No More Learning

Flaherty O'Carroll, chief Calry,” was slain
by Art, son Art O’Rourke. Muiredhach O’Teige died.
great shower rain fell festival SS. Peter and Paul, round the town Kilmore
A. D. 1251.
Kilnamullach was the ancient name Buttevant,
was this expedition
camp (of the English)
that dispute arose the Dundalk, between the
AIGHNED
mill might grind with the stream which flowed from the rising grounds Ath-ma-faithche, Fenagh, during the time that the vespers were chaunted.
the county Cork, where great Franciscan monastery was founded
by the Barrys, barons Barrymore.
Kilmore Hy Niallain, now the parish
cliff,
ancient district the borders
§. go.
which now known
the
parish
Calry,
county
Kilmore, Calraigh Calrigia, sometimes called Calraigh
the
barony O'Neilland, county Armagh.
Drum Leitrim and Sligo,
REIGN OF HENRY III.
69
A. D. 1251.
Rome.
Florent Mac Floinn (or Flynn), was, on Christ mas day, appointed arch
A-7 bishop of Tuam, on ac count of his greatlearning and wisdom.
who had received the greatest honour and respect, ted at Kilnamullagh," in both from the English and Irish his time, died.
(Reiner), archbishop of Armagh, went on a pilgrimage to
the Two Backs (in
Maodhog O’Beollain, coarb Columkille Drumcliff (in Sligo), man great dignity and affluence, distinguished for his hospitality, and
The castles Caol Uisce," and Moy Coba, were erected by the son Maurice Fitzgerald.
Conor O’Dogherty, chief Ardmiodhair (in
Donegal), the tower hospitality and bravery
the North, died.
Conor Mac Cathmoil, chief Kinel Feredaidh,
more of Hy Niallain. ” people Bryan O’Neill, while defending his
Ardgal O'Flaherty, the torch of bravery and wards against them, being the surety for
the diocese of Cork, by the Barry; and it was after wards selected as the burying place of the Barrys. Giolla Mocoinne, son of Giolla Mocoinne O’Ca
hal, was slain by Conor, son of Hugh, son of Cathal Crovdearg.
Teige, son of Tuathal, son of Murtogh Muinagh
O'Conor, was slain by the English.
The two sons of Rory O'Neill were slain in Kil Tirconnell, Tyrone, and Oriell, was slain by the
Hy Briuin,
that boats floated
men Meath and
the men of Munster were slain.
the the Shannon, and
Flan O'Loughnan, chief
county
Mayo), died.
A. D. 1252.
Maol
hospitality of the north of Ireland, died.
Gillcreest O’Breislen, chief of Fanad (in Done gal), and his brother, were slain by Ceallach
Balbh (the Stammerer) O'Boyle.
Donogh Mac Cathmoil, chief of Kinel Fere
daigh Tyrone),was slainby the people Orgiall.
O'Gormley and O’Kane.
Cuchonacht Mac Consnamha, chief Muintir
and many other districts, the peace-maker
Kenny,” died.
Giolla Iosa O'Carroll, chief cliff, died.
Manus Mac Gillduff, chief bheth,” died.
Calry Drum Teallach Gair
Munster, which many Great heat and drought prevailed this summer,
A. D. 1252.
Caoluisge signifies the Narrow Water, and name given
the Newry river; hence this castle was near Newry. Moycoba was the plain district about Downpatrick where the other castle was erected.
Muintir Cinaith, district along Lough Allen, the parish Innis Magrath, county Leitrim, which Mac Consnamba was chief. This name has been anglicised Ford.
Teallach Gairbheith was Tullygarvey barony, the county of Cavan.
Cluan Fiachna, probably Clonfeacle, the barony Dun gannon, county Tyrone.
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70 ANNALS OF THE FOUR MASTERS, A. D. 1253-54.
so that the people passed with dry feet over the Tyrone to attack O'Neill, but obtained no hos
principal rivers of Ireland. The people commenced reaping the corn twenty days before Lammas, (1st
of August), and the trees became ignited by the heat of the sun.
New money was ordered by the king of England
to be coined in Ireland, and the old money hitherto in circulation was discontinued.
Murogh O’Fallon, high constable of Connaught, was slain by the men of Brefney, in Moyrein.
Geoffrey O’Donnell marched with a predatory
force into Tyrone, and took therefrom much cattle
tages, for they were defeated with great slaughter on that expedition.
Bryan O’Neill, prince of Tyrone, waged war
against the English, and, having gone to Moy Coba
(Downpatrick), demolished castle and many others, burned Stradbhaile (Dundalk), and cleared (from the English) the entire plain Ulidia.
Donal O'Reilly, the Caoch O'Reilly (i. e. the one-eyed O’Reilly), Cathal O'Conor, and Giolla na-neev O'Ferrall, having collected their forces, marched into Muintir Eoluis to attack Cathal
and many hostages; but on his return he was Mac Rannall, and plundered the entire the
overtaken by Bryan O-'Neill, and a fierce battle country. They encamped for two nights Tully
ensued, in which the people of Tyrone were de Alain, and the third night Eanach Dhuibh.
feated with great loss, and many of their chiefs Giolla-na-neev O’Ferrall separated from them
were slain.
Alinn O'Sullivan, bishop of Lismore, died.
David Mackelly O'Gillpatrick, bishop of Clon macnois, died ; and Thomas O'Quinn, a friar minor, was consecrated at Rome his successor.
there, and the O’Reillys, with Cathal O'Conor, proceeded Cluain Conmaicne,” where they re mained encamped for night. When Hugh, son Felim O'Conor, received intelligence this, quickly collected his forces, and followed them Cluain, where fierce engagement ensued, which O’Reilly’s party were defeated, and Donogh, son Giolla Iosa, son Donogh O’Reilly, Mac
A. D. 1253.
Gillkelly O'Ruadhain, bishop of Hy Fiachra Giolla Toedog O’Biobhsaigh, and many others,
(Kilalla), died. John O’Laidig, a friar of the order of St. Dominick, was appointed his succes sor at Kilalla of Hy Fiachra, and was consecrated at Tuam, on the second Sunday in Lent.
A monastery was founded for friars of the order of St. Dominick, in Sligo.
A monastery was founded for the same order of friars at Athleathan,' in Liemey.
A court was built at Kiltesin,” by Tomaltagh O'Conor, bishop of Elphin. .
Owen O'Heyne, lord of Hy Fiachra (in Galway), died.
The daughter of the earl of Ulster, wife of Miles Mac Costello, died, and was buried in the monas tery of Boyle.
were slain.
The monastery St. Francis erected Mac Maurice Kerry.
A. D. 1254.
Maolfinnen O'Beollan, coarb died.
Ardfert, was
Drumcliff,
The English of Ireland, headed by Mac Maurice
(Fitzgerald), marched with a great force into Pierce Ristubard lord Siol Maolruain (in
A. D. 1253.
Athleathan Liemey. Dominican monastery was founded here by the Exeters Mac Jordans, lords Athleathan. This place was situated the present parish Templemore Strade, the barony Gallen, county Mayo, and was the
Cluain Conmaicne, that -Cloone, the barony
county Leitrim. Eanach Dubh, now the parish barony Mohill, county Leitrim.
Conmaicne county Galway,
Athenry, were lords.
Mohill, Annaduff,
ancient territory Lieney, and now the diocese Kiltesin, probably Kiltrustin, the county
where the O'Conors had castle.
Achonry. Roscommon,
A. D. 1254.
Dunmore, now the barony
Murrogh O’Melaghlin was slain by the son Sionagh O’Catharnaigh.
Aindilis O'Henery, the tower generosity the north Ireland, died.
Pierce Pramister (Bermingham), lord Con maicne Dunmore," died.
The monastery the friars St. Dominick Athlone, was burned.
Dunmore, which the Berininghams, barons
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Roscommon), and a baron, was slain on Lough Ree by Murrogh O’Melaghlin.
crossed the sea to confer with the king of England;
and the favours that requested were honour
ably granted him the king; after which re turned home.
REIGN OF HENRY III. 71
Sitrig Mac Seanlaoigh was taken prisoner by
Felim, son of Cathal Crovdearg O'Conor; and
the Seanshaileach Mac Seanlaoigh's eyes were Mahon O’Monaghan was slain Buimlin.
put out by him for his evil intentions, as he had
been informed that they had conspired to betray him.
Donogh Mac Donogh, son of Tomaltagh, and
Awlave O’Biobhsaigh were slain by the Conacians at Cluain Conmaicne.
Manus O'Gara was slain in a quarrel by the people of Felim O'Conor.
Dermod O'Quinn, Awlave his son, and the chiefs
Muintir Giolgain, were slain Faradhan Moy Treagh (in Longford), by Giolla-na-neev O'Ferrall, who afterwards plundered their property.
great conference was held between O'Conor Felim) and Mac William Burke, Tochar Mona Coinneadha. " peace was ratified between them, and his rights and possessions were con
The king of France returned from Jerusalem, ceded to Felim.
after having established a peace of three years' Juliana, daughter the coarb St. Cailin, (at
duration, between the Christians and the Saracens.
The monastery of Kildare was founded by the earl of Kildare; and the family have a splendid
tomb there, in the chapel of St. Mary.
A. D. 1255.
Dunslevey O'Flynn, abbot of the church of SS. Peter and Paul, at Armagh, died; and Patrick
O’Murray, prior of the same house, was elected to the abbacy.
Thomas Mac Dermott, archdeacon of Elphin, died. He was parson of Moylurg, Airteach, and Clan Cuain. -
Fenagh), and Giolla-na-neev, her brother, died. Ragnailt, daughter O'Ferrall, died bath.
A. D. 1256.
Flann (or Florence) Mac Flynn, archbishop Tuam, died Bristuma (Bristol).
party O’Reilly's people were slain Hugh, son Felim (O'Conor), namely, Cathal O’Laidigh, archdeacon of Eanach Dune, died. O'Reilly, lord Muinter Maolmordha and the
Hugh, son of Felim O'Conor, went into Tyrone, tribe Hugh Fionn; his two sons, namely, and made peace between his father and the people Donal Roe and Niall; his brother Cuchonacht; of the north of Ireland; and he brought back the three sons Cathal Dubh O'Reilly, namely, with him all the Conacians who had been in exile Geoffry, Fergal, and Donal; and Annadh, the son there, together with their property, through the Donal O'Reilly, was slain by Conor Mac Tiar midst of his inveterate enemies, namely, the sons nan. Niall Caoch (the One-eyed) O'Reilly; of Roderick O'Conor and the English, who did Tiarnan Mac Brady; Giolla Michil Mac Taichlich not venture to molest them. (Mac Tully); Donogh O’Biobhsaigh Manus
Mac Carroll assumed the archbishoprick of Mac Gillduff, and upwards sixty other chiefs,
Cashel of Munster.
Florence Mac Flynn, archbishop of Tuam, slecht,” and was fought the border
A. D. 1255.
Tochar Mona Coinneadha signifies the bog pass the con
ference, and obtained its name from the above circumstance, which
Maolmordha was the tribe name the O'Reillys
Maolmordha, one their ancient chiefs. O'Reilly
here the chief the tribe Hugh Finn, that
Fair, ancient king Connaught, who was ancestor the O'Reillys and O'Rourkes, princes both Brefneys, Cavan and Leitrim. An account the other chiefs mentioned here, fight ing under the O'Reillys, given the note Brefney, this Number.
occurred the borders great battle was fought, 1316.
Luke, who had been dean then archbishop Dublin.
mentioned Hugh the
given
A. D.
the Annals under the year 1256.
Roscommon and Galway, where
Cavan, from
St. Martin's
London, was
The archbishop Dublin' died.
Giolla Coimdhe O’Cinfaola, abbot Dune, died.
O'Giollaraine, abbot the church Tuam, died.
Eanach the Trinity
Moy
Moyslecht, where this battle was fought, was the ancient name the plain Fenagh, the county Leitrim. Muinter
were slain. This was called the Battle
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7 2 ANNALS OF THE FOUR MASTERS, A. D. 1257.
Ath Deirg, at Alt-na-hellte, above Beallach
na-Bethaidhe. The O’Reillys also slew many
of the chiefs opposed to them, among whom were
Dermod O'Flanagan, Flann Mac Oiraghty, Mur Fermanagh, where took goods and hostages,
rogh Fionn O'Ferrall, and many others. The O'Reillys’ Glasslaith (or Green-clad Chiefs), three times broke through the foremost ranks of their op ponents, but at length the main body of the hostile party overpowered O'Reilly's people at Sailten-na ngasan, and pursued them to Ait-Tighe-Meguirin, and from thence to the field of the great battle.
A lord justice” arrived in Ireland from the king
of England, and he and Hugh O'Conor had a
conference at Rinn Duin (in Roscommon), when
a peace was established between them, on condi
tion, that while he was lord justice no part of the
territory or lands of Connaught should be taken from O’Conor.
and proceeding thence into Brefney O’Rourke, they submitted his conditions.
A. D. 1257.
Mac Robiss, the abbot Cluan Eoais (Clones), died.
Murrogh, son Maolbride O’Fairchellaidh,
mon was consecrated by the bishop Tomaltagh Roderick O'Gara, lord of Sliabh Lugha (in O'Conor, for the friars St. Dominick.
Athlone and Dun Doighre" were burned one day.
O'Donnell, that Geoffrey, led his forces into
coarb St. Maodhog,' died. Maolpatrick Mac Cele, archdeacon
was slain.
Thomas O'Maolkiaran, chief sage died.
The monastery the Virgin Mary
Kilalla, Ireland, Roscom
Sligo), was slain by David, son of Ricard Cuisin. Hugh, the son of Felim O'Conor, plundered
Con, son Tiarnan O’Rourke, having gone
the residence O'Conor and his sons, ratify peace with them, conceded them their own demand the lands Brefney, together with
the lands of Mac Ricard Cuisin, in revenge for
the death of O'Gara; he demolished his castle,
slew the people that were and took the Cloch Inse-na-d-Torc Lough Fionnmoighe,
entire islands Sligo).
Ramall Mac
Lough Techet (Lough Gara
Brannan, lord Corc Achlann,” died.
into which Hugh, the son Felim (O'Conor), sent garrison.
Cathal Cuirrach, son Hugh, son Cathal Crovdearg (O'Conor), and Hugh, the son Conor, son Hugh, son Cathal Crovdearg, had their eyes put out, by Hugh, son Felim, son Cathal Crovdearg, through hatred and rivalship,
violation the guarantees the clergy, and compact the chiefs Connaught.
Con, the son Cathal O’Reilly, chief Muin tir Maolmordha, died.
Cloch Innse-na-d-Torc Lough Fionnmuighe
was burned O'Rourke, and turned the gar rison out of it.
Hugh O'Conor appointed Sitric, the son Ualgarg O’Rourke, joint lord along with Conor, the son Tiarnan O’Rourke, consequence which Donal, the son Conor, slew Sitric.
Dun Doighre, now Duniry, the barony Leitrim, county Galway, where the Mac Egans had castle.
Mac William Burke marched with predatory force against Roderick O'Flaherty, and plundered Gno More and Gno Beag, and took the entire Lough Oirbsen. ”
Donogh Mac Senlaich died Boyle.
the monastery
great war arose between Hugh O'Conor and Con O’Rourke,that the son Tiarnan, although
they had long been friends before that time; O'Rourke then joined the English, and made peace with them, for himself and for his people, without the concurrence Felim, his son Hugh O'Conor, who plundered O’Rourke's coun try, the Wednesday before Christmas, after which they made peace.
The lord justice who came de Zouch.
this time was Geoffrey Alan
the barony Ballintobber,
A. D. 1257.
St.
Maodhog, that successor St. Moeg, who
Corc Achlann, county Roscommon,
district
which the Mac Brannans were chiefs. Loch Oirbsen, that Lough Corrib, county Galway.
Coarb given
Dromlane, the county Cavan, St. Moeg, first bishop Ferns,
Gno More and Gno Beag were two ancient districts west Lough Corrib, the barony Moycullen, county Galway, which the Mac Conrys were chiefs. -OGYGIA II. , 312.
Archdall abbot which abbey was founded
native Brefney. O'Faircheal
the sixth century, who was
laidh was probably the same name O'Farrelly.
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REIGN OF HENRY III. 73
A conference was held between Felim O'Conor Ath-na-Failme, by Giolla Bearaigh O’Lamh
and the lord justice of Ireland, Mac William duibh, one his own people, and the people Burke, and the English chiefs, Athlone, Matthew O’Reilly.
where they made peace.
Hugh O'Conor committed great depredations
on O’Rourke about Easter.
brilliant battle was fought Geoffrey O'Don nell, lord Tirconnell, against the lord justice Ireland, Maurice Fitzgerald, and the English Con naught, Credrain Cille,” Roscede,intheterritory
Carbury, north Sligo, defence his princi
pality. fierce and terrible conflict took place, which bodies were hacked, heroes disabled, and
the strength both sides exhausted; the men Tirconnell maintained their ground, and com pletely overthrew the English forces the en gagement, and defeated them with great slaughter, but Geoffrey himself was severely wounded, having
Cathal O’Mannachain died on the 6th of December.
A. D. 1258.
Abraham O’Conellan, archbishop
received Pallium from the court Rome, which celebrated mass Armagh, the
the month June.
Salerna, archbishop Tuam, and
London, died England, having been appointed by the king England those
second day Walter
chief dean
dignities the preceding year. Tomaltach O'Conor, bishop
translated the archiepiscopal see
Gillcreest O'Carmacain, dean
Anmanach O’Cuirnin, man distinguished for
his piety, died.
Matthew, son Giolla Roe O'Roduibh, that
the Master, died.
The bishop's court Elphin, and the court
Kilsesin, were demolished Hugh O'Conor. O’Donnell (Geoffrey), was confined by his mor
Armagh,
Elphin, was
encountered single combat,
the fight Maurice Fitzgerald which they desperately wounded
By this fortunate victory the English
Tuam. Elphin, died.
each other.
and the Geraldines were driven from North
Connaught. Mac Griffin, noble knight, was taken prisoner by the people O’Donnell the
same day, after which they burned and completely plundered Sligo. Donogh, the son Cormac
O'Donnell, was slain the thick the fight. wounds Lough Beathach,' for the space
They (the people Tirconnell), then returned
home consequence the dangerous wounds
O'Donnell, for otherwise would have pursued the defeated English the Moy. On Geoffrey's
return home he demolished the castle Caoluisce,
which had been erected by the English keep the people Tirconnell subjection.
Maurice Fitzgerald, lord justice Ireland, for long period the destroyer the Irish, died.
year after the battle Credrain. When O'Neill (Bryan) received intelligence this, collected
his forces for the purpose marching into Tir connell, and sent messengers O’Donnell
O’Donnell, returned back with possible speed. The king England granted charter (or O’Donnell summoned the Connellians from all
patent) Felim O'Conor, for the five districts the king.
great war arose between Conor O’Brien, and the English Munster, who were slaughtered by him.
Teige O'Brien also committed immense depreda tions the English.
Conor, the son Tiarnan O’Rourke, was slain
Credrain, where this battle was fought, rising ground near the town Sligo, the north.
quarters wait him, and having assembled their lord’s call, ordered them, was not able lead them, prepare for him the coffin which his remains should finally conveyed, place him therein, and carry him the very midst his people; told them fight bravely
was amongst them, and not submit the power their enemies. They then proceeded
demanding sureties, hostages,
from the Tirconnellians, they had lord capable govern them after Geoffrey. The
messengers having delivered their commands
A. D. 1258.
Lough Beathach, probably the lake the parish
near Kilmakrennan, county Donegal.
Gartan,
and submission
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74 ANNALS OF THE FOUR MASTERS, A. D. 1258.
battle array at the command of their lord to meet tains Ireland were expelled the Aithech
O’Neill’s force, until both armies confronted each
other at the river called Suileach (Swilly). They
attacked each other without regard to friend or
relative, until at length the Tyronians were own territory from foreigners, from the day was
defeated and driven back, leaving behind them many of their men, horses, and much property. On the return of the Connellian force from their
victory, the coffin in which O’Donnell was borne was laid down on the place where the battle
inaugurated the lordship the day his death. The monastery Claen (Clane), Leinster,
the diocese Kildare, was founded for brothers the doder St. Francis.
Hugh, the son Felim (O'Conor), and Teige was fought, where his spirit departed, from the O’Brien, marched with great force Caol Uisge
mortification of the wounds he had received in the
battle of Credrain; and his death was not dis honourable, for in his expeditions was vic torious over his enemies. When O’Neill received
intelligence the death O’Donnell, again
sent messengers the Connellians demanding
hostages and submission from them, upon which hostages O’Reilly’s people, and also those the Connellians held consultation to determine Hy Briuin," from Kells Drumcliff, should
Tuatha,” was the return Donal Oge O’Donnell from Albain (Scotland), supporting the rights princes, reconciling chiefs, and defending his
(near Newry,) hold conference with Bryan O'Neill, whom the foregoing chiefs, after making peace with each other, granted the sovereignty over the Irish; and they agreed that the hostages
Hugh O'Conor should given him sure ties for the fulfilment this compact, and that the
what they should do, and decide what chief
they should yield obedience and submission, for
they had acknowledged lord command them
after the death Geoffrey. While thus deli naught with fleet from Insi Gall (the He berating, they beheld Donal Oge,” the son Donal brides), until came Conmaicne Mara (Con More O’Donnell, who had arrived from Scotland, namara), where captured merchant vessel,
noble and intelligent youth, his eighteenth and seized the cargo, which consisted year, whom the Connellians conferred the wine, cloth, brass, and iron. Jordan Dexeter, the
chieftainship. That was proper election, for
was by right their own lawful lord. The
Connellians informed him their choice, and
the same time communicated him the message
they had received from O’Neill, which ex pressed his indignation and contempt; and that
occasion made use that excellent old saying the Albanian Gaelic (Scottish Gaelic), which they used conferring with the messengers, viz. :
“So mbiabh boman pen as Sach Fean. ” “That every man should have his own country. ” Similar to the return of Tuathal Teachtmar over
the seas from Albain (Scotland), when the chief
Donal Oge O'Donnell, the son Donal More, prince Tir connell, was born 1240; his mother was the daughter Cathal Crovdearg O'Conor.
Aithech Tuatha, name translated Attacots, was applied the Firbolgs, who the second century by temporary insur
rection defeated the Milesians, and set upon the throne Ireland monarch their own race, namely, Cairbre Ceann Cait, but the Milesian monarchy was soon after restored under Tuathal Teacht
mar, Tuathal the Acceptable.
Hy Briuin. This was the name applied the territory both Brefnies, explained the note Brefney; and this pas
sheriff Connaught, pursued Mac Sorley the island which stopped, and near which his ships were anchored. conflict ensued, which Jordan was slain, and also Pierce Agabard, knight belonging his party, with many others. Mac Sorley and his people returned their own country joyfully and enriched.
Donal, son Conor, son Tiarnan O’Rourke, who was kept confinement behalf his father by Felim O'Conor and his son Hugh, was set liberty them, and appointed the lord ship Brefney" the place his father.
Macraith Mac Tiarnan, chief Teallach Dun sage she that Hy Briuin, Brefney, extended from Kells
likewise given Hugh, the son Felim (O'Conor).
Mac Sorley (Mac Donnell) sailed round Con
Meath, counties
Drumcliff, the county Sligo thus comprising the Cavan and Leitrim, with portion Meath, and
part
West Brefney Leitrim, and O'Reilly East Brefney Cavan.
the barony Carbury Sligo, O’Rourke being prince
Brefney. This ancient and extensive territory comprised the present counties Cavan and Leitrim, and was part the king dom Connaught down the reign Elizabeth, when was formed into the counties Cavan and Leitrim, and Cavan was added the province Ulster. Some the earliest events Irish history are recorded having taken place this territory.
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REIGN OF HENRY III. 75
chadha," was slain by Donal, son of Tiarnan brother Cathal, the son of Conor. After that the O’Rourke. The Conacians, and the men of Bref government of Hy Briuin was given to Art, the ney in general, then deprived Donal of the lordship, son of Cathal Riavagh O’Rourke, viz. from the
and the people of Teallach Dunchadha slew his
About nine centuries before the Christian era, according to our
ancient annalists, Tigearmmas, monarch of Ireland, of the race of
Heremon, was the first who introduced Druidism and the worship
of idols into Ireland ; and it is stated, that while worshipping the
idol Crom Cruach, the chief deity of the Irish Druids, along with a vast assemblage of his subjects at Magh Sleacht in Breifne, on
mountain eastward.
the Danes set foot Ireland, since they abound chiefly the interior and remote parts the country, where the Danes never had any permanent settlement. Cavan and Leitrim are many magnificent mountains and extensive bogs, the remains ancient forests, which have been frequently found the huge horns the Irish elk there are also many large and beautiful lakes, and several fine rivers, including the mighty Shannon, which has its source the foot the towering Cuileagh, one the Cavan mountains. Amongst the mountains Brefney may men tioned Sliabh-an-Iarain, the Iron Mountain, Leitrim, famous for its mines of coal and iron.
the feast of Samhuin, (one of their deities, the day dedicated to
whose rites was the same as the last day of October), he himself,
with three-fourths of his people, were struck dead by lightning, as
a punishment from heaven for his introduction of idolatry into the
kingdom. Magh Sleachta signifies either the Plain of Adoration,
or the Plain of Slaughter, and obtained name from the Druidical
rites performed there, from the human sacrifices which the
Pagan Irish offered up the deities Druidism, the Canaanites
offered up their's Moloch. this place stood famous tem
ple the Druids, with the great idol Crom Cruach sur aidh Muighneodhoin, who was monarch Ireland from 358 rounded twelve minor idols, composed pillar stones, and 366, and was the race Heremon. The name Muigh decorated with heads gold. This temple and its idols were meadhoin derived from Magh, plain, which the genitive destroyed St. Patrick, who erected church its site. Of makes Muighe, and meadhoin, which Dr. O'Conor, his translation
these events accounts are given the Life St. 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.