No More Learning

Eoghanach inwards, fled westward into Machaire Tulcha; O’Neill carried off preys and booty from the same plain, and from the borders Brefney, and returned with victory and triumph.
O'Neill marched with great force against the son Hugh Buighe O’Neill, attacked the castle Bealfeirste (Belfast), which took and demo
lished, and afterwards returned home.
John, son O'Hanlon, was killed his brother. Mac William Burke marched with great force
into the lower part Connaught, and O’Donnell marched with another force oppose him; O’Don- nell proceeded far Cuil Chamha, and Mac William far Coillte Luighne (near Ballysa- dare); Mac Dermott came the aid Mac Wil
|liam and Mac Donogh assist O'Donnell; O'Don nell marched across Fearsaid-na-Fionntragha (the
ford the white strand near Ballysadare), and lost some his horses and people going into Carbury; Mac William pursued him across, and
A. D. 1476.
The bishop Mac Gauran (bishop
died and was succeeeded by John the son Geoffrey, the son
tery Deirg, died. Anthony, grandson
Cathal O’Connor, the
light Ireland wisdom, and head master - arts, died.
Maguire, ie. Teige, son Edmond, son
the
Tho-
REIGN OF EDWARD IV. 291 --
on.
a
Ardagh), Bryan. Siacus, prior the monas
||
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Was by taken
William of of Clanrickard, and
Mac
was given by him to the son of Malachy O'Kelly,
the Port),
o
O'Neill made an attack on Oriel, and the sons Felim, the grandson of O’Neill, and the son of of MacMahon, i. e. the sons of Redmond and Bryan, Savadge (of the county of Down), were taken pri the son of Roderick, and the Orgiallians from
mas, was treacherously killed his brother Ro- derick.
Donagh, son Thomas, son Thomas, son Philip Maguire, heir the lordship Fermanagh, man distinguished for his benevolence, hospitality
and nobleness, died after the victory repentance.
Tuathal, the son O’Neill, was killed by the English the plain Oriel.
both parties remained for some time view each Teige Oge, son Teige, son Tiarnan other, until last they made peace, and divided
O'Rourke, tanist Brefney, died.
Hugh, the son O’Kelly, i. e. William, was
killed his own brother Teige, Athlone. O'Hara Riavach the West, i. e. William, died. Teige, son Owen, the son Roderick O’Co-
nor, was treacherously slain by three his own people, namely, the son Roderick Roe, son Owen, son Cathal, and Cahir, the son Mac anabadh O'Conor, and the son Donogh O'Teige, and they took the castle Roscommon, but was immediately after retaken from them.
A. D. 1476.
Raith Riabhach, now Rathreagh, parish Longford, ad
North Connaught into two portions between them, viz. O’Dowd's country, and Lieney, and the half Carbury was allotted MacWilliam, and the other half O'Donnell.
great army the English Meath marched into Magh Breaghmaine (Brawney Westmeath), and they demolished Rath Riabhach,' plundered the chief residence, burned the monastery Sru thair, destroyed the crops and corn the country, and departed without making peace.
Mac Rannall entered Brawney and destroyed
joining the river Inney, the borders Westmeath. Sruthra, above-mentioned, Abbeyshrule the county Longford.
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292 ANNALS OF THE FOUR MASTERS, A. D. 1476.
Mac Thomas (Fitzgerald), was slain; his three brothers, the son of Art, son of Con O’Melaghlin,
and the son of Maurice, son of Mac Pierce, were and of Leinster, in which the son of John, son of taken prisoners by O'Conor Faily.
the corn which remained unspoiled by the English forces.
A great war arose between the English of Meath
II. Moy-Liffey and Bregia. -In this article is continued from p. 273, the history and topography of the ancient territories which now form the counties of Dublin and Kildare, together with an account of the kings and principal chiefs of Meath, a subject which has been partly but not sufficiently explained at p. 5, in the note on Meath. At p. 266, in the note on Bregia, the printer has omitted three words, which the reader will please to correct, and instead of “Bregia was the name applied to the immense plain comprising the present counties of Meath and Dublin,” read, “Bregia was the name applied to the immense plain comprising the greater part of the present counties of Meath and Dublin. ”
sellagh, were, many them, kings Munster, and three them were monarchs of Ireland.
Firbolg. Kings. -In the second century, one the monarchs who usurped the throne, namely, Cairbre Ceanncait, was Firbolg. descent; but since the Milesian conquest, other Firbolg was monarch Ireland, but some them were kings Leinster, and they were for many centuries kings Connaught, and they
The monarchs of Ireland and Kings of Meath. -Meath was
for many ages the seat of the Irish monarchy, the chief royal
residence being at Teamhair or Tara, hence called Teamhair-na
Riogh, or Tara of the Kings, being the chief seat of the Ard
Righ, that the high king monarch who presided over the
five provincial kings and kingdoms Meath, Ulster, Connaught, from their ancoestor, the celebrated Niall the Hostages, the Leinster and Munster, forming the Irish Pentarchy. appears
from the old historians, that the Firbolg, Tuath Danan, and fourth and beginning the fifth century. The Hy Niall were Milesian kings resided chiefly Tara, and the monarchs also had divided into two great branches, namely, the Northern and Sou royal seats Tailtean, now Teltown, between Navan and Kells, thern. The Northern Hy Niall were also divided into two
these kings nine were the Firbolg race, and 'nine the Tuath
Danan, and the remaining one hundred and eighteen, honorghs. " taf Niall-of-the Hostages. The Southern Hy Niall, called also
were Milesians from Heremon Dathi. The Milesian colony Clan Colman, from Colman, one their princes, descendant
from Spain, whom accounts have been various other
Niall the Hostages, and
whom kings
account has been given
notes, having arrived Ireland about one
the note Meath,
tho Sandyears before the Christian era, according our ancient annalists, conquered the Danans great battle Tailtean, Meathy and begane
many centuries, and twenty-three them became monarchs Ireland. The
Southern Hy-Niall Ulan Colman, took the name O’Melaghlin masters Ireland. The posterity the three sons Milesius from Maolseachlain Malachy king Meath and monarch were divided into three great branches, namely, the 'Heränd-: "of Ireland the hinth century. The race Hy Niall furnished nians race Heremon, the Heberians descendants so er,” 'altogether forty-eight monarchs, and they exclusively reigned over
and the Irians posterity Ir.
The Heremonians became the most powerful łace, an ruled as
kings over Meath and Leinster, and many them also over Ulster, Connaught, and Munster, and sixty the Heremonians were supreme monarchs Ireland; all these were the Heremonians Meath and Leinster, with the exception four, who were
Ireland for period about six hundred years, namely, from the fifth the eleventh century, when Malachy II. , monarch Ire land, was deposed A. 1002, by Brian Boroimhe, king Muns
ter, head the Dafcassians the race Heber, who became monarch Ireland. the eleventh century, three the O’Briens, descendants Brian Boru, were kings Leath Mogha,
Leinster and Munster, and generally acknowledged titular monarchs Ireland, namely, Donogh O'Brien, the son Brian Boru, Torlogh O'Brien, his grandson, and Murtogh O'Brien, the son Torlogh, who died the beginning the twelfth century, A. D. 1118. Diarmaid Mac Maol-na-mbo, celebrated king Leinster, the Cahirian race, Heremonians Leinster, was from his great power also acknowledged titular monarch Ireland for many years, the eleventh century, and died D. 1072.
the twelfth century Donal Mac Loghlin O'Neill and Murtogh Mac Loghlin O'Neill, two powerful princes the northern Hy Niall race, were generally acknowledged kings Leath Cuinn, and monarchs Ireland. the twelfth century also, Torlogh O'Conor, and his son Roderick, kings Connaught, the Hy Briune race, Heremonians Connaught, became monarchs Ireland; and Roderick O'Conor, the last Milesian monarch
the Heremonians Ulster, and three who were
the Clanna
na Rory, anglicised Rudricians, and were named from Rudh
raighe More, Rory the Great, one that racewho was king
Ulster, and monarch Ireland about one hundred and fifty years before the Christian era, ruled kings Ulster, and twenty-four
them were monarchs Ireland, together with one supreme queen that race called Macha Mongruaidh, Macha the Red Tresses, designated from the colour her hair; her reign
placed about four centuries before the Christian era, and remarkable that she was the only supreme queen that ever reigned
Ireland. The Irians ruled kings Ulster for more than
Deagha, Heremonians The Heberians race
Munster, and twenty-nine
The Irians, who were also called Clanna Ruadhraidhe Clan
race Clan Colla and Hy Niall,
the Heremonians explained the notes
the
Ireland, having abdicated the throne the English invasion, died
1184, consequence 1198, the 82nd year his Mayo, and was buried the
Munster.
Heber, chiefly ruled
kings Ireland.
them becamemonarchs
the sovereignty that pro
thousand years but were deprived vince the fourth and fifth centuries,
Orgiall and Tir Eogain.
The Ithians race
be considered branch
have been given the notes Thomond, Desmond, and Hy Kin celebrated Cormac, monarch Ireland the third century,
Ith, called Clanna Breogain, who may the Milesians, and whom accounts
age, the monastery cathedral St. Kiaran,
Cong, Clonmacnois.
continued rule over that province down the third century. Christian Kings. -Laoghaire, son Niall the Nine Hostages, who became monarch of Ireland about the middle of the fifth century, considered the first Christian king, and was least cotemporary with St. Patrick, though doubted was con verted Christianity. From the middle the fifth the latter end the twelfth century, fifty-five Milesian monarchs ruled
over Ireland; they were mostly all Heremonians, and forty-eight were the Hy Niall race. The race Hy Niall took their name
o: land from the earliest ages the middle the fifth century, and,
branches, namely, the O'Neills, princes Tyrone and kings Ulster, and the O'Donnells, princes Tirconnell Donegal, explained the notes Tir Eogain, Tir Conaill, and Meath.
The Northern Hy Niall were the kings and chief rulers Ulster,
near the river Blackwater, and Tlachtgha, now supposed
the Hill Ward, between Trim and Athboy,
Meath, and the Westmeath
Hill Uisneach, few miles from Mullingar,
Tlachtgha and Uisneach were likewise two Druidism Ireland.
the chief seats
The Pagan Kings—The Irish historians reckon one hundred' #. race of th
onarchs Ireland, namely, sixteen eills Kinel Eogain Eugenians,
and thirty-six Pagan kings, who were of Ire
Eogan, one the sons Niall the Hostages; O’Donnells,
race Heremon, and monarch Ireland the latter end the
many
e
descendants
and nine the race the called Kinel Conaill Conallians, descendants Conall Gulban, another the sons
Cormac's Palace
Tara. -An account the palace the
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given by various historians. It was called Teach Miodhehwarta, signifying either the House of Banquets or the House of Conven tions; also Teach-na-Laech, which meant the House of the
Heroes, and it was the place in which were held the great Feis Teamhrach or Conventions of Tara, hereafter described, and in halls the monarchs gave their great banquets, and entertained
God and the monastery
REIGN OF EDWARD IV. 293
and Bryan, the son of Conor Oge Maguire, died. A. D. 1477. Roderick, son of Edmond Maguire, was treach
erously killed by Cuchonacht, the son of Redmond ERALD, the son of Riavach, son of Don, son of Cuchonacht Maguire.
the earl of Desmond,
was slain and eighteen ofthe Geraldines were
Matthew O’Leinnin, erenach of Ardes (in the Bryan,son of Mau county of Down), a learned historian, died.
putto death after that.
rice Mac Dermott,
was killed by his own tribe.
Dissensions and strife arose between O’Donnell and the sons of Naghtan O’Donnell, and Niall, the son of Donal O’Donnell, and Felim, the son
Don, son of Owen, son of Hugh Maguire, was
killed by Donogh Oge, son of Donogh, the son of Hugh.
Ailbe, the daugh ofTorlogh O’Donnell, were killed by the sons of
Naghtan on that occasion, and much damage was done among them; O’Neill marched with his
forces into Tir Hugh, at the invitation of the sons of Naghtan, and having plundered and burned Tir Hugh, he returned home victoriously.
Cormac, the grandson of Donogh, son of Mac
Ollamham, the house the learned, which resided the bards, brehons, and other learned men; and likewise Rath-na Seanadh, which signifies either the Fort the Conventions
the Synods, and said called from great meetings held there different times St. Patrick, St. Adamnan, St. Brendan, and St. Ruadhan; also Rath-na-Riogh, the Fortress the Kings, Dumha-na-ngiall, the Mound the Hostages, where there was fortress which the hostages were kept, and Dumha na-m Ban-amus, signifying the Mound
which was probably either habitation
ancient heroines; there was likewise
habitations adjoining the palace. Cormac was the son Art, son Feart, the Sacred Retreat, which was the residence the
the provincial kings, princes, and chiefs. length the structure was 300 feet, the breadth
stated that the cubits about feet; contained
feet, and the height cubits nearly
numerous apartments besides the royal bed chamber, and had
the Warlike Women, burial place those
doors; and stated that there were seven other great
habitation called Cluan
Con the Hundred Battles, monarchs Ireland, the race
vestal virgins Druidesses, according Dr. O'Connor and others.
At Tara were also habitations for the warriors, Druids, Brehons, and bards, and also for the provincial kings, princes, and chiefs who
attended the great national conventions, and therefore the place was considered city those ancient times. There are many remains the mounds, raths, and other antiquities, still remain ing Tara, but many those mounds and ramparts have been levelled the course ages. According the ancient historians, many the kings, queens, and warriors the early ages were buried Tara, and several sepulchral mounds were raised there their memory. one the earthen ramparts Tara were discovered, the year 1810, two the ornaments called torques, sort golden collar spiral twisted work manship, and circular form, open one side, worn the necks ancient kings and chiefs, and similar those which were worn the ancient kings and chiefs Gaul, and were called torc the Celtic language. One the torques discovered
Tara five feet seven inches length, and something more
Heremon, and was one the most celebrated the Irish
ings munificence, learning, wisdom, and valour; and the glo
ties palace Tara were, for many, ages, the theme the
Irish bards. Amongst other splendid articles mentioned that had the royal banquets 150 massive goblets pure gold.
Cormac's palace was situated the Hill Tara, and great part the circular earthen ramparts, together with large mound the centre, still remain. The palace considered have been built chiefly wood from the oak forests, ancient times abun
dant Ireland, and was probably part formed stone-work, fortress cyclopean architecture, composed great stones with
out cement, and though few those stones now remain, they may have been removed the course ages, and placed other buildings, particularly the hill Tara was easily accessible, and though this royal residence could not compared with the elegant stone buildings more modern times, yet was distinguished for
the rude magnificence peculiar those early ages. On the Hill Tara were also erected several other raths fortresses
than twenty-seven ounces weight, and all formed gold; the other torque beyond twelve ounces
they form some the most interesting remains art.
the purest weight, and
ancient Irish
various ancient historians, amongst the fortress, city, seat Cro
and mounds, mentioned
others Cathair Crofinn, that
finn, called from Crofinn, one
this building was also named Tur-Trean-Teamhrach, signifying
the Strong Tower Tara, and the term Cathair was applied only stone buildings, this was probably fortress Cyclopean architecture, the stones which may have been removed the $ourse time; and the Danans are stated the old writers havebuilt fortresses other parts Ireland, particularly that
De Danan kings afterwards resided there, and was, mentioned, called Cathair Crofinn, the Fortress from one the Danan queens; by the Milesian kings
above Crofinn, got the
the Tuath De Danan queens,and
Tara had various names ancient times. was first founded royal residence Slainge, one the Firbolg kings, and was
afterwards called Liath Druim, the Hill Liath; the Tuath
SalledAileach Neid Tyrconnell, situated great hill near name Teamur, Teamhair, anglicised Temor and Tara, and Lough Swilly, Donegal; and this Cyclopean fortress some Latinised Temora Temoria. In the celebrated work called
"uinsstill remain. Tara was also the building called Mur Dinseanchus, which gives account the origin the names
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294 ANNALs OF THE FOUR MASTERS, A. D. 1477.
Carthy Riavach Desmond), was taken prisoner grandson Dermod Ravar, Muskerry, and by
by Cormac, son Teige, son Cormac, the
remarkable places ancient Ireland, and was composedby Amer gin, chief bard Dermod, monarch Ireland, the sixth century, the origin the name Teamur thus given:—Teph Tephi,
daughter Bachtir, king Spain, having been married
Canthon, king Britain, died there, but her body was brought
back Spain, and mur mound was erected her memory, and called Tephi-mur, the Mound Tephi. Tea, daughter Lughaidh, son Ith, and queen Hereinon, the first Milesian monarch Ireland, having seen the mound Tephi while Spain, she caused similar mound constructed when she came
Ireland, sepulchral monument for herself; and, being buried there, was called Tea-mur, signifying Tea’s mound, and hence was derived the name of Tara. In after times was called Teamhair na Riogh, Rath Cormaic, that Tara the Kings,
the sons Dermod-an-Dunaidh, i. e. his uncle’s
“From thenceforth was called Druim Cain. This hill, where the great assembled,
Until the coming Crofinn the fair,
the Fortress the names beautiful
Cormac. also mentioned old writers under Druim Aiobhin and Tulach Aoibhin, signifying the delightful hill. An account raths has been given
the first part this article, and the term Lios has also been explained, both which names were applied the circular earthen
ramparts
also applied
was applied
for instance, the great stone fortress, Cyclopean architecture, called Dun Aonguis, situated the Island Arran, off the coast
ancient fortresses. The names Dun and Dinn were ancient fortresses, and the term Dun appears earthen ramparts and also stone fortresses, as,
Daughter
the far-famed Alloid.
Danan,
The wife Heremon noble aspect.
“A rampart was raised around her house For Tea, the daughter Lughaidh,
She was buried outside her mound; And from her was named Teamur.
“The seat the kings was called,
The princes, descendants the Milesians. Five names had ere that time,
That from Fordruim Temor.
“I am Fintan, the bard,
The historian many tribes;
latter times have passed my days At the earthen fort aboveTemor. ”
The following poem Tara, literally translated from the Irish, was composed by Cuan O'Lochain, celebrated bard who died the beginning the eleventh century, A. D. 1024. He was the chief bard and historian Ireland his time, and for his great
Crofinn, applied
“The fortress
Was its name
Until the coming the agreeableTea,
among well
the Tuath De
Galway, which account has been given the note South Connaught. The names vast number places Ireland commence with Rath, Lis, and Dun, which shews the great number those fortresses ancient times. The term Aileach Oileach, derived from Ail, rock stone, was also applied stone fortresses, as, for instance, Aileach Donegal,
Cyclopean fortress, and residence the ancient kings Ulster. Caisiol and Caislean were the names applied more modern times stone fortresses and castles. An account the
ancient names, and other curious matters connected with Tara, given poem from the ancient Irish composition called Dinnseanchus, which has been copied from the Books Leacan
abilities and virtues was appointed during of Ireland :—
interregnum Regent
and Ballymote. This poem was composed
Amergin, chief bard Dermod, monarch
century, from information communicated
called Fintan. The following verses are literal translation this poem:—
Bregia, whence called,
me, learned sages
When was distinguished from the Brugh When was the place called Temor?
“Was the time Partholan of battles Or at the first arrival of Ceasair
Or the time of Nemed famed for valour? Or with Ciocal of the bent knees?
“Was with the Firbolg great achievements?
Or with the race fairy elves? Tell me which of those invasions
“It gave great happiness the women When Temor the strong was erected, And the daughter Lughaidh obtained
hill the plain, deserved by lover.
“The dowry which the wife Geide requested Of her husband, have learned,
Was delightful fortress for noble dwellers, Which she soon with skill selected.
“A dwelling, which was stronghold and fortress; The best mounds, which could not demolished;
Where after her death was Tea’s monument, Which event perpetuated her fame.
“The gentle Heremon here maintained His lady, secured the fortress;
And she received from him all favours she desired, And all his promises her fulfilled.
“Bregia Tea was delightful abode; recorded place renown,
And contains the grave the great Mergech, sepulchre which was not violated.
“The daughter Pharaoh many champions, Tephi, the most beautiful that traversed the plain,
Here formed fortress circular and strong,
Which she described with her breast-pin and wand.
“She gave name her fair fortress, This royal lady agreeable aspect;
The fortress Tephi, where met the assembly,
Where every proceeding was conducted with propriety.
“It may be related without reserve
That mound was raised over Tephi recorded,
And she lies beneath this unequalled tomb, Which mighty queens had formed there.
“The length and breadth the tomb Tephi, Accurately measured by the sages,
Was sixty feet exact measure,
As prophets and Druids have related.
“Temor Relate
Did the place obtain the name
Temor?
Temor?
“Once was beauteous hazel wood,
the time the famed son Olcan, Until that dense wood was felled
By Liath, the son Laighne, the large and blooming.
“From thence was called the Hill Liath, And was fertile crops corn,
Until the coming Cain the prosperous, The son of Fiacha Ceannfionan.
“O Tuan Bran
generous Finnchadh active Cu-alladh
ye venerable five,
Dubhan
Whence was acquired the name
the above-mentioned Ireland, the sixth him old sage
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REIGN OF EDWARD IV. 295 sons; and a commotion arose over all Munster completely spoiled between both English and
“South of the Rath
Kings
of the
The Rath of Laoghaire, and his fort,
remain
And his monument in the middle of the fort.
-
- -
!
through that death, and the southern half was
“Spain, the powerful, has heard
Of the mild, fair, and comely daughter Of Cino Bachtir, son of Buirrech,
Whom Canthon, the mild hero, married.
“Tephi was her name; she excelled all virgins, And unhappy for him who should entomb her. Sixty feet of correct admeasurement
Were marked as a sepulchre to enshrine her.
“The mourning king of Brigantia ceased not his efforts, Though they defeated the intentions of Canthon,
Until she should berestored to her native place By the far-famed king of the Britons.
“The mournful death of Tephi, who had cometo the north, Was not for a moment concealed.
Canthon launched his ship with speed On the waves of the rough briny waters.
“The idol-god of Canthon was not concealed.
Etherun, in whom they placed their faith,
And the host of the bright blue eyes,
Had been pledged for the restoration of the mighty Tephi.
“The chief of Britain hailed them from the shore,
That he was there for the idol Etherun,
And that a meeting should be held to select a sepulchre In the south, as a tomb for the beloved Tephi.
“It was in that place, according to arrangement, They nobly constructed the first model
For that of Temor, of unrivalled form
And of delightful and elegant aspect.
“The term Temor is applied to every eminence On which stands a well-fortified residence, And to every hill of a level summit;
And it exceeds all places except Emania.
“It was the habitation of great chiefs and warriors, Who often engaged in fierce contests.
Temor, the impregnable, of lasting resources, Which conferred on the women high renown. ”
It appears from the foregoing poem that Tephi, therein men tioned, daughter of Cino Bactir, king of Brigantia in Spain, was married to Canthon, king of Britain, and as a guarantee that her body should be restored for burial in Spain, the chief idol of the Britons, called Etherun or Taran, was left as a pledge with the king of Spain; and Canthon, king of Britain, having restored the body of Tephi, she was buried in a sepulchral mound, from which was taken the model of queen Tea’s tomb, called Tea-Mur, from which was derived the name of Temor or Tara.
Cuan O'Lochan, in another of his poems, contained in the Book of Ballymote, gives a long description of Tara, from which the following few passages have been translated:—
“Temor, the most beautiful of hills, Under which Erin is warlike.
The chief city of Cormac, the son of Art, Son of valiant Con of the Hundred Battles.
“Cormac in worth excelled,
Was a warrior, poet, and sage;
A true Brehon, of the Fenian men
He was a good friend and companion.
“Cormac conquered in fifty battles, And compiled the Psalter of Tara. In that Psalter is contained
The full substanceof history. ”
Irish.
After an account of the monarchs, the provincial kings, and their territories, the poem proceeds thus—
“In each province there are Seven score of chief fortresses.
It is known that Cormac, the king, Thrice made a visitation of Erin.
“He brought the hostages of every fortress,
Which he exhibited at Temor;
And the Mound of the Hostages, of pure hands,
Cormac on those hostages conferred.
“Let us likewise mention the House of the Heroes, Which was called the Bark of the Wain Women.
A strong fortress was the House of the Heroes, Which was entered by fourteen doors.
“Between the fortress and The Heroes' Well,
To the east of the road, is The Stone of the Fenians; Contiguous to the Rath of the Conrentions,
The Rath of the Synods of great victories.
“In this rath was held the Synod of Patrick, And the Synods of Brendan and of Ruadan, And afterwards the Synod of Adamnan.
-
“There is also the house of Muirise the famous, Who was the prime beauty of Erin.
The house is near the well of Neamhnach. Froin this habitation over Meath
Extend the houses of Temor.
“Temor, from which is named Temor of Bregia,
Was the mound of Tea, wife of the son of Milesius. Neamhnach, to the east, pours stream into the glen,
*
On which the first mill was erected
“Between the cairns the two youths
Cormac.
Desies And north
the Rath
Temor, south Crinna; the great hill
Colman, the brown-haired Damnonian. ”
Kineth O'Hartigan,
wrote poem Tara, contained the Book Ballymote, from which have been translated the following passages:—
“O, beauty, world deceitful
The agreeabledrinking feast hundredheroes; False are its attractions, numerous mention, Except the adoration the King all.
celebrated bard the tenth
century,
also
“Every law recorded has passed away,
Every right under the sun has beendestroyed, And Temor to-day though wilderness,
Was once the meeting place
“Fair was many-sided tower,
Where assembledheroesfamed story;
Many were the tribes which was inheritance, Though to-day but greengrassy land.
“It was famous fortress wisdom; was ennobled with warlike chiefs;
To viewed was splendid hill, During the time Cormac O'Cuinn.
heroes.
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296 ANNALS OF THE FOUR MASTERS, A. D. 1477.
The son of Anthony O'Moore was killed at | county), by the son of Pierce Butler, and by Art Ballydaithi (Ballydavy near Maryboro, Queen's O'Conor.
“When Cormac was in his grandeur, Brilliant and conspicuous was his course; No fortress was found equal to Temor, It was the secret of the road of life.
“Strong was the power of hosts
Of that king who obtained Temor;
It is better for us to record the many tribes And the numerous families of his household.
“Nine ramparts or rough strong trenches, With nine surrounding mounds,
With groves of fair trees,
And it was a strong and famous fortress.
“Enlightened was his train of bards,
Who kept their records in careful order,
And what they said was respected by the professors in
each art.
“The household of the hosts let us enumerate, Who were in the house of Temor of the tribes, This is the exact enumeration,
Fifty above a thousand of warriors.
“When Cormac resided at Temor,
His fame was heard by all the exalted, And a king like the son of Art Aenfear, There came not of the men of the world. ”
Tara Deserted. —The Hill of Tara is large, verdant, level at the
top, and extremely beautiful; and, though not very high, com
mands extensive and most magnificent prospects over the great
and fertile plains of Meath. Tara became deserted as a royal residence in the sixth century, and, as already observed, some
earthen ramparts and mounds are all that now remain of its ancient manificence. The circumstances which caused its abandonment by the kings were as follows:—Dermod, monarch of Ireland, who was called Mac Carroll, having taken prisoner and punished a brother relative of St. Ruadhan, who was abbot Lothra, now Lorrha, the county Tipperary, St. Ruadhan laid
“His great house of a thousand heroes, With tribes it was delightful,
A fair bright fortress of fine men; Three hundred feet was its measure.
“Its circuit was well arranged,
Nor was narrow by faulty construction, Nor too small for separate apartments,
Six times five cubits was its height.
“A habitation for king Erin,
which was distributed sparkling wine;
was fortress, rampart, and stronghold;
were three times fifty couches.
“There were fifty warriors with swords, Who were the guards this fortress,
Which truly was noble residence,
And there were two couches each apartment.
Tara; and after the death
no other king resided Tara;
by one the ancient bards
ing passage has been translated :—
“From the reign the brown-haired Dermod,
curse
A. D. 565,
“Grand was the host which attended there,
-
several of the kings were afterwards styled kings
weapons glittering with gold; And their -were -
Though
-
There were three times fifty opold apartments, And each apartment held fifty persons.
Tara, they did not reside there, but took their title from othe
il. . o *: o.
was law ordained by the king
Thatt hnesnhould first drink his onests
“And very great were his guests number,
subsequent
“Seven cubits exact measure,
Were the dimensions the fire-place, Before which the active attendants Lighted the brilliant lamps.
ancient residence the monarchs.
the monarchs, appears, resided Tailtean;
times some and mentioned Tailtean, A. D. 916.
“There were seven splendid chandeliers Of bright and beautiful appearance.
brass,
Niall race, when monarchs the fortress Aileach,
narch Ireland, resided
Ireland, had their chief residence Donegal and Brian Boru, when mo
his palace Kincora, Thomond,
that fair and sunny palace
Of feasts and ornamental goblets.
the banks the Shannon, near Killaloe,
the county Clare.
- - --- -- The southern Hy-: Niall race, who were kings
. . . -- ‘’. -
*. each festive drinking; Three hundred p
*:
artook
Fifty were noble and learned lawgivers company with the exalted upright prince.
. . .
Great
c people n-
very strong,
with rock
Fifty were festive pleasing companions,
and the rest common fortress
earthen ramparts; -and - -
Woo great
Danish king traditionally said have had his chief residence there.
1ng
To attend guards the warlike king.
warrior
s stan
aroun
“Three hundred cup-bearers handed around Three times fifty splendid goblets,
To each the numerous parties there, Which cups were gold silver all
Cemeteries the Pagan Kings—An account the great cemetery the Pagan kings Cruachan, Connaught, near Elphin, has been given the note South Connaught, and account sepulchral mounds, the burial places kings and war riors the Pagan times, will found the first part the note
Moy Liffey and Bregia. There were two great cemeteries Meath, one Tailtean, and the other Brugh-na-Boine; the latter place signifying the town fortress the Boyne supposed some have been situated near Trim, and by others near the place now called Stackallen, between Navan and Slane.
“Ornamented with pure and precious stones. Thirty hundred were entertained
By the son Art each day
- - - -
-
doors-
chief
the shields, near Mullingar,
or. i. Foi.
Son Fergus, son From the judgment There was king
Carroll, Ruadhan
Temor. ”
his house,
the monarch Dermod, and this circumstance
mentioned some verses, from which the follow
that Flann Sionna, monarch Ireland, died
Some the ancient monarchs resided the palace Cruachan,
Connaught; and some the kings Ulster, when monarchs,
resided Emania, now Armagh. The kings Ulster the Hy
Meath, had thei1r residence, called Dun-na-Sciath, signifying the fortress
the banks Lough Ainnin, now Lough Ennell, Westmeath, where Malachy II. , monarch
Ireland, died, A. D. 1022; and the kings
Meath also had for
. ress where they resided, situated high hill, about mile
t
from Castlepollard, and, within about two miles the Ben
Hill Fore. This fortress was
a
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celebrated work called the Psalter of Cashel, which full account will found page 204, the note Ormond. The monarch Cormac, whom account has been already given, was celebrated legislator; and the conventions held his palace Tara, the provincial kings are stated have sat the following order—the monarch himself sitting throne the middle the assembly hall, the king Ulster sitting his right
hand, the kings the two Munsters his left, the king Leinster front, and the king Connaught behind the throne the
ning the first century, and the stone did not resume tomed sound until the inauguration Con the Hundred the second century, he being legitimate monarch.
and his bas the
accus Battles, the beginning the sixth century Fergus Mac Earca, who was brother the then reigning monarch Ireland, Murtogh Mac Earca,
interior of the dome the Four Courts of Dublin. The conven tion Tara, called Feis Teamrach, from Feis, which signifies convention assembly, was ordained by Ollav Fola held
every third year the royal residence Tara, and was attended the provincial kings, princes, and chiefs—the Druids Pagan priests, the Brehons judges, and the bards the Pagan times;
and, after the introduction Christianity, the bishops, abbots, and superior clergy; and great numbers the people also attended
having become king the Irish colonies, settled Dalriada Albany, afterwards called Scotland, requested the Irish monarch
send over the Lia Fail
give security his throne, but O'Flaherty, his Ogygia,
used his inauguration, order
accordance with the old traditions; opinion, that the Stone Des tiny was not brought Albany Scotland until the ninth cen tury, when Aodh Finliath, monarch Ireland, sent his
those assemblies, which were held every third year, the month November. The ancient records and chronicles of the kingdom were ordered written and carefully preserved Tara Ollav Fola, and these formed the basis the ancient
father-in-law Kinneth Mac Alpin, who was crowned king Scotland. The Stone Destiny mentioned Hector Boetius, and other Scottish historians, and the following Irish verse res pecting quoted Keating and Charles O'Conor:—
“Cineadh Scuit, saoran fline, Mun budh breag haisdine, Mar fuighid Liagh Fail Dlighid flaitheas ghabhail. ”
thus rendered into Latin by Hector Boetius:— “Ni fallat fatum, Scoti, quocumquelocatum,
Invenient lapidem hunc, regnare tenentur ibidem. ” thus translated :—
“If fate's decrees not announced vain,
Where e'er this stone found the Scots shall reign. ”
Tara, which was brought the monarch Cormac, the Tara, and other records, was compiled, the latter end the ninth century, Cormac Mac Cullenan, archbishop Cashel and king Munster, the
REIGN OF EDWARD IV. 297
--
history Ireland, called the Psalter complete accuracy the reign
third century; and from the Psalter
!
A great wind happened on the night of the fes tival of St. John the Baptist, in this year, which destroyed an immense deal of stone and wooden
The Tuath De Danan kings and queens were buried chiefly at Cruachan in Connaught, and at Brugh-na-Boine, but some of them also at Tailtean; and the Firbolg kings and queens were buried, someof them at Cruachan, some at Brugh, and some at Tailtean. The Milesian kings and queens in the Pagan times, were also buried in thosethree great cemeteries,and, according to Dorban, an ancient poet of Connaught, there were fifty sepulchral mounds at each of the royal cemeteries of Cruachan, Tailtean, and Brugh, in each of which mounds were buried fifty kings, queens,warriors, and bards. Cormac, monarch of Ireland, is considered to have become a con vert to the Christian faith, and he gave directions that he should not be buried at Brugh-na-Boine with the Pagan kings, but at Ros-na-riogh, with his face turned towards the rising sun or the east, in reference to the birth-place of Christ; this place is now
known as Rosnaree, between Drogheda and Slane, in Meath. Amongst the celebrated persons buried at Tara were the monarch
Laoghaire, in the fifth century, who gave directions that his body should be placed upright in the sepulchral mound, with his spear
in his hand, and his face turned towards the south, as in defiance of his enemies the people of Leinster; and the head of the cele brated hero Cuchulain, chief of the Redbranch knights of Ulster, was buried at Tara, and a sepulchral mound raised to his memory.
buildings, of Cranoges (fortresses on lakes), and corn stacks.
This stone was considered the Scots the palladium their kingdom from ancient prophecy that the Scotic Milesian race would continue rule long was their possession, and was preserved with great care for many centuries Scotland, first the monastery St. Columkille, Iona the Hebrides, afterwards Dunstaffnage Argyleshire, the first royal seat the Scottish kings Irish race, and was removed from thence
the ninth century by Kinneth Mac Alpin, king Scotland, and conqueror the Picts, who placed Scone, near Perth, where was preserved the ancient abbey until the year 1296, when Edward king England, having overran Scotland, took away
the Stone Destiny from the cathedral Scone, carried off trophy victory, and placed under the coronation chair
Westminster Abbey, where still remains. sometimescalled by English writers Jacob's Stone, from some tradition that
part the stone called Jacob's Pillow Bethel, mentioned the Book Genesis, hence some have considered that was first brought Ireland the Danans from the land Canaan.
has been asserted some modern publications Irish antiquities, that the large stone standing uprighton one the mounds Tara the Stone Destiny, but this assertion altogether improbable, and opposed the statements Keating, O'Flaherty, Ware, Dr.
O'Conor, Charles O'Conor, and all other learned Irish antiquarians, The Stone of Destiny. —When the Tuath De Danan colony together with the accounts the Scottish historians, and
cameto Ireland, they brought with them, according to our ancient
probable that the huge stone standing the mound Tara, which six feet above the ground, well many feet under and immense weight, the stone mentioned by many the old Irish
writers, a remarkable stone called Lia-Fail, signifying the Stone
of Fate or of Destiny, and from this circumstance Ireland obtained
the name Inis Fail, or the Island of Destiny. This stone was also
called Cloch-na-Cineamhna, or the Stone of Fate. The Lia Fail the Fians Fenians, connected with the accounts some
was held in the highest veneration, and sitting on it the ancient monarchs of Ireland, both in the Pagan and Christian times, were for many ages inaugurated at Tara, and it is stated that whenever a legitimate king of the Milesian race was inaugurated, the stone emitted a peculiar sound, an effect produced, it is supposed, by somecontrivance of the Druids. In Dr. O'Conor's account of the Irish MSS. at Stowe, it is stated that the Lia Fail was at a remote period removed from the royal Rath at Tara, to the residence of the kings at Cruachan in Connaught, but ceased to emit usual soundcalled Ges, which signifies spell charm, from the time
was profaned Cuchulain, who resented its silence when his friendFiacha Fionnwasappointedmonarch Ireland thebegin
writers under the name Lia-na-bhFian, that the Stone the Fenian warriors.
The Conventions Tara. -The great conventions legislative assemblies Tara were instituted by the celebrated Ollamh Fodhla, king whose reign placed by our annalists and chro nologers about seven centuries before the Christian era. This Ollamh Fodhla was the Irian race, and was king Ulster, and monarch Ireland; and his name, pronounced Ollav Fola, sig nifies the Sage Ireland, derived from Ollamh, sage learned man, and Fodhla, which was one the ancient names Ireland. Ollav Fola celebrated ancient history sageand legislator, eminent for learning, wisdom, and excellent institutions;
historic fame has been recognised by placing his medallion relievo with those Moses, and other great legislators,
be is
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M
298 ANNALS OF THE FOUR MASTERS, A. D. 1478.
A. D. 1478.
O'Higgin, bishop of Mayo of the Saxons, died.
Thomas Duv O'Carbry, vicar of Aghalurcher Fermanagh), man wisdom and piety, died.
entered the port Ballyshannon, and this pesti lence spread through Fermanagh, Tirconnell, and throughout the province (of Ulster) general; Mac Ward, i. e. Geoffrey Tirconnell, died
and did much destruction throughout the entire province.
Mac Rithbeartaigh (Mac Raverty), Cioth ruadh, chief poet Maguire (of Fermanagh);
The earl succeeded him.
Richard, son
Kildare died, and his son Gerald
Edmond, son Richard Butler,
was killed Fingin Roe (Mac Gillpatrick) the
Ossorians, the son Fingin, the door the Teige Fionn O'Luinin, learned physician and
church Kilkenny. Cormac, the son Donogh Mac Carthy, was blinded his kinsmen, after being imprisoned them for some time.
Donogh, son Bryan Ballach O'Conor, and
Torlogh, son Torlogh Roe O'Conor, died.
The Gilla Duv, son Bryan, son O'Reilly, died.
Thomas, son Pierce Butler, was killed.
Thomas O'Concannan, lord Hy Diarmada (in Roscommon), was killed by his own nephew.
great plague was imported ship which
historian; O’Breslein, Teige, the son Owen,
chief Brehon Maguire; and O’Coffey, Mur togh Bacach, died.
Young Hugh Mac Mahon and his household made attack upon Bryan, the son Redmond Felim Mac Mahon, and they committed great depreda
tions on him, and took Bryan himself prisoner, while pursuit his plundered property.
Malachy, son Hugh Buighe Mac Geoghegan, lord Kinel Fiacha, was killed while asleep by two his own people, the castle Leathratha
archbishop Dublin Leinster, together with great numbers
other bishops, abbots, and clergy. the whole assembly there
were thirteen thousand horsemen, namely, six thousand Con naughtmen, under the O'Conors, Mac Dermotts, O'Kellys,
O'Dowds, and other princes and chiefs; four thousand the men Brefney, now the counties Cavan and Leitrim, with Tiarnan O'Rourke, prince West Brefney Leitrim, and O'Reilly, prince East Brefney Cavan; four thousand men with Donogh O'Carroll, prince Orgiall, from Louth, Monaghan, and Armagh, and with Mac Dunslevy O'Heochy, prince Ulidia,
the counties Down and Antrim two thousand men with Dermod O’Melaghlin, king Meath and one thousand with Reginald, lord the Danes Dublin; Donogh, the son Felan,
refractory spirit which princes.
princes, chiefs, Druids, Brehons, and bards, arranged due order. These triennial legislative assemblies Tara, which were the parliaments ancient Ireland, were held there for many centuries, and continued down about the middle the sixth century, the last convention the states Tara, according the annals Tigearmach, being held, A. D. 560, the reign the monarch Dermod Mac Carroll. Conventions the states legislative assemblies were also held the Hill Uisneach (situated few miles from Mullingar, Westmeath), which was celebrated seat of Druidism. These assemblies were convened the month of May, and, after the abandonment Tara, this was probably one
the chief places for legislative meetings; and may re marked, that great synod national convention bishops, clergy, chiefs, and people, was held Uisneach, Fiodh Mac Aengusa, A. D. 1111, according the Annals the Four Masters, which was attended Celsus, archbishop Armagh, and Maol muire O'Dunain, archbishop Cashel, together with fifty other bishops, three hundred priests, and three thousand persons the clerical order, and also Murtogh O'Brien, king Munster, and various princes and chiefs from different parts the kingdom, make laws and regulations both for clergy and people. the year 1152, great national synod council was convened
prince whose territory not mentioned, brought two thousand men. does not appear that those powerful northern princes, O'Neill and O'Donnell, who ruled over Tyrone, Derry, and Done gal, attended this assembly; and they probably did not acknow ledge the authority
Ceananus, Kells, Meath, which presided Cardinal John Paparo, legate Pope Eugene III. , having been sent Ire
land confer the pallium this synod was attended other clergy Ireland,
the four archbishops Ireland; and the archbishops, bishops, abbots, and great numbers. Great conventions
legislative assemblies, similar those Tara, were held ancient times the other provinces. The states Connaught assembled Cruachan, near Elphin the states Ulster Emania,
Armagh; the states Leinster Naas, Kildare; and the states Munster Cashel. The last great national convention mentioned Irish history was that the states Leath Cuinn,
Meath, Ulster and Connaught, convened Athboy, Meath, A. D. 1167, king Roderick O'Conor, make laws and regula
tions for the church and state which assembly, according
the Annals the Four Masters and other authorities, there
attended vast number the princes, chiefs, clergy, and people throwing the stone, bar, &c. , foot-ball, dancing, together with
Ulster, Connaught, and Meath, together with the Danes horse and chariot racing; and those assemblies were also remark Dublin, who were then under subjection king Roderick. able for the arrangement matrimonial alliances, match-mak Amongst the clergy who attended were Gelasius, archbishop Ar ing, and the ratification marriage contracts. remarkable magh, Cadhla O’Duffy, archbishop Tuam, and Laurence O'Toole, occurrence the assembly Tailtean, the ninth century,
parts Ireland, and are said games Greece, the practice strength and activity, such
have resembled the Olympic various athletic exercises, feats running, leaping, wrestling,
king Roderick O'Connor, actuated by that generally prevailed amongst the Irish
Tailtean, called Aonach Tailtean, from Aonach, which signifies large assembly fair, were held the
plains Tailtean, now Teltown, situated along the river Black
water, between Navan and Kells, Meath. Tailtean got its name from Tailte, daughter Maghmor, king Spain, and wife
Eochy, the last Firbolg king. Tailte was buried this place, and Lughaidh, surnamed Lamhfada, the Long-handed, one
the Tuath De Danan kings, having been his youth fostered and educated Tailte, he, honour the memory that queen,
instituted the assemblies Tailtean, which were held annually the beginning Autumn, and were continued for fifteen days; and said that from this Lughaidh, the First August, Lammas,
the Irish called La Lughnasa the present time. The assemblies Tailtean were attended by vast numbers from all
The Assemblies
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Abbeylaragh, in Longford), and they were burned (for their crime. -
Edmond, son of Conor Mac Rannall, died.
it to the son of Bryan O'Conor; MacWilliam Burke afterwards entered Moylurg, and spoiled the por tion of it which belonged to Roderick Mac Der
“Twelve
great there, habitations were
:-
“One hundred war-steeds were consumed the fortress, Together with the steeds our chief commander,
With their fair and brilliant coverings,
And their polished and gilded bridles.
“Three hundred hunting hounds were consumed, Which were deemed excessive loss;
The beautiful hounds Finn, the son Cumhal, By Garaidh the Rough, within this fortress.
“Three hundred treasure-chests were consumed, Which contained much silver and gold;
And also, stated with truth,
Three hundred goblets and three hundred cups. ”
The note Moy Liffey and Bregia will concluded the next number.
“When I banquetted in the halls of Finn, At each banquet there have I seen
A thousand costly goblets at the board,
And bound on their rims with golden wreaths.
Filled with the mighty battalions
Commandedby the son of the daughter of Teige, At fair Allen of the noble Fenians.
“Twelve constant fires flamed
In each of the princely habitations,
And sitting around by each of those fires Were an hundred of the Fenian heroes. ”
REIGN OF EDWARD IV. 209
“In the fortress were consumed the steeds And his two highly-ornamented chariots;
And great was the loss his noble mansion To Finn the Fenians, the king Allen.
Finn,
“In And
Two Two
were consumed hundred strong shields,
hundred pieces armour incomparable value;
hundred coats mail and two hundred swords, hundred breast-plates and two hundred helmets.
: !
William, son of John O'Ferrall, was killed with mott; Roderick proceeded to Croaghan to take
a blow of a pole by one of his own people. revenge for those acts on Conor Mac Dermott, A great plague raged throughout Ireland, of who was then the Mac Dermott, and an ally to which the baron of Delvin (Nugent), and Maurice Mac William, and he then besieged the Rock (of Airig, died. Loughkea), and he received a mechanical war Fachtna O'Ferrall was killed by the son of engine, which was sent to him from Fermanagh,
Edmond, son of Hoberd D'Alton. and by the cast of a dart from it the only son of Art, son of Colman O’Melaghlin, and Mac Mac Dermott was slain. The Rock was taken
Gauran, i. e. Cathal, the son of Donogh Ballagh, died.
The son of Fergal O'Gara, and Manus Mac
David, were killed by the tribe of Roderick Mac Dermott.
Edmond, son of Teige, son of Loghlin O’Hanley, was killed by his own tribe.
The castle of Sligo was taken by Mac William Burke from the guards of O'Donnell, and he gave
mentionedin the Four Masters as having taken place in A. D. 806, namely, that in consequenceof the violation of someof the Termon or church lands of the monastery of Tallaght, near Dublin, by the Hy Niall kings of Meath, the monks of Tallaght seized on the chariot horses of Aodh Oirdnidhe, monarch of Ireland, at the celebration of the games of Tailtean, and retained the horses until ample reparation was made to the monastery, and its lands restored, together with additional grants made by the king. These assemblies were held for many ages, but were frequently interrupted during the disastrous period of the Danish wars; they were renewed at intervals by various kings, and some of them are mentionedas late as the twelfth century; and it is stated that, in July A. D. 1126, the great assembly of Tailtean was revived, after it had been discontinued for a century; but it appears that the meetings of Tailtean were entirely discontinued after the English
invasion.
The Fortress of Fionn Mac Cumhaill at Allen. —An account of the celebrated hero, Fionn, the son of Cumhall, commander of the Fenian warriors in the third century, has been given at page 267, in the note on Moy Liffey, and he had his chief residence or fortress at Almhuin, now the Hill of Allen, in Kildare, and this fortress appears to have been of great extent, and surrounded with many other habitations, as the residence of the Fenian troops under his command ; and the place is highly celebrated in the
Ossianic poems, and other productions of the ancient bards; and from one of these, called Buille Oisin, the following passage has
been translated
through the means of that shot, and Roderick assumed the lordship of Moylurg, and expelled Conor.
An awful commotion arose throughout the plain Connaught, between Felim Fionn (O'Conor),
and O'Conor Don on the one side, and the sons Teige O'Conor, the sons Felim, and the sons
Conor Roe the other; the entire plain, both churches and country, was completely spoiled
The destruction the fortress Almhuin, which appears
was burned the third century champion named Garaidh,
son Morna, who was chief the Firbolg Damnonian war
riors Connaught, forms the subject one the Ossianic
poems, from which have been literally translated the following passages:-
“Mournful art thou me, ruined pile
Thou monument that records great disaster.
Deep beneath thee are heroes entombed; Their sad fate well remember.
“Mournful thy destruction me,
Thou memorablepile exalted appearance.
The Clanna Morna are laid low their monuments;
They werethe heroes combats,this one their mounds.