Tours in Ireland, or, Guides to the lakes of Killarney, the county of Wicklow and the Giants Causeway

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

1. St. Kevin turns loaves to stone

   Glendalough · electoral division · Wicklow

   Legend recounts that St. Kevin, meeting a woman who lied about carrying loaves of bread, caused the loaves to become stones as punishment for her deceit; these stones lie scattered near Rhefeart church.

   Read the passage

   On the way to the Rhefeart church another of the miracles wrought by the sainted Kevin is exhibited:—A number of large stones, extremely like loaves of bread, and possessing marks analogous to those made by tke adhesion of loaves to each other in the oven, are scattered on the ground. It is related that St. Kevin, having met a female bearing five loaves in a sack, and inquiring the contents of the sack, she answered that they were stones ; for, it being a time of scarcity, she feared to tell the truth ; upon which, the saint replied, ‘“ If they be not so already, I pray that for your perfidy they may become so ;” when instantly five stones rolled out of the sack. These clumsy relics were preserved for many years in the Rhefeart church, but now lie at some distance from it down the valley,

   Between the cathedral and the lake is a group of large thorn bushes, supposed to have been planted by the hand of the saint. Nothing can exceed the respect and vene= ration in which they are held by the neighbouring inhabitants. Thorn bushes in general are subjects of superstition in Ireland; they are called in the Irish language “‘ monuments ;” and it is believed that the destinies of particular persons are so interwoven with the fate of certain thorns, that it is deemed impious to break up the ground near their roots.

   Internet Archive toursinirelandor00wrig, Chapter 87

2. The deer-stone near Rhefeart church

   Glendalough · electoral division · Wicklow

   A stone with a circular indenture, called the deer-stone, is associated with a legend of St. Kevin causing a deer to give milk to nourish an infant whose mother died in childbirth.

   Read the passage

   origin of this denomination is derived from the following cireumstance :—The wife of one of the peasantry having expired in the pains of child-birth, the surviving infant was left destitute of its natural mode of nurture, nor could any equivalent substitute be procured. The disconsolate father applied to the revered spirit of St. Kevin for relief, and was directed to attend at a certain hour every morning, near the Rhefeart church, at a stone having a little circular indenture in the top, into which a deer would regularly shed her milk, and leave it for the infant’s use: the little destitute is said to have been nourished by the

   GLENDALOUGH. Tt5

   Internet Archive toursinirelandor00wrig, Chapter 87

3. The fabled 1788 volcanic eruption of Knock Lade debunked

   near Knocklayd · mountain or mountain range · Antrim · 1788–1823

   A supposed volcanic eruption on Knock Lade in 1788, said to have killed many and destroyed the village of Ballyowen, was reported in the Dublin Chronicle, but the author found through personal inquiry with local gentry in 1823 that the story was a fable with no basis in fact.

   Read the passage

   On the highest point is a large heap of stones, called in the Gelic tongue, Cairn-an-Truagh, 7. e. the Hillock of the Three: the existing tradition concerning this cairn, states, that three Danish princesses, sisters, after various misfortunes and wanderings, were buried here.* In Seward’s Topography of Ireland, there is an accurate description of an eruption, said to have occurred on this mountain in 1788, by which many lives were lost, and the village of Ballyowen destroyed: Seward does not give his authority for the account, but it can be traced to the Dublin Chronicle for June 7th, 1788, where an extract from a letter, supposed to have been written in Ballycastle, minutely specifies the circumstances attendant on the volcanic eruption. The tourist may rest assured, however, that the whole narration is fabulous ; for, in the first instance, Dr. Hamilton published a second edition of his Letters in 1790, in which there is.not the least notice of such an event; and the writer of this volume made personal inquiry from the neighbouring gentry in 1823, who remember that such a fable was once circulated.t The coal-beds of Fair Head are supposed to extend to the base of this mountain ; and if a flame had burst out of the earth here at any time, it would not be likely to

   * Parochial Survey of Ramoan.

   Internet Archive toursinirelandor00wrig, Chapter 130

4. The Giant's Cut fissure attributed to Fian Mac Comhal

   Derrybawn · townland · Wicklow

   An extraordinary fissure near Derrybawn, where mica slate strata are cleft perpendicularly, is called the Giant's Cut. Tradition attributes the deed to Fian Mac Comhal, who smote the mountain with his sword to prove his strength.

   Read the passage

   The hero to whom this great deed is attributed was Fian Mac Comhal, who, being charged with a want of sufficient corporal strength to acquit himself with glory in the wars, smote the mountain with his sword, and cut it through from top to bottom, to satisfy the apprehensions of his adherents as to his prowess—so says tradition,

   The mountain, from the Giant’s Cut to the entrance of the vale, is called Derrybawn ; part of it is thickly wooded with oak, and near the bridge stood a very beautiful mansion, the residence of Mr. Critchley, which was burned down in the rebellion of 1798.

   Internet Archive toursinirelandor00wrig, Chapter 83

   As the companion tells it

   Somewhere around here is the Giant's Cut, a perpendicular fissure in the mica slate of Derrybawn. Tradition says Fian Mac Comhal, accused of lacking bodily strength for war, smote the mountain with his sword and "cut it through from top to bottom" to prove his prowess. The mountain from here to the vale's entrance is called Derrybawn, thickly wooded with oak. Near the bridge stood Critchley's mansion, which was burned down in the rebellion of 1798.

5. The miracle of the apple-bearing willow

   Glendalough · electoral division · Wicklow

   A legend recounts how St. Kevin cured a sick relative at Glendalough by miraculously producing ripe apples from a willow tree in March, out of season.

   Read the passage

   On another stone, in the same frieze, the saint is repre~ sented embracing his sacred willow, in the foliage of which the medicinal-apple may be discovered. The em-< blem of the apple-bearing willow is explained by the following fable:—“‘ A young man, a near relation of St. Kevin’s, was afflicted by a deadly malady, while residing with his venerable relation at Glendalough ; it was in the month of March, when vegetation had but just commenced, that the poor invalid became possessed with the idea that an apple would prove an effectual remedy for his disorder. The saint, on hearing this wish expressed, went out into the fields, and, directing his attention to a willow, perceived it laden with ripe apples ; plucking three of them without delay, he presented them to his sickly relative, who, from that moment, is said to have become convalescent.”

   Another tale connected with this Cathedral, and which exists only in the legends of tradition, should not be totally unheeded :—the masons and labourers who were employed in the pious task of erecting this venerable structure, were observed by St. Kevin to be gradually losing that health and vigour which they appeared to have

   Internet Archive toursinirelandor00wrig, Chapter 87

6. Albin O'Molloy's sermon and dispute with Giraldus Cambrensis

   Baltinglass · town · Wicklow · 1185

   In 1185, at a synod held in Christ Church Dublin, Albin O'Molloy, abbot of Baltinglass, preached against the conduct of English and Welsh clergy, sparking a spirited contest with historian Giraldus Cambrensis.

   Read the passage

   of Leinster, who was buried here. Many valuable possessions were granted to this institution, by John, Earl of Morton, amongst the rest we find mentioned a salt-pit at Arklow.* In the year 1185, at a synod held in Christ Church, Dublin, Albin O’Molloy, abbot of Baltinglass, preached a very elaborate discourse, upon the continence of the clergy, in which he took occasion to inveigh against the conduct of those who came from England and Wales into this country. This was the cause of a very spirited contest between the abbot and the historian Giraldus Cambrensis. In 1882, Henry Crump, a monk of this abbey, maintained that the body of Christ, in the Eucharist, was only a looking-glass to the body of Christ in heaven. In the 33rd year of Henry VIII, the possessions of the abbey were granted to Thomas Eustace, Viscount Baltinglass, at an annual rent of 10/. 9s. 7d. Irish money ; and in the 30th of Elizabeth, the same lands were granted to Sir Henry Harrington, at a rent. of 117. 19s. Trish money.

   Before the abolition of druidical institutions, this place was also held in great veneration, and was, in all probability, the seat of their superstitious and heathenish practices. The name Baltinglass is derived from the Irish, Beal-tinne-glass, or the fire of Beal’s mysteries, in allusion to the fires lighted here on the 1st of August and Ist of May, in honour of the sun, by the Druids. In confirmation of which there is this remarkable fact, that many cromlechs and other druidical remains are still discoverable in the neighbourhood.

   Internet Archive toursinirelandor00wrig, Chapter 102

   As the companion tells it

   As the road brings you through Baltinglass in Wicklow, this town carries a story from 1185. That year, at a synod held in Christ Church Dublin, Albin O'Molloy, abbot of Baltinglass, preached a very elaborate discourse upon the continence of the clergy. In it he took occasion to inveigh against the conduct of those who came from England and Wales into this country. This was the cause of a very spirited contest between the abbot and the historian Giraldus Cambrensis. The abbey here had received many valuable possessions from John, Earl of Morton, including a salt-pit at Arklow. In 1882, Henry Crump, a monk of this abbey, maintained that the body of Christ in the Eucharist was only a looking-glass to the body of Christ in heaven. In the 33rd year of Henry the Eighth, the possessions of the abbey were granted to Thomas Eustace, Viscount Baltinglass, at an annual rent of 10 pounds, 9 shillings and 7 pence Irish money. In the 30th year of Elizabeth, the same lands were granted to Sir Henry Harrington, at a rent of 117 pounds and 19 shillings Irish money. Before the abolition of druidical institutions, this place was held in great veneration and was probably the seat of their practices. The name Baltinglass comes from the Irish Beal-tinne-glass, the fire of Beal's mysteries, in allusion to fires lighted here on the 1st of August and the 1st of May in honour of the sun by the Druids. Cromlechs and other druidical remains are still discoverable in the neighbourhood.

7. Carnew Castle built by the O'Tooles and its remains

   Carnew · town · Wicklow

   Carnew Castle in the barony of Shilelagh was built by the O'Tooles, whose principal hold was in Imail; Grose recorded that skeletons of men with musket-barrels and a large spur were discovered near the walls during digging.

   Read the passage

   The barony of Shilelagh, a tract of 27,000 acres, which we here turn our back upon, is the property of Earl Fitzwilliam, and was once remarkable for a forest of oak, held in such estimation, that great quantities were exported to the continent for roofing public buildings, and, at this day, some of the Shilelagh oak is shown in the roof of Westminster-hall. In the same barony stands the castle of Carnew, built by the O’Tooles, a powerful clan, or sept, whose principal hold was in the country of Imail. The ruins, or rather what is discernible of the ancient castle, consists of a square, inclosed by walls, having turrets on consoles at two of the angles. Grose mentions, that in digging near the walls, not many years since, the skeletons of several men were discovered, with their musket-barrels near them, some loaded, the balls of which were the usual size, besides a spur with a rowel as large as a crown piece. Fairs are held in the town of Carnew on the second Thursday in February, 1st April, 15th May, 1st July, and first Thursday in August. Carnew is a rectory in the diocese of Ferns.

   @bhora,

   Internet Archive toursinirelandor00wrig, Chapter 80

8. Danes murder Abbot Ardmedius of Coleraine, 930

   near Coleraine · town · Derry · 930

   In 930 Ardmedius, Abbot of Coleraine, was cruelly murdered by the Danes, part of a sequence of violent episodes recorded in the town's early ecclesiastical history.

   Read the passage

   About the year 540, St. Carbreus, a disciple of) St. Finian of Clonard, was made first Bishop of Coleraine. To him succeeded St. Eonall, who was Bishop in the time of St. Columb, the founder of the Abbey of Derry. In 930, Ardmedius, Abbot of Coleraine, was. cruelly murdered by the Danes; and, in 1171, Manus M‘Dunlave plundered this church and several others. In 1213, Thomas M‘Uchtry and the Gauls of Ulster, erected a castle here, for which purpose they raised all the pavement, ard destroyed every part of the Abbey, the church only excepted.

   To the west of the town stood a monastery, called the Monastery of the Bann, founded in the fifth century, by the noble family of O’Cahans, or by the M‘Evelins. In 1244, it was dedicated to the Virgin Mary ; and, in 1484, was reformed by the Dominican order. In 1560, Sir Robert Savage, of Ulster, Knt. an excellent soldier, was buried here. And in 1644, this. monastery was

   Internet Archive toursinirelandor00wrig, Chapter 157

9. Elizabeth grants Belfast to the Smiths on military condition

   near Belfast · city · Antrim

   Elizabeth granted the demesne, castle, and village of Belfast to Sir Thomas Smith and his son on condition they raise and support horse and foot to serve the crown, assembling at Antrim; the condition was later unmet leading to forfeiture claimed by Sir Arthur Chichester.

   Read the passage

   The castle must have been erected at a very remote period, but all record of its founder and date of its building have long since perished. We learn, however, that it was twice taken by the Earl of Kildare, first in 1503, and a second time in 1512. Prior to the reign of Elizabeth, though the precise year is unknown, it was inhabited by Randolphus Lane; and in 1598 the town is described as lying eight miles up the river from Carrick-Fergus, and the river itself is represented as being then fordable at the town. Elizabeth granted the demesne, castle, and village of Belfast to Sir Thomas, Smith, and to Thomas Smith the younger, on condition of their raising and supporting a body of horse and foot, which should serve her majesty when required, and should. assemble in. Antrim. In the reign of James the First, the fulfilment: of this-condition was required ; but neither horse nor foot appearing at the appointed rendezvous, Sir Arthur Chichester, with that cunning for which he was afterwards so. remarkable, laid claim, as Lord Deputy, to the forfeited lands, and was confirmed in the possession by his Majesty.. In the fifth year of the same monarch,. Sir Arthur. procured. & charter, constituting Belfast a corporate town,. to be governed by a sovereign, twelve burgesses, &c. with. the privilege of sending two representatives. to parliament. Sir Arthur was also appointed constable of the:castle,.and

   upon the 23rd of February,.1612, created Baron of Belfast. |

   Internet Archive toursinirelandor00wrig, Chapter 106

10. Excavated caves of Red Bay used for smith's forge and illicit spirits

    Red Bay · townland · Antrim

    Three caves at Red Bay, formed by ancient tidal erosion, are put to varied uses: one as a smith's forge with a Cyclopian appearance, another reportedly the residence of a woman who sold illicit spirits.

    Read the passage

    Passing the small neglected hamlet of Waterfoot, at the mouth of the Glenariff river, the caves of Red Bay are reached: they are excavations, probably formed at some remote period by the imroads of the tide, which is now excluded, by the embankment in front, in a species of soft red sand-stone. There are three of tolerable magnitude, one of which is very appropriately converted into a smith’s forge, and affords a very Cyclopian appearance. A second is reported, in all probability with sufficient reason, to have been the residence of a female, whose trade was the sale of illicit spirits. The third is not converted to any important purpose.

    On the extreme end of the southern cliff stands the ruined Castle of Red Bay, upon a similar argillaceous conglomerate. Beneath the bank are three distinct excavations of considerable dimensions ; one of which was not long since used to dispense the blessings of education in, by a poor school-master, but is now degraded into a nightly sheep-pen. The new road here passes outside the cliff, close to the shore ; and in excavating the red clay to continue this new line, a lofty gothic arch-way has been fantastically cut in the bank, through which the road to Cushendall passes. The castle, which is now totally ruined, stands in a very commanding, but very exposed situation. It was built by the Bissetts, from whom the Antrim family derive this barony ; but of its former extent or style of architecture, nothing important can now be traced.*

    Internet Archive toursinirelandor00wrig, Chapter 124

11. Glenmalure barracks built after 1798 Rebellion

    near Glenmalur · valley · Wicklow · 1798–1822

    A large formal barrack was raised in the centre of Glenmalure valley shortly after the Rebellion to garrison troops and prevent outlaws sheltering there. Four such barracks stood on the military road between Rathfarnham and Aughavanagh; by 1822 only a sergeant's guard remained in each.

    Read the passage

    The barrack standing in the centre of the vale isa large formal structure, raised shortly after the Rebellion, in order to garrison troops in the most remote districts, and prevent the sheltering of outlaws and desperadoes. There are four of these upon the military road between Rathfarnham, in the county of Dublin, and its termination at Aughavanah ; they are Glencree, or more properly Glenacreagh, Lara, Drumgoff, and Leitrim. The extreme tranquillity which has prevailed in this county for near

    94 GLENMALURE—LUGNAQUILLA.

    Internet Archive toursinirelandor00wrig, Chapter 81

12. Jacques Wingfield's martial law commission against the O'Byrnes and O'Tooles

    near Glenmalur · valley · Wicklow · 1560

    In 1560 Jacques Wingfield was given a commission to execute martial law in the territories of the O'Byrnes and O'Tooles and the marshes of Dublin, and accompanied Lord De Grey in an expedition to Glenmalure against rebels under Fitz-Eustace and Pheagh Mac Hugh.

    Read the passage

    In the reign of Elizabeth, Jacques Wingfield was appointed Master of the Ordnance and Munition in Ireland, and in 1560 had a commission to execute martial law in the territories of the O’Byrnes and O’Tooles, and the marshes of Dublin, and he accompanied Lord De Grey in an expedition to Glenmalure against a body of rebels under the command of Fitz-Eustace and Pheagh Mac Hugh. In 1600, Sir Richard Wingfield, who had greatly distinguished himself in the expedition against Tyrone, in which he received a wound in the elbow, and also displayed great valour in the attempt upon Calais, was appointed, by Elizabeth, to succeed Sir Richard Bingham as

    24 POWERSCOURT.

    Internet Archive toursinirelandor00wrig, Chapter 54

13. Legend of the Serpent under the Gap of Dunloe

    near Gap of Dunloe · pass · Kerry

    Tourists are told by their guide that an enormous serpent lives in a pool beneath a castellated cliff in the Gap of Dunloe, a local tradition kept alive for visitors passing through the pass.

    Read the passage

    At an early hour on the morning of the third day, but remembering to take a hearty breakfast first, mount your shelty, and ride to Aghadoe Church. See the Round Tower, the Round Castle, called by the peasantry the Pulpit, and the stone bearing an Ogham inscription. Returning to the high road, pursue the road to Laune or Beaufort bridge, and, crossing the river, visit the Castle of Dunloe. After a short stay in the demesne, keep the mountain road to the Gap, and proceed, by slow and measured steps, through the Pass to the farther end in the vale of Comme Duff. The bugle should be kept in unceasing employment all through the Pass, but particularly under the castellated cliff hanging over the pool, in which the guide asserts there is an enormous serpent.

    Entering the valley of Comme Duff, visit the Waterfall, the best supplied cascade in the whole country. See the Islands on the Comme Duff Lakes, and following the stony bed of a little mountain torrent, arrive at Gheramine, the seat of Lord Brandon. See the cottage and tower, and embark at his lordship’s boat-house, where the boat from Killarney will be found waiting. Row to Ronan’s Island, and having landed, take refreshment in the cottage ; then ascend the eminence on this island, and take a view of the seven islands.

    Internet Archive toursinirelandor00wrig, Chapter 40

14. Petrifying tradition of Lough Neagh's holly wood

    near Lough Neagh · lake or lakes · Antrim

    Tradition held that pieces of holly placed in Lough Neagh's waters could be transmuted into stone within seven years, though later scientific experiments over twenty years showed no such petrifaction, and a folk account claimed a holly stake driven into the lakebed turned to iron below, stone in the middle, and remained wood above water.

    Read the passage

    Tradition states, that pieces of holly have been come pletely transmuted into stone in the space of seven years, by the waters of the lake, while the experiments of the philosopher prove that a lapse of twenty years was in-

    —

    Internet Archive toursinirelandor00wrig, Chapter 161

15. Saint Comgall driven from Raghery by armed men

    near Rathlin Island · island or archipelago · Antrim · 400–499

    In the beginning of the fifth century, Saint Comgall landed on Raghery Island intending to erect a cell, but was seized by thirty military men who drove him from the island.

    Read the passage

    In the beginning of the fifth century, “ Saint Comgall ‘landed on this island, with an intent to erect a cell ; but ‘he was instantly seized by a band of thirty military “men, who, holding his hands, drove him out of the « Island.” We are not informed by whose orders thisholy man was so inhospitably received and so rudely treated ; but St. Columba, the founder of the Abbey of Derry, A. D. 546, succeeded: he founded a church here, and placed over it Colman, the deacon, the son of Roi- Dr. Lannigan attributes the foundation of this chapel to Segenius, Abbot of Hy, in the year 653. In the year 795, this island was invaded or infested by the Scandinavian free-booters, vulgarly called Danes, who pillaged the church, and burned and destroyed what they could not re« move ; and in 973, these ruthless despoilers crowned with martyrdom St. Feradach, the holy abbot of this church. In 1551, it was invaded by the English, who were repulsed with the loss of one vessel ;+ and in 1558, the Scots took possession of Raghery, but were soon after expelled, with dreadful slaughter, by the Lord Deputy, Sussex, who seized upon it for the English Crown.

    There is a tradition of a dreadful massacre having been perpetrated here some years back by the Highland clan of

    Internet Archive toursinirelandor00wrig, Chapter 136

16. Sir John Parnell's retreat cottage at Avondale

    Avondale · townland · Wicklow

    After Hayes's death, Avondale passed to Sir John Parnell, Chancellor of the Exchequer in Ireland, who built a pretty cottage retreat now regarded as classic and historic ground where he reflected on public affairs.

    Read the passage

    After the death of Mr. Hayes, this magnificent demesne passed into the possession of that celebrated ‘statesman and inflexible patriot, the Right Honourable Sir John Parnell, Baronet, Chancellor of the Exchequer in Ireland, to whose descendants it now belongs. Sir John continued to improve these very interesting grounds with the same zeal and as much taste as his amiable predecessor. There is a very pretty cottage in the demesne, built by him, which possesses a solitary, sequestered, pensive cha racter, quite superior to any little rustic residence I have seen in this county; and which, besides, is now looked upon as classic and historic ground, having been the retreat of the upright statesman who once dwelt in Avondale. Here he was wont to reflect upon the different parts he was afterwards called to act in public for his country’s good. This pretty rustic dwelling is now used as a banqueting-hall by parties visiting the demesne, and must form a strong contrast, indeed, to the refectories which most visiters are in the daily habit of using. Near the cottage is an enormous rock, three hundred feet in height, hanging over the river, from whence the private road continues to the bridge at the meeting of the waters, where it falls in with the high road to Arklow.

    Mr. Parnell Hayes, the successor of Sir John, had the merit of being an excellent farmer, and besides, he. endeavoured to recommend to the notice of the country, the advantages of manufacturing coarse wools, by erecting an apparatus for dying and dressing at his seat of Avon-~ dale. The advantage of the introduction of a manufac-

    Internet Archive toursinirelandor00wrig, Chapter 73

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere close to Avondale stands a cottage built by Sir John Parnell, Chancellor of the Exchequer in Ireland, who came into possession of this demesne after the death of Mr. Hayes. Sir John kept improving the grounds with zeal and taste, and he built this pretty rustic retreat, which a visitor described as having a solitary, sequestered, pensive character quite superior to any little residence he had seen in the county. It is now looked upon as classic and historic ground, the retreat of the upright statesman who once dwelt in Avondale. Here Sir John was wont to reflect upon the different parts he was afterwards called to act in public for his country's good. The cottage is now used as a banqueting-hall by parties visiting the demesne. Near it stands an enormous rock, 300 feet in height, hanging over the river, from which a private road continues to the bridge at the meeting of the waters, where it meets the high road to Arklow. Sir John's successor, Mr. Parnell Hayes, was an excellent farmer and erected apparatus for dying and dressing coarse wools at Avondale, endeavouring to recommend the advantages of manufacturing coarse wools to the country.

17. Slaying of Dall the Danish invader by reapers at Cushendall

    Cushendall · townland · Antrim

    Tradition holds that Dall or Dallas, a Danish or Scotch intruder, landed near Cushendall during harvest and was despatched by reapers with their reaping hooks, then interred on the shore. Others say Dallas was a Scotch pirate slain by Ossian on the same spot.

    Read the passage

    The road in front of the inn leads towards the seashore, and also to the church of Lade. Not many yards from the inn is an agreeable patch of verdant mead . washed by the sea, and opposite to the central part of the small bay. Here we are told that Dall or Dallas, a Danish or Scotch intruder, landed, during the harvest of the year, when a number of reapers were engaged in this very field, who, not being provided with other weapons, despatched the gigantic invader with their reaping hooks, and interred him on the shore. Others assert, that Dallas was a Scotch pirate, who was slain on this spot by the illustrious Ossian; but the decision of the controversy does not appear to be of very great importance,

    _In,this neighbourhood the poems of Ossian are perfectly well known, and from tradition totally, which has

    Internet Archive toursinirelandor00wrig, Chapter 125

18. St. Kevin's Bed and the legend of Cathleen's drowning

    Glendalough · electoral division · Wicklow

    St. Kevin's Bed is a small cave perched over the lake, associated with a tradition that no mortal has drowned there since St. Kevin's prayer following the death of the fair Cathleen.

    Read the passage

    at every step of which the slightest false trip would precipitate the pedestrian into the lake below; certainly the guide endeavours to infuse an additional degree of confidence into his followers, by assuring them, that since the fate of the fair Cathleen, at which period St. Kevin prayed that none might ever find a watery grave in that lake, no mortal has ever perished there. There is one place in particular where all the eloquence of the guide is sure to be exerted to encourage the party, and where it frequently proves unsuccessful, that is, the ledge of rock called The Lady’s Leap. After passing this rubicon, the’ landing place immediately above the cave is soon reached, without difficulty ; but the visiter must descend with caution, his face being turned to the rock down which he climbs, while the guide directs him which way he is to turn, and where to plant his foot, until at last he reaches the mouth of the sainted bed. The bed is about thirty yards from the surface of the water, and the front of the rock for the whole of the height or depth, perfectly perpendicular. Those who are not disposed to confide in the efficacy of St. Kevin’s prayers, for the safety of his posthumous visiters, can see the cave distinctly from the opposite side of the lake; and if there | should be any persons entering at the time, it will mark | out the path and its dangers more distinctly, than even | the persons actually engaged in the task can perceive. After the rebellion of 1798 a few of the outlaws remained concealed in the fastnesses of the Wicklow mountains, | and with these government thought proper to capitulate, | rather than continue so difficult a pursuit with so little | success as it had hitherto been attended with. The most celebrated offender was Dwyer, better known to the world as the Wicklow desperado ; being closely pur-

    Internet Archive toursinirelandor00wrig, Chapter 89

19. St Kevin's Keeve stream with miraculous healing powers

    Glendalough · electoral division · Wicklow

    A rivulet near the village called St Kevin's Keeve was said to possess miraculous powers on the saint's festival and on Sundays and Thursdays, with unhealthy children dipped in it before sunrise to obtain healing.

    Read the passage

    Not far from the village is a rivulet, called St. Kevin’s Keeve, which is said to possess miraculous powers, on the festival of St. Kevin, and on all Sundays and Thursdays. Unhealthy children are dipped in this stream in expectation of participating in the anodyne qualities of the water :—the immersion must be made before sunrise.

    The river Glendason, or Glenasane, rises about four miles from Glendalough, in a small pool, called Lough Nahanagan or Nahanfan ; and, after traversing the valley of Glenasane, contributes its waters to swell the flood of the Churches river, below the city of Glendalough. The brook of Glaneola flows into the upper lake at the western end of the glen, and a considerable body of water falls in the cleft between Lugduff and Derrybawn, all of which are tributary to the great river of the vale, which, passing under Derrybawn bridge, assumes the name of Avonmore, or the Great River, In this miserable little sequestered hamlet, the traveller should inquire for a guide, well-informed in the traditions of the churches, many of which will be related in the following pages. The most celebrated character of this description ever known in Glendalough, was Joe Irvine, whose fabulous tales were numerous and interesting.

    Internet Archive toursinirelandor00wrig, Chapter 86

20. The Eagle's Nest echo phenomenon

    Eagle's Nest · island or archipelago · Donegal · 1821

    The great rock known as the Eagle's Nest produces a miraculous echo, tested by firing a small cannon (paterara) from a hillock called the 'Station for Audience.' In 1821 a famous bugler named Spalane demonstrated the echo's musical effect to visitors.

    Read the passage

    can be procured at Killarney is a bugle, which is peculiarly appropriate for the production of echoes, and in 1821, one of the best performers in Great Britain, Spalane, afforded the visiters to Lough Lein an opportunity of gratifying their curiosity by listening, amid the rude recesses of the mountains, to the most ecstatic tones, and the most dulcet harmony, apparently produced by preternatural influence.

    Leaving the Eagle’s Nest, rocks and islands succeed in endless variety of form. Holly Island, the Four Friends, &c. and the mountain denominated Newfoundland, begin now to appear southward. The river meanders even more than at its northern entrance, and, at the precise opening to the Upper Lake, narrows so much, that there appears no egress from the last basin of the river.

    Internet Archive toursinirelandor00wrig, Chapter 22

21. The great cave at Ovens

    Ovens · electoral division · Cork

    Near the junction of the Bride and Lee rivers stands the village of Ovens, site of an extraordinary limestone cave with numerous diverging corridors of uncertain extent. Local peasantry claimed the cave reached as far as Gill-Abbey near Cork, though guides were unfamiliar with its true depths.

    Read the passage

    Near the junction of the Bride and Lee stand the Church and Village of Ovens.* Here is an extraordinary cave, beneath a limestone arch; in some places it is upwards of twenty feet high, in others, not more than six; there are numerous diverging corridors within about twenty yards from the entrance, some of them returning back into the cave, and others continuing to a length as yet unascertained. Strangers should be extremely cautious of venturing into this Cretan labyrinth, without such a clue as Ariadne gave to Theseus, for the guides are not at all acquainted with the intricacies of this subterranean wonder. The sides and roof are covered with a stalactical matter, or gypsum, which is a most efficacious cement. Persons are said to have proceeded for a quarter of a mile, or upwards, into this grotto in safety, and the peasantry about the village assert, that it reaches as far as Gill-Abbey, near Cork.

    Several other castles are seen, but at distances too great from the highroad to admit of being visited, unless by residents in the neighbourhood ; amongst them are Crookstown, Inch, and Kilcowra. Near Crookstown, on the

    Internet Archive toursinirelandor00wrig, Chapter 3

22. Tradition of the Oxford lads deceived by Latin-speaking washerwomen

    Killarney · townland · Kerry

    A local tradition tells of Oxford visitors who boasted of testing Kerry gentry in Latin, only to be answered in Latin by washerwomen at a ford who were in fact their disguised Irish companions from the previous evening.

    Read the passage

    There is a tradition prevalent in this neighbourhood, of a party of Oxford lads, who, coming to visit the Lakes, were heard to express a wish of meeting some of the gentry of Kerry, to hazard a game of capping verses, or other classical feats with them; afew young gentlemen of Killarney, who happened to be present, suggested to them the possibility of being worsted in the contest, for in that county, the very peasants spoke Latin ; the Oxonians were not to be deterred, and setting out in their cabriolet next morning, arrived at a ford, where some young women were employed beetling clothes, upon whom they jocularly lavished some lines of Virgil, when, *‘ mirabile dictu,” the washerwomen replied in the same language. The Oxonians gazed on each other with surprise and dismay, and hurried along in their cabriolet as fast as their mountain shelty could move this unusual conveyance, without once reflecting upon the pos-

    sibility of deception: these washerwomen being no other D

    Internet Archive toursinirelandor00wrig, Chapter 17

23. Destruction of Lord Portlester's monument at New Abbey, 1784

    New Abbey · street · Kildare · 1784

    The monument of Lord Portlester remained intact in New Abbey until 1784, when it was destroyed and the stones removed to build a Roman Catholic chapel; a similar cenotaph survives in St. Audoen's church in Dublin, and an engraving of the original tomb as it stood in 1784 exists in the Anthologia Hibernica.

    Read the passage

    Eustace ; it was once a place of some consequence, and founded by the Eustaces, an ancient and respectable family, shortly after the English invasion. The Eustaces are descended from Maurice Fitzgerald, to whom the canthred or barony of Naas was granted by Henry II, by Eustace, fourth son of a branch of that family. In 1200, Richard Fitz Eustace was created Baron of Castlemartin ; in 1462, one of the family, Sir Rowland Fitz Eustace, was created Baron of Portlester, and was lord chancellor of Ireland for several years. This Lord Portlester was married to Margaret, daughter of Jenico D’Artois, whose daughter Allison was married to Gerald, eighth Earl of Kildare, who died of grief for the imprisonment of her husband, and was buried in New Abbey, in the county Kildare, founded by her father. The monument of Lord Portlster remained perfect until 1784, inthe New Abbey ; it was then destroyed, the stones of that ruin being removed to build a Roman Catholic chapel ; but a cenotaph exactly similar, erected to the memory of Lord and Lady Portlester, may be seen in the old church of St. Andoen’s, in Dublin ;* and there is a correct engraving of the tomb at New Abbey, as it stood in 1784, in the third vol. of the Anthologia Hibernica. Another branch of this noble family obtained the title of Barons of Kilcullen, and a third of Viscount Baltinglass, but all their titles are now extinct. The last remnant of this once great family resided in Harristown, a beautiful seat, now in the possession of John Latouche, Esq., but if there be any branch still in existence they have no claim whatever on the original estates of the family.

    Ballymore Eustace is now reduced to complete insig-

    Internet Archive toursinirelandor00wrig, Chapter 99

    As the companion tells it

    Along here is New Abbey, founded by the Eustace family shortly after the English invasion. The Eustaces descended from Maurice Fitzgerald, to whom Henry the Second granted the barony of Naas. In 1200, Richard Fitz Eustace was created Baron of Castlemartin. In 1462, Sir Rowland Fitz Eustace was created Baron of Portlester, and served as lord chancellor of Ireland for several years. Lord Portlester married Margaret, daughter of Jenico D'Artois. Their daughter Allison married Gerald, eighth Earl of Kildare. Allison died of grief for the imprisonment of her husband, and was buried here in New Abbey, founded by her father. Lord Portlester's monument remained perfect until 1784. It was then destroyed, and the stones were removed to build a Roman Catholic chapel. But a cenotaph exactly similar, erected to the memory of Lord and Lady Portlester, can be seen in the old church of St. Audoen's in Dublin. There is also a correct engraving of the tomb as it stood in 1784, in the third volume of the Anthologia Hibernica. Other branches of this family obtained the titles of Barons of Kilcullen and Viscount Baltinglass, but all their titles are now extinct. The last remnant of this once great family resided in Harristown, now in the possession of John Latouche.

24. Baltinglass: the ancient Vallis Salutis and its Cistercian abbey

    Baltinglass · town · Wicklow · 1151

    Baltinglass, situated in the Vallis Salutis on the river Slaney, was a borough town that sent two members to parliament and hosted assizes. Its abbey was founded in 1151 for Cistercian monks by Diarmit M'Murchad O'Cavanagh, King of Leinster, who was buried there.

    Read the passage

    There is an old castle, close to the town, in the Vallis Salutis, in which probably the parliaments used to assemble, when this was their place of meeting. The abbey of the Vallis Salutis was founded, according to the annals of Mary’s Abbey,* in 1151, for monks of the Cistercian order, by Diarmit M‘Murchad O’Cavanagh, King

    * Lanigan, vol. iv. p. 187, and Ware, p. 80,

    Internet Archive toursinirelandor00wrig, Chapter 102

    As the companion tells it

    Up ahead is Baltinglass, a town in Wicklow set in the old Vallis Salutis on the river Slaney. There is an old castle close to the town where parliaments probably assembled. The abbey here was founded in 1151 for Cistercian monks by Diarmit M'Murchad O'Cavanagh, King of Leinster, who was buried there.

25. Belfast occupied by General Monk during the rebellion era

    near Belfast · city · Antrim · 1641–1648

    Belfast's growth was retarded by the rebellion of 1641; in 1643 a rampart and wall were built on the town's land side, and in 1648 the town was occupied by General Monk on behalf of Parliament.

    Read the passage

    Its rising greatness was much retarded by the rebellion of 1641; and in 1643, a rampart and wall were thrown up on the west, or land-side of the town; and in 1648, it was occupied by General Monk, for the Parliament. James the Second attempted to impese a new charter upon the corporation, but their resolute attachment to William III. compelled them to reject it. The rapidity with which the population, trade, and wealth of this flourishing town have increased, is such as seldom falls to the lot of any settlement, and is only equalled by the persevering steadiness with which its inhabitants continue to pursue that honourable and spirited commercial conduct which has exalted them so greatly amongst the ports of Europe.

    The increase of this town as to population may be as-

    Internet Archive toursinirelandor00wrig, Chapter 107

26. Burial of Aeneas Voighragh, slain at the battle of Glenshesk

    Bonamargy · townland · Antrim · 1595

    In 1595, Aeneas Voighragh, who was slain by O'Neil at the battle of Glenshiesk, was interred at the Abbey of Bona-Margy.

    Read the passage

    The Abbey of Bona-Margy was founded in the year 1509 by Charles M‘Donnell, for Franciscan Friars of the third order, and is one of the latest monastic edifices erected in Ireland. In 1595, AMneas Voighragh, who was slain by O’Neil, at the battle of Glenshiesk, was interred here. And here also rest the ashes of the famous James M‘Sorley, who defeated the last of the M‘Quillans.

    The chapel measures about one hundred feet in length, by thirty-four in breadth, and is now unroofed. The eastern end is ornamented by some tolerably executed bas reliefs, and the eastern window was of considerable dimensions, and highly enriched with sculpture. On the south side is a tomb, bearing. this inscription, in Roman capitals :—

    Internet Archive toursinirelandor00wrig, Chapter 128

27. Chichester tricks M'Quillan out of Inishowen

    near Inishowen · townland · Donegal

    Sir John Chichester persuaded the disconsolate M'Quillan, dismayed at having to move his people across the Bann and Lough Foyle to his new grant of Inishowen, to cede the title in exchange for lands nearer his old territory, thus founding the Chichester estate.

    Read the passage

    M‘Quillan was extremely mortified at his ill success, and very disconsolate at the difficulties attendant upon transporting his poor people: over the river Bann and Lough Foyle, which lay between him and his new territory. Sir John Chichester, who was remarkable for cunning and prudence, took advantage of his situation, and persuaded him to cede his title, by an offer of some lands which lay nearer to his old dominions. Thus, the Chichesters, afterwards Earls of Donegal, became possessed of this great estate, and honest M‘Quillan settled himself in one far inferior to Inishowen.

    The new estate of the M‘Quillans was called Clanaghurtie, which proving unequal to sustain the lavish expenditure to. which the proprietors had once been accustomed, soon passed into more frugal hands.

    Internet Archive toursinirelandor00wrig, Chapter 155

28. Coleraine planted with English colonists under Elizabeth

    near Coleraine · town · Derry

    Coleraine was originally laid out by Lord Deputy Sir John Perrott in Elizabeth's reign, with a central parallelogram square known as the Diamond; the town was planted with English colonists whose houses were reportedly framed in London and shipped over.

    Read the passage

    The city of Coleraine,* or Bannina, as it was anciently styled, lies about two miles and a half from this curious basaltic structure; the road, passing the seat of —— M‘Naghten, Esq. is rather an agreeable ride. The county of the city of Coleraine, otherwise called O Cahan’s country, is of ancient appointment ; it was divided, as we learn from the Hibernica of Harris, into ballyboes, as Tyrone, and contained 547 of these measures, or 34,187 acres. ‘The town appears to have been originally laid out by Sir John Perrott, Lord Deputy of Ireland, in the reign of Elizabeth. In the centre was a space in the form of a parallelogram, built round with tolerable regularity, now usually called the Diamond. The energy which appears to have pervaded all classes of persons in the employment of the state during the life of Elizabeth, is no where more conspicuous than in this country; first, in the exertions of her officers to reduce it to obedience; and secondly, in their perseverance in endeavouring to colonize and build. Coleraine was planted with English colonists, and the very houses are said to have been framed in London, and sent over here tobe erected. Until very lately, some of the black oak frames filled with plaistered wicker, were to be seen on one side of the Diamond.

    After the retirement of Sir John, Coleraine fell greatly to decay ; in 1618, the walls and ramparts were built of sods ; there was no provision for the mounting of a single piece of artillery, and the number of inhabitants scarcely sufficient to man one-sixth part of the walls.

    Internet Archive toursinirelandor00wrig, Chapter 156

29. Delgany Church built by Peter La Touche in 1789

    near Delgany · town · Wicklow · 1789–1790

    Delgany church was built by Peter La Touche in 1789 to a design by Whitmore Davis of County Antrim, and on its completion in 1790 public thanks were given to the benefactor by the rector and church wardens. The interior features a splendid 24-foot white marble monument to David La Touche by Irish artist Noah Hickey.

    Read the passage

    The church was built by Peter La Touche, Esq. in 1789, after a design by Whitmore Davis, of the county Antrim; and upon its completion, in 1790, thanks were returned in the public papers* to the generous benefactor, in the name of the parish, by the Rev. Joseph Stock, rector, and the church wardens, John Scott and John Rawdon, Esqrs. In front of the church-door is a long shed for the protection of horses, carriages, and servants, during service, a plan quite novel, and a most

    nT

    Internet Archive toursinirelandor00wrig, Chapter 61

    As the companion tells it

    Up ahead is Delgany in County Wicklow. The church here was built by Peter La Touche in 1789 to a design by Whitmore Davis of County Antrim. When it was finished in 1790, the rector, Reverend Joseph Stock, and the church wardens, John Scott and John Rawdon, put public thanks in the papers to the generous benefactor on behalf of the parish. There is a long shed in front of the church door for horses, carriages and servants during service, described at the time as a novel plan.

30. Discovery of St. Kevin's tomb by Samuel Hayes

    Glendalough · electoral division · Wicklow · 618

    The tomb of St. Kevin, who died in 618, was found in a small crypt or oratory near the abbey by Samuel Hayes, Esq., offering evidence for the historical existence of the saint.

    Read the passage

    These specimens are quite unique in Ireland, and if with this we couple the circumstance of the tomb of St. Kevin, who died in 618, being found in a small crypt or oratory, near the abbey, lately discovered by Samuel Hayes, Esq. (which by-the-by is an additional and tolerably convincing proof of the existence of such a person), the reader may be disposed to attribute a greater antiquity to this building than he might at first be willing to allow. Ledwich concludes, without much reason, that these sculptures and the abbey itself are of Danish origin, and’ denies the existence of St. Kevin, although he admits his death, for he says expressly that his tomb is contained in the crypt spoken of above.

    This is the last of the churches: the visiter will perceive the ruins of more than seven buildings, but it is impossible to say how they. were connected ; and besides, some may have been built after the mystical number had been completed, consequently are not to be included in the enumeration. Those properly called the Seven Churches, are —1, the Cathedral ; 2, St. Kevin’s-Kitchen ; 3, Our Lady’s Church ; 4, Rhefeart ; 5, the Priory of St. Saviour; 6, the Ivy Church; 7, Teampull-na-Skellig.

    Internet Archive toursinirelandor00wrig, Chapter 88

31. Druidical circle at Mount Druid Demesne, Killiney

    Killiney · townland · Dublin

    At Killiney, in a field behind Mount Druid Demesne, stands a druidical circle containing a temple, with the chair of the high priest and a sacrificing stone, carefully preserved and only visitable by permission of the proprietor.

    Read the passage

    Let us now hasten towards the appointed goal, the town of Bray, and on the way thither, from the village of Killiney, there are but two objects of additional interest, as the view continues uninterrupted and equally beautiful until you reach the Dublin road, where the lowness of situation deprives you of further scenic enjoy~ ment until you arrive at Bray. At Killiney, in a field behind a gentleman’s residence, called Mount Druid Demesne, is a druidical circle, containing a temple, with the chair of the high priest and sacrificing stone ; these curious remnants of antiquity are carefully preserved in an enclosure, and cannot be visited without the permis™ sion of the proprietor. On the side of the hill, overlooking Leighlinstown, is a pyramidical pillar, erected to the memory of the late Duke of Dorset, who was killed by a fall from his. horse, while hunting with Lord Powerscourt’s hounds, His grace was, ati the time of this melancholy catastrophe, not more than twenty-two years of age, had resided for some time in Ireland, and, by his gentlemanly and amiable manners, created a general feeling of affectionate regard towards him in the hearts of the nation: his noble mother, then vice-queen of Ireland, had an incontestible proof, in the respect shown to the memory of her son after death, of the sincerity of the regard entertained for him by this country during his life-time.

    At the foot of Killiney Hills, on the south bank of the Leighlinstown River, stand the ruins of Shangana Castle,

    Internet Archive toursinirelandor00wrig, Chapter 45

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere close to Killiney, in a field behind a gentleman's residence called Mount Druid Demesne, stands a druidical circle. The circle contains a temple, and within it are the chair of the high priest and a sacrificing stone. These remnants of antiquity are carefully preserved inside an enclosure, and they cannot be visited without the permission of the proprietor. From the village of Killiney the way towards Bray continues with a view uninterrupted and equally beautiful until the Dublin road, where the lowness of the situation deprives a traveller of further scenic enjoyment until Bray. Between Killiney and that point there are but two objects of additional interest. The circle is one. The other is a pyramidical pillar on the side of the hill overlooking Leighlinstown, erected to the memory of the late Duke of Dorset. He was killed by a fall from his horse while hunting with Lord Powerscourt's hounds. He was not more than twenty-two years of age at the time of this catastrophe. He had resided for some time in Ireland, and by his gentlemanly and amiable manners created a general feeling of affectionate regard towards him in the hearts of the nation. His noble mother, then vice-queen of Ireland, had an incontestable proof, in the respect shown to the memory of her son after death, of the sincerity of the regard entertained for him by this country during his lifetime.

32. Glenarm village and castle in a sequestered glen

    near Glenarm · village · Antrim

    The village and castle of Glenarm sit in the lowest bottom of a deep sequestered glen, historically accessible only by sea or narrow pass, with the ancient castle of the Earls of Antrim on one side of the stream and the village with salt-works and lime-quarries on the other.

    Read the passage

    \Havine reached the summit of the hill, the village and castle of Glenarm suddenly present themselves, in the very lowest bottom of a deep sequestered glen. The hills appear to hang over the village on either side, and it would seem that in former years this retreat was inaccessible, except by sea, or the narrow pass along the glen. On one side of a mountain-stream stands the little village, with its salt-works and lime-quarries, and on the other the ancient castle of the Earls of Antrim, with the meeting-house and parish-church, whose modest spire is the only rival of the neighbouring hills, and which serves as an index to the way-worn traveller, who else might seek in vain for the habitations of men, so completely concealed and sheltered is the lovely retreat of Glenarm. There are two beautiful villages in North Wales, to which we might compare Glenarm, but the one, Beddgelert, wants the bold sea-beaten shore, and the other, Tre-Madoc, the closely impending hills.

    The village of Glenarm consists of about two hundred cottages, and appears originally to have been built for the clans-men of the noble family whose castle stands beyond the river. The castle is a stately, ancient pile, in a commanding position ; from one front there is a view of the bay and its inclosing promontories, and from the other a prospect up the wooded glen towards the Deer Park. The castle is large, and contains some excellent apartments ; but its exterior has been much disfigured by injudicious alterations. The taste and judgment, however, ef the present proprietor, Edward M‘Donnell, Esq. will

    Internet Archive toursinirelandor00wrig, Chapter 119

33. Governor's fish claim abandoned in 1755

    Carrickfergus · townland · Antrim · 1755

    The commanding officer of the Carrick-Fergus garrison formerly claimed a right to the second best fish in every boat, strictly exercised until 1755, when it was abandoned and never revived.

    Read the passage

    There was a claim formerly pertaining to the commanding officer of the garrison, viz. a right to the second best fish m every boat, which was strictly exercised until 1755, at which period it was abandoned, and has not been revived. Such claims are usually made by corporations, but very unfrequently by any other denomination of persons. The Lord Mayor of Dublin exacts a certain quantity of Carlingford oysters from each boat upon its arrival in the river.

    Before we quit Carrick-Fergus, let us not omit to mention some of the natural curiosities of the soil and country, which possibly are the sole objects of inquiry to many travellers. The soil near the sea-side contains some valuable earths, such as pipe-clay, potters-earth, and brick-clay. Pipe-clay was formerly an object of commerce, and was exported in great quantities; but. this trade appears to be lost at present. Here, too, trap makes its appearance, accompanied by the white. lime-stone, sand-stone, and gray lime-stone, and various kinds of flints ; and the regularly crystalized basaltes may also be found along the shore, endeavouring to escape, as it were, into the sea: also zeolite and gypsum ; of this latter three distinct species are discoverable in many places; the gypsum occurs ‘almost always on the sea-shore. Amongst the various wood fossils found on the shore, the most curious is the hazel-nut; this is met with beneath a bed of peat, accompanied by great bodies of timber, elder, sallow,

    Internet Archive toursinirelandor00wrig, Chapter 113

34. Hugh, Earl of Ulster, founds Carrick-Fergus in 1230

    Carrickfergus · townland · Antrim · 1230

    Hugh, Earl of Ulster, in the year 1230 first founded the town of Carrick-Fergus, from which period it grew into importance and continued to be the principal stronghold of the English in the North of Ireland.

    Read the passage

    paid a considerable fine, they were pardoned by King John. Hugh, Earl of Ulster, in the year 1230, first founded this town, from which period it grew into importance, and continued to be the principal strong hold of the English in the North of Ireland. The De Lacys continued in uninterrupted possession of this. country until about the year 1312, when they were expelled by John Birmingham: a few years afterwards, by the assistance of the Scots, they were enabled to return, and conduct the invasion of Ireland by Lord Edward Bruce. In the year 1316, Robert Bruce landed at Carrick- Fergus, and disembarked a considerable body of troops here, to whom the town and castle ultimately surrendered, after having been reduced to the most dreadful extremities. Upon this occasion the besieged are said to have eaten eight Scotchmen, prisoners in the castle.

    The town of Carrick-Fergus was repeatedly besieged by the Scots, and as frequently recovered by the Irish and English, and the varied history of its defences will be found in the highest degree interesting ;* but the nature of this work does not admit of a minute detail of the historic events of each town through which the tourist passes; though not to notice, however slightly, so ancient an establishment as the town and castle of Carrick-Fergus, would be unpardonable. Some few historic facts are all that shall be added, and those of the deepest interest alone. It was here, then, that Sir Henry Sidney, the Lord Deputy, landed in 1568, when he received the submission of Turlogh Lynogh O’Neil, the celebrated Irish chieftain. The 12th day of August,

    Internet Archive toursinirelandor00wrig, Chapter 110

35. Hume of Humewood's watch made of Wicklow gold

    Humewood · townland · Wicklow

    The late Mr. Hume of Humewood, MP for county Wicklow, possessed a watch made from native Wicklow gold, evidence of the local belief that gold had been found here for centuries.

    Read the passage

    It is generally believed in the adjacent country, that native gold was found here centuries ago. The late Mr. Hume of Humewood, representative in parliament for the county of Wicklow, was possessed of a watch made of this gold; and it is an acknowledged fact, that the ancient Irish wore ornaments of gold before this precious metal had been found on the European continent. From the summit of Croghan, which is 2,064 feet above the low water mark, there is an extensive but not very interesting prospect. The next large hill, called Croghan Moira, is also of considerable elevation, and is supposed to contain alluvial gold in its rivulets.

    Let us now congratulate the tourist upon his arrival at wooden-bridge inn, and recommend him without loss of time to ascend a little eminence behind the house, called Knock-na-Moel: from this trifling elevation, there is a delightful prospect of the course of the Ovoca, down the vale of Arklow, with its richly-wooded banks, comprising the demesnes of Bally Arthur, Shelton, and Kilcarra.

    Internet Archive toursinirelandor00wrig, Chapter 79

36. Irish Cry lamentation custom at Muckross Abbey

    Muckross Abbey · ecclesiastical site · Kerry

    The section describes the ancient Irish funeral lamentation custom, the 'Irish Cry', traced to heathen origin and linguistically linked to Hebrew, Greek and Latin mourning terms, practiced frequently at Muckross Abbey burials. Keeners (Keenaghers) beat their breasts and tear their hair in a custom paralleling ancient Roman funeral rites.

    Read the passage

    The analogy between the Roman and Irish funeral ceremony, before the government of the Decemviri, “was amazingly striking. The Keenaghers or Keeners (for so the Prefice mulieres are called by the Irish), are in the habit of beating their breasts, tearing their hair, and wringing their hands. Now we find the following law relative to Roman funerals, amongst those of the twelve tables: “ Mulier ne faciem carpito”—‘ Mulieres genas ne radunto.” The antiquity of this custom is thus esta~

    Internet Archive toursinirelandor00wrig, Chapter 29

37. Obelisk near Cabinteely built for poor relief employment

    Cabinteely · townland · Dublin · 1740

    A majestic 100-foot obelisk was erected at the sole expense of Sir Pigot Piers in 1740 specifically to give employment to the poor.

    Read the passage

    * Ataconsiderable distance to the right, in the centre of a thickly inhabited and richly wooded country, a majestic obelisk is seen, raising its tapering summit to the height of 100 feet. This was erected at the sole expense of the charitable and humane Sir Pigot Piers, bart. in 1740, in ‘order to give employment to the poor.

    + There is a house at the village of Chapel-Izod, about one mile from Dublin, which itis said was occupied by king James in the moming, and by king William in the evening, of the same day.

    Internet Archive toursinirelandor00wrig, Chapter 43

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere close to Cabinteely, a 100-foot obelisk was put up in 1740 at the sole expense of Sir Pigot Piers, built to give employment to the poor.

38. Phantom chieftain seen on Lough Ouler

    near Lough Ouler · lake or lakes · Wicklow

    Upon Lough Ouler, at stated periods, a lordly chieftain and his lady were said to appear, riding in their chariot enveloped in a burning cloud, part of the preternatural lore surrounding the loughs near Glendalough.

    Read the passage

    Beyond the reach of satisfactory authority Glendalough appears to have been the seat of learning, of religion, or rather of superstition, for, in the transition from Pagan to Christian worship, it could not be expected that all the idolatrous practices would be instantaneously abandoned ; the very nature and character of the scene seemed to invite the artful priest to practise upon the credulity of the innocent inhabitants of this sequestered spot; the lake was represented as being infested with serpents, the mountains with wolves; and the loughs in the vicinity exhibited preternatural appearances; upon Lough Ouler were seen, at stated periods, a lordly chieftain and his lady bright, riding in their chariot, enveloped in a burn< ing cloud.*

    This state of mind was peculiarly susceptible of im< pressions, and the sagacious recluse}was not neglectful of this advantage.

    Internet Archive toursinirelandor00wrig, Chapter 84

39. Ralph Howard attainted and estates seized at Shelton

    Shelton Abbey · townland · Wicklow · 1667

    In 1667 Ralph Howard, holder of the medical professorship at Dublin University, withdrew to England during the war and was attainted by King James II's parliament; his estates including Shelton were sequestered and given to Mr. Hacket.

    Read the passage

    The ancient family of Howard have been many years resident at Shelton, but are originally of English extraction. In the year 1667, Ralph Howard, Esq. M.D. who held the medical professorship in the University of Dublin, having, upon the breaking out of the war, with-

    G

    Internet Archive toursinirelandor00wrig, Chapter 78

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere around here at Shelton, the Howard family were long resident, though originally from England. In 1667, Ralph Howard, who held the medical professorship at Dublin University, withdrew to England when war broke out. He was attainted by King James II's parliament, and his estates here were sequestered and given to Mr. Hacket.

40. Ross Castle built by the O'Donoghoe-Ross family

    Ross Island · townland · Kerry · 1690

    Ross Castle, now a ruin standing on a rock with embattled parapets and corner flankers, was built by the O'Donoghoe-Ross family, and offers a panoramic view of Mangerton, Turk, and Glenda from its battlements. A garrison was kept there in 1690 during the Williamite wars.

    Read the passage

    The castle, which was built by the family of O’Donoghoe-Ross,* is now an important ruin, standing upon a rock: it consists of a lofty, square building, with embattled parapets, formerly enclosed by a curtain wall, having round flankers at each corner, the ruins of which are yet visible. The interior possesses some extremelywell-proportioned apartments, and from the battlements may be had a most extensive panoramic view of Mangerton, Turk, Glenda, and all the surrounding scenery. A small building has been erected against one of the side walls of the castle, for the accommodation of an officer and company of men, which does not harmonize very well with the general character of the scene, and is particularly hurtful to the eye in looking from Inisfallen towards Mangerton. There is a governor also on the establishment of Ross Castle; and a garrison was kept here in 1690, in the wars between William ‘and James. (See Articles of Limerick.)

    The Island of Ross is of considerable extent, and though the woods were cut down in 1803, they have sprung up again sufficiently high to upbraid their destroyer and delight the admirer of the beauties of Nature. On Ross Island are to be found great varieties of trees and plants, oaks, yews, &c. Amongst the plants are the spleen-

    Internet Archive toursinirelandor00wrig, Chapter 8

41. St Columba founds church on Raghery, 546 AD

    near Rathlin Island · island or archipelago · Antrim · 546

    St Columba, founder of the Abbey of Derry, founded a church on Raghery Island in AD 546 and placed Colman, the deacon, son of Roi, over it.

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    In the beginning of the fifth century, “ Saint Comgall ‘landed on this island, with an intent to erect a cell ; but ‘he was instantly seized by a band of thirty military “men, who, holding his hands, drove him out of the « Island.” We are not informed by whose orders thisholy man was so inhospitably received and so rudely treated ; but St. Columba, the founder of the Abbey of Derry, A. D. 546, succeeded: he founded a church here, and placed over it Colman, the deacon, the son of Roi- Dr. Lannigan attributes the foundation of this chapel to Segenius, Abbot of Hy, in the year 653. In the year 795, this island was invaded or infested by the Scandinavian free-booters, vulgarly called Danes, who pillaged the church, and burned and destroyed what they could not re« move ; and in 973, these ruthless despoilers crowned with martyrdom St. Feradach, the holy abbot of this church. In 1551, it was invaded by the English, who were repulsed with the loss of one vessel ;+ and in 1558, the Scots took possession of Raghery, but were soon after expelled, with dreadful slaughter, by the Lord Deputy, Sussex, who seized upon it for the English Crown.

    There is a tradition of a dreadful massacre having been perpetrated here some years back by the Highland clan of

    Internet Archive toursinirelandor00wrig, Chapter 136

42. The Gray Man's Path fissure at Fair Head

    near Benmore or Fair Head · promontory · Antrim

    A fissure in the face of the Fair Head precipice, called Fhir Leith or the Gray Man's Path, formerly had a natural gate formed by a fallen greenstone joint, through which bold visitors could descend, but this natural architrave has since fallen and choked the passage.

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    vulsive ruin, covered by the waters beneath the promontory. Upon this region of desolation, on the shore, enormous debris, either assuming the character of rude columnization, or in a perfectly shapeless mass, whose weight is calculated at from four to five thousand tons, are thrown together in all the savage sublimity of which we can conceive the wildest scenes in nature capable. The scene just now described, is discovered below the feet of the traveller, as he cautiously paces along the brink of the precipice. The surface upon which he treads, upon examination, will be found to consist of a regular pavement, formed of the extremities of enormous prismatic masses, composing the precipice, perfectly denuded and completely level. These prisms vary in form ; some are quadrilateral, and appear to be composed of a congeries of smaller prisms, aggregated in such a way, as to suggest very obviously the clustered assemblage of shafts, which occur in the formation of a gothic column. In tracing the summit of this bold head, several natural curiosities are pointed out; the first, to the west, is a fissure in the face of the precipice, called Fhir Leith, or the Gray Man’s Path: the entrance to the pass, at the top, is extremely narrow ; and formerly, a joint of green-= stone, which had fallen across it, formed a sort of natural gate, through which the bold inquirer descended ; entering, next, a gradually expanding passage, which leads to the chaotic heaps, at the base of thegreat colonnade. Thenatural architrave has lately fallen down, and quite choked up the passage. There are one or two similar chasms along the summit, which have frequently proved fatal to the cattle left pasturing upon the head-land. There are several places along the brink of the precipice, where the guide directs

    7. COLLIERIES,

    Internet Archive toursinirelandor00wrig, Chapter 132

43. The miraculous cross of Glendalough Cathedral cemetery

    Glendalough · electoral division · Wicklow

    A standing cross eleven feet high, cut from a single block of granite, stands in the cemetery of the Cathedral and is credited with miraculous powers if a visitor can embrace it fully.

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    Several remnants of crosses lie scattered up and down, the most remarkable of which is one standing in the cemetery of the Cathedral, eleven feet in height, and formed of one solid block of granite. Certain miraculous powers are attributed to this; but it is first necessary that the votary should completely embrace the stone, making his hands meet at the opposite side. The stranger naturally walks up to the front of the cross, and throwing his arms about the stone, attempts to unite his hands; this he will soon find impracticable, from the great breadth of the flat front ; but upon changing his situation, and standing close up to the narrow side of the stone, the object will be easily accomplished.

    To the west of the Cathedral stood our Lady’s Church : this could not have been a very extensive structure originally, but, from the traces still discoverable, it appears to have been built with more architectural taste and knowledge than the others. The door-way must have been admirably executed: in the lintel was wrought a cruciformed ornament, not unlike the flyer of a stamping-press. The walls, as high up as the top of the door-way, are of hewn stone of a large size, and the remainder of mountain rag-stone, admirably cemented. The eastern window

    Internet Archive toursinirelandor00wrig, Chapter 87

44. The Round Tower of Glendalough

    Glendalough · electoral division · Wicklow

    The perfect round tower at Glendalough stands 110 feet high, one of sixty-two such towers discovered in Ireland, with uncertain original purpose debated among antiquarians.

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    There is one monument of antiquity, of more remote date, most probably, than the churches themselves, not yet noticed, although the visiter never loses sight of it during his peregrination in the extensive vale of Glendalough, that is, the Round Tower. The uses of these extras ordinary buildings are not yet fully ascertained ; by the Irish peasantry they are called Cloch-Theach, or the Belfry ; by General Vallancey, Fire Towers ; and by an infinite number of antiquarians, Turres Ecclesiastice, or anchorite towers, either for the study of religious writings, and indulgence in pious reflections, or for the purposes of penitence and prayer, like the stylite pillars. There are sixty-two round towers at present discovered in Ireland, and there were certainly many more, which have totally fallen to decay ; they were generally divided into stories, as the projecting ledge on which the floor rested sufficiently demonstrates. For a more minute account of these towers the reader is referred to the ‘ Guide to the Lakes of Killarney.” The perfect tower at Glendalough is 110 feet in height; the ruins of the other are so imperfect as to frustrate all conjecture as to its probable dimensions. Two towers stood also at Roscrea, Farbane, Clonmacnoise, and other places, but the solitary tower is more general.

    After a complete inspection of the churches and their appendages, a natural curiosity of more than usual interest remains to be visited; this is St, Kevin’s Bed. This wonder-working couch is a small cave, capable of containing three persons at most, in the front of a rock, hanging perpendicularly over the lake; the approach is by a narrow path along the steep side of the mountain,

    Internet Archive toursinirelandor00wrig, Chapter 89

45. The terrifying defile of the Gap of Dunloe

    near Gap of Dunloe · pass · Kerry

    The Gap of Dunloe, a narrow mountain defile between the Holly Mountain and Bull Mountain, is described as so awe-inspiring that travellers have been paralysed with terror, fearing the overhanging crags might collapse upon them.

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    either side ascend in steep, perpendicular, precipitous crags ; masses of enormous bulk lie tossed about in all the terrific sublimity of chaos, and instances have been known of persons, who, when they have arrived at this spot, were so paralysed with terror, that no earthly inducement could persuade them to advance, dreading that the mountain might fall and overwhelm them. Two small bridges are thrown across the stream which runs through the defile, in the narrowest parts of the channel ; yet, from the simplicity of their structure, these do not interrupt the character of the scenery. In one particular part of the pass, the road runs along the margin of a black pool, and is so unprotected, as to inspire the equestrian traveller with fears, that, should his horse trip, he might be precipitated into the lake. But a scene of this description defies the address of the most expert tourist, and the pencil of the ablest master: it must be seen to be understood. ‘Those who have visited the passes of Borrowdale, in Cumberland, may form a faint idea of the chilling, dreary grandeur of Dunloe; but the pass of Llanberris, in North Wales, bears a still greater resemblance, and he who has seen the Gap of Dunloe, will not be over-awed by the sublimity of Llanberris, nor. will the deep-rooted image of Dunloe be eradicated by the combined beauty and grandeur of Borrowdale.

    From the entrance of the Gap to the farther end, opening into the vale of Comme Duff, thence to Gheramine, the seat of Lord Brandon, is about four miles; the road from the outlet of the gap to his Lordship’s cottage, is in arude, unfinished state, but improvements are daily making. Here a long-extended valley is opened to the view ; at the western extremity of which is a very considerable lough, called the Red Trout Lake. Nearly

    Internet Archive toursinirelandor00wrig, Chapter 38

46. Tumuli discovered on Raghery Island reveal Bronze Age weapons

    near Rathlin Island · island or archipelago · Antrim

    Several tumuli in the centre of Raghery Island were opened, revealing brazen swords, spears and other implements of war. A large fibula found in one was deposited in the museum of Trinity College, Dublin, and a stone coffin with a skeleton and a blood-like residuum was also found.

    Read the passage

    The form of Raghery Island is»that of a right angle, whose sides or legs are Kenramer and Ushet points: on the external vertex of the tight angle ‘stands Bruce’s Castle, and in the internal vertical is Church Bay. In the early ages of our history, the proximity of Scotland and Ireland invited mutual predatory expeditions, to which it certainly appears the Scotch were more addicted than the Irish : in these occasional petit and partial invasions, the Island of Raghery was found very useful, both as a depot and a place of retreat. Inca small plain, in the centre of the island, several tumuli ‘were recently discovered ; and upon opening’ them, they were found to contain various implements of war, brazen swords, spears, &c. A large fibula, found in ‘one of these, is now deposited in the museum of Trinity College, Dublin. A stone coffin was also found, inclosing a human skeleton, beside which stood an earthen vessel, in which a residuum was deposited which appeared to be of blood. Collections of bones were found in several of the others.

    During the civil wars which devastated Scotland, between Robert Bruce and Baliol, the former fled to Raghery for shelter; and fortifying ‘himself im the castle which now bears his surname, made a bold and successful resistance to his enemies. The short time which Bruce remained upon the island may be very fairly assigned as a reason for his not having been the founder or builder of the castle ; besides, in all probability, it was the existence of this strong castle on Raghery Island which induced the exiled king to fly thither for shelter. This is the more insisted upon, as the date of the erection of this building

    Internet Archive toursinirelandor00wrig, Chapter 136

47. Killiney obelisk erected for poor relief employment, 1741

    Killiney · townland · Dublin · 1741

    An obelisk stands on the summit of the centre Killiney hill, 475 feet above the water, erected by Colonel Mapas in 1741 for the same charitable purpose of providing employment for the poor as Sir Pigot Piers's pillar at Stillorgan.

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    From Dalkey Common, the road now lies up Killiney Hill towards the telegraph: this hill was once higher, and formed a much greater mass, but has been cut down and carried away to build the pier at Kingstown. Passing by Loftus Hall, you reach the gate of the deer park, and about twenty yards beyond this, Bray Head, Killiney Bay, and the Valley of Bray, are all suddenly unfolded to your view. This sublime scene, unequalled by any thing in Wicklow, and unrivalled by any I know of elsewhere, with the exception probably of that from Baron Hill, in the Isle of Anglesea, is ample compensation indeed for the digression of the tourist; and when his Majesty visited the county of Wicklow, in 1821, he was conducted hither, on his return, by his noble host, Lord Viscount Powerscourt. There are three hills in the Killiney range, all rising very abruptly from the sea ; upon the summit of the centre one, at a height of 475 feet from the water, stands an obelisk, erected by Colonel Mapas, in 1741, for the same excellent purpose which induced Sir Pigot Piers to build the more beautiful pillar at Stillorgan, the year preceding : from this obelisk, the panoramic view almost exceeds credibility, so that the experience of the visiter is the only testimony he would rely on, and which we most anxiously recommend him to adopt. From this are seen the Bays of Dublin and Killiney, an amphitheatre of mountains extending from Bray Head, in the south, to the extremity of the Dublin chain, the richly cultivated country around the metropolis, the

    6 KILLINEY BAY.

    Internet Archive toursinirelandor00wrig, Chapter 45

    As the companion tells it

    Close to Killiney, there are three hills rising abruptly from the sea, and on the summit of the centre one, 475 feet above the water, stands an obelisk. Colonel Mapas erected it in 1741 for the same excellent purpose that led Sir Pigot Piers to build the pillar at Stillorgan the year before: providing employment for the poor. The hill itself was once higher and formed a greater mass, but it was cut down and carried away to build the pier at Kingstown. Passing by Loftus Hall and the gate of the deer park, the view opens suddenly: Bray Head, Killiney Bay, and the Valley of Bray all unfold at once. The writer calls this scene sublime, unequalled by anything in Wicklow, and unrivalled by anything he knows of elsewhere, with the possible exception of the view from Baron Hill in the Isle of Anglesea. When his Majesty visited the county of Wicklow in 1821, he was conducted here on his return by Lord Viscount Powerscourt. From the obelisk itself, the panoramic view almost exceeds credibility. You can see the Bays of Dublin and Killiney, an amphitheatre of mountains extending from Bray Head in the south to the extremity of the Dublin chain, and the richly cultivated country around the metropolis.

48. Antrim burned by Munroe in 1649

    near Antrim · town · Antrim · 1649

    In 1649 the town of Antrim was burned by the puritan Munroe, one of several historical episodes noted for the town.

    Read the passage

    Water’, and is very conveniently situated for the trade of Lough Neagh. There was a custom-house once at this place, the duties of which are now performed at Belfast ; and the privilege of returning two members to parliament has been discontinued since the union of 1800. Here stood an ancient abbey, founded by Durtract, a disciple of St. Patrick, the records of which are very imperfect. In 1649 the town was burned by the puritan Munroe, and in 1798 there was a dreadful engagement between a body of 6,000 rebels and the King’s troops, in which the former were defeated with great slaughter. There is a tolerable linen market established here, and it is also a fair, and post town. The population, which does not appear to have increased much within the last ten years, amounts to about 2,500. There is a very neat church, adorned with a spire; also two Presbyterian meeting houses, and one Roman Catholic chapel.

    The road from Antrim to Belfast* passes through a rich and highly improved country, although the character of the scenery is not very picturesque. Here are several bleach-greens attached to the neat, and sometimes splendid, mansions of the proprietors, who are here totally divested of that mistaken pride which the Irish have been remarked to possess, of disowning their connexion with the source and means of their wealth and respectability. This is not the character of their prudent neighbours of Britain ; and the wealth, independence, and happiness of Ulster, is a palpable evidence that a dignified and honourable commercial reputation is an attendant upon national happiness, and one of the first and greatest occasions of national self-gratulation.

    Internet Archive toursinirelandor00wrig, Chapter 162

49. Belfast Bridge weakened by Schomberg's cannon

    near Belfast · city · Antrim · 1692

    In spring 1692, seven arches of the bridge fell in after being weakened by Duke Schomberg's heavy cannon crossing it and a ship driving against it. The arches were shortly after repaired.

    Read the passage

    after which, in the spring of 1692, seven of the arches fell in, the bridge having been weakened by the Duke Schomberg’s drawing his heavy cannon over it, while the work was yet fresh, and also by a ship driving against it. These were shortly after repaired, and have continued in tolerable preservation to the present time.

    The preceding observations probably comprise the most important features in the ancient history of this populous town, and as much as the author would be’ justified in introducing. It only remains, therefore, to say a few words upon its present state, and then conduct the tourist along the beautiful shores of Belfast Lough, to the ancient corporate town of Carrick-Fergus.

    Internet Archive toursinirelandor00wrig, Chapter 108

50. Castle built from Abbey ruins at Coleraine, 1213

    near Coleraine · town · Derry · 1213

    In 1213 Thomas M'Uchtry and the Gauls of Ulster erected a castle at Coleraine, destroying the pavement and most of the Abbey except the church to obtain materials.

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    About the year 540, St. Carbreus, a disciple of) St. Finian of Clonard, was made first Bishop of Coleraine. To him succeeded St. Eonall, who was Bishop in the time of St. Columb, the founder of the Abbey of Derry. In 930, Ardmedius, Abbot of Coleraine, was. cruelly murdered by the Danes; and, in 1171, Manus M‘Dunlave plundered this church and several others. In 1213, Thomas M‘Uchtry and the Gauls of Ulster, erected a castle here, for which purpose they raised all the pavement, ard destroyed every part of the Abbey, the church only excepted.

    To the west of the town stood a monastery, called the Monastery of the Bann, founded in the fifth century, by the noble family of O’Cahans, or by the M‘Evelins. In 1244, it was dedicated to the Virgin Mary ; and, in 1484, was reformed by the Dominican order. In 1560, Sir Robert Savage, of Ulster, Knt. an excellent soldier, was buried here. And in 1644, this. monastery was

    Internet Archive toursinirelandor00wrig, Chapter 157

51. City of Glendalough founded by St Mochuorog

    Glendalough · electoral division · Wicklow

    St Mochuorog, a Briton, founded a cell on the east side of Glendalough after hearing of St Kevin's fame; a city and seminary sprang up there, sending forth saints and scholars whose learning spread throughout the western world.

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    At the distance of about aquarter of a mile are the ruins of the once famous city of Glendalough. The origin of this city, and its celebrity as a seat of learning, are attributed to Saint Mochuorog or Mocorog, a Briton, who hearing of the fame of St. Kevin, and the miracles wrought by him, left his native country, and fixed his residence in a cell on the east side of Glendalough: here a city soon sprang up, and a seminary was founded, from which: many saints and exemplary men were sent forth, whose sanctity and learning diffused around the western world that universal light of letters and religion, which, in the earlier ages, shone with so much brightness throughout this remote and at that period tranquil isle, and was almost exclusively confined to it. A little paved space of a quadrangular form, now called the market place, indicates the site of the ancient city; from this a paved road led to Hollywood, on the borders of the county Kildare, through

    108 GLENDALOUGH.

    Internet Archive toursinirelandor00wrig, Chapter 86

52. Destruction of Castle Lough fortress by Parliament's army

    Castle Lough · lake or lakes · Clare

    Castle Lough demesne formerly had a small fortress on a rock, which surrendered to Colonel Hieromé Sankey and was totally demolished by the Parliament's army under Ludlow, leaving scarcely a trace.

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    Leavine the village of Killarney to the north, and directing our course towards Mangerton, several gentlemen’s seats are passed: Woodlawn Cottage, on the river Flesk ; Cahernane, the seat of R. T. Herbert, esq. ; Lord Headly’s Lodge, on the opposite side of the road ; and Castle Lough demesne, the seat of Dr. Lawler. The demesne of Cahernane is extensive and interesting, although the grounds are perfectly flat, and Castle Lough formerly boasted a strong but small fortress, built upon arock, which, having surrendered to Colonel Hieromé Sankey, was so totally demolished by the Parliament’s army, under Ludlow,* that scarcely a trace of it can now be discovered. A broad and level road, over-shaded by full-grown limes, leads from Flesk bridge to the village of Cloghereen, a distance of about two miles from Killarney. Here is the entrance to the beautiful and romantic demesne of Mucruss.

    On entering the village, a small mean gate-way on the tight admits to Mucruss grounds ; just within the gate is an old building, formerly occupied by the miners employed on the peninsula. Crossing a little stream, and stretching a short distance across a beautifully sloping and verdant lawn, the steeple of t Irrelagh, or Mucruss Abbey, rears its venerable head amongst the lofty Limes and Ashes.

    Internet Archive toursinirelandor00wrig, Chapter 27

53. Dunseverick Castle and O'Cahan's country

    near Dunseverick · population centre · Antrim · 1570

    Dunseverick Castle, an ancient fortress on an insulated rock, was given to Sorley-Boy about 1570, after which it became the residence of O'Cahan, an Irish chief from the banks of the Bann, who with Sorley-Boy and Bryan Carrough opposed the deputy Sir John Perrot.

    Read the passage

    From Ballintoy to Bushmills there is no object of at< tention or interest to detain the traveller, with the exception probably of Dunseverick Castle, an ancient fortress situated on an insulated rock, which is mouldering away with such rapidity, that the work of art in this case appears a more durable structure than that of nature. There is very little of the military or ecclesiastical history of this county yet collected. The wretched epitome of its monastic history, contained in Archdall, is scarcely sufficient for the purposes of a catalogue; and even the learned Dr. Lannigan’s ecclesiastical history, a yet more recent work, says but little on the same subject. Of the castles along the eastern and northern coasts, very little information can now be collected ; and of this ruin we find only one sentence in Camden, viz. that it was given to Sorley-Boy, about the year 15703; after which time it became the residence of O’Cahan, an Irish chief from the banks of the river Bann, from whom the county of Coleraine was denominated O’Cahan’s country; he was the friend and ally of Sorley-Boy, who, together with Bryan Carrough, united their forces with his to oppose the deputy, Sir John Perrot.

    The tourist may now proceed without delay to Bushmills, about one mile from the Causeway, where there is a comfortable little inn ; this is to be considered the Causeway inn, being the nearest place of rest or refreshment. From Bushmills, then, the tourist is supposed to make an excursion to the Causeway, and along the coast in an eastern direction by Plaiskin. Here, then, we shall commence our description of the great object of inquiry, the Causeway itself; and for this place the various theories

    Internet Archive toursinirelandor00wrig, Chapter 140

54. Founding of the Abbey of Bona-Margy in 1509

    Bonamargy · townland · Antrim · 1509

    The Abbey of Bona-Margy was founded in 1509 by Charles M'Donnell for Franciscan Friars of the third order, one of the latest monastic edifices erected in Ireland.

    Read the passage

    The Abbey of Bona-Margy was founded in the year 1509 by Charles M‘Donnell, for Franciscan Friars of the third order, and is one of the latest monastic edifices erected in Ireland. In 1595, AMneas Voighragh, who was slain by O’Neil, at the battle of Glenshiesk, was interred here. And here also rest the ashes of the famous James M‘Sorley, who defeated the last of the M‘Quillans.

    The chapel measures about one hundred feet in length, by thirty-four in breadth, and is now unroofed. The eastern end is ornamented by some tolerably executed bas reliefs, and the eastern window was of considerable dimensions, and highly enriched with sculpture. On the south side is a tomb, bearing. this inscription, in Roman capitals :—

    Internet Archive toursinirelandor00wrig, Chapter 128

55. Highlanders flee via Knocklayde and Ballycastle to Rathlin Island

    near Rathlin Island · island or archipelago · Antrim

    Warned of a plot to kill them by night, the Highlanders fled overnight from the Rout first to Knocklayde, then to Ballycastle, and in trying to escape to Scotland were driven onto the Island of Raghery (Rathlin).

    Read the passage

    that has the victory, let him take milk, and all to himself,” The galloglogh was soon put to his last breath, after which the Highlander came in and dined heartily. M‘Quillan’s gallogloghs assembled to demand satisfac« tion, and, in a council which was held, where the con< duct of the Scots was debated, their great and dangerous power, and the disgrace arising from the seduction of M‘Quillan’s daughter, it was agreed, that each galloglogh should kill his comrade Highlander by night, and their lord and master with them ; but Colonel M‘Donald’s wife discovered the plot, and told it to her husband. So the Highlanders fled in the night time, first to Knocklade, thence to Bally-castle, and in attempting to escape to Scotland, were driven into the Island of Raghery.

    Coll and M‘Quillan were restored to friendship, and lived:happily together ; but, upon the death of M‘Quillan, his nephew, who lived at Ballylough, set up a claim to the property of Dunluce, and the wars which ensued between the M‘Donalds and M‘Quillans continued for nearly half a century, till the English power became so superior in Ireland, that both parties appealed to James the First, who had just then ascended the throne. James had a predilection for his Scotch countryman, the M‘Donald, to whom he made over by patent four great baronies, including, along with other lands, all poor M‘Quillan’s possessions. However, to retain some appearance of justice, he gave to M‘Quillan* a grant of the

    Internet Archive toursinirelandor00wrig, Chapter 154

56. Kilcrea Abbey after the dissolution and 1641 wars

    Kilcrea · townland · Cork · 1604–1641

    After the dissolution of religious houses the lands of Kilcrea Abbey were granted to Lord Muskerry, but after the wars of 1641 Cromwell gave them to Lord Broghill. The castle and abbey were damaged in these wars but later repaired by Captain Wm. Bayley, with Ware noting Catholics had repaired the abbey in 1604.

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    At the dissolution of religious houses in Ireland, the lands of this abbey were granted to Lord Muskery, but, after the wars of 1641, Oliver Cromwell bestowed them upon the Lord Broghil, In these wars the castle and abbey were much injured, but were afterwards repaired by Captain Wm. Bayley. Ware says, the Roman Catholics repaired the abbey in 1604.

    Near the junction of the Bride and Lee stand the Church and Village of Ovens.* Here is an extraordinary cave, beneath a limestone arch; in some places it is upwards of twenty feet high, in others, not more than six; there are numerous diverging corridors within about twenty yards from the entrance, some of them returning back into the cave, and others continuing to a length as yet unascertained. Strangers should be extremely cautious of venturing into this Cretan labyrinth, without such a clue as Ariadne gave to Theseus, for the guides are not at all acquainted with the intricacies of this subterranean wonder. The sides and roof are covered with a stalactical matter, or gypsum, which is a most efficacious cement. Persons are said to have proceeded for a quarter of a mile, or upwards, into this grotto in safety, and the peasantry about the village assert, that it reaches as far as Gill-Abbey, near Cork.

    Internet Archive toursinirelandor00wrig, Chapter 3

57. Knock Lade cairn and legend of three Danish princesses

    near Knocklayd · mountain or mountain range · Antrim

    On the summit of Knock Lade is a large cairn called Cairn-an-Truagh, the Hillock of the Three, with a tradition that three Danish princesses, sisters, were buried there after wanderings and misfortunes.

    Read the passage

    On the highest point is a large heap of stones, called in the Gelic tongue, Cairn-an-Truagh, 7. e. the Hillock of the Three: the existing tradition concerning this cairn, states, that three Danish princesses, sisters, after various misfortunes and wanderings, were buried here.* In Seward’s Topography of Ireland, there is an accurate description of an eruption, said to have occurred on this mountain in 1788, by which many lives were lost, and the village of Ballyowen destroyed: Seward does not give his authority for the account, but it can be traced to the Dublin Chronicle for June 7th, 1788, where an extract from a letter, supposed to have been written in Ballycastle, minutely specifies the circumstances attendant on the volcanic eruption. The tourist may rest assured, however, that the whole narration is fabulous ; for, in the first instance, Dr. Hamilton published a second edition of his Letters in 1790, in which there is.not the least notice of such an event; and the writer of this volume made personal inquiry from the neighbouring gentry in 1823, who remember that such a fable was once circulated.t The coal-beds of Fair Head are supposed to extend to the base of this mountain ; and if a flame had burst out of the earth here at any time, it would not be likely to

    * Parochial Survey of Ramoan.

    Internet Archive toursinirelandor00wrig, Chapter 130

58. Lord Rossmore's agricultural improvement of Newtown Mount Kennedy

    Newtown Mount Kennedy · town · Wicklow · 1770–1822

    About fifty years before writing, the land around Newtown Mount Kennedy was totally wild and barren until General Cuningham, later Lord Rossmore, purchased it and reclaimed the soil using marl and limestone gravel, extending his demesne and spending 64,000 pounds on improvements.

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    the demesne is extensive, highly improved, and beautifully situated; this whole tract of land, about fifty years ago, was totally wild and barren; about this period it was purchased by General Cuningham, afterwards Lord Rossmore, who then retired from public life. This demesne, as well as that of Dunran, were planted by his lordship, and the soil of the vallies and low lands hitherto useless, reclaimed by that energetic and sagacious nobleman, principally by the application of marl and limestone gravel. So great was this excellent man’s taste and ability for agricultural improvement, that, beginning from fifty acres, he extended his demesne and farms from Newtown Mount Kennedy to the southern extremity of Dunran, nor ceased until he had expended: 64,000/. in improvements.

    A very great natural curiosity, formerly a natural beauty also, was to be seen in the lawn of his lordship’s demesne at Newtown Mount Kennedy, a large arbutus tree, thirteen feet six inches in circumference, and about eighteen feet in height ; this curious and beautiful object, quite superior even to any of the same species at Killarney, was unfortunately blown down, and split into two parts; these arms have been judiciously laid down, so as to take new root, and from their present dimensions, the enormous size of the tree, when perfect, may be readily perceived.

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    As the companion tells it

    As you come through Newtown Mount Kennedy in Wicklow, the land around the town is the story of one man's work. About fifty years before the account was written, this whole tract was totally wild and barren. Then General Cuningham, afterwards Lord Rossmore, purchased it and retired from public life to devote himself to it. He planted the demesne here and at Dunran, and reclaimed the useless valley and lowland soil chiefly by applying marl and limestone gravel. Beginning from 50 acres, he extended his demesne and farms from Newtown Mount Kennedy to the southern extremity of Dunran, and spent 64,000 pounds on improvements. A large arbutus tree once stood in the lawn of his demesne here, 13 feet 6 inches in circumference and about 18 feet tall, quite superior to any of the same species at Killarney. It was blown down and split into two parts, but the arms were laid down to take new root, and from their present dimensions you can still perceive the enormous size of the tree when it was whole.

59. Origin of the name Carrick-Fergus

    Carrickfergus · townland · Antrim

    The name Carrick-Fergus is supposed to be compounded of Carigor (Crag, a rock) and Fergus, the name of a Scotch prince said to have been wrecked near the place 300 years before Christ.

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    Tue town of Carrick-Fergus was formerly a place: of much importance in the ancient kingdom of Dalradia, and from its noble harbour became inviting to the navigator, and exposed to the pirate. The town is situated on the very shore of the bay, and the castle stands upon a natural foundation ofa basaltic structure, and of a peninsular form. The name “ Carrick Fergus’”* is supposed to be compounded of Carigor Crag, a rock, and Fergus, the name of a Scotch prince, said to have been wrecked near this place, 300 years before Christ. This part of Ireland, immediately subsequently to the English invasion, was granted to John De Courcy, provided he subdued, civilized, and finally reduced it under the English yoke. This De Courcy soon accomplished, and at the same time the extirpation of many ancient Irish chiefs, the O’Donnells, O’Loughlins, &c.

    The De Courcys and De Lacys next turmed their arms against each other, and after the murder o! one of the former, the De Lacys were compelled to escape to France, where they remained a short time, when, having

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60. Rebels shelter in the Wicklow mountains after 1798

    Glendalough · electoral division · Wicklow · 1798

    After the 1798 rebellion, a number of outlaws remained concealed in the fastnesses of the Wicklow mountains, with government eventually choosing to capitulate rather than continue pursuing them.

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    at every step of which the slightest false trip would precipitate the pedestrian into the lake below; certainly the guide endeavours to infuse an additional degree of confidence into his followers, by assuring them, that since the fate of the fair Cathleen, at which period St. Kevin prayed that none might ever find a watery grave in that lake, no mortal has ever perished there. There is one place in particular where all the eloquence of the guide is sure to be exerted to encourage the party, and where it frequently proves unsuccessful, that is, the ledge of rock called The Lady’s Leap. After passing this rubicon, the’ landing place immediately above the cave is soon reached, without difficulty ; but the visiter must descend with caution, his face being turned to the rock down which he climbs, while the guide directs him which way he is to turn, and where to plant his foot, until at last he reaches the mouth of the sainted bed. The bed is about thirty yards from the surface of the water, and the front of the rock for the whole of the height or depth, perfectly perpendicular. Those who are not disposed to confide in the efficacy of St. Kevin’s prayers, for the safety of his posthumous visiters, can see the cave distinctly from the opposite side of the lake; and if there | should be any persons entering at the time, it will mark | out the path and its dangers more distinctly, than even | the persons actually engaged in the task can perceive. After the rebellion of 1798 a few of the outlaws remained concealed in the fastnesses of the Wicklow mountains, | and with these government thought proper to capitulate, | rather than continue so difficult a pursuit with so little | success as it had hitherto been attended with. The most celebrated offender was Dwyer, better known to the world as the Wicklow desperado ; being closely pur-

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