No More Learning

Patrick by
Jocelyn the monk, Cambrensis Eversus, O'Flaherty’s Ogygia,
and Vallancy's Collectanea. Magh Sleacht was situated the
present barony Mohill, county Leitrim, and afterwards
received the name Fiodhnach, which may signify wild
woody district. Fenagh after ages had celebrated monastery and college, and was long famous seat learning and religion.
Cromleacs huge stones and other Druidical remains are seen Fenagh this day.
Brefney was inhabited the early ages the Fir-Bolgs, who are called Belgae Belgians by various writers, afterwards by the Milesians the race Ir, the Clanna Rory, and lastly the Milesians the race Heremon. The Fir-Bolgs who possessed Brefney, are mentioned the ancient writers under the names Ernaidhe, Ernaians, and Ermaechs, which names are stated have been given them from their inhabiting the territories about Lough Erne. Ptolemy, the great Greek geographer the second century, denominates them Ermidi, Ernidoi, Erdinoi, given his Map Ireland by Ware, O'Conor, and others. These Erneans possessed the entire Brefney, and make remarkable figure
the history the early ages, from the various great battles fought between them and the Milesian kings.
the Annals, renders cultivator; and calls this monarch
Eochius camporum cultor, that Eochaidh the cultivator plains. Bryan, above-mentioned, had twenty-four sons, whose posterity possessed the greater part Connaught, and were called the Hy Briuin race. Of this race were the O'Conors, kings Connaught; the O'Rourkes; O'Reillys; Mac Dermotts; Mac Donoghs; O'Flahertys; O'Malleys; Mac Oiraghtys; O'Fallons; O'Flynns O'Malones; Mac Gaurans; Mac Tiernans, Mac Kermans; Mac Bradys, and some other clans. From Fiachra, brother Bryan, king Connaught, were descended the race Hy Fiachra, whom were the O’Dowds, O'Heynes, O'Shaugh nesseys, and other clans Connaught, hereafter explained. From Niall the Nine Hostages, monarch Ireland, another Bryan's brothers, were descended, mentioned the notes Meath, Tir Eogain and Tir Conaill; the O’Melaghlins, kings Meath the O'Neills, kings Ulster, and princes Tyrone; the O'Donnells, princes Tirconnell, and some other chiefs Ulster: thus these three great branches, descended from Eochaidh Muigh meadhoin, were the chief rulers the kingdoms Meath, Ulster, and Connaught.
The O'Rourkes and O'Reillys derived their descent from Aodh Fionn, Hugh the Fair, king Connaught, who died the beginning the seventh century, 611, and was buried
The name Breifne sometimes also written Brefine, and
Breghne, latinised Brefnia and Brefinia, and anglicised Brefney, Fenagh. This Aodh Fionn was descendant Bryan, king
and generally called the old English writers, the Brenny.
Seward's Topography, the name Breifne derived from Bre, hill,
and therefore signifies the country little hills, the hilly coun
try, derivation which may not appear inappropriate descriptive O'Rourkes, took their name from one their ancient chiefs, Ruarc,
the topographical features are scattered over the counties
the country, innumerable hills Cavan and Leitrim. These hills, round conical form, very beau
who was prince Brefney
the tenth century. The name Ruarc valiant, and arg, champion;
champion, and hence may signify tiful and fertile, producing various crops, and capable cultiva the valiant champion, the red-haired champion. Mention
different sizes, are chiefly
tion their very summits; and many fertile valleys are inter spersed among them. From the productive soil these hills, and
made the Four Masters the tenth, eleventh, and twelfth cen turies many celebrated chiefs the O'Rourkes: these chiefs often contended with the O'Conors for the sovereignty Con
their having been cultivated from the earliest times, the name
Breifne may probably derived from Bre, hill, and feine, naught; and the tenth century, one them, namely, Fergal
husbandmen, and hence may signify the hills the husbandmen; or, may derived from Bre, hills, and fine, people, that the
hills the people, the hills inhabited the people. On vast number of these hills over Cavan and Leitrim are found those cir
cular earthen ramparts called forts raths, and some them very large, which circumstance shews that those hills were inha bited from the earliest ages. As several thousands those raths exist even this day, and many more have been levelled, evident that there was very great population ancient Brefney. The erection these raths has been absurdly attributed the Danes, for evident that they must have formed the chief habitations and fortresses the ancient Irish many centuries before
O'Rourke, becameking Connaught, and reigned from 960, 964, when was killed battle with the men Meath. the twelfth century Tiarnan O’Rourke was king
Brefney, and frequently mentioned these Annals, account the abduction his wife, Dervorgal, (who was daughter Mur togh O'Melaghlin, king Meath), Dermod Mac Murrogh, king
Leinster, which led the English invasion under Strongbow and his followers. The O'Rourkes had the title kings Brefney and Conmaicne, and later times that princes West Brefney, that the county Leitrim, the O'Reillys becoming princes
East Brefney, the county Cavan. Ancient Brefney was, the tenth century, divided into two principalities, the O'Rourkes,
Brefney also bore the name Hy Briuin Breifne, Hy Briune Brefney, from being possessed the race Hy Briuin. The Hy Briuin race derived their namefrom being the descendants
Bryan, king Connaught, the fourth century, son Eoch
Connaught, before-mentioned; and from him the O'Rourkes and
O'Reillys were called Clann Aodha Finn, that the posterity Hugh the Fair. The O'Ruarcachs, O’Ruaircs, O'Ruares,
may derived from Ruadh, from Ruadh, red, and arg,
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76 ANNALS OF THE FOUR MASTERS, A. D. 1258.
Bryan Mac Samradhain (Mac Gauran), lord of Brefney, from the mountain westward, died. Teallach Eachdach (Tullaghagh in Cavan), was Thomas O’Beirne died.
slain by the Conacians. Ardgal O'Conor, son of the coarb of St. Coman, Awlave, the son of Art O’Rourke, lord of died.
as princes of West Brefney, being the principal chiefs, and the
O'Reillys, as princes of East Brefney, possessing the territory of
the present county of Cavan. O'Rourke's country was called Brefney O'Rourke, and O'Reilly's country Brefney O'Reilly.
O'Reillys extended their dominion over the entire the county Cavan, and one period over great part Leitrim,
stated the Annals, under the year 1239, that Fergal, son Cu chonacht O'Reilly, was lord Brefney, Dartry, and Clan
O'Rourke's ancient principality comprised the present county of Firmaighe, from the mountains eastward, which shows that he
Leitrim, with the present barony of Tullaghagh, and part of Tul
laghonoho, in the county of Cavan, the river at Bally connell being
the boundary between Brefney O'Rourke and Brefney O'Reilly.
Brefney O'Rourke was separated from Fermanagh or Mac Guire's
country, by Lough Melvin, Lough Mac Nean, and Cuileagh moun
tain. It appears also that a small portion of the barony of Car
bury, in the county of Sligo, belonged to Brefney O'Rourke.
Conmaicne, also called Conmaicne of Moy Rein, of which the son Mahon O'Reilly, lord Clan Mahon, and prince Brefney,
O'Rourkes were also lords, was an ancient territory which derived
its name from Conmac, one of the sons of Meva, the celebrated
queen of Connaught, at the beginning of the Christian era; it com
prised the southern part of Leitrim, namely, the baronies of Carri Westmeath. The O'Reillys, exercising independent sovereignty, gallen, Leitrim, and Mohill, with a portion of the northern part of princes Brefney, coined their own money; appears Anally, or county of Longford, extending nearly to Granard. It Parliament held Trim,
possessed the territory Dartry, the barony Rossclogher,
the county Leitrim. appears also that the O'Reilly's ex tended their territory and authority into the borders the English
Pale, far Kilmainham wood, and Crossakeele and Oldcastle Granard Longford, and parts
the Black Water near Kells, Meath, from thence far
Westmeath. O’Reilly's Irish Writers, the years 1380and 1415, stated that Thomas,
destroyed eighteen castles the English the Pale, and overran the country from Drogheda Dublin. According other authori ties this Thomas O'Reilly erected castle Ballinlough,
appears also that O'Rourke's rule extended at one period over a portion of Roscommon, for, in the Annals under the year 1562, it
is stated that the power of O'Rourke extended from Caladh, in the territory of Hy Maine, (in the county of Roscommon), to Drobhais, that is Bundroos, on the borders of Leitrim and Donegal, and from Granard in Teffia, in the county of Longford, to the strand of Eothuile, in the barony of Tirerell, near Ballysadare, in the county
corick or Carrickallen, and Castle Car, near Manorhamilton. They
maintained their independence, as princes of West Brefney, down
to the reign of James and had considerable possessionseven
until the Cromwellian wars, when their estates were confiscated.
Several the O'Rourkes have been distinguished the military
service foreign states, count Owen O’Rourke the Austrian service, under the empress Maria Theresa; count John O'Rourke,
John Talbot, earl another Parliament held Thomas Fitzgerald, earl
1447, the reign Henry VI. , Shrewsbury, lord lieutenant; and
of Sligo. In the Annals at the year 1470, it is recorded that the
O'Rourkes were inaugurated as princes of Brefney at a place called
Cruachan O'Cuprain, supposedto be Croaghan, near Killeshandra,
as it is stated that the O'Reillys and the people of Tullyhunco met
O'Rourke's party at Ballyconnell, to oppose the inauguration. the northern territories. Camden, writing the reign Elizabeth, The O'Rourkes had their chief castles at Dromahaire, Leitrim, Clon
distinguished soldier fortune, who served commander
the armies France, Russia, and Poland, between the years 1760
and 1780, and his brother count O'Rourke, who was colonel the Cromwellian war, and fought the battle Benburh, under cavalry the Imperial Austrian service, the same time, and
was married niece field marshal Lacy. Accounts these
officers and the genealogy the O'Rourkes, princes Brefney,
haise, the summit which may still seen the remains Magazine for 1782. There present count O'Rourke the Druidical temple, consisting several huge stones standing up military service Russia. right. after times the O'Reillys were inaugurated the Hill The O'Reillys, above stated, were descended from the same Tullymongan, above the town Cavan. The O'Reilly's had cas ancestor the O'Rourkes, namely Aodh Fionn, Hugh the tles Tullymongan, Ballynacargy, Tullyvin, Lisgannon, Belturbet,
Fair, king Connaught, the beginning the seventh century. Ballyconnell, Cloughoughter, Kilmore, Lismore, and Camett, near They took the name O'Raighilligh O'Raghallaigh, pronounced Crossdoney; Tonagh, and Ballinrinke, near Lough Sheelin; O'Railligh, and rendered into O'Reilly, from Raghallach, one Kilmacrott, Loughramor, and Mullagh; Tonragee, now Baile their celebrated chiefs, the tenth century. The name Raighal borough, and Muff near Kingscourt, the ruins some which lach may derived from Raigh, arm, and all allach, strong castles still remain. An interesting account the O'Reillys
powerful; hence may signify, strong arm, epithet very the reign James given the works Sir John Davies. applicable warlike chief. The O'Reillys also took the tribe name Several the particulars above mentioned concerning the O'Reillys
Muinter Maolmordha, the people Maolmordha, from Maol have been collected from the Book Cavan, ancient record, mordha, another their celebrated chiefs. This name Maolmordha, chiefly compiled by the learned Chevalier O'Gorman, from the Mulmora, latinised Milesius, and anglicised Miles, was favorite works O'Cuirnin, Historiographer Brefney, and other ancient name with the O'Reillys, and was borne many their chiefs. Irish MSS. , together with family papers. The original this
The principality Brefney O'Reilly comprised originally the curious and interesting MS. the possession the publisher
Charles O'Conor Belenagar, are given Walker's Hibernian
greater part the present county Cavan, the boundary between and Brefney O'Rourke being, already stated, the river
Ballyconnell, and being separated from Fermanagh, Mac Guire's country, the Ballyconnell mountains; but after times the
these Annals, Mr. Geraghty, Anglesea-street. The O'Reilly's are extremely numerous, being estimated about 20,000 persons the name the county Cavan, and there are many respectable
families them the counties Cavan, Meath, Westmeath,
Naas, 1457, the lord deputy, Kildare, which Acts were passed the Irish coinage, called O'Reilly's
prohibiting the circulation
money, the English Pale.
century many valiant chiefs the O'Reillys are mentioned, who fought several battles with the English forces the Pale, over whom they gained many victories, appears these Annals. The O'Reillys located the borders Meath were obliged maintain an incessant warfare to defend the frontiers of Ulster against the English the Pale, who made constant incursions into
From the thirteenth the sixteenth
says that the O'Reillys were famous for cavalry; and Fynes Mor rison, his account the wars Hugh O'Neill, earl Tyrone, against Elizabeth, states that the O'Reillys Brenny brought the standard O'Neill eight hundred foot, and two hundred horse. The O'Reillys maintained their independence down the reign James and possessed great property and influence even until the Cromwellian wars, after which their estates were confiscated. Maolmora O’Reilly, commonly called Miles the Slasher, was celebrated chief, distinguished for his great strength and undaunted valour: fought many battles Cavan and other places during
Owen Roe O'Neill. The O'Reillys were elected and inaugurated early times princes and tanists Brefney, the Hill Seantoman Shantoman, large hill between Cavan and Bally
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campaigns, and at present a peer of France, is descended from one of the Irish O'Reillys, who was an officer in the service of France in the last century.
The chiefs and clans of Brefney and the territories they pos sessed in the twelfth century, are, according to O'Dugan, as follows: I. O’Ruairc or O'Rourke, who is designated by O'Dugan, Ardrigh Breifne as buon smacht, that chief king Brefney lasting
sometimes called Conmaicne Moyrein, and comprised almost
sway, and whom, states, the rents tributes were paid. II. O'Raghallaigh O'Reilly, chief Maoilmordha, designated as
“Rioghthaoiseach na ruathar n-garbh, O'Raghallaigh na ruadh arm. ”
Connaught Muinter
Letterfian, Leitrim, celebrated wit and poet, who
stated have been the author the beautiful song called “The Exile Erin,” though its composition was claimed by Thomas
Campbell, author “The Pleasures Hope. ” XIII. O'Maoil
“Head chief O'Reilly
fierce conflicts,
the red arms shields. ”
miadhaigh O'Mulvey, chief
which lay along the Shannon on-Shannon.
Magh Neise Nisi, district the west Leitrim, near Carrick
the Mac Tiernans, also rendered Mac
O'Dugan, are collected from various other sources: Mac Brad
REIGN OF HENRY III. 77
A great war arose between the English and A conference was held between the English and Conor O’Brien, during which Ardrathan, Kil Irish concerning Felim O'Conor, and peace was colgan and many other country towns, with the established between them.
corn of the country, were burned.
Longford, Louth, Down, Dublin, Kildare, and Queen's County.
Many of the O'Reillys have been distinguished commanders in the
military service of foreign states, and among them may be men
tioned Count Alexander O'Reilly, who, between the years 1770
and 1800, was Generalissimo of the Spanish armies, and was of
the same stock as the O'Reillys of Baltrasma, in Meath ; of Kilna with part the parish Calry Sligo. Mac Maoiliosa, crott, in the county of Cavan; and of Thomastown castle in Louth. chief Magh Breacraighe, district the borders Leitrim Count Andrew O'Reilly, of the family of Ballinlough in West and Longford. XI. Mac Fionnbhair Finnevar, chief Muinter meath, was for more than fifty years a distinguished general in the Greadain Gearadhain, district the southern part Leitrim. Austrian service, and died at Vienna, in 1832, in the 90th year of XII. Mac Raghnaill Mac Rannall, name anglicised Rey his age. Count Michael Charles Joseph Reillé, a distinguished nolds, who were chiefs Muinter Eoluis. This territory was general of cavalry in the service of France, in all Buonaparte's
III. Mac Tighearnain
Kiernan Mac Kernan, and by some anglicised Masterson, aigh Mac Brady. Tiarnan Mac Bradaigh mentioned the
who were chiefs Teallach Dunchadha, signifying the tribe territory Donogh, called from one their chiefs, name which has been made Tullaghonoho, now the barony Tullyhunco,
the county Cavan. Mac Tiernan designated “the true
defender valiant chiefs. ” The Mac Kermans are still very nu
merous the counties Cavan and Leitrim, and several their
chiefs are mentioned the course of these Annals. IV. Mac
Samhradhain, designated “a bond strength,” who was chief
Teallach Eachach, Eachaidh, which signifies the tribe
territory Eachy, called from one their chiefs, and now the
barony Tullaghagh, county Cavan. This name now various parts Ireland. Baron Thomas Brady, distinguished generally made Mac Gauran, and some anglicised, rather field marshal for many years the Austrian service, and who translated, Somers, from the word Samhradh, which signifies died Vienna 1827, was native the county Cavan. summer. The Mac Gaurans modern times are very numerous II. The Mac Gobhains, Mac-an-Ghobhains, O'Gobhains, name
which has been anglicised Smith, are very numerous the county Cavan, particularly the parishes Lavey, Laragh, and Killinkere, among whom have been many respectable families. The Mac Gowans are also very numerous Rossinver the county Leitrim, explained the note Dalaradia, county Down. The Mac Gowans are the race Ir, Clanna Rory, descended from the famous warrior Conall Cearnach,
Cavan and Leitrim, and many chiefs the name the Annals. Mac Consnamba, chief Clan Clan Kenny, now known the Muintir Kenny
the counties
are mentioned
Cionnaith,
mountains, and adjoining districts, near Lough Allen, the parish
Innismagrath, county Leitrim. This namehas beenanglicised
Ford, and there are several the clan still those districts.
Mac Consnamha mentioned chief those Annals, D.
1252. VI. Mac Cagadhain, chief Clan Fearmaighe, district Conall the Victorious, who was chief the Red Branch Knights south Dartry, and the present barony Dromahaire, county Ulster, about the commencement the Christian era; and
Leitrim. This name has been anglicised Cogan Coggan. many the name have proved their distinguished descent, being O'Brien, his Dictionary, the word Eagan, states that the remarkable for great strength and bravery, and having been chiefs Mac Egans were chiefs Clanfearamuighe Brefney; hence gallowglasses under the O'Reillys. The Mac Gowans, originally
Mac Cagadhain and Mac Eagain may probably have been the same clan. VII. Mac Darchaidh, which O'Brien writes Mac Dorchuighe, chief Kinel Luachain, district the barony Mohill, county
powerful clan Dalaradia, the county Down, early times produced many eminent ecclesiastics, learned men, and poets, too numerous here mentioned; and modern times there
Leitrim, which may probably traced the name the are many highly respectable families the name Smith many townland Laheen. This name has been by some anglicised parts Ireland, and several have been eminent lawyers, some Darcy. VIII. Mac Flannchadha, name rendered into Mac whom, doubt, may trace their descent from the Milesian Mac Clancy, who was chief Dartraidhe Dartry, ancient Gowans. III. Mac Giolladuibh Mac Gillduff. the Annals, territory co-extensive with the present barony Rossclogher the year 1252, Manus Mac Giolladuibh mentioned chief Leitrim. Several chiefs the Mac Clancys are mentioned the Teallach Gairbheith, now the barony Tullygarvey, the course these Annals, and they are designated O’Dugan
the mighty Mac Clancy's. IX. O'Finn and O'Cearbhaillor O'Car roll, who were chiefs Calraighe, district adjoining Dartry,
county Cavan. IV. Mac Taichligh Mac Tully. Giolla Michil Mac Taichligh, mentioned the Annals, 1256,
the present barony Dromahaire, county Leitrim, and which appears have comprehended adjoining portion Sligo, near
the present parish Calry,
the present baronies Leitrim, Mohill and Carry the county Leitrim, with portion the north
tioned Lanigan, (vol. and comprised the parishes
that county. This district 256), under the name Drumlease and Killargy
men Calrigia, Leitrim,
the whole
gallen,
Longford.
mentioned the course these Annals. They were the race
The Mac Rannalls were powerful chiefs, and are often
Ir, Clanna Rory, and the same stock the O'Ferralls, princes Anally, Longford. They had castles Rinn, Leitrim and Lough Scur. Of this family was George Nugent Reynolds, esq. ,
The following Clans the counties Cavan and Leitrim, not given
Annals, the year 1256, one the chiefs who fought under the O'Reillys, great battle Moysleacht, Fenagh. The Mac Bradys sometimes called O’Bradys are given by Mac Geoghegan,
branch the O'Carrolls, chiefs Calry, territory Leitrim, the barony Dromahaire, already explained the preceding
part this article; and they are fact often called O'Carrolls the present day, particularly persons speaking Irish, who designate them Carullaghs. The Mac Bradys are extremely nu merous the county Cavan, particularly the barony Loughtee; and there are many respectable families the name
one the chiefs who fought under the O'Reillys the battle
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78 ANNALS OF THE FOUR MASTERS, A. D. 1259.
A. D. 1259. Tomaltach, son Torlogh, son Malachy O'Conor, returned from Rome after having been
Cormac O’Luimluin, bishop of Clonfert of St. consecrated archbishop Tuam the Pope's
Brenan, and the chief sage of Ireland, died a vener able divine at an advanced age.
of Fenagh. The Mac Tullys were chiefs of a district comprising
the greater part of the parish of Drung, in the barony of Tully the county Cavan, accordance with the project called the
garvey. W. Mac Cabes, a clan originally from Monaghan, but
settled for many centuries in the county of Cavan, where they are very numerous, particularly in the baronies of Tullygarvey and
Clankee. The Mac Cabes were a warlike Clan, and are frequently mentioned in the Book of Cavan, as commanders of battle-axe men under the O'Reillys in their wars with the English of the Pale. VI. The O'Sheridans, an ancient clan in the county of Cavan, and still numerous, particularly in the barony of Clanmahon. Of this clan were several persons distinguished in the literary world for the most brilliant abilities, as the Rev. Dr. Thomas Sheridan, president of the great school of Cavan, the friend and favourite companion of Dean Swift, and distinguished for his great wit and talents; Thomas Sheridan, his son, a celebrated actor, and author of an English Dictionary and other works; and Richard Brinsley Sheridan, the son of Thomas, well known for his splendid genius, and one of the most eminent men of his age as an orator, dramatist, and poet. Many other members of this family, too numerous to be here mentioned, have also been highly distinguished in the literary world. VII. The O'Corry's or O'Currys, given in the Map of Ortelius as a clan in Cavan, in the barony of Tully garvey. They were located about the place afterwards called Cootehill. Of this family was James Curry, M. D. , the celebrated writer on the civil wars of Ireland. VIII. The O'Clery's or Clarkes, a branch of the O'Clerys of Connaught and Donegal, and of the same stock as the celebrated authors of the Annals of the Four Masters, numerous in the county of Cavan, particularly in the baronies of Tullygarvey and Clankee, and many of whom have been distinguished for literary acquirements. IX. The O'Daly's and O'Mulligans, clans in the county of Cavan, who were heredi tary hards to the O'Reillys, and of whom accounts may be found in O'Reilly's Irish Writers. X. The Fitzpatricks, a numerous clan in the county of Cavan, chiefly located in the baronies of Tullyhunco and Loughtee. They were originally of the Fitzpa tricks of Ossory, but have been settled for a long period in the county of Cavan. XI. The Fitzsimons, a numerous clan in the county of Cavan, chiefly in the barony of Castlerahan, who came originally from the English Pale, being of Anglo-Norman descent, but have been long located in the county of Cavan. XII. The O'Farrellys, a numerous clan, particularly in the parish of Mullagh, county of Cavan. XIII. Several other clans in considerable num bers, in various parts of the county of Cavan, as the O'Murrays,
Plantation Ulster, was planted with British colonies, and Pynnar's Survey Ulster, D.
1619, given Harris's
Hibernica, the following were the families English and Scotch settlers the county Cavan: Clankee, sir James Hamilton, John Hamilton, William Hamilton, and William Bailie. Cas tlerahan, sir Thomas Ashe, Captain Culme, and sir John Elliot.
Tullygarvey, Captain Hugh Culme, Archibald Moore, John Ashe, and Captain Richard Tyrrell. Loughtee, John Taylor, Thomas Waldron, John Fish, sir Hugh Wirral, sir Stephen Butler, sir George Mannering, and Peter Ameas. Clanmahon, lord Lambert, Archibald Moore, and Captain Fleming. Tullyhunco, sir Claude Hamilton, sir James Craig, and Archibald Acheson.
Tullaghagh, Captain Culme, Walter Talbot, sir Richard, and sir George Grimes, and William Parsons. The following natives obtained grants the forfeited lands: Castlerahan, Shane Mac Philip O'Reilly, nine hundred acres. Tullygarvey, Mul mora Mac Philip O’Reilly, one thousand acres; Captain O'Reilly, one thousand acres Mulmora Oge O'Reilly, three thousand acres; and Maurice Mac Telligh (or Mac Tully), three thousand acres.
Clanmahon, Mulmora Mac Hugh O'Reilly, two thousand acres.
Tullaghagh, Mac Gauran, one thousand acres.
The following have been the noble families the county
Cavan, since the reign James The Lamberts, earls Cavan; the Maxwells, earls Farnham the Cootes, earls Bellamont; the Popes, earls Belturbet and the Verneys, barons Bel
turbet. Amongst the great landed proprietors, but not resident the county, are the marquess Headfort; the earl Annesley; and the earl Gosford and the landed proprietors resident the county, the chief are the earl Farnham, and the families Saunderson, Pratt, Burrowes, Clements, Coote, Southwell, Hum phreys, and Nesbitt.
The see Kilmore was founded St. Feidlimidh Felimy,
the sixth century. The bishops Kilmore were early times styled Bishops Brefney, Hy-Briune Brefney, and some
Mac Donnells, O'Conaghtys, O'Connells, Mac Manusses, O'Lynches,
Mac Gilligans, O’Fays, Mac Gaffneys, Mac Hughs, O'Dolans,
O'Droms, &c. XIV. Several clans in the county of Leitrim monastery Devinish or, might derived from Feara, men,
not mentioned by O’Dugan, as the Mac Gloins of Rossinver; the Mac Ferguses, who were hereditary erenachs of the churches of Rossinver, and whose name has been anglicised to Ferguson; the O'Cuirnins, an ancient clan in the barony of Dromahaire, and
many of whom were celebrated bards and historians; the Mac Kennys or Keaneys; the Mac Cartans, O'Murrays, and O'Meehans, are also numerous in the county of Leitrim.
Brefney O'Rourke was formed into the county of Leitrim, and so called from the town of Leitrim, in the reign of Elizabeth, A. D. 1565, by the lord deputy, Henry Sidney, and large grants
lands were given, the reigns Elizabeth and James I. , various British settlers there, the chief whom were the Hamil tons, who erected castle Manorhamilton the family Williers, dukes Buckingham, had also large grants lands
and the
and momach, marshes, that men inhabiting marshy country.
The Sherrards were after times barons Leitrim family Clements are the present day earls Leitrim.
race the Fir Bolgs, who were conquered great battle Brefney O'Reilly was formed into county, by the lord deputy, the above-mentioned monarch, Fiacha Labhruinne, leaving the sir John Perrott, 1584, the reign Elizabeth, and called Milesians masters the country. the tenth century, stated Cavan, from its chief town. On the confiscation six counties various historians, the Danes had large fleet Lough Erne.
palace, having brought with him Pallium, and great favours for the clergy besides.
Ulster, stated the note Tyrone, the reign James
times Tir Briune, namelatinised Ware Triburma. The diocese comprises almost the entire the county Cavan, with the greater part Leitrim, large portion Fermanagh, and small portion Meath.
II. Fermanagh, ancient territory, the same the present county Fermanagh. written the Irish, Feara Manach, Fear manach, and Feara Monach. The origin the word difficult determine, but might derived from Feara, men, and manach, monks, which might originate from its famous
About eight centuries before the Christian era, the reign Fiacha Labhruine, monarch Ireland, stated all the ancient annalists, the lake afterwards called Lough Erne suddenly burst forth and overflowed great tract land, which was called Magh Geannain, the Plain Geannan,
the Fir Bolg kings. This lake,
Tirconnaill, had first the name
by Cambrensis, Samarius), but afterwards obtained the name Lough Erne, which, according Peter Walsh, quoting Cam brensis Eversus, derived the name Erne from Erna, the fa vourite waiting-maid Meav, the famous Queen Connaught, who was drowned there. The ancient inhabitants this territory,
explained the note Brefney, were the Erneans, the
called from Geannan, one
explained the note on Lough Saimer (and called
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REIGN OF HENRY III. 79
The Giolla Cam Mac Gillchiarain, a man dis O’Rourke, and he took prisoner Art, the son of
tinguished in literature and poetry, died.
Hugh O'Conor gave the residence of Awlave, the son of Art, to Art Beag, the son of Art
Cathal Riavach O’Rourke, after he had displaced Awlave.
Hugh O’Conor went to Derry Columkille, to
In the tenth, eleventh, and twelfth centuries, the head chief
of this territory was O’Dubhdara, and several of the name are
mentioned in the Annals of the Four Masters; amongst others, Magh Niadh, and name still retained the mountain Tura.
Giolla Criost O’Dubhdara, Prince of Fermanagh, who was killed by the men of Fermanagh at Daimhinis, or Devinish Island, in
At the year 1498, these Annals, stated that Achaidh More was the town residence O'Flanagan. Of this ancient
O'Flanagan, who was colonel the Austrian army. Mac Giolla Finein Mac Gillfinnen, chief Muintir Peodachain the Port. This territory, the borders Fermanagh and Donegal,
Lough Erne, A. D. 1076. The O’Dubhdaras were probably of the
same race as the Mac Guires, who afterwards became princes of
Fermanagh. The name in Irish is Mac Uidhir, sometimes writ
ten Maguibhir, which is pronounced Mac Ivir, and has been
made Mac Guire and Maguire. The Mac Guires took this name
from Uidhir, one of their ancient chiefs; and they are of the still traceable the name Pettigoe. At the years
race of Clan Colla, of the same descent as the Mac Mahons,
lords of Monaghan; the O'Hanlons, chiefs of Orier, in Armagh;
the O'Kellys, lords of Hy Maine, in Galway and Roscommon;
and other clans, of whom a full account has been given in the
note on Orgiall. Many valiant chiefs af the MacGuires are men
tioned in the course of these Annals; and in O’Dugan's Topogra stated that Clan Congail and O’Ceanfoda lay Tir Manach. phy of the twelfth century, Mac Uidhir, or Mac Guire, is given
the reign of James I. , when their country was confiscated like
other parts of Ulster; but Conor Roe MacGuire obtained re-grants
of twelve thousand acres of the forfeited lands of his ancestors, and was created baron of Enniskillen—a title which was also
Termon Magrath, where they had castle the parish Tem plecarne.
borne by several of his successors. Several chiefs of the Mac
Guires are mentioned during the Cromwellian and Williamite wars,
and many of them were afterwards distinguished officers in the
Irish Brigade, in France, and also in the Austrian service. The plantation Ulster with British colonies, the reign James
Mac Guires produced several eminent and learned ecclesiastics;
amongst whom may be mentioned Cathal, or Charles Mac Guire,
archdeacon of Clogher, in the fifteenth century, the author of the
celebrated Annals of Ulster. An interesting account of the Mac
Guires in the reign of James given the works Sir John
Davies, who, amongst other particulars, states that the lands
Fermanagh were divided into three great portions, one which general King James and celebrated writer; sir Gerrard was entirely possessed Mac Guire, and another the church, Lowther; John Archdall; Edward Sibthorp; Henry Flower; while the third was allotted the rhymers and gallowglasses, Thomas Blennerhasset; sir Edward Blennerhasset, Francis Blem that the bards and swordsmen. The Mac Guires are still nerhasset; sir William Cole, ancestor the earls En numerous, particularly the counties Fermanagh and Cavan; niskillen; sir Henry Folliot; captain Paul Gore; captain
and many respectable families Ireland.
The following chiefs and clans
they possessed the twelfth century, have been collected from O'Dugan's Topography: O'Maolduin, O'Muldoon, chief
Roger Atkinson; Malcolm Hamilton; George Humes; sir John
Humes; and John Dunbar. Two three the natives ob tained grants, namely, Con Mac Shane O'Neill, 1,500 acres; Bryan Maguire 2,000 acres Tempodassell; and Conor Roe Maguire, who obtained large grants, and was created baron
the name exist various parts
Fermanagh, and the territories
Muinter Maolduin and Feara Luirg. This territory now known Enniskillen, before stated. The following have been the noble
the barony Lurg. The O'Maolduins are mentioned the
Annals, early the latter end the tenth century; and
Dubhdara O'Maolduin, lord the men Lurg, stated have
been killed, 1000. II. Muintir Taithligh, Mac Tullys, Butlers, barons Newtown-Butler, and earls Lanesborough. chiefs Hy Laoghaire Lough Lir, district which lay the
barony Lurg, near Lough Erne, towards Tyrone. III. Mac
Duilgen, not mentioned O’Dugan, given the Annals, which
state that Fergus Mac Duilgen, lord Lurg, was killed the
men Brefney, 924. IV. O'Flannagain O'Flanagan, Island Lough Erne, founded St. Molaise Laisrean, the chief Tuath Ratha, that the district the fortress, terri. sixth century, was celebrated for many ages seat learning tory which extended from Belmore Belleek, and from Lough and religion, and some venerableruins still remain, together
Melvin Lough Erne, comprising the present barony Mahera
boy. contained the ancient districts Iarthar Maighe and
family were James O'Flanagan, lieutenant general Dillon's regiment the Irish Brigade France, and his brother, John
1231 and 1234 the Annals, Mac Gillfinnen mentioned warlike chief, who made expeditions his ships along with
O'Donnell; and styled lord
Lough Erne: the Annals. the Annals
also men VI. Mac Giolla
tioned several other parts Michil, chief Clan Congail.
1238,
who were chiefs Muintir Maolruanaidh, and Maoith Leirg Monach. VIII. Mac Domhnaill Mac Donnell, chief Clann Ceallaigh, now the barony Clankelly.
The following clans Fermanagh are not given O’Dugan
The Mac Manuses, formerly numerous clan, chiefly Tirken
medy, who had the controul the shipping Lough Erne, and
as chief of Feara Monach, or Fermanagh, and designated in terms which may be thus translated:
“Mac Guire, the head of the batalions, Over the mighty men of Monach,
At home munificent in presents,
The noblest chief in hospitality. ”
The Mac Guires were inaugurated as princes of Fermanagh on
the summit of Cuilcagh, a magnificent mountain near Swanlinbar,
on the borders of Cavan and Fermanagh, and sometimes, also, at
a place called Sciath Gabhra, now Lisnaskea. They possessed
the entire of Fermanagh, which was called Mac Guire's country,
Tirkennedy barony probably Tir O’Ceanfihoda. The name Mac Giolla Michil, has beenanglicised Mitchell. VII. O'Maolruana O'Mulrooney, and O’Eighigh O'Heignigh, probably O'Heaney,
and maintained their independence as lords of Fermanagh down to
cians the Mac Guires, and many the name also learned eccle
siastics and historians, amongst whom may mentioned Rode rick Mac Cassidy, archdeacon Clogher, who partly compiled the
Annals Ulster. III. The O'Criochans O'Creehans, nume rous clan Fermanagh, and many whom changed the name Creighton. IV. The Magraths, who held some possessions
held the office hereditary chief managers the fisheries under
Mac Guire. II. The Mac Cassidys, who were hereditary physi
Fermanagh was formed into county by the lord deputy Sir
Henry Sydney, 1569, the reign Elizabeth. On
the
the following families English and Scotch settlers obtained ex tensive grants the confiscated lands Fermanagh, given Pynnar's Survey, A. D. 1619, Harris's Hibernica. Sir James Belford, Mr. Adwick; Stephen Butler, ancestor the earls
Lanesborough John Sedborow; Thomas Flowerdew Edward Hatton; sir Hugh Wirrall; sir John Davies, who was attorney
families Fermanagh since the reign James The Coles, earls Enniskillen; the Creightons, earls Erne; the Corrys, earls Belmore; the Werneys, viscounts Fermanagh and the
The family Loftus, earls Ely, have seat Fermanagh. In the ecclesiastical division the chief part Fermanagh comprised the diocese Clogher, but considerable portion
the county the diocese Kilmore. The abbey Devinish
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80 ANNALS OF THE FOUR MASTESS, A. D. 1260.
espouse the daughter of Dubhghall (Dugald), the son of Sorley (Mac Donnell).
The battle Drom Deirg Dundaleathghlas (Downpatrick) was fought by Bryan O'Neill and Hugh O'Conor against the English the north
Cathal Mac Consnamha, chief of Muintir Kenny
Leitrim), had his eyes put out Hugh Ireland, which many the Irish chiefs were
O'Conor, who also put out the eyes the hos slain, namely, Bryan O’Neill, the chief ruler tages Donal O'Rourke, namely, Niall Mac Ireland; Donal O'Cairre; Dermod Mac Loughlin; Donogh, and Bryan MacNeill, and likewise those Manus O’Kane; Kane O’Hennery; Donslevey
the hostages Hy Briuin. Mac Can; Conor O'Duvdiorma, and his son; Hugh O'Conor and Bryan O'Neill held con Hugh O’Kane; Murtogh O’Kane; Awlave
ference Daiminis (Devinish Island), Lough Erne.
Hugh O'Conormade peace with Donal O’Rourke, and gave him the lordship Brefney.
Taichleach Mac Dermott died. Miles Mac Costello died.
Hugh O'Conor took Gilbert Mac Costello pri soner, and plundered the entire Sliabh Lugha
O'Gormley; Cu-ula O’Hanlon; and Niall O’Han lon; and the whole fifteen chiefs the O’Kanes were slain there. number of the chiefs of Con
naught were also killed there, namely, Gillcreest, son Conor, son Cormac, son Tomaltach (Mac Dermott), lord Moylurg: Cathal, son Tiarnan O'Conor; Maolrooney Mac Donagh; Cathal Mac Donagh, the son Murtogh Hugh,
the county Sligo). Gilbert gave his three son Murtogh Fionn Teige, son Cathal, sons hostages for his own release, and Hugh son Bryan O'Mulrooney; Dermod, son
O'Conor set him liberty.
Teige O’Brien, heir presumptive
died.
Munster,
Teige, son Murrogh, son Tomaltach O'Mul rooney; Conor Mac Gillarraith; Teige, the son Kian O'Gara; Gillbaraigh O’Cuinn (O'Quinn);
Sidhridh O'Boyle was slain his own kinsmen. Carolus Mac Anespoig O'Murray, with many
O'Donnell (Donal Oge), collected great force others the chiefs, and common soldiers the
and marched into Tyrone; Hugh Buidhe O’Neill Irish.
marched with another force join him, and they Mac William Burke marched with force to
plundered the adjoining territories and proceeded into Oriel, and all submitted them wherever they came, after which they returned home.
attack Felim O'Conor, and plundered the country before him, until he came Roscommon; he did not, however, attempt proceed further, for
Felim O’Tuathail (O'Toole), lord Siol Hy Felim and his son Hugh-na-n-Gall were the
Muiredhaigh,” died.
A. D. 1260.
Tuatha prepared meet him, and the Cona
cians were their back the recesses; they
came resolution both sides make peace,
which they accordingly did; and Mac William re turned home.
Mac Maurice marched with his forces into Tho
mond attack Conor O’Brien, who was then
Coill Bearrain,” where the chiefs his people assembled support him; the English were
O’Beirne, prior common,) died.
Maolfinnen O’Mithigen died.
Kilmore,
Ros
Cionaoth
The archbishop Armagh consecrated Mala chy O'Conor' bishop Dundalk.
with one the ancient round towers, beautiful structure,
per
ancient territory the county Wicklow, thails or O'Tooles were chiefs.
A. D. 1260. Malachy O'Conor, bishop Elphin,
tioned, who died A. D. 1262.
Downpatrick. Stephen Longespé Longsword, earl Salisbury, then lord deputy
Ireland, commandedthe English the battle Down. Bryan O'Neill, prince Tyrone, who fell this battle, generally desig nated the Irish writers, Brian-Catha-Duin, that Bryan the battle of Down.
Coill Bearrain was probably Kilharron, near Burrisokane Tipperary, the borders the Shannon Lough Derg, opposite the county Clare, place where there were someancient castles.
fect preservation.
Teallach Dunchadha, now the barony
Tullyhunco, the Mac Kermanswere
Kiltartan, Lough Galway. Kilcolgan
which the O'Tua
the person here men
county Cavan, chiefs, explashed
Ardrathan,
rea, and Dunkellin, the another parish the same baronies.
A. D. 1259.
which the Mac Tiarmans
Brefney.
the note parish
the baronies county
Aodh Buidhe Hugh Buidhe O'Neill, that Hugh
O'Neill, the Yellow, prince Tyrone, who about this time took
possession great part the counties Down and Antrim,
which districts were called from him Upper and Lower Clanaboy,
explained
Siol Hy Muireadhaigh, sometimes called Mail, was an
the note Dalaradia
The Battle Drom Deirg,
2. as 1. 7. 6.
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defeated by them in the first onset; and David Pren dergast, who was a powerful knight; the Failgeach;
the parson of Ardrathan ;" Thomas Barret, and
many others whose names have not been recorded, were slain.
Manus, son of Hugh Mac Oiraghty, was slain
by Donal O'Flaithimh.
Loughlin, son of Awlave, son of Art O’Rourke,
Rathboth (Raphoe), was elected Armagh.
archbishop
REIGN OF HENRY III.
81
Fanad (in Donegal), through the miracles God and Tiarnan, his brother, were killed by Hugh and Columkille.
O'Conor, after they had been delivered to him by Donal, son of Niall, son of Congallach O’Rourke. Donal, son of Conor, son of Tiarman O’Rourke,
was killed by the people of Tullyhuncho (in Ca van); and Murtogh, his brother, was slain soon afterwards by Hugh O'Conor.
Art Beag, son of Art O’Rourke, was slain by Hugh O'Conor.
Teige Duv, son of Niall, son of Congalach, was
slain by Malachy, son of Awlave, son of Art (O'Rourke).
A great depredation was committed by Hugh
O'Conor, in Tuaith Ratha (in Roscommon), on
which occasion Conor Mac Brannan, chief of Corc
Achlan; Murtogh O'Maonaigh; the son of Bryan with John Mac Thomas, and Barry More;
the clergy Tirconnell, together with Conor O’Firgil, were
Sixteen the most distinguished
slaim Conor O'Neill and the people Tyrone, Derry Columkille. Conor O'Neill was soon
afterwards killed Donn O’Breislein, chief
Hugh, son Malachy O'Conor, was slain Maolfavaill O’Heyne.
Cathal O’Hara, together with five others the people Lieney, were slain the English,
the instigation
St. Fechin
Fingin, son
brethren, waged war and committed many depre dations the English.
The Geraldines marched with great force into Desmond, attack Mac Carthy (Fingin), who
encountered and defeated them engagement which eight barons, five knights, and several
Bermingham, the great church Ballysadare.
Donal Mac Carthy, and his
O’Fallon, and many others, were slain.
A depredation was committed by Mac Maurice on O’Donnell; but a party of O’Donnell's people
innumerable host of their common soldiers also fell that battle.
Fingin Mac Carthy was slain afterwards the English; and his brother, the Aithchleireach
overtook him at Bennan Brechmoighe, where
they burned some of his people, and slew Mac Carthy, assumed the lordship Des
mond.
Art, son Cathal Riavach O’Rourke, made
his escape from Hugh O'Conor; and the chiefs Brefney and Conmaicne gave him the government
Brefney.
Donal O’Hara plundered the sons Ber SitrickMacSeanlaighwasslainin Athloneby Don mingham revenge for the killing Cathal
others.
An immense depredation was committed by O’Donnell on Mac Maurice; and he, (O’Donnell),
plundered the whole of Carbury Sligo).
The fortress Conor O'Kelly Galway), was
cathach Mac Oiraghty and Tomaltagh Mac Oiraghty. O’Donnell marched with predatory force into Tyrone, after the battle Dun (Down), and plun
dered and burned the greater portion Tyrone on that occasion.
burned the people Hugh O'Conor.
Abraham O’Conellan, coarb (archbishop Armagh), died.
St. Patrick, sadare.
Bryan Roe O'Brien burned and demolished the
A. D. 1261.
Maolpatrick O'Scannail O'Scanlan), bishop
castle O’Conaing (Castleconnell Limerick), and slew the garrison.
The fortress Hugh O'Conor, Snamh
commander the English, was sir Gerald Fitzgerald, baron Offaly, who was son Maurice Fitzgerald, formerly lord justice Ireland.
M
Ardrahan, parish the county Galway. The chief called Failgeach.