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. Barnacor Castle and Lot's Castle guarding the Inny ford

   Barnacor · townland · Longford

   Barnacor Castle and Lot's Castle stand on opposite banks of the Inny river, both erected to protect an important pass or ford. Both were defensive fortifications controlling river crossing.

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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

2. Barnacor castle defending river pass

   Barnacor · townland · Longford

   The remains of the castle of Barnacor stand near the river Inny, apparently built to defend the pass of the river in co-operation with Lot's Castle on the opposite bank.

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   The living is a vicarage, in the diocese of Ardagh, and in the patronage of the Bishop ; the rectory is impropriate in the vicars- choral of the cathedrals of Christ Church and St. Patrick, Dublin. The tithe rent-charge is f'iSS. 11. 11., of which £14.5. 16. '2. are payable to the impropriators, and £9'2. 15. 9. to the vicar. The glebe-house, towards the erection of which the Board of First Fruits contributed £400 and a loan of £370, in 1S13, is a good residence ; and the glebe comprises 34 acres, valued at £4.5. 9- per annum. The church, a handsome edifice situated in Ballymahon, was enlarged in 18'24, the Board of First Fruits granting a loan of £1140. In the Roman Catholic divisions the parish, called sometimes Ballymahon, and forming one of the bishop's parishes, is co-extensive with that of the Established Church ; the chapel is a spacious and well built edifice. Tiiere are some remains of the ancient parish church at Shruel ; the cemetery is still a favourite burial-place. In addition to the castles of Ballymahon and Castlecor, noticed in the article on that town, are the remains of the castle of Barnacor, apparently built to defend the pass of the river in co-operation with Lot's Castle on the opposite bank. On the hill of Mullavorna was a monastery, which was eventually removed to Foighy. On the townland of Cartronboy is a cavern containing several chambers, within the area of a Danish rath.

   Internet Archive topographicaldic02inlewi, Chapter 278

3. Barnesmore Gap and mountains above Stranorlar

   near Barnesmore · pass · Donegal

   The stupendous mountains of Barnesmore form the Gap of Barnesmore at the south-western extremity of Stranorlar parish. A fine stream flows through the gap into Lough Esk, and it serves as the principal pass between the north and west of Ireland.

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   STRANORLAR, a market and post town, a parish, and the head of a union, in the barony of Raphoe, county of Donegal, and province of Ulster; 10^ miles (W. byS.) from Lifford, and 118 (N. W.byN.) from Dublin, on the road from Strabane to Ballyshannon, and on the river Fin ; containing 6l6 1 inhabitants, of whom 385 are in the town. The parish, according to the Ordnance survey, comprises 15, ,509 statute aires, of which 159 are covered by water. That part which forms the estate of Sir Edmund Hayes is under an improved system of agriculture, but the other part appears to be neglected. Here are two veins containing spar, ochre, and apparently lead-ore ; they are in a limestone rock, and in the vicinity are great bodies of decomposed limestone, forming excellent manure : some is quarried for building. The stupendous mountains of Barnesmore, alike remarkable for their perpendicular ascent and for their beautifully varied rocks and herbage, form the Gap of the same name, situated just without the southwestern extremity of the parish ; through this gap a fine stream flows into Lough Esk, and it is also the pass between the north and west of Ireland, coastwise, and on the leading road to Donegal. The town comprises SI houses, of which '20 are well built, the remainder being occupied by labourers and artisans. Here are two good hotels ; also a market and court house. The market, at which fine brown linen is sold, is held every Saturday ; and there are fairs on March 29th, June nth, July 6th, Aug. 12th, Oct. lOth, and Dec. 9th and 10th. Manor courts are held in the court-house before the seneschal on the first Saturday in every month; and petty-sessions are held on alternate Wednesdays. The linen manufacture is partially carried on ; there are two extensive bleach-greens near the town. In the neighbourhood are numerous gentlemen's seats, among which are, Drumboe Castle, the residence of Sir E. Hayes, situated on a pretty lawn in the centre of an improved demesne ; Tyrcallen, the property of the Marquess Conyngham, a beautiful and extensively planted demesne, on the principal elevation in which stands an observatory ; Edenmore, a neat mansion, in a small but handsome demesne, on the south bank of the Fin ; ■VN'oodlands, a modem residence ; Glenmore, a mansion in improved grounds ; Curcam, the seat of the Stewart family ; and Cloghan Lodge, the occasional residence of Sir T. C. Style, Bart., near the romantic waterfall and salmon-leap of this name on the Fin.

   Internet Archive topographicaldic02inlewi, Chapter 302

4. Baron Boyle of Youghal title conferred 1616

   Youghal · town · Cork · 1616

   The Earl of Cork and Orrery, among his inferior titles in the Irish peerage, enjoys that of Baron Boyle of Youghal, conferred in September 1616.

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   are of extraordinary thickness : among them is one said to have been that of Coppinger, the mayor who was hanged before his own door ; also one in which Cromwell took up his residence during his stay at Youghal. A great quantity of silver coins was found here in 1830 ; the number could not be ascertained, but more than 400 oz. were sold as old silver in Cork ; they were mostly pence and half groats of Edward I., and also some halfpennies of the same reign. In 1818, several pieces of stamped pewter of the size of halfcrowns and shillings were found near the walls, which had evidently been made and passed as money. Many remains of crosses, croziers, and other ornaments, worn by the monks and friars, were found in 1817, when sinking the foundations for the chapel of ease, on the site of the old South Abbey. On the old Cork road, near Mary Ville, the property of Mr. Taylor, are the remains of an ancient Danish fort, which runs under ground nearly a mile. There are two chalybeate springs, one on the Spa road near the fever hospital, and the other at the quarry near the Waterford road, which are but seldom used. The Earl of Cork and Orrery, among his inferior titles in the peerage of Ireland, enjoys that of Baron Boyle, of Youghal, conferred upon his lordship in September, 1616.

   YOUGHAL-ARRA, a parish, in the union of Ne- XAGH, barony of Owney and Arra, county of Tippe- RARY, and province of Munster, 4^ miles (W.) from Nenagh, and on the river Shannon; containing SS'il inhabitants. This parish is situated at the junction of the counties of Clare and Galway, where the Shannon expands and forms Lough Derg ; it comprises 8356 6S4

   Internet Archive topographicaldic02inlewi, Chapter 416

5. Baron Kingsale title and De Courcy privileges

   Kinsale · town · Cork · 1181–1821

   Kinsale gives the ancient title of Baron Kingsale to the De Courcy family, originally created in 1181. The premier baron of Ireland holds the privilege of wearing his hat in the royal presence, asserted by John Baron Kingsale before George IV in 1821.

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   There were formerly an abbey of Canons Regular, of which Colgan says St. Gobban, disciple of St. Ailbe, was abbot in the 7th century ; and an abbey of Carmelite friars, founded, and dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary, by Robert Fitz-Richard Balrain, in 1334 ; but there are no remains of either. On the promontory on the opposite side of the river, are extensive remains of the old fortress of Castle-ni-Park ; it was of hexagonal form, with bastions at the angles : the towers, intrenchments, and fosse are nearly entire. Of the town walls, which were destroyed in 1690, three of the gates were remaining till near the close of the last century ; Nicholas-gate was removed in 1794, Friars-gate in 1796, and Cork-gate in 1S05 : a small portion of the last may still be seen, on the north side of Cork-street ; and in Newman-place may be traced the only portion of the walls now remaining. Near the village of Scilly, and near Charles Fort, are valuable chalybeate springs, formerly much resorted to, and still generally regarded as an excellent tonic. This town gives the very ancient title of Baron Kingsale to the family of De Courcy, originally created in 1181. His lordship is premier baron of Ireland ; he has the privilege (granted by King John to De Courcy, Earl of Ulster,) of wearing his hat in the royal presence, which was asserted by the late John, Baron Kingsale, at Dublin Castle, before his late Majesty George IV., on his visit to Ireland in August, 18'21. He has also the privilege of having a cover laid for him at the royal table at coronations, and on all other state occasions.

   Internet Archive topographicaldic02inlewi, Chapter 59

6. Baron of Lixnaw title held by Lord Kerry as Captain of his Nation

   Lixnaw · town · Kerry · 1551–1553

   Thomas, sixteenth lord or baron of Kerry, was styled 'Captain of his Nation' even in the reign of Edward VI, demonstrating the persistence of Gaelic legal customs in the old palatinates. He held his parliamentary seat by the title of Baron of Lixnaw.

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   nobleman, however, brought upon him for a time some jealous persecution by the officers of the crown. In 1345, the earl having presumed to summon a parliament in opposition to that called by the lord-justice. Sir Ralph Ufford, the latter overran aud seized upon the whole of his possessions, which were not restored to him until 1352. In 13SS, Gerald, Earl of Desmond, was formally appointed keeper of the peace in the counties of Kerry and Limerick, with very extensive powers and authority, in conjunction with Patrick Fox. In 1386, we find John Fitz-Gerald, Earl of Desmond, made sheriff of the Crosses of Kerry ; being the lands of the Church within its limits, in which the king's ordinary jurisdiction had course. James, Earl of Desmond, about 1425, as lord of the liberties of Kerry, entered into a deed with Patrick Fitz-Maurice Fitz- John, Lord Kerry, " captain or head of his nation," whereby the latter was bound to answer to the earl and his heirs at his assizes. James, the 15th earl, surrendered, by deed in the chancery of Ireland, his old family prerogative of exemption from attendance on a parliament summoned in any walled town, except at his pleasure ; and covenanted that he would suffer the laws of England to be executed in his county, that he would assist the king's judges in their circuits, and permit subsidies to be raised upon his followers ; but these conditions were never fulfilled either by himself or his successors. Thomas, sixteenth lord or baron of Kerry, is styled even in the 5th of Edward VI., " Captain of his nation ; " an extraordinary mark of the absence of English laws of property and society in this as well as the other old palatinates down to that period. He held his seat in parliament by the title of Baron of Lixnaw.

   Internet Archive topographicaldic02inlewi, Chapter 6

7. Baronscourt, seat of the Marquess of Abercorn

   Baronscourt · townland · Tyrone

   Baronscourt, near Newtown-Stewart, is the seat of the Marquess of Abercorn, a stately mansion in a widely extended demesne with romantic scenery, three spacious lakes, and fine timber. The limestone found on its lands is of remarkably fine quality for building.

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   The town consists of three principal and three smaller streets, and contains 350 houses, neat and well built ; the principal streets are paved, and the inhabitants are amply supplied with water from a spring at the southwestern end of the town, conveyed by pipes to the more respectable houses, and into public reservoirs in several parts of the town for the supply of the poorer inhabitants. In the main street are two good hotels. A considerable trade is derived from the situation of the place on a great public thoroughfare ; and many of the inhabitants are emploj'ed in the numerous limestone and freestone quarries in the neighbourhood, which are extensively worked : the limestone found on the lands of Baronscourt is of remarkably fine quahty for building. In the excise arrangements the town is within the district of Londonderry. The market, on Monday, is amply supplied with every kind of agricultural produce, and with unbleached linen : fairs, numerously attended, are held on the last Monday in every month, chiefly for cattle, sheep, and pigs. A small constabulary police force is stationed in the town, and petty-sessions are held monthly. The church is a large structure on a gentle eminence, and has a lofty and well-proportioned octagonal spire, which was added to it in 1803, in the time of the Rev. G. Hall, then rector, and afterwards Bishop of^ Dromore. There are also a Roman Catholic chapel, two places of worship for Presbyterians and two for Wesleyan Methodists, and a dispensary. In the town are the remains of the castle, which, with the exception of the roof, is nearly entire, forming a noble and highly interesting ruin. In the vicinity is Baronscourt, the seat of the Marquess of Abercorn, a stately mansion, situated in a widely extended demesne combining much romantic and beautiful scenery, embellished with three spacious lakes, and enriched with fine timber. Moyle House, Newtown- Stewart Castle, and Cross House, are also in the neighbourhood. Adjoining one end of the bridge is an ancient fort thrown up to defend the ford of the river ; there is a similar one at Ardstraw bridge, and also at Moyle to guard the ford of the river Glenally. Numerous other forts in the neighbourhood, and various cairns, are noticed in the article on Ardstraw.

   Internet Archive topographicaldic02inlewi, Chapter 215

8. Baronstown House built by Anthony Malone

   Baronstown · townland · Westmeath

   Baronstown is a principal seat in the parish of Kilbixy, built by the Right Honourable Anthony Malone. Other notable seats in the parish include Tristernagh, Rath, Cummerstown, and Carrickbawn.

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   plantations that extend to Lough Iron, which is one of its boundaries, and is a mile in length by half a mile in breadth, but very shallow. The land is arable and pasture, with a small quantity of bog : there is some limestone. The principal seats are, Baronstown, which was built by the Rt. Hon. Anthony Malone ; Tristernagh ; Rath ; Cummerstown ; and Carrickbawn. The living is a curacy, in the diocese of Meath, and in the patronage of Sir J. B. Piers, Bart., in whom the rectory is impropriate : the tithe rent-charge is £8'2. 10. The church is a handsome building, erected iu 1*98, at a cost of £10,000, of which £900 were a gift from the Board of First Fruits ; the remainder was given by the late Lord Sunderlin, who also gave the organ. There is a glebe-house, for the erection of which the Board of First Fruits, in 18l6, granted £450 as a gift and £50 as a loau ; the glebe comprises '20 acres. In the Roman Catholic divisions this parish is united with that of Templeoran, and is also called Sonna ; there are two chapels in the union, of which that of Kilbixy is in Ballinacargy. At Rath is a loan fund j also a society for spinning yarn, supported by subscriptions. Edmund Malone, the celebrated commentator on Shakspeare, is interred here, and the Malone family have a handsome mausoleum near the church. At Temple- Cross are the ruins of an ancient chapel. — See Ballinacargy.

   Internet Archive topographicaldic02inlewi, Chapter 15

9. Barony of Mullingar title and the Petit and Schomberg families

   Mullingar · town · Westmeath · 1690–1702

   The head of the Petit family was anciently styled Baron of Mullingar. The same title was later conferred by William III on Schomberg, linking the place to both native and post-Jacobite aristocratic history.

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   are interred ; at Beardstown are the ruins of a fortress, and also at Balthrasna : several coins and ornaments of gold have been found in the neighbourhood, and, in a bog near the town, a torques of pure gold weighing 1 1 oz. The head of the family of Petit was anciently styled Baron of IMullingar, which title was also conferred by William HI. on Schomberg.

   MULLINS, ST., a parish, in the poor-law union of New Ross, partly in the barony of Bantry, county of Wexford, but chiefly in that of Lower St. Mullins, county of Carlow, and province of Leinster, 4 miles (S. by E.) from Graigue ; on the road from Ross to Graigue and Borris, and on the river Barrow ; containing 6769 inhabitants. Its name is derived from the ancient monastery founded by St. Moling or Mullin, at a place called Aghacainid, subsequently Teighmolin, or " St. Mulhn's House," about the year 632, or, according to some historians, in the middle of the century. St. Moling, being a native of this part of the island, and one of the royal race of Leinster, was afterwards made bishop of Ferns. In 951 the church was plundered by the Danes, and the abbey was destroyed by fire in 1 138. The remains of the ancient edifices, and the present parish church, occupy a beautiful situation on the eastern bank of the river Barrow, at a spot where its banks are finely elevated, on the opposite side well wooded, and where a small stream merges into it from a deep defile that extends to the church from the village of Glynn, presenting some picturesque scenes. The parish comprises 21,201 statute acres, of which 998 are common, 423 woodland, 67 1 waste, 1475 bog, and the remainder arable ; it derives considerable facility for the transit of its produce from the Barrow navigation. Road-sessions are held at Glascany ; and fairs at St. Mullins on June igtli, July 25th, Sept, 8th, and Nov. 1st, for the sale of general farming stock.

   Internet Archive topographicaldic02inlewi, Chapter 186

10. Barony of Trough characterised by moory soil

    Trough · barony · Monaghan

    The greater portion of the barony of Trough is pervaded by moory soil that is reclaimable but difficult to work. The subsoil is stiff and the shallow mossy loam imbibes moisture like a sponge, becoming nearly impassable after rain.

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    The undulating surface of the county produces a great variety of soil. The low lands of the north are generally wet and moory, particularly near the foot of the mountains ; yet even in this district are some exceptions, for amid the very poorest tracts several gentle elevations of limestone are found, and in the valleys are extensive deposits of marl. The moory soil is every where reclaimable ; though the subsoil is stiff and the shallow and mossy loam on its surface imbibes the moisture like a sponge, so that after a fall of rain it is nearly impassable for cattle, and a few dry days harden the surface so as to render it nearly impenetrable to a plough. This character pervades the greater portion of the barony of Trough. The central district, comprehending the depressed land between the Slievebeagh and Crieve mountains, is far superior to any other part of the county in point of fertility ; it is interspersed with beautiful lakes, is well watered with streams, has a sufficiency of bog, and in richness and natural capability may vie with some of the best improved lands in the north of Ireland. A vein of peculiarly excellent land runs from Glaslough, by Tyhallon, Monaghan, Scotstown, and Clones, into Fermanagh at Corren. The southern extremity of the county consists for the most part of a rich and highly productive soil, based on a substratum of limestone ; and, in some places, a deep loam highly improvable by calcareous manure. The soil in the intermediate district varies much in quality, and is disposed very irregularly ; even in several parts of the same field it is seen sometimes to vary extremely, being deep and argillaceous at one spot, a gravelly grit at another, exhibiting at a third a stiff clay, and at a fourth a party-coloured mixture of red and greenish gravel : yet, in general character, it approximates nearly to that of the northern part. The western side of the county is a rich but shallow loam, in its natural state spongy, wet, and overspread with rushes, but capable of a high degree of improvement by manuring.

    Internet Archive topographicaldic02inlewi, Chapter 160

11. Barrington's Hospital on George's-quay, founded 1829

    George's Quay · street · Limerick · 1829–1831

    Barrington's Hospital on George's-quay in Limerick was founded in 1829 by Sir Joseph Barrington and his sons. Built at an expense of over £4,000, it was given to the city and opened in November 1831, containing six large wards capable of holding 60 beds.

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    The County Hospital was founded in 1759 by the exertions of the late Rev. Deane Hoare, vicar-general, and of Mr. Vandeleur, surgeon, aided by the Pery and Hartstonge families. The present building on the new Cork road, which was completed in 1811, at an expense of £7100, has a front of 114 feet, and contains 10 wards for males and 6 for females ; the number of patients admitted in a recent year was 632, at an expense of £1520. Barrington's Hospital, called by the act of the 1 1th of George IV. the " City of Limerick Infirmary, " was founded in 1829 by Sir Joseph Barrington, Bart., and his sons, Matthew, Daniel, Croker, and Samuel. This hospital, built on George's-quay at an expense of upwards of £4000, contains six large wards, capable of holding 60 beds ; the number at present is 35. It was given by the founders to the city, and opened under the new arrangement in Nov. 1831 ; it is supported by voluntary subscriptions and a grant from government. Attached to the institution is a good medical library : a wing was lately built for a lying-in hospital, and another for a fever hospital. St. John's Fever and Lock Hospital was founded in 1781 by Lady Hartstonge : in a recent year it had I6OI patients; the expenses were £1520. 10. The Lying-in Hospital, opened in Nelson-street in 1812, under the control of a board of trustees, is supported by subscriptions and the interest of a bequest of £1000 from Mrs. White : upwards of 400 patients have been annually admitted into it since its establishment. There is also a dispensary in Limerick. The District Lunatic Asylum, for the counties of Limerick, Clare, and Kerry, is a very extensive edifice on the New Cork road, completed in 1826 : it is 429 feet by 314; the centre forms an octagon, from which four wings diverge, containing cells for patients. It was originally intended only for 150 curable lunatics; but an additional building has been erected for those con-

    LIME

    Internet Archive topographicaldic02inlewi, Chapter 79

12. Barrow river scenery near New Ross

    New Ross · town · Wexford

    The scenery on the Barrow in the vicinity of New Ross is described as marked by grander features than the Slaney and can scarcely be surpassed, making it one of the notable landscapes of the county.

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    This district is much detached from the rest of Ireland, having the sea on its eastern and southern sides, and the estuary of the Suir and the river of Ross along the greater part of its western border, the remainder of which and the northern side are hemmed in by a lofty range of mountain land, through which there are but few lines of communication. The mountains on the side of the county of Wicklow extend from .S7ierebiiii, a beautiful conical hill covered with verdure, to the valley through which the Slaney flows, the river dividing this part of the range from the still more extensive and lofty chain of Mount Leiiisler and the Hlachstciirs, three remarkable pointed summits of which are distinguished by the names of the "Leaps of Ossian's Greyhounds. " Except on the confines, there are no high or extensive ridges of mountains; but the surface is diversified with many single hills, of considerable height, and, towards the south-east, the mountain of Forth forms a ridge about 500 feet above the level of the sea, extendmg ,5 or 6 miles in a north-eastern and south-western direction. The general surface between these single hills does not expand into large plains : the land declines from the primitive mountains on the north towards the sea in unequal elevations, and, where the depositions of alluvial substances are considerable, the surface has a beautifully waving outline, and is enlivened by numerous gently winding streams. The Staiiey, which traverses the northern and eastern part, presents a succession of highly picturesque views, beautifully ornamented with remains of antiquity, and with modern mansions, villas, and plantations. The scenery on the Barrow, in the vicinity of New Ross, is marked by grander features, and can scarcely be surpassed. The southern baronies of Bargy and Forth, which are shut out from the remainder of the county by the Forth mountain, consist of low land that owes its attractions more to human labour and ingenuity than to the gifts of nature. The entire county presents nothing meriting the name of lake, except Laity's Island Lake, in Forth, which claims notice, not from its extent or beauty, but from the singularity of its formation, receiving several small rivulets and having no natural outlet, so that once in every three or four years an opening is cut through the sand-bank which separates it from the sea.

    Internet Archive topographicaldic02inlewi, Chapter 393

13. Barry's Hall mansion near Timoleague

    Timoleague · town · Cork · 1737–1837

    Barry's Hall is a large mansion near Timoleague, erected by one of the Barry family about a century before 1837, and surrounded by a considerable plantation.

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    The parish comprises 2873 statute acres : the land, though in general good, is in some places light and stony ; it is chiefly under tillage, and produces abimdani crops of wheat, oats, and potatoes. Agriculture was till very lately carried on under the old system, but is improving rapidly through the spirited exertions and example of the proprietor : green crops have been advantageously introduced, and several of the farmers have adopted the use of the Scotch plough and other improved agricultural implements. The town consists of one long irregular street, with another diverging from it (parallel with the old abbey) which was built by Col. Travers and contains many comfortable slated cottages, principally inhabited by weavers ; the place comprises about 120 houses, the greater part modern and well built, and has a neat court-house, where petty-sessions for the district are held every Monday, and a manor court belonging to Lord Carbery occasionally. This is a constabulary ,police station. A market for pigs is held every Thursday ; and fairs for cattle on March 2Sth, July 5th, Aug. 21st, and Dec. 7th. Although the chief occupation of the inhabitants is agriculture, many are yet engaged in weaving coarse sheeting, and about 50 looms are employed in the town iu weaving cotton cords. At Spital-Hill is a flour-mill, where 6000 barrels of wheat are annually ground, principally for the neighbouring towns. The country would be remarkably beautiful but for the want of plantations, which defect, it is hoped, will in a few years be effectually remedied : the late Col. Travers, of Timoleague House, planted 50 acres of land on his demesne, close to the town. Barry's Hall is a large mansion, erected by one of the Barry family about a century since, and surrounded by a considerable plantation : among other seats are, Umera, a beautiful house on the banks of the river; 4 E 2

    Internet Archive topographicaldic02inlewi, Chapter 333

14. Barry Yelverton, Lord Avonmore, born at Kanturk

    Kanturk · town · Cork

    The celebrated lawyer Barry Yelverton, afterwards Lord Avonmore, was born at Kanturk in County Cork.

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    sioners. The glebe-house, in the vicinity, was erected in 1S18, the Board of First Fruits having granted £450 and a loan of £50 ; attached to it is a glebe of 10 acres, subject to a rent of £1 '2 per annum. The church is a small structure with a square embattled tower surmounted by pinnacles, built in 1789, the same Board giving £200. In the Roman Catholic divisions the town is the head of a district, which comprises about one-third of the parish of Clonfert and the whole of the ecclesiastical parish of Kilcorcoran. The chapel is a remarkably neat cruciform building, erected on a site l)resented by the Earl of Egmont ; the chapel-yard, which is tastefully planted, and forms an agreeable promenade for the inhabitants, is entered by a handsome gateway of pillars of hewn stone, surmounted by richlycrocketed pinnacles, the work of a native artist, who also executed a beautiful font for the chapel. At Coolavota is a Roman Catholic chapel for the rural district. The parochial school is under the superintendence of the Protestant clergyman, and a large building for a second public school was lately erected on a site given by the Earl of Egmont : there are also two national schools. The poor-law union workhouse was opened July 18, 1S44, and will accommodate SOO paupers. At Curragh was a castle that belonged to the APCarthys, on the site of which is now a modern mansion : near it i.s a strong chalybeate spring. The celebrated lawyer, Barry Yelverton, afterwards Lord Avonmore, was born at Kanturk.

    Internet Archive topographicaldic02inlewi, Chapter 1

15. Basalt cap of Binevenagh over 900 feet thick

    near Binevenagh · mountain or mountain range · Derry

    The covering of basalt reaches its greatest thickness on the north of the county, with the cap of Benyvenagh measuring more than 900 feet thick, part of an extensive basaltic tract between the Roe and the Bann.

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    Geologically, the county is- composed of two great districts, divided into two nearly equal portions by the course of the Roe. The western is the extensive mountain tract reaching from that river to Strabane, in which mica-slate predominates in such proportions as to compose nine-tenths of the whole ; it is accompanied by primitive limestone in the lower districts, especially in those bordering on the vale of the Roc. On the eastern bank of the river this system of mountains is succeeded by a range of secondary heights, reposing on and concealing the mica-slate, which dips under them eastward. On these is piled a vast area of basalt, forming the basis of almost the entire country between the Roe and the Bann. These basaltic strata dip with the fall of the hills towards the north-cast, to meet the opposite dip of the strata on the other side of the Bann. forming the other half of this extensive basaltic tract. The covering of basalt appears to acquire its greatest thickness on the north, where, as in the cap of Benyevenagh, it is more than 900 feet thick. Between the basalt and the subjacent mica-slate, are found, in close succession, many of the most important formations which occupy a great part of the southern and eastern counties of England. Next to the basalt (descending westward towards Lough Foyle and the vale of the Roe, and to the rich lands in the vale of Moyola and its vicinity) is found chalk, in beds of an aggregate thickness of about 200 feet, analogous to the lower beds of the English chalk formation, and therefore approaching in character to white limestone, being used and commonly designated as such. Even in its fossils and organic remains, this chalk is perfectly identified with that of England. Next is seen mulatto, precisely analogous to the green sandstone formations of England : the mulatto rests immediately on a lias limestone, blue and argillaceous, disposed in small beds alternating with slate-clay, and distinguished by ammonites, gryphites, and other fossil remains. The lias, in turn, reposes, as in England, on beds of red and variegated marl, containing gj-psum, and even distinguished by numerous salt springs ; and this marl is underlaid by a thick deposit of red and variegated sandstone, containing clay galls, and incumbent on the mica- slate formation. Sometimes, however, the mulatto and lias are entirely wanting ; and the chalk may be seen immediately resting on the sandstone, both of which are constant and continuous. The deep valleys separating the detached eminences of the basalt region, afford abundant evidence of their formation in excavations of part of the solid strata by some vast convulsions or operations of nature. North-east of the source of the Roe is a small detached district of micaslate, nearly surrounded by the basaltic ridges of Benbradagh and Cragnashoack, and forming the entire mass of the mountain of Coolcoscrahan. The mountain limestone, which is micaceous and granular, occurs to the most remarkable extent on the north-west side of Carntogher mountain, in Bennady glen, near the old church at Dungiven, at Banagher, near Claudy, near Newtown-Limavady, and on Slieve-Gallion mountain, where it contains crystallised hornblende in abundance. Hornblende slate occurs in Bennady glen, Aglish glen, and the bed of the Roe river near Dungiven, where it is contiguous to the primitive limestone. Porphyry is the

    Internet Archive topographicaldic02inlewi, Chapter 95

16. Basaltic columns at Rathlin Island

    near Rathlin Island · island or archipelago · Antrim

    The eastern side of Rathlin Island features beautiful ranges of basaltic columns resembling those of the Giants' Causeway, differing only in dimensions and arrangement. Perpendicular, horizontal, and curved column arrangements are found in the same places. Hard chalk beds with phosphoric qualities appear near Church Bay, intersected by basaltic dikes.

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    eastern side especially the rock forms beautiful ranges of columns, differing from those of the Giants' Causeway only in their dimensions, and in the greater variety of their arrangement, being found in the same places perpendicular, horizontal, and curved. Considerable beds of hard chalk extend for some distance along the southern shore ; and in some places, as near Church bay, where they are intersected by basaltic dikes, the hard chalk or limestone is found to possess phosphoric qualities : beds of puzzolana are also found here, and, on the shores, a substance resembling pumice-stone. Mr. Hamilton traces a vein of coal and ironstone passing under the sea from the mines at Ballycastle to this island, which he thinks has been separated from the opposite coast by some convulsion of nature.

    Internet Archive topographicaldic02inlewi, Chapter 251

17. Basaltic columns in Arloags valley

    near Skerry · parish · Antrim

    Fine basaltic columns of four, five, six, and seven sides stand in the valley of the river Arloags near the bridge in Skerry parish. They are described as exactly like those of the Giant's Causeway.

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    The ruins of the ancient church, in which were interred many of the ancestors of Viscount O'Neill, are situated on the summit of a conical hill, and form a conspicuous object for many miles round ; there are also numerous forts, raths, and artificial caverns, in the parish. It is said that small particles of gold have been found in the rills riinning from the hills where the greenstone is obtained ; and in the valley of the river Arloags, near the bridge, are some fine basaltic columns

    of four, five, six, and seven sides, exactly like tho.se of the Giants' causeway. Above the bridge, on the same stream, is a picturesque waterfall ; and about a mile from Claggan is a curious cave, formed of large stones in appearance similar to those of Druidical monuments, and from which the townland on which it is situated is supposed to have derived its name : several of the stones have been removed by the peasantry, and the plough has contributed to deface this monument of ancient times.

    Internet Archive topographicaldic02inlewi, Chapter 283

18. Battle at Ballysadere between O'Nial and De Burgo forces

    Ballysadare · townland · Sligo · 1200–1250

    A great battle was fought at Assadar, now Ballysadere, in which O'Nial, dynast of Tyrone, was defeated with great slaughter while attempting to restore Cathal Croobhderg to the throne of Connaught against Charles Carragh, aided by William de Burgo.

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    This county, in the time of Ptolemy, was included in the territory of the Xagiutice, the chief city of which tribe, Nagnata, is supposed by some to have been near the site of the town of Sligo. It was afterwards possessed by a branch of the O'Conors, called for the sake of distinction O'Conor Sligo : the families of O'Hara, O Dowd, Mac Donagh, and Mac Ferbis, were heads of septs in different districts. After the landing of the English under Henry II., it gradually fell, together with the rest of Connaught, into the hands of the great English leaders, of whom the Burghs or De Burgos were the most powerful in these parts. Yet this revolution was not effected without a protracted struggle, in the course of which a great battle was fought at Assadar, now Ballysadere, where O'Nial, dynast of Tyrone, was defeated with great slaughter in an attempt to restore Cathal Croobhderg to the throne of Connaught, from which he had been driven by Charles Carragh, aided by William de Burgo. Not many years after, the site of the present town of Sligo being deemed a suitable position for defence, a castle was erected there in 1'245 by Maurice Fitz-Gerald, then lord-deputy, which was destroyed in 1271, by O'Donel, but rebuilt in the beginning of the ensuing century by Richard, Earl of Ulster. The county was regarded as part of Connaught, which, with the exception of Roscommon, was considered by the English as a single county, until the 11th of Elizabeth, when the proiince was divided into se\en counties, of which Sligo made one. About the same time, O'Conor Sligo had tendered his submission to Sir Henry Sidney, lord-deputy, and had obtained a grant of his lands under the crown of England at a rent of £100 per annum, with a covenant to pay five horses and 130 beeves every Michaelmas, in lieu of cess, and to bring twenty horsemen and forty footsoldiers into the field whenever summoned to attend a general hosting. During the disturbances by which the north and west of Ireland were distracted at the close of Elizabeth's reign, several actions took place in the county, in one of which the monastery of Ballymote was burned by the Irish. But the most remarkable incident connected with the county at that period was the defeat and death of Sir Conyers Clifford, who had succeeded Sir Richard Bingham in the presidency of Connaught. He had been sent by the Earl of Essex to Belkek, at the head of 1400 foot, and a body of horse consisting of 100 English and a number of Irish auxiharies : in proceeding through the Curlew mountains, he pushed forward with his infantry through a defile, where he was suddenly attacked by O'Rourk, chieftain of Breffny, at the head of about 200 men, with such impetuosity that he was killed on the spot, together with several of his officers and 120 men ; the rest being driven back upon the cavalry, whose appearance checked the pursuit, and gave the fugitives an opportunity of escaping without further loss. 520

    Internet Archive topographicaldic02inlewi, Chapter 288

19. Battle at Liffer fortress between Hugh O'Donell and the English

    Lifford · townland · Donegal

    An English commander observed disorder in the camp of Hugh O'Donell and advised an attack, but after an obstinate battle the English retreated to their fortifications. Hugh O'Donell soon after led his forces into Connaught. The present town first arose under the protection of this English fortress.

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    place, observing some disorder in the camp of Hugh, advised the English to attack it ; but after an obstinate battle, in which many were killed on both sides, the EngUsh retreated to their fortifications, and Hugh O'Donell soon after led his forces into Connaught to oppose the young Earl of Clanricarde. Under the protection of this English fortress the present town first arose, and in 1603 had attained such importance that a market was granted by James I. to Sir Henry Docwra, Knt., governor of Lough Foyle. In 1611, the "village of Liffer," with the fortress and about 500 acres of land adjoining, were, on the settlement of Ulster, given by James to Sir Richard Hansard, with right to hold two fairs in the town ; on condition that he should, within five years, assign convenient portions of land to sixty inhabitants for the erection of houses with gardens, and ■200 acres for a common ; and that he should also set apart 100 acres for the keep of 50 horses, should His Majesty think proper to place a garrison of horse in the town. The same monarch, in the 10th of his reign, granted to the inhabitants a charter of incorporation, under the designation of the " Warden, Free Burgesses, and Commonalty of the Borough of Lififer;" from which time its progress was gradual.

    Internet Archive topographicaldic02inlewi, Chapter 73

20. Battle at Lower Glanmire between mutinous regiments

    near Glanmire · town · Cork · 1716

    In 1716 a battle was fought at Lower Glanmire between a regiment that had turned out for arrears of pay and a regiment brought from Cove with cannon to reduce them. After an obstinate conflict the mutiny was suppressed and three ringleaders were shot by sentence of a court martial.

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    RATHCOONEY, a parish, in the union of Cork, barony and county of Cork, and province of Munster, 4 miles (E. N. E.) from Cork, on the coach-road to Dublin ; containing, with the village of Glanniire, 3376 inhabitants. In I7I6 a battle was fought at Lower Glanmire, in this parish, between a regiment that had turned out for arrears of pay and posted themselves in the village, and a regiment which was brought up from Cove with two pieces of cannon to reduce the former to submission, which, after an obstinate conflict, they effected, when three of the ringleaders were shot by sentence of a court martial. The parish, which is bounded on the east and north-east by the river Glanmire, and on the south by the estuary of the Lee, comprises 5152 statute acres, chiefly under tillage. The soil is light and shallow on the hills, but richer on the lower grounds ; the system of agriculture is improving; there is very little waste land, and scarcely any bog. Sea weed and sand, which are obtained with facility, are the principal manures ; and the crops are in general of good quality. There are numerous gentlemen's seats and good houses in the immediate vicinity of the village of Glanmire. The woollen manufacture was established here in 1822, by Messrs. Lyons and Hanly, whose factory, in a secluded part of the vale of Glanmire, contains 30 looms, and affords employment to 200 persons. The bleach-greens of Messrs. Thorley and Son, at Annasilla, employ 100 persons ; and the St. Patrick's beetling-mills, belonging to the same firm, 100 more. The produce of these manufactories and others in the neighbourhood is sent by land carriage to Cork, the road being the principal entrance into Cork from Dublin, Clonmel, Kilkenny, and Cashel. At this point the road was formerly hilly and dangerous : to avoid the hills a new line was lately sought for, intended to pass over the Glanmire river and along its banks, to join that part of the road running along the side of the Lee into Cork ; thereby forming a perfect level, and a most delightful drive. Its execution was for a time opposed, but the road has recently been effected, though not in the line at first proposed ; it runs along the west side of the river, but does not cross it, and joins the old road about five miles and a half from Cork. Spring Hill Mills produce annually about 10,000 barrels on the average, and employ a considerable number of men.

    Internet Archive topographicaldic02inlewi, Chapter 246

21. Battle at Stradbally bridge

    Stradbally · town · Laois

    A battle is said to have been fought at Stradbally bridge between the first settlers of the Cosby family and a native sept, in which the leaders on both sides were killed.

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    The parish comprises 2466|- statute acres : the land is good, and much of it in demesne ; the system of agriculture is improved, and very excellent limestone is procured, which is used for building and other purposes. The vicinity of the town is beautifully varied. Stradbally Hall is a handsome mansion adjoining the town, and situated in a highly embellished demesne, within the limits of which was the ancient castle of the O'Mores. Brockley Park, formerly occupied by the Earl of Roden, is pleasantly situated on the opposite side of the town. In the vicinity are also Ballykilcavan, the seat and improved demesne of Sir Edward Welsh, Bart, i Kellyville ; Timogue ; Ballymanus ; Moyanna ; Vicarstown ; Rahinduffe ; Derry ; Lohihoa ; Clopook ; and Esker. The living is a vicarage, in the diocese of Leighlin, united by act of council, in 1*74, to the vicarage of Moyanna, and in the patronage of T. P. Cosby, Esq. ; the rectory is impropriate in the Provost and Fellows of Trinity College, Dublin. The tithe rentcharge of the parish is £156. 10. 8., of which £104. 12. are payable to the impropriators, and the remainder to the vicar. The glebe-house is a good residence, and the glebe comprises 12 acres; the gross tithe of the benefice of the vicar is £ 1 55. 15. The church, a handsome building in the town, was erected in 1764 by subscription; the Ecclesiastical Commissioners recently granted £321 for its repairs. In the Roman Catholic divisions the parish is the head of a district, comprising also the parishes of Moyanna, Corclone, Timogue, Fossey, and Kilcolmanbrook : the chapel in the town is a spacious edifice, and a handsome chapel has been erected at Timahoe in the Gothic style, capable of accommodating 4000 persons. A battle is said to have been fought at Stradbally bridge between the first settlers of the Cosby family and a native sept, in which the leaders on both 535

    Internet Archive topographicaldic02inlewi, Chapter 301

22. Battle between Danes and Irish at Cruise river, South Palmerstown

    Palmerstown · townland · Dublin

    At Cruise river in South Palmerstown a battle is said to have been fought between the Danes and the Irish, according to local tradition. The site is associated with the early medieval conflicts in the Dublin area.

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    most extensive and rich views ; besides which, there are several pleasing villas, including Riversdale, Brook Lawn, Palmerstown, and Bellgrove. The parish is a rectory, in the diocese of Dublin, forming part of the union of Chapelizod : the tithe rent-charge is £127. 10. In the Roman Catholic divisions the parish is part of the union of Lucan, Palmerstown, and Clondalkin, and contains a chapel ; the priest is rural dean over his own union and those of Maynooth, Celbridge, and Saggard. On the tovvnland of Irishtown are the remains of an old castle, clothed with ivy, near which coins and bullets have been found ; and at Cruise river, a battle is said to have been fought between the Danes and the Irish. The parish gives the title of Viscount Palmerston to the family of Temple.

    PARIS, LITTLE, an island, in the parish of Trory, union of Enniskillen, barony of Lurg, county of Fermanagh, and province of Ulster ; containing 9 inhabitants. It is situated in Lough Erne.

    Internet Archive topographicaldic02inlewi, Chapter 228

23. Battlebridge village and six-arch bridge over the Shannon

    Battle Bridge · population centre · Roscommon

    Battlebridge is a small rising village on the shore of the Shannon at the end of a six-arch stone bridge on the road to Leitrim. The bridge measures 150 feet in length and 13 feet in width.

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    TUMNA, or Toemonia, a parish, in the union of Carrick-on-Shannon, barony of Boyle, county of R0SC0M.MON, and province of Connaugut, I5 mile (\V.) from Carrick-on-Shannon, on the road t(j Boyle, and on the river Shannon; containing 4180 inhabitants. This parish comprises 9188| statute acres, mostly good laud, though there is much bog ; agriculture is generally in a backward state : limestone and freestone abound. There is a canal from Lough Allen to Carrick. to avoid the shoals. A large portion of the parish is occupied by the Coote Hall estate, the improved property of the Barton family, presenting a great contrast to the surrounding lauds. Some of the tenantry are engaged in the woollen and cotton manufactures, such as coarse flannels and as striped woollen and cotton stuffs used for under garments. The Shannon bounds the parish on the east, and on the shore is the small rising village of Battlebridge at the end of a bridge on the road to the village and county of Leitrim ; this bridge is of 6 arches, 150 feet in length and 13 in width. On the south side of the parisb are the upper and lower Oakford loughs, through which the Boyle water descends into the Shannon. Near the banks of the Boyle stands Old-Coote Hall (with a wretched dependent village), formerly a place of strength, of which a northern round tower with a conical roof forms an appendage to the farmhouse into which the buildings have been converted : the surrounding curtain walls include ruins of various other old buildings. The gentlemen's scats are, Hughestown, standing immediately on a large lake formed by the Boyle water ; Woodbrook ; Lakeview ; and Springfield, the parish is a vicarage, in the diocese of Elphin, forming part of the union of Ardclare ; the rectory is impropriate in Viscount Lorton, and the tithe rent-charge is £105, half of which is payable to the impropriator, and half to the vicar. In the Roman Catholic divisions the parish is partly in the district of Killuken, also called Crogban and Ballinameen, and partly in that of Ardcarne or Crossna, and contains a chapel : a school is maintained by the parish priest. Remains of an ancient church exist, with a cemetery attached ; and seven golden balls have been dug up near, of the size of an egg, supposed to have belonged to the church.

    Internet Archive topographicaldic02inlewi, Chapter 360

24. Battlefield house in Tumore

    Battlefield · townland · Sligo

    Battlefield is identified as one of the chief seats in Tumore parish, County Sligo. It represents a principal landed residence in the parish.

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    TUMORE, a parish, in the union of Boyle, barony of Corran, county of Sligo, and province of Connaught, 5 miles (X. W.) from Boyle, on the road to Ballymote ; containing 3319 inhabitants. It comprises 10,834 statute acres. The portion of the land which is under cultivation, both in tillage and pasture, is of superior quality and makes a good return, but there is a good deal of mountain and bog : limestone is abundant for all purposes. The chief seats are Battlefield and Mount Dodwell. The parish is a vicarage, in the diocese of Achonry, forming part of the union of Emlyfadd ; the rectory is impropriate in Sir Robert Gore Booth, Bart., and the tithe rent-charge is £-^220. 14., of which £9'2. 14. are payable to the impropriator, and the remainder to the vicar. In the Roman Catholic divisions the parish is the head of a district, called Keash, which comprises this parish and that of Drumratt : the chapel at Keash, in Tumore, is a large building in good repair. There is a place of worship belonging to a Presbyterian congregation at Granamore. The remains of an old church wifh a burial-ground are to be

    Internet Archive topographicaldic02inlewi, Chapter 360

25. Battle of Aghnaccan ford at Kilbeggan, 972

    Kilbeggan · town · Westmeath · 972

    In 972 a sanguinary battle was fought between the Irish and Danes at a ford on the river Brosna near the present bridge at Kilbeggan. The place was called Aghnaccan, meaning 'Ford of Heads,' from the numbers of slain that floated down the river.

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    KILBEGGAN, a market and post town, a parish, and formerly a parliamentary borough, in the union of TuLLAMORE, barony of Moycashel, county of West- Meath, and province of Leinster, 15 miles (E. by S.) from Athloue, and 44^ miles (W.) from Dublin ; on the river Brosna and the road from Dublin to Athlone ; containing 41S6 inhabitants, of whom 1910 are in the town. A monastery was founded here by St. Becan, son of Murchade, a contemporary of St. Columb, about the year 600. In 972, a sanguinary battle was fought between the Irish and Danes, at a ford on the river, near the present bridge, since called Aghnaccan, or the " Ford of Heads," from the numbers of the slain that floated down the river. In 1200, the monastery, which bad fallen into decay, was rebuilt by the family of Dalton, and dedicated to the Blessed Virgin ; and some Cistercian monks, from the abbey of Mellifont, were placed in it. After its dissolution, the house and its possessions, which were very extensive, were granted to the Lambart family, of whom Sir Oliver, afterwards Lord Lambart, in 1 606, obtained for the town the grant of a weekly market and an annual fair. In I6l2, James I. gave the inhabitants a charter ; and in 1620, Charles, son of Oliver, Lord Lambart, procured a grant of two additional fairs. During the disturbances of 179S, a party of insurgents was defeated near the town, after an obstinate engagement, by Colonel Blake, at the head of his regiment of Northumberland militia.

    The TOWN contains 372 houses, of which nearly onehalf are neatly built and slated. It is improving ; and a branch from the Grand Canal, which was recently cut to it, holds out prospects of the increase of its trade. There are a large distillery, a brewery, and two mills for flour and oatmeal, one of them extensive ; also a manufactory for tobacco and snuff. The market is on Saturday, and is a considerable mart for butter : fairs for live stock are held on March 25th, June I6th, Aug. 15th, and Oct. 28th. The market-house is a neat plain 19

    Internet Archive topographicaldic02inlewi, Chapter 14

26. Battle of Battlemount near Kilrush, Co. Kildare

    Battlemount · townland · Kildare · 1642

    In 1642, the Earl of Ormonde clashed with Lord Mountgarrett and other Catholic leaders near Kilrush. Ormonde's victory on a local eminence was considered highly significant and the site was subsequently named Battlemount.

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    KILRUSH, a parish, in the barony of West Ophaly, county of Kildahe, and province of Leinster, 6 miles (S. W.) from Kilcullcn, on the road to Athy ; containing 577 inhabitants. An abbey for Augustinian canons was founded here at the commencement of the thirteenth century by WiHiam le Mareschal, Earl of Pembroke, and subsisted till the Reformation. In 164'2, the Earl of Ormonde, returning from the relief of the royal fortresses in Kildare, was opposed on the high grounds of Kilrush and BuUhill, by Lord Mountgarrett and other Roman Catholic leaders, whom he entirely defeated on a neighbouring eminence since called Battlemount. This victory was considered so important that the English honse of commons voted him £500 for the purchase of a jewel, and petitioned the king to create him a Knight of the Garter. The parish comprises 4076| statute acres. It is a rectory, in the diocese of Kildare, forming part of the union of Ballysonan ; the tithe rent-charge is £166. 3. In the Roman Catholic divisions Kilrush is part of the district of Sancroft.

    KILRUSH, a parish, in the barony of Cranagh, union and county of Kilkenny, and province of Leinster, 1 mile (W.) from Freshford, on the road to Johnstown ; containing about 754 inhabitants. It is a rectory and vicarage, in the diocese of Ossory, forming part of the union of Aghoure. In the Roman Catholic divisions Kilrush is part of the district of Urlingford. In civil arrangements it is reckoned part of the parish of Clomantagh.

    Internet Archive topographicaldic02inlewi, Chapter 55

27. Battle of Knockbrack, 1651

    Knockbrack · townland · Cork · 1651

    In 1651 a desperate battle was fought at Knockbrack, or Knockiclashy, on the borders of Kilcorney parish in Cork, between parliamentary forces under Lord Broghill and those commanded by Lord Muskerry.

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    vince of Munster, 3 miles (E. S. E.), from Millstreet, on the Bogra road to Cork; containing I76I inhabitants, and comprising SS36 statute acres. Of this area 3474 acres consist of good arable land, and the remainder of mountain pasture. In 1651, a desperate battle was fought at Knockbrack, or Knockiclashy, on the borders of this parish, between the parliamentary forces under Lord Broghill and those commanded by Lord Muskerry. Towards the south and south-east the parish is mountainous, and on the east borders on the Bogra moors : good building-stone is found in several places. Kilcoruey House is an old mansion to ■which was formerly attached an extensive and finely wooded demesne. The living is a rectory and vicarage, in the diocese of Cloyne, and in the patronage of the Bishop : the tithe rent-charge is £110. 14. 6. There is neither church nor glebe-house, but a glebe of about 12 acres. In the Roman Catholic divisions the parish forms part of the district of Clonmeen : the chapel, a plain edifice, is situated on the road to Cork. Some vestiges of the old church still exist, in the burialground.

    Internet Archive topographicaldic02inlewi, Chapter 16

28. Battle of Knocknanuss: Lord Inchiquin's massacre

    Knocknanuss · townland · Cork

    Forces commanded by Mac Allisdrum surrendered but Lord Inchiquin ordered no quarter, resulting in the slaughter of the entire Irish army on the site, with total slain numbering no less than 4000.

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    manded by Mac Allisdrum, was at length forced to yield, both the leader and his men giving up their swords : but notwithstanding this submission, Lord Inchiquin having ordered that no quarter should be given, the whole were put to the sword, making tlic total number slain of the Irish army no less than 4000. The parish consists only of the townlauds of Subulter, and Knockniaoss or Knocknanuss ; and comprises 74'2 statute acres. The land is of good quality, and chiefly in tillage : limestone is found, and burnt for manure. For all civil purposes, and for the performance of clerical duties, the parish is considered part of Kilbrin. It is a rectory, in the diocese of Cloyne, forming the corps of the prebend of Subulter in the cathedral of St. Colman, Cloyne ; the tithe rent-charge is £4". 9. 6. In the Roman Catholic divisions the parish is part of the union or district of Kilbrin.

    SUMMERHILL, a post-town, in the parish of La- RACOR, union of Trim, barony of Lower Movfenragh, county of Me ATH, and province of Leinster, 5 miles (S. by E.) from Trim, and 17 (W. N. W.) from Dublin, by Dunboyne ; containing 47 houses, and '28* inhabitants. This town is pleasantly situated on the road from Dublin to Trim, by Kilcock, and also on that by Dunboyne, which latter road is nearer by three miles. It has a sub-post office under Kilcock and Trim, and is a chief constabulary police station ; petty-sessions are held on alternate Tuesdays, and fairs on April 30th, June 9th, Sept. 'i'ind, and Nov. '25th. Here is a Presbyterian meeting-house ; and contiguous to the town is Summerhill House, the seat of Lord Longford, situated in a noble demesne.

    Internet Archive topographicaldic02inlewi, Chapter 305

29. Battle of Knockninoss, 1647

    Knocknanuss · townland · Cork · 1647

    On November 13th, 1647, Knockninoss in the parish of Subulter was the scene of a desperate battle between Lord Inchiquin's forces (4000 foot, 1200 horse) and Lord Taafe's Irish army (7464 foot, 1076 horse). Inchiquin detached horse round to gain the summit, causing the Irish right wing and main body to flee.

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    SUBULTER, a parish, in the union of Kanturk, barony of Du hallow, county of Cork, and province of MuNSTER, 3 miles (E.) from Kanturk, near the road to Mallow ; containing 273 inhabitants. Knockninoss, in this parish, was, in 1647, the scene of a desperate battle between the forces of Lord Inchiquin and those of Lord Taafe. The former, having taken the field with 4000 foot and 1200 horse, on Nov. 13th encountered the Irish army, consisting of 7464 foot and IO76 horse, posted on the hill of Knockninoss. The English forces charged up the ascent : the Irish at first stood their ground, and forced their assailants before them, some of the Highlanders of Sir Alexander Mac Donell's or Mac Allisdrum's corps even driving part of them a considerable distance, and capturing their artillery and carriages ; but Lord Inchiquin having found means to detach a party of horse round, so as to gain the summit of the hill, the right wing, commanded by Lord Taafe, and a great part of the main body, fled. The left wing, also, com-

    SWAN

    Internet Archive topographicaldic02inlewi, Chapter 304

30. Battle of Magh-ailbee at Muckalee, 913

    Muckalee · townland · Kilkenny · 913

    Muckalee is supposed to be the Magh-ailbee where, according to Keating, Cormac King of Munster, the King of Ossory, and other chieftains were slain in 913. A burial ground marked by upright stones south-east of Purcell's hill marks where the slain were interred.

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    MUCKALEE, or Muckully, a parish, in the barony of Fassadining, union and county of Kilkenny, and province of Leinster, 3 miles (S.) from Castlecomer, on the road to Kilkenny, and on the river Dinin ; containing 1101 inhabitants. From the similarity of name, and its situation, it is supposed that this place was the Magh-ailbee where, according to Keating, Cormac, King of Munster, the King of Ossory, and various other chieftains, were slain in 913. A battle appears to have been fought in the vicinity, as a burial-ground is marked by a number of upright stones, south-east of Purcell's hill, where the slain were interred. The parish comprises 3*06 statute acres. It is a vicarage, in the diocese of Ossory, forming part of the union of Dunmore ; the rectory is impropriate in the corporation of Kilkenny, and the tithe rent-charge is £112. 10., of which £75 are payable to the corporation, and the remainder to the vicar. In the Roman Catholic divisions Muckalee forms part of the district of Templeorum. On the neighbouring hill of Knockmajor is a small circular inclosure ; in the valley beneath, towards Wildfield, many old spearheads have been found, and the late Mr. Ellis found here in digging, a gold ornament, or bodkin, supposed to be one of those worn by the ancient Celtic chieftains to fasten their cloaks. Yellow ochre, of a soft quality, is found at Wildfield ; there is a weak chalybeate spring near the church of Coolcullen.

    MUCKAMORE, a grange, in the barony of Lower Massereene, union and county of Antrim, and province of Ulster, 1 mile (S. E.) from Antrim ; containing 1740 inhabitants. This place, anciently lilach-airi-mar, or the " Great Field of Adoration," is situated on the Six-mile-water ; and comprises 3921^ statute acres, exclusively of 1519 acres covered by Lough Neagh. It

    Internet Archive topographicaldic02inlewi, Chapter 185

31. Battle of Moira, 637

    near Moira · town · Down · 637

    In 637 a sanguinary battle was fought at Moira between the exiled Congal Cloan and Donald, King of Ireland. The engagement terminated in the defeat of Congal.

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    MOIRA, MoYRAGH, or St. Inns of Moira, anciently called Mo I RATH, a post-town and parish, in the union of LuRGAN, barony of Lower Iveagh, county of Down, and province of Ulster, 13 miles (S. W.) from Belfast, on the road to Armagh, and 7 li (N.) from Dublin ; containing 4148 inhabitants, of whom 823 are in the town. In 637 a sanguinary battle between the exiled Congal Cloan, and Donald, King of Ireland, is said to have been fought here, which terminated in the defeat of Congal. The parish, which is on the river Lagan, the Ulster railway, and the Belfast and Lough Neagh canal, comprises 6096:1: statute acres, all rich arable land, under an excellent system of cultivation. It is at the western termination of a ridge of white limestone ; many kilns are always at work, and vast quantities of the stone in its natural state are annually sent away by the canal, and by land carriage, to distant parts. Here are also quarries of excellent basalt, in great request for building ; freestone is found of superior quality ; and there are thin seams of coal in several parts, which are not worked. An excellent line of road has been opened hence to Lisburn, and other improvements are in progress. Moira was at one time celebrated for the manufacture of linen, large quantities being made, sold, and bleached, in the town and neighbourhood : its improvement was greatly attributable to the fostering care of Sir John Rawdon, and to the first Earl of Moira, who gave premiums, and otherwise encouraged the manufacture. But it has long been on the decline, and little is now done in the market, the brown webs being chiefly sent to the market of Lisburn : yet there are some extensive manufacturers in and near the parish who give out the yarn as piecework.

    Internet Archive topographicaldic02inlewi, Chapter 156

32. Battle of Monastereven during the 1798 rebellion

    Monasterevin · town · Kildare · 1798

    During the disturbances of 1798, a battle took place at Monastereven between the insurgents and a party of the yeomanry. The encounter terminated in the total defeat of the insurgents and the consequent interruption of their progress into Queen's county.

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    MONASTEREVEN, a market and post town, and a parish, in the union of Athy, barony of West Ophaley, county of Kildare, and province of Lein- STER, 14i miles (\V. S. W.) from Naas, and 30 (S. W.) from Dublin, on the coach-road to Limerick ; containing 3693 inhabitants, of whom 1097 are in the town. This town derives its name from a monastery founded here, and made a place of sanctuary, by St. Abban ; in which were afterwards placed monks from South Munster, by St. Eniin, or Evin, in the seventh century. According to the Book of Lecan, the forcible seizure of this religious house by Cearbhuil was the cause of the war in 908, between that monarch and Cormac Mac Culinan, King of Munster, the latter of whom was defeated. The monastery, having become extinct, was refounded towards the close of the twelfth century, by Dermod O'Dempsey, King of Ophaley, with the consent of Muredach O'Conor; and, though considered as just beyond the border of the English pale, was made a mitred abbey : its abbot sat as a baron in the Irish parliament. At the Dissolution, the abbey and the manor were granted to George, Lord Audley, who assigned them to Adam Loftus, Viscount Ely ; and they are at present the property of the Marquess of Drogheda. During the disturbances of 1798, a battle took place here between the insurgents and a party of the yeomanry, which terminated in the total defeat of the former, and the consequent interruption of their progress into Queen's county.

    Internet Archive topographicaldic02inlewi, Chapter 166

33. Battle of Oulart Hill, 1798

    Oulart · town · Wexford · 1798

    On 27 May 1798, insurgents encamped on Oulart Hill were attacked by 110 men of the North Cork militia under Lieut.-Col. Foote. The rebels initially fled but turned on their disordered pursuers with pikes, destroying nearly the entire detachment.

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    OULART, a town or village, in the parish of Mil- LENAGH, union of En.mscorthy, barony of Ballagh- KEEN, county of Wexford, and province of Leinster, 6i miles (E.) from Enniscorthy, and on the road from Gorey to Wexford ; containing '283 inhabitants. During the disturbances of 1798, a large body of the insurgents encamped on Oulart hill, on Sunday, the 27th of May ; and on the same morning a detachment of the North Cork militia, consisting of 110 chosen men, commanded by Lieut.-Col. Foote, marched from Wexford, and attacked the insurgents on the south side of the hill. The rebels fled at the first onset, and were pursued at full speed by the militia ; but the latter being flushed with their success, neglected to preserve any order in the pursuit. While the insurgents were endeavouring to escape on the north side of the hill, they were informed that a body of cavalry from Gorey was advancing to cut off their retreat ; upon which, turning round on their pursuers, who had nearly reached the summit of the hill almost breathless and in disorder, they charged them with their pikes, and destroyed the whole detachment, with the exception only of the Lieut. -Colonel, one Serjeant, and three privates. The town, which in 1841 contained .')3 houses, is a chief station of the constabulary police, and has a receiving-house for letters under Enniscorthy. Fairs are held on Twelfth-day, Shrove-Tuesday, Easter-Monday, Ascension-day, and Michaelmas-day, for cattle, pigs, and sheep. Oulart gives name to the Roman Catholic district, comprising the greater part of the parish of Melina, the whole of Kilnemanagh, the greater part of Killesk and Kilcormuck, part of Castle-Ellis, and a small portion of Ballyhuskard ; the chapel adjoins the town. In the vicinity, but within the limits of the parish of Kilnemanagh, are a fever hospital and a dispensary, established in 18'27 ; they are under the care of a physician, who also acts as apothecary, and has a residence rent-free, with a salary of £100 per annum. OUNESCALL.— See Annascall. OUTRAGH, or Oightragh, a parish, in the union of MoHiLL, barony of Carrigallen, county of Leitrim, and province of Connaught, on the road from Carrick-on-Shannon to Killesandra ; containing, with the market and post town of Ballinamore (which is separately described), 9-55 inhabitants. A small river runs through the parish, which comprises '21, 689i statute acres of land, mostly under tillage ; there is a large quantity of bog, and a considerable mountain tract. Limestone abounds, of which there are fine quarries ; and a flagstone-quarry has been opened in the mountain, where mines are also said to exist. General and petty sessions, and fairs, are held at Ballinamore. The gentlemen's seats are Clover hill, Riversdale, Willyfield, Kilrush, and Willsbrook. The hving is a vicarage, in the diocese of Kilmore, and in the patronage of the Bishop ; the rectory is appropriate to the bishopric. The tithe rent-charge is £1S6, payable to the vicar, by whom £9. 13. 10^. are paid to the bishop in heu of the rectorial tithes. The glebe-house was built in 1816, by aid of £100 and a loan of £750, late currency, from the Board of First Fruits ; the cost

    Internet Archive topographicaldic02inlewi, Chapter 226

34. Battle of Singland, 943: Irish defeat the Danes

    Singland · townland · Limerick · 943–1691

    In 943 a battle was fought at Singland between the Munster Irish and the Danes, in which the Danes were defeated, driven into Limerick town, and forced to pay a heavy contribution. Cromwell, Ireton, William III, and de Ginkell all later had camps and intrenchments here when they invested Limerick, and military weapons have been frequently found in the grounds.

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    The living is a rectory and perpetual cure, in the diocese of Limerick. The rectory was united, at a period prior to any known record, to the entire rectory of Cahirvally, the rectory and vicarage of Emly-Grenan, and the chapelry of Kilquane, which union till lately constituted the corps of the treasurership of the cathedral of Limerick, in the patronage of the Bishop, who is also patron of the perpetual cure, which comprises the parishes of St. Patrick and Kilquane. Cahirvally and Emly-Grenan, are now unconnected with the treasurership. The tithe rent- charge of St. Patrick's parish is £118. The church has been in ruins since the war of 1641, when it was destroyed together with an adjoining round tower : the cemetery is used as a place of burial for Roman Catholics. In the Roman Catholic divisions the parish is the head of a district, comprising this parish and those of Kilmurry and Derrygalvin, in which union are two chapels. Singland was the scene of a battle fought in 943 between the Munster Irish and the Danes, the latter of whom were defeated, driven into the town, and forced to pay a heavy contribution. Cromwell, Ireton, William III., and de Ginkell all had their camps and intrenchments here when they invested Limerick ; military weapons have consequently been frequently found in the grounds. Some remains of the ancient military roads from Dublin and from Cork which passed through the parish are still traceable. The lands of Singland are held under the vicars-choral of Limerick by a lease, from which that body derives httle advantage.

    PATRICKS ROCK, ST., county of Tipperary.— See Cashel.

    Internet Archive topographicaldic02inlewi, Chapter 230

35. Battle of the Jordans and Rowans at Lugnafulla in Killasser

    Lugnafulla · minor feature · Mayo

    The parish of Killasser was the scene of a sanguinary battle between the native septs of the Jordans and the Rowans, at a spot since called Lugnafulla, meaning 'the valley of blood.' Several Danish forts are found in the western portion of the parish.

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    Connaught, 6 miles (E. N.E.) from Fox ford ; on the river Moy and the road to Swinford ; containing 6962 inhabitants. This parish was the scene of a sanguinary battle between the native septs of the Jordans and the Rowans, at a spot since called Lugnafulla, or "the valley of blood." It comprises 19,677 statute acres, of which about 6000 are arable, and the remainder principally bog and mountain : the land is of indifferent quality, and in many places covered with rocks of great size ; some of the eastern portion is more productive, but agriculture is in a very backward state ; there is a large tract of irreclaimable bog. The parish is a vicarage, in the diocese of Achonry, forming part of the union of Templemore ; the rectory is impropriate in the representatives of the late Roger Palmer, Esq., and the tithe rent-charge is £384, which is equally divided between the impropriator and the vicar. In the Roman Catholic divisions Killasser forms a separate benefice ; there are two chapels, situated respectively at Calla and Boullabee, both well built, and roofed with slate. Several Danish forts are to be seen in the western portion of the parish ; at Calla is a small lake, in which is an island presenting appearances of fortifications and said to have been inhabitated by the sept of the Rowans ; at Erbull are the ruins of an old castle ; and there are ancient burialplaces at Killasser, Blackpatch, and Calla.

    Internet Archive topographicaldic02inlewi, Chapter 37

36. Battle of Timahoe, 1642

    Timahoe · townland · Laois · 1642

    In 1642 a battle took place at Timahoe between forces under Colonel Monck returning from the relief of Ballinakill and a party under General Preston who had advanced to intercept his retreat. Preston was repulsed with considerable loss.

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    TIMAHOE, a village, in the parish of Fosey, or TiMAHOE, barony of Cullinagh, Queen's county, and province of Leinster, 4^; miles (S. S. \V.) from Stradbally, on the road to Ballynakill; containing about 100 inhabitants. This place takes its name from the monastery of Tcach-Mochoe, founded here by St. Mochoe, who died in 497, and which was destroyed by fire in 1142 ; it was afterwards refounded by the O'Mores, but of its further history there is no record. There are still some slight remains of the building, near which is an ancient round tower, 33 feet high ; the doorway is 14 feet from the ground and ornamented with a zigzag moulding, and the whole is in good preservation. A castle was erected in the reign of Elizabeth by the Cosby family, whose descendants are still proprietors of part of the estate ; the ruins form a very interesting and picturesque object. In 1642 a battle took place here between a party of forces under Colonel Monck, on his return from the relief of Ballinakill, and a party under General Preston, who had advanced to intercept his retreat ; in which the latter was repulsed with considerable loss. The vicinity abounds with rich pastures and extensive dairy-farms, and much butter of superior quality is sent hither for sale. The village, which contains only a few houses, is pleasantly situated. Fairs are held on April 5th, July 2nd, and Oct. ISth; and a constabulary police force is stationed here. The Roman Catholic chapel of the union of Stradbally, a handsome cruciform edifice in the early English style, lately erected at an expense of £2000, is situated in the village, in which is also the parochial school, under the patronage of Colonel Close.

    Internet Archive topographicaldic02inlewi, Chapter 333

37. Battle on the plains of Muff

    Muff · town · Donegal · 1565

    In 1565, Edward Randolph arrived in the Foyle with forces to repress Shane O'Nial, leading to a sanguinary engagement on the plains of Muff where the Irish chieftain was signally defeated. An English encampment was then formed near the city.

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    Edward II. granted the town to Richard de Burgo, Earl of Ulster, in 1311 ; but from this period till the reign of Elizabeth, prior to which the English exercised no settled dominion in Derry, no event of importance connected with the place is recorded. In 1565 Edward Randolph arrived in the Foyle with seven companies of foot and one troop of horse, to repress Shane O'Nial, Earl of Tyrone, who had renounced his allegiance to the English crown ; and a sanguinary engagement taking place on the plains of Muff, the Irish chieftain was signally defeated. An encampment was then formed by the English near the city ; but in a sally against some of O'Nial's forces, who had ostentatiously paraded before it, the English general was slain by a party who had concealed themselves in an adjoining wood, and the command of the garrison was given to Colonel St. Lo. The English converted the cathedral into an arsenal, and on the 24th of April, 1566, the gunpowder blew up by accident, with so much damage as to render the place untenable ; the foot embarked for Dublin, to which city also the horse returned, passing through Tyrconnell and Connaught to avoid O'Nial. In 1599 it was again determined to fortify Derry, a measure long deemed essential in order to divide and check the power of O'Nial and O'Donell, the accomplishment of which object was favoured by its situation and the friendship of O'Dogherty of Ennishowen. With that view Sir Henry Docwra, in 1600, entered the Foyle with a British force of 4000 foot and 200 horse, and landed at Culmore, at the mouth of the river, where he erected a fort. He soon obtained possession of the city, and constructed fortifications and other works for its defence ; pulling down the abbey, cathedral, and other ecclesiastical buildings, for the sake of the materials. On the termination of the war at the commencement of 1603, the garrison was reduced to 1 00 horse and 1 50 foot under the governor, and 200 foot under Captain Hansard ; while at Culmore were left 20 men. Sir Henry now directed his attention to the improvement of the place, and with so much zeal as to entitle him to be regarded as the founder of the modern city. A number of English colonists settled here on his invitation ; he obtained grants of markets and fairs, and, in 1604, a charter of incorporation with ample privileges. But in 1608, after the flight and forfeiture of O'Nial and O'Donell, the growing prosperity of the new city was checked by the insurrection of Sir Cahir O'Dogherty, the young chief of Ennishowen, who took both Culmore Fort and Derry, at the latter of which Sir George Paulet (to whom Sir Henry Docwra had alienated all his interests) and his men were slain ; as many of the inhabitants as could escape fled, and the town was plundered and burned.

    Internet Archive topographicaldic02inlewi, Chapter 99

38. Battle on the shore of Faughanvale parish

    Faughanvale · townland · Derry · 1197

    In 1197, English forces who had plundered churches in Derry were overtaken on the shore of Faughanvale parish by Flahertach O'Maoldoraidh, lord of Tyrone and Tyrconnell. A battle ensued in which the English were defeated with great slaughter.

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    In 1 1 66 a considerable part of the town was burned by Rory O'Morna ; and in 1195 the abbey was plundered by an English force, which was afterwards intercepted and destroyed at Armagh. In 1197, a large body of English forces, having set out from the castle of Kill-Sanctain, on a predatory excursion, came to Derry and plundered several churches ; but were overtaken by Flahertach O'Maoldoraidh, lord of Tyrone and Tyrconnell, and some of the northern Hy-Niall ; and a battle ensued on the shore of the adjoining parish of Faughanvale, in which the English were defeated with great slaughter. In this year, Sir John De Courcy came with a large army, and remained five nights ; and in the following year also, having made an incursion into Tyrone to pillage the churches, he arrived at this place, and during his stay plundered Ennishowen and all the adjacent country : while thus engaged, he received intelligence of the defeat of the English at Lame by Hugh Boy O'Nial, which caused him to quit Derry. In 1203 the town was much damaged by fire ; and in 1211 it was plundered by Thomas Mac Uchtry and the sons of Randal Mac Donnelj, who came hither with a fleet of "6 ships, and afterwards passed into Ennishowen and laid waste the whole peninsula. This Thomas, and Rory Mac Randal, again plundered the town in 1213, carrying away from the cathedral to Coleraine all the jewellery of the people of Derry and of the north of Ireland. A 260

    Internet Archive topographicaldic02inlewi, Chapter 98

39. Battle tradition at Lisbellaw hill

    near Lisbellaw · village · Fermanagh · 1689–1691

    Local tradition holds that a battle was fought on a hill above the village of Lisbellaw between troops of King William and James II, with James II's forces defeated. The site is associated with the Williamite wars.

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    LISBELLAW, a village, in a detached portion of the parish of Cleenish, (called Cleenish East, and separated entirely from the main parish by Lough Erne,) union of Enniskillen, barony of Tyrkennedy, county of Fermanagh, and province of Ulster, 3i miles (E. S. E.) from Enniskillen, on the road to Clogher ; containing 60 houses, and ^60 inhabitants. Tradition states, that on a hill above the village, a battle was fought between some of the troops of King William and James II., when the latter were defeated. The Lisbellaw estate, or manor of Carriek, was the property of the Earl of Rosse, on whose demise in 1764, the title (revived in 1S06) became extinct, and the property passed to the family of the Rev. Grey Porter, the present proprietor. The village is picturesquely situated amidst conical-shaped hills and singular rocks, in a highly cultivated district, and in the vicinity of Lough Erne : it has a receiving-house for letters in connexion with Eimiskillen. The inhabitants are chiefly employed in weaving linen and making matting from bulrushes ; stone-breaking atfords much employment to the infirm ; and there are a spade-mill, and corn-mills with dryingkilns attached. Fairs are held on May 1 1th, June '20th, July yoth, Aug. 18th, Oct. ISth, Nov. 11th, and Dec. '23rd, chiefly for cattle and pigs ; those in May and November are much frequented for hiring servants. Petty- sessions are held on alternate Saturdays; and a baronial court was formerly held, but is at present dis- 240

    Internet Archive topographicaldic02inlewi, Chapter 80

40. Bawn House, Lord Hartland's mansion at Strokestown

    Strokestown · town · Roscommon

    Bawn House, the noble mansion of Lord Hartland, stands east of Strokestown in a demesne of more than 1000 acres, with an Ionic portico and heavy advancing wings retaining its original character.

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    Bawn House, the noble mansion of Lord Hartland, is situated to the east of the town, in a demesne of more than 1000 acres : it consists of a centre with an Ionic portico, having a flat roof guarded by a balustrade, and of heavy advancing wings, shewing the original character of the whole edifice. Within a grove at a short distance from the front are the roofless ruins of an old church, some of the windows of which retain their ancient mullions, while others are of modern workmanship : the inclosed area has been selected for the site of a family mausoleum ; the surrounding grounds are very beautiful. The church forms a regular octagon, and is a handsome building of limestone, with a tower and spire, in the Gothic style. A bequest of £800 was made by the late B. Mahaii for the i)oor of the parishes of the ecclesiastical union. Chalybeate springs abound in the neighbourhood.

    SUBULTER, a parish, in the union of Kanturk, barony of Du hallow, county of Cork, and province of MuNSTER, 3 miles (E.) from Kanturk, near the road to Mallow ; containing 273 inhabitants. Knockninoss, in this parish, was, in 1647, the scene of a desperate battle between the forces of Lord Inchiquin and those of Lord Taafe. The former, having taken the field with 4000 foot and 1200 horse, on Nov. 13th encountered the Irish army, consisting of 7464 foot and IO76 horse, posted on the hill of Knockninoss. The English forces charged up the ascent : the Irish at first stood their ground, and forced their assailants before them, some of the Highlanders of Sir Alexander Mac Donell's or Mac Allisdrum's corps even driving part of them a considerable distance, and capturing their artillery and carriages ; but Lord Inchiquin having found means to detach a party of horse round, so as to gain the summit of the hill, the right wing, commanded by Lord Taafe, and a great part of the main body, fled. The left wing, also, com-

    Internet Archive topographicaldic02inlewi, Chapter 304

41. Beaufort House on site of Short Castle

    Beaufort · town · Kerry

    Beaufort House was built on the site of Short Castle. Other seats in the parish include Whitefield, residence of M'Gillicuddy of the Reeks, and Churchtown, residence of Sir A. Blennerhasset.

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    The lands under cultivation are chiefly in tillage, but a very large portion of the parish is mountain pasture ; the soil is light and gravelly, and interspersed with tracts of bog. The system of agriculture is gradually improving : at Manus is a limestone-quarry, which is extensively worked, chiefly for agricultural purposes ; at Glencare is a small slate-quarry, and slate is also found in the Gap of Dunloe. Dunloe Castle, formerly the residence of the O'SuUivan family, was built by the O'Sullivan More, by whose descendant it was occupied at the time of its bombardment by General Ireton during the parliamentary war : it is situated about a mile from the Lower Lake of Killarney, on a steep bank rising from the river Laune, and in the midst of a thickly wooded demesne, and commands a fine view of the Lower Lake, and of the scenery of the Gap, with the M'^Gillycuddy mountains. The other seats are, Beaufort House, built on the site of Short Castle ; Whitefield, the residence of M'^Gillicuddy of the Reeks ; Churchtown, of Sir A. Blennerhasset ; Cullina ; and Glencare. There are also several sporting-lodges near Lough Cara, the beauty of which has been much in- 199

    Internet Archive topographicaldic02inlewi, Chapter 60

42. Bective Abbey ruins described as extensive and picturesque

    Bective · townland · Meath

    Extensive and picturesque ruins of the wealthy Cistercian abbey of Bective survive. The abbey was one of the most important monastic houses in County Meath.

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    session of the late Duke of Sussex. Bracelets or collars, being solid rings of pure gold of very ancient and rude workmanship, were found near Trimleston Castle, in 1S33 ; the largest weighed 12 ounces avoirdupois. The ruins of abbeys, priories, convents, and other monastic edifices, are numerous through every part of the county ; and still more numerous are the names of others now only discoverable by some local name, or traceable in historic records. The ruins of the old monastery of Duleek, said to be the first monastic edifice built of stone and mortar in Ireland, presents some curious and extraordinary traces of rude architecture. At Bective are extensive and picturesque ruins of the wealthy abbey of that name : at Clonard were an abbey of Canons Regular, a convent, and also a cathedral, but nothing now remains except the font of the last ; at Colpe, Newtown, Slane, and Trim, were also abbeys of Canons Regular, all now in ruins. At Killeen and Kilmainham- Wood were commandcries of Knights Hospitallers ; at Ratoath and Skreen, priories of the Augustinian eremites ; at Eirk, near Slane, a hermitage ; at Trim, a priory of Crutched friars ; and on the Holy or Church island, in Lough Sheelin, an abbey of Grey friars : Kilmainham-beg and Teltown belonged to the Dominicans. The whole have long since fallen into ruins. The monasteries of which no ruins remain are, those of Ardbraccan, Ardceath, Ardmulchan, Ardsallagh, Athboy, Ballybogan, Beaumore near Colpe, Beaubeg, Calliagh, Cloonmanan, Disert-tola, Donaghmore, Donaghcarney near Colpe, and Donoughpatrick ; a priory of the Virgin Mary, and the Magdalen Hospital, at Duleek ; abbeys at Dunshaughlin, and Indenen near Slane ; a house of Regular Canons, an hospital of St. John the Baptist, and a chantry, all at Kells ; a house of Regular Canons and a nunnery at Killeen ; an abbey at Navan, on the site of which the cavalry barrack is now built ; priories at Odder and Rosse, south of Taragh ; an abbey of Regular Canons and a chantry at Skreen ; a monastery of Grey Friars, on the site of which the sessions-house at Trim stands ; a nunnery, a Greek church, and a chantry, at Trim ; and Dominican friaries at Kilberry, Lismullen, and Dunshaughlin ; besides several others. Columbkill's house, a stone-roofed cell, said to be one of the oldest stone-built houses in Ireland, is still traceable at Kells ; in which town are also several stone crosses, one in particular of beautiful workmanship. In the cemetery at Castlekicran, in which are the ruins of a small church, is another very fine stone cross richly sculptured.

    Internet Archive topographicaldic02inlewi, Chapter 149

43. Beggar's Bridge tradition at Rochfort-Bridge, Westmeath

    Rochfortbridge · town · Westmeath

    Rochfort-Bridge, formerly called Beggar's Bridge, derived its name from the tradition that a beggar died there with enough money in his pockets to build the bridge crossing a small stream at the eastern end of the village.

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    ROCHFORT-BRIDGE, formerly called Beggar's- BRiDGE, a post-town, or village, in the parish of Castlelost, union of Mullingar, barony of Fartullagh, county of W^estmeath, and province of Leinster, 7^ miles (S. W.) from Kinnegad, and on the road from Dublin to Athlone ; containing 74 houses, and 417 inhabitants. It is traditionally stated that this place derived its former name from the circumstance of a beggar having died here, in whose pockets was found money sufficient to build the bridge, which crosses a small stream at the eastern extremity of the village. It is a station of the constabulary police, and contains the parochial church and ^ national school.

    Internet Archive topographicaldic02inlewi, Chapter 258

44. Begnis Island sand used as valuable manure

    Beginish · townland · Kerry

    Sand brought from Begnis Island to Killinane parish is of superior quality and constitutes a valuable manure, transported via the navigable river Fahrta.

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    KILLINANE, a parish, in the union of Cahirci- VEEN, barony of Iveragh, county of Kerry, and province of MvNSTER, 4 miles (N. E.) from Cahirciveen, on the road to Milltown ; containing 3.569 inhabitants. This parish is situated on the southern shore of Dingle bay, and at the inner extremity of the harbour of Valencia : it comprises '.J6,868 statute acres, of which 5030 consist of arable land, 75SO of mountain jiasture, and the remainder (with the exception of about 40 acres of woodland) of rocky mountain, waste, and bog. Towards the sea arc mountains of great elevation, afforiiing pasture during the summer months ; the intervening valleys are coarse and rocky, with only a small proportion of tillage. On one of the mountains is a remarkable prominence called "The Hag's Tooth," on the north side of which are some small romantic lakes. The sea on the north-east forms several creeks ; that of Kells affords shelter to small vessels, and near it is a coast-guard station, being one of the four included in the district of Valencia. The river Fahrta, which rises near the south-east end of the parish, is navigable for boats a considerable way up from the harbour of Valencia, affording great facility for the conveyance of sea-weed and sand ; the latter, which is brought from Begnis Island, is of superior quality, and constitutes a valuable manure. The parish is in the diocese of Ardfert and Aghadoe, and is a rectory, forming part of the imion of Cahir : the tithe rent-charge is £1^0. 12., and there is a glebe of 6li acres. In the Roman Catholic divisions Killinane is part of the district of Cahirciveen ; there is a chapel at Tielmore. At Deelis is a schoolhouse with apartments for the master, built in 1833, at the expense of Mrs. Raymond, for the education of the male children of her tenantry, and endowed by her with £20 per annum. The ruins of the old church still remain, in the burial-ground at Seugrany.

    Internet Archive topographicaldic02inlewi, Chapter 39

45. Belclare ancient castle in Kilmacteigue parish

    Belclare · townland · Sligo

    At Belclare in the parish of Kilmacteigue stands an ancient castle. The text also directs readers to see Banada and Ardclare for further information.

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    a glebe-house, built at an expense of £1300, of which the Board of First Fruits gave £300, and lent £.500, in 1814 : the glebe comprises 40 acres. The church is a plain building. The Roman Catholic parish is coextensive with that of the Establi.shed Church, and has chapels at Kilmacteigue, Barrintogher, and Lough Talt, the last lately built. There are several public schools, to one of which Mr. Jones has given an acre of land. At Belclare is an ancient castle. — See Banada and Ardclare.

    KILMACTHOMAS, a post-town, partly in the parish of Ballylaneen, but chiefly in that of Rossmire, barony of Decies without Drum, union and county of Waterford, and province of Munster, 12 miles (W. S. W.) from Waterford, and 87| (S. W.) from Dublin, on the road from Cork to Waterford ; containing 1197 inhabitants, and 214 houses. The town is situated on a steep hill, at the foot of which flows the small river Mahon ; there is a good stone bridge. It has a dispensary, and is the head-quarters of the constabulary police for the county : petty-sessions are held here, or at Stradbally, on alternate Tuesdays, and fairs are held on Feb. 2nd, March 17th, May 12th, Aug. 12th, Sept. 29th, and Dec. 6th and 21st. A castle existed at this place, which was taken by Sir Charles Vavasour in 1643 ; it belonged to the Poer family, who are still the chief owners of property in the neighbourhood.

    Internet Archive topographicaldic02inlewi, Chapter 43

46. Belfry giving name to Long Tower lane

    near Derry · city · Derry · 1600

    The belfry or round tower of Derry's cathedral survived the 1600 demolition of the abbey buildings by Sir Henry Docwra, serving until after the celebrated siege of Derry. It subsequently gave its name to a lane called the Long Tower.

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    were driven with great slaughter from the siege of Derry by Niall Caille, King of Ireland, and Murchadh, Prince of Aileach. In 9>S3, the shrine of St. Columbkill was carried away by the Danes, by whom the place was also thrice devastated about the close of the 10th century : in 1095 the abbey was consumed by fire. In 1100 Murtagh O'Brien arrived with a large fleet of foreign vessels, and attacked Derry, but was defeated with great slaughter by the sou of Mac Loughlin, Prince of Aileach. Ardgar, Prince of Aileach, was slain in an assault upon Derry in ll'M; and on the 30th of March, 113.5, the town with its churches was destroyed by fire, in revenge, as some state, of his death : it sustained a similar calamity in 1149. In 1158, Flahertagh OBrolchain, abbot of the Augustine monastery, was raised to the episcopacy, and appointed supreme superintendent of all the abbeys under the rule of St. Columb, by a synodical decree of the Irish clergy assembled at Brigh-mac- Taidhg, in the north of Meath. OBrolchain immediately commenced preparations for the erection of a new church on a larger scale; and in 1162 he removed more than 80 houses adjacent to the abbey church, and inclosed the abbey with a circular wall. In 1164 Temple More, or " the great church," was built, and the original abbey church was thenceforward distinguished as Duv Regies, or " the Black Church :" the new edifice was 240 feet long, and was one of the most splendid ecclesiastical structures erected in Ireland prior to the settlement of the Anglo-Normans ; its site was near the Black Church, outside the present city wall, and is now chiefly occupied by the Roman Catholic chapel and cemetery. Both edifices were entirely demolished by Sir Henry Docwra, governor of Derry, in 1600, and the materials used in the erection of the extensive works constructed at that period ; but the belfry or round tower of the cathedral served till after the celebrated siege, and has given name to a lane called the Long Tower.

    Internet Archive topographicaldic02inlewi, Chapter 98

47. Bellaghy burned in 1641 rebellion

    near Bellaghy · townland · Derry · 1641

    Known as Vintners'-town due to the Vintners' Company holding it, Bellaghy was burned during the 1641 rebellion.

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    share was situated mostly within the liberties of Derry, south-east of the Foyle ; that of the Haberdashers was around Aghanloo and Bovevai^h. The Vintners had Bellaghy, and the Merchant-Tailors' proportion was Macosquin. These proportions are now held in perpetuity by the Marquess of Waterford, the Richardsons, the Ponsonbys, the Alexanders, and the heirs of the late Right Hon. Thomas Conolly. Of the estates belonging to the other eight companies, the Mercers have Kilrea and its neighbourhood; the Grocers, Muff and its dependencies : Moneymore, and its rich and improved district, belong to the Drapers ; the Fishmongers have Ballykclly j Dungiven belongs to the Skinners ; Magherafelt to the Salters ; Aghadowey to the Ironmongers ; and Killowen, forming part of the borough of Coleraine, to the Clothworkers. All are under lease, except those of the Drapers, Mercers, and Grocers, which are managed by agents, deputed by the respective companies. The first intimation of the intended insurrection in 1641 came from Moneymore, in this county, through Owen O'ConoUy, an Irish Protestant, in time to save Dublin, but not to prevent the explosion of the plot in the north. On the first day of the explosion, Moneymore was seized by the Irish ; and Maghera, and Bellaghy, then called Vintners'-town, were burned, as were most of the other towns and villages throughout the county. On the termination of the war, the county and the city fell under the dominion of the parliament, and Sir Charles Coote and Governor Hunks ruled here with great severity. From the Restoration to the Revolution, the county affords few materials for history ; the siege of Londonderry, one of the most striking events of the latter period, properly belongs to the history of the city.

    Internet Archive topographicaldic02inlewi, Chapter 92

48. Bellaghy castle still occupied among London companies' forts

    near Bellaghy · townland · Derry

    Several English castles with bawns and flankers were built by the London companies across the county, but all are in ruins except Bellaghy, which is still occupied.

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    Besides the remains of monastic institutions in the city of Londonderry, seventeen others appear to have existed within the limits of the county ; there are still remains of those situated respectively at Camus, Errigal, Tamlaghtfinlagan, Donmach-Dola, and Dungiven, at the last of which are the most interesting of all the ecclesiastical ruins. Near the old church of Banaghcr, also, is a monastic building almost entire. Tliere are a few castles of Irish erection : Bally-reagh, on a rocky cliff overhanging the sea, is said to have belonged to one of the Mac Quillans ; and a castle which stood near the church of Ballyaghran is reported to have been the abode of the chief of that sept. Several English castles, with bawns and flankers, were built by the London companies, one at least in every proportion of allotment ; but they are all in ruins except Bellaghy, which is still occupied.

    Internet Archive topographicaldic02inlewi, Chapter 97

49. Bellarena demesne on the banks of the Roe

    Bellarena · townland · Derry

    Bellarena is described as a highly embellished demesne on the banks of the Roe and the side of Benyevenagh, contributing much to the beauty of the area.

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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

50. Bell of Lorrha friary hidden and restored

    Lorrha · townland · Tipperary

    At the suppression of the monastery the bell was taken down and concealed in a field, remaining hidden until it was discovered about 40 years before the account was written and restored to the abbey.

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    The living is a rectory and vicarage, in the diocese of Killaloe, forming part of the union of Aglishcloghane or Lorha; the tithe rent-charge is £3'27. ~. The glebehouse was built in 1816 by the then incumbent, aided by a gift of £100 and a loan of £ViO() from the Board of First Fruits, and is a handsome residence ; the glebe of the union comprises 10 acres. The church has been repaired by a grant of £113 from the Ecclesiastical Commissioners. There is also a church at Dorrha, in the union. In the Roman Catholic divisions the parish is the head of a district, comprising also the parish of Dorrha ; the chapel here is a plain modern building near the ruins of the Dominican friary, and there is a chapel at Dorrha. A school was erected in 1S3'2, on a site given, with a liberal subscription, by Mr. Toone ; the expense of the building was £150, towards ■which the National Board contributed £70. There are several other schools ; and a dispensary. The remains of the Dominican abbey, the walls of which are nearly entire, are situated in a fertile spot on a rivulet which falls into the Shannon ; the prevailing character is the early English style. The western gable is surmounted by a small belfry turret, and above the entrance is a handsome window ; the bell, which at the suppression of the monastery had been taken down and hid in a field, was discovered about 40 years since, and restored : the interior of the edifice contains several mural tablets, one of which bears the arms of the Mac Egan family. There are some ruins of Ballyquirk Castle, near which is the modern house of that name ; and also of Lackeen Castle.

    Internet Archive topographicaldic02inlewi, Chapter 110

51. Benbulbin mountain's singular table-land summit

    Benbulbin · mountain or mountain range · Sligo

    Benbulbin, in the north of Sligo, is noted for both its great elevation and the singularity of its shape, forming the western extremity of a range extending from Lough Erne. Its northern side is nearly perpendicular and its summit is a table-land covered with a rich variety of plants, accessible only from the south.

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    The SURFACE is much varied. Near the sea-coast are extensive plains backed by lofty mountains. The interior is hilly, with several lakes interspersed, and with some rivers which, though not of great length or size, add much to the beauty of the scenery by their romantic borders and precipitous currents. The western part of the county, which stretches along the southern shore of Donegal bay, is chiefly bog, backed by a range of lofty hills. Btnbulben, in the north, is not more remarkable for its great elevation than for the singularity of its shape : it forms the western extremity of a range extending from Lough Erne ; its northern side is nearly perpendicular ; the only access to its summit, which is a table-land of some extent and covered with a rich variety of plants, is by the south. Thence to the town of Sligo the country is an extensive plain richly cultivated. Knocknaree, a mountain of considerable elevation and with a wide-spread base, situated on the peninsula formed by the estuaries of the Sligo and Ballysadere rivers, is a very striking object in every point nf view. The Ox mountains extend along the western verge of the county into Mayo : the whole of the south of the county is rugged and hilly, rising into the high range of the Curlews on the border of Roscommon. There are three lakes remarkable alike for size and beauty. The most northern is Lough GUI, near the town of Sligo, on the east ; it is about nine miles long and three broad, and studded with islands, some of which are richly wooded, while others present an expanse of verdant meadow. Of these islands two are inhabited ; namely, Innismore, called also Church Island, from the remains of a monastic building, the cemetery of which is still used as a place of interment and where the incumbent of St. John's, on his presentation, still takes possession ; and Cottage Island, so called from a beautiful modern lodge erected on it. Besides these, there are 16 islands uninhabited, all more or less wooded. Lough Arrow, nearly of the same size as the preceding, but more irregular in its outline, and equally remarkable for the variety of its scenery, contains the three islands of Innismore, Innisbeg, and Annaghgowla : there is fine fishing in this lake in April and May. At the southern extremity of the county, and forming part of its boundary on the side of Roscommon, is Lough Guru, equally picturesque and irregular, and also studded with islands, the chief of which are named Derrymore, Inse, Inchymore, and Inchybeg. In the Ox mountains is Louc/h Calf, or the High Lake, surrounded by cliffs that seem to have been thrown up by some extraordinary convulsion of nature. The lake, which is about a mile long by half a mile in breadth, is well stocked with trout of a small size, of which it is said that, while those which teed on one side are peculiarly ill-flavoured and misshapen, having heads exceeding the body in size, those in other parts are of good shape and flavour. Two islets near the centre are covered during the summer months with flocks of gulls and other aquatic birds. More northwards in the same range of mountains, is Lough Laskey.

    Internet Archive topographicaldic02inlewi, Chapter 289

52. Benburb castle and Shane O'Nial's residence ruins

    Benburb · townland · Tyrone

    Benburb contains the largest castle remains in Tyrone. Near Benburb are the ruins of one of the residences of Shane O'Nial. Other castle ruins at Newtown-Stewart, Dungannon, Strabane, and Ballygawley are noted under their respective parishes.

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    Dachioroc or Errigal-Keroge, Corock, Ballina=agart, Dungannon, Omagh, Maghclair, Strabaue, and Trillick, monasteries, exist only in the records of history. The remains of ancient castles are numerous, but few of them are of much importance : Benburb is the largest ; near it are the ruins of one of the residences of Shane O'Nial. Those of Newtown- Stewart, Dungannon, Strabane, and Ballygawley, together with the chief modern mansions of the nobility and gentry throughout the county, are noticed under their respective parishes.

    Internet Archive topographicaldic02inlewi, Chapter 368

53. Benedictine priory of St. John's founded by King John in Waterford

    Waterford · city · Waterford · 1200–1210

    Nearly all the religious houses anciently existing in Waterford arose in the early thirteenth century, including the Benedictine priory of St. John's founded by King John, with the others founded by the inhabitants.

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    Waterford, from its situation and importance, became the centre of communication with England, as well as one of the chief places of trade in the island ; and during the same year, 1179, Robert Fitzstephen, Milo de Cogan, and Philip de Braos landed here with fresh forces from England. In the Easter of 118.^, John, Earl of Morton, son of Henry II., accompanied by Ralph Glanville, justiciary of England, and other distinguished persons, and attended with a retinue of 400 or 500 knights and about 4000 men, disembarked at this port to take upon himself the office of lord chief governor of Ireland, and was received with congratulation by the different native chiefs. The earliest coinage in Waterford of which indubitable evidence remains, is that of John while lord of Ireland, of which several silver halfpence, weighing from 10 to lOi grains, are still preserved. After his accession to the throne of England, John granted to the citizens, in 1204, a fair for nine days, and in 1206 a charter of incorporation, apparently in many respects little more than a recital and confirmation of privileges previously granted. In 121 1, that monarch landed here on his way to Dublin to arrange the affairs of the Irish government ; and during his stay in the city, he ordered pence, halfpence, and farthings, to be coined there, of the same standard as in England, to be equally current in both countries. In the early part of this century arose nearly all the religious houses that anciently existed here, of which the Benedictine priory of St. John's was founded by King John and the others by the inhabitants. In 1232, Henry III. granted a new charter, in which the election of a mayor is first mentioned : 635

    Internet Archive topographicaldic02inlewi, Chapter 378

54. Ben of Fore near village of Fore

    Fore · townland · Westmeath

    The Ben of Fore, near the village of Fore, rises to 760 feet. Fore, formerly a borough sending members to the Irish parliament, is now a small village.

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    The SURFACE of the county, though nowhere rising into tracts of considerable elevation, is much diversified by hill and dale, is highly picturesque in many parts, and deficient in none of the essentials of rural beauty. In its scenery it ranks ne.\t after Kerry, Wicklow, Fermanagh, and Waterford. None of the hills are so high as to be incapable of agricultural improvement. Knock Eyne and Knockross, on the shores of Lough Dtreveragh, have on their sides much stunted oak and brushwood, the remains of ancient forests; the former of these hills is about S50 feet high. The Ben of Fore, near the village of Fore, is 760 feet high. The lakes are picturesque and very numerous, and mostly situated in the northern and central parts, the southern being flat and overspread with bog. The largest and most southern of the lakes is Lough Innel or linni:l, now called also Belvidere lake : it is 1^ mile from Mullingar, and is studded with eight islands, the chief of which, called Fort Island or Dysart Island, was garrisoned and used as a magazine by the Irish in the war of 1641, and was twice taken by the parliamentary forces, and ultimately retained by them till the Restoration. The names of the others are Shan Oge's, Goose, Inchycroan, Cormorant, Cherry, Chapel, and Green Island. The Brosua passes through the lake from north to south. To the north of this lake is Lough Hoi/le, Foiile, Quel, or Owet, in the

    40

    Internet Archive topographicaldic02inlewi, Chapter 390

55. Bessy Bell mountain named from Baal worship tradition

    Bessy Bell · mountain or mountain range · Tyrone

    Bessy Bell, a prominent mountain on one side of the river Mourne, is said to derive its name from Baal or Bel, whose religious rites called Baase were performed on its summit. The name 'Baase Bell' was corrupted over time into the present popular appellation.

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    The SURFACE is diversified by a continued variety of hill and dale, and rises into elevated mountain tracts in the north and west, known by the general name of the Munterlowny mountains : the most elevated is Saicell, part of which is in the county of Londonderry, 2'235 feet high; the next is MiilUtghcarn, 1778 feet. Bessy Bell and Mary Grey are the fanciful names of two mountains detached from this range, and standing prominently on each side of the river Mourne. The former is said to derive its name from Baal or Bel, whose religious rights called Baase were performed on its summit; hence the expression Baase Bell, which by a natural corruption has been moulded into its present popular appellation : the origin of the name of the other has not been ascertained. To the west of the barony of Dungannon are the mountains of Biilli/<^'(twlf-y, and still further south-west are those of Morley or Murley , both so high as to preclude the possibility of cultivation, though not so lofty as the northern range. The less elevated districts present many views of rich tranquil scenery : the mountainous parts, particularly near the courses of the numerous rivers and streams, abound with romantic prospects. The central part of the county from Omagh to Ballygawley is mostly a dreary expanse of bog and heath. The Lakes are few and small ; in the demesne of Baronscouit are three, one of which has an artificial islet clothed with timber, called M'^Hugh's Island, from a chieftain of that name who constructed it and erected a fortress on it. Not far from Baronscourt is Lough Creevy ; Lough Frae or Fry is in Lissan parish. There are others, small, but interesting for their scenery, near Pomeroy, Donoughmore, Fairlough, and Dunamanagh ; the border of one in the demesne of Pomeroy presents an exact miniature resemblance of the outline of Ireland. 619

    Internet Archive topographicaldic02inlewi, Chapter 366

56. Best agricultural land around Ardee and Louth

    Ardee · town · Louth

    The best land in County Louth is found around Ardee and Louth, with extensive tracts of rich soil also at Tallonstown, Dundalk, and Castle-Bellingham. The best wheat districts are Ardee and Cooley, while the best barley is grown near the town of Louth.

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    of high cultivation, and interspersed with thriving plantations : to the north the surface rises into the lofty group of the Ravensdale, Cooley, and Carlingford mountains. The coast, from the mouth of the Uuyne, which is the southern extremity of the county, presents a broad level strand, stretching northward for several miles to the boldly projecting promontory of Clogher Head, at the foot of which is the village of the same name, with a natural harbour that affords shelter to a few fishingyawls. Thence to Dunniiij Head is a sandy bay, in which are a few reefs, covered at high water but at ebb tide having a dry strand for half a mile beyond the»n. Dunany is the southern extremity of Dundalk Bay, which sweeps round into the land in a semicircular form, having the harbour and town of Dundalk in its most inland point, and terminating northwards at Cooley j)oint. The southern and western shores of this fine bay, the mouth of which extends seven miles from point to point, and which measures the same distance in depth to the entrance to Dundalk harbour, are of the same character as those already noticed, broad, shallow, and skirted with a line of low land rising gradually into slight elevations, clothed with verdure and trees. The northern side of the bay is of a character totally different. Here the mountains rise boldly from the water's edge, covered in tluir lower parts with wood, but above denuded and heathy. This mountainous tract forms a peninsula that separates the bay of Dundalk from that of Carlingfurd, which forms the northern boundary of the county. The character of Carlingford bay is different from that of Dundalk bay : it is long and narrow, extending nearly nine miles inland to Narrow water, which is the entrance to Newry harbour, with an average breadth of li mile, and bordered on both sides by lofty eminences ; on the south by the mountain group already described, on tlie north by the mountains of Morne, in Down, which latter are among the highest in Ireland. Both these bays are considered as unsafe for shipping ; that of Dundalk, from its shoals ; that of Carlingford, from the sudden and violent flaws of wind that sweep along it from the surrounding cliffs. Fish of many kinds are caught in great numbers off the shores of the county ; the most common species are turbot, cod, haddock, plaice, ling, and herrings. There is an oyster-fishery in Carlingford bay, the oysters of which are in the highest estimation for their superior flavour, and are sent in large quantities to Dublin and other towns situated along the coast. The soil in flat parts is suitable to every kind of agricultural produce, being a rich vegetable mould, based on marl, limestone, or clay-slate : northwards it gradually deteriorates, until, on approaching the summits of the mountains, the only vegetable productions are heath and the coarsest grasses. The best land is about Ardee and Louth ; there are also extensive tracts of rich soil at Tallonstown, Dundalk, and Castle-Bellingham.

    Internet Archive topographicaldic02inlewi, Chapter 114

57. Best anchorage in Bantry Bay along Whiddy Island's eastern shore

    near Whiddy Island · island or archipelago · Cork

    Along the eastern shore of Whiddy Island are five small islets, between which and the mainland on the east lies the best anchorage in Bantry Bay, in five or six fathoms of water.

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    WHIDDY ISLAND, in the parish of Kilmaco- MOGUE, union and barony of B.antry, county of Cork, and province of Munster, if mile (W.) from Bantry ; containing about 714 inhabitants. It is situated near the inner extremity of the bay of Bantry, and extends from X. E. to S. W. nearly three miles, having an average breadth of about one mile, and comprising 12 IS statute acres of land, chiefly under an improved system of cultivation. It is remarkable for the variety of its soil, which in some places consists of a rich loam, and in others of rock, sand, and stiff clay : on the north side are extensive rocks of a black shaly substance, soft and unctuous, and much resembling black lead ; it is called Lapis Hiberniciis, and was formerly given medicinally in cases of inward bruises, but is now chiefly used by carpenters as black chalk. Bogs supply the inhabitants with turf for fuel ; and there are both a fresh and a salt water lake on the island. Three batteries, each consisting of a circular tower surrounded by a deep fosse, and together mounting 18 guns, were built subsequently to the descent of the French fleet here in 1796: there were barracks for seven officers and 188 non-commissioned ofiicers and men of the engineer and artillery departments ; but the whole are now entrusted to the care of one man. Along the eastern shore of the island are five small islets, between which and the main land on the east is the best anchorage in the bay, in five or Vol. II.— 665

    Internet Archive topographicaldic02inlewi, Chapter 401

58. Best land in County Sligo around Ballymote

    Ballymote · town · Sligo

    The section identifies the land around Ballymote as the best in all of County Sligo, suitable for tillage and pasturage. It also notes excellent dairy-farms in the vicinity.

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    rock, interspersed with land of excellent quality fit for every kind of tillage, or for pasturage. In the west the soil is light and gravelly, with large tracts of black bog and moory mountain, much of which is capable ot improvement. The best land in the entire county is around Ballymote. Throughout most parts occurs a substratum called Uic-leigh, which term is corrupted Irish for " a grey flag ;" it is found from nine to twelve inches beneath the surface, and is, when undisturbed, perfectly impervious, and therefore retentive of water. Silicious marl in a concrete state seems to be its principal ingredient. It effervesces slightly with acids ; is of a leaden-grey colour ; and, when dug up and e.xposed to the atmosphere, resolves into a coarse-grained friable powder. Its presence would be a complete bar to the progress of tillage, did not experience prove that, when dug up and well incorporated with the superincumbent soil, it improves the compost ; and that, when broken through, the ground below consists of a limestonegravel, into which the water retained by the stubborn shell is immediately absorbed. Trenching the land for potatoes breaks the stratum, and carries off the water so effectually that no other drains are necessary.

    Internet Archive topographicaldic02inlewi, Chapter 290

59. Bethelly Castle ruin on island, Ogonnilloe

    Ogonnelloe · parish · Clare

    On a small island about 100 yards from the shore in the parish of Ogonnilloe are the remains of Bethelly Castle, also called Cahir Castle. Until lately almost perfect, it was partly blown up after being used for illicit distillation and now forms a picturesque ruin.

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    OGONNILLOE, a parish, in the barony of Tulla Lower, union of Scariff, county of Clare, and province of Munster, 5 miles (N. by W.) from Killaloe, on the road to SearifiF; containing 3162 inhabitants. It is situated on the southern side of Scariff bay, which opens into Lough Derg ; and comprises 99'-5 statute acres, including the island of Coskerry, in Lough Derg, which contains 15/ acres. The whole of the parish, with the exception only of about 97 acres, is the property of Major Purdon ; the land is partly in pasture, but chiefly in tillage, and there is some mountain bog. An excellent new road has been constructed along the shores of Lough Derg, in lieu of the hilly road from Scariff to Killaloe, through the centre of the parish. The more elevated parts, and in particular the Gap of Ogonnilloe, command fine views of the lough, the Derry hills on the opposite shore, and the Keeper mountain in the distance. Tinerana, the residence of the Purdon family, is beautifully situated on the banks of Lough Derg, in an extensive and well-wooded demesne. The living is a vicarage, in the diocese of Killaloe, and in the gift of the Bishop ; a portion of the rectory is appropriate to the economy fund of the cathedral of Killaloe, and the remainder forms part of the union of Omullod : the tithe rentcharge is £131. 10. 9., of which £29. 1. 6. are payable to the economy fund, £58. 17. to the incumbent of Omullod, and the remainder to the vicar, who also receives £34. 6. from the economy fund. The glebe-house was built in 1814, when the Board of First Fruits contributed £450, and a loan of £63, towards its erection : attached is a glebe comprising about 10 acres. The church is a neat edifice with a tower surmounted by minarets, erected in 1812 by aid of £800 from the same Board. In the Roman Catholic divisions the parish forms a separate district : the chapel is at the Gap of Ogonnilloe. At Ballybran are the ruins of an old church ; and on a small island about 100 yards from the shore are the remains of Betkelly Castle, also called Cahir Castle. Until lately this castle was almost perfect ; but having been used for illicit distillation, it was partly blown up a few years since, and now forms a picturesque ruin.

    Internet Archive topographicaldic02inlewi, Chapter 219

60. Bianconi's jaunting car service from Clonmel to Cahir

    Clonmel · town · Tipperary · 1815–1837

    In 1815, Mr. Bianconi, an Italian settled at Clonmel, established a communication between Clonmel and Cahir by jaunting car, which grew into an extensive network of cars, horses, and men across Munster, Connaught, and parts of Leinster. His enterprise greatly facilitated intercourse throughout the country.

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    The roads of common construction are generally in good order, especially the mail-coach roads. Two lines of cross road deserve especial notice ; they are called Anglesey's roads, from having been commenced in 1828 under the immediate order of the Marquess of Anglesey, then lord-lieutenant : one, connecting the towns of Newport and Thurles, was completed in 1S30, at an expense of £9857 i the other, from Nenagh to Tipperary, was more recently finished, at an expense of about £17,200. The great object of their construction was, to open a communication into the mountains through which they extend, and which had been for many years the asylum of outlaws and of robbers ; they also afford the means of agricultural improvement to the district, by the introduction of lime from the quarries. A new line has been opened from Mitchelstown to Tipperary ; another, from Lismore to Mitchelstown, through the Knockmeledown range ; and a third, being an extension of the Mitchelstown line, from Tipperary by Dundrum, in the direction of Thurles. Great facilities of intercourse throughout the country are afforded by the exertions of Mr. Bianconi, an intelligent Italian settled at Clonmel, who first established a communication between Clonmel and Cahir by a jaunting car in 1815, and now has depots of cars and horses in every post-town in the county ; in all the counties of Munster except Clare, and of Connaught except Sligo ; and in the counties of Carlow, Kilkenny, King's, Queen's, Longford, Westmeath, and Wexford, in Leinster. There are 84 cars, 816 horses, and 469 men, constantly engaged ; some of the cars carry the cross mails. 588

    Internet Archive topographicaldic02inlewi, Chapter 342