boated from Trabane for Hospice

    Trabane · strand · Donegal · 1880

    Four thousand tons of sand used in constructing the Hospice at Lough Derg were boated across the lake from the shore at Trabane, meaning 'the white strand.' Most building stones were similarly collected from around the lake shore and islands.

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    It may interest many to learn that most of the stones used in the building were collected around the shore of the lake and islands j 10,000 tons of stones were thus provided, the boat used for the purpose carrying 4 tons in each load. 4,000 tons of sand were similarly boated across from the lake-shore at Trabane, i.e. the white strand ; 2,000 barrels of lime were also used in the building, and this was drawn from Pettigo. 100 tons of cut-stone were conveyed by train upwards of forty miles from the Brookeborough quarries. Many of the Protes¬ tant farmers of Templecarne parish assisted their Catholic neighbours in carting the materials for the Hospice from the railway station at Pettigo.

    The prior had not proceeded far in his preparations for erecting the Hospice, when he found indications of the coming storm, which threatened to burst upon his devoted head. In making ready the foundations he at one particular corner protruded somewhat on the bed of the lake. The landlord, who claimed a right of ownership not only in the lough, but even in the island, resented this. In vain would it be to show that in certain dry seasons, or when “ the carrymouth” (as the outlet of the river Derg is termed), is free from impediments, the ledge of rock all round the Hospice is terra firma. Hor would it anywise extenuate the fault to represent that, owing to the limited area of the site, hemmed in on one side by the lough, and on the other by the penal cells or circles, this particular encroachment on

    Internet Archive stpatrickspurgat00ocon, Chapter 146

    As the companion tells it

    You are right beside the strand at Trabane in Donegal. The name means the white strand, and from here four thousand tons of sand were boated across the lake for building the Hospice at Lough Derg. Most of the stones in that building were collected around the shore of the lake and its islands. Ten thousand tons of stones were gathered that way, the boat carrying four tons in each load. Two thousand barrels of lime were drawn from Pettigo. One hundred tons of cut-stone came by train more than forty miles from the Brookeborough quarries. Many Protestant farmers of Templecarne parish helped their Catholic neighbours cart the materials from the railway station at Pettigo. The prior had not gone far in his preparations before he saw the storm coming. While laying the foundations he protruded at one corner onto the bed of the lake. The landlord claimed ownership not only of the lough but of the island itself, and resented this. It was no use pointing out that in dry seasons, or when "the carry mouth," as the outlet of the river Derg is called, is free from impediments, the ledge of rock all round the Hospice is dry land. Nor did it help to say that the site was so limited, hemmed in on one side by the lough and on the other by the penal cells or circles, that this encroachment on the lake bed could not be avoided.

24. Station Island and its sacred landscape on Lough Derg

    near Station Island · townland · Donegal

    Station Island sits in Lough Derg as if floating, adorned with churches, a presbytery, a hospice, and other buildings. Crowds of pilgrims engage in devotional exercises while boats ferry pilgrims to and from the island, creating a solemn and sacred scene surrounded by mountains.

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    moorland, presents from all points of view a singularly unique and pleasing prospect. There, as if floating on the surface of its waters, sits Station Island, with its neat churches and presbytery, its handsome and commodious hospice, and the various other buildings, with which, in the distance, it seems to be completely occupied : whilst the picture is heightened by the crowds of ardent votaries, moving about on the island, engaged in their devotional exercises, and the boats plying hither and thither with their freight of coming or departing pilgrims. A sight so sacred and solemn, and so hovel to the beholder, is calcu¬ lated to make the deepest impression on his mind, and to call up in after-life the most pleasing memories. The view of mountain, lake and island, so harmoniously blended, fascinate the eye of the pilgrim. His step becomes, as it were, spell-bound ; for he instinctively feels that the island, which at length meets his gaze, is sacred ground : —

    “ So like a temple doth it stand, that there The heart’s first impulse is to prayer.”

    Internet Archive stpatrickspurgat00ocon, Chapter 22

25. Statue of Our Blessed Lady of Lough Derg erected at Hospice

    near Lough Derg · lake or lakes · Donegal · 1882

    A statue of 'Our Blessed Lady of Lough Derg,' carved in white Italian marble by Mr. O'Neill of Dublin and presented by Mr. and Mrs. John M'Caffrey of Kilmarnock, Scotland, was erected on a dressed stone pedestal in front of the Hospice on Station Island. The unveiling was performed by the Bishop of Clogher the following day.

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    On the following day the Statue of ‘‘ Our Blessed Lady of Lough Derg,” executed in white Italian marble by Mr. O’Neill, Dublin, and presented by two pious votaries of the pilgrimage, Mr. and Mrs. John M'Caffrey of Kilmar¬ nock, Scotland, was erected on a pedestal of finely-dressed stone in front of the Hospice. On the same day arrived the President of All Hallows Missionary College, Dublin, Very Rev. Dr. Fortune, with two deacons. Rev. Charles Hegarty for the diocese of Toronto, and the Rev. Andrew Cassidy* for the distant mission of Wellington, New Zealand,

    * The former of these died some years ago, and the latter (Father Cassidy), after years of arduous labour in several missions in the Pacific, returned to revisit his native land in the summer of 1894, during which he paid a fond visit to the Holy Island of Lough Derg.

    Internet Archive stpatrickspurgat00ocon, Chapter 149

26. Statues of St. Joseph and St. Patrick erected on Station Island

    near Station Island · townland · Donegal · 1891

    The late Bishop of Clogher brought two marble statues from Carrara to be erected on Station Island at Lough Derg. The statues, representing St. Joseph and St. Patrick in full pontificals, were blessed on 4 July 1891 and set on octagonal freestone pedestals.

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    veneration for it, devote all care and skill towards the special perfection of the work. They were duly erected and blessed by the prior on 4th of July, 1891. They stand 7 ft. 2 in. in height, set upon octagon-shaped freestone pedestals, and are pronounced by specialists to be second to none in Ireland in point of artistic merit, their money value alone being ordinarily estimated at between £200' and £300 each.

    Among the special benefactors of Lough Derg, the late John Donegan, jeweller, Dublin, fully realised, as so few have done, the importance of this pilgrimage, and its claims on the generosity of the Irish race. In the summer of 1858 he made a present to its sanctuary of certain church requisites to the value of £170. In con¬ nection with this presentation the following extract from the Nation of August 14th, 1858, will be interesting : —

    Internet Archive stpatrickspurgat00ocon, Chapter 151

27. Stewart lands on friars' island near Purgatory

    near Saints Island · townland · Donegal · 1632

    Sir William Stewart caused his men to land on a little island where friars lived, near to the island called St. Patrick's Purgatory, after the friars had already fled. This smaller island served as the friars' residence.

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    “T have received the copy of a letter sent by my Lord Balfoure, directed to his Lordship, myselfe and others, for seizing unto his Majesty’s use St. Patrick’s Purgatory, and his Lordship appointed me to meete him near the Lough the fifth day of this month, whither I accordingly came, and staid in the comfortlesse place almost two dayes and one night, none coming. And then I got intelligence that the abbots, priests, and fryars, which were in the island, had gotten knowledge of your Lordship’s directions ; whereupon in the night time they stole out of the island in a boat, which at the least would carry forty persons. Whereupon I sent to search for the said boat, which was found and brought unto me. And perceiving that none of the rest mentioned in your Lordship’s letters were likely to come, I being confident that you would take it in good part, that I should rather upon such occasion vary from your direction than leave your intentions unperformed, I caused to land some men upon a little island, where Fryars doe inhabit, near unto the other island, which is called St. Patrick’s

    * The author of the Monasticon Hihernicum states that it was in the year 1630 the Government of Ireland decided on having it finally suppressed, and he adds — “ It was accordingly dug up, to the no small distress and loss of the Roman Catholic clergy.”

    Internet Archive stpatrickspurgat00ocon, Chapter 88

28. St. Patrick founds the church and monastery of Connor

    Connor · townland · Antrim

    After returning from pilgrimages to Rome and Jerusalem, St. Patrick founded the church and monastery of Connor, where an episcopal seat was maintained. The Bollandists record this foundation in the life of St. MacNisse.

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    “ Perfectus autem vir factus^ atque beato Patricio in episcopum sucR gentis ordinaius, limina Apostolorum adiit, Jerusalem quoque, aliaque sancta terrae repromissae loca visitavitP On his return home after those distant pilgrimages, he founded the church and monastery of Connor : — “ Connor ense monasterium consimitur, in quo usque hodie sedes episcopalis habeturP

    He predicted the birth of St. Comgall, founder of the monas¬ tery of Bangor. The veneration of St. Brigid towards him is sufficiently conveyed in these words : —

    Internet Archive stpatrickspurgat00ocon, Chapter 52

29. St. Patrick shown the round cave at Lough Derg

    near Lough Derg · lake or lakes · Donegal

    Henry of Saltrey relates that the Lord brought St. Patrick into a desert-place and showed him a round, dark cave. Because pilgrims are purged of their sins there, the place came to be named St. Patrick's Purgatory.

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    and related what he had heard from Gilbert of Lud, and chiefly the wonderful things that had happened to Owen, an Irish soldier, who was courageous enough to enter this cave. Henry of Saltrey says : — “ The Lord brought St. Patrick into a desert-place, and there showed him a round

    cave, dark within . And since the pilgrim is there

    Internet Archive stpatrickspurgat00ocon, Chapter 28

30. The large penitential Bed at Lough Derg

    near Lough Derg · lake or lakes · Donegal

    The large penitential Bed on the island requires six outside circuits with nine Paters, nine Aves, and a Creed, followed by prayers at two entrances, inner circuits, and kneeling at the centre. It is the most elaborate of the penitential cells.

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    Around the large penitential Bed, six circuits are then made on the outside, while repeating nine Paters, nine Aves, and one Creed. The Pilgrim then kneels at the first entrance of this Bed, and recites three Paters, three Aves, and one Creed.

    Internet Archive stpatrickspurgat00ocon, Chapter 136

31. Allingham's favourable account of Lough Derg

    near Lough Derg · lake or lakes · Donegal · 1852

    An impartial and favourable article on the Lough Derg pilgrimage appeared in Household Words for October 1852, initially attributed to Dickens but now generally conceded to the poet Allingham. He praised Prior Moyna's discourses and the piety of the pilgrims.

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    Of the notices of Lough Derg written by Protestants, the account of it in Household Words for October, 1852, is an honourable exception. At first it was surmised that Charles Dickens had been the author of it, and that he visited the island in person. The authorship of the article is, however, now generally conceded to Allingham, the poet. His description of the pilgrimage is impartial and favourable ; he praises Prior Moyna’s discourses as learned and practical, and he bestows a fitting eulogium on the deep piety and devotion of the pilgrims.

    In the year 1829 Father Belle w was prior for the last time. After him came Father Boylan, who subsequently became P.P. of Enniskillen and Dean of Clogher. He held the office of Prior for two years, and was succeeded in 1831 by the Bev. Patrick Moyna, who continued as prior for about twenty-nine years. The Very Bev. Canon Edward M‘Kenna, P.P., Dromore, succeeded Father Moyna in 1858, and, with but slight interruptions, administered the office for twenty years. The Yery Bev. Canon James

    Internet Archive stpatrickspurgat00ocon, Chapter 125

32. Anthony O'Flaherty and Termonamongan parish

    near Termonamongan · parish · Tyrone · 1763

    Anthony O'Flaherty, an architect from the parish of Termonamongan, settled there with his ancestors. He cooperated with Prior Father O'Doherty in erecting buildings on Station Island around 1763.

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    family of the O’Fiahertys of H-Iar Coimauglit, who in the days of their power were benefactors of many a church and cloister. His immediate ancestors had settled in the parish of Termonamongan, to which parish he also be¬ longed. It is evident he co-operated with the Prior, Father O’Doherty, in the erection of buildings on the island; and in requital for his services permission was f^iven him to erect the above date-stone. What the buildings then erected were I cannot with any degree of certainty say. One of them in all likelihood was St. Mary’s Church, which was replaced over fifty years later by a new structure. To this conclusion I am mainly led by a Map or Plan of the Island, and of St. Patrick’s Purgatory, which I find in the Antiquities of Ireland, by Edward Ledwich (Dublin, 1790). Here we find ‘‘ the church, or monastery,” marked near the site of the present St. Mary’s, but reaching more westerly. The date-stone of that old church was found in the walls of St. Mary’s^ taken down in 1870, to make room for the neat Guthic edifice, which now graces its site. The inscription, from which unfortunately the year is missing, certainly belongs to the last centurj/. It may be seen in the gable of St. Patrick’s ; and it reads : —

    “THIS CHAP:

    Internet Archive stpatrickspurgat00ocon, Chapter 114

33. Augustinian Canons expelled from Lough Derg, 1632

    near Lough Derg · lake or lakes · Donegal · 1632

    The Augustinian Canons conducted the pilgrimage at Lough Derg until their expulsion in 1632, after which Franciscan Friars took charge of the site until the close of the eighteenth century.

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    founded would appear from the fact, that in 1504 Turlough Maguire, who was Prior of Lough Derg, was then pastor of Derryvallen, which clearly suggests that the priorate of Lough Derg and the pastorate of Templecarne, or Termon MacGrath, were two distinct offices and jurisdic¬ tions. Again, it is stated in the Memoir of Most Rev. Peter Lombard, by Cardinal Moran, that Hugh O’Neil, • Earl of Tyrone, claimed and obtained from the Holy Father, in the year 1609, the restoration of the right of appointment to certain benefices, in the list of which Termon MacGrath is included. It is more than unlikely, however, that the right of nominating the Prior of Lough Derg was included in that concession ; whence it would follow that Lough Derg was then as now a separate juris¬ diction. Nor can I find any record in ancient or modern times of any pastor of Templecarne having been Prior of Lough Derg, or of having exercised any parochial juris¬ diction there ; or of anyone having exercised spiritual jurisdiction there, except under the sanction and delega¬ tion of the bishop of the diocese.^ The Augustinian Canons conducted the pilgrimage till their expulsion in 1632. Next, Franciscan Friars had charge of it till towards the close of the last century, when the Bishop of Clogher (in which diocese Lough Derg lies,) appointed one of the secular priests of his diocese to officiate as prior. Since that time a prior and assistant confessors for the pilgrims are annually appointed by the bishop of the

    * The only exception I can find of a parish priest of Templecarne having been also Prior of Lough Derg, is that given by the Rev. Mr. Hewson, who visited the island in the beginning of August, 1701. He states : — “ On the ninth day (about two in the morning), the titular priest of the parish (whom they call prior) puts them into the caves, one of which holds thirty, another sixteen, and another fourteen persons, the men and women separately.”

    Internet Archive stpatrickspurgat00ocon, Chapter 83

34. Churches and penitential beds on Station Island

    near Station Island · townland · Donegal · 1873

    Nicholson's lithograph depicted the key features of Station Island: two churches (St. Patrick's and St. Mary's), the Campanile, St. Patrick's Cross, the penitential beds dedicated to Saints Dabheoc, Molaise, Columba, Catherine, Brendan and Brigid, the water stations, presbytery, six cabins, and boat-quay.

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    to), then of Manchester, obtained permission to take a sketch of the island, and to have at his own expense lithographic prints of it struck off. The work was exe¬ cuted in 1873 by the firm of MacGregor & Co., Man¬ chester. The lithographs, together with the lithographic blocks, were presented by Mr. Nicholson to the bishop of the diocese, for the benefit of the island. The sketch in question, copies of which are procurable on the island, is furnished with a reference table in the margin, which serves the triple purpose of a map, guide, and pictorial representation of Station Island. It represents, though in a fanciful and embellished way, the two churches on the island, St. Patrick’s and St. Mary’s ; the Campanile ; St. Patrick’s Cross; the penitential beds, or oratories, dedi¬ cated to Saints Dabheoc, Molaise, Columba, Catherine, Brendan and Brigid ; the stations at the water ; the presbytery ; the six cabins ; and the boat-quay. Even the solitary sycamore* (the arms of which in pre-campanile days served the purpose of a belfry,) is accurately deline¬ ated on the drawing. Mr. William Wakeman also pub¬ lished a fine water colour sketch of Station Island, taken in 1876, showing the pilgrims’ boat on its passage ; and again, in 1882, he took a very accurate sketch of it, his point of view being Friars’ Island. In this sketch the new Hospice for pilgrims is clearly outlined.

    It would appear that the Station season at Lough Derg during the last century opened on the 1st of May, and

    Internet Archive stpatrickspurgat00ocon, Chapter 134

35. Coppinger's 17th-century description of the pilgrimage church

    near Station Island · townland · Donegal

    A Mr. Coppinger, one of the curious visitors to Lough Derg in the seventeenth century, described the church on Station Island as furnished with a high altar covered with linen cloth, an image of Our Lady with the Christ child, and pictures of the Saviour on the cross and the three kings offering their gifts.

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    seventeenth century, through motives of curiosity and in¬ quisitiveness, may be mentioned a Mr. Ashe, whom James I. sent for that purpose ; also a Mr. Coppinger ; and later still Dillon, Earl of Roscommon, who in ‘Company with one Anthony Lipsett, a surveyor, was able to give a full descrip¬ tion of it. Before Lord Dillon’s visit, Coppinger describes the church as “furnished at the east with a high altar, covered with linen cloth, over which directly hangs the image of our Lady, with our Saviour in her arms ; on the right, the picture of our Saviour on the cross; and on the left, the picture of the three kings, offering their presents to our Saviour.”

    The church here spoken of is St. Mary’s Church, which, between demolitions and restorations, always maintained its position on Station Island, and on or about the site of the present St. Mary’s. At that time it was the only church of the pilgrimage, as St. Patrick’s, or “ Prison Chapel,” was not erected for many years after, and not until the narrow vault, called the Gavevna Purgatorii, was discontinued as the place of vigil and meditation.

    Internet Archive stpatrickspurgat00ocon, Chapter 104

36. Earthen fort on Saints' Island as monastic enclosure

    near Saints Island · townland · Donegal

    The earthen fort on Saints' Island enclosed the cells of the monks and the church founded by St. Dabheoc. The circumvallations served to shelter religious houses from storms, act as observation posts, and protect against marauders.

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    I entertain a firm conviction that the monastery founded by St. Dabheoc on Saints Island stood within this very earthen fort, and that here his order fiourished from the time of St. Patrick until the introduction of the Canons Regular of St. Augustine.

    * Before the demolition of the buildings on Saints’ Island by orders of the Government in 1632, we may suppose that St. Dabheoc’s Oratory was a well-preserved and sightly edifice, mayhap stone-roofed, and not unlike the still- existing oratory of St. Molaise in the island of Innismurray, off the coast of Sligo.

    Internet Archive stpatrickspurgat00ocon, Chapter 25

37. Local tradition at Lough Derg about St. Patrick

    near Lough Derg · lake or lakes · Donegal

    A singular tradition regarding St. Patrick (or Abbot Patrick) is preserved at Lough Derg and receives implicit credence among the local inhabitants. The author relates such traditions as received, cautioning that historical accuracy of many cannot always be sustained.

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    Regarding him, or St. Patrick major (it is not stated which), a singular tradition is preserved at Lough Derg, which obtains implicit credence among the artless inhabi¬ tants of that locality.

    Now, as to the traditions embodied in this book, while I do not profess myself to be so incredulous in the matter of local traditions as Dr. O’Donovan does, yet I well know that the historical accuracy of many of them cannot be sustained. In relating them I do not undertake to establish their accuracy, but merely state them as I received them, leaving to the reader to attach to them whatever importance he may deem fit.

    Internet Archive stpatrickspurgat00ocon, Chapter 53

38. Presbytery built on Lough Derg

    near Lough Derg · lake or lakes · Donegal · 1816–1864

    A substantially built and commodious presbytery was erected on Lough Derg by Prior Bellew in 1816. It was remodelled internally in 1860 and largely rebuilt in 1864 by the then Very Rev. Prior at a cost of £164.

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    The Presbytery, which was a substantially built and commodious house, was erected by Prior Belle w in 1816. It was afterwards, in 1860, considerably remodelled in¬ ternally ; and finally, in 1864, it was in great part rebuilt by the present Very Rev. Prior, at the cost of £164.

    If it be a mark of the sanctity of a place to be made the constant object of attack by heretical and infidel writers, then surely must Lough Derg, independent of any other reason, be regarded as very holy, inasmuch as never yet was there an institution more bitterly and more persist¬ ently assailed than this pilgrimage. Misrepresentation, calumny, invective, ridicule, and all other artifices have been employed against this retreat of Catholic piety. Besides the many charges levelled against it, most of which might with equal force be directed against any Catholic practice or place of Catholic worship throughout the world, Richardson, and others after him, have devised a new and ingenious objection, showing the loss of time and waste of money, both to the individual and to the State, by the toleration of this pilgrimage. The objection only shows with what spirit the enemies of pilgrimages are inspired, who would, forsooth, make temporal concerns of more paramount importance than those spiritual in¬ terests, which the pious pilgrim so anxiously labours to compass.

    Internet Archive stpatrickspurgat00ocon, Chapter 124

39. Primate Sweetman's commendatory letter for Lough Derg pilgrims, 1365

    near Lough Derg · lake or lakes · Donegal · 1365

    In 1365, Primate Milo Sweetman, Archbishop of Armagh, wrote from the city of Down to the Prior of St. Patrick's Purgatory in Lough Derg, diocese of Clogher, asking him to give kind reception to two distinguished foreign pilgrims, John Bonham and Guido Cessy, who wished to visit the Purgatory for the health of their souls.

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    “ Milo, by divine permission, Archbishop of Armagh, Primate of Ireland, to the religious and prudent man, the Prior of St. Patrick’s Purgatory in Lough Derg, in the diocese of Clogher, and to all others the clergy and laity in the province of Armagh, everlasting health in the Lord. John Bonham and Guido Cessy, coming to us, have related, that they, for devo¬ tion’s sake, have gone on pilgrimage and visited many holy places ; and that they are desirous, for the health of their souls, to visit the place called the Purgatory of St. Patrick, our patron, which is in the diocese of Clogher aforesaid. We do, therefore, entreat and exhort in the Lord all and singular, by whom these pilgrims may pass, to entertain and receive them courteously \ and that of the goods which God hath bestowed upon you, you may afford them charitable aid; nor permit, inasmuch as in you lieth, any molestation or disturbance to be given to them. By which means we doubt not but that you shall be made partakers of their devout labours. Given at the city of Down, the 15th day of March, in the year of our Lord 1365, and the fifth of our consecration.”

    In 1396, during the reign of Richard II. and the Yice-

    Internet Archive stpatrickspurgat00ocon, Chapter 67

40. Relatives of Anthony O'Flaherty in Ballybofey

    Ballybofey · town · Donegal · 1880

    As of 1880, a centenarian son of the architect Anthony O'Flaherty was living in Ballybofey, while other relatives lived in Aughyarren.

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    ‘ ‘ Anthony was one of four brothers, two of whom entered the Church. The names of the latter were Neil and Michael, and they laboured for many years in the vineyard of the Lord in the parishes respectively of Termonamongan and Donaghmore. John, commonly called Manasses John, was a farmer, whilst Anthony adopted the profession of an architect ; and in that capacity superintended the erection of many of the churches in this part of Ulster, which were, in those primitive days of architecture in this country, regarded as models of excellence. As he was so engaged in 1763 it scarcely admits of a doubt that he is the ‘ Gonditor'’ mentioned on the slab. I would be inclined to believe that ‘ Conditor ’ in this case means either the architect, or contractor, rather than the person who built the church at his own expense. A son of this Anthony, a centenarian, still lives in Bally bofey, and other relatives of his live in Aughyarren.”

    176

    Internet Archive stpatrickspurgat00ocon, Chapter 114

41. St. Avil's penitential bed on Station Island

    near Station Island · townland · Donegal

    St. Avil is held in veneration at Lough Derg, and one of the penitential circles or beds on Station Island was dedicated to him. A handbook guiding the pilgrimage devotions has attested to this dedication for more than a century.

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    St. Avil is still held in veneration at Lough Derg ; and to him was dedicated one of the penitential circles, or beds, on Station Island, according to the authority of a little handbook, which for more than a century has served as a guide to the devotional exercises of that pilgrimage.

    A St. Fintan would appear to have been numbered among the patrons of Lough Derg. One of its islands (which of them we have no means of finding out,) had

    Internet Archive stpatrickspurgat00ocon, Chapter 44

42. St. Brigid's Cross at St. Patrick's Church

    near Station Island · townland · Donegal

    A cross of Roman model is deeply inscribed on a large freestone block at the eastern corner of St. Patrick's Church on Station Island. From its style and resemblance to crosses at Clonmacnoise, it may date to the twelfth century or earlier.

    Read the passage

    That special devotion was always paid to St. Brigid at Lough Derg no one can doubt. Her cross, her bed of penance, and her chair are lasting mementoes of the fact. At the eastern corner of St. Patrick’s Church, on Station Island, on a large freestone block inserted in the wall, a cross of Roman model is deeply inscribed. This is known as “St. Brigid’s Cross.” At what date this cross was made it is impossible to say ; but from its style, and close resemblance to similar inscribed crosses at Clonmacnoise, we may infer that it is a work of the twelfth century, if

    * Some writer whose name I have not been able to find out. Perhaps it may refer to Brother Michael O’Clery, the celeljrated Franciscan Annalist.

    Internet Archive stpatrickspurgat00ocon, Chapter 45

43. St. Dabheoc's festival days observed at Lough Derg

    near Lough Derg · lake or lakes · Donegal

    St. Dabheocus is held in the greatest veneration at Lough Derg to the present day, with his festivity observed three days each year: January 1st, July 24th, and December 16th. The Calendar of Cashel places his festival only on December 15th.

    Read the passage

    St. Dabheocus is held in the greatest veneration to the present day, and his festivity is observed three days in every year, according to our Festilogies, viz., on the 1st of January, 24th of July, and 16th of December. The Calendar of Cashel places his festival day only on the 15th December. It is related in the beginning of the Irish Life that he had foretold several things about the holiness and virtues of St. Columba many years before the latter was born, from which it follows that he flourished in the time of St. Patrick. He is ranked among the chief saints of Ireland by Cummian.”

    Colgan traces the pedigree of St. Dabheoc to Dichu, St. Patrick’s first convert, from which he infers that he was of the race of the Daljiatachs, and that his country lay about Lecale, in Down. Other authorities trace his iin eage and birthplace to Wales.

    Internet Archive stpatrickspurgat00ocon, Chapter 29

44. St. Molaise of Devenish pilgrimaged to Rome

    Devenish · townland · Fermanagh

    St. Molaise, associated with Devenish in the diocese of Clogher, and St. Endeus, afterwards associated with Arran, both made pilgrimages to the tombs of the Apostles in Rome.

    Read the passage

    Two saints connected with the diocese of Clogher, viz., St. Molaise of Devenish and St. Endeus, afterwards of Arran, made pilgrimage to the tombs of the Apostles in Rome.

    In Eugene O’Curry’s MS, Materials of Irish History (p. 380, et seq.)y we find a learned notice of the Litany of Aenghus the Culdee. The Litany begins thus : — “ Three

    Internet Archive stpatrickspurgat00ocon, Chapter 12

45. The fast-cave or 'prison' at Lough Derg

    near Lough Derg · lake or lakes · Donegal

    The pilgrim enters the fast-cave, also called 'prison' or sepulchre, symbolising death to the world and burial of past transgressions. An ablution is performed after leaving the cave, expressing interior cleansing through penitential works and the Sacraments.

    Read the passage

    By going into “ prison,” or the fast-cave, or sepulchre, as it is variously termed, the pilgrim is reminded that being now dead to the world and its vanities, and having buried, so to sa}^ his past transgressions, he may rise again to the supernatural life of grace, or to a higher degree of per¬ fection. The ablution, usually performed after leaving “ prison,” is expressive of the interior cleansing which the penitential works of the Station and the reception of the Sacraments operate in the soul of the pilgrim.

    The symbolical meaning of the different exercises of the Station is dwelt upon at considerable length in the little handbook by “ B. D.” already referred to, and at still greater length by Richardson, who gives the “Instructions,” which he says were observed in his day (1727). His “Instruc¬ tions” are more diffuse and circumstantial, but substantially the same as those given by “ B. D.” What we have already said, however, sufficiently explains how efficacious they are in awakening religious sentiments in the breasts of the pilgrims, in producing feelings of compunction and sorrow for sin, and in worthily disposing for the Sacra¬ ments.

    Internet Archive stpatrickspurgat00ocon, Chapter 154

46. Thomas Flood of Pettigo manages Lough Derg ferry

    Pettigo · town · Donegal · 1862–1876

    Thomas Flood of Pettigo took charge of the Lough Derg ferry in 1862–63 after William Campbell, and held it until 1876 when his brother Patrick secured the right. In 1868, Flood sought the bishop's approval to increase the ferry charge from 6½d to 8d per pilgrim.

    Read the passage

    Towards the close of the last century a Protestant family, named Johnston, rented the ferry at £250 each year. About the beginning of this century one of those Johnstons, as we shall see, gave great dissatisfaction. After him a ferryman named Travers managed the ferry for about ten years.. Next came Robert Johnston, who rented it down to 1844. At this time Catholic ferrymen came into office, the first of whom was Daniel Campbell, who conducted the ferry in the year 1845. He was succeeded by his son, John Campbell. It was he who built the present ferryhouse, and also commenced the erection of a large inn on the island, which, however, was never completed. It next reverted to his brother, Peter Campbell; then to his brother, William, who held it down to the year 1862-3, when Thomas Flood of Pettigo got charge of it. He held it until 1876, when his brother Patrick (the present ferryman) secured his right in the ferry. The rent of the ferry was reduced for the Campbells to £150 ; and since then it has been still further reduced to £50, which is its present rent, yearly payable to the owner of Termon-Dabheoc, Sir John Leslie, Bart.

    In order to make up the rent, a fine of 6Jd. was formerly imposed on each pilgrim for the “ right of way ” to the island. Within living memory that charge of 6Jd,

    Internet Archive stpatrickspurgat00ocon, Chapter 120

47. Murrisk Abbey as ascent point for Croagh Patrick

    near Murrisk · townland · Mayo

    Murrisk Abbey on the shore of Clew Bay served as the point of ascent for climbing Croagh Patrick. The climb took nearly five hours round trip, and only the young and agile were considered capable of it, though elderly pilgrims were also encountered.

    Read the passage

    “ St. Patrick’s Altar,” or oratory, some cells, and a large penitential l)ed or circle. At these the pilgrim completes the number of his orisons. Round the summit of Croagh-Patrick runs a low parapet, which pre¬ cludes any danger of falling over its steep sides. On Cruachan-Aigle St. Patrick made a forty days’ retreat ; here he overcame the Cacodemons ; and here also took place “ the Striving” with the angel Victor, described in Aubrey de Vere’s “Legends of St. Patrick.” The view from Croagh-Patrick, standing over 2,500 feet above sea level, baffles description. We made Murrisk Abbey on the shore of Clew Bay our point of ascent, and it was almost five hours before we reached it on our return. Only the young and agile are capable of hazarding this feat of Alpine climbing ; yet among the pilgrims, as I learned, many old persons are to be met with.

    Internet Archive stpatrickspurgat00ocon, Chapter 98

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere around here stood Murrisk Abbey, on the shore of Clew Bay, where travellers made their point of ascent for climbing Croagh Patrick. The round trip took almost five hours, and the writer called it a feat of Alpine climbing, something only the young and agile could hazard. Yet among the pilgrims on that mountain, many old persons were to be met with. Croagh Patrick stands over 2,500 feet above sea level, and on its summit St. Patrick made a forty days' retreat, overcame the cacodemons, and there took place "the Striving" with the angel Victor. A low parapet runs round the summit, precluding any danger of falling over its steep sides.

48. 1860 closure of Lough Derg for island repairs

    near Lough Derg · lake or lakes · Donegal · 1860

    In 1860 the Station at Lough Derg was closed while improvements and repairs were carried out on the island. After repairs, pilgrims were readmitted in August with the bishop's sanction, and the Station remained open until 8th September, the only recorded extension past 15th August.

    Read the passage

    * In the year 1860 the Station was closed owing to improvements and repairs being made on the island. After those repairs had been eSected, and about the beginning of the month of August of that year, pilgrims were admitted to the island, and, with the sanction of the bishop of the diocese, the. Station was kept open until the feast of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin, the 8th of September following. During that interval a considerable number of pilgrims arrived. This is the only instance I can find where the Station was kept open after the 15th of August.

    O

    Internet Archive stpatrickspurgat00ocon, Chapter 135

49. Abandonment of Donegal Franciscan monastery

    Donegal · town · Donegal · 1601

    In 1601, the Franciscan community of Donegal was forced to abandon their cloisters by the banks of the Eske. Many fled to the continent, but some remained in Ireland hoping to eventually return and restore their plundered abode.

    Read the passage

    When the community of the Franciscan monastery of Donegal were forced to abandon their cloisters in 1601, the greater part of them found a home and a refuge in Louvain, Brussels and Antwerp, still some remained behind in their native country, hoping that the dawn of better days might witness their restoration to their plundered abode by the banks of the Eske. Of these, we may infer, some extended the consolations of religion to their afflicted countrymen, and even volunteered their

    Internet Archive stpatrickspurgat00ocon, Chapter 100

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Donegal, you're near the banks of the Eske, where a Franciscan monastery stood until 1601. That year the community was forced to abandon their cloisters. Most of the friars found refuge in Louvain, Brussels, and Antwerp. Some stayed behind in Ireland, hoping for better days and a return to their plundered home.

50. Augustinian Canons Restore Lough Derg Cloisters

    near Lough Derg · lake or lakes · Donegal · 1126

    Following the expulsion of the Danes, the Augustinian order was introduced to Ireland and took possession of ruined monastic sites, including Lough Derg, reviving pilgrimage to the sanctuary.

    Read the passage

    Some time after the rout and expulsion of the Danes, religious of the Augustinian order -were introduced into Ireland. They took possession of the ruined cloisters of Lough Derg, Devenish, Clones, and many others through^ out the country. Imar, Archbishop of Armagh, is said to have been the first to introduce them into Ireland, about the year 1126, and to have put under their charge the abbey founded by him at Armagh, and placed under the invocation of the Apostles SS. Peter and Paul. It is asserted that the monastery occupied by these venerable canons at Lough Derg was also dedicated to the same holy Apostles. Ware states that this house of the Augustinian Canons at Lough Derg, according to the Register of John Bole (sometime Archbishop of Armagh, and who died anno 1470), is called “ the filial place of the monastery of the Apostles Peter and Paul of Armagh.”

    With the introduction of the Canons Regular of St. Augustine^ the second epoch in the history of Lough Derg is reached, which as far excelled the glory of the first, as the third epoch, dating from the post-Reformation period, is destined, we hope, to transcend the glory of both. Under the pious Canons life was again infused into the withered bones, pilgrimage to Lough Derg received a fresh impetus, and the sanctuary soon shone forth in brighter lustre than previously. The Canons Regular continued in charge at Lough Derg for about five

    Internet Archive stpatrickspurgat00ocon, Chapter 56

51. Barefoot pilgrimage on holy ground at Lough Derg

    near Lough Derg · lake or lakes · Donegal

    At the outset of their Station, pilgrims remove their shoes out of respect for the sanctity of Lough Derg, drawing parallels with God's admonition to Moses on holy ground. Men wear neither hat nor cap while on the island.

    Read the passage

    Besides, ever}^ penitential exercise here practised in¬ creases in the soul veneration for the sanctity of the place, combined with love and reverence for God, the Author of all sanctity. At the very outset of his Station the pilgrim divests himself of his shoes, out of respect for the sanctity of the place, through a spirit of penance, and in conformity with the admonition given by God to Moses : “ Come not nigh hither ; put off the shoes from thy feet, for the place whereon thou standest is holy ground.” (Exod. iii. 5.) In addition to this the men wear neither hat nor cap while on the island.

    Again, are not the observances of fasting, vigil, and prayer, as here observed, in direct keeping with the constant teaching and precepts of our Divine Saviour ? And where, may we ask, are those salutary precepts so faithfully followed as on the holy island of Lough Derg ? Need we wonder, therefore, that they are such powerful helps in disposing the pilgrims for worthily receiving the Sacraments ? Next, walking round the churches and saints’ beds,” over the uneven surface of the rock, rough stones, water-gravel, etc., does it not convey the very idea of pilgrimage, and suggest very forcibly man’s mortal journeying through the desert-places of this world — of this

    Internet Archive stpatrickspurgat00ocon, Chapter 154

52. Cillene, abbot of Lough Derg, died 721

    near Lough Derg · lake or lakes · Donegal · 721

    The Annals of the Four Masters record under the year 721 the death of Cillene of Lough Derg. The Martyrology of Tallagh lists thirteen saints of that name, and it is considered probable that the Cillene recorded there under January 8th as 'Cillene, abbot' is the same person.

    Read the passage

    “ A.D. 721. Cillene of Lough Derg, died.”

    Now, in the Martyrology of Tallagh, we find no less than thirteen saints of that name mentioned, some having their names merely recorded, others with their dignity, rank, and place of residence annexed ; one of the latter, by the way, being no less a dignitary than “ Bishop of Tehallen.” I consider it extremely probable that the* St. Cillene of Lough Derg is the same as St. Cillene re¬ corded in the Martyrology of Tallagh under January 8th, as “ Cillene, abbot.”

    Internet Archive stpatrickspurgat00ocon, Chapter 43

53. Clara Nugent's votive chalice at Corduff chapel, Carrickmacross

    Carrickmacross · town · Monaghan · 1721

    A small silver chalice of great beauty, preserved at Corduff chapel in the parish of Carrickmacross, was a votive offering to the sanctuary of Lough Derg made in 1721 by Clara Nugent, alias Cusack, of Carlanstown, county Meath. She was related to Dr. Thomas Dease, Bishop of Meath, through the Nugent family of Carlanstown.

    Read the passage

    Another of the Lough Derg chalices is that long pre¬ served in use at Corduff chapel, parish of Carrickmacross. It was a votive offering made to the sanctuary of Lough Derg by a lady, named Clara Nugent, alias Cusack, of Carlanstown, in the county of Meath. She was closely

    174

    Internet Archive stpatrickspurgat00ocon, Chapter 113

54. Clogh-Oir cross at Clogher

    Clogher · townland · Tipperary

    The Clogh-Oir, or golden cross, stands at the royal and ecclesiastical city of Clogher, leaning against the northern transept of the Protestant church there. It is distinct from the stone cross on Station Island.

    Read the passage

    The statement hazarded in the Irish Monthly of January, 1878, that this stone cross is the identical Clogh-Oir, is unsupported by the least tittle of evidence ; for, it is well known that the Clogh-Oir stood at the royal and eccle¬ siastical city of Clogher, where it is still pointed out leaning against the northern transept of the Protestant church there. Of this “grand old cross with its fluted shaft,” wrote Dr. Henry Jones, 4th Protestant Bishop of Clogher, who visited the island in 1647. He says : — “ He saw a stone cross, part broken, part standing, and in the east of the church was another cross, made of twigs, interwoven.” What suggestive words ! the poor friars, unable to provide a cross of stone in place of those so ruthlessly broken, were compelled to provide as a substitute a cross with “ twigs interwoven.”

    What incalculable good the Sanctuary of Lough Derg has contributed to religion and morality since its origin, and with what oil of comfort it has soothed the bleeding wounds of our persecuted country during the long and dismal penal times, will never be fully realised until the great Accounting Day. The learned Balmez, in his European Civilization, speaking of the advantages ren¬ dered to society by the retreats of the solitaries, and by pilgrimages thereto, justly says : —

    Internet Archive stpatrickspurgat00ocon, Chapter 106

55. Freestone quarries near Pettigo

    Pettigo · town · Donegal

    The schist cross on Station Island suggests that the freestone quarries near Pettigo, from which other inscribed stones at Lough Derg were taken, had not been available at the early period of its construction. The local stone is mica-schist, which sparkles with felspar abundant in the area.

    Read the passage

    The stone, of which this cross is formed is schist, * which, with mica-slate, is the quality of stone commonly found in the vicinity of the lake ; the supposition being that, at this early period, the freestone quarries near Pettigo, from which the other inscribed stones at Lough Derg were taken, had not then been available.

    In the space included between the arms, head, and shaft of this cross, there is on both sides a raised circlet, which is about 4 inches in diameter. This circle may be taken as an emblem of eternity ; or as expressive of the catholicity and universality of the Church ; or, what is more likely, as a symbolical representation of the Holy Eucharist, which in the early ages of the faith used to be expressed by such symbols. This was the original form of the circle, which is now so commonly seen entwining the arms of our beautiful Celtic crosses.

    Internet Archive stpatrickspurgat00ocon, Chapter 34

56. Island and boat belong to Master Magrath

    near Station Island · townland · Donegal · 1632

    After clearing the island of pilgrims, Stewart delivered the boat—the safeguard of the island—to the friends and servants of Master Magrath, to whom the boat, island, and surrounding country belonged.

    Read the passage

    Purgatory, where I found foure hundred and seventy-one persons doing such fooleries (sic) as is not to be imagined could be done among Christians, a taste whereof your Lordship may perceive by this inclosed description. All the aforesaid num¬ ber of persons I have caused to be put safe to shore, which was done without any kind of violence. For, seeing the Priests and Fryars had left the island, and carried with them all manner of provisions and goods that therein was, the people were willing and desirous to be drawn on shore. The which being done, I did cause the Boate, which was the safeguard of the Island, to be drawne on shore, and delivered the same unto the friends and servants of one Master Magrath, unto whom the Boate, Island and Countrie doe belong, and told him that it was your Lordship’s directions that the same should not be meddled withal), nor the Island any more frequented until his Majestie’s pleasure were fully knowne, and that your Lordship would signify the same at large. All things being thus fairly done, I hope your Lordship will not dislike that I ad¬ ventured myself alone to do that which was trusted unto me and others. And I am well assured that if I had slipt that occasion, your intentions should not have been executed. So humbly desiring to be excused for what is done amisse, I take leave and will ever remaine

    Your Lordship’s ready and humble servant,

    Internet Archive stpatrickspurgat00ocon, Chapter 89

57. Jocelyn's rivalry between Croagh Patrick and Lough Derg

    Croaghpatrick · hill or hills · Donegal

    Jocelyn impugned the Patrician origin of Lough Derg, apparently because it detracted from the fame of his favoured pilgrimage site, Croagh Patrick. He claimed Lough Derg was established by the Augustinians in opposition to Croagh Patrick.

    Read the passage

    As most of the monasteries laid desolate during the Danish wars were, repeopled by Canons Regular, the custom gradually obtained of calling their monastic pre¬ decessors Canons Regular, and in this way St. Patrick himself was called a Canon Regular, and his feast as such regularly observed in their order. Had Dr. Lanigan made allowance for this intelligible and, in the circum¬ stances, pardonable fiction ; or, had he, like the Spanish critic Feijoo, only made a closer study of the subject, we would be spared the sweeping and uncalled for strictures already quoted. Had Dr. Lanigan been only aware of the ancient remains, inscriptions and traditions at the place, as well as the references in the ancient Irish writings pointing to St. Patrick, St. Dabheoc, and other holy abbots, who presided over this monastic and peni¬ tential retreat, he would have been spared the opprobrium of assailing the origin and antiquity of this venerable pilgrimage. Jocelyn, also, impugns the Patrician origin of Lough Derg, for the sole reason, as it would appear, that it detracts from the fame of his favourite pilgrimage of Croagh-Patrick, that of Lough Derg having been established, as he sa3^s, by the Augustinians in opposition

    Internet Archive stpatrickspurgat00ocon, Chapter 57

58. King Harold's pilgrimage to St. Patrick's cave c.1050

    near Lough Derg · lake or lakes · Donegal · 1050

    Harold, afterwards King of England, made pilgrimage around the year 1050 to the miraculous cave of St. Patrick at Lough Derg, along with many other English princes and nobles.

    Read the passage

    But the darkest day in the history of Lough Derg is drawing near, when the Calvinists, under Government orders, desecrated and demolished this sanctuary, on which Primate Lombard bestowed the distinguished title of being ‘‘ the most celebrated and holy place in Ireland when the apostate English determined to destroy that shrine of religion, where their forefathers in the Ages of Faith had done penance, where King Alfred of Northum¬ bria had prayed to St. Patrick before his return to England from the schools of Mayo and Lisgoole, and where Harold, afterwards King of England (not to speak of many other princes and nobles of that country, who had done likewise), made pilgrimage, about the year 1050, to the ‘‘miraculous cave of St. Patrick.” Of the doom which awaited Lough Derg at the hands of the Calvinists, let the following chapter bear evidence.

    Internet Archive stpatrickspurgat00ocon, Chapter 85

59. Portcreevy boat-quay remains with sylvan setting

    Portcreevy · townland · Donegal

    The remains of the boat-quay at Portcreevy, from which Teague O'Doherty later ferried pilgrims to Station Island, are still visible. Oak, ash and sycamore trees now lend a sylvan charm to this once-frequented but long-forsaken harbour.

    Read the passage

    * It is said that Teague subsequently had charge of the ferry between Portcreevy and Station Island. Remains of the boat-quay at Portcreevy are still visible, where a goodly sprinkling of oak, ash and sycamore trees lends a sylvan charm to this once frequented, but long forsaken harbour. For four or five generations O’Dohertys lived on the slopes of Augh-Keen mountain ; but they are now extinct in the locality.

    Internet Archive stpatrickspurgat00ocon, Chapter 94

60. Primate Sweetman's letter issued from Down, 1365

    near Downpatrick · town · Down · 1365

    Primate Milo Sweetman's commendatory letter to the Prior of St. Patrick's Purgatory, requesting kind reception for pilgrims John Bonham and Guido Cessy, was issued from the city of Down on the 15th day of March, 1365, in the fifth year of his consecration.

    Read the passage

    “ Milo, by divine permission, Archbishop of Armagh, Primate of Ireland, to the religious and prudent man, the Prior of St. Patrick’s Purgatory in Lough Derg, in the diocese of Clogher, and to all others the clergy and laity in the province of Armagh, everlasting health in the Lord. John Bonham and Guido Cessy, coming to us, have related, that they, for devo¬ tion’s sake, have gone on pilgrimage and visited many holy places ; and that they are desirous, for the health of their souls, to visit the place called the Purgatory of St. Patrick, our patron, which is in the diocese of Clogher aforesaid. We do, therefore, entreat and exhort in the Lord all and singular, by whom these pilgrims may pass, to entertain and receive them courteously \ and that of the goods which God hath bestowed upon you, you may afford them charitable aid; nor permit, inasmuch as in you lieth, any molestation or disturbance to be given to them. By which means we doubt not but that you shall be made partakers of their devout labours. Given at the city of Down, the 15th day of March, in the year of our Lord 1365, and the fifth of our consecration.”

    In 1396, during the reign of Richard II. and the Yice-

    Internet Archive stpatrickspurgat00ocon, Chapter 67