A topographical dictionary of Ireland : comprising the several counties; cities; boroughs; corporate, market and post towns; parishes; and villages, with historical and statistical descriptions embellished with engravings of the arms of the cities, bishopricks, corporate towns, and boroughs ; and of the seals of the several municipal corporations .. (vol. 2)

Each story keeps the passage it was read from. Open one to read it as the scan has it, and, where the companion has written its own telling, that too. The passages are read off photographs of the page by machine, so a word here and there comes out wrong; they are kept as the reading produced them, so you can check any of them against the scan.

1. Pure spring on Geashill glebe land

   Geashill · town · Offaly

   A spring on the glebe land of Geashill produces waters that never throw off any sediment and remain perfectly pure even when preserved for many years in bottle.

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   Chalybeate mineral waters arc frequent : some wells at Shinrone throw up a strong ferruginous scum, and their waters leave a lasting mark on linen. In Garrycastle barony chalybeate springs are particularly numerous ; there is also one at Escar, in Coolestown, another at Kilduff, in Philipstown, and another near Aghancon church, in Ballybritt. In Ballycowan barony is a well which exhibits a combination of sulphur with iron. Yet none of these springs are much noted for their medicinal effects. At Ballincar, near Whigsborough, is a spa resembling that of Castle-Connell, in Limerick ; its waters are of a yellowish hue, and it is much esteemed for its efficacy in healing bad sores and scorbutic ulcers. Besides these, may be mentioned a spring on the glebe land of Geashill, the waters of which never throw off any sediment, but, though preserved for many years in bottle, continue perfectly pure, and undistinguishable in taste and colour from that drawn fresh from the spring.

   Internet Archive topographicaldic02inlewi, Chapter 58

2. Pynnar's survey bawn at Mevagh parish

   Mevagh · townland · Donegal · 1618–1622

   At the time of Pynnar's survey, a strong bawn of lime and stone, sixty feet square with flankers, stood at Mevagh. There were 23 British families in the parish, capable of mustering 42 fighting men.

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   MEVAGH, or Moyvagh, a parish, in the union of MiLFORD, barony of Kilmacrenan, county of Donegal, and province of Ulster, 14 miles (N. by W.) from Letterkenny ; containing 593* inhabitants. This parish comprises 21,0*265 statute acres, of which 3825 ^'"6 water ; the greater part of the land is poor, a small portion only being considered very good. There is a great quantity of bog and waste ; the latter consists of large tracts of sand thrown up by the sea. Lead has been discovered, but is not at present worked. The parish is situated on Mulroy bay ; and within its limits is the peninsula of Rossgul, bounded on the west by Sheephaven, on the north by the ocean, and on the east by the arm of the sea called Mulroy : this peninsula rises in the centre into great elevations, and near the shore presents a stunted verdure. The harbour of Mulroy, by the line of coast, is 5 miles to the west of Lough Swilly ; it has water sufficient for the largest ships, and is well sheltered, but part of the channel is narrow and difficult. On the 14th of every month a fair is held in Glen ; and petty-sessions are held on alternate Saturdays. The living is a rectory and vicarage, in the diocese of Raphoc, and in the patronage of the Bishop : the tithe rentcharge is £281. 5. The glebe, about two miles from the church, comprises 184:| statute acres valued at £30 per annum, of which 25:| acres are arable, and the remainder rocky pasture and mountain, with the exception of 2^ consisting of streets and commons : there is no glebe-house. The church is in good repair ; it was built about 170 years since. The Roman Catholic parish is co-extensive with that of the Established Church ; the chapel is a good slated building. The parochial school is aided by an annual donation from Colonel Robertson's fund. At the time of Pynnar's survey, a strong bawn of lime and stone, sixty feet square, with flankers, stood here ; and there were 23 British families, capable of mustering 42 fighting men. 330

   Internet Archive topographicaldic02inlewi, Chapter 150

3. Quaker Provincial School north of Lisburn

   near Lisburn · town · Antrim · 1794

   The Ulster Provincial School for the Society of Friends was founded in 1794 by John Handcock to the north of Lisburn. It boarded, clothed, educated, and apprenticed 50 children between the ages of eight and fourteen.

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   To the north of the town is the Ulster Provincial School for the Society of Friends, founded in 1794 by Mr. John Handcock, who bequeathed a sum of money for the erection of the premises : 50 children, who are eligible at eight years of age and remain till fourteen, are boarded, clothed, educated, and apprenticed ; each scholar pays £3. l^. per annum, and the remainder of the expense, which averages about £14 per annum each, is defrayed by contributions from the society. A free school for boys was founded in 1810, and aided by the Association for Discountenancing Vice ; and there is a similar school for girls, built and supported by subscription : the late George Whitla, Esq., bequeathed £100 to each, the interest of which is applied in procuring clothing for some of the poorest children. "There are two other schools for both sexes, one of them aided by the same society, and the other supported by subscription. An infants' school, also supported by subscription, was established in 183'2, and a building was erected for its use at an expense of £ 1 '20, towards defraying which the late Marquess of Hertford contributed £50. An almshouse for eight poor women was founded under the will of Mr. Williams, in 18'26; and six almshouses, for as many widows, were founded by a member of the Trail family, and are now wholly supported by William Trail, Esq. : they were rebuilt on a more convenient site in 1830, at the expense of the marquess. The several charitable bequests amount in the aggregate to £'2*50, invested in government securities ; the interest is distributed in winter among the poor, according to the wills of the respective donors. A Humane Society for the restoration of suspended animation has been estabhshed here ; and in an airy part of the town is situated the County Infirmary, supported equally by subscriptions and grand jury presentments. The workhouse of the union, on a site of six acres purchased for £742, was completed in 1840, at an expense of £6200, and with all necessary accommodation affords admission to SOO paupers. On the White Mountain, about two miles to the north of the town, are the ruins of Castle Robin, erected by Sir Robert Norton in the reign of EUzabeth ; the walls now remaining are 84 feet long, 36 feet wide, and 40 feet high, and near them is a large mount. Among the distinguished individuals born here may be noticed Dr. Edward Smith, Bishop of Down and Con-

   Internet Archive topographicaldic02inlewi, Chapter 82

4. Quay and museum at Pilltown

   Piltown · town · Kilkenny

   Pilltown, situated at the head of a branch of the river Suir, contains 133 modern houses with neat gardens and fine old trees. A commodious quay was erected by Viscount Duncannon, accommodating 126 vessels in one year, while a museum of paintings and Irish antiquities at the local hotel supports a fever hospital in Carrick-on-Suir.

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   PILLTOWN, a market and post town, in the parish of FiDDOWN, union of Carrick-on-Suir, barony of Iverk, county of Kilkenny, and province of Leinster, 9 miles (N. W. by W.) from Waterford, on the road to Clonmel ; containing 70 1 inhabitants. It derives its name from a branch of the river Suir, called "The Pill," at the head of which it is situated, about l| mile from the river ; and consists chiefly of one wide street, about a quarter of a mile in length, containing 133 houses, which, being mostly of modern erection, with neat gardens in front, and interspersed with some fine old trees, have an extremely pleasing appearance : at the east end of the town is an excellent hotel. A patent for a market has been obtained, but it is not yet established 5 a handsome building, erected at the expense of the Earl of Besborough and intended for the market-house, is appropriated to the use of the Roman Catholic day-school, the Protestant Sunday-school, and all public meetings : it is also used for performing the evening Church service. At the rear of the market-house, is a commodious quay, erected a few years since at the expense of Viscount Duncannon, at which not less than 126 vessels have discharged their cargoes in one year, the Suir being influenced by the tide as far as the Pill, and navigable for vessels of 200 tons' burthen, and for smaller vessels up to the town. Here is a chief constabulary police station ; and petty-sessions are held on alternate Thursdays at the market-house. In the town is a neat Roman Catholic chapel, being one of the three belonging to the district of Templeorum ; also the male and female Protestant parochial schools, chiefly supported by the Earl of Besborough and the rector ; and a dispensary for the poor. A loan fund has been established, with a capital of £100 raised by subscription ; and, in consequence of a bequest of £1000 to the poor of the parish from the late Robert and Elizabeth Landers, almshouses have been erected. A neat museum has been fitted up at the hotel by Mr. Redmond 422

   POME

   Internet Archive topographicaldic02inlewi, Chapter 230

5. Quay and river watch saving lives at Waterford

   Waterford · city · Waterford · 1822

   The Harbour Commissioners established a quay and river watch in 1822 which saved at least 300 persons from drowning. The quay, with its custom-house and two ranges of gas-lights, provided night-time illumination for loading and unloading vessels.

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   The quay, in the centre of which is the custom-house, a neat and commodious building, presents a very brilliant appearance at night, having two ranges of gas-lights, of which that on the verge of the quay is provided by the Harbour Commissioners out of the fees and emoluments of the water-bailiff's office, by agreement with the corporation ; the benefit of these lights has been experienced in a very high degree by vessels loading and unloading by night. The commissioners have established a quay and river watch, which has been very useful in the protection of property and the preservation of human life : it appears that, since its establishment in 1822, not less than 300 persons have been saved from drowning ; and scarcely a night passes, when it is dark and boisterous, without a life being saved. They have also made a complete survey, and published a chart, of the coast for 12 miles to the east and west of Hook lighthouse, for the purpose of making Waterford more known to mariners as an asylum harbour. A dredgevessel is at work, to clear the mud from the quays and river, and render the accommodation to the shipping still better than heretofore. The port affords peculiar

   W ATE

   Internet Archive topographicaldic02inlewi, Chapter 383

6. Quay built at Kinvarra by J. Ffrench, 1773

   Kinvarra · town · Galway · 1773–1808

   A quay about 50 yards long was built at Kinvarra in 1773 by J. Ffrench, great-grandfather of the Baron de Basterot. It was lengthened and raised in 1807, and further extended in 1808 converting it into a kind of dock, providing 12 feet of water at high tide.

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   KINVARRA, a market, post, and sea-port town, and a parish, in the union of Gort, barony of Kil- TARTAN, county of Galway, and province of Con- NAUGHT, 7 miles (N. W.) from Gort, and on the bay of Kinvarra, which is within the bay of Galway ; containing 6586 inhabitants, of whom 959 are in the town. About the reign of Henry VIII., Rory More Darag O'Shaughnessy took the castle of Doon, here, from Flan Killikelly ; totally demolished it ; and erected one near its site, which he named Doongorey. In 1642 this became the property of Thomas Taylor, who encircled it with a strong bawn or wall ; and it is now in a good state of preservation. On the 1st of November, 1755, the day of the earthquake at Lisbon, a castle on the western boundary of the parish, which had formerly belonged to the O'Heynes, was destroyed to its foundation, and a portion of it swallowed up ; and at the same time, the chimneys and battlements of Cahirglissane rocked, and then fell into a chasm formed by rending the rock to the depth of several fathoms. The parish, with' that of Duras, comprises 11,289^ statute acres, and is moderately well cultivated, producing excellent wheat ; sea-weed is used as a manure, and limestone is abundant. Fresh water is scarce, but attempts are being made to obtain a larger supply. The town, in 1841, contained I60 houses ; it has a sub-post office to Ardrahan, and is a constabulary police station. The market is on Wednesdays and Fridays, and great quantities of corn are sold ; fairs are held on May 18th and Oct. 17th, principally for the sale of sheep. A quay, about 50 yards long, was built here in 1773 by J. Ffrench, Esq., great-grandfather of the present Baron de Basterot ; it was lengthened and raised in 1807, and such an addition was made to it in 1808 as converted it into a kind of dock. At high tide there are 12 feet of water at the pier, which is then accessible to vessels of 150 tons' burthen. Sea- weed to the value of £20,000 is lauded here during the spring, from boats, of which from 60 to 100 sometimes arrive in one tide. It has been proposed to establish a steam-vessel, to ply regularly between this place and Galway ; and a canal hence to the river Fergus would greatly benefit the intervening country, by facilitating the importation of sea-weed, sea-sand, and turf, and the exportation of corn. The principal seats are Thorn Hill, Northampton, and Sea Mount.

   Internet Archive topographicaldic02inlewi, Chapter 60

7. Rahan parish church erected 1732, King's County

   Rahan · parish · Offaly · 1732–1817

   The church at Rahan, annexed to the curacy, is a small edifice erected in 1732, situated on the river Clodagh in the barony of Ballycowan. The glebe-house was built in 1817 at a cost of £500.

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   RAHAN, or Raghan, a parish, in the union of Tuli,.AMORE, barony of Ballycowan, King's county, and province of Leinster, 3^ miles (W.) from Tullamore ; containing 4311 inhabitants. This parish, which is situated on the river Clodagh, comprises 14,986 statute acres ; the land, though varying greatly in quality, is in general good and in a profitable state of cultivation. Limestone is quarried for building and for agricultural purposes, and there is an adequate quantity of bog. Rahan is a vicarage, in the diocese of Meath, forming part of the union of Fircall or Killaughey ; the rectory is impropriate in the Marquess of Downshire, and the tithe rent-chage is £157. 9-, of which £103. 17. are payable to the impropriator, and the remainder to the vicar. A portion of the parish, including 6613 statute acres, has been formed into a district parish, and a perpetual curacy instituted, of which the incumbent of Fircall is patron : the income of the curate is £107. '■, arising from a stipend of £55. 7. paid by the incumbent, £37 from Primate Boulter's augmentation fund, and 10 acres of glebe valued at £15 per annum. The glebe-house was built in 1817, at an expense of £500, of which £450 were a gift and £50 a loan from the late Board of First Fruits. The church, which is annexed to the curacy, is a small edifice, erected in 1732 ; and the Ecclesiastical Commissioners recently granted £l66 for its repair. In the Roman Catholic divisions the parish is the head of a district, called Killina, and comprising also the parish of Lynally ; there are chapels at Killina and Kilpatrick, and one in the parish of Lynally. A chapel, also, is annexed to the Roman Catholic college at Tullabeg, founded in ISIS for the education of young gentlemen, under a rector and seven professors belonging to the order of Jesus ; and there is a Presentation convent.

   Vol. IL— 441

   Internet Archive topographicaldic02inlewi, Chapter 241

8. Rahene Castle ruins protecting ferry at Castlehaven

   Rahine · townland · Cork

   On the haven opposite to Castle-Townsend are the ruins of Rahene Castle, which in former times protected the ferry there. About a mile to the east are fragments of Castle-Ire on a bold and commanding eminence.

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   The living is a rectory and vicarage, in the diocese of Ross, and in the patronage of the Bishop : the tithe rent-charge is £375 ; there is neither glebe-house nor glebe. The church is a very handsome cruciform edifice with a tower, and occupies a gentle eminence near the western termination of Glandore harbour, having been erected on that new site in 1H27, at a cost of £900, a gift from the Board of First Fruits ; at which time this living was separated from Kilmacabea and Kilfaughnabeg. The present situation was adopted from its contiguity to the village of Union Hall. In the Roman CathoUc divisions the parish forms part of the district of Castlehaven, or Castle-Townsend : the chapel, near Union Hall, is a large plain edifice, erected in 1830. On a lofty eminence, above the wood of Myross, are the remains of the church of the late ecclesiastical union, which was left to fall to decay in 18'27 : it occupied the site of the abbey De Fonie f'ivo, being near the sea shore, on the south-western side of the parish. On the haven, opposite to Castle-Townsend, are the ruins of Rahene Castle, which in former times protected this ferry ; and about a mile to the east are fragments of Castle-Ire, on a bold and commanding eminence. At Rock cottage. Dean Swift wrote his poem of Carbericc Rupes.

   MYRTLE-GROVE, barony of Imokilly, county of Cork. — See Youghal.

   Internet Archive topographicaldic02inlewi, Chapter 192

9. Raheny as residence of a saint c.570

   Raheny · townland · Dublin · 570

   Raheny is noticed by Archdall under the name of Rathena as the birth-place or residence of a saint about the year 570, at which time there may have been a religious establishment.

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   RAHENY, a parish, in the union of North Dublin, barony of Coolock, county of Dublin, and province of Leinster, 4:^ miles (N. E.) from the Post-office, Dublin, on the road to Howth ; containing 7-2 inhabitants, of whom 295 are in the village. This place, formerly called Rathenny, derived its name from an ancient rath or moat in the centre of the village, overhanging a small stream ; and is supposed to have formed part of the district called Rechen, which, together with Baelduleek (Baldoyle) and Portrahern {Portrane), was granted by Anlave, King of Dublin, to the church of the Holy Trinity, in 1040. It is also noticed under the name of Rathena, by Archdall, as the birth-place or residence of a saint about the year 570, at which time there may have been a religious establishment. The celebrated battle of Clontarf took place in the immediate vicinity ; and Raheny was probably a post of some importance, as commanding the pass of the small river which flows beneath the rath in the village. The parish, which comprises 920:^ statute acres, is bounded on the cast by the sea : the soil is in general of good quality. The greater portion is meadow and pasture, and the arable

   Internet Archive topographicaldic02inlewi, Chapter 241

10. Raheny near the battle of Clontarf

    Raheny · townland · Dublin · 1014

    The celebrated battle of Clontarf took place in the immediate vicinity of Raheny, which was probably a post of some importance as commanding the pass of the small river beneath the rath in the village.

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    RAHENY, a parish, in the union of North Dublin, barony of Coolock, county of Dublin, and province of Leinster, 4:^ miles (N. E.) from the Post-office, Dublin, on the road to Howth ; containing 7-2 inhabitants, of whom 295 are in the village. This place, formerly called Rathenny, derived its name from an ancient rath or moat in the centre of the village, overhanging a small stream ; and is supposed to have formed part of the district called Rechen, which, together with Baelduleek (Baldoyle) and Portrahern {Portrane), was granted by Anlave, King of Dublin, to the church of the Holy Trinity, in 1040. It is also noticed under the name of Rathena, by Archdall, as the birth-place or residence of a saint about the year 570, at which time there may have been a religious establishment. The celebrated battle of Clontarf took place in the immediate vicinity ; and Raheny was probably a post of some importance, as commanding the pass of the small river which flows beneath the rath in the village. The parish, which comprises 920:^ statute acres, is bounded on the cast by the sea : the soil is in general of good quality. The greater portion is meadow and pasture, and the arable

    Internet Archive topographicaldic02inlewi, Chapter 241

11. Railway across Lough Foyle with land reclamation, 1845

    near Lough Foyle · estuary · Derry · 1845

    An 1845 act authorised a railway from Londonderry to Coleraine with a branch to Newtown-Limavady. About 19 miles of the line would run on embankments across Lough Foyle, by which it was proposed to reclaim 18,000 acres of land from the sea.

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    under sheds ; on the opposite side of tlie street is the seahng-room. The butter-market, in Waterloo-place, for butter and hides daily, and to which three weighhouses are attached ; the fish-market, off Linen-hallstreet, daily ; the potato-market, in Society-street, for potatoes and meal by retail daily, with a weigh-house attached ; and the vegetable market, off Linen-hall-street, for vegetables, poultry, and butter daily ; were all built in 1825, by the corporation, to whom the tolls of the butter and potato markets belong. The cow-market, for the sale of cows, pigs, sheep, and goats, every Wednesday, is held in a field to the south of Bishop-street, near the river, which was inclosed in 183'2 by the corporation. There are also a flax-market in Bishop-street every Thursday, and a market for yarn in Butchers'- street every Wednesday. Six fairs are held annually, but only three are of importance, namely, those on June 17th, Sept. 4th, and Oct. 17th ; the others are on March 4th, April 30th, and Sept. '20th. Custom was charged ou every article of merchandise brought into the city prior to 18'26, when it was abolished, except as regards goods conveyed over the bridge ; and in lieu thereof, the corporation instituted trespass, cranage, storage, and other dues. The post-office was established in 1784. The revenue police force usually consists of a lieutenant and twelve men ; and the constabulary, of a chief constable and twelve men. In 1845 an act was passed " for making a Railwui/ from Loiidoiiderri/ to Coleraiiie, with a branch to Newtown-Limavady :" this remarkable undertaking consists of a main line of 3'2i miles, between Londonderry (where it is to join the line from Enniskillen) and Coleraine, and a branch of nearly 6f miles to Newtown-Limavady. The grand peculiarity is, that about 19 miles of the railway and branch will run upon embankments across Lough Foyle, by which it is proposed to reclaim 18,000 acres of land from the sea ; in the remaining portion, the engineers propose to abandon part of the parliamentary plan, for the sake of obtaining a shorter and better line. The total length is 39 British miles, and the capital £500,000, with power to raise £166,000 additional by loan.

    Internet Archive topographicaldic02inlewi, Chapter 103

12. Railway along Monkstown cliffs to Salthill and Dunleary

    Monkstown · townland · Dublin · 1834

    The railway extends along the base of the Monkstown cliffs to Salthill and thence to the old harbour of Dunleary, where the line to the new packet-wharf commences. A martello tower at Seapoint is noted along the route.

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    The Royal Harbour of Kingstown is now exclusively the station for the Holyhead and Liverpool mail packets ; and from the great accommodation it affords to steamvessels of every class, and the protection and security to all vessels navigating the Irish Channel, it has fully, realized all the benefits contemplated in its construction. The number of vessels that entered, during the year 1835, was 2000, of the aggregate burthen of '244,282 tons ; exclusively of 5* men-of-war and cruisers, and of the regular post-ofBce steam-packets from Holyhead and Liverpool, of which there are eight employed daily in conveying the mails and passengers. In 1845 the number of vessels that entered was very much larger. About 20 yawls belong to the port, the chief trade of which is the exportation of cattle, corn, granite, and lead-ore, and the importation of coal, timber, and iron. The intercourse with the metropolis is greatly facilitated by the Dublin and Kingstown Railway, which was lately extended, by the Board of Works, from the old harbour of Dunleary to the new wharf, which is very large and commodious. The original line was opened to the public on the I7th December, 1834, and the number of passengers has since been on the average 5000 daily ; the number from Dublin to Kingstown, during the races subsequent to the opening, was, on the first day, 8900, and on the second, 9700. The line was completed to the old harbour at an expense of more than £200,000, of which £74,000 were advanced on loan by the Board of Works ; and during its progress it employed from 1500 to 1800 men daily. It commences at Westlaudrow, Dublin, where the company erected a handsome and spacious building for passengers ; and is carried over several streets, and across the dock of the Grand Canal, by substantial arches of granite. At Merrion, about two miles from the city, it passes through the sea on an elevated embankment to Blackrock. Thence it proceeds through extensive excavations, and intersecting the demesnes of Lord Cloncurry and Sir Harcourt Lees, passes under a tunnel about 70 feet in length, and extends along the sea-shore to the martello tower at Seapoint, continuing along the base of the Monkstown cliffs to SalthiU, and thence to the old harbour of Dunleary, where commences the line to the new packetwharf. The terminus at the wharf is a very handsome building. Nine locomotive engines of the most approved construction are employed on the road ; and 189

    Internet Archive topographicaldic02inlewi, Chapter 58

13. Railway passes through Merrion sea embankment to Blackrock

    Merrion · townland · Dublin · 1834

    The Dublin and Kingstown Railway passes through the sea on an elevated embankment at Merrion, about two miles from Dublin city, continuing to Blackrock. It then intersects the demesnes of Lord Cloncurry and Sir Harcourt Lees, passing under a tunnel about 70 feet in length.

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    The Royal Harbour of Kingstown is now exclusively the station for the Holyhead and Liverpool mail packets ; and from the great accommodation it affords to steamvessels of every class, and the protection and security to all vessels navigating the Irish Channel, it has fully, realized all the benefits contemplated in its construction. The number of vessels that entered, during the year 1835, was 2000, of the aggregate burthen of '244,282 tons ; exclusively of 5* men-of-war and cruisers, and of the regular post-ofBce steam-packets from Holyhead and Liverpool, of which there are eight employed daily in conveying the mails and passengers. In 1845 the number of vessels that entered was very much larger. About 20 yawls belong to the port, the chief trade of which is the exportation of cattle, corn, granite, and lead-ore, and the importation of coal, timber, and iron. The intercourse with the metropolis is greatly facilitated by the Dublin and Kingstown Railway, which was lately extended, by the Board of Works, from the old harbour of Dunleary to the new wharf, which is very large and commodious. The original line was opened to the public on the I7th December, 1834, and the number of passengers has since been on the average 5000 daily ; the number from Dublin to Kingstown, during the races subsequent to the opening, was, on the first day, 8900, and on the second, 9700. The line was completed to the old harbour at an expense of more than £200,000, of which £74,000 were advanced on loan by the Board of Works ; and during its progress it employed from 1500 to 1800 men daily. It commences at Westlaudrow, Dublin, where the company erected a handsome and spacious building for passengers ; and is carried over several streets, and across the dock of the Grand Canal, by substantial arches of granite. At Merrion, about two miles from the city, it passes through the sea on an elevated embankment to Blackrock. Thence it proceeds through extensive excavations, and intersecting the demesnes of Lord Cloncurry and Sir Harcourt Lees, passes under a tunnel about 70 feet in length, and extends along the sea-shore to the martello tower at Seapoint, continuing along the base of the Monkstown cliffs to SalthiU, and thence to the old harbour of Dunleary, where commences the line to the new packetwharf. The terminus at the wharf is a very handsome building. Nine locomotive engines of the most approved construction are employed on the road ; and 189

    Internet Archive topographicaldic02inlewi, Chapter 58

14. Railway tunnelling under Downhill, seat of Sir Hervey Bruce

    Downhill · townland · Derry · 1837

    The Derry and Coleraine railway, then in progress, required engineers to tunnel extensively under Down Hill, the residence of Sir Hervey Bruce, Bart., in an adjoining parish.

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    The population is chiefly engaged in agricultural pursuits. jNIost of the low lands produce abundant crops of wheat, oats, and potatoes ; the first-named of these, introduced by Mr. Gage in 1S30, now forming part of the rotation of the more wealthy farmers : but the old and less profitable systems of agriculture are still adhered to by many with much pertinacity, and the burning of soil in the low lands has been in some parts carried to such excess as to threaten the total extinction of the productive qualities of the soil. The quantities of white limestone raised in the mountain districts, have tended much to aid the exertions of the landholders in the improvement of their farms. The high lands afford excellent pasturage for sheep and young cattle, and many tracts heretofore unproductive have been brought into a state of profitable cultivation. Little flax has been at any time raised, the soil not being well adapted to it, and still less latterly, in consequence of the low prices of yarn : wool is manufactured into a substantial and well-looking cloth worn by the farmers. A kind of matting is manufactured from the bent grass, or basque, planted on the sandy tracts to prevent the drifting of the sands : a ready sale is found for it in the inland parts of the country. The trade of the parish is mostly confined to the disposal of this article and to the sale of wild-fowl, rabbits, poultry, and eggs in Londonderry. The Derry and Coleraine line of railway, now in progress, will run through the end of the parish ; the engineers are at present tunnelling for it to a very considerable extent under Down Hill, the residence of Sir Hervey Bruce, Bart., in an adjoining parish. The principal seats are, Bellarena, a highly embellished demesne on the banks of the Roe and the side of Benyevenagh, contributing much to the beauty of the 4 A a

    Internet Archive topographicaldic02inlewi, Chapter 312

15. Raleigh and Boyle lands in west Waterford

    Waterford · city · Waterford

    An extensive tract near the western confines of County Waterford, included in the grant to Sir Walter Raleigh, was subsequently purchased by Sir Richard Boyle, afterwards Earl of Cork, and later became the property of the Duke of Devonshire.

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    The county suffered the severest calamities during the protracted war in Munster, towards the close of Elizabeth's reign ; those whom the sword spared being reduced to the extrcmest misery of famine. A large portion of its lands was forfeited : an extensive tract near its western confines, included in the grant to Sir Walter Raleigh, was subsequently vested by purchase in Sir Richard Boyle, afterwards Earl of Cork, and is now the property of the Duke of Devonshire. In the war of 1641, the county experienced its full share of calamities. The towns were chiefly in the Roman Catholic interest, and their inhabitants ravaged the lands of the English settlers, and put many of them to death : the Earl of Cork was scarcely able to defend his settlements in the west ; and finally the whole was overrun and reduced by Cromwell's forces. Few events connected with the war of I6h8 occurred here; but subsequently, in the middle of the last century, the county was much disturbed by agrarian associations and outrages committed by bands of the peasantry, styling themselves Whiteboys, Levellers, and Rightboys. In the insurrection of 179*^, the people of this county, notwithstanding the fury of the hostilities in the adjacent counties of Wexford and Kilkenny, suffered little ; the amount claimed for compensation of losses within its limits, during this period, being only £13'2'2. Early in the present century, considerable disturbance was occasioned by the hostilities of the rural factions called " Caravats" and " Shanavests."

    Internet Archive topographicaldic02inlewi, Chapter 374

16. Raleigh's ambush at Rathkeale, 1580

    Rathkeale · town · Limerick · 1580

    When Queen Elizabeth's forces assembled at Rathkeale on the landing of the Spaniards at Smerwick in 1580, Captain Walter Raleigh remained behind in ambush after the Lord Deputy departed. He surprised Irish plunderers, for which the corporation presented him the freedom of the town; he repaired the castles of Rathkeale and Matrix in return.

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    deputy leaving the place, Capt. (afterwards Sir Walter) Raleigh remained behind in ambush, and surprised a number of the Irish who had collected to plunder the deserted camp ; for which gallant service the corporation presented him with the freedom of the town, he in return repairing the castles of Rathkeale and Matrix. In 1654, the town was fixed on as the place of election for the member to represent the counties of Limerick, Clare, and Kerry, in Cromwell's parliament, into which he proposed to introduce 100 members for Ireland : but though the corporation is frequently noticed in history, nothing is known of its origin, charter, or constitution, further than that it was disfranchised by Cromwell, on the ground that the town had refused his army a sufficient supply of provisions ; and its privileges were never after restored.

    Internet Archive topographicaldic02inlewi, Chapter 250

17. Ramoan parish, 'the fort in the bog'

    near Ramoan · parish · Antrim

    Ramoan, also called Rathmoran, signifies 'the fort in the bog' and is situated on the seashore forming the western boundary of Ballycastle bay. The coast consists of bold precipitous cliffs too abrupt for convenient landing except at the dilapidated Ballycastle quay.

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    RAMOAN, or Rathmoran, a parish, in the barony of Carey, union of Ballycastle, county of Antrim, and province of Ulster ; containing, with the posttown of Ballycastle (which is separately described), 480" inhabitants. This place, called also Rathmona, signifying " the fort in the bog," is situated on the seashore, and forms the western boundary of Ballycastle bay. The coast, consisting of bold precipitous cliffs, is here too abrupt to afford a convenient landing-place, except the quay at Ballycastle, which was constructed at considerable expense, though now in a dilapidated state. The parish comprises 12,0665 statute acres, principally under cultivation ; the system of agriculture is highly improved, but, the lands in several parts being very much exposed, the wheat does not ripen well. The quality of the soil differs much, but it is in general productive, and the extensive mountain of Knocklaide affords good pasturage : the mountain is one of the highest in the county, half being within this parish, and the other half in that of Armoy ; its summit is 16S5 feet above the level of the sea at low water. There are considerable tracts of bog near the Coleraine road, and of waste land in the line towards the Giants' Causeway, and near the base of Knocklaide. Coal of excellent quality is found, but no mines have been opened, though the collieries in the adjoining parish of Culfeightrim, usually known as the Ballycastle collieries, were formerly worked on a considerable scale. Superior freestone, in colour and grain equal to Portland stone, is quarried here, but not to any great extent. The spinning of linen-yarn, and the weaving of cloth, are carried on in some of the farmhouses. A market and fairs, and courts leet and baron, are held at Ballycastle. The chief seats are Clare Park and Glenbank.

    The LIVING was formerly a vicarage united to that of

    Internet Archive topographicaldic02inlewi, Chapter 243

18. Randalstown constituted a parliamentary borough

    near Randalstown · town · Antrim · 1683–1800

    In 1683 Charles II granted the manor of Edenduffcarrick to Rose, Marchioness of Antrim, and constituted the town of Iron-Works a free borough returning two members to parliament. The franchise was abolished at the Union.

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    RANDALSTOWN, a market and post town, and formerly a parliamentary borough, in the parish of Drummaul, barony of Upper Toome, union and county of Antrim, and province of Ulster, 17^ miles (N. W.by W.) from Belfast, and 97i (N.) from Dublin, at the junction of the coach-roads from Coleraine and Magherafelt to Belfast ; containing 588 inhabitants. This place, which is situated on the river Maine, was from that circumstance called Mainwater, and also Iron- H'orks from the forges and furnaces formerly in extensive operation, and of which there are still some remains. In the war of the Revolution the town was the head-quarters of the Earl of Antrim's forces, who marched hence for the siege of Londonderry ; and in the disturbances of 1/98, a body of the insurgent forces attacked it, burned the market-house, and continued their devastations till the approach of Colonels Clavering and Durham, on the evening of the same day, when they retreated to Toome bridge. In 1683, Charles II., in consideration of a fine of £200, granted to Rose, Marchioness of Antrim, the manor of Edenduffcarrick, with all its rights and privileges ; and constituted the town of Iron-Works a free borough, with power to return two members to parliament, to be chosen by the majority of the inhabitants, on precept to the seneschal of the manor issued by the sheriffs of Antrim. The borough continued to return two members till the Union, when the franchise was abolished.

    Internet Archive topographicaldic02inlewi, Chapter 244

19. Randalstown: Revolution HQ and 1798 burning

    near Randalstown · town · Antrim · 1689–1798

    Randalstown, formerly called Mainwater and Iron-Works from its forges and furnaces, served as the Earl of Antrim's headquarters during the Revolution, from which he marched to besiege Londonderry. In 1798, insurgent forces attacked the town, burned the market-house, and retreated to Toome bridge upon the approach of Colonels Clavering and Durham.

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    RANDALSTOWN, a market and post town, and formerly a parliamentary borough, in the parish of Drummaul, barony of Upper Toome, union and county of Antrim, and province of Ulster, 17^ miles (N. W.by W.) from Belfast, and 97i (N.) from Dublin, at the junction of the coach-roads from Coleraine and Magherafelt to Belfast ; containing 588 inhabitants. This place, which is situated on the river Maine, was from that circumstance called Mainwater, and also Iron- H'orks from the forges and furnaces formerly in extensive operation, and of which there are still some remains. In the war of the Revolution the town was the head-quarters of the Earl of Antrim's forces, who marched hence for the siege of Londonderry ; and in the disturbances of 1/98, a body of the insurgent forces attacked it, burned the market-house, and continued their devastations till the approach of Colonels Clavering and Durham, on the evening of the same day, when they retreated to Toome bridge. In 1683, Charles II., in consideration of a fine of £200, granted to Rose, Marchioness of Antrim, the manor of Edenduffcarrick, with all its rights and privileges ; and constituted the town of Iron-Works a free borough, with power to return two members to parliament, to be chosen by the majority of the inhabitants, on precept to the seneschal of the manor issued by the sheriffs of Antrim. The borough continued to return two members till the Union, when the franchise was abolished.

    Internet Archive topographicaldic02inlewi, Chapter 244

20. Raphoe Cathedral tower added by Bishop Forster, 1737

    Raphoe · town · Donegal · 1737

    The cathedral of Raphoe, a plain ancient cruciform structure serving also as the parochial church, had a square tower added to it by Bishop Forster in 1737, as indicated by a date stone over the door.

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    1392 acres of profitable land, consisting of the town parks ; and the gross annual revenue, on an average of three years ending on January 1st, 1832, amounted to £5787. 8. The revenue received by the Ecclesiastical Commissioners, in 1844, was £6337. The chapter consists of a dean, archdeacon, and the four prebendaries of Drumholm, Killymard, Inver, and Clondehorky. The consistorial court is held at Raphoe, and consists of a vicar-general, a surrogate, a registrar, deputy-registrar, and two proctors. The registrar is keeper of the records, which are of modern date ; all prior to 1691 are supposed to have been destroyed when the castle was taken by Cromwell, or when it was plundered and burned by the soldiers of James II. The total number of parishes is 34 (of which 5 are district parishes), comprehended in 34 single benefices, including 5 perpetual curacies ; of these benefices, 5 are in the patronage of the Crown, 15 in that of the Bishop, '2 in the patronage of incumbents, and the remainder in lay patronage : there are 34 churches, and 28 glebe-houses. The cathedral, which is also the parochial church of Raphoe, and to the repair of which the Ecclesiastical Commissioners recently granted £1005, is a plain, ancient, cruciform structure, with a square tower added to it by Bishop Forster in 1737, as appears by that date on a stone over the door : there is no economy fund. The Episcopal palace, originally a strong castle, stood in the immediate vicinity of the town, and was a very handsome and spacious castellated building, in tastefully disposed grounds: it was burnt on November 17th, 1839, by an accidental fire, caused, as is supposed, by embers falling from a grate in an upper chamber, during uight ; no part of the building now remains, with the exception of the outer walls and offices. The demesne, and part of the mensal lands, are let on lease by the Ecclesiastical Commissioners. The deanery-house which is also the glebe-house of the parish, was built in 1739, at an expense of £1680, and has been subsequently enlarged and improved from their own funds by various successive incumbents ; it is pleasantly situated about a mile from the town. In the Roman Catholic divisions the diocese is co-extensive with that of the Protestant see ; it comprehends 24 benefices, containing 36 chapels, which are served by 50 clergymen, of whom "24 are parish priests and 26 are coadjutors or curates. The bishop's parishes are Conwal and Aughnish ; the cathedral is at Letterkenny, where is also the bishop's residence.

    Internet Archive topographicaldic02inlewi, Chapter 245

21. Raphoe monastery founded by St. Columb

    Raphoe · town · Donegal

    Raphoe, anciently called Rathboth, derived its importance from the foundation of an extensive monastery by St. Columb. After its restoration by St. Adamnanus, who died in 703, the monastery continued to flourish and became the seat of a bishopric.

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    RAPHOE, a market and post town, a parish, and the seat of a diocese, in the union of Strabane, barony of Raphoe, county of Donegal, and province of Ulster, 5 miles (N. W.) from Lifford, and U3|- (N. by \V.) from Dublin, on the road from Strabane to Stranorlar ; containing 5694 inhabitants, of whom 1362 are in the town. This place, anciently called Rathboth, appears to have derived both its early and present importance from the foundation of an extensive monastery here by St. Columb, which, after its restoration by St. Adamnanus, who died in 703, continued to flourish, and was soon made the seat of a bishopric. The town consists chiefly of three small streets branching off from a market-place of triangular form, and contains 261 houses, which are neatly built ; the whole of the surrounding scenery is agreeably diversified, and in the neighbourhood are some interesting views. The market is on Saturday, chiefly for meal and potatoes, and occasionally for linen-yarn ; besides which, large markets are held on the first Saturday (O.S.) in Jan., Feb., March, April, and December; and fairs on May 1st, June 22nd, Aug. 27th, and Nov. 4th. The market-

    Internet Archive topographicaldic02inlewi, Chapter 244

22. Rapparees plunder Skibbereen custom-house, 1694

    Skibbereen · town · Cork · 1694

    Three years after the battle, a party of 40 rapparees came into Skibbereen, plundered the custom-house belonging to the port of Baltimore, and killed two revenue officers. The town's wild situation made it a frequent rendezvous of disaffected parties.

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    SKIBBEREEN, a market and post town, and the head of a poor-law union, partly in the parish of Anhevstrewry, but chiefly in that ot Creaoii, Eastern division of the barony of West C.vkbery, county of Cork, and province of Munster,42 miles (S. W.) from Cork, on the mail-road to Bantry, and 167^ (S. W.) from Dublin; containing 4715 inhabitants. In 1691, an engagement took place in the vicinity between the forces of James II. and Colonel Becher, who commanded about 500 of the militia, when the former were put to flight, with the loss of 60 men and a large number of cattle. Three years afterwards, a party of 40 Rapparees came into the town ; plundered the customhouse, which belonged to the port of Baltimore; and killed two revenue officers. The town, from its situation in a wild, uniiulosed part of the country, was frequently the rendezvous of disaffected parties; but it has been much improved of late years, and is now a very flourishing place. It is situated on the southern bank of the river Hen, and comprises seven streets ; that part which extends into the parish of Abbeystrewry is called Bridgetown, and consists of three streets, one of them recently formed. The number of houses in the whole is 753, many of which, in both parts of the town, are large and well built : the approaches have been much improved by the formation of new lines of road at each extremity.

    Internet Archive topographicaldic02inlewi, Chapter 283

23. Rath at Ballytrent with double mound

    Ballytrent · townland · Wexford

    A rath at Ballytrent, near Broadway, is described as one of the most perfect in the southern baronies, featuring a double mound. It has been laid out as a pleasure-garden.

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    The RELICS of ANTIQUITY anterior to the arrival of the English are very few, with the exception of monastic buildings. A fine tumulus or rath stands at Salville or Moatabeg, and another at Donamore, both in the neiglibourhood of Enniscorthy ; near Old Ross is also a rath or tumulus, and two of considerable extent are to be seen near Dunbrody. Smaller raths are scattered in numbers through the southern baronies : one of the most perfect is that at Ballytrent, near Broadway, which has a double mound and has been laid out as a pleasuregarden. There are remains of monasteries at Wexford town, Enniscorthy, St. John's to the south of Enniscorthy, Ferns, Dunbrody, Ross, and Clonmines. Tintern Abbey has been converted into a residence, and the houses of Ballyhack, Carnsore, and Clonmore, are now parish churches ; the remains of Glascarrig are also still visible, part being used as a barn. The sites of the other monastic buildings are either uncertain or wholly unknown : their names are Achadbabla, Airdnecoemhain, Arbensis, Ardladhrann, Camross, Disert- Cheandubhoin, Down, Drum-chaoin-chellaigh, Fionmagh, Horetown, Inverdaoile, lunisbeg, Innisfcal, Kildoghan or Killogan, Maghere-nuidhe, Seanbhotha, and Taghmon. There were religious houses on each of the little islands of Beg Erin and Dcrinis. Near Carnsore are the ruins of a very ancient chapel, called St. Vaugh's.

    The remains of castellated buildings are more numerous. At Wexford is White Castle, over against the entrance to the harbour ; also a castle within the town, since taken down and a barrack erected on its site. 659

    Internet Archive topographicaldic02inlewi, Chapter 397

24. Rath at Coolbane, burial of Fitzgerald kin

    Coolbane · townland · Cork

    At Coolbane, west of Liscarrol, is a large rath neatly planted, where seventeen relatives of Garret Fitzgerald of the house of Desmond, killed in the siege of the castle, were interred.

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    The parish comprises 4028 statute acres ; the land in general is good, and chiefly in pasture. Limestone is quarried both for agricultural purposes and for building. The principal seats arc, Altamira, a handsome mansion in an extensive and richly planted demesne ; and High Fort, the residence of the Purcell family, distinguished for the gallant defence made by its then proprietor. Sir John Purcell, against a midnight attack by nearly 20 robbers, whom, though armed only with a case knife, he entire repulsed ; in consideration of which intrepid conduct, he obtained the honour of knighthood. Sally Park is now in ruins. The living is a vicarage, in the diocese of Cloyne, united to that of Kilbrin, together forming the union of Kilbrin or Liscarrol, in the patronage of the Bishop ; the rectory Is impropriate. The tithe rent-charge of the parish is £190. 10., which is equally divided between the impropriator and the vicar ; the vicarial tithe rent-charge of the whole benefice amounts to £410. 5. The church is at Ballygraddy, on the border of Liscarrol, and in the parish of Kilbrin. In the Roman Catholic divisions the parish is the head of a union, comprising also the parish of Churchtown or Bruhenny : the chapel here, an old building, was lately repaired and enlarged ; there is also a chapel at Churchtown. There are very considerable remains of the ancient castle, which was a quadrangular building, 240 feet long and 120 feet wide, inclosed w Jth walls 30 feet high and defended with two square and four round towers of great strength, parts of which are still remaining. Near the barracks are some remarkable fissures in the limestone rock ; about a mile from the town is a fissure of great depth, called Kate's Hole, which is now closed up ; and at Coolbane, to the west of it, is a large rath, neatly planted, where it is said seventeen of the relatives of Garret Fitzgerald, of the house of Desmond, killed in the siege of the castle, were interred.

    Internet Archive topographicaldic02inlewi, Chapter 83

25. Rath at Fort Singleton near Emyvale

    Fort Singleton · site · Monaghan

    A rath of very considerable dimensions exists at Fort Singleton near Emyvale, but is now almost concealed by plantations.

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    third of very considerable dimensions, but now almost concealed by plantations, may be seen at Fort Singleton, near Eniyvale. Near Carrickmacross are the ruins of a Druidical temple, consisting of an oblong mound of earth inclosed by a circuit of large upright stones. Wicker hurdles of very curious workmanship have been found iu the bogs, in a high state of preservation ; they appear to have been carried thither by parties on a marauding expedition, for the purpose of crossing the bog, and, having been left behind in the hurry of advance or retreat, were gradually imbedded. A curious relic is preserved at Knockbuy, near the town of Monaghan ; it is called the " Balaghdthownagh," and consists of a bo,\, about the size of a thick folio volume, containing a crucifix and some relics. It is kept with the greatest veneration as a kind of heir-loom in the Bradley family, and is used as an attestation of innocence for imputed crimes which do not admit of the usual kind of evidence ; when let out on an occasion of this kind, valuable security is always required for its restoration. No county in Ireland has so few vestiges of monastic buildings. The abbey of Clones is the only one of which any remains exist : that of Monaghan is utterly destroyed, a castle having been erected on its site ; the wealthy abbey of Tyhallon is known only by name. The castle of Monaghan is noticed by Sir John Davies, in his account of the lord-deputy's tour through the county, as being then in a state of ruinous neglect. The ruins of the old mansion-house of Castle-Blayney are still standing, but are so close to the modern building as to injure the appearance of both : there are also the ruins of an old building in the same demesne, bearing, however, no resemblance to a religious structure ; the walls are very massive, but the ruins are so overgrown with trees as to render inspection very difficult. At Vicar's Dale, in Donaghmoyne, are the ruins of a castle ; and near Dawson Lodge, those of another, called Maghernacligh.

    Internet Archive topographicaldic02inlewi, Chapter 162

26. Rath at Tara, residence of Danish king Turgesius

    Tara · parish · Meath

    A rath near Tara was supposed to have been the residence of the Danish king Turgesius, and was the most remarkable of the very numerous vestiges of Danish monuments in the county.

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    The most remarkable relics of antiquity of the earliest ages are two round towers, one at Kells, and the other in the churchyard of Donoughmore, near Navan. At New Grange, near Slane, is a very curious tumulus, in which is an artificial cavern of some extent and singular construction. Near Dowth are a Druidical circle and the remains of a cromlech. Vestiges of Danish monuments are very numerous ; the most remarkable is a rath near Taragh, supposed to have been the residence of the Danish king, Turgesius ; the raths of Odder, Rameven, and Ringlestown, are in the same neighbourhood : they have all been planted. Six of the ancient instruments called corabasnas were found by persons digging in a park near Slane, in 1781 : the corabasna was of a complex form, consisting of two circular plates of brass connected by a spiral wire, which produced a jingling noise when the plates were struck by the fingers ; it was used for the purpose of keeping time. Two splendid torques of pure gold were found near Taragh, in 1813, and passed into the pos- 326

    MEAT

    Internet Archive topographicaldic02inlewi, Chapter 149

27. Rath at Westown House, Naul

    Westown · street · Dublin · 1700–1799

    Westown House, a respectable mansion of antiquated character built early in the last century, stands in a highly improved demesne embellished with fine old timber near the village of Naul. A rath within the demesne has been thickly planted.

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    NAUL, formerly called The Naule, a parish, in the union and barony of Balrothery, county of Dublin, and province of Leinster, 14 miles (N.) from Dublin, on the road to Drogheda, by Ballyboghill ; containing 756 inhabitants, of whom 217 are in the village. The parish comprises 2627^ statute acres, of which two-thirds are arable, nearly one-third pasture, and about 40 acres woodland. 'The ancient castle, sometimes called the Castle of Roches, is supposed to have been built by the family of De Geneville, from which it passed to the Cruises j and, having passed through various hands since 1641, it has become the property of Colonel Tennison, of Castle Tennison, in the county of Roscommon. It is boldly situated on a rocky precipice on the brow of a chain of hills, commanding a fine view of the vale of Roches, above which it towers at a height of upwards of 1 50 feet. Through this vale, which is a romantic tract, bordered in many places with rocks of various size and form, and broken into caves, flows the winding Delvan rivulet, which separates the counties of Dubhn and Meath, and, after forming a waterfall of the same name as the glen, falls into the Irish Sea at the village of Knockingiu. A fine view of this picturesque glen is obtained from Westown Hou.se, a respectable mansion of antiquated character, apparently erected early in the last century, and standing in a highly improved demesne, embellished with some fine old timber, at a short distance from the village : in the demesne is a rath, which has been thickly planted. Reynoldstown is the only other seat in the parish. By an act of the 1st of George I., £2000 were granted to Arthur Mervyn to enable him to complete the mills at Naul, by the addition of granaries.

    Agriculture is not in a forward state : the principal crops are wheat, oats, and potatoes ; limestone is raised for manure from quarries in the parish. In 1824, after several previous trials, a trial for coal was made by boring to the depth of 160 feet, but without success. There is a station of the constabulary police in the

    Internet Archive topographicaldic02inlewi, Chapter 195

28. Rathbeagh as ancient Argiodross and Heremon's residence

    Rathbeagh · townland · Kilkenny

    Rathbeagh, situated on the river Nore, is supposed to be the ancient Argiodross and the residence of Heremon, one of the sons of Milesius, who founded the Milesian dynasty in Ireland. A mount 40 yards long encircled by a double fosse stands on the bank of the Nore.

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    RATHBEAGH, a parish, in the union of Kilkenny, partly in the barony of Fassadininc;, but diiefiy in that of Galmoy, county of Kilkenny, and province of Leinsteu, '2^ miles (N. E.) from Frcshford, and on the lower road from Kilkenny to Ballyragget ; containing 1014 inhabitants. This place, which is situated on the river Nore, is supposed to be the ancient Argiodross, and to have been the residence of Hcrcmon, one of the S(ms of Milesius, who came into Ireland and laid the foundation of the Milesian dynasty in the kingdom. The parish comprises 28'23 statute acres, mostly in a state of profitable cultivation. The ancient manorhouse of Clone, formerly the residence of Sir Toby Caulfield, ancestor of the Earl of Charlemont, is withinthe parish. Fairs arc held on the 1st of May and November, and Dec. 6tb, chiefly for stock, and are well attended ; a constabulary police force is stationed here. Rathbeagh is a rectory, in the diocese of Ossory, forming part of the union of Frcshford, or Aghour ; the tithe rent-charge is £1.51. .5. In the Roman Catholic divisions the parish forms part of the union of Lisdowney. On the bank of the river Nore, at this place, is a mount 40 yards in length and '25 in breadth on the summit, and encircled by a double fosse.

    Internet Archive topographicaldic02inlewi, Chapter 246

29. Rathcline Castle, chief residence of the O'Cuins

    Rathcline · townland · Longford

    There are still remains of Rathcline Castle, the chief residence of the O'Cuins. Not far from it are the ruins of a very ancient church.

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    original buildings remain, and their actual site is matter of doubt. At Lanesborough are the ruins of a collegiate church, or preceptory, originally founded by the Knights Templars. The remains of ancient castles are not so numerous here as in most of the other level counties. Granard Castle is built on a hill rising to a considerable height above the town, and commanding an extensive view over all the flat country. Besides Castle Forbes, the Forbes family had a fortified mansion at Longford, which was burned by the O'Nials in 160.5. At Tenellick is the ruin of a strong castle, and near Ballymahon are the remains of two others. There are still remains of Rathcline Castle, the chief residence of the O'Cuins ; and, not far from it, the ruins of a very ancient church. At Ballymahon was a strong castle erected to defend the ford of the Inny, the only traces of which are the cellars, under a house built on its ruins. Barnacor Castle and Lot's Castle, on the Inny, on the opposite banks, were both erected to protect the important pass or ford of that river ; and at Castlecor are some remains of its ancient fortress. Fossil remains of various kinds have been discovered in the limestone caverns and fissures ; many of them are of animals unknown in these regions, and several of species now extinct in Ireland. The bones and horns of the elk have been dug up in the marl at the foot of the Escars, and beneath several of the bogs ; also, in a small lake near Ballinalee the antlers and bones of the red-deer are often found quite sound, having been preserved by the antiseptic properties of the bog-water.

    Internet Archive topographicaldic02inlewi, Chapter 107

30. Rathcline Castle, headquarters of O'Cuin in Longford

    Rathcline · townland · Longford

    Rathcline Castle was the headquarters and chief fortress of the O'Cuin family, who held a small territory in Annaly (Longford). The castle represented local Gaelic power in the area prior to English domination.

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    It appears uncertain, from Ptolemy's statement, what tribe inhabited this portion of the island in his time. It was afterwards knosvn by the name of the Anali or Annaly, and was the principality of the O'Farrkls, or O'Ferrals, which family was subsequently divided into two main branches ; O'Farrel Buy or the Yellow, which held the southern part of the county ; and () Farrel Ban or the White, which possessed the northern portion. The family of O'Cuin, also, had a small territory here, of which Rathcline Castle was the head-quarters and chief fortress. Feargal, chief of this country, was defeated in 960 by Mahon, Prince of Thoraond, on the banks of the Inny, near its influx into Lough Rte, to which place the latter had ascended by the Shannon with a number of small vessels ; but this event pro<luced no territorial changes. Previously to the arrival of the English, Annaly was included in the province of Meath, and, as such, formed part of the grant made by Henry II. to Hugh de Lacy, who built castles and planted a colony of English there ; but this remote part of his territory, although the English families of Tuite and Delamare succeeded in making a settlement in it, yielded him little more than nominal submission, as the O Farrels held the chief power till the time of Elizabeth. On the division of Meath into two counties in 1543, the Annaly was considered to be a portion of the western division ; and it was not formed into a separate county until the 11th of Ehzabeth, when it was made shire ground by Sir Henry Sidney, lord-deputy, under the name of Longford, from its chief town, and was considered as one of the seven counties of Connaught. Notwithstanding this interference on the part of the English government, the OFarrels were still recognised as chieftains until the 29th year of the same reign. Faghan O'Farrel then made a formal surrender of the territorj' to the queen, and next year obtained a re-grant, suhject'to the jurisdiction of the English law. But the authority of the English government had little influence during the subsequent reigns of James and Charles I., as is evident from the fact that no charter of incorporation was granted to any town in it by the former of these monarchs, by whom so many places in other counties were endowed with corporate rights; the earliest grant of this nature being that of St. Johnstown, in the beginning of the reign of Charles I., while the charters of the other borough towns, Longford, Granard, and Lanesborough, were not obtained until the middle of that of Charles II. From a remonstrance, also, purporting to be sent by the inhabitants of Longford to Lord Costello, to be presented by him to the Lords Justices in Dublin, dated Nov. 10th, 1641, in which thev complain of the grievances under which they laboured as Roman Catholics, and petitioned for an act of obhvion and restitution, liberty of conscience in matters of relicion, and a repeal of the statutes of Elizabeth aeainst" popery, it appears that the O'Farrel family still" maintained almost the exclusive control

    Internet Archive topographicaldic02inlewi, Chapter 106

31. Rathcline castle on the Shannon, built by O'Quin family

    Rathcline · townland · Longford

    Rathcline was distinguished for its castle at the base of the hill of Rathcline, about a mile from Lanesborough, said to have been originally built by the O'Quin family and frequently contested in internal wars. It was dismantled by Cromwell's forces and finally destroyed by fire in the war of the Revolution, though considerable ruins remain on the Shannon's margin.

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    the bank of the river Shannon ; and was distinguished for its castle at the base of the hill of Rathcline, about a mile from Lanesborough, said to have been originally built by the family of O'Quin, and to have been an object of frequent contention in the various internal wars of the country. After numerous vicissitudes, it was dismantled by Cromwell's forces, and finally destroyed by fire in the war of the Revolution ; there are still, however, considerable remains, which, from their fine situation nn the margin of the Shannon, have a very picturesque appearance. The parish comprises 12,883^: statute acres. The land is of indifferent quality ; not more than one-third is under tillage, the remainder being in pasture ; the surface is tolerably level, and there is a considerable tract of bog, in which are found oak and fir trees, used by the poor in roofing their houses. Limestone abounds, and is quarried for building and for agricultural uses ; a speckled black and white marble is also found, and made into mantelpieces. The chief seats are Rathcline, Cionbonney, and Mount Davis. The weaving of linen is carried on in several parts of the parish, and great quantities of frieze are made ; there is also a considerable trade in cora.and eggs, for which the Shannon affords every facility. A very large fair for horses, cattle, and sheep, is held on the 12th of February, at Lanesborough. Within the limits of the parish is the island of Inchenough, or Inchiana, comprising about 50 acres of land, with 6 houses and 43 inhabitants.

    Internet Archive topographicaldic02inlewi, Chapter 246

32. Rathcline seat of the White family on Lough Ree

    Rathcline · townland · Longford

    Rathcline, the seat of a branch of the White family and proprietors of Lanesborough, is pleasingly situated at the base of Rathcline hill and on the shore of Lough Ree, about a mile south of the town.

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    The town is advantageously situated for trade on the river Shannon, over which are a beautiful new bridge of seven arches, and a swivel-bridge ; erected by the commissioners for the improvement of the navigation of the Shannon, in IS44, and connecting the counties of Roscommon and Longford. The chief trade is the exportation of corn, pigs, and eggs, of which vast quantities are scut by the Shannon ; eggs are also sent to Dublin by the Royal Canal from Killashee, to which place they are conveyed from Lanesborough by land carriage. The market, which is abundantly supplied with agricultural produce, is on AVcdnesday, and a fair is held on the l'2th of February. The town has a subpost office to Longford ; and a constabulary police station. About a mile to the south is Rathcline, the seat of a branch of the White family, proprietors of the town, pleasingly situated at the base nf Rathcline hill and on the shore of Lough Rec ; and on the bank of the Shannon, about the same distance from the town, is Clonbony, commanding a fine view of the river and the town. The parish church of Rathcline, the chancel of which is in ruins, is situated here ; and there are a Roman Catholic chapel, and a dispensary. Adjoining the church, are the shattered remains of a large tower, which is said to have been destroyed from the opposite side of the river by the army of James II. Lanesborough gives the title of Earl to a branch of the family of Butler, of Newtown, in which it was revived after it had become extinct in the family of Lane.

    LANG

    Internet Archive topographicaldic02inlewi, Chapter 63

33. Rathcline tower destroyed by James II's army

    Rathcline · townland · Longford · 1689–1691

    Adjoining the parish church of Rathcline at Lanesborough are the shattered remains of a large tower, said to have been destroyed from the opposite side of the river by the army of James II. The chancel of the parish church is also in ruins.

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    The town is advantageously situated for trade on the river Shannon, over which are a beautiful new bridge of seven arches, and a swivel-bridge ; erected by the commissioners for the improvement of the navigation of the Shannon, in IS44, and connecting the counties of Roscommon and Longford. The chief trade is the exportation of corn, pigs, and eggs, of which vast quantities are scut by the Shannon ; eggs are also sent to Dublin by the Royal Canal from Killashee, to which place they are conveyed from Lanesborough by land carriage. The market, which is abundantly supplied with agricultural produce, is on AVcdnesday, and a fair is held on the l'2th of February. The town has a subpost office to Longford ; and a constabulary police station. About a mile to the south is Rathcline, the seat of a branch of the White family, proprietors of the town, pleasingly situated at the base nf Rathcline hill and on the shore of Lough Rec ; and on the bank of the Shannon, about the same distance from the town, is Clonbony, commanding a fine view of the river and the town. The parish church of Rathcline, the chancel of which is in ruins, is situated here ; and there are a Roman Catholic chapel, and a dispensary. Adjoining the church, are the shattered remains of a large tower, which is said to have been destroyed from the opposite side of the river by the army of James II. Lanesborough gives the title of Earl to a branch of the family of Butler, of Newtown, in which it was revived after it had become extinct in the family of Lane.

    LANG

    Internet Archive topographicaldic02inlewi, Chapter 63

34. Rathcoole incorporated before Henry III with 1240 pasture grant

    Rathcoole · town · Dublin · 1240

    Rathcoole appears from records to have been incorporated before the time of Henry III and to have had burgesses. In 1240 Lucas, Archbishop of Dublin, granted the burgesses common of pasture and turbary in the mountain of Slescol at 4s. per annum.

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    RATHCOOLE, a post-town and parish, in the union of Celbridge, barony of Newcastle, county of Dub- Li.N, and province of Leinster, S miles (S. W.) from Dublin, on the road to Naas ; containing 1527 inhabitants, of whom 556 are in the town. Rathcoole is of Irish etymology, viz. : Rath, a Danish fort, and Cool, the back ; signifying " the Danish fort at the back of the mountains. " The place was sometimes called " Radcull," and appears from various records to have been incorporated prior to the time of Henry HI., and to have had burgesses : in the '24th of that reign (1'240), it is recorded that " Lucas, Archbishop of Dublin, grants to the burgesses of Radcull common of pasture and turbary in the mountain of Slescol with his men of Newcastle near Lyons, at 4s. per annum." The town, which is about a quarter of a mile in length, contains 116 houses irregularly built, and has a patent for holding fairs on April '23rd, June 18th, and Oct. 9th, but these fairs have not been held for some years. It is the head station of the constabulary police for the district, and the residence of the chief constable.

    Internet Archive topographicaldic02inlewi, Chapter 246

35. Rathcooney church ruins and St. Leger residence

    near Rathcooney · townland · Cork

    On the townland of Rathcooney stand the ruins of the old parish church with its attached burial-ground. Nearby is an almost-ruined edifice formerly the residence of the St. Leger family, who held considerable property in the parish. Several raths are also found in the area.

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    union, on ground presented by Robert Rodgers, Esq. In the Roman Catholic divisions the parish forms part of the union of Upper Glanmire ; there is a chapel of ease at Spring Hill. S. ftrCall, Esq., left an annuity of £18, late currency, and Quinton Hamilton, Esq., the interest of £500, to be distributed among the poor. A repository for the sale of wearing-apparel to the poor at reduced prices, payable by small instalments, was established at Glanmire, in 183.T, under the patronage of the Rev. T. Woodroffe and a committee of ladies, but it failed to accomplish its intended purpose : there is a dispensary. On the townland of Rathcooney are the ruins of the old church, attached to which is the burialground of the parish. Near this is an edifice now almost in ruins, formerly the residence of the family of St. Leger, who possessed very considerable property in the parish. There are several raths.

    RATHCOR, a village, iu the parish of Carling- FORD, union of Dund.\lk, barony of Lower Dundalk, county of Louth, and province of Lei.vster, 3^ miles (S.) from Carlingford, and on the bay of Dundalk ; containing 36 houses, and 175 inhabitants. A chapel of ease was built in the north part of the townland of Rathcor, in 1845, at a cost exceeding £500, raised by subscription.

    Internet Archive topographicaldic02inlewi, Chapter 247

36. Rathcor chapel of ease built 1845

    Rathcor · townland · Louth · 1845

    A chapel of ease was built in the north part of the townland of Rathcor at a cost exceeding £500, raised by subscription. The village of Rathcor stands on the bay of Dundalk, three and a half miles south of Carlingford.

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    RATHCOR, a village, iu the parish of Carling- FORD, union of Dund.\lk, barony of Lower Dundalk, county of Louth, and province of Lei.vster, 3^ miles (S.) from Carlingford, and on the bay of Dundalk ; containing 36 houses, and 175 inhabitants. A chapel of ease was built in the north part of the townland of Rathcor, in 1845, at a cost exceeding £500, raised by subscription.

    RATHCORE.a parish, in the union of Trim, partly in the barony of Upper Deece, but chiefly in that of Lower Moyfenragh, county of Me.ath, and province of Leinster, 5 miles (S. \V.) from Summerhill, on the road to Edenderry ; containing, with the post-town of Enfield (which is separately described), 3101 inhabitants. This parish, which is situated on the Royal Canal and on the road from Dublin to Athlone, is bounded on the south by the river Blackwater, which here separates it from the county of Kildare. It comprises 1'3,&04 statute acres ; the laud is of good quality, and the greater portion of it under tillage. The system of agriculture is improved ; there is no waste land, and but a very moderate portion of bog. At Newcastle is a quarry of limestone. The principal seats are Johnstown, Rahinstown, Ryudville, Newcastle, and Ballinderry. The living is a vicarage, in the diocese of Meath, and iu the patronage of the Bishop ; the rectory is appropriate to the see, and the tithe rent-charge is £605. 15. 6., of which £3'28. 17. are payable to the bishop, and the remainder to the vicar. There is a good glebe-huuse ; and the glebe comprises 41 acres, valued at £62. 2. per annum. In the Roman Catholic divisions the parish forms part of the union of Rathmolion ; the chapel is a spacious and handsome edifice, situated at Kilcorney, ou the estate of Lord Decies.

    Internet Archive topographicaldic02inlewi, Chapter 247

37. Rathcormac erected a free borough by Charles II

    Rathcormack · town · Cork · 1682–1800

    The town of Rathcormac was erected into a free borough by Charles II in 1682 and obtained the right of returning two members to the Irish parliament, with the franchise vested in freeholders and inhabitants. It was disfranchised at the Union.

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    leather, in the tannery connected with which upwards of 10,000 hides, 32,500 calf-skin-s, and 500 horse-skins, are annually prepared for the markets of London, Bristol, Liverpool, and Leeds. The manor mill, which is under the patent of Charles II., has been rebuilt at an expense of £1500 by Mr. D. Cummins, and is capable of grinding 5000 bags of flour annually. A small market is held iu the market-house on Saturday ; and there are fairs, which are small and not well attended, on Aug. 12. and Oct. 31st. Petty-sessions are held on alternate Tuesdays, and the seneschal occasionally holds a manor court for the recovery of debts under 40*. The town was erected into a free borough by Charles II., in 1682, and obtained the right of returning two members to the Irish parliament, the elective franchise being vested in the freeholders and inhabitants : it was disfranchised at the Union.

    Internet Archive topographicaldic02inlewi, Chapter 247

38. Rathcormac manor mill under patent of Charles II

    Rathcormack · town · Cork

    The manor mill at Rathcormac, operating under a patent granted by Charles II, was rebuilt at an expense of £1500 by Mr. D. Cummins and was capable of grinding 5000 bags of flour annually.

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    leather, in the tannery connected with which upwards of 10,000 hides, 32,500 calf-skin-s, and 500 horse-skins, are annually prepared for the markets of London, Bristol, Liverpool, and Leeds. The manor mill, which is under the patent of Charles II., has been rebuilt at an expense of £1500 by Mr. D. Cummins, and is capable of grinding 5000 bags of flour annually. A small market is held iu the market-house on Saturday ; and there are fairs, which are small and not well attended, on Aug. 12. and Oct. 31st. Petty-sessions are held on alternate Tuesdays, and the seneschal occasionally holds a manor court for the recovery of debts under 40*. The town was erected into a free borough by Charles II., in 1682, and obtained the right of returning two members to the Irish parliament, the elective franchise being vested in the freeholders and inhabitants : it was disfranchised at the Union.

    Internet Archive topographicaldic02inlewi, Chapter 247

39. Rathdown workhouse at Loughlanstown

    near Loughlinstown · street · Dublin · 1841

    The Rathdown union workhouse was built near Loughlanstown on an 8-acre site at a rent of £49. It was completed in 1841 at a cost of £6500 and constructed to contain 600 paupers.

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    LOUGHLANSTOWN, Leighlinstown, or Laugh- LANSTOWN, a village, in the parish of Rathmichael, union and barony of Rathdown, county of Dublin, and province of Leinster, 7 miles (S. E.) from Dublin. It is situated on the road from Dublin to Bray, in a valley watered by two mountain streams. Near it, and on the right of the road ascending from the village towards Bray, is the workhouse of the union of Rathdown, built on a site of 8 acres held at a rent of £49. Vi. ; it was completed in 1841 at an expense of £6500, and is constructed to contain 600 paupers.

    LOUGHMORE EAST.— See Callabeg. 279

    Internet Archive topographicaldic02inlewi, Chapter 113

40. Rathdrum butter in high esteem

    Rathdrum · town · Wicklow

    In the vicinity of Rathdrum, butter is produced that is held in high esteem in Dublin. The cattle reared in the southern part of the county are mostly destined for Ross and Waterford markets.

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    Cultivation has for many years been rapidly extending up the more improvable mountains, and in the richer districts has undergone considerable amelioration, to svhich the liberal measures of Earl Fitzwilliam, one of the largest proprietors, have greatly contributed. Tillage is the chief object of husbandry. The crops in the more elevated situations are potatoes and oats, in exhausting succession ; wheat and barley, and occasionally green crops, are also cultivated in the lower districts, but the land is commonly left to recover itself under pasture. Turnips are cultivated in the south ; and rape is grown by a few agriculturists. Artificial grasses are seldom sown. The inclosed pastures are chiefly fields on which grasses have been left to grow naturally after the land has been worn out with corncrops ; in the eastern part of the county these pastures are luxuriant, particularly near the sea, where cattle are fattened on them. On the banks of the Liffey and Slaney are also many excellent pastures. The upland and mountain pastures, devoted entirely to rearing and feeding store cattle and sheep, are remarkably good of their kind ; and even where bogs most abound, there are spots covered with soft grasses. Lugnaquilla, to the very summit, which is nearly flat and clothed with a dry green sward of velvet softness, is a good sheep pasture. The cattle reared in the northern part of the county are mostly for the Dublin market ; in the southern, for Ross and Waterford. The milk in the former is chiefly applied to the feeding of lambs for the Dublin market ; and in the vicinity 'of Rathdrum some butter is made that is in high esteem in that city. But the common application of grass lands is to the feeding of store cattle and the produce of hay : both cattle and sheep are commonly small ; and the sheep of the mountains are usually very wild and active.

    Internet Archive topographicaldic02inlewi, Chapter 405

41. Rathdrum church bell from Glendalough

    Rathdrum · town · Wicklow · 1796

    The old church in Rathdrum, erected in 1796 and later rebuilt, contained a bell with an inscription in ancient characters said to have belonged to one of the churches at Glendalough.

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    been granted, together with the tithes and a large extent of land belonging to the Priory of All Saints, in that city, after the dissolution of the monasteries : the tithe rent-charge is £415. 7. 7^- The glebe-house was built in 1793, by aid of a gift of £100 and a loan of £600 from the Board of First Fruits ; the glebe consists of II5 acres. The old church, situated in the town, was erected in 1796, at a cost of £1600, by a privale loan and voluntary subscriptions, and by the sale of the materials of the former building : being in a dilapidated state, it has been taken down and rebuilt, at an expense of £1600, of which £1'200 were granted by the Ecclesiastical Commissioners and the remainder raised by subscription. The bell, on which there is an inscription in ancient characters, is said to have belonged to one of the churches at Glendalough. At Ballinatonc is a church for the district of Ballinaclash, which has been constituted a perpetual curacy, and there is a chapel of ease to the same at Sheanna ; also chapels of ease to Rathdrum in Knockrath and at the Meeting of the Waters, served by the curates of Rathdrum. The Roman Catholic parish is co-extensive with that of the Established Church : part of the Flannel-hall has been fitted up as a chapel, and a good house has been erected by Earl Fitzwilliam, near the town, as a residence for the parish priest ; there are also chapels at Clara, Moycreddin, and Grenane. The Wesleyan Methodists have a meetinghouse in the town. A dispensary was established in 1812, and there is a lending-library of about 300 volumes attached to the church. Mr. John Tate, of Fannaneerin, bequeathed lands in Knockrath, of the value of £100 per annum, to be employed in loans of £5, free of interest, for a year, and for assisting the families of the sick, infirm, and aged poor with small donations ; £50 per annum of this fund are appropriated to the dispensary. A charitable association was formed in 1S29, by subscription, to relieve the wants of the necessitous poor in their own houses, and for encouraging industry. Within a few minutes' walk of the town is the union workhouse, on a site of 5^ acres held at a rent of £10. IH. ; it was completed in 1841 at an expense of £6600, and is constructed for 600 inmates. On Drumkitt hill is a chalybeate spring of considerable efficacy.

    Internet Archive topographicaldic02inlewi, Chapter 248

42. Rathdrum: fortified hill residence of ancient chieftains

    Rathdrum · town · Wicklow

    Rathdrum derives its name meaning 'The fort on the Hill' from its position on a lofty eminence that was formerly the fortified residence of the ancient chieftains of Crioc-Cuolan. It was subsequently held by the Byrnes.

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    RATHDRUM, a market and post town, a parish, and the head of a union, in the barony of Ballinacor, county of Wicklow, and province of Leinster, 8 miles (S. W.) from Wicklow, and 29 (S. W.) from Dublin; containing, exclusively of Ballinacor, Ballykine, and Knockrath, 2905 inhabitants, of whom 1232 are in the town. This place, which is situated on the mail-road from Dublin to Arklow, derives its name of Rathdrum, "The fort on the Hill," from its position on a lofty and commanding eminence, formerly the fortified residence of the ancient chieftains of the territory in the north-east of the county, then known by the name of Crioc-Cuolan. It was subsequently held by the Byrnes, but in 1595 was wrested from Pheagh Mac Hugh Byrne, the most active and formidable chieftain of these parts in his time, by Sir William Fitzwilliams, lord-deputy, ancestor of the present Earl Fitzwilliam, who is proprietor of large estates in the county. Some remains of the old castle of the Byrnes are still to be seen in a yard and garden in the town.

    Internet Archive topographicaldic02inlewi, Chapter 247

43. Rathdrum union workhouse completed 1841

    Rathdrum · town · Wicklow · 1841

    A union workhouse on a 5.5-acre site near Rathdrum was completed in 1841 at a cost of £6600, constructed for 600 inmates.

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    been granted, together with the tithes and a large extent of land belonging to the Priory of All Saints, in that city, after the dissolution of the monasteries : the tithe rent-charge is £415. 7. 7^- The glebe-house was built in 1793, by aid of a gift of £100 and a loan of £600 from the Board of First Fruits ; the glebe consists of II5 acres. The old church, situated in the town, was erected in 1796, at a cost of £1600, by a privale loan and voluntary subscriptions, and by the sale of the materials of the former building : being in a dilapidated state, it has been taken down and rebuilt, at an expense of £1600, of which £1'200 were granted by the Ecclesiastical Commissioners and the remainder raised by subscription. The bell, on which there is an inscription in ancient characters, is said to have belonged to one of the churches at Glendalough. At Ballinatonc is a church for the district of Ballinaclash, which has been constituted a perpetual curacy, and there is a chapel of ease to the same at Sheanna ; also chapels of ease to Rathdrum in Knockrath and at the Meeting of the Waters, served by the curates of Rathdrum. The Roman Catholic parish is co-extensive with that of the Established Church : part of the Flannel-hall has been fitted up as a chapel, and a good house has been erected by Earl Fitzwilliam, near the town, as a residence for the parish priest ; there are also chapels at Clara, Moycreddin, and Grenane. The Wesleyan Methodists have a meetinghouse in the town. A dispensary was established in 1812, and there is a lending-library of about 300 volumes attached to the church. Mr. John Tate, of Fannaneerin, bequeathed lands in Knockrath, of the value of £100 per annum, to be employed in loans of £5, free of interest, for a year, and for assisting the families of the sick, infirm, and aged poor with small donations ; £50 per annum of this fund are appropriated to the dispensary. A charitable association was formed in 1S29, by subscription, to relieve the wants of the necessitous poor in their own houses, and for encouraging industry. Within a few minutes' walk of the town is the union workhouse, on a site of 5^ acres held at a rent of £10. IH. ; it was completed in 1841 at an expense of £6600, and is constructed for 600 inmates. On Drumkitt hill is a chalybeate spring of considerable efficacy.

    Internet Archive topographicaldic02inlewi, Chapter 248

44. Rathdrum wrested from Pheagh Mac Hugh Byrne in 1595

    Rathdrum · town · Wicklow · 1595

    In 1595 the stronghold of Rathdrum was taken from Pheagh Mac Hugh Byrne, the most active and formidable local chieftain, by Sir William Fitzwilliams, lord-deputy. The Fitzwilliam family subsequently became proprietors of large estates in the county.

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    RATHDRUM, a market and post town, a parish, and the head of a union, in the barony of Ballinacor, county of Wicklow, and province of Leinster, 8 miles (S. W.) from Wicklow, and 29 (S. W.) from Dublin; containing, exclusively of Ballinacor, Ballykine, and Knockrath, 2905 inhabitants, of whom 1232 are in the town. This place, which is situated on the mail-road from Dublin to Arklow, derives its name of Rathdrum, "The fort on the Hill," from its position on a lofty and commanding eminence, formerly the fortified residence of the ancient chieftains of the territory in the north-east of the county, then known by the name of Crioc-Cuolan. It was subsequently held by the Byrnes, but in 1595 was wrested from Pheagh Mac Hugh Byrne, the most active and formidable chieftain of these parts in his time, by Sir William Fitzwilliams, lord-deputy, ancestor of the present Earl Fitzwilliam, who is proprietor of large estates in the county. Some remains of the old castle of the Byrnes are still to be seen in a yard and garden in the town.

    Internet Archive topographicaldic02inlewi, Chapter 247

45. Rathescar mansion on site of ancient castle at Mosstown

    Mosstown · parish · Louth

    Rathescar, the seat of the late Hon. Baron Foster, was erected on the site of an ancient castle formerly belonging to a branch of the Barnewall family. The baron added an observatory and the demesne comprises about 480 acres.

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    IMOSSTOWN, a parish, in the barony of Ardee, county of Louth, and province of Leinster, 2 miles (S. W.) from Dunleer, on the road to Collon ; containing 1437 inhabitants. It comprises SSl/f statute acres, chiefly in tillage, and under an improved system of agriculture. Rathescar, the seat of the late Hon. Baron Foster (formerly belonging to a branch of the Barnewall family), is a spacious mansion, erected on the site of an ancient castle. The baron erected an excellent observatory, which, being raised to a considerable height above the house, forms a conspicuous object at a distance, and commands extensive views : the gardens and hot-houses are of the first character ; and the demesne, which comprises about 480 statute acres, is well planted, tastefully disposed, and embellished with a fine sheet of water. The parish is a rectory and vicarage, in the diocese of Armagh, forming part of the union of Collon : the tithe rent-charge is £186. 11. 3., and there is a glebe of three acres, valued at £.5. 9. 10. per annum. In the Roman Catholic divisions the parish is part of the district of Dunleer, and has a chapel at Philipstown.

    MOSTRIM. — See Edgeworthstown.

    Internet Archive topographicaldic02inlewi, Chapter 172

46. Rathfarnham Castle built by Archbishop Loftus

    Rathfarnham · townland · Dublin · 1558–1641

    Rathfarnham Castle was built by Archbishop Loftus, lord chancellor of Ireland, during the reign of Elizabeth. Sir Adam Loftus garrisoned it in the 1641 war as an outpost protecting Dublin from the O'Toole and Byrne septs of Wicklow.

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    RATHFARNHAM, a parish, in the South Dublin union, partly in the barony of Uppercross, but chiefly in that of Rath down, county of Dublin, and province of Leinster, 4 miles (S.) from Dublin, on the road to Rathdrum ; containing 4469 inhabitants, of whom 644 are in the village. The castle of Rathfarnham was built by Archbishop Loftus, who was lord chancellor of Ireland in the reign of Elizabeth. On the breaking out of the war of 1641, Sir Adam Loftus held it with a garrison, as an outpost to protect the city of Dublin against the incursions of the septs of O'Toole and Byrne from the neighbouring mountains of Wicklow ; in 1649 it was taken by the forces of the Duke of Ornionde. Adam Loftus, grandson of Sir Adam, was created baron of Rathfarnham in 168.5. At the commencement of the insurrection of I79S, the village was the scene of a skirmish between a detachment of the king's troops and a party of the insurgents, in which several of the latter were killed and others taken prisoners. Near the village is a lofty bridge of a single arch over the river Dorider, the road from which is thickly shaded by the plantations of the demesnes on each side : the place itself is a long straggling street, with very little to attract attention. The country around is studded with numerous beautiful and richly planted seats, and pre-

    Internet Archive topographicaldic02inlewi, Chapter 248

47. Rathfarnham Castle mansion of the Marquess of Ely

    Rathfarnham · townland · Dublin

    Rathfarnham Castle, property of the Marquess of Ely, was a large mansion in a planted demesne with a Roman triumphal arch gateway and a Gothic gateway from the village. Its entrance featured a portico of eight Doric columns supporting a zodiac-painted dome.

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    The castle, now the property of the Marquess of Ely, is a large and stately mansion in the centre of a fine and thickly planted demesne, the principal entrance to which is a very beautiful gateway built in the style of a Roman triumphal arch, besides whicli there is a lofty pointed Gothic gateway leading from the village. The entrance to the house, from the terrace whereon it stands, is by a portico of eight Doric columns which support a dome painted in fresco with the signs of the zodiac : the great hall is ornamented with a number of ancient and modern busts on pedestals of variegated marble, and has three windows of stained glass, in one of which are the arms of the Loftus family. The collection of family portraits, and of paintings by the old masters, has been removed, in consequence of a determination to take the building down, and to divide the demesne into a number of small plots for the erection of villas. The other more remarkable seats, besides those described in the articles on Roundtown and Rathgar, are, Ashfield, the residence of the late Sir W. 0. Smith, puisne baron of the Exchequer ; Beaufort ; Landscape ; Newtown, in the grounds of which are some very fine evergreens : Rathfarnham House ; Barton Lodge ; Edenbrook ; Rusina ; and Whitehall, an out-office of which is built in the shape of a pottery furnace, with a winding flight of steps on the outside to the top, whence there is a commanding prospect of the surrounding country.

    Internet Archive topographicaldic02inlewi, Chapter 249

48. Rathfarnham Castle taken by Duke of Ormonde's forces, 1649

    Rathfarnham · townland · Dublin · 1649–1685

    In 1649 the castle of Rathfarnham was taken by the forces of the Duke of Ormonde. Adam Loftus, grandson of Sir Adam, was later created baron of Rathfarnham in 1685.

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    RATHFARNHAM, a parish, in the South Dublin union, partly in the barony of Uppercross, but chiefly in that of Rath down, county of Dublin, and province of Leinster, 4 miles (S.) from Dublin, on the road to Rathdrum ; containing 4469 inhabitants, of whom 644 are in the village. The castle of Rathfarnham was built by Archbishop Loftus, who was lord chancellor of Ireland in the reign of Elizabeth. On the breaking out of the war of 1641, Sir Adam Loftus held it with a garrison, as an outpost to protect the city of Dublin against the incursions of the septs of O'Toole and Byrne from the neighbouring mountains of Wicklow ; in 1649 it was taken by the forces of the Duke of Ornionde. Adam Loftus, grandson of Sir Adam, was created baron of Rathfarnham in 168.5. At the commencement of the insurrection of I79S, the village was the scene of a skirmish between a detachment of the king's troops and a party of the insurgents, in which several of the latter were killed and others taken prisoners. Near the village is a lofty bridge of a single arch over the river Dorider, the road from which is thickly shaded by the plantations of the demesnes on each side : the place itself is a long straggling street, with very little to attract attention. The country around is studded with numerous beautiful and richly planted seats, and pre-

    Internet Archive topographicaldic02inlewi, Chapter 248

49. Rathfarnham parish church and memorial to Lord Avonmore

    Rathfarnham · townland · Dublin · 1789–1821

    The parish church of Rathfarnham, built in 1789 and enlarged in 1821, contains a mural tablet to Barry Yelverton, first Lord Avonmore, whose remains are interred in the cemetery along with those of the late Archbishop Magee.

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    The parish comprises 578'2 statute acres. It is a rectory, in the diocese of Dublin, and one of the parishes which constitute the archdeaconry of Dublin : the tithe rent-charge is £'236. .5. The church, built in 1789, is of rough stone with hewn-stone quoins, of plain outward appearance, but fitted up within very neatly : in it is a mural tablet to the memory of Barry Yelverton, first Lord Avonmore, whose remains are in the cemetery, as are also those of the late Archbishop Magee. The church was enlarged, and a tower and spire added to it, in 1821, at a cost of £900, being a loan from the Board of First Fruits ; and the Ecclesiastical Commissioners lately granted £270 for its repair. In the Roman Catholic divisions this is the head of the district of Rathfarnham, Crumlin, and Bohernabreena, comprising the parishes of Rathfarnham, Crumlin, Tallaght, Cruagh, and Whitechurch. There are large chapels at Rathfarnham, Crumlin, and Bohernabreena, the last in the parish of Tallaght : close to the first-named is a

    RATH

    Internet Archive topographicaldic02inlewi, Chapter 249

50. Rath, forts and artificial cave near Kilfinane

    Kilfinane · town · Limerick

    Near the town of Kilfinane are a rath and three strong forts, as well as a large artificial cave, indicating significant ancient settlement in the area.

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    The living is a vicarage, in the diocese of Limerick, united by act of council to the vicarage of Daragh, forming the union of KUfinane, in the patronage of the Earl of Cork, partly in whom and partly in the family of Freeman the rectory is impropriate. The tithe rentcharge of the parish is £247. 10., of which £78. 15. are payable to the Earl of Cork, and £123. 15. to the vicar; the rectorial tithe of Bossonstown, Bosnitstown, and Moorestown, amounting to £45, is payable to the family of Freeman. The church was rebuilt in 1760, and is a large plain edifice. The glebe-house was built in 1S13, the late Board of First Fruits giving £400 and lending £386 ; the glebe comprises 4^ acres. In the Roman Catholic divisions the parish is the head of a district, comprising the parishes of Kilfinane, Particles, and Ardpatriek, and containing two chapels ; one a large plain building at Kilfinane, erected in 1835 at an expense of £1000; and one at Ardpatriek. Adjoining the church are the ruins of an ancient castle, built by the Roches. Near the town are a rath and three strong forts ; also a large artificial cave. Castle Oliver, which was successively occupied by the Fitz-Harrises and the Roches, and since 1641 by the Olivers, is now in ruins. Eastward of the town is a fine sulphuro-chalybeate spring, of great efficacy in cutaneous diseases. Outside the town is " the Danes' fort," a mound about 130 feet high, 50 feet in diameter at the base, and 20 at the summit, encircled by seven earthen ramparts about 20 feet apart, gradually diminishing in height from the innermost to the outermost, which is about 10 feet high and 2000 feet in circuit : an extensive view is obtained from the summit.

    KILFINURA, a village, in the parish of Ballynahaglish, union of Tralee, barony of Trughenackmy,

    Internet Archive topographicaldic02inlewi, Chapter 24

51. Rathfran Abbey ruins in Templemurry parish

    Rathfran · townland · Mayo · 1100–1199

    Ruins survive of the fine old abbey of Rathfran, founded for Dominicans in the twelfth century, with an adjoining burial-place still in use. The parish is situated on Rathfran Bay near Killala.

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    TEMPLEMURRY, a parish, in the union of Bal- LiNA, barony of Tyrawley, county of Mayo, and province of CoxNAUGHT, 3 milcs (N.) from Killala, and on the road from Ballina to Lacken ; containing 1291 inhabitants. It is situated on the bay of Rathfran (contiguous to the bay of Killala), into which a river here empties itself; and comprises 2240| statute acres, chiefly arable. Fairs are held at Rathfran on Aug. 25th and Nov. 1 1th. The sea being smoother here than at the contiguous bar, some vessels prefer running up to this part ; it is quite sheltered, and safe from the sea swells. The parish is a vicarage, in the diocese of Killala, forming part of the union of Lacken ; the rectory is appropriate to the dean and the precentor of Killala, and the tithe rent-charge is £S1, one-half payable to the dean and the precentor, and the other half to the vicar. In the Roman Catholic divisions Templemurry is part of the district of Killala. Ruins exist of the fine old abbey of Rathfran, which was founded for Dominicans in the 12th century : adjoining is a burial-place still used.

    TEMPLENECARRIGA, a parish, in the union of MiDLETO.N, barony of Barrymore, county of Cork, and province of Munster, 6^ miles (S. E.) from Rathcorraac, on the road to Midleton ; containing 1574 inhabitants ; and comprising 520S statute acres, of which 64 are woodland, and the rest either pasture or under tillage. It is a rectory, in the diocese of Cloyne, forming the corps of the treasurership of Cloyne, and in the 565

    Internet Archive topographicaldic02inlewi, Chapter 325

52. Rathkeale chosen for Cromwell's parliament election, 1654

    Rathkeale · town · Limerick · 1654

    In 1654, Rathkeale was selected as the place of election for members to represent Limerick, Clare, and Kerry in Cromwell's parliament. The town's corporation was disfranchised by Cromwell for refusing his army sufficient provisions, and its privileges were never restored.

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    deputy leaving the place, Capt. (afterwards Sir Walter) Raleigh remained behind in ambush, and surprised a number of the Irish who had collected to plunder the deserted camp ; for which gallant service the corporation presented him with the freedom of the town, he in return repairing the castles of Rathkeale and Matrix. In 1654, the town was fixed on as the place of election for the member to represent the counties of Limerick, Clare, and Kerry, in Cromwell's parliament, into which he proposed to introduce 100 members for Ireland : but though the corporation is frequently noticed in history, nothing is known of its origin, charter, or constitution, further than that it was disfranchised by Cromwell, on the ground that the town had refused his army a sufficient supply of provisions ; and its privileges were never after restored.

    Internet Archive topographicaldic02inlewi, Chapter 250

53. Rathkeale church built 1831 of local black marble

    Rathkeale · town · Limerick · 1831

    A handsome early English style church with a lofty embattled tower was erected in 1831 near the site of the former church in Rathkeale. It was built of black marble raised from a quarry on the river's bank near the town.

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    The LIVING is a rectory, in the diocese of Limerick, united from time immemorial to the rectories and vicarages of Kilscannel, Clounagh, and Clounshire, and to the rectory of Dundonnell, together constituting the union of Rathkeale and the corps of the chancellorship of the cathedral of Limerick, in the patronage of the Bishop. The tithe rent-charge of the parish is £492. 4. 8., and of the whole benefice £935. 15. The glebe-house was erected in 1819, by aid of a gift of £100 and a loan of £1500 from the late Board of First Fruits : the parochial glebe comprises 14 acres, in two portions; one near the church, on which the Glebe Castle stands ; the other a mile distant, on which the glebe house is built. The church is a very handsome edifice in the early English style, with a lofty square tower, embattled, and crowned with crocketed pinnacles : it was erected in 1831, near the site of the former church, and is built of black marble raised from a quarry on the river's bank near the town ; it stands on a gentle eminence west of the river, close to the old site of Castle-Southwell. In the Roman Catholic divisions the parish is the head of a district, comprising also part of Kilscannel parish, and the whole of the ancient parishes of Rathnasaire and Kilcoleman. The chapel, an ancient and plain building with a new front, is in the town ; in which is also a place of worship for Wesleyan Methodists. The union workhouse, occupying a site of 6 acres purchased for £550, on the Askeaton road, was completed in 1840 at an expense of £66S6, and will contain about 700 paupers. At the upper end of the Main-street are the ruins of the ancient priory, already noticed : the tower and western gable are complete, and the side walls nearly so ; but the building was small, and its architectural details are bv no means interesting. Two miles to the north of 3N2

    RATH

    Internet Archive topographicaldic02inlewi, Chapter 250

54. Rathkeale priory ruins at the upper Main-street

    Rathkeale · town · Limerick

    At the upper end of the Main-street in Rathkeale stand the ruins of an ancient priory. The tower and western gable are complete and the side walls nearly so, though the building was small and its architectural details unremarkable.

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    The LIVING is a rectory, in the diocese of Limerick, united from time immemorial to the rectories and vicarages of Kilscannel, Clounagh, and Clounshire, and to the rectory of Dundonnell, together constituting the union of Rathkeale and the corps of the chancellorship of the cathedral of Limerick, in the patronage of the Bishop. The tithe rent-charge of the parish is £492. 4. 8., and of the whole benefice £935. 15. The glebe-house was erected in 1819, by aid of a gift of £100 and a loan of £1500 from the late Board of First Fruits : the parochial glebe comprises 14 acres, in two portions; one near the church, on which the Glebe Castle stands ; the other a mile distant, on which the glebe house is built. The church is a very handsome edifice in the early English style, with a lofty square tower, embattled, and crowned with crocketed pinnacles : it was erected in 1831, near the site of the former church, and is built of black marble raised from a quarry on the river's bank near the town ; it stands on a gentle eminence west of the river, close to the old site of Castle-Southwell. In the Roman Catholic divisions the parish is the head of a district, comprising also part of Kilscannel parish, and the whole of the ancient parishes of Rathnasaire and Kilcoleman. The chapel, an ancient and plain building with a new front, is in the town ; in which is also a place of worship for Wesleyan Methodists. The union workhouse, occupying a site of 6 acres purchased for £550, on the Askeaton road, was completed in 1840 at an expense of £66S6, and will contain about 700 paupers. At the upper end of the Main-street are the ruins of the ancient priory, already noticed : the tower and western gable are complete, and the side walls nearly so ; but the building was small, and its architectural details are bv no means interesting. Two miles to the north of 3N2

    RATH

    Internet Archive topographicaldic02inlewi, Chapter 250

55. Rathlin Island landscape: basalt cliffs and Church Bay

    near Rathlin Island · island or archipelago · Antrim

    Rathlin Island's western side is rocky and mountainous with brown rocks and basaltic pillars contrasting with chalk cliffs. The eastern portion curves toward the mainland, forming Church Bay, and northern precipices rise 450 feet directly from the sea.

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    The ISLAND is about six miles and a half in length, and about a mile and a half in breadth near the centre ; the eastern portion curves towards the main land, from the nearest point of which it is about three miles distant, forming a small inclosure called Church bay. It comprises, according to the Ordnance survey, 3398|- statute acres, including 30^ acres under water : about three-fourths consist of rocks and stony pasture, and the remainder of arable land of medium quality. The isle is fully exposed to the northern ocean ; and the tides running here with great impetuosity, the sea is often so rough as to deter tourists from visiting it. The western side is rocky and mountainous, and the appearance of the coast strikingly magnificent ; brown rocks, and still darker masses of basaltic pillars, are in some places contrasted with chalk cliffs : on the northern side the precipices towards the sea rise to the height of 450 feet without any projecting base. The soil is a light mould, intermixed with fragments of basalt and limestone ; the valleys are rich and well cultivated, and arable land, meadows, and a variety of rocky pastures, are scattered over the entire island. The substratum of nearly the whole is basalt and limestone ; and on the

    RATH

    Internet Archive topographicaldic02inlewi, Chapter 250

56. Rathmacknee Castle, a well-preserved Wexford fortress

    Rathmacknee · parish · Wexford

    The ancient castle of Rathmacknee adjoins the parish church and is one of the most perfect castles in County Wexford. It consists of a massive square tower with most of its surrounding walls intact, and was inhabited about 80 years prior by an ancestor of the present proprietor.

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    Piercestown, Kilmocree, and Mourntown, the first in Rathmacknee and the last in Kildavin. Adjoining the church is the ancient castle of Rathmacknee, one of the most perfect of the numerous castles in this county ; it consists of a massive square tower with the greater part of the walls still surrounding it, and about 80 5'ears since was inhabited by an ancestor of the present proprietor. The castle and church, with the encircling trees, form a very pleasing group. In the churchyard are two ancient tombs, one of which appears to have been the sepulchre of a former minister, or priest, of the parish.

    RATHMELTON.— See Ramelton.

    Internet Archive topographicaldic02inlewi, Chapter 251

57. Rathmore Castle built on Danish fortress site

    Rathmore · street · Limerick · 1306–1579

    Rathmore Castle was built by the Earl of Desmond in 1306 on the site of an ancient Danish fortress. It was garrisoned by Irish and Spaniards during the 1579 battle of Manister, changed hands between Earl of Desmond's forces and Sir George Carew, and soon after fell into ruin.

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    The remains of the ancient monastery are situated on a flat limestone rock, on the eastern bank of the river, and consist chiefly of the walls and gables of the church, which is 176 feet in length, and divided near the centre by a stone screen separating the choir from the nave ; the former was lighted by a triple lancet window of lofty dimensions at the east end, and above the ceiling, which was richly groined, is a chamber in the roof (of the same dimensions as the choir) to which was an ascent by a private staircase from the altar through the wall of the north aisle. The nave is separated from the aisles by ranges of square pillars, which appear to have been encased ; and there are some small remains of the south transept, and a small chapel of very elegant design. Tiie prevailing character is the early English ; but the present remains are inadequate to convey any just idea of the former grandeur of this once sumptuous and extensive monastery. About a mile to the southeast of the abbey are the ruins of the castle of Rathmore, built by the Earl of Desmond, in 1306, on the site of tlie ancient Danish fortress ; it was garrisoned by the Irish and Spaniards at the battle of Manister, in 1.579, but was abandoned on the retreat of Sir John Fitzgerald. On the retreat of Sir William Malby it was taken possession of by the Earl of Desmonds forces, who were eventually expelled by Sir George Carew ; and soon after, it was suffered to fall into ruin The remains occupy a gentle eminence commanding exten- 304

    Internet Archive topographicaldic02inlewi, Chapter 135

58. Rathmore occupied by Trappist monks

    Rathmore · town · Kerry

    Rathmore House in Kilcummin parish was occupied by a society of Trappist monks, a branch from the parent establishment at Mount Melleray in County Waterford. A chapel attached to the establishment was open to the public.

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    in general heavy ; but in consequence of an abundant supply of lime, the state of agriculture lias of late been much improved. The quarry at Carrigdulkeen, isolated in the midst of an extensive district of mountain and bog, produces a fine blue limestone, equally adapted for building and manure, and is worked to a large extent, there being no other within a circuit of several miles. A court is occasionally held at Five-mile bridge, by the Earl of Kenmare's seneschal, for the manors of Ross and Molahiffe ; at which debts not exceeding 40s. late currency are recoverable. The seats are Shanagh House and Rathmore, the latter now occupied by a society of monks of the order of La Trappe, a branch from the parent establishment at Mount Melleray, in the county of Waterford. The parish is in the diocese of Ardfert and Aghadoe : the rectory is impropriate in the Earl of Donoughmore, and the vicarage forms part of the union of Killarney. The tithe rent-charge is £394. I7., of which £2^8. 14. are payable to the impropriator, and the remainder to the vicar. In the Roman Catholic arrangements this parish is divided into East and West Kilcummin : the former, with the greater part of the adjoining parish of Nohoval-daly, forms the district of Knocknacoppel ; and the latter forms a separate district, the chapel of which is situated at Kilcummin. In the district of Knocknacoppel are the chapel of that name, a large plain building ; Griorguillca chapel, recently rebuilt ; and that of Knoeknagree, in Nohovaldaly ; there is also a chapel attached to the establishment at Rathmore open to the public. The late Mr. Cronin, of the Park, near Killarney, bequeathed £30 per annum for the establishment and support of a school in each of the parishes of Kilcummin and Nohoval-daly. On the southern confines of the parish are two remarkable mountains, which from their peculiar shape are called " the Paps," rising S'iSO feet above the level of the sea, and forming striking features in the mountain scenery on the road from Killarney to Cork. At their base is an ancient fort or rath, near which is a holy well resorted to by numbers of the peasantry on May-day. The ruins of the old church are situated on an eminence commanding an extensive prospect : the late Lord Barrymore was interred here.

    Internet Archive topographicaldic02inlewi, Chapter 18

59. Rathnally seat on the banks of the Boyne

    Rathnally · townland · Meath

    Rathnally is a handsome gentleman's seat in Kilcooly parish, Meath, pleasantly situated in a well-planted demesne on the banks of the River Boyne.

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    KILCOOLEY, a parish, in the union of Trim, barony of Upper Navan, county of Meath, and province of Leinster, li mile (E. by N.) from Trim, on the road from that place to Navan ; containing 303 inhabitants. The parish comprises 2455 statute acres : the land is principally under tillage, and there is some good pasturage ; also limestone, which is quarried for building. Here is a large flour-mill. Rathnally is a handsome seat, pleasantly situated in a well-planted demesne on the banks of the Boyne. The parish is in the diocese of Meath ; the rectory is impropriate in the Marquess of Drogheda, and the vicarage forms part of the union of Trim": the tithe rent-charge is £S1, of which £62. 6. are payable to the impropriator, and the remainder to the vicar. In the Roman Catholic divisions Kilcooley is considered to be part of the union or district of Churchtown.

    K I L— C O

    Internet Archive topographicaldic02inlewi, Chapter 16

60. Rath near Tara attributed to Turgesius

    Tara · parish · Meath · 838–845

    A large and strongly built rath in the immediate neighbourhood of Tara is said to have been the chief residence of the Danish king Turgesius. The numerous raths scattered across the county are attributed to him and his followers.

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    The Eblani, whose territory also extended over Dublin and Kildare, are mentioned by Ptolemy as being settled in this county. According to the native divisions the district formed part of one of the five kingdoms into ■which Ireland was partitioned, and was known by the name of Mithe, Methe, Media or Midia ; perhaps from its central situation. Other writers, however, derive its name from the Irish Mlaith or Magh, a " plain," or "level country," a derivation indicative of its natural character. It was afterwards divided into two parts ; Oireamhoin, or " the eastern country," which comprehended the portion now known by the name of Meath ; and Eireamhoiii, or " the western country," comprehending the present counties of Westmeath and Longford, ■with parts of Cavan, Kildare, and the King's county. The prince of East Meath was O'Nial, hereditary chieftain of Caelman or Clancolman, who is distinguished in the native annals by the name of the Southern O'Nial. The district surrounding the hill of Taragh was originally called Magh-Breagh. On this hill, styled also "Teamor, from Teaghmor, " the great house," was held the general assembly of the states of the kingdom, which met triennially, from a very early period to the end of the sixth century. Here was preserved the Labheireg, or " stone of destiny," on which the monarchs of Ireland were placed at their inauguration, and which, after having been removed to Scotland, was carried away by Edward I., among the other trophies of his victory, tt) Westminster, where it still remains. From this hill, which St. Patrick chose as the most appropriate place for promulgating the object of his mission, the Christian religion spread itself rapidly over every part of the island ; and the numerous religious institutions founded by that apostle and his immediate disciples throughout the surrounding districts, attest the rapid progress and permanence of the new doctrine. This part of Ireland suffered severely by the invasions of the Danes. In 838, Turgesius, king of that nation, sailed up the Boyne ; and after making the country the scene of unexampled devastation, in which the persons and property of the Christian clergy were principal objects of persecution, he fixed here his seat of government. The erection of the raths scattered over the county is attributed to him and his followers ; one of them, of peculiar extent and strength, in the immediate neighbourhood of Taragh, is said to have been his chief place of residence. After his assassination by Melaghlin, King of Meath, the Danes who escaped a similar fate, after a continued struggle for more than a century, were totally defeated at Taragh in 980. Yet the frequent destruction of monasteries and towns recorded in the annals of the religious houses, afford melancholy proof that, though unable to regain their former dominion, this ferocious and warlike people were powerful enough to disturb the tranquillity of the country by their frequent predatory incursions.

    Internet Archive topographicaldic02inlewi, Chapter 148