History and Antiquities

LIBRARY
UNIVERSITY Of
CALIFORNIA
SAN DIEGO
ppetenmpis
LI
UNI
Sfi
THE
HISTORY AND ANTIQUITIES

OF THE
COUNTY OF THE TOWN

OF
CARRICKFERGUS.
FROM THE
EARLIEST RECORDS TILL 1839.
ALSO,
A STATISTICAL
SURVEY OF SAID COUNTY.
McSKIMIN.
BvjSAMUEL
L
r
How many
foolish tales
and
idle
dreams,
Mere phantoms
of the brain, would we believe,

If History did not ope her useful page,
And sever truth from fiction
!
NEW
EDITION,
WITH NOTES AND APPENDIX.
By
K.
J.
M'CRUM,
F.R.S.A.
ALL RIGHT* RESERVED.
.'ifieltast
MUI.LAN & SON, JAMES CI.EEI.AND,

DAVIDSON & M'CORMACK.
PRINTED BY
DAVIDSON & M'CORMACK,

NORTH GATE WORKS,
BELFAST.
PREFACE TO NEW EDITION.
IN
submitting a new edition of my great-grandfather's work

no apology is needed. Since the first was
to the public,
published, 97 years ago, many changes have taken place in

the government of the people, new manners and customs have
arisen, and a new generation not acquainted with the history of
their town.
I have endeavoured to the best of my ability to bring the
history of the town, with the various changes and improvements
which have taken place, down to the present time. No record
has been kept since Dean Dobbs wrote the last in the Old Book
of Records, and my information has been gathered from State
Papers in the Linen Hall Library, various newspapers published

since 1839, old Directories, and many other sources, as noted.
No alteration, with the exception of a few words in brackets,
made
has been
in the text of the original work, neither has there
been any interference with the disposition of the notes. The

additional notes have been inserted in brackets, so that they may
be
at
once known.
Part
has been arranged into chapters, the ninth has been

in that portion the notes have not been placed in
I.
added, and
brackets, as I
am
solely responsible for both text
and
notes.
pages have been added to the text, as noted.

Part III. has been printed verbatim, with an introductory
In Part
II.
many
many additional pages.

Part IV. nothing has been
note, also
To
added
to text save
words in
brackets.
Appendix were many additions for

These have been placed in their proper
All the Appendixes have been reproduced and a new
order.
Appendix added, which will, I hope, prove interesting to present
In
my
great-grandfather's
text, also corrections.
and succeeding generations.

In conclusion, the work has been a labour of love, and
readers
have contributed
past,
my work
in
any way
to
if
keep on record the times that are
has not been in vain.
ELIZABETH
CARNMONEV, December, 1909.
2058142
J.
M'CRUM.
ORIGINAL PREFACE.
years have elapsed since the publication of the first
In the interval, the Author has been
edition of this Work.
NINETEEN
studiously engaged in collecting materials for the

which he has been so successful, that he is now
present,
in
enabled to
in a much more complete and enlarged

it to the public,
form than he ever expected it would have attained.
To render the work as perfect as possible, neither time,
new engravings of the
labour, nor expense has been spared
give
most remarkable objects described contribute to its embellishment, while its utility is considerably enhanced by the great
additional information that has been gleaned from rare and
The valuable Records of Carrickfergus,
unpublished sources.
County of Antrim, have been carefully

and Records contained in Public
together with private Libraries, and Manuscript Colhave not been neglected and, in several instances, the
as well as those of the
consulted.
Offices,
lections,
The
Inquisitions
as well as those of the living, have

been reluctantly but successfully explored, to procure additional
information.
repositories
of the dead,
He
is fully
apprised, however, of the unpopularity of his
works
of a similar nature have never met with much
as
subject,
encouragement here; yet, "with little assistance from the learned,

and without any patronage of the great," he lays his work before
the public, trusting that
and
interesting
it
will
be found to contain much new
matter to general readers, and not a
little
to
the lovers of historical inquiry, local topography, or antiquarian

research.
CONTENTS.
PART
I.
CHAPTER
I.
CONTEXTS by italics.
SECOND CENTURY 1318.
14.
Pages i
NAME DALAKADIA NAME OF BAY KING
EARLY
SETTLERS EARLY
FERGUS DUNS MONKSTOWN NOTE JOHN DE COURCY ESTABLISHES A COLONY NAMES OF COLONISTS NOTE DE LACYS AT
CARRICKI ERGUS ARRIVAL OF KING JOHN, JULY, 1210 NOTE DE
LACYS PARDONED GARRISON OF THE ENGLISH ARRIVAL OF EDWARD
BRUCE. MAY, 1315 SIEGE OF CARRICKFKRGU.S ARRIVAL OF KING
ROBERT BRUCE DEATH OF EDWARD BRUCE NOTES.
Additions by Editor arc signified in
CHAPTER
II.
1526.
'3331574DEATH OF WILLIAM DE BURGO THE FORDS XOTE ^LAXDEBOY
LORD DEPUTY DARCY ARRIVES FAMILY OF DE BURGO ASSUME
IRISH NAMES SCOTS BURN THE TOWN SAVAGES KILLED BY MAC
(iii.MORE
ENGLISH SETTLERS PAY "BLACK RENT" JOHN BAYNE,
MAYOR STAXTON.
MONASTERY SCOTS
GOVERNOR FRANCI SCAN
DEFEATED NOTE ARRIVAL OF EAR'L OF ESSEX F.SSEN STREET
GOVERNOR'S PLACE NOTE CHIEFS MAKE SUBMISSION TO THE
KARL OF ESSEN SIR BRIAN M'PIIELLIME (O'NEILL) AND ROWRY
OGG M'OuiLLiN EXECUTED NOTE re the Assassination.
CHAPTER
III.
2735.
15751636.
Tows ATTACKED BY SORLEBUOYE MACDOXXEI.L ARRIVAL OF SIR HENRY
SYDNEY STATE OF THE COUNTRY QUEEN ELIZABETH TO WALL THE
TOWN
CAPTAIN
LOOVYD PILLORIED IN THE MARKET-PLACE
TURLOUGH LYNOGH O'NEILL REQUESTS TO BE MADE A FREEMAN
BRECHON LAWS WINE SOLD AT NINE Cow SKINS THE HOGSHEAD
Two MERCHANTS PLUNDERED MARKETS TROOPS MUTINIED REDIIAI.L
NOTE LETTER FROM SIR ARTHUR CHICHESTER TO LORD
MOUXTJOY NOTE CON" O'NEILL CONFINED IN THE CASTLE His
ESCAPE NOTE THE
EAGLE WING," BUILT AT GROOMSPORT,
SAILS FROM THE BAY
NOTE.
CHAPTER
IV.
36 47.
16391641-2.
CONDUCT OF CHARLES I. OATH AGAINST THE COVENANT lilack Oath
TRUEMAN HANGED AND QUARTERED EARL OF ANTRIM His REQUEST
REGARDING THE (iooos AND LANDS OF THE COVENANTERS 8,000
ROMAN CATHOLIC TROOPS AT CARRICKFFRGUS TREATY WITH THE
SCOTS REBELLION OF 1(141 CAPTAIN RODGER LYNDEX DEFENDS THE
GARRISON FRIAR M'DoNNKU. CONFINED ARRIVAL OF ARMS AND
AMMUNITION PLACES OF REFUGE NUMBER OF PROTESTANTS SLAIN
IN
THE .REBELLION NOTE MASSACRE OF ISLANDMAGEE STYLES,
NEW AND OLD MEMORABLE MASSACRES OF COUNTY ANTRIM
"
POLITICIAN'S CATECHISM," THE BASIS OF ALL THE MISREPRESENTATIONS THAT HAVE BEEN PUBLISHED ON THE PRETENDED MASSACRE
DIFFERENT ACCOUNTS OF THE MASSACRE NOTE.
X.
CHAPTER
V.
16421649.
4859SCOTTISH TROOPS LAND AND TAKE CHARGE OF THE TOWN AND
CASTLE GENERAL ROBERT MUNROE VISITS EAUL OF ANTRIM AT
DUNLUCE CASTLE, WHO is SEIZED AND CONFINED IN CARRICKFERGUS
CASTLE MUTINY OF THE SOLDIERS MEETING OF THE FIRST
PRESBYTERY NOTE EARL OF LEVEN LANDS WITH TROOPS
ESCAPE OF THE EARL OF ANTRIM RETURN OF THE EARL OF ANTRIM
AGAIN CONFINED His SECOND ESCAPE FOUR SCOTCH MINISTERS
ARRIVE PROVISIONS FOR THE ARMY Money for the Scotch Army
SACRAMENT ADMINISTERED
IN
ST.
NICHOLAS'S
CHURCH THE
COVENANT TAKEN PROCLAMATION AGAINST MAYOR FINED NOTE
GENERAL MUNRO AT
CARRICKFERGUS SURPRISES
BELFAST
MARQUIS OF ARGYLE ARRIVES ENGLISH TROOPS ARRIVE IN THE
BAY SCOTCH TROOPS DEPART TOWN BETRAYED TO GENERAL MONK
FOR THE COMMONWEALTH GENERAL MONK REWARDED NOTE
MUNRO ASKED TO TAKE THE COVENANT NOTE LETTER TO THE
LORD OF ARDS His ANSWER GARRISON SURRENDERED ARTICLES
FOR THE SURRENDER OF THE TOWN AND CASTLE VENABLES
APPOINTED GOVERNOR.
CHAPTER
1650
VI.
60
1689.
71.
MINISTERS OPPOSE THE COMMONWEALTH CONFINED IN CASTLE NOTE

THE ENGAGEMENT QUAKERS ARRIVE NOTE MUTINY OF THE
GARRISON THEIR SURRENDER COMPANY OF MILITIA RAISED PLAN
TO SURPRISE THE TOWN 1,000 MEN ARRIVE NOTE DUKE
SCHOMBERG NOTE SlEGE OF CARRICKFERGUS BY DUKE SCHOMBERG
BATTERY AT WINDMILL HILL DIFFERENT ACCOUNTS OF THE SIEGE
SURRENDER OF THE GARRISON ARTICLES OF AGREEMENT NOTE
IN THE RECORDS OF RICHARD DOBBS, MAYOR.
CHAPTER
VII.
7292.
16901775.
ARRIVAL OF KING WILLIAM RECEIVED BY WILLIAM CLARK, OF GRANGE
DEPARTURE FOR BELFAST NOTE ARRIVAL OF THE DUKE OF
ORMOND MADE FREE OF THE TOWN PERSONS TRIED FOR WITCHCRAFT NOTE PRISONERS TO STAND IN THE PILLORY WHIGS AND
TORIES ADDRESS FROM THE GRAND JURY TO QUEEN ANNE SECOND
ADDRESS TO QUEEN ANNE HER DEATH DRY SUMMER EXECUTION
OF MATHEW MOILER His GREAT HEIGHT WOOD'S HALFPENCE
NOTE THE BLACK FROST THE ROT YEAR ANOTHER COMPANY
OF MILITIA FORMED BARLEY MEAL SUMMER TOWN BESIEGED BY
COMMODORE THUROT .VOTES PUBLIC THANKS TO COLONEL
JENNINGS AND LIEUTENANT BENJAMIN HALL HEARTS OF STEEL
TORNADO.
CHAPTER
17781838.
ARRIVAL OF PAUL JONES
VIII.
93
Io6
His DEATH NOTE DUKE OF RUTLAND

ARRIVES Is PRESENTED WITH THE FREEDOM OF THE TOWN
WILLIAM KIRK KNIGHTED UNITED IRISHMEN TRIAL OF WILLIAM
ORR NOTE PRISON SHIP AT GARMOYLE STATE OF THE TOWN
THE COURT7TH JUNE, 1798 THE REBELLION COURT-MARTIAL IN
HOUSE TROOPS ARRIVE MEETING IN THE TOWN HALL AGAINST
THE UNION WITH GREAT BRITAIN ORDER ISSUED BY GENERAL
NUGENT ARMS GIVEN UP Trial of the Carnmoney Witch
HOSPITAL
SNOWSTORM FEVER
1810 GREAT
1808,
Assizes,
ESTABLISHED TOWN AND QUARTERS NUMBERED .VOTES King
XI.
George's Visit
Procession of
Formation of the Royal Irish Constabulary
First
Orangemen Catholic Emancipation Bill Passed

ir>//tam IV. Proclaimed King STORE KEEPER AND ARMOURER OK
THE CASTLE DISCHARGED BRANCH OF NORTHERN BANK OPENED
NEW MARKET NEW ROAD FROM BELFAST OPENED GREAT STORM
MR. DANIEL O'CONNELL'S BILL TO DISFRANCHISE THE BOROUGH.
CHAPTER
18391874.
IX.
107117.
This chapter and notes are additions to original work.

THE " BIG WIND " MUNICIPAL CORPORATION ACT ADDRESS TO QUEENVICTORIA BICENTENARY YEAR OF PRESBYTERIANISM DR. COOKE
M' COMB'S PRESBYTERIAN ALMANAC FIRST MUNICIPAL COMMISSIONERS
NEW JAIL ON CRUMLIN ROAD, BELFAST FAILURE OF THE POTATO
CROP FIRST SOD OF RAILWAY TURNED JUDGE ATTENDS SERVICE
IN ST. NICHOLAS'S CHURCH
RAILWAY OPENED TO CARRICKFERGUS
QUEEN VICTORIA VISITS BELFAST GALLANT DEED OF CAPTAIN
M'FERRAN ROCK SALT DISCOVERED, AND COAL VISIT OF BRITISH
ASSOCIATION OUTBREAK OF CHOLERA TOWN IMPROVEMENTS ACT
PASSED CASTLE MADE HEADQUARTERS OF MILITIA GOVERNMENT
RENT THE COURT-HOUSE FOUNDATION STONE OF JOYMOUNT
PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH LAID OPENED FOR PUBLIC WORSHIP BY DR.
COOKE TOWN FIRST LIGHTED BY GAS SALE OF COMMONABLE
LANDS PEACE AT THE CRIMEA CELEBRATED REVIVAL YEAR SHIP
" DOROTHEA WRIGHT " LAUNCHED
LARNE AND STRANRAER SERVICE
BEGAN FIRST REGATTA AMATEUR ROWING CLUB ESTABLISHED
REFORM BILL PASSED WATER INTERESTS SOLD WM. JOHNSTON,
M. R. DAL\VAY ELECTED SHIELS INSTITUTION.
ESQ., M.P.
1875
1899.
IJ 8
129.
GREAT COMMONS VISIT OF CANADIAN ORANGEMEN FOUNDATION STONE

OF WOODBURN ORANGE HALL LAID COMMONS LET FlRST ISSUE
OF THE " CARRICKFERGUS ADVERTISER " THE " CARRICKFERGUS
FREEMAN " SIR STAFFORD NORTHCOTE'S VISIT " WOMEN'S SUFFRAGE " VISIT OF THE PRINCE AND PRINCESS OF WALES (NOW
KING AND QUEEN) OPENING OF HARBOUR FIRST SPIKE OF THS
HARBOUR JUNCTION RAILWAY CAMBRIDGE'S GUNPOWDER MAGAZINE
DEFEAT OF HOME RULE BILL ADDRESS FROM THE MUNICIPAL
PROCESSION
VICTORIA ORANGE
COMMISSIONERS
TO
QUEEN
MEETING OF THE GRAND ORANGE COUNCIL OF THE WORLD DEAN
SEAVER VISIT OF LORD WOLSELEY SURPRISE VISIT OF DISGUISED
BOATS TO THE LOUGH CYCLONE ADDRESS TO THE MARQUIS OF
DOWNSHIRE WORKING MEN'S INSTITUTE FORMED LORD SALISBURY
BILL TO LEVY RATES PASSED FOUNDATION STONE OF EDENORANGE HALL LAID FIRE IN JOYMOUNT BLEACH WORKS
FOUNDATION STONE OF KNOCKAGH ORANGE HALL LAID VISIT OF
THE ROYAL SOCIETY OF ANTIQUARIES CLIPPERSTOWN RECREATIONGROUNDS OPENED VISIT OF LORD ROBERTS FOUNDATION STONES
OF NEW MASONIC HALL LAID HISTORY OF FREEMASONRY IN
CARRICKFERGUS NEW LIFEBOAT YACHT BUILDING THE RECHABITE
ORDER NURSING ASSOCIATION.
1900
1909.
131
139-
URBAN DISTRICT COUNCIL ELECTION OF COUNTY COUNCILLORS

LAST HALF-YEARLY SESSIONS FINAL COMMISSION OF ASSIZE
BANQUET IN TOWN HALL ADDRESS TO TIIF. EARL OF SHAFTESBURY
MEN LEAVE FOR THE BOER WAR IN SOUTH" AFRICA PRESENTATION TO
" CARLTON HOUSE
BOUGHT BY COL. CRAIG
SIR GEORGE WHITE
FOR Y.M.C. A. MEETINGS IN SUPPORT OF Cor.. M'CALMONT AND
FIRST
XII.
KING-KERR DKATM OF OUEEN VICTORIA CURFEW Biir.i.

HEADQUARTERS OF THE Rov.u. |R~ISII CONSTABULARY TRANSFERRED TO
LARNE VISIT OF THE DUKE OF CONNAUGIIT S.S. " \YIIITEABBEY "
LOST GAELIC -.LEAGUE ESTABLISHED ORANGE HALL IN LAXCASTERIAN
STREET T. \Y. RUSSELL, M.P., ADDRESSES A MEETING PEACE INSOUTH AFRICA CELEBRATED CORONATION CELEBRATIONS POSTPONED
FIRE AT WOODBURN WEAVING FACTORY PRESENTATION OF FIRE
ENGINE BY COL. CRAIG WALKING BOOM VISIT OF KING AND
OUEEN TO BELFAST URBAN COUNCIL PRESENT AN ADDRESS NEW
VICTORIA CEMETERY OPENED LAVEKIY'S BRICK \\'ORKS SECOND
VISIT OF ROYAL SOCIETY OF ANTKJUARIES VISIT OF LORD CIRENFEI.L
Miss RENTOUI.'S LECTURE TECHNICAL SCHOOL OPENED TRAGEDY
IN THE OLD COURT-HOUSE
LITERARY AND SCIENTIFIC SOCIETY OF
THE UNION HALL UNION HALL AND MUSEUM BURNT OPENING OF
NEW YOUNG MEN'S CHRISTIAN ASSOCIATION HALF. HY COL. CRAIG
HISTORY OF THE ASSOCIATION IN CARRICKFERGUS STRIKE IN BELFAST
FIRST TOWN COURT OPENED EMPIRE DAY.
DK.
PART
II.
140-163.
ANCIENT STATE OF CARRICKFERGUS, 1550 CHURCH OF ST. NICHOLAS
GREAT PATRICK ANCIENT CASTLES WYROL TOWER OR PRISON
THE " PALACE " TOWN \\"ALLED wrin SODS AGENTS TO THE
QUEEN NOTE Petition TOWN WALLED .VOTE GATES NOTE
CASTLE WORRAIGH THE STOCKS NAMES OF TENANTS CarrickO'N'eill's Castle
CUSTOM HOUSE
fergus Gaol Ke moved, 182?
CUSTOMS NAMES OF FARI.Y SETTLERS HOUSES BUILT IN THE
KNGI.ISII
MANNER DAVYS' CASTLE SIR ARTHUR CHICHESTER
" \()TK DIFI ERF.NT ACCOUNTS OF THE
BUILDING OF " JOYMOUNT
TOWN AND CASTLE THE QUAY ENGLISH TENANTS OF THE
CORPORATION NOTE -S.\i.K OF THE CUSTOMS TO THE CROWN
NOTE AMOUNT OF CUSTOMS NOTE IN THE RECORDS CHURCH
BELL RECAST, 1671-2 Custom Officer Withdrawn FRANCISCANMONASTERY HUGH MACGILMORE SLAIN NOTE PALACE COUNIY
ANTRIM JAIL BUILT ON THIS SITE NOTE.
163210.
PRIORY OF \\"OODIU;RN HOSPITAL OF ST. BRIDGET NOTE BRIDE-WELL

NOTES MILITARY FORCE DESCRIPTION OF TOWN NAMES OF
COURT-HOUSE JAIL CARRICKFERGUS
THE STREETS CENSUS, 1X2
New Appendix) Population, Area <nnl Number of
JAIL (Sec
Houses, ;$.//, u)oi NOTICES re THE REMOVAL OF COURT OF
NICHOLAS' CHURCH
MARKET
HOUSE NOTE ST.
ASSI/.ES
AND
TABLETS.
PASSAGE NOTES MONUMENTS
UNDERGROUND
NOTES GARDNER MONUMENT NOTE, PAGES 187-103
179-180
Text
THE
Class
Windows
in
and
Stained
Monuments, Tahlets.
CHICIIESTER MONUMENT NO'I'E re the Cliichesler 1'attlt NOTE
NOTICES OF EVENTS Additional Notices in Text, 204-210.
i
METHODIST
CHAPEL
NOTICES
NOTE
NORTH
S-IREET
210238.
CHURCH
PRESBVI'ERIAN
I'nitarian
Church Joymmint Presbyterian Church
to
Church CASTLE Alterations
Church Independent
Draw-well CONSTABLES OF THE CASTLE NOTE Officers
Castle
in
Charge GOVERNORS NOTE ADDITIONAL NOTICES. 225-227
THE
CASTLE NOTE SEALS NOTE CUSTOM
OF
FOUNDING
FREE SCHOOLS
HARBOUR
SURVEYORS
HOUSE
Coastguards
NOTE SOCIETIES NOTE CHARITIES Shiels Char liable Institullaptist
tion
Legacies.
PART
III.
241248.
COUNT*
CORPORATE
.VOTE
Municipal
Commissioner
and
I'rbait
XOTE
Councillors ST. NICHOLAS

RECTORS Rectory
re Rectors
Additional Xotices, 2 \~ PRESISYTEKIAX CLERGYMEN
XOTICES in
Text. 252-25; COVENANTERS
.\OTE ROMAN CATHOLIC CI.ERGY.MKX
XOTICES in Text, 258-2(10 CHARTER MAYORS ALDERMEN
RECORDERS SIIKRII s To\vx CLERK. COXONEKS S \VORUHEAKEK
(lUH.D or MERCHANTS
MAYOR'S ROUE S \VORD AND MAC i:
i
XOTE
XOTE
Baiting
of
MAYOR'S
FEAST
Bulls
XOTICES
Wean
Harbour Masters TREASURERS

MENT FREEMEN ADMISSION
OF
Additional
S-îft
SALARY 01
MAYOR
and Towi Clerks
BURGESSES TO PARLIA-
Coroners
re
XOTE
FREEMEN
Samuel
M'Skimin
Xotices in Text, 282-28}.
PART
IV.
287-376.
OXVXER OK THE DISTRICT PRIOR TO THE ('OXO.UEST BY THE ENGLISH
BOUNDARIES CROSSMARY, and Landlords RIDING THE FRAXCIIISE
RENT XOTE DIVISION OF LANDS COMMONS LANDS S LI EVE-TRUE
KNOCKAGII TROOPER LAND Son. BASALT XOTE re Bauxite
Coal PEAT XOTE Salt Defences of Ji el fast Lough COPELAND
BRHVC.S
ISLANDS THE
SANDIUNK XOTE LOUGH
MOURN E
M.EXS XOTES
NOTELiGNACANOTBWooBBUUi AND
ORLAND AND SIT.LAIOHEK COUNTRY SKATS XOTE HAMLETS
Valuation
AVu' I\oads XOTE CESS AND TAXES
Lands
of
(
XOTE CROPS XOTE

OF
CHEESE CENSUS TAHLES
Inhabitants
SCHOOLS XOTE Old
TRADES POPULATION',
7901
Dead SOCIETIES XOTE VOLUNTEERS OLD CUSTOMS WOOI.I.EX
MANUFACTURE LINEN AND COTTON SI-INNING DISTILLERIES TAXYARDS MARKET Bank and XOTE Post Office Midland Railivay
OR
FORTIIS
COACHES Fishery Oysters XOTE MOUNDS
Cairns CAVES ANCIENT CASTLES WEAPONS Coining and Coins
XOTES TOKENS Key of the Irish Gate.
XOTEKilroot
.\[acliines
\\"AC.ES
Agricultural
PAID
Society
XOTE
XIV.
Illustrations.
Those marked with a
*South view of the
star are reproduced
Town and
Castle,
from the old
plates.
showing Custom House.

PAGE.
FRONTISPIECE
The Common
SAMUEL McSuiMiN AND E. J. M'CRUM.

Seal of Carrickfergus, from an old wood-cut
North Gate, Carrickfergus, photo, by A. R. Hogg ...

Plan of Belfast Lough, showing French ships of war lying
...
...
Kilroot
High Street and the County
A. R. Hogg
...
...
in
West
Street
off
...
...
...
...
...
...
121
...
...
...
140
...
...
...
150
...
...
...
*The Chichester Monument
...
...
...
Interior of St. Nicholas' Church
Norman Columns in St. Nicholas' Church, drawings by
W. Carey
...
of the Castle
...
...
from the West Pier
...
Plan, 1776
*
Map of the County Palatine
Chart of Belfast Lough, 1690
The Old Gallows

*Ruins
...
...
208
...
...
214
216
228
228
...
...
...
...
230
...
231
...
238
243
250
254
264
286
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
294
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
311
319
Cloughnacarty (Castle Lugg), from
an old wood-cut
...
...
...
...
Duncrue, with the ruins of the Church of Killyann
...
...
Key of the Irish or West Gate ...
J.
...
"The Three Sisters "
of the Castle of
...
155
150
178
184
196
205
...
Castle,
Ground
...
154,
...
...
...
showing West Tower
Norman Window in East Tower, Carrickfergus Castle
...
Aperture in Castle, from an old wood-cut
Seal of the Port and Customs
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
Mayor's Seal
Ancient drawing of the town of Carrickfergus, 1612
West View of St. Nicholas' Church, photo, by A. R. Hogg
Interior of St. Nicholas' Church, showing Sepulchre Tomb
North Street Presbyterian Church ...
...
...
Sword and Mace, drawing by J. W. Carey
...
of
88
...
..'.
Joymount, from drawing in British Museum (J. \V. Carey),

...
...
...
...
...
between
...
...
...
...
"*Court-House and Jail of Carrickfergus
...
...
...
*Old drawing of St. Nicholas' Church
...
The Gardner Monument, photo, by A. R. Hogg ...
View
View
35
92
...
Antrim Court-house, photo by
Plan of Carrickfergus, taken 1550
*View
...
...
...
...
...
371
373
376
XV.
&cfcnowle&0ment0.
My
thanks are due to Sir James Henderson,
best
Bart.,
M.A.,
the Governors of the Linen

B.L., and H. Trevor Henderson, Esq.
Hall Library, Belfast
James Bell, Esq., Carrickfergus and James
Boyd, Esq., Town Clerk, Carrickfergus, for the use of papers and
;
books.
To
Brereton and
Dr.
J.
C.
Pinkerton,
Church
Esq.,
Rev.
Belfast,
for
many
W.
T. Latimer, B.A.,
for several of the notes of the Presbyterian Churches
and to Robert
"
Birds and
Patterson, Esq., F.L.S., .M.R.I. A., for the notes of the
Fishes."
of the notices of St. Nicholas'
to
Thanks to the following for the use of photographs, maps, blocks,

and drawings R. M. Young, Esq., B.A., J.P. Editor of the Ulster
Journal of Archccology, for block of Norman window; J. W.
Richard M'Giffin, Esq.,
A. R. Hogg, Esq.
James
Carey, Esq.
James Bell, Esq. and James Weatherup, Esq., CarrickBoyd, Esq.
:
fergus.
XVI.
TO THE READER.
This
First
is
Work
in the
and Present
is
Four Parts, or
divided into
manner of Annals
the
The
Sections.
Second relates
to the
Ancient
Third treats of its Corporate

Fourth of its Trade, Customs, Statistics,
Stale of the District; thf
Origin and Privileges:

and Antiquities.
the
ERRATA.
" fas " read "
for."
"
"
from bottom, for " is
read
was."
211, seventeenth line from bottom, for "is" read "was."
211, third line from bottom, "installed," not "ordained."
- 232, eleventh line from bottom, " Stevenson," not "
Stephen-
Pnê
4.
fifth
line,
for
168, fourth line
son."
352,
fifth
line,
for
" are " read " were."
371, foot note, read "almost all waters."
372, eleventh line from bottom,
"
" Bruch."
Bruce," not
HISTORY,
&c.,
OF CARRICKFERGUS.
PART
I.
CHAPTER
I.
ancient accounts of Carrickfergus present

legends, being involved in at
little
THEcommon
but
least
traditionary
share of that obscurity, which appears inseparable from our national history.
It is, however, believed to have
been early inhabited; and an eminent author even supposes it
have been the first place in this kingdom peopled by the

from North Britain, 1 near three centuries before the
nativity of Christ, and before the Fir-Bolgs, or Belgae (another
branch of the Scythian nation), are said to have arrived in this
to
Celtes
island
from South
Camden
peopled by Britons
is
explicit, that
Britain.
likewise
;
and Spenser,
Scythians were the
kingdom, and confirms

customs and manners.
this
it
was
View of
Ireland
that
affirms
in
first
his
"
settlers in the
originally
Ireland."
north of
by an examination of
their
The assertions of these historians receive some support

from the proximity of the western parts of Britain to the
northern parts of this island, the high land of which could be
easily discerned on a clear day ; and when we consider the
imperfect state of navigation in the early ages, in boats made
of twisted willows and the skins of animals, these assertions
are farther confirmed.
is
That such were anciently the common modes of conveyance,

evident from the works of several learned authors.
Caesar
ordered his soldiers

1
Petty 's
R.I. A., vol.
1
1
Political
to
make such
Anatomy.
i.
Ledwich's Antiquities.
O'Connor's Dissertations.
boats
Macpherson's
as
he had seen
Dissertations.
in
Tran.
the
Britain,
keels
of light timber, the other parts of osiers,

Lucan, the Roman poet, who flourished
covered with hides. 1
A.D. 65, mentions the like boats as being used by the Britons;
and Solinus Polyhistor, who flourished about the same time,
"
also says,
the sea between Britain and Ireland is unquiet
and tempestuous, and yet they sailed over it in wicker boats,
encompassed with a swelling covering of ox hides/'
To a people who possessed such slender means for a
voyage, a short passage must have been an important object,
and equally so a commodious landing-place, which it is
probable this bay presented in a greater degree than any part
of the adjacent coast; and perhaps, this place at that time,
from the wind, or some other cause, might have presented fewer
obstacles to the landing of such navigators, than any part of
the circumjacent shore.
Concerning the first
reached us
settlers nothing has
followed the same roving habits as the other
doubtless they
Scythian tribes, living by their flocks, in woods and caves,

without any fixed residence
but until about the beginning of
:
the second century,
we have no document
that notices this place,
name of Dunsobarky.
one of the oldest maps of this kingdom, annexed to
"
O'Connor's Dissertations," entitled,
Scotia Antiqua, or a
when we
find
it
first
distinguished by the
In
"
of
map
Ireland
geographer,"
is
it
agreeable
laid
to
down by
the
time
of
the above name.
Ptolemy,
the
Also, in a
"
Seward's Hibernian Gazetteer," called, "A map

of Ireland previous to the i3th century," it is laid down by
the same name, and at the same place, as in that of the second
2
3
century ; and in both placed in Dalaradia, an ancient division
of the county Antrim, the people of which were commonly
map
affixed to
called
1
Dalaradians, from the country, but by foreign writers
Ccesar's Commentaries.
The general inaccuracy of those maps place it opposite to the Mull

of Cantyre, an error which seems to have been continued till lately.
Peter Heylin, a geographer, who wrote so lately as 1640, describes it by
"
the name of
Rock-Fergus." and adds, that it is opposite to Cantyre.
In a map of the county Antrim, lately engraved for a physician of
Belfast, possessed of much antiquarian knowledge, in which the ancient
names of places are given, it is laid down in its proper place,, by the
name of Dun-sobarce. In a map of ancient Ireland, annexed to the
"Chronicles of Eri," edited by Roger O'Connor, Esq., Carrickfergus
is laid down in its proper place by the name of Ditn-sobhairee.
This name is said to have been taken from a chief called Rhwda.
and Dal, a part or portion and comprehended the S. and S.E. parts of
Ware's Antiquities.
the county Antrim.
:!
Scots,
or
Scuits,
name denoting
their
Scythian or
Celtic
origin.
The above name appears to be a compound of two words

purely Celtic; the dun, din, dune, or don, primarily signifying
a mount, hill, high ground, or insulated rock, 1 and sobhar, or
sobarky, strong, powerful, or the like; which countenances the
former account that it was first inhabited by a Celtic people;
and the language of a people is generally the best criterion of
their origin.
This name
is
believed to have related merely to the insulated
rock on which the present castle stands
an opinion that is in
;
some measure strengthened by its not being noticed by Ptolemy,
who has mentioned the bay of Carrickfergus by the name of
Vinderius; as he
this
is
least
at
pretty
correct
its
is
noting maritime towns,

indeed is easily
which
proves
obscurity
accounted for, by referring to the manners of the Celtes, who
were literally roving barbarians ; hence we conclude that the
ancient
that
name was
there
retained
till
the arrival of the English,
and
were no buildings here deserving the name of a
town, prior to their time.
From the settlement of the English we find this place

called Crag-fergus, Carig-fergus. Carreg-fergus, Karreg-fergus,
Rock-fergus, Knock-fergus, and Carrickfergus ; the former part
of which seems derived from the Welsh, and
signifies
a rock
or stone; carrig or kairrig in the Irish language has also the

same meaning; but as many of those employed by Henry II.,
"
were Welshmen, who gave
in the conquest of the kingdom,
2
Welsh names to places," it is in all likelihood derived from the
former language.
Besides, it is highly improbable that an
English colony, settled by the right of conquest, would give a

of the
to any settlement of theirs in the language
name
conquered country.
The latter part of this name is evidently taken from the

account of a king called Fergus, who is said to have been lost
3
in a storm, near this place, 320 or 330 years before Christ.
Tradition says he was the first king of Scotland ; but as the
name of Scotland, as applied to that country, was unknown
Hence the names of many of our mounts

Gent. Mag., Vol. XCII.
both here and in neighbouring parishes, as Dun-eru, the
blood
Dunainoey, i.e.. Dun a niagh, the fortress of the
Dunathrry. the middle fortress, &c.
plain
-Hanmer's Chronicle.
3
Hanmer's Chronicle.
1
and
raths,
fortress of
;
for
upwards of a thousand years
the supposition
of his being a Scottish prince is doubtless incorrect.
We are
"
also informed that he was an Irish chief
famous for his skill
in blasoning
after Christ.
of armes.'' 2
Having shown as fas as possible who the primitive settlers

were, also the ancient names of the place, we proceed to the
remarkable events connected with its general history.
to
History and tradition are for some time equally silent as

For,
any event tending to illustrate our present inquiries.
if
we except
the romantic tales concerning Fin
Eryn and Fin
Mac
Coylle, alias, Mac Comhal, two famous chiefs who are

said to have flourished about the latter part of the third century,
and their descendants in the fourth (one of whom, Sperenagh
3
said to have governed this place),

we find nothing
worthy of notice till A.D. 697, when this part of Ireland was
invaded by the Cruthne, or island Picts, in conjunction with
Claw,
the
is
British
On
Picts.
this occasion
a desperate battle was

fell Aodh, or
fought at Lemnha, near Carrickfergus, in which

4
Hugh, king of Dalrieda, also Conquar Mac Echa
chief
commander of
We
Mac Maldwin,
the Picts. 5
are not informed as to the result of this engagement
but history mentions that
Aodh was succeeded by one Duncha
1
Pinkerton's Enquiry into the early
Ussher, Prim., page 734.
History of Scotland.
2
Campion's History of Ireland. Tradition says, that the cause of
Fergus* coming hither \vas to drink of the water of thn well, now within
the tower of this castle, for the cure of leprosy that he was lost during
a storm, off the rock on which the castle now stands, and his body,
being found on the beach, was interred at Monkstown, alias Monksland,
about three miles west of the town of Carrickfegrus, where is a buryingplace, and ruins of a small chapel.
[* The supposed bones of king Fergus were exhibited in after times
by the monks of that religious house, to many Irish and Scotch votaries
who made pilgrimages to his grave. See Montgomery Manuscripts,
New Edition, pp. 427, 428. For an account of the storm and shipwreck,
see Stewart's Metrical Version of Boece's Chronicle, vol. i, p. 41.
In 1880, the ruins of this chapel consisted of the western gable,
which was 16 feet high, and the foundations, which measured in the
by 17 feet, all traces of which have disappeared. The burialground is now under cultivation, and few interments take place.]
interior 63
3
Hanmer's Chronicle.
Dalrieda comprehended a
which was included the Route,
4
large tract of the county Antrim, in

or Root, which is said to be merely a
Ware's Antiquities.
corruption of this name.
5
Tradition affirms
vide Anthologia Hibernica.
Annals of Ulster
that this country was originally inhabited by a people called Pehts, who
resided in caves. They are said to have been very strong, but small in
Little pipes resembling our tobacco-pipes, that are sometimes
stature.
found in digging, are still commonly called Peht-pipes, from an idea that
they belonged to these, people.
:
in the government of Dalrieda, who in 710 defeated the Britons

of Cumberland, who had invaded his dominions; 1 but nothing
is recorded that has any relation to this place, until about 960,
when
was plundered by the Danes of Lough Cuan,
it
Lough Strangford.
Darkness
centuries
for
northern tribes,
nth
alias
again pervades our history during several

of the proceedings of the Danes and other
who arrived in this island from the 8th to the
which is easily accounted for

little is known;
destroying, during their ravages, all records that
related to the country, so that we are seldom enabled to trace
century,
their
by
3
any settlement of those barbarians.
The next important event in Irish history is the invasion

of the kingdom by the English in 1172; and shortly after we
Henry II. granting particular districts to his favourites
among others, the entire province of Ulster to John De Courcy,
find
"
to enjoy in that land all that
to
reserving
to
have
appears
of his grant;
he could conquer with the sword,
King homage and
the
no time
lost
fealty.'"
De Courcy
in attempting to gain possession
as, in January, 1177, he set out from Dublin

with his brother-in-law, Sir Armorick St. Lawrence, and a band
"of volunteers," consisting of 22 knights, 50 esquires, and about
who were afterwards increased to about 700,

In four days from his departure from Dublin,
he reached Down without opposition, where he found ample
300 foot
all
soldiers,
chosen men. 5
provisions and other necessaries for his army ; O'Donnell, or,

as he is called by some, Dunlenus, the chief of that district,
having
fled at his
approach.
O'Donnell soon after recovering
and receiving reinforcements from " Roderick

the monarch," attacked the invaders, but was defeated; and
from
his
panic,
being also worsted in several other engagements, De Courcy

was at length enabled to establish himself at Down.
In the
summer of 1182, he entered Dalrieda, and defeated Donald

O'Loghlin, alias O'Neill, king of that country, who fell in
and soon after began to erect castles and forts to secure
The same year he established a colony at
conquests.
battle
his
"
1
5
6
Annals of Ulster
ride Anthologia Hibernica.

Keating's History of Ireland.
XYarner's History of Ireland.
Campion's History of Ireland.
Lodge's Peerage. Cox's History of Ireland.
Hanmer's Chronicle. Lodge's Peerag*.
:
Carrickfergus, the chief of whom were the Sendalls, Bensons,

1
Jordans, Copelands, Russells, Whites, and Savages.
These colonists appear for some time to have made little
The smallness of their number,

progress in building a town.
and the unsettled state of the country, from the ravages of the
natives, and the dissensions that took place between the rival
families of De Courcy and De Lacy, and, after the disgrace
of the former, between the latter and William Marshall, lord
of Leinster, 2 were sufficient obstacles to retard the progress of
an infant colony. In 1203, Hugh De Lacy the younger was
appointed lord justice by King John; who, in May, 1205,

him earl of Ulster, bestowing on him the estates of the
brave John De Courcy, who, through the machinations of the
De Lacys, was then a prisoner in the tower of London. 3 Three
created
years after, we find Hugh De Lacy lord deputy ; and he,

with others of the same family, deeming this a proper season
to get rid of all their enemies, caused John
of Rathenny and Kilbarrock, natural son of
De
Courcy, lord
John De Courcy,
of Ulster, to be murdered ; * the Lacys accusing him
of being a spy upon their actions, and of reporting the same
5
to the king.
This event caused a general discontent and
late earl
confusion amongst the English settlers ; the Irish chieftains,

considering this a fit time to expel the English from their
respective districts, revolted, on pretence of oppressive taxation ;
and a general commotion took place throughout the kingdom.

Hanmer's Chronicle. Lodge's Peerage.
County Down. Ware's Annals. Gill's MSS.
1
'
Harris' History of the
At present none of the
descendants of the above persons reside here. Jordan's-tou'ti, parish of

Carnmonoy, bordering" on Carrickfergus, is alleged to take its name from
the above Jordans.
Copcland-tvater, in this parish, is also believed to
take its name from the early settlers here.
A tract of land, Middle
Division, is still called Whit Js- land*
probably from having belonged to
the above mentioned White, or descendants
and that land just outside
North-gate, was till lately called Sendall's-park. Some vestiges of two
The site of the castle
castlesf that belonged to this family still remain.
of John Savage is still known but of this more hereafter.
2 Cox's
History of Ireland. Davis's Historical Tracts.
Cox's History of Ireland.
4
Davis's Historical
Lodge's Peerage. Cox's History of Ireland.
,
:i
Tracts.
'
Campion's History of Ireland.

Hanmer's Chronicle.
[*\Vhite's-land, now White's Gate.

tSendall's castles the ruins of these castles have long since disappeared.
In 1838, in levelling the ground for a new road into the town from
Belfast by the Governor's Walk or Place, the foundations of the Castle of
Patrick Savage were discovered, and part of the ancient wet ditch by which
the town was formerly encompassed, as seen in the plan of the town in 1550.]
In order to suppress the flame of rebellion, and to inquire

into the oppressive conduct of the De Lacys, King John landed
at Waterford, with an army, on the 8th June, 1210; which so
intimidated the Irish, that upwards of twenty of their chiefs did
homage to him in that city, among whom was O'Neill, the
1
The De Lacys, conscious of their
powerful potentate of Ulster.
villanies and oppressions, fled, on the news of the king's arrival,
to Carrickfergus ; where Hugh and his brother Walter embarked
2
in a vessel for France.
Soon after their departure, king John
arrived at Carrickfergus,* in pursuit of them, accompanied by
Cormac O'Connor. 3 alias Crovederg, King of Connaught,

"
4
5
prisoner, who was now in his train,
captived in triumph."
In a letter of king John's given in RYMER'S FOEDERA,
the
following
particulars
"
Carrickfergus
being
now
of
his
majesty's
And when we were
proceedings
his
are
at
at Cracfergus, that castle
a certain friend and relation of ours from
taken,
Gahveya, named Duncan de Karge, informed
that he
us,
had
taken prisoners the aforesaid Matilda, and her daughter (the

wife of the son of Roger Mortimer), and the aforesaid William
the younger,
and
his wife,
Lacy, and Reginal
De
and
his
two
sons.
Breosa, had escaped."
Hugh De
And we sent
But
"
John De Courcy. and Godferd t De Cracumbe. with

and servants, and two galleys ; who, when they were
brought to us, Matilda herself began to speak of making a
settlement with us ; and offered 40,000 marks for the life and
limbs of her husband, and of herself and followers ; so that
her husband should give us peaceable possession of all his castles
and lands. And so it was agreed on between us at that time.
But after three days she repented of that settlement, and said
that she could not adhere to it."
"After this, when we had
retired from Cracfergus, and about to return to England."
for them
bailiffs
1
'

Keating 's History of Ireland.
MSS.

'Speed's Chronicle.
[* On Monday, July igth, 1210, King John arrived at Carrickfergus

from Downpatrick, beseiged and captured the castle, into which he
threw many of De Lacy's barons and adherents, seized on their lands,
and granted them their liberty only when he had wrung from them the
He placed in the castle a garrison
last penny they were able to pay.
under the command of De Serlande, and sailed from Carrickfergus on
the 2gth of July, in a ship of Bayonne, which carried him to Holy wood,
from thence he travelled to Dublin. Cox's Lit. Pat., Vol. i ]
[tGodferd was King of Man and father-in-law to John De Courcy.]
here drops the subject, but PRYNNE gives farther

particulars in an extract of a letter written by some person
"
then in the train of John he says,
Coming at length, into
the province of that country, called Meath, they besieged, and
RYMER
in
took,
and
a certain
Matilda, the wife of W. De Breosa,

with his wife.
They having privately
fort,
his son William,
escaped from him, and afterwards being again taken in the

island Maig (Magee), were brought before the king ; (we saw
them bound in chains), who sent them to England. All of
these
persons,
by the
king's
orders,
perished
by
hunger."
SPEED, also mentions the circumstance, and says, that Matilda

had sent to the queen from Ireland the singular present of
400 cows and a bull, all white but their ears, which were red ;
this present, it is added, did not make her peace, as she and
her son were sent prisoners to Windsor, where they were starved
to death.
In the meantime the
De Lacys
proceeded to France, and
entered themselves as gardeners with the Abbot of St. Taurin ;

but an unskilful manner in handling their working tools soon
discovered them to be no regular workmen.
Being questioned
by the abbot, they confessed their rank, and he became a suitor
to the king in their behalf, obtaining their pardons on paying
large fines; Walter 2500 marks for Meath, and Hugh 4000
marks for Ulster. 1
Those and numerous other dissensions, which it is not now
our office to notice, doubtless retarded the erection of a town ;
hence, although Sir John De Courcy had placed settlers here,
we find the town mentioned as being founded by Hugh De
2
Lacy the younger, in i2$o; from which period it appears to
have remained long the chief seat and garrison of the English
in Ulster, and continued in their possession, when all, or at
least the greater part of Ulster, was overrun by the Irish.
Maurice Fitzgerald, a Welshman, who came over to Ireland
with Henry II., is also said to have founded the town, when
lord deputy, in 1242;' but as De Lacy was successor to De
Courcy, both in title and estates, as earl of Ulster, and is also
said to have founded a monastery here, in I232. 4 he was
probably
1
2
s
the
person
to
whom,
at
least
chiefly,
Campion's History of Ireland. Hanmcr's Chronicle.

Anderson's Constitutions of Masonry.
MSS. Countess
of Antrim's library.
Hanmer's Chronicle.
it
owes
its
The
foundation.
clashing of these accounts, perhaps, proceed
from the fortifying of the town, incorporating of the settlement,

or other attentions paid to the town by Fitzgerald, when lord
deputy, in which office (save a short interval) he continued
from about 1230, to I245- 1 This is the more likely, as he was
very vigilant while in
office, in
strengthening the English
ments; causing several castles to be

2
those of Sligo and Ley.
built,
settle-
among which were
silent as to any event of moment regarding

1274; in which year the Scots landed on the
adjacent coast, to assist the O'Xeills against the English, and
proceeded, according to the barbarous warfare of those times,
"
"
towns and villages, killing man, woman, and child ;
to burn
after which they carried off their booty to Scotland, before a
sufficient force could be collected to oppose them.
Soon after,
an army was raised in Ulster and Connaught, with which
Richard De Burgo and Sir Eustace Le Poer invaded Scoltand,
History
this
place,
is
again
till
Even those persons who sought

ample retaliation.
refuge in caves, are stated to have been smoked out like foxes,
and put to the sword. 3
making
Though Carrickfergus is not specially mentioned as one

of the towns burnt by the Scots, it is more than probable that
it shared in the
ravages of this time, as in the following year
we find the mayor, and other inhabitants, addressing a letter
Edward
to
"
I.,
respecting a rebellion lately suppressed, which
was kindled by some
"
Irish and English

amongst
former are noticed, " Od. O'Neill, king of
This
Renelyon, and Common O'Kathran, king of Reach."*
"
letter states, that those persons were instigated by
the lords
they say
chief of the
the
Henry De Maundevill, Robert De Maundevill, Thomas

1
1
3
Ware's Antiquities.
MSS. Countess of Antrim's library.
Anthologia Hibernica. Cox's History of Ireland.
the son
Ware'? Annals.
The
latter places this event a year earlier.

*
Leland, in his History of Ireland, presents us with a list of Irish
chiefs summoned by Henry III., about 1240, to assist him against the
"
Scots ; amongst them we find
Bren O'Nel, regi de Kinelun, i.e., Kenel
"
O'Chatan, i.e., O'Cathan." The former
t'ogain xivc TiroweH," and
of those persons was evidently an O'Neill, prince of Tyrone; the latter
with the
plainly O'Cachan, alias O'Kane (a sept in alliance
O'Xeills), and both doubtless of the same septs noticed above; perhaps
the same persons.
The superior chief of the O'Cachans resided at Benbraden, near
Dungivon a branch of the same family held the castle of Dunseveric,
London Gentleman's Magazine.
so late as the time of Cromwell.
as
10
of Richard, Thomas De Maundevill, Martin De Maundevill,

"
and William De Corrs, of the army ;
and that they had
"
committed
murders, burnings, robberies, and other transgresseneschal of
sions, especially to the lord William of Warrin,
1
Ulster, from whom they burned five towns, three mills, and two
thousand cratmochs- of corn, by which they reduced the said
seneschal yearly fifty-seven marks rent."

They also state, that
persons had rescued some hostages held here by the
English ; and that the sole cause of this rebellion was the
those
seneschal's having distrained them for debts due to the crown.

"
It is added, that they were at length subdued by the
help of
God," the said seneschal, and Hugh Byset ; many of them being
taken prisoners, some of whom were executed here in prison,
and others pardoned by his majesty.

None of the De Lacys appear openly implicated in this
rebellion ; yet feuds and jealousies seem to have been still
increasing between them and the government, which at length
broke forth into open war.
In 1312, the lord justice Mortimer
sent a force against them, under the orders of
John Birmingham ;*
on which Walter, Robert, and Aumery De Lacy fled into
Scotland, where they invited lord Edward Bruce, brother to
Robert Bruce, king of Scotland, to invade their country and
become their king. 4
Alluring as these proposals were, the Scots appear to have
been cautious in their acceptation.
In the following year they
some armed boats
to plunder the coasts of Ulster, and

to discover the strength of the disaffected.
far they
succeeded in the latter, we are not informed; but meeting with
sent out
How
rather a rough reception, they retired home ; soon after which

lord Edward Bruce arrived on the coast of Ulster in person,
with a stronger force, and took
"
the castle of Man, and the

"
O'Donnell prisoner ;
and now, seeing the weakness of
the English power, he returned to prepare a more formidable
lord
expedition.
This success of lord Edward gave additional strength to

This person was in all likelihood William Fitz-Warrin, seneschal
See Davis's Historical Tracts.
Crannoch or crannog, was a dry measure for holding corn, composed of twigs lined with the skin of a beast, and was alleged to
contain the grain of seven score sheaves of corn.
Ware's Antiquities.
''Close Rolls, Tower, London.
4
Lodge's Peerage. Leland's History of Ireland.
[""This name is now usually spelled Bermingham.]
1
cf Ulster.
-
'
the Irish malecontents, who kept up a correspondence with his

brother king Robert Bruce, imploring his aid against the
common enemy, and expressing their willingness to receive a
1
Their wishes on this head were probably
prince from Scotland.
complied with as soon as possible; for in May, 1315, lord
Edward Bruce, having now obtained the consent of the
Scottish parliament, embarked about 6000 men at Ayr, and,

with the three banished De Lacys, landed on the 25th same
month at Olderfleet, near Larne, accompanied by the following
persons
lord
Mowbray,
Thomas Randolph,
Sir
John
Soulis,
the earl of Moray, Sir Philip

John Stewart, lord John
Sir
Campbell, John Bisset, John Menteith, John De Bosco, Sir

Fergus of Ardrossan, Ramsay of Ochterhouse, and other
-'
distinguished persons.
Numerous Irish chiefs
now
flocked to
B race's
standard, all
whom
pledged their utmost assistance, entered into treaties

with him, and gave hostages for their due observance of the
same." Proceeding southward with his new allies, his progress
was marked by the destruction of the English settlements,
amongst which were the towns of Belfast, Newtown, and
of
On the 2pth June, he stormed and plundered

Dundalk and Ardee, with other places of less note; but being,
about the 22nd July, opposed by Sir Edmond Butler, justiciary
of Ireland, and Richard earl of Ulster, with his vassals, he
Greencastle.
retreated into Ulster, accompanied by his most

powerful ally, O'Neill, prince of Tyrone, and halted near
Connor. 4
In the meantime, the earl, despising the Scots and their
precipitately
adherents, and confiding in the number

refused the assistance of the justiciary,
and valour of
his forces,
who immediately
retired
to Dublin, leaving the entire conduct of the war to the former ;

who, pursuing the enemy, attacked them in their quarters on
zoth September, but was totally defeated.

In this battle,
De Burgo, Sir John Maundevill, Sir Allan FitzWarrin, John Stanton, and several other persons of note in
the
lord William
the English army, were taken prisoners and sent into Scotland ;
while the fugitives, under lord Poer of Dunville, sought safety
Leland's History of Ireland.
-Sir David Dalrymple's Annals of Scotland.
Lodge's Peerage.
Camden's Britannia.
Sir David Dalrymple's Annals of Scotland.
4
Sir
Spenser's View of Ireland.
David Dalrymple's Annals of Scotland.
1
::
in the castle of Carrickfergus,
where lord William Maundevill,
and John, bishop of -Connor, had also taken refuge.

Bruce, being now relieved from all apprehensions of an
immediate attack from the English, sent lord Randolph home
for reinforcements, and again resumed warfare by laying siege
J
to the castle of Carrickfergus, which he pressed with vigour.
His utmost efforts were, however, unavailing, it being bravely

defended by its garrison ; and seeing no hope of his being able
to force its submission,
about the beginning of December he
Lord Randolph arriving, same time,

relinquished the siege.
with 500 fresh troops, Bruce again proceeded southward, and
penetrated into the counties of Meath and Kildare; but the
ravages of the armies the preceding year had rendered the
country desolate, and he was obliged to retreat to Dundalk,

where he held his court for some time as a sovereign prince ;
after which he again resumed the siege of Carrickfergus castle. Soon after, Thomas lord Maundevill hastened to its relief
with a considerable body of troops, and, on the loth April

succeeded in gaining admission into the castle.
Early on the
made a desperate sally on the

apprehended no danger, their only
time being sixty men, commanded by Neil
following morning, Maundevill

Scots,
who appear
guard
at
that
to have
man of uncommon intrepidity.

Fleming, perceiving that the Scottish army would be completely surprised, and probably route'd, unless they had time to
prepare for defence, resolved to sacrifice himself and party for
Fleming, a
He immediately despatched a messenger to

inform the army of their danger, and placing himself at the
head of his little troop, boldly advanced to meet the assailants.
"
"
Now, of a truth," cried he, they shall see how we can die for
our Lord." His first onset checked the progress of the enemy
but he soon received a mortal wound, and his party were cut
their preservation.
to pieces.
Maundevill, having divided his forces, in order to

surround the Scots, now advanced in person, with his best troops,
through the principal street of the town; and was met by Bruce,
who had probably been alarmed by the messenger

him by Fleming.
In the front of Bruce's party was
Gilbert Harper, a man renowned in the Scottish army for
strength and valour; who, knowing Maundevill by the richness
with his guards,
sent to
'Sir
Ireland.
'-Sir

Ware's Annals.
Cox's
History
of
of his armour, rushed forward and felled' him to the ground

with his battle-axe; in which situation he was despatched by
-The English, disheartened
lord Edward Bruce, with a knife.
to
by the loss of their commander (and the Scots continuing
pour in fresh forces, amongst which were 200 Irish horsemen),
fled towards the castle, closely pressed by the enemy; upon
which the garrison were obliged to draw up the bridge, lest the
Scots should enter with them;
leaving their unfortunate
comrades to the mercy of those ruthless
Soon
after,
the
garrison
offered
assailants.
to
within
surrender
and an agreement to that effect was entered into,

which
they were to give up the castle on the 3ist May,
by
limited time,
The time elapsing without relief, they were

required to surrender according to contract, and thirty Scots
advanced to take possession of the castle, but were immediately
unless relieved.
prisoners ; the garrison declaring they would defend the

place to the last extremity. About this time king Robert Bruce
made
Lochroyan [Ryan], and soon after

2
with
a reinforcement to his brother.
Carrickfergus
embarked
at
landed
at
The siege was now more closely pressed than ever, yet the
garrison held out to the end of August, before they surrendered.
Prior to this event they had endured the utmost horrors of
famine, eating hides ; and it is even said that they devoured
the thirty Scots
who were taken
prisoners, as just noticed.

"
marched southward with a

Securing this place, Bruce
barbarous army, inflamed to madness by the violent cravings
of nature." On approaching Dublin, he stopped for some time
4
at Castleknock ; but finding the citizens prepared for a vigorous
defence, he entered the county of Kildare, and advanced near
fire and sword the country through
which he passed/'
In the meantime the lord justice, Roger Mortimer, landed
in Ireland with fresh forces, which excited Bruce's apprehensions
for his safety; and in May, 1317, he again retreated into Ulster,
Limerick, laying waste by
which had been so desolated by the ravages of the preceding

years, that his army suffered dreadfully for want of provisions ;
1
1
*
David Dalrymple's Annals of Scotland. Barbour.

Sir David Dalrymple's Annals
Sir
Sir
of
Scotland.
*Leland's History of Ireland.

Cathedral.
*
Mason's History of
St.
Patrick's
14
and the few wretched inhabitants endured such privations, that

and eaten by the living, i
At this time the English forces appear to have been equally
incapable of offensive warfare, from the famine,- revolt of the
In May, 1318, Bruce
natives, and dissensions among themelves.
advanced to Fagher, near Dundalk, where he was attacked by
Sir John Bermingham, his army totally routed, and himself
slain ; and being found amongst the dead, his head* was cut oft
by Bermingham, and presented to Edward II., who for his
The fugitive Scots, broken,
services created him earl of Louth. 3
dispirited, and pursued by their enemies, made the best of their
way northward, destroying all castles, forts and habitations that
had been left.
From hence the few survivors embarked for
the dead are stated to have been raised
their native country, leaving Ireland in a state of desolation

exceeding anything recorded in her former history.
Soon after the defeat of lord Edward Bruce, his brother
Robert
arrived
in
Carrickfergus
with
reinforcements
learning the total failure of the cause, he returned home.

again came over, accompanied by the earl of Menteith.
but
He
and
other Scottish nobles, in order to conclude a treaty with the

but the justiciary and council not arriving as
English;
5
appointed, he returned to Scotland.
1
Cox's History of Ireland

-At this time wheat sold at 23 shillings the cronage, and oats at
six shillings
and all other provisions dear in proportion. Cox's History
;
of Ireland.
[*
Bruce 's head, after the barbarous fashion of the day, was pre-
served in
3
salt.]
Cox's History of Ireland. Bruce 's grave is

Peerage.
" the
pointed out by a large stone on the hill of Fagher, as that of
last Irish king."
Barbour states, that it was the head of Gilbert Harper
that was cut off, his body being mistaken for that of Bruce, by the
richness of his armour.
4
Barbour.
Spenser's View of Ireland.
'Universal History. Camden's Britannia.
[Edward Bruce so fat ingratiated himself with the Irish that theycrownel
him King at Knocknemelan, near Dundalk, where he held his Court for .-on;e
Lodge's
still
time.
Lodge's Peerage.]
[In contradiction of the above, Taylor, in the Pictorial History of

Scotland, states that the coronation of Edward Bruce as King of Ireland
He draws his
took place at Carrickfergus on the 2nd May, 1316.
information from Barbour, who is the author of a metrical history or
genealogy of the Kings of Scotland, and who lived about the same time
and Edward Bruce. Both accounts have been given, and if

by Taylor be true Carrickfergus may be considered a royal town,
and the place where the last King of Ireland was crowned.]
as Robert
this
CHAPTER
II.
the Scots were completely expelled from the

kingdom, yet Carrickfergus, having endured the miseries
of war for upwards of three years, must have been
THOUGH
It enjoyed, however, but

nearly, if not wholly, depopulated.
a short repose; for, in 1333, it was, with the rest of Ulster,
thrown into the deepest confusion by the death of William De

Burgo, third earl of Ulster, governor, who was murdered on
the 6th June, by his own servants, as he returned from hunting,
"
at
the fords," 1
Robert Fitz-Richard
near this town. 2
Maundevill gave him the first wound.
The murderers are
said to have been instigated by Gyle De Burgo, wife of Sir
Richard Maundevill, in revenge for the earl having imprisoned
her brother Walter, and other relations. 3
Immediately after this event, the widow of the late earl
of
with
Ulster,
her
infant
daughter
Elizabeth,
into
fled
England; and the powerful sept of the O'Neills, of Tyrone,

and their feudatories, taking advantage of the confusion of
who were now without a head, crossed the river

Bann, and entering the -pale, seized their ancient possessions as
far as this town. 1
This district, and a large tract of country
the colonists,
Northward of this town, and at the extremity of the ancient

boundaries of this county, is a ford called Johnston''s-ford; a little nearer
the town, also on the boundaries of this district, Bcltye-ford; and in the
same direction, but nearer, is Clubb's-ford : might not those places be
"
"* noticed above?

[*This event took place between "Craigfcrgus and Newtown
at the ford across the Lagan, the site of the future Belfast."
See
Lodge's Peerage, vol. i, p. 124. Annals of Ireland. Annals of Lough
the fords
Cee, vol.
3
s
*
i,
p. 617.]
Lodge's Peerage.
Lodge's Peerage.
Lodge's Peerage.
Davis's Historical Tracts.
its name from Dalaradia, to North

Lower Clan-Aodh-Buidhe, from being possessed by the sept
of Aodh, or Hugh O'Neill, the yellow; which name it retained
northward, thence changed
or
for several centuries
hence Clanbuy, Clanboy, Clandeboy, or
Clanneboy.
On
news of the
called by
was
parliament
the
murder reaching Dublin, a

John Darcy, lord deputy, by
earl's
Sir
advice of which he sailed on the
first July for Carrickfergus,

"
he destroyed the
with the assistance of the people,
and
their
murderers
abettors,"
putting upwards of three
where,
to the sword; and in all pardons granted

"
about this time, the following clause was inserted
Excepting
2
the death of William, late earl of Ulster."
By an inquisition
hundred of them
taken before Sir John Morris, escheator of Ulster, on the 8th

December, yth Edward III., it is declared, that, there were
divers
lands belonging to the late earl in
Ulster,
which are
situated in the Irish parts, so that no person could come near

the same, or receive any profit thereout, because the Irish in
those places would not permit any of the king's ministers, or

The deputy, immediately after this
any English there.
chastisement
ravaged
the
of the rebels,
Scottish
isles,
sailed
and
from hence for Scotland,

did
otherwise
considerable
execution against the Scots. 3

Notwithstanding these excursions of the deputy, the Irish
continued masters of all the northern parts of Ulster, except a
district about this place; and the powerful family of the De
"
and no
Burgos, seeing their chief cut off without male issue,
man
left to govern or protect that province," joined heartily

with the Irish, seized the late earl's lands, assumed Irish names,
and became completely Irish in manners, language, and apparel. 4

Some younger branches of the family divided their seniory
between them, one of them taking the name of Mac William
ought er, and the other Mac William tighter, i.e. the further and
the nether
Mac
William.
The inferior branches of the family

Mac Hubbard, Mac Walter, Mac
also adopted Irish names, as
David. &c. 5
to
For some years the English government in Ulster appears

have been almost totally superseded by the Irish; who were
1
2
3
4

Lodge's Peerage.
Harris's History of the County
Down.
also assisted by the Scots, whose interest it was to keep up a

as, besides the plunder obtained on those
constant warfare;
occasions, they were also supplied with provisions, in reward

In 1338, an order was sent by the lord
for their services.
deputy to the constable of this castle, to punish all those who

could be found carrying provisions to them. 1
In 1361, Lionel, duke of Clarence, lord deputy, third son
of Edward III. who in 1352 had married Elizabeth,* only
child and heir to William, late earl of Ulster, arrived in Ireland
men
Being heir by his wife to the

began to attempt the
the
latter
and
we
are
of
informed
he succeeded in
;
recovery
"
"
the maritime parts of Ulster
from the enemy ;*
recovering
but as we do not find that he was able to bring the O'Neills,
or their allies, even to a show of submission, it is likely his
conquests were very limited, both in their extent and duration.
In such a state of warfare and confusion as that which
had prevailed since the invasion of Bruce, the state of the
inhabitants must have been miserable almost beyond description.
with about 1500
and
titles
at arms.
estates of her father, he soon
were, however, destined to still further calamities ; for, in

4
1386, the Scots came and burned the town; but as the castle
is not noticed as sharing in this conflagration, it is probable that
They
it not
only resisted the efforts of the enemy, but also served as
an asylum for the few inhabitants who still survived.
Soon
after, we find the mayor and burgesses requesting assistance
from the lord deputy (Robert de Vere, marquis of Dublin) to
declaring that they were unable of themdeputy, in his order of the 2oth April, the
rebuild their town,
The
selves.
"
following year,
directs,
by the advice of our
justices
and
Thomas Alwayn,
treasurer of Ulster, to remit to them

"
the rents of the corporation,
to build and repair the said towne,
others,"
totally
burned by our enemies and the enemies of our Lord

5
the King, the Scotch."

This building, or repair, was perhaps scarcely completed,
when it again shared a like fate. In June, 1400, the English
fleet,
commanded by
the constable of Dublin castle,
MSS. Lambeth
Library.
ancestress of Edward IV., through
passed into the possession of the crown.]
1
Lodge's Peerage.
s
[* Elizabeth,
*
5
engaged
Close Rolls, Tower, London.

3
whom
the earldom
i8
that of the Scots, off Strangford, county of Down ; but the
former being defeated, the Scots and Irish again ravaged the
1
This town appears to have
English possessions in Ulster.
been again destroyed about this time; for in the patent office,
art. 74, part 7, is the following notice, which in all likelihood
"
has an allusion to this event.
The King, &c. to all &c., health.
The Maior, &c. and three burgesses of the Towne of CragFergus, in Ireland, have supplicated us, that whereas the said
towne had been totally burned by our enemies, and they had
As the said Towne was
resolved on rebuilding it again, &c.
\vont, before the destruction mentioned above, to paye to us
annually, 100 shillings for our protectinge it, WE have excused
the said Maior, Burgesses, &c. from payinge the said revenue
due to us, for the space of one whole yeare.
Witness, &c.
Seconde day of July, 1402."
From the confusion of those times, we are not informed
how far the above persons succeeded in rebuilding the town ;
but from their slender means, and the predatory visits of the
Irish and Scots, with whom it would seem they were in a state
of constant warfare, we may fairly infer that their progress
was both slow and imperfect.
In 1408, we find this warfare still continued with all the
horrid rigour of that age. This is strikingly exemplified in the
case of two brothers of the name of Savage, who were taken
prisoners, and a ransom soon after paid for their liberation ;
yet they were murdered by an Irish chief called Mac Gilmore,
who in the following year was killed by the Savages in the
church of the Franciscans, Carrickfergus. 2
In 1430, the bounds of that part of the kingdom commonly
3
called the English pale, extended no farther than Down; and
"
in 1460, we find all Ulster, save
some few Places on the Sea4
and the English settlers
Coast," in possession of the Irish;
who remained, obliged to compromise with them for their safety,
5
1471, only
by paying an annual tribute called "Black rent."
manor of Carlingford were subject to the

crown of England; 6 and in 1476, the revenues of the pale were
in such a miserable state, that a standing army of 140 horsemen.
the revenues of the
'
Cox's History of Ireland. Leland's History of Ireland.

Ware's Annals. Cox's History of Ireland.
Anthologia Hibernica.
Harris's Hibernica.
the annual expenses of whom were valued at

^500, was thought
too great for the revenue of the Irish government. 1
Under
their
all these privations,
the English appear to have
still
protected on all emergencies by the

castle ; its lofty and massy walls being
easily defended.
Except
in the extreme case of Bruce's invasion, it
appears to have
kept
footing here,
successfully
domestic.
resisted
the efforts
of
all
enemies,
foreign
and
This year we find John Bayne mayor; on the

June, same year, he was joined in a commission with
Patrick Holyborton, and Henry Pole, captain of the " Fleet"
to form "a league and friendship'"' with Donald Gorme, ea^'
1481,
22(1
of Ross, and lord of the isles, 2 who at this time resisted the
claims of James V. to those titles and estates. 3
1497, a dreadful famine raged in Ulster; and in 1500,
we
find Ulster in open rebellion against the English, which was

same year suppressed for a time, by Gerald, earl of Kildare,
lord deputy.
Autumn, 1503, the above deputy took the castle
of Belfast from the Irish, which he " demolished," and came to
Carrickfergus, where he placed a numerous garrison, leaving
one Stanton constable of the castle, and governor. 4
In the two following years we find Ulster suffering under
the awful calamities of famine and pestilence
a wet summer
and autumn are assigned as the cause of the former. 5 In 1513,
:
a body of Scottish troops, under James Hamilton, first Earl of

Arran, landed on the adjoining coast; they sailed from the Firth
of Forth on the 2oth of July. His Majesty James IV. was on
board, at the time of sailing, to animate the commanders and
men ; and continued in the ship Michael, until the fleet passed
the Isle of May.
Regardless of his instructions, on the departure of his Majesty, Arran landed his troops near Carrickfergus,
which town he took and burned, with several villages, on the
same
Irish
coast, in revenge for some depredations committed by the

It appears, from
on the people of the Isle of Arran.
respectable evidence, that this descent of the Scots was marked

Sir David Lindsay, a Scottish poet,
the utmost barbarity.
"
in his "History of Squayer Meldrum"
has celebrated in strains
by
from
far
1
*
*
*
1
fanciful,"
the
actions
of
the
Harris's Hibernica.
Lodge's Peerage.
Ware's Annals.
Ware's Annals.
Cox's History of Ireland
said
"
Squayer,"
in
20
protecting, on this occasion, the priest and friars from the
ruthless soldiery ; and his deliverance of a virgin from violence.
Speaking of the landing of the Scots, he says

" And as
they passit be Ireland coist,
The Admiral #irt 'and his oist,
And set Craigforgus into fyre,
And safet nouther barne nor byre
was
greit pitie for to heir

Of the pepill the xvailfull chci:>.
And how the land folk were sp\vilyeit.
Fair woman under fute were fulliyait.
But this young Squayer bauld and wright,
It
Savit
all
women, quhare he might.
All preistis and freiris he did save,

Till at the last he did persave,
Behind ane garding amiabill,
Ane woman's voce right lamentabill."

The " Squayer " then proceeds to rescue the young lady from
two men. Soon after, Arran steered for Ayr, and landed his
plunder
1522,
Ulster;
(See M'Skimin's Appendix.)

Scots again plundering the coasts of
and two years afterward, John Allen, master of the
in safety.
we
find the
"
laws were not obeyed twenty

was garrisoned by the
town
compass."
forces under Thomas, the tenth earl of Ormond, 4 who same
year marched hence into Belfast, at which place his army is
"
stated to have
waded over on foot ; 5 by which is doubtless
meant, crossing the ford, where the Long Bridge at that town
reporting to the king that his
rolls,
miles
now
in
1545. this
is.
Sir James Crofts, lord deputy, arrived here, and

soon after proceeded with part of his forces against the island
of Rathlin, or Raughery.
The expedition proved highly
1551,
unfortunate ; his army was repulsed with considerable loss, and

himself and captain Bagnal taken prisoners by James and Col
1
*
1
Lindsay's Squayer Meldrum.

Ware's Annals.
Pinkerton's History of Scotland.
About November, 1545, Sir Anthony St. Ledger, lord deputy,

embarked 1,500 men at Dublin, under the command of Sir John Travers
and the earl of Ormond, for the purpose of assisting the earl of Lencx
in Scotland.
They came to anchor at Olderfleet, where a storm coming
on, they were obliged to cut their cables and masts, and make for the
but were again driven back to the Irish coast, where, being
Clyde
unable to proceed further, they landed their men. The troops were then
marched to Carrickfergus, from which place they soon set off for
Dublin. The weather was very severe, and the Lagan frozen over, and
yet the men passed over on foot to Strangford, and from thence to
Dundalk. Travers, with his division, proceeded by the Ards, where he
had several skirmishes with the Irish. Stanhurst. (Sf e M'Skimin's App.)
;
Hollinshed's Chronicle.
21
Mac Donnell he also lost one of his vessels. The

deputy and Bagnal were soon after exchanged for Sorley-buy
Mac Donnell, brother to the above Mac Donnells, who, at the
time of their capture, was a prisoner in the castle of Dublin. 1
In December, the following year, Hugh Mac Neal Oge,
or Collus
of Clandeboy, submitted to the English government

gratified
monastery,
"
2
priests
granted him the
he
that
his
which so
Franciscan
majesty,
"
to keep there secular
Carrickfergus, with leave
certainly a great favour at that time, all religious
houses having been previously suppressed.

1555, the Scots, under James Mac Donnell, again landed
on the neighbouring coast, and laid siege to this town, which
About the
they continued to invest till the following year.
beginning of July,
1556,
the
deputy,
Thomas
Ratcliff,
lord
Fitz-Walter, marched from Dublin with an army, accompanied

by Sir Henry Sidney, and Thomas earl of Ormond. On the
1 8th
same month, they arrived here, and defeated the Scots
Henry Sidney killed James Mac

many also were taken prisoners.
Sir
after,
John
Stanley, who had distinguished
Immediately
himself in this battle ; was made lieutenant governor of Ulster ;
and the deputy " having decreed something to the advantage of
with
great
slaughter;
Sir
Donnell with his own hand
the publick peace in the Citv of
Knockfergus" and
left
ample
stores for the garrison, returned to Dublin.

About the beginning of October, 1558,
the lord deputy,
Thomas
Ratcliff (by the death of his father, now earl of Sussex),

arrived here from his expedition against the Scots, during which
he had taken Rathlin, and placed a garrison and colony there;

but lost one of his ships on its rocks during a storm, in which
were some citizens of Dublin. He also ravaged Cantyre, Arran,
and the Comraes, and burned all such villages on the coast of
Ulster as belonged to the Scots. 4
1568, February i5th, a large party of Scots, commanded
5
by Owen Mac Gillaspiche, landed on the opposite shore of
"
"
and
to
a new
enthrone
Down,
proceeded
Castlereagh, to
1
Ware's Annals. Cox's History of Ireland.

Cox's History of Ireland. Ware's Annals. Perhaps it is from the
above "decrees," that tradition states "a parliament was held here."
4
Cox's History of Ireland. Ware's Annals.
2
5
From MSS. in the possession of the author, it is believed that this
person was Gillaspig Due Mac Donnell, a natural son of Nisse, and
grandson of Nisse leogh Mac Donnell.
of Clandeboy.
On the night of the i8th same month,
captain Peirs, governor, and part of the troops of this garrison,
marched hence with the utmost privacy, in order to surprise the
Scots; and, crossing the river Lagan, succeeded in taking
king
shelter in a wood, unperceived by the enemy who were at that

"
"
or in other words, plundertime busied in
collecting a prey ;
The following morning,
ing the English settlements.
captain
from the wood, attacked the Scots with vigour,

and obtained a complete victory, above 200 of the enemy being
On the part of
killed, amongst whom was their commander.
the English fell Richard Hunt, much regretted as a brave
"
1
torne in Titters."
soldier; and the ensign was
In September, the above year, Sir Henry Sidney, lord
Peirs, issuing
deputy, arrived here ; to whom Turlough Lynogh of Tyrone,

a powerful Irish chief, who claimed to be chief of the O'Neills
on the death of
Shane,* came and made his sub-
his brother
2
mission, begging the deputy's pardon with great humility.
the same time, some Scottish hostages were executed; 3
At
and
before leaving this town, the deputy passed some decrees for
its
which see Appendix, No. i.

This submission of Turlough Lynogh appears to have
better government, for
been of short duration, as in the following year we find him

invading the pale; and the deputy, about the same time, writing
to the council in England, informs them that captain Selbie,
and Bawmforde,
with
fergus
"
fifty
Clerke of the Checke," going from Carrickwere three times chased by the
horsemen,
.rish.
1570,
we
find the Irish
still
in
open
rebellion,
and
collected
about this town, near which they were attacked and defeated
"
Service, was by the
by captain William Peirs, who, for this
1
Letters of Sir Henry Sidney.

Shane O'Neill was killed by Captain William Peirs, near Cushendun, who cut off his head and pickled it in a pipkin, for which he was
rewarded by Queen Elizabeth with 1,000 marks.
Sunday, June aist, 1908, a cairn was erected at Cushendun to the
[*
memory
2
of
Shane O'Neill.]
He had
also made his submission the foregoing year.

April, 1567,
"
Henry Sidney, writing to the queen, says,
Turloghe Lynoghe
sheweth himselfe a devote Subjecte to your Highness, dailie Embrouynge
himself in the Blood of the Rebells Followers."
He had previously
killed Alexander Mac Donnell, brother to Sorleybouy, and one of his
sons and was married to the widow of James Mac Donnell. Letters
Sir
of Sir
'
Henry Sidney.

Letters of Sir
Henry Sidney.
23
In the following year,
Queenes Order liberally Rewarded.''
we find this town noticed as an " important place for crubing
'1
the Irish." 2
n the 2pth May, the corporation addressed a letter

deputy Fitzwilliam, complaining of the conduct of
Thomas Smyth, governor in the absence of captain Peirs. They
state that he had abused them, and hindered their trade; and
I
573
to the lord
"
conclude by requesting leave to sell their

wynes, aqua vita,
"
to any, as well rebells as
cloth, saffron, salt, and such lyke,"
"
It is added, that the inhabitants
others."
are become So pore,
as the third parte of the said Towne is ruynate."
On the 6th
June, the deputy returned a polite answer to their memorial
for both papers, copied from the records of this corporation,
:
n.
see Appendix, No.
Immediately
the
after,
of Carrickfergus
records
we
give them in full.

June, was the Towne
"
following
as they
appear in the
and interesting,
yeare the 2d daye of
notices
are brief
1573, In this
of
Knockfergus for the most parte

destroyed by fier, by reason of Captain Smyth's departure out
of the Same with his force, not leaving Sufficient force to defend
the
Same,
Sur
by
Brian
M'Phellime
(O'Neill)
&
his
Co-
partners."
Same Yeare, aboughte the 2oth of August, came the

honourable the Earle of Essexe 3 * into this land, as Lord
In the
right
Ware's Annals.
Ware's Annals.
Life of Sir
Thomas Smyth.
Walter Devereux, Earl of Essex, has betn appointed captain general

and governor of Ulster, and was at this time the chief of a band of military
adventurers.
He had indentured with the queen to raise and maintain 200
and for this purpose he had morthorse and 400 foot soldiers, for two years
gaged his estate in Essex to the queen for ^"10,000. Her majesty was also
and all fortifications
to keep up an equal number of troops in said province
were to be made at the equal charge of the parties. To encourage adventurers, each horse volunteer, who would serve gratis two years, was to have
400 acres of land, at two pence per acre ; and each foot soldier 200 acres,
on the like terms. Leave was also granted to cut timber in the woods of
to transport the growth of the country, for seven years, free of
Killulta
The earl was to
duties
and to import all English goods, custom free.
plant his land with 1000 English settlers.
The lateness of the season when he landed, and the rawness of his
troops, prevented any great exploit being performed so soon as his friends
could have wished.
Hence, many became dissatisfied. Lord Rich soon
after returned to England, as did Sir Henry Knowles, and many others, on
different pretences.
On the first December, he wrote to the earl of Sussex
for fresh supplies
but his enemy, the earl of Leicester, counteracted every
However, he made some advances into the
application of this kind.
;
24
Governour
Province
accompanied with
Towne of Knockmany
"
Rich and other
The
Earl
of
with
the
Lord
Essexe,
fergus."
after many perils, the
Gentlemen embarked at Liverpoole
ship he was in made Copeman's Island (Copeland Js/es), from
whence in a pinnace he reached Knockfergus. Lord Rich made
Killcliffe Castle, and was then conducted to Inch Abby (Maister
of
the
of
Ulster,
a lusty Gentleman, and landed in this
Malbie's house), from whence, with a. guard of 150 horsemen,

fifty kerns that went on foot through the woods, he was
conducted safely to Knockfergus ; among these were thirty bows,
beside
with a bagpipe ; the rest had darts." ]

Besides those already noticed, who on the 6th September
made their submission and offered their services to the
were Rory Oge M'Quillin O'Donnell, and the captain of

The earl brought with him some troops, both
earl,
Killulta. 2
horse and foot, and was accompanied by lords Darcy and Rich,
Sir Henry Knowles, and four of his brothers, relations of said
country, drove the island Scots out of Clandeboy, and
"took the
castle of
from Con O'Donnell"; but, making little progress, and

receiving many angry messages from court, he resigned his command, and
Cox's
retired to Dublin, where he died of a broken heart, Sept. 22, 1576.
MSS. Lambeth Library. Life of Sir Thomas Smyth.
History of Ireland.
Camden's Annals of Queen Elizabeth.
Within these few years there were some vestiges of the house in which
he dwelt in Carrickfergus, at the south end, east side of Essex-street, otherThe
wise Cranagh-bawn
the former of which names was taken from him.
walk adjoining the house was also called, from him, Governor's walk lately
changed to Governor's place. A double row of elm trees remained on this
walk till 1820. At the west end was an embattled bastion, called Essexmount perhaps from its being raised by him. The last of its battlements
and embrasures fell in the winter of 1801 but a small part of the west side
Liffer
(Lifford)
of the bastion still remains.

Essex-street, or Cranaghbawn, was formerly
called "the street to Essex's mount."
[No trace of the bastion now remains,]
[""Several of Essex's officers remained in this country, so that the enterprise
was not entirely fruitless as a colonising experiment. Of these are noticed the
founders of the noble families of Downshire, Templeton, Massereene, and also
Dalway, Dobbs, &c.
The Earl of Essex gives a general picture of the entire country in these
words " At my arrival here I found the countries in arms, and no place out
of the hands of the Irish rebels or Scots, but only the town of Knockfergus,
which the townsmen meant to leave and abandon, having prepared all things
for their journey into the English Pale; but the townsmen, taking heart by the
bruit of her Majesty's army to be sent under me, staid their determination, and
have now settled themselves in their habitation." See Carew MSS., 1515:
I574-]
1
Holingshed's Chronicle.
Holingshed's Chronicle.
25
Michael Carves, and Henry, William,

1
three sons of lord Norris.
earl,
Soon after the
came and made

arrival,
Guile,
Hugh
arrival,
his
services
O'Neill, baron of
Brian MThellimy (O'Neill)
his submission, congratulating the earl
and offering
Irish chiefs.
earl's
and John Norris,
These
as did
Mac
on
Gillespie,
Dungannon, and
appear to have been

friendship, as Brian
visits
purposes than those of
his
Mac
several other
made
for other
had previously
driven off all his cattle,! to the amount of thirty thousand, into
the interior of the country ; and now, seeing that the earl's forces
were not so numerous as had been reported, again rebelled,
and joined Turlough Lynogh O'Neill, and the above Hugh,

3
open rebellion.
in
The records of Carrickfergus, of this date, contain

1574.
the following interesting memorandums, which we deem highly
authentic, although in direct contradiction to all historical
we know of we therefore give them verbatim.
1574, Certaine Butlers delivered by the maior of Knockfergus
by Commission from the Lord of Essexe, unto Burkes, Clerke
authorities that
"
of the Victualls, which Butlers were by the Sayd maior taken

upp in this Towne, the 8th daye of Novembre last past, by
the commandment of the Sayd Earle, Mr. John Norryes being
Generall under the Sayd Earle heare; which 8th daye, Sur
Brian MThellime, (O'Neill) knight, chiefe of Clandeboy, &
Rowry Ogg M'Quillin, chiefe of the Route, were at Belfaste
& his Butlers, taken up by the Sayd Commandment as aforesayd, and delivered by Mr. Maior, which beareth
date the 5th of February." "June 1575, In this Sayd month
Sur Brian MThellime (O'Neill), & Rowry Ogg M'Quillin, were
The records are silent as to the
executed in this Towne." 4 *
"
Annals of
charges against those persons ; but Camden, in his
taken prisoner,

Camden's Annals nf Queen Elizabeth.
t Brian Ballagh O'Neill having preyed the cattle of the inhabitants of
Carrickfergus, they offered to ransom them by giving him a certain quantity of
wine, silk, saffron but Brian, getting hold of the wine beforehand, he "drank
the same wine," and restored not one of the cattle, which was A "greate
See
hyndrance and impediment to the sayd poore townesmen." MSS.
2
M'Skimin's Appendix.
3
Camden's Annals of Queen Elizabeth. Cox's History of Ireland.
4
Camden, in his Annals of Queen Elizabeth, states that the above
Brian and Rowry Ogg were half brothers, and that they were taken in
"
an engagement in which "two hundred I>ish were slain.
Leland, in his
History of Ireland, quotes an Irish manuscript, which has the following
strange account: "Anno 1574, a solemn peace and concord was made
26
Elizabeth," informs us that Brian had treacherously
"
and also secretly
an English captain called "Moore
formed a treaty with Turlough Lynogh O'Neill, and the
"Hebridian Scotts"
Queen
killed
earl of Essex and Felim O'Neill.

However, at a feast wherein
the earl entertained that chieftain, and at the end of their good cheer, O'Neill
and his wife were seized ; their friends who attended were put to the sword
before their faces ; Felim, together with his wife and brother, were conveyed
"
to Dublin, where they were cut up in quarters.
Review
of
the
Wars
in
in
his
Civil
Ireland, has the following
Curry,
notice on this subject, which he says is copied from an Irish manuscript in
"
Walter,
Trinity College, Dublin ; likely the same alluded to by Leland.
earl of Essex, on the conclusion of a peace, invited Bryan O'Nial, of Clandeboy, with a great number of his relations, to an entertainment, where they
lived together in great harmony, making good cheer for three days and
nights ; when on a sudden, O'Nial was surprised with an arrest, together
His friends were put to the
with his brother and wife, by the earl's order.
sword before his face, nor were the women and children spared ; he was
himself, with his brother and wife, sent to Dublin, where they were cut in
between the
quarters."
We have laid these accounts before the reader, without comment. We

acknowledge that we prefer the account given in our records they were not
written to serve any party, and appear, throughout, merely matter of fact.
[* The assassination of Sir Brian MacFelim O'Neill is also noticed in the
Annals of the Four Masters, at the year 1574. Two hundred of O'Neill's
followers, in attempting to save him, were put to the sword.]
;
CHAPTER
mentioned
III.
"
"
General John Norryes

sailed hence with a body of troops to the island of Rathlin
or Raughery, which he took from the Scots by assault,
August, the
IN
with
its
castle,
a garrison in
it
last
year,
1
ravaged the country, killed 240 men, and
to secure his conquest.
left
On the 6th of September following, Sorlebuye Mac Donnell

The garrison,
attacked this town with a considerable force.
"
consisting of
captain Norryes' and Baker's companies," also
such of the inhabitants as were able to bear arms, at length
succeeded in repulsing the Scots, after a desperate engagement,

which captain Baker and several other officers, and about
in
were killed, with Wolston Elderton, alderman,

3
Graf
town-clerk, and fourteen other inhabitants.
ton,
Gregory
In October, same year, Sir Henry Sidney, lord deputy, arrived
here with 600 horse and foot, and soon brought Mac Donnell
to submission, which was followed by that of Mac Mahon,
4
O'Donnell, Mac Guire, and Turlough Lynogh O'Neill.
100
soldiers,
Respecting the
visit
notice in our records.
"
of the deputy, we find the following

Octobre 8th, 1575, The 8th daye of
month Sur Henry Sydneye, of the most noble Order

Knyght, Lord Deputye Generall of Irelande, came unto this
Towne and made Peace with the Skotts, & delivered the
Rawghlins to ther Custody, and called home the Ward ther
5
The deputy, writing to England, on the i4th
resydent."
November, an account of this expedition, has the following
on coming near
interesting account of his journey hither
this
"
In the Confynes of this Countrie, (as I take

Belfast, he says,
6
at
it) I was offered Skermishe by Mac Neill Brian Ertaugh,
1
Records of Carrickfergus.
Camden
says 400 of the inhabitants were

in our records.
As in every other case, we prefer the account given

Camden's Annals of Queen Elizabeth.
3
killed.
2
Ware's Annals.
'The
garrison consisted of a ward and 40 men

who, for want of prohad been under the necessity of eating their horses. One of the
causes assigned by the deputy for its evacuation was the want of fresh water.
At present there are two fresh water lakes in
Rathlin, and several never-failing springs.
6
This person appears to have been Neal Mac Brian Terlagh O'Neill,
father of Con, of Castlereagh
Grand Inquisition of the County Down.
visions,
28
my
Passage over the Water
at Belfaste
which
cawsed to be
answred, and passed over without Losse of Man or Horsse,

oure
yet, by Reason of the Tydes extrordanarie Retorne,
Horsies swamme, and the Footemen, in the Passage waded
"
The Towne of Carickfergus, I found moche
nye depe."
decaied and impoverished, no Ploughes going at all, where
before were manye, and great Store of Kyne and Cattle,
beloynge to the Towne, nowe few or none lefte, Churche and
Howsies, saving Castells, burned; the Inhabiteants fled, not

leaft
rive
Howseholders
of
Couentenance
above
any
remayninge
so that their miserable
State,
and
servil
Feare,
to be pittied, yet the So comforted to heare of her Majesties

gracious Disposition to wall thir Towne (whereby they assured
was
themselves of Saffetye and quiett Dwellinge hereaftere), so that

Hope hathe, and doth procure, and drawye dyvers to resorte
and boy Id
1576.
records:
there."
In April,
"In
we
the
find
Cowrt
following
notice
in
our
Savidg, John Savidg,

My
with others were f yned for neglecting ther duty in not answering
to assist the maior, being misused in the Streate, by Captain
Soon after, a commission was sent
Loovyd & his Soldiours.
this
said
hill
'
to the mayor, the bishop of Down and Connor, and captain

William Peirs, " Seniscall of the Country," to make an inquiry
"
into this
Garboyle." By this court the soldiers were sentenced
and put out of this garrison; and captain

be disarmed in the market-place, as a note of
infamy/' and afterwards pilloried, with the following label on
to be punished,
Loovyd
"
to
his breast:
"For
assulting the maior, smytitig the Bishopp,
and for mutiny/' and afterwards banished from the town. 2

About the same time we find Turlough Lynogh O'Neill
requesting to be made free of this corporation ; but he was
afterwards dissuaded from it by his wife (widow of James
Mac Donnell), who alleged that he would not be able to keep
the oaths of admission; 3 a thing certainly not unlikely, when
we consider how often he had previously been engaged in
rebellion.
1578.
treatrrous
2
3
The
and
government
hostile
having
attempts,"

being
received
intended
account
against
"of
this
29
town, on the i6th June the lord deputy and council wrote to
the mayor, informing him of the same, and warning him to be
"
"
and to furnish them immediately
careful and circumspecte ;
1
with a state of the town, ammunition, and provisions, and also

of the people capable of bearing arms, who were directed to
"
redie and order the Walles, Towres, Rampiers, and dyches,"

as far as in their power, as for the contrary they should answer
their
at
extreme
peril.
In the records of Carrickfergus of this date,

1581.
the following interesting notices ; as they are short,
give a copy.
find
we
we
"A
By
Grey.
the L. Deputie.
Wereas we are geven to understand, that contrarie to

the Lawes and statutes of this Realme, ther ys a yearlie exacton
ymposed upon
that hir majesties
Town
of Carigfergus, called
Brcync Balafs Erick. claimed by the Lord of that Countrey,

which Irishe exaccon as it is forbidden by hir majesties Lawes,
not to be used or such lyke amongst hir majesties good subjects
so in lyke sorte
majesties
the same
and
all
v in pies,
we
straightlie
chardge and comand you
in hir
name not to yeld thereunto henceforth ; but for that

may be suppressed as a custome forbidden by Lawe,
other wrongful challandges and exaccons, as Loughe
and other Irish buyngs forbidden by Lawe. and tacken
by force and extercionable meanes, we also will and comaund

you to see the same suppressed and not heareafter to be used,
as for the contrarie doings you will aunswree at your extreme
perills, geven at hir majesties Castell of Dublin the Tenthe
of Aprill 1581.
"
To our welbeloved the
majesties
"
Towne
maior and Inhabitants
A. Grey.
"
By
Wereas we are geven
and Inhabitaunts of
of hir
of Carigfergus"
hir majesties
the
Lord Deputie.
by the maior
to understand
Towne of
Carigfergus, that
Records of Carrickferpus.
The above mentioned custom appears to have been a fragment of the
Brechon law trick, or eriach, signifying a fine, or recompense, paid for a
murder committed. See Sfens^r's Vie-w of Ireland.
3
Lottghyempie, or loughhimpy, was a fine paid by an trtnagh to the bishop
See Davis' s Historical
his diocese, on the marrriage of any of his daughters.
2
Tracts.
the
[Brian O'Neill was engaged at the time he was killed in driving from
prey of cattle belonging to the freemen of Carrickfergus,
Commons "a
'
they have byn often prayed and spoyled as well of kyne and
horses as of other goodes by Con Mac Neal Oge, whiche goodes
up and downe the contrey without any
are dispearsed
to the poore Inhabitaunts

thoughte good to authorise
restitucon
for the recovery of which we have

you and every of you to take up all
such kyne and horses, as were taken from the said Towne, and
which they shall fynd in the custodie of any hir majesties
and the same so taken up to converte to the use of

whome the said Goodes were taken for doinge
subjects,
the partie from
be your warrant ; geven at hir majesties

Castell of Dublin the loth of Aprill, 1581.
"
To our welbeloved the motor of his majesties Toii-ne of
Carigfergus and the aldermen of the. same ; and the
whereof
this
shall
inhabitants thereof"
In 1582 there "came out of France in one summer three

Barkes of forty tones a piece, discharged their lading of excellent
good Gascoygne wyne at Carrickfergus, the whiche they sowlde
for ix.
cowes skynnes the hoggeshead."
The records of this year furnish a curious account

of several marauding excursions made on the inhabitants by
"
Hugh Mac Phelimy O'Neill, Cormac O'Neill,
capten of
1583.
Kilulta," Donald Gorme Mac Donnell, and others ; for a full

account of which, in answer to their complaints, see Appendix,
No. III.
1585.
This year, two merchants of Carrickfergus were

"
plundered by
Agnus Mac Connell (Donnell}, and his People,"
on which a complaint was made to queen Elizabeth ; who,
amongst other things, wrote to king James of Scotland on this
His majesty, in his answer, dated St. Andrew's, August

same year, declares that he will have justice done in this
"
incursions and
business, and forbid the parties from making
Inroads upon that Country of Ireland," and that all persons
doing the like should be deemed guilty of treason ; and that he
would give orders to " Mac Allen," to treat them as such
Our records of May this year, contain a letter from
1591.
subject.
8th,
the lord deputy Fitzwilliam, to baron Slane, Sir
Henry Bagnell,
directing them to meet and settle the difference

between the inhabitants of this district, and Charles Egerton,
and
others,
and the
chieftains of Clanaboy continued for nearly two centuries to exact, in

for his death, a cattle fine from the unfortunate burgesses.
In
punishment
Elizabeth's time this

1
manuscript
was ^40 per annum.]

Queen Elizabeth
letter of
to
King James.
the constable of her majesty's castle here.

letter see Appendix, Xo. IV.
For a copy of said
proclamation was issued here by Christopher

governor of the Clandeboys, &c., respecting the holding
As this document, copied
of markets within his government.
from our records, is highly interesting by throwing light on the
1592.
Carleill,
general state of the counties of Down and Antrim, prior to its

being issued, we have given a correct copy of it, in Appendix,
Xo. V.
Captain Thomas Lee, writing to the queen, says,
1594.
the
English
forces
amounted only
in
"
Knockfergus and the Claneboyes,"

and 25 horse. 1 Even those appear
to 100 foot,
to have been ill paid ; as, in October the following year, the
troops here mutinied for want of provisions, and, taking their
arms, proceeded to leave the town.
meeting of the inhabitants
was immediately held

Charden, bishop of
them some
cattle off
to provide for their relief
when John
Down and
Connor, then residing here, gave

his manor of Kilroot, which put a stop to
this mutiny. -
Xovember 4th, James Mac Sorely Mac Donnell

1597.
came near this town with a body of armed men, daring the
garrison; when Sir John Chichester, governor, marched out to
attack the enemy, with such troops of the garrison as could lie
On this movement, Mac Donnell retreated ; and Sir
spared.
John, in the pursuit, fell into an ambuscade of Highlanders,

3
placed in the glen of Altfrackyn. The party were instantly
surrounded, and nearly cut to pieces ; and Sir John, being
taken prisoner, was beheaded by Mac Donnell, on a stone, near
"
the Glynn." 4
The distracted state of the country at this time, is
1600.
evident from an extract of a letter from Sir Arthur Chichester
1
Curry's Review of the Civil Wars in Ireland.

Altfrackyn is the Old Mill Glen, near Red-hall, on the estate of Richard
Gervas Ker, Esq.

[The Red-hall property remained in the family of Kerr until the I5th of
January, 1869, when it and other properties of David Stewart Kerr were sold
by order of the Landed Estates Court. The purchaser of Red-hall and part
In 1902 Red-hall was bought
of Aldfrick and Forthill was John Macauley.
by W. J. Porrit, of Torside and St. Ann's-on-the-Sea, in Lancashire.]
4
In the following reign, Mac Donnell, having
Lodge's Peerage MSS.
obtained his pardon, and being in Carrickfergus, went to see the family
monument of the Chichesters, in St. Nicholas' Church and seeing the effigy
of Sir John Chichester, asked "how the deil he cam to get his head again?
for he was sure he had ants taen it frae him."
Lodge's Peerage.
;
32
to the lord deputy Mountjoy, dated from Carrickfergus in May,
"
in which he says,
divers Gentlemen and others did daily fly
from the Rebels, and resort unto him with their Goods, to the
Number of 1200 Cows, and more would come, but that he
That to free himself of the
doubted their Faithfulness.
to
Mac
Imputation
keep James
Sorley an Enemy till he had
him
Brothers
he had imployed Colonel
on
his
Death,
revenged
Egerton to invite that Rebel to Submission, but received only
temporizing Answers ; whereupon, according to his Lordship's
Directions, he had written and sent a Messanger of purpose to
the Lord of Clantier an Islander Scot, to
James
Mac
stir
him up against
possessing
Sorley,
wrongfully
Inheritance in those Parts of Ireland;
offering
"
so as he
his
rightful
join the
would after
to
Queens Forces under his command,"

"
but still,
yield due Tribute and Obedience to her Majesty ;
as the king of Scots threatened to march against the said lord,
he feared that he would not be able to embrace this advantageous
"
That he had received Con Mac Xeal,
offer.
Sir Arthur adds,
the son of Xeal Mac Brian, and his Horsemen, into her Majestys
Pay, and would shortly waste his Father's Country, whence
Brian Mac Art (O'Neill) and some 400 Bonnaghts, (or hired
The lord deputy, in his
Soldiers), were maintained and fed."
answer to the above, of the i5th June, directs Sir Arthur to
"
receive no more Irish,
but such as would simply submit and
"
and
that he should treat with the Island
give good Pledges ;
1
Scots, and Shane O'Neill.
August, same year, the lord deputy, and all other English
commanders in Ulster, in order to suppress the rebels, proceeded
to burn the houses of the Irish, with all corn and other grain,
that they could not at that time use or carry off.
In furtherance
of this work of destruction, about the above period, Sir Arthur
Chichester. with the troops of this garrison, laid waste all the
Those burnings
country within twenty miles of this town.*
were succeeded by a dreadful famine, in which many thousands

of the wretched inhabitants died of hunger ; and the miseries of
the few who survived, appear to have been attended with acts
too horrid for recital.
1
Moryson, from
whom we
quote,
says,
Moryson's History of Ireland.

Sir Arthur Chichester was preparing for the plantation he spared
neither "house, corn3, nor creature
of what quality, age, or sex
slew
all four-footed animals in their
he
soever;
farmyards, hurned the stacks
of grain, and in the spring time mowed down the growing crops."]
[*When
33
that in the following year, Sir Arthur Chichester saw children
eating their starved mother; and adds, that many people were
found dead about the fields and ditches, with their mouths
green
by eating herbs,
by which they had endeavoured to
1
prolong their wretched existence.
1601.
Early in June, Sir Arthur Chichester marched
hence with troops in garrison, and on the i8th same month,
and receiving a
joined the lord deputy near Blackstaff;
reinforcement of 200 foot for this garrison, he returned here

a few days after. 2
About this time we find this corporation
"
"
to Sir Arthur Chichester,

statutes
presenting a number of
governor, for his approval; for which see Appendix, No. VI.
In July, same year, Sir Arthur Chichester proceeded hence

against Brian Mac Art O'Neill, and took his castle of Castlereagh ; and in the following year, he marched with a part of
the garrison to Lough Neagh, and crossing it, joined the lord
deputy near Dungannon, and assisted in building the fort of

3
Mountjoy, of which he was made governor.
Con
1603.
O'Neill, chief of south or upper Clandeboy,
was that of Castlereagh, was confined here the

cause of his detention was as follows. Having about Christmas,
1602, a "grand Debauch" at Castlereagh, "with his brothers,
friends, and followers," he sent his servants to Belfast for more
wine; but in returning, a quarrel took place between them and
some English soldiers, near the Knock church,! and they lost
their wine.
Con inquiring into this transaction, learned from
themselves that their numbers exceeded that of the soldiers
on which he swore " by his father, and the souls of his
ancestors," they should never be servants of his till they had
whose
castle
"
buddagh Sassenagh soldiers." On this threat they

armed, and attacked the soldiers, several of whom
were killed in the affray; and Con was soon after taken up
beaten the
returned,
as
an
abettor,
and
sent prisoner to Carrickfergus castle.
The
was soon mitigated by a

permission to walk through the town during the day, attended
by a soldier, who returned him to the provost-marshal at night.
of
severity
He
at
his
length
first
confinement
obtained his
liberty
Thomas Montgomery, master

1

[t Now Holy wood.]
2
3
of
in the
"
following manner.
"
which traded
barque
34
thither
with meal
for the
garrison,
was employed by
endeavour to
Hugh
1
Con's escape.
Having got letters conveyed to Con, acquainting him of the
steps about to be taken, he began by making love to Annas
Montgomery,
his relation, to
effect
Dobbin, daughter of the provost-marshal; and marrying her,

through her effected Con's escape, who was conveyed on board
2*
Montgomery's vessel, and landed at Largs, in Ayrshire.
February 25th, we find the corporation presenting

"
Greeffes" to the lord deputy, Sir Arthur
1605,
number of
Chichester, against the provost-marshal, the constable of his

majesty's castle, and the receiver of the king's customs; for
which, with his answer, see Appendix, No. VII.
July 2pth,
the following year, the lord deputy, from his camp at
"
Monaghan, directs the mayor to levy Ten good and marketable
beeves," on this corporation, for the use of the army ; for which
"
6s. 8d. each, in
beeves they were to receive
harpes," as
from
should
come
as
soon
England.
money
î
1 2th, five dissenting

ministers having been
by Henry Leslie, Bishop of Down and Connor,
not subscribing the Church Canons, resolved, with others, to
1636, August
deposed
for
at Belfast
"
proceed to N^w England. Having got a vessel called the EagleWing," of nbout 115 tons burden [built at Groomsport], on the
9th of September the Rev. Robert Blair, Rev. John Livingston,
Rev. Robert Hamilton, and the Rev. John M'Clelland, with
about 140 other persons, amongst whom was John Stuart, Provost
In 1605, Con obtained his pardon

family.
the suit of the above Hugh Montgomery, and James
for iheir effecting of his escape, and this service, he had pre;
viously made over most of his lands to them, of which they immediately
obtained a new pa ent from the crown. April 25, 1606, we find Con granting the land j of Ha lyioskoye, in the Galltugh, between Castlereagh and
homas Montgomery, probably the above-mentioned Thomas, for
Belfast, to a
Grand Inqtiisition of the County Down.
his share in effecting his escape.
1
MSS.
of the
from James I.,

Hamilton hut
Montgomery
a<
MSS.
of the
Montgomery family.
who effected his escape. She had appointed a boat
come from Bangor, and one day she came int the castle (she having access
him when she would) with two cheeses, the inside being taken out and filled
with cords, by which he might let himself out of the window at such a time
[Ît was Con's wife
to
to
when, by moonlight, he might see the boat ready. In it he was conveyed to

Bangor church, and hid in an old steeple till he was conveyed to Scoiland.
In 1637. Uichard Spearpoint, Mayor, made a surrender of the third part
of the customs to ihe Crown for ^3,000, which was to have been laid out in
the purchase o lands for the use of this corporation; but no lands were purchased.
.1,300 of this m6ney was lent on interest to John Davys, of Carrickfergus, who bougi t an estate, and when called to account by the corporation
Gills MSS.
ivy. he brought them in one shilling in debt.
respecting the
35
of Ayr, sailed from our bay; but, meeting with violent storms
when near Newfoundland, they were beaten back, and returned
on the 3rd November. They were soon after obliged to fly into
Scotland from the persecution raised against them by the said

bishop.
1
Stafford's Letters.
Life of Rev.
John Livingston.
THE COMMON SEAL OF CARRICKFERGUS
CHAPTER
IV.
1639, we find noconnected with Carrickfergus, that we deem of

sufficient interest to lay before the reader in this division
the last mentioned period until
FROM
event
In the above year, this place was highly conspicuous

in the events of that period. The impolitic conduct of Charles I.
having goaded the Scottish Covenanters into acts of resistance
of the work.
to the measures of the crown,
in the counties of
been
many
Down and
of them sought an asylum

Though Charles had
Antrim.
at length unsuccessful in his attempts to force
upon the
Scottish nation,
hostility to the
Covenant,
episcopacy
and compelled to relinquish

still
its
all
open
adherents in Ireland justly
dreaded molestation from that quarter; Earl Strafford, whose

conduct had been already marked by intolerance and oppression,
Nor were their fears ill
being continued Lord Deputy.
founded, for, about the beginning of May, i.ooo foot and 500horse were ordered to Carrickfergus, to press upon the Scottish
settlers an oath against their revered Covenant ; or, in the
smooth language of Strafford, to look on, whilst the oath was.

proceedings created the greatest alarm
and disaffection, and some incautious persons near Larne,
having been betrayed by a spy into intemperate language, were
administered.* These
taken prisoners in May, and sent off to Dublin for examination.

of these persons named Trueman, was soon after
transmitted
here for trial,
found guilty, and executed.
One
Respecting this affair, which even Strafford, in his letter to"

"
"
extreme vain ;
Sir John
foolish," and
secretary Coke, calls
afterwards
Earl
of
made
the
Massereene,
Clotworthy,
following
That one
deposition on the trial of the Earl of Strafford.
Trueman, an Englishman, who dwelt near Carrickfergus, was

sent about the country to find out those who were attached to
"
that he spake with one Captain Giles, who feigned
the Scots
:
-"
This was the "Black Oath," for a copy of which see "Reid's
[
History
of the Presbyterian Church," vol. i., p. 247.]
tradition. Hume's History of England. Strafford's Letters. Adair'sMS^
37
himself a great friend to the Scottish nation; and said, that
he conceived that they were greatly distressed, and wished that
he could use means whereby they might be eased; hence he
discoursed with Trueman, who was but a silly fellow, and got
from him words whereby he discovered a goodwill to the Scotch
"
nation, and some discourse about the Castle of Carrickfergus ;
and at length " he got Trueman's letter to recommend him into
Scotland, whither he pretended a desire to go, to serve under
their command."
Giles afterwards produced this letter on
Trueman's trial, who a few days after suffered death as
*
related.
On the scaffold he made a speech, in which he
disclosed how he had been betrayed by Giles, and, pointing to
Scotland, he said that his death would yet be avenged by that
He was hanged, and being cut up in quarters, they
country.
were placed over the four gates of the town, and his head on a
MS. About this time the Earl
pole on the top of the castle.
of Antrim resided in Carrickfergus.
Writing to the Lord
him that his cousin,
on
the
i6th
of
he
informs
Deputy,
May,
"
Sir Donnell Gorme M'Donnell, had arrived from
Kentire and
Ila," with at least 100 gentlemen of the same name, besides
their servants, in all about
He
requests that the

"
off
the goods and
300 men, for his Majesty's service.

Deputy would order them to be maintained
lands of those that have estates in this
kingdom and have forsaken it, that are well known

Covenanters."
His request was not complied with. 2
be
to
Early in this year rumours were industriously

that
the disaffected in Scotland intended to invade
circulated,
This report was made the
the northern part of this kingdom.
1640.
pretext for raising 8,000

in July were assembled
Irish
Roman
Catholic troops,
who
Carrickfergus, and afterwards

distributed along the coast opposite Scotland. Ships of war also
cruised in the channel to alarm the Scots, and if an opportunity
offered, to land these Irish troops near the entrance of the
at
For some time the soldiers were employed in casting

Clyde.
up entrenchments, as if to repel an invasion! ; but the real
object was to land them in Scotland, to oppose the Covenanters.
The
of
plan, however, failed
his
affairs
in
England,
the King, from the desperate state

being obliged to enter into an
Strafford's Letters.
Some entrenchments
cast
up by them
at Olderfleet still remain.
38
ignominious compromise with the Scotch insurgents, so that this

army was rendered useless. The raising of those troops highly
incensed the English parliament, and heightened the discontent
It was discovered that had his
of the Protestants in Ireland.
Majesty's plan
succeeded,
12,000
additional
Roman
Catholic
were to have been embodied for an invasion of England,

to assist the king against the parliament.
Disappointed in this
soldiers
grand
project,
Charles
now
entered into negotiation with the

men into his service, but
king of Spain, to take 4,000 of these
the parliament objected strongly to this measure, and they were
disembodied in September. l
On the 24th January, a treaty was entered into1641.
with the Scottish commissioners in England, for 1,500 auxiliary
His majesty Charles
troops to garrison this town and castle.
I. objected to the third article, as prejudicial to the interest of
the crown; but at length yielded to it on the remonstrance of
He perhaps relinquished his objections

the more readily that it had been agreed he was to have the
appointment of all the officers of this army, by which measure
the said commissioners.
he hoped to get rid of the most troublesome persons in Scotland,

and also please their countrymen at the same time. 2 On the
6th August, this year, another treaty was entered into with the
Scots, by which the number of troops was to be augmented to3
For a copy of the first treaty, which only differed
io,ooo.
from the second in the number of men to be employed, see
Appendix, No. VIII.

1641.
Saturday, October 23rd, about ten o'clock on this
night, Colonel
Arthur Chichester, governor, received intelligence
of the intended rebellion, on which he ordered fires to be kindled

on the eminences near the town, and the drums of the garrison
to be beaten,
1
to
warn the neighbouring Protestants of
their
Godwin's History of the Commonwealth Charles

secret instructions to the Earls of Ormond and Antrim, requiring
had sent
army should not be disembodied.

November, 1641, his Majesty then at Edinburgh, created his enemy,,
the Marquis of Hamilton, a duke, and General Lesley, whom he had previously appointed chief commander of those troops, Earl of Leven. The latter
was so transported with this unexpected and unmerited honour, that he pro" he would never after bear arms
tested upon his knees
against he king."
that this
2
In
He soon forgot his promise. Nalson. On the 8th of April, 1642, his Majesty
sent a message to parliament, declaring his intention to go to Ireland to command those troops against the rebels, on which both Houses presented
petitions that he would not then visit Ireland ; he then relinquished his purCox's History of Ireland.
pose.
3
Memoirs of the Dukes of Hamilton.
39
In the course of the following day great numbers of
danger.
Protestants arrived from the country, bringing with them their
Some of these were immediately armed,

most valued effects.
formed into companies, and commanded by the most respectable
gentlemen who had fled here for safety ; while from the crowded
state of the
town many families
left
it
by sea for Scotland.
On
the evening of the 24th, Colonel Arthur Hill arrived, having

escaped from his house with difficulty.!
Sir Henry Mac O'Neill was to have surprised Carrickfergus, but from the early vigilance of the governor no attempt
brother of Sir Henry's, Teigh
of that kind was made.
O'Hara, and some other leading persons among the Irish, being
sent for by the governor, were made prisoners on their arrival,
About the same time, Art Oge
lest they should join the rebels.
O'Neill, of the Fuagh (Fevagh), came in to testify his loyalty,
but on his being dismissed he joined the rebels, and drew many
to their ranks.
On
the 25th, Colonel Chichester proceeded with about 300

to Belfast, leaving Captain Roger Lyndon, with only 50
to defend this garrison.
At Belfast he was joined by 150 men
men
from Antrim, and on the following day he set out for Lisburn,
but an alarm arising, that the rebels had marched from Glenavy
This alarm
to attack Carrickfergus, he returned to Belfast.
proved to be merely an attack on the house of Mr. Spencer,
Trumery,
in
Chichester was
which
now
the
rebels
joined by Sir
were
beaten
Colonel
off.
Thomas Lucas,
Sir Arthur
Tyrningham, Captain Blunt, and Captain Armstrong ; on the

27th he marched to Lisburn, which had been appointed a
general rendezvous of the Protestants, who on this occasion
amounted to about i.ooo men, but without order or discipline.
On the 28th, Colonel Chichester, with his own division, Lord
Conway's horse, and a troop under Captain Edmonston,
proceeded towards Dromore to reconnoitre, and saw at some
distance several parties of rebels in woods and bogs, but
that they could not be attacked without great
disadvantage, on the following day they returned to Lisburn ;
and on the 3ist, all the Protestant corps returned to their former
perceiving
quarters.
1
About
this
Carte's Life of the
Duke
time,
of
Alexander
M'Donnell,
alias.
Ormond.
This person married a daughter of Cahal O'Hara, Creabilly, and

from him the Shanecastle family cf O'Neill are descended. MS.
[
Ibid.
* Near Lough
Neagh. ]
4o
an experienced soldier, being sent for to Scotland, by

Friar Patrick O'Donnell, a Jesuit, landed at Olderfleet.
His
arrival coming to the ears of Colonel Chichester and Lord
Collkitto,
Montgomery, a party of horse was despatched to bring him
On
prisoner to Carrickfergus.
his being taken
he made
many
fair promises and protestations of his innocence, and attachment

to the government, and Archibald Stuart, agent to the Earl of
Antrim, becoming security for his behaviour, he was liberated,

and immediately joined the disaffected in the Route.
Soon
Friar O'Donnell was detected carrying a letter to Sir
Phelim O'Neill, on which he was made prisoner, and confined
here on the 23rd November.
At this period, a large quantity
of arms and ammunition arrived at Carrickfergus, from Carlisle,
after,
for the use of the Protestants. 1
Next to Carrickfergus, the chief places of refuge for the

Protestants, in the county of Antrim, were the towns of Belfast,
Lisburn, Antrim, and Larne; with the castellated houses of
2
Edenduffcarrick, and Carncastle.

But by the beginning of December, the Roman Catholic troops
of Bryan M'Cormic, Art Oge O'Neill, Con Oge O'Neill, and
Temp lep at rick,
Ballycastle,
Toal O'Neill, were so completely masters of the country, that

they ravaged the houses of the Protestants, within sight of
Even within view of Carrickfergus the rebels
those places. 3
wasted the country with fire and sword, leaving not one house
4
standing on the lands of Captain Roger Lyndon ; and in the
interior of the county of Antrim, 954 Protestants are stated to
have been butchered in one morning, and about 1,100 or 1,200
5
afterwards, during the course of the rebellion.
In the meantime, several regiments were embodied from the
Protestants who had fled to the above places.

Those of Sir
John Clotworthyj Lord Comvay, Colonel Arthur Chichester,
Archibald Stuart, and a body of horsemen under
Adair,
2
3
4
5
life of the Duke

MSS. Rawdon Papers.
MS. Rawdon Papers.
Carte's
of
Ormond.
Temple's
Irish Rebellion.
Belfast News-Letter, 176.

Depositions of Dr. Robert Maxwell.
which the Irish bore against everything

and cattle belonging to the latter were
wantonly squandered and destroyed, which caused a scarcity of food, and the
refusal of the rebels to bury the mangled corpses of their victims caused a
Reid's History, vol. i.,
pestilential fever to break out, and many died."
["Owing
to the reckless malice
British, the valuable stores of corn
P- 329-]
of Ballymena, are particularly mentioned for their valuable

services against the enemy. 1
On the evening or night of Sunday, January 8th,*
1642.
some horsemen belonging to one of the newly raised corps,

attached to the garrison of Carrickfergus, sallied out to the
neighbouring district of Island Magee, and massacred a number
of Roman Catholic
Magee
came
The oral history of Island

inhabitants.
that
were horsemen, who
declares
the
assassins
clearly
from Carrickfergus, and that this horrid deed was
2
for
the
murderous aggressions
retaliation
perpetrated in
committed by the Roman Catholics in other places. It is also
stated on the same traditional authority, that this massacre began
at the isthmus which connects Island Magee with the parish of
Braidisland, where a small rivulet is called Slaughter-ford, in
memory of the tragical event; that some of the sufferers were
driven over the Gabbons, a dreadful precipice on the south east
part of the island; and that several Roman Catholics were
preserved in a corn kiln by a Dissenter named Hill, some of
whose descendants still reside in the parish.
That " this deed of dreadful note " was perpetrated in
retaliation for similar excesses committed by the opposite party,
is
amply confirmed by the
historical evidences still in existence
We
shall therefore notice

relating to that unfortunate period.
a few of the most memorable massacres that preceded that of
Island Magee ; limiting our inquiries to those of the County
of Antrim.
On
"
Irish
the night of the 2nd January, 1642 (New Style), some

Highlanders "^ belonging to a newly raised regiment,
Cox's History of Ireland, MS.

It is to be observed that prior to September, 1752, the year in Great
Britain and Ireland, usually began on the 25th March, instead of the 1st
However, it appears that there was often no regular period for its
January.
commencement, which has been the cause of much confusion in modern
Those who began the year in March, generally, antedated events
history.
thus with them the year 1000 commenced 25th March, 999.
Others began
the year on the 25th December
and some at Easter, and varied the beginof
the
as
Easter
varied.
ning
year
Gentleman's Magazine, 1788.
1
"
In
" Morrison' !
History of Ireland" frequent mention
1
"
Style" and
is
made of " Old
New
Style," in treating of events which took place in 1601-2,

and in " Thurloiv's Slate Papers" some of the official letters are dated " Old
"
New Style" and in many old books we find dates marked
Style" some
Hence our Chronology is still in confusion from the
thus, 1701-2, or 170^.
uncertainty of dates.
2
MSS.
Trinity College, Dublin, lettered,
t Irish Mountaineers.
"County
of Antrim."
42
commanded by Archibald
company, and some
Stuart,
British
rose
of the
on
same
Captain
corps,
Glover's-
who
were
quartered in the parish of Billy, and massacred of them to the

number of sixty. The same night was also marked by a similar
"
Irish Highlanders" under the
bloody transaction. A body of
orders of Turlough
O'Cahan, Alister M'Coll M'Donnell
and
M'Coll
M'Donnell, surprised a party of
James
(Collkitto),
Archibald Stuart's regiment, under the command of Captain
Fergus M'Dowell, who were stationed at Portna, on the Bann

side, and massacred between sixty and eighty of them in their
On the 5th the same body
beds, without the least resistance.
of rebels continued their ravages through the Route, putting all
In their
Protestants to the sword from Portna to Ballintoy.
progress they made a furious attack on the mansion house of
the latter place, which was bravely defended by Archibald Boyd,
Mr. Fullerton, and a few Protestants who had escaped thither ;
and the
rebels finding that there was little chance of its speedy

surrender, after firing a few shots from their cannon, retired toCraigbalinoe. On the following day they proceeded to Dunluce,
and summoned
that fortress to surrender, but Captain Digby,

governor, refusing to comply, they burned the village of Dunluce
and proceeded towards Oldstone, or Clough. By the way they
were met by Art Oge O'Neill with his company, and uniting
their forces, they advanced against the castle of Oldstone.
"
Walter Kennedy, governor, parlying with the rebels, declared,
that he would never surrender a M'Donnell's castle to an
on which Colonel M'Donnell (Collkitto) advanced,

swearing by the Cross of his sword, and the honour of a
gentleman, that none in the place should suffer in body or
O'Neill,"
"
and
Immediately after, the women

goods," the castle was given up.
and children found in the fortress were taken down the valley
towards Glenravil water, and butchered on the banks of that
1
river by Toole M'Hugh O'Hara.
The accounts of these massacres would probably reach
Carrickfergus in a day or two after their perpetration, when
the tidings could not fail to excite a deep interest, and while
the feelings of the inhabitants and soldiers were yet agitated
and warm, stir up a spirit of retaliation, which unfortunately
appears to have burst forth immediately after in the horrid

Their thirst for vengeance was perhaps
affair in Island Magee.
1
MSS.
Trinity College, Dublin, lettered,
"
County Antrim."
43
heightened by the circumstance that many of those then doing
military service in Carrickfergus were from the lower part of
the County of Antrim, who had been driven from their homes
by the rebels, and who, probably, at this time expected to hear
of the murder of some relation or friend.
This conjecture is
measure confirmed by the fact that, on an inquiry

after, it appeared that these very persons who
committed the massacre in Island Magee, were from the
Yet as if the truth regarding
neighbourhood of Ballymena.
in a great
some years
this transaction did not sufficiently disgrace its perpetrators,
has been
it
made
the subject of the grossest misrepresentation.

It
even continues to be mentioned as the first massacre committed
unhappy period, the cause of all the subsequent murders,

and the sufferers stated to have amounted to upwards of 3,000
at that
persons
!*
We
shall here farther inquire into this transaction,
particularly as to the time
it
happened, and the numbers slain ;

facts of the case from sources
and afterwards point out the

little
known to the public.

The earliest account in which
the Protestants are charged
as being the aggressors in the barbarities of 1641-2, appears in

"
an
entitled
THE
POLITICIAN'S
pamphlet
anonymous
CATECHISM," by R. S., printed and published in London, in

1662; twenty-one years after the events are said to have
A short paragraph
happened, which it pretends to describe.
in this tract has been the basis of all the gross misrepresentations
It is as follows.
that have been published on this subject.
the beginning of November, 1641, the English and

Scotch forces in Knockfergus, murdered, in one night, all the
"About
inhabitants of the territory of Island Magee, in number above

three thousand, men, women, and children, all innocent persons,
when none of the Catholics of that country were in

arms or rebellion." To this article is added the following note.
"
This was the first massacre committed in Ireland, on either
in a time
Here we plainly perceive gross misstatements, it being

notorious that the rebellion began on the 23d of the previous
October, and that the 24th of that month was marked on the
side."
part of the
Roman
Catholics,
of the period in question.
"
by
all
the sanguinary atrocities
View of the
See Memoirs of Captain Rock.
Question, by Sir Francis W. M'Naghten, pages So and 81.
1
Borlase's Irish Rebellion.
Roman
Catholic
44
worthy of remark, that the season chosen for the
publication of this slanderous and anonymous pamphlet, was
truly auspicious; the tide was turning fast from Puritanism to
Popery ; the Roman Catholics were a considerable body at court,
It
is
and both
the
King and
the
Duke
evinced their partiality for that
of York had by several acts
faith.i
Some years after the publication of this pamphlet by R. S.,

was bound up as an appendix to Lord Clarendon's " HISTORY
OF THE AFFAIRS OF IRELAND," * doubtless, for the purpose of
giving its falsehoods weight and publicity, by their being
attached to a work bearing on its title the high authority of
his lordship's name.
it
Of the slanders thus propagated the Protestants of that

time appear to have been well aware.
Sir Audley Mervin,
of
the
Irish
House
in
of
Commons,
speaker
addressing the Duke
of Ormond, i3th February, 1662, says, "The Roman Catholics
of this kingdom may get a reputation and credit to those
pamphlets which they have dispersed through Europe, that his
Majesty's Protestant subjects first fell upon and murdered them."
The next notice we have observed, on the same side, is
"
THE GENUINE HISTORY

contained in a small work entitled,
OF IRELAND," said on its title to be written by Hugh Reilly
In this tract it is
Nary), printed in London, in 1742.
that the massacre in Island Magee happened early in
(Dr.
said
November, 1641, and that the number of sufferers amounted to

between two and three thousand persons ; but it is admitted that
the rebellion began on the 23d October, 1641.
Incorrect as these accounts are, as to the time and the
number murdered, they are nevertheless repeated in a work

"A DIALOGUE OF THE REBELLION OF 1641,"
"
MEMOIRS
published in 1747 ; and also in a book entitled
OF IRELAND, IN A LETTER TO WALTER HARRIS, ESQ.," printed
entitled
in 1757.
of Lord
similar statement
Clarendon,
Dublin
printed
in
Roman
Catholic,
IRELAND,"
in
in
in
his
published
in
Hume's History
is
also given, on the authority
"
DESIDERATA CURIOSA HIBERNICA,"

1772; and likewise by Dr. Curry, a
"
REVIEW OF THE CIVIL WARS OF
1775.
Francis
Plowden,
Esq.,
an
of England.
was in 1720 that the pamphlet of R.S. was reprinted by H. Wilford,

and bound up as an appendix to the work of Lord Clarendon. See " Fiction
[* It
Unmasked,"
p. 166.]
45
English
Roman
Catholic Barrister, also asserts the same in hisHISTORICAL VIEW OF THE STATE OF IRELAND,"
1803, in which, when noticing the bloody affair in
"
ponderous
printed in
"
Island Magee, he says,
the truth of the fact is supported on
"
the high authority of Lord Clarendon ;
thus taking the
advantage of the falsehoods of the pamphlet of R. S., for his

Lord Clarendon says
lordship's work states the very reverse.
"
the rebellion began on a
the
sudden, upon
23d day of October,
1641, without the least pretence of quarrel or hostility, so much
"
and that within the space
as apprehended by the Protestants ;
of ten days from the breaking out of the rebellion, the Roman
"
had
Catholics
massacred
an
increditable
number
of
Protestants."
Dr. Milner, an English Roman Catholic Prelate, has also

"
the same erroneous statement, in his
INQUIRY," published
made
Lord Clarendon as his authority; although, in

lordship's work is a complete refutation of his
A still later work, by an Irish Roman Catholic,
in 1803, giving
reality, his
assertions.
contains similar information; he gravely tells his readers, that,

he will not disgust them with an account of that atrocious
down
the terrible vengeance inflicted by the

sanguinary enemies. This is saying pretty plainly
that the Protestants were the aggressors.
massacre, nor set

Irish
on
their
"
REMONparticularly worthy of remark, that the

STRANCE," of the Roman Catholics, presented to the King's
Commissioners at Trim, in March, 1642, takes no notice of any
It
is
murders committed in Island Magee; nor

of them in the
"
HUMBLE APOLOGY "
is
of the
any mention made
Roman
Catholics
to his Majesty, for their taking up arms ; nor yet in the second
"
REMONSTRANCE," presented to the king. From their silence
this head, we may fairly infer, that had their accounts of
the massacre been true, as to time and numbers, it would have
on
formed a chief
but in them all.
feature,
not only in one of these documents,
It is not a little remarkable that Protestant writers should"

have inadvertently fallen into a portion of the same error, as
to numbers, and have ascribed this massacre to the fanaticism
of the Scotch Puritan soldiers, when it appears from several
historical documents, that no Scotch troops arrived at Carrick"
l
LIFE OF THE
Carte, in his
fergus till the following April.
1
Duke
Thurloe's Statt Papers.

of
Ormond.
Carte's Life of the
46
DUKE OF ORMOND,"
mentions the massacre as committed by the
garrison of Carrickfergus, but speaks with uncertainty as to the
main
"
Dr. Leland, in his

HISTORY OF
dispute.
IRELAND," says that thirty families were massacred, but states
it to have been committed
early in January, 1642, "when the
points
followers
of
in
O'Neill
had almost exhausted
their
barbarous
Since the time that Leland wrote the minor Protestant
malice."
appear to have contented themselves with merely

quoting from one or the other of those authors.
Some years after the suppression of the rebellion of 1641-2,
this massacre, among other matters, attracted the notice of
government, and about 1650, an inquiry concerning it took
historians
place.
Bryan Magee, son of Owen, whose family was among
the chief sufferers, deposed, that about the 8th of January, 1641
(1642, according to our present calculation), he was living in

father's house in Island Magee, when nine of the family
his
were murdered by twenty persons, reputed Scotchmen, and their

goods carried off by them. That on the same day, in the house
of his next neighbour, Daniel Magee, the same Scotchmen (as
one who escaped told him,) killed Daniel, and ten other persons;
and that they
all
retired to Carrickfergus with prisoners
that Colonel Hill not being in the garrison, the

them out of the gate, and killed three of them.
but
Scotchmen took
Elizabeth Gormally, deposed seeing Bryan Boye Magee, son

of the Magees, followed by drummers of the garrison of Carrickfergus, on the Monday after the great murder, committed about
the end of December, and after the breaking out of the rebellion.
Finlay O'Donnell, deposed that

country,
that
the
chief
actors
in
it
was the report of the
this horrid business
were
Scotchmen,* who came from
the neighbourhood of Ballymena.

Another deponent also stated the same report, with the name of
the leader of the murderers, who it is said was from Ballymena.
Some of
the deponents also gave the sirnames of several of
the assassins, with the weapons used by them ; and relate that
one of the ruffians stabbing at a female with a dagger, killed
an infant in her arms.
The deposition of James Mitchel, of Island Magee, a

Dissenter, corresponds exactly, as to the time of the massacre,
1
by stating that it was in the afternoon of Sunday, 8th January.
*
In some parishes of the County Antrim, the people still distingiish the
by the terms of Scotch and Irish.
MSS. Trinity College, Dublin, lettered, "County Ai trim."
different religious persuasions

1
47
While we must all deplore this horrid deed, we must also

reprobate that malignant spirit which even yet continues to
advance such gross exaggerations, which we think is sufficiently
apparent, even from the general population of the parish at
In 1599, Fynes Moryson states, that the Island of
Magee was desolate; and between that time and 1641, there was
that period.
tranquility, Tyrone's rebellion having rendered the greater

of
Ulster literally a desert.
part
By the returns of the census
of 1819, Island Magee then only contained 1,931 inhabitants;
little
and by that of 1821, 2,300 persons, probably eighteen or twenty

times the number of people at the period of the massacre; and
we see that some of them were Dissenters, and that a number
of
Roman
Catholics were preserved.
Before taking leave of this subject, it may not be amiss to

remark how easily 30 could be altered to 3,000, the number in
the pamphlet of R. S. ; in which pamphlet the small peninsula
"
of Island Magee is called a territory," & word generally understood to signify a large tract of country, rather than a mere
stripe,
without either hamlet or village.
Judging, therefore, by
the depositions of the survivors, the probability is that thirty

individuals were not under the number who suffered. *
Froude and Reid also emphasise the following points
I. That only
most lost their lives on the occasion referred to. Froude's
2. That the raid was made in January, 1641-2.
i., p. 117.
Ibid, i., p. 117.
3 That the Scotch Presbyterian soldier- were not in CarrickReid's History of the Presbyterian Church
fergus until the following April.
[
~*
thirty people at the

English in Ireland,
in Ireland, vol
i.,
p.
328, note.]
CHAPTER
V.
2d,f two thousand five hundred Scottish

under
the command of General Robert Munroe,
auxiliary troops,
landed at Carrickfergus ; and, agreeable to previous stipulations,
the town and castle were delivered to their charge. 1
On the
27th of the same month, General Monroe marched with a
considerable body of those troops for Malone ; and on the
following day he was joined by the united forces of Lord
Con way and Colonel Arthur Chichester, consisting of i.ooo foot,
and 5 troop of horse. Proceeding to Lisburn, they were met at
that place by 800 foot, and 2 troops of cavalry, under the
orders of Lords Clandeboy and Ards ; and dividing their forces,
1642,
April
Munroe advanced with 1,600 foot, and 5 troops of horse, to

the pass of Kilwarlin, where he defeated the forces of Lord
Iveagh, amounting to 2,500 foot, and 60 horse, 150 of whom
were slain. After this encounter, Munroe again united his forces,
and on the 3oth reached Loughbrickland, where he took an
and killed 60 rebels. 2 May 3d, he advanced towards
Xewry, near which town he was for a short time opposed by
island,
a body of insurgents,
wood ; and
whom
he defeated at the entrance of a

"
put 60 men, 1 8 women, and

a garrison of 300 men,
and
there
;
leaving
under Lieutenant Colonel Sinclair, on the 6th he proceeded to
Armagh. The city was then held by Sir Phelim O'Neill, who
aware of the approach of Munroe, evacuated the place, having
previously massacred a considerable number of Protestants, and
set fire to the city and its venerable cathedral. 3
On the yth he
set out on his return to Carrickfergus, and passing into the
County of Down, he ravaged the country of Lord Iveagh, and
entering Newry, he
2 priests to death
"
the Dufferin, or Mac Cartan's country, taking 4,000 cattle, with

other plunder, which were to have been equally divided among
Cox says April I5th.

Thurloe's State Papers.
MS. Cox's History of Ireland.
3
Life of the Rev. John Levingston.
Warner's History of the Irish
Rebellion.
Carle's Life of the Duke of Ormond.
|
1
49
the different portions of the army on their arrival at CarrickBut the night before this division was to have taken
fergus.
place, Munroe shipped all off to Scotland, to the great discontent
of the other corps who had served with him, and who, in
l
consequence, never after liked to serve under his command.
On the 1 6th June, Munroe being strengthened by the forces

of Sir John Clotworthy, made another plundering excursion,
with a force of 3,450 foot, and 5 troops of horse.
Proceeding
northward he burned Glenarm, and drove off the cattle from the
country, and in his progress was met by the Earl of Argyle's
from Rathlin, which island, they had taken from
2
and compelled him to retreat over the river Bann.
Visiting the Earl of Antrim, at his castle of Dunluce, he was
entertained by him with great hospitality; the earl offering his
Yet on a signal
services to maintain the peace of the country.
regiment
Collkitto,
"
on pretence that
Munroe' s followers made the earl prisoner,
some of his tenants were in the rebellion, but in reality to gratify
the passion of a great man in Scotland, and his own service."
He also plundered his castle, and seized his estates, not permitting
his agent to receive any rents, though repeatedly ordered to
that effect
by the king and
Irish parliament.
Sending the earl
prisoner to Carrickfergus, he placed Argyle's regiment in his

castle, and remained in that neighbourhood inactive for several
weeks, while his army suffered so

some of the soldiers returned
that
much
home
for want of provisions,

in
a state of mutiny
4
;
Irish are described as being so distressed from the same

"
5
that
cause,
they eat their own dead." This dreadful calamity
and the
pestilential fever, which swept away vast

numbers, 2,500 persons being said to have died of this pestilence,
6
in Carrickfergus alone, in four months.
was followed by a
July ioth,* in this year the

Scottish forces,
1
of
first
here, consisting of five ministers
met
Presbytery held in Ireland

who had arrived with the
on the previous April, and four ruling elders.t
Warner's History of the Irish Rebellion.
Carte's Life of the
Duke
Ormond.
2
3
Cox's History of Ireland. MS. Warner's History of the Irish Rebellion.

Carte's Life of the Duke of Ormond.
MS.
Adair's

A MS. quoted in " HISTORICAL COLLECTIONS relative to the
Ibid.
OF BELFAST," printed 1817.

[* M'Skimin follows Kirkpatrick
TOWN
in giving ioth July.

Reid and Latimer
follow Adair in giving ioth June.]
MS. in the Armagh Library, says 20 elders, and 4 deacons.
t
names were Rev.
Their
regiment
Peebles,
Hugh Cunningham,
of
Glencairn's
Rev. John Baird, Campbell's regiment ; Rev. Thomas

Eglinton's regiment ; Rev. James Simpson, Sinclair's
regiment ; John Scott, John Aird, and three others whose names
are not given.
Mr. Baird preached from Psalm 51, last verse;
a
moderator was appointed, and Mr.
Soon
Peebles chosen clerk. 1
Presbytery, at the request of the different

parishes, sent out ministers to the following places, giving them
"
a right of Tithes" in their respective stations;! Ballymena,
after,
Antrim,
this
Carncastle,
Templepatrick,
Larne,
Belfast,
Carrick-
Ballywalter. Portaferry, Xewtownards, Donaghadee,

At the same time
Killileagh, Comber, Holywood, and Bangor.
"
divers ministers and others, who had taken the Black oath,\
and been instrumental in ensnaring others," on being sent for
"
sinful defection,"
by the Presbytery, came and owned their
and made similar declarations in their parishes, on which they
were received into communion. 2
August 4th, the same year. Alexander Lesley, Earl of
fergus.
Leven, commander in chief of the Scotch auxiliary forces, landed

remainder of these troops ;
on which
at Carrickfergus with the
he and Munroe soon after

the river
Bann
set out for Derry, and in crossing

they had a smart skirmish with the Irish, under
Donnell Geulagh O'Cahan.

They penetrated into
after
a
returned
their former quarters ;
and
short
to
Tyrone,
stay
and the Earl of Leven soon after sailed for Scotland. 3 About
this time the country was so completely exhausted by the
plunderings of the Scottish army, that their forces were obliged
General
Adair's MS.
t This was no more than, merely, reinstating them, for so early as the
reign of James I. they joined both churches and tithes without their using the
church liturgy, "with the same privilege as the rest of the Established Clergy."
Lelantfs History of Ireland, Vol. II.
1
This was an oath against the Covenant, that had been imposed on the
Presbyterians by Earl Strafford. [See Reid, vol. I, p. 247.]
2
Adair's MS.
The Scottish soldiers then serving in Ireland consisted of 16 regiments,
who were mostly raised in the southern counties, and on their enlistment each
Scalding. The
private was promised eight shillings (Scots Money,) per day.
Earl of Leven's, Earl of Lothian's, Col.
names of these regiments were
Sir Duncan Campbell's, of Auchinbreck, Isle of Slait, Col. James Montgomery's, Earl of Cassillis', Lord Sinclair's, Earl of Lindsay's, Col. Lander's,
Lord Lowden's, Earl of Eglinton's, Col. Dalzell's, Laird of Lare's, Col.
Hume's, Marquis of Argyle's, General Robert Munroe's, and Lord Glencairn's.
[The date of the erection of the first session in Belfast is 1644.]
:
Spalding.
D. Cur. Hib. Vol.
II.
to be supplied with provisions from home.

In the latter end
of December, the Earl of Antrim, who had been confined six
months in the castle of Carrickfergus, effected his escape into
1
England.
"Having obtained the General's pass for a sick
man. two of his servants carried him on a bed, as sick, to the
shore, and got him boated for Carlisle, whence he went to
York."
Early in the spring Munroe began to muster his

and about the beginning of May he
moved from Carrickfergus with 2.000 foot, and 300 horse, and
making forced marches chiefly by night, he arrived unobserved
by the enemy in the vicinity of Charlemont, when he was
1643.
forces for active service,
discovered by the Irish General Owen Roe O'Neill, who was out
On this discovery a smart action took place between
hunting.
the Scots and O'Neill's guards, and that active officer effecting
his retreat into Charlemont, and Munroe having no artillery to
besiege the fortress, burned Loughgall, and returned here soon
after.
In the
latter
end of May. the Earl of Antrim, returning to
Ireland, from a conference with the
Queen at York, arrived in

of Man, off Newcastle, county of Down,
and sent his servant on shore to learn if a landing could be
effected with safety.
Munroe, having received a message from
a
smack from the
Isle
the parliament that the earl might be expected to land in that

quarter, was at Newcastle at this time, and made the servant
prisoner ; who being threatened with instant death, discovered

the private signal between him and his master, which being made,
On his
the earl came on shore, and was immediately secured.
person were found papers respecting his intention of sending

troops to Scotland, to assist Montrose; on this discovery, the
earl with his servant was transmitted to their former quarters in
the castle of Carrickfergus,
Wallace, a decided Puritan.
and given
The
in charge to
servant,
named
Captain
Stewart, was
soon after tried for assisting in the former escape of his master
from hence, found

In
Armagh,
1
2
3
4
July.
in
guilty,
and executed.
Munroe made another excursion by
night
into
hopes of surprising O'Neill, who from the smallness
Carte's Life of the

Baillie's Letters.
Carte's Life of the
Carte's Life of the
Duke
of
Ormond.
Duke of Ormond
Duke of Ormond.
Letter from General Robert Munroe.
Carte's Letters.
Spalding.
5-'
of his army was unable to oppose him in the field, and who
being thus harassed by a superior force, left a garrrison in
Charlemont, and retired with about 1,600 men into the County
of Longford. 1
About the end of October, the Earl of Antrim, having found

means to seduce a Lieutenant Gordon, attached to one of the
Scotch regiments, then in this garrison, again effected his escape,
letting himself down by ropes over the walls of the castle.
A servant of Lord Chichester conveyed him on foot to Charle-
by
mont, where he was well received by Owen Roe O'Neill ; from

thence he proceeded to Kilkenny, where he was offered a
command by the Supreme Council, which he then declined ; and
setting out for England, on the i6th December, he joined the
king at Oxford, where in January following he was created
2
Lieutenant George P. Gordon, formerly
Marquis of Antrim.
mentioned, was soon after married to the Earl's sister, Rose
M'Donnell
a love
was therefore probably connected with

This Gordon was a brother to the Earl of
his escape
affair.
Sutherland.
February 2oth, four regiments of the Scottish

embarked on their return home. The remaining
corps suffering much from want of maintenance, a meeting of
their officers was held at Carrickfergus in March, to concert
measures for their immediate departure to Scotland. At the time
of their deliberations, four Scotch ministers arrived from the
General Assembly, to preach about the country ; and at a
Presbytery held here on the first of April, they communicated
a letter from the said Assembly to the ministers of the army,
directing them immediately to administer the sacrament to the
4
On the same day, a vessel arrived at our quay with a
troops.
charitable contribution of provisions, sent by the inhabitants of
1644.
auxiliary troops
Zealand, for the use of the distressed Protestant inhabitants ;

but the cargo was seized by Munroe, for his army, and the
5 *
people left to their starving fate.
1
Desiderata Cur.
Spalding.
I lib. Vol. II.

Carte's Life of the
Duke
of
Ormond.
Douglass's Peerage.

Adairs MS.
[*At this time the Committee of the House of Commons ordered
^30,000 to be shipped by the 3oth April, 1644, from hence to Carrick10,000 to be paid to
fergus, for the use of the Scottish army.
John Campbell, Commissary of the Scotch Army, or in his absence to
Major-General Munro, for the use of the said army, and that the
4
'
53
Agreeably to the instructions of the General Assembly, on

the 4th April the troops were assembled in the church of St.
Nicholas, and the sacrament administered to them by the Rev.
John Weir, and taken by all except Major Dalzell.

Many
persons of the town and neighbourhood also attended, renounced
Soon after, Messrs.
the black oath, and took the covenant.
Adair and Weir visited Braidisland, Belfast, Antrim, Ballymena,
l
Coleraine,
Billy, Dunluce, and Derry, preaching and adminis2
tering the covenant.
On these events being known in Dublin, on the i5th April,
the government issued a proclamation forbidding the taking of
the covenant, a copy of which was sent to the Mayor of Carrickfergus, and to all colonels of the army, ordering them not longer
From the influence
to delay publishing their order to that effect.
of the Scottish army here at that period, this order was not then
* was
afterwards
complied with ; for which neglect the mayor
the Irish House of Lords, and fined. 3
on
the
morning of the i4th May, General Munroe
Early
inarched from Carrickfergus for Belfast, which he entered
without opposition, the North gate being opened to him on his
summoned before
approach, by the serjeant of the guard who had it in charge.

Belfast, at the time of this surprise, was held by Colonel Arthur
Chichester, and in it were then met the principal Protestant
officers
serving in Ulster,
who were
deliberating whether they
Lord Admiral (Warwick) do nominate some fit person to accompany

.10,000 to be sent to the Scottish army in Ireland. It is referred
to the Committee of the Goldsmiths' Hall to reward John Davis for
See
"his pains and travels to Carrickfergus to see it safely delivered.
Calendar of State Papers, pp. 80, 201, 230, 566.]
1
The first person in Coleraine who took the covenant, was the Rev.
the
Vesy, minister of that parish, who acknowledged the sinfulness of the

''
and the cursed course of conformity," in which he was followed
black oath,
Though Vesy at this time exby the mayor and many of the inhabitants.
pressed great contrition for his former conformity, yet he soon after began to
sow dissention among the Presbyterians, by the erection of a Presbytery in
the Rootc, in opposition to that of Carrickfergus, which at that period managed
the affairs of the Presbyterians in Ireland.
Defeated in this project, in 1645
he and some others equally disaffected, accused the Presbytery to the Parlia"of bringing in a foreign jurisdiction against the
mentary Commissioners,
"
laws of Ireland
but after an inquiry held this charge was dismissed as false
and frivolous, on which he was for some time suspended from the ministry.
In 1660, he again conformed to the tenets of the Episcopal church, was maHe
chaplain to the Irish House of Lords, and died Archbishop of Tuain.
Thomas
AdaiSs MS.
3
Ware's Bishops.
MS.
[*Roger Lyndon was
[See note in Appendix.]
Adair's
mayor at this time, and he was obliged

lo dive security that he would see the Covenant burnt.l
3
Carte's Life of the Duke of Ormond. Journals of the Irish House of Lords.
the
54
would act under Munroe, in his new commission just received

from the English parliament, appointing him chief commander
Astonished
of the English and Scotch forces in the province.
at the conduct of Munroe, the officers immediately waited on
He replied
him, to learn the cause of his surprising the town.
that Colonel Chichester had not only forbid the taking of the
covenant, but also published a proclamation to that effect, in
who had taken
w'hich all
the
he had refused to admit
same were declared
Scottish
soldiers
into
traitors
his
that
garrison,
He
where he deemed it necessary to place his countrymen.
concluded by ordering the immediate departure of all troops
from the town, except those who had arrived with him that
on which Colonel Chichester, with his family, and
;
morning
some of
men, set out for Dublin.

Munroe, having thus secured Belfast, marched with four
regiments for Lisburn ; but Sir Theo. Jones, governor of that
town, was so well prepared against surprise, that he was obliged
his
to return to Belfast without effecting his purpose ; where leaving

in command, he retired to his headquarters at
Colonel
Hume
Carrickfergus.1645. In the spring of this year, a division of the Scottish

troops amounting to 1.400 men, returned to their native country,
to assist in opposing the Marquis of Montrose, whose surprising
seemed about to overwhelm the interest of

A few weeks after, these men were
victories at this time
the Covenanters in Scotland.
cut to pieces by Montrose, at Straden. near Aberdeen, on which

Munroe was called home with the remaining corps, but he
continued in his quarters, inflicting on the miserable inhabitants

"
the most notorious extortions and oppressions ever laid upon a
3
people."
The Marquis of Argyle arrived here with orders

1646.
from the Scottish Parliament, recalling their forces from this
kingdom
which order,
however,
appears to have been only
partially carried into execution, Munroe still retaining possession

of the principal garrisons in the counties of Down and Antrim. 4
About
November,
considerable
reinforcement
of
English
troops arrived in the bay of Carrickfergus. under the direction

of British parliamentary commissioners ; but the Scotch, being
1
'-'
'''
Carte's Life of the

Carte's Life of the
Carte's Life of the
Duke of Ormond.
Duke of Ormond.
Duke of Ormond.
Douglass's Scotch Peerage.
Carte's Letters.
Borlaise's Irish Reliellion.
55
on the eve of relinquishing the cause of the English parliament,

and embracing that of the king, refused to permit them to
land*
1648. In June, Sir John Macdougal, Sir William Coghran,
and [Alexander] Crawford, Scottish commissioners, came over to
hasten the return of their troops, to aid the cause of his Majesty
(Charles I.) by an invasion of England; and soon after,
General Sir George Munroe, with 1.200 horse and 2,100 foot,
embarked for Scotland. - These proceedings gave great offence
kingdom, who hated the

and were resolved he should have no assistance unless he
to the rigid Presbyterians in the latter
king,
subscribed the covenant.
On
this
force landing, the ministers

and exhorted the people
railed against them from their pulpits,

not to give them the smallest assistance
great excesses.
They
under the Duke of
the soldiers being thus

;
without proper quarters, were guilty of
at length joined the other Scottish troops
Hamilton, at Kendal, and on the i8th
August were defeated
at Preston,
exasperated, and
left
effected his retreat to Stirling,
was entered
by Oliver Cromwell. Munroe

where on the 8th October a treaty
which it was agreed that his army should

Detested on account of their former excesses, and
into, in
be disbanded.
had been engaged, they made their way

Glasgow and Ayr they were beaten and
the cause in which they
to Ireland,
and
at
3
plundered by the inhabitants.
While these events were passing in Britain, the affairs of
the Scottish auxiliaries still remaining in Ireland, were equally
unfortunate.
Those persons who still adhered to the interests
of the Commonwealth, were highly exasperated at the perfidious
conduct of the Scotch, in sending their troops, paid by the
Government in Ireland, to fight against the English Parliament ;

and those who remained here, being now discontented, and few
in number, plans w ere formed to wrest from them such places
as they yet retained in Ulster, the chief of which was Carrick3
To obtain possession of this place was now a matter
fergus.
of considerable interest to the Commonwealth ; and general
Robert Munroe having offended major Knox. captain Brice
Coghran, and some other officers of Glencairn's regiment then in
r
Carte's Life of the Duke of Orniond.

Memoirs of the Dukes of Hamilton.
Hume's History of England.
Memoirs of the
Thurloe's Slate Papers.
4
Montgomery's MSS.
1
2
:!
Dukes
of
Hamilton.
S6
garrison, they, fearing he would join Sir George Munroe then
on his way from Scotland with his disbanded troops, mutually
agreed to betray the town to General Monk then at Lisburn. In

consequence of their information, on the night of the i3th
Sir Robert Adair with a troop of horse was
from
Lisburn on this special service.* Taking an
despatched
September,
unfrequented tract across the mountains, he arrived at the

North gate about daylight, which having been purposely
left
and surprised
open, he entered without opposition
Munroe in his bed, who was soon after sent

1
The English parliament were so
prisoner to England.
well pleased with the conduct of Monk, that on the 4th October
General
him governor of this garrison, and

^500.* About the latter end of
December, General Sir George Munroe landed in the northern
part of the County of Antrim, and soon after attached himself
to the party of the Duke of Ormond, who still espoused the
following, they appointed
also presented him with
2
royal cause.
1649. Early in this year we find Carrickfergus garrisoned

the
by
Parliamentary forces, commanded by Major Edmond
Ellis.
About the latter end of June, Sir George Munroe, by
the direction of the
Duke
of Ormond, appeared before the town
with a body of Irish troops.

Though there could be no doubt
of his hostile intentions, the Presbytery then met here, sent out
a message to learn if he would take the Covenant, t he replied,
"
The Devil
'
Robert being a Scotchman entered on this service with great

and the Presbytery afterwards refused to admit him to their
though an elder, until he explained that he had been compelled to
Sir
reluctance
sittings,
Adair'' s
act.
1
take the Covenant and you too/' which answer amply
MS.
MS.

Adair's MS.
Charnock's Biographia Navalis.
Adair's
[*They also directed all the ministers in London and ^'estminstcr

"
thanks to (iod on next Lord's Day for this great
mercy of
surprising the said garrison, and taking the Scots prisoners." Com.
to return
Journals, Vol.
6,
37-41-]
The first was the National

[fThere were three Scottish Covenants
Covenant, 1581 it was simply an abjuration of popery and an engagement to
1638 The National Covenant was renewed
support the protestant religion.
with an added bond by which the subscribers bound themselves to adhere to
the true religion, and labour to recover the purity and liberty of the Gospel as
formerly professed and established before certain innovations had been introThose who signed this
duced.
1643 The Solemn League and Covenant.
;
document pledged themselves to maintain the Reformed religion, to "extirpate

Popery and Prelacy, to preserve the liberties of the kingdom, and to lead holy
lives personally."
Latimer's History, p. 93.]
57
On the 29th June, the

design against the place.
wrote
to
in Belfast, accusing
the
Lord
of
then
Ards,
Presbytery
him as the origin of all their evils. They also reminded him that
testified his
he had formerly been forward to renew the Covenant, and had

also promised to do nothing without their approbation and advice
"
Who could have believed that your Lordship would
they add,
have avowed a Commission from the King, when he yet refuses

as much as his Father, to secure Religion, but follows wicked
counsel, and so avowedly to violate that Article of your Declaration ; or that you would own a wicked association of Irish Papists,
and under cover of strengthening, should have betrayed
that
We
garrison of Belfast.
ship (though the Lord
must be faithful in warning your lordknows what heaviness it is to us,) that
the Lord will reward you if you repent not for such a betraying
of the faithful servants of God, who would have plucked out
their eyes for you, and the Lord will visit your famalie with
sudden ruin, and irrepairable desolation, for that you have been
so grand an instrument to destroy the work of God here. We

exhort your lordship, in the name of the living God, to whom
you must give an account, in haste to forsake that infamous and
in, and adhere to your former profession,
the calamities that will ensue will be laid to your
ungodly course you are

otherwayes
score.
all
The Lord himselfe and
all
the faithful will set themselves
against you, and we will testifie of your unfaithfulnesse to ihe

World so long as the Lord shall give us strength." His lordship,
in his answer, dated Belfast, June 3oth, says that he is not the
author of the distractions in the country, and that he wished to

secure the garrisons of the north from Sir George Munroe, and
to advance religion according to the Covenant. The Presbytery,
dated from Carrickfergus, July 2d. declare, that

were
aware
of the connexion between his lordship and
they
fully
"
Munroe, who lyes before this garrison to destroy it," that they
could not perceive how he was for the good of religion and the
in their answer,
Covenant, and that they would
"
denounce judgment
"
upon him
the Lord perswade your heart to return." 1

On the following day his lordship, with a body of troops, joined
Sir George Munroe before this town, and the garrison being now
and
his party,
"till
closely pressed without any hopes of relief, surrendered on the

4th July, on honourable terms.
Immediately after, all persons
were ordered to give up their arms on pain of being plundered

1
Montgomery's MSS.
The Complaint
of the Bovtefev.
and the
soldiers,
who had
just surrendered,
were solicited to join
his service. 1
On
the settlement of those affairs regarding the troops, his
Lordship was joined by the Lagan forces, and proceeded to

Londonderry, to which place he laid siege ; but on the 8th August
'
he was obliged to raise the same by Owen Roe O'Neill 2

November 2d, the above year, colonel Thomas Dallyel r
governor, agreed to surrender the town and castle, by the i3th
December, to the parliamentary forces of Sir Charles Coote and

Robert Variables, even before the foot of the latter came up. 3
1
For the ariicle of capitulation, see the detached
Montgomery's MSS.
papers at the end of this book.
2
3
Articles agreed upon between the Ri^ht Hon. Sir Charles Coote,
knight and baronet, iord president of Connaught, and Colonel Robert
Venablcs on the one part, and Colonel Thomas Dallyel, the governor
of the town and Castle of Carrickfcrgus, on the other part, for the
surrender of said town and castle, November 2, 1649.
I. That the said Colonel Dallyel, shall and will surrender into the handsof the said Colonel Venables, or any other of the chief commanders of the
parliament forces, the town and castle of Carrickfergus, and that the artillery,
except such as shall be spent before the surrender of the same, shall be
delivered up as aforesaid, and the surrender is to be made six weeks after the
signing of these articles, being the I3th day of Deceml>er next ensuing by
twelve of the clock.
II. It shall be lawful for the said governor, with the rest of his officers
and soldiers to march out of the town with flying colours, drums beating, and
all the marks of honour whatsoever, and that no soldier of what nation soever,
though he had been formerly in the enemy's service, shall be questioned by
any cause or pretext whatsoever.
III. That the governor, with all officers and souldiers under his command, without exception, shall have free liberty to march out with their wives
children and seivanls, horses, arms, bag and baggage, or any other their
goods whatsoever, into any place or garrison, now kept for their parly, and
that there be a safe and free conduct for this effect.
IV. That all officers and soldiers resolving to go out of this kingdom
shall have free passage and shipping for their transportation.
V. That all officers and soldiers resolving to live in the country, shall
peaceably enjoy their own, without being troubled with any cost, or any
other extraordinary burthen for one whole year, and afterwards they shall
enjoy them as the other inhabitants of the country do.
VI. That no officers or souldiers shall be arrested in his person, or goods^
for any thing taking by them in garrison, since the last taking of the town
before
and that all claim by way of debt, to any of the inhabitants of the
town, shall be void for one whole year.
VII. That the prisoners taken at Coleraine, shall suffer no danger in their
person, but be capable of being ransomed or exchanged according to the
usual custom.
VIII. That a cessation may be, that no hostility be committed by either
;
party, until the performance of these articles ; and if any quarrels do happen
l>etwixt private persons, it is not to be interperated a breach of these articles,
but it is to he judged and punished by an equal number of officers on both sides.
IX. That after the signing of these articles it shall be lawful for
the governor, to send lieutenant colonel Munroe to Sir George Munroe*
59
Venables was immediately appointed governor by Sir Charles

Coote; and, on the 6th December, defeated Munroe near
Lisburn.
major general to the army under the command of the Marquiss of

Ormond, to go and come, and not to be interrupted by any of the
parliaments party, but is to have a pass, if desired, throughout the
quarters.
X. That what provision of victual no\v
in
the
castle,
that
was
taken from any of the inhabitants, shall be delivered to the true

owners.
XI. That the frigate in the harbour shall be delivered to the true
owners.
XII. That the officers and soldiers shall be permitted to carry with
them, twenty days provisions for their march.
XIII. The straitest and nearest way to Cloghwaghter, or any
party or army the governor shall think fit, and that horses be provided
for carrying said provisions, and the officer's and soldiers baggage.
XIV. That they of the garrison shall neither fortify, demolish, or
destroy in and about the same, or take any forces, horses or foot, or
any victuals, arms, ammunition or warlike provisions, or in ways join
in acts of hostility, unless they be assaulted by the garrison, before
the day appointed for the delivery of them up
and in the mean time
there is no act of hostility to be done to the said garrison, or any
belonging them, by the forces of the parliament by sea or land.
XV. That the day before the surrender of the garrison, the countryshall be ordered to pay unto all officers six weeks pay, according as
they usually received, and the soldiers a months, as they received,
and that in the mean time none of the said garrison shall entermeddle
with, or molest any person, residing within tho same.
XVI. That before the surrender of the garrison, a feild officer shall
be given on each side.
XVII. That the hostages given on the behalf of the besiegers, shall
be sent to Charlemont or Enniskillen, and there to remain until our
safe arrival at Cloghwater, or at any other place according to these
articles, at which time he is to return safe hack with the convoy of
horse, whereupon both hostages are to be delivered bark.
Lastly, all these articles are to be truly and really observed by both
parties, provided always that if in the mean time such an army or
party shall march into these quarters to the relief of said garrison
as shall overpower the said party besieging, and thereby become
masters of the feild in these quarters of the country, then these articles
In confirmation
shall be void, and the garrison in its former condition.
and ratification of all which, to be truly and really performed, on both
parts, we have hereunto interchangeably set our hands and seals, this
2d day of November, 1640.
Signed and sealed,
;
DALLYEL.
Cox's Historv of Ireland.
Borlase's
Irish
Rebellion.
CHAPTER
VI.
This year the Presbyterian ministers of the counties

Antrim, displayed considerable opposition to the
Commonwealth of England, by their preaching and praying in
1650.
of
Down and
favour of the royal cause. To deter them from the like practices,
they were summoned, in May, before colonel Venables, on which
some of them fled, or kept out of the way; but those who
appeared,
boldly
declared
their
attachment
to
king,
lords,
and commons, as the only legal authority. They were then made
prisoners, and those of the former county confined at Belfast,
the
latter
at
Carrickfergus.
Same
year,
George
Sexton,
formerly quarter master general to the Irish army commanded

by the Roman Catholic Bishop of Clogher, and who had been
taken prisoner by Sir Charles Coote, at Letterkenny, was executed
here. 2
In March this year a council of war was held at

Carrickfergus by the officers of the parliamentary forces, who
passed an act of banishment against the Presbyterian ministers ;
on which many fled to Scotland, but some remained in secret
1651.
about the country.
This act declared that the chief cause was
their keeping alive the interest of the king among the people,
and representing those in power as traitors and breakers of the
Covenant, z
The ministers and gentlement of the Presbyterian

1653.
church of Ireland were assembled here, being summoned before
the Commissioners of the Rump colonels Venables, Barrow,
1
Presbyterian Loyalty.
Desiderata Curiosa Hibernica.
A Sample
of Jet Black Prelatic
Calumny.
['Nearly 70 Presbyterian ministers were then ejected from their livings in

Ten were imprisoned in Carrickfergus Castle, and seven were conUlster.
The ministers confined in Carrickfergus were
fined in Curlingford Castle.
Thomas Hall, Lame: William Keyes, Belfast; John Douglas, Broughshane ;
Robert Hamilton, Killead James Cunningham, Antrim; John Couthart,
Drumal ; John Shaw, Ahoghill ; James Shaw, Carnmoney; Hugh Wilson,
Castlereagh ; and Robert Hogsyeard, Ballyrashane. Besides these there were
Latimer's
Andrew Wike (Baptist) and Timothy Taylor (Independent.)
-,
"History of the Irish Presbyterians," p. 138.]

[tFor a list of the gentlemen to be transported from Carrickfergus.
Broadisland, Islandmagee, &c., see Reid's History o/ the Presbyterian
Church, Vol. 2, app. 5.]
6i
and majors Morgan and Allan. The cause of

summoning was to get them to take, instead of the oaths of
allegiance and supremacy, an oath called the Engagement, by
Jones, and Hill,

this
which they were to abjure king, lords, and commons.

When
assembled, they loyally refused to take the oath, and declared
that the then ruling government was a usurpation
upon which
:
the
commissioners
formed a design of transporting them to
Munster, and had a ship lying
off for that
purpose
but accounts
Cromwell having dissolved the Rump, the design was
arriving of
abandoned.
Among
those gentlemen
who
refused to take the
was Arthur Upton, esq., ancestor to Lord Templeton. 1

About 1662, some Quakers settled at Crossgreen, near
Carrickfergus ; and in the following year, we find a remarkable
oath,
instance of their being persecuted here, in the case of Miles

Grey, who was taken up and cast into prison by Colonel
Charles Meredith, for exhorting in the street. On the following
day he was banished from the town, and beaten by George

2
Spring, gaoler, as he drove him thence.
In April, the garrison, consisting of four com1666.
soon
panies of foot, mutinied for want of their pay, but were
It is likely, however, that their grievances were not
redressed; for the mutiny again broke out with greater violence
on the 22d of the following month.
Choosing one Corporal
quelled.
Lodge's Peerage.
that of England in
[In 1661, the parliament of Ireland followed
and in passing an act for
restoring the former government and worship,
in every
burning the Solemn League and Covenant, the magistrates
in the Kingplace being directors and witnesses. The only magistrate
dom who hesitated to burn the Covenant was Captain John Dalway,
Mayor of Carrickfergus. On the agth July, 1661, he was brought on
his knees to the Bar of the House of Lords and fined .100 for not
but on producing a certificate that
the Covenant to be burned
causing
he had duly complied with the order of Parliament, the fine was to be
Lords'
remitted, and he was discharged on payment of his fees.
Journals, Vol. i, 273.]
2
was intended
it
Rutty 's Persecutions of the Quakers In 1680,
and a transferred
to build a Quaker meeting-house at Crossgreen
a buryingfor
lease of ten perches of ground, for this purpose, and
and John Woods, to John
ground, was obtained from Robert Hoop
The witnesses to this lease were, William
Handcock and others.
Mathias Calvart, and William Porter.
Patrick Agnew,
Pickin,
ceased to meet
However, no meeting-house was built and the Quakers
here about 1684, having fallen into disrepute from the improper
conduct of some of their members, particularly one Ralph Sharpley.
The patch of ground alluded to, served for some time as a burymgon the bank of a small rivulet, near
It
the above sect.
;
<round
to
'Prospect
lay
it
was enclosed with a hedge, and long known
Quakers' burying ground.
as
the
6J
Dillon for their commander,
they prepared for defending themThey drew out a list of their grievances, inviting other
selves.
garrisons to join them, and sent a copy to the earl of Donegal),

then in the town; upon which he waited on them, and did
them to order, but without effect. On the

same month, the earl of Arran, son to the duke of
Ormond, arrived at Carrickfergus in the Dartmouth frigate,
with four companies of foot guards; and on the zyth, his
his utmost to bring
25th
In the
grace of Ormond arrived with ten troops of horse.
evening, a general assault was made on the town, the earl of
Arran attacking it by sea, and Sir William Flowers by land ;
on which
the mutineers retreated into the castle, with the loss
of Dillon, their commander, and two others.

The assailants
had two killed and six wounded. Same evening, the earl of
Donegall and the mayor effected their escape from the town
and so many of the mutineers deserted, that their number nas
reduced to 120 men. On the next day, they hung out a white
flag, and desired to capitulate; and on the earl's assurance of
;
safety,
one Proctor and another mutineer were
castle wall, to treat
to
let
down
of terms; but the earl refusing to

short of unconditional
submission,
any proposal
returned into the castle.
the
listen
they
The
mutineers, however, although they

provisions, surrendered at discretion the
had still a month's

same day, about 2 o'clock.
On
executed,
the 3oth.
and the
o persons were tried, nine of whom were

sent to Dublin, whence they were
companies to which they belonged were also
1
others
The
transported.
reduced.
Two companies of the guards being left in garrison,
his grace returned to Dublin, on which the House of Commons
appointed a deputation of their body to wait on him with their
1
The corporation received
thanks for suppressing this mutiny.
the thanks of government for their loyalty on this occasion,
and gave a splendid entertainment to the earl of Arran and
;
company of militia being raised for the

defence of Carrickfergus, the mayor for the time being yvas
2
For the letter of his appointment,
appointed to the command.
in the following July, a
see Appendix. Xo. IX.

In the MSS. of Henry Gill, esq..
we
find
1 Cox's
History of Ireland. Carte's Life of the
Journals of the Irish House of Commons.
2 Records of
Carrickfergus.
some additional
Duke
of
Ormond.
and
interesting particulars of this mutiny, from which it

appears that the above soldiers had been treated with the most
cruel neglect; having been
kept without pay upwards of three
months, and the inhabitants having long refused to credit them.

For some time prior to the mutiny,
they had existed wholly
on such fish as they could find on the shore, and even sea
plants, which they boiled.
Just before proceeding to extremes,
they waited on Hugh Smyth, treasurer of this
and
corporation,
humbly requested two
shillings
and
six
pence for each man;
but he refusing any aid, they proceeded as

just related.
nine men being ordered for execution, the common
On
the
hangman
that "he
refused to do his office, and left the town,

declaring
would rather be hanged himself, than hang men who had been
so badly treated."
However, James Spring, an inhabitant of
the town, performed this hateful office, on being
promised, bySir William Flowers,
$ for each man; not one farthing of
which he ever received.
Mr. Gill adds, that had this mean
wretch possessed the humanity of the common hangman, ?.he

men would have been saved; as a reprieve came for all, a few
hours after they were executed.
This summer, the regular army being all drawn to

1670.
an encampment on the Curragh of Kildare, the town and castle
of Carrickfergus were garrisoned by the militia company of
1
this
Anthony Horsman, mayor, commanding.

1688.
About the beginning of March, a number of
protestant noblemen and gentlemen assembled at Hillsborough,
the chief of whom was lord Blaney.
At this meeting they
"
formed a design against Carrickfergus," then held by those
place,
attached to king James ; but it failed through treachery. 2

records of Carrickfergus of the above year contain
"
Decemb r the 2d being Sunday 1688,
following notice.
The
the
The
Lord Eveagh and two other Captains entered this Towne with
3 Companies of new raysed foote unarmed, and then parte
resceaved armes, and had the Castle delivered unto them
George Talbot Capt." of
and next day the Said Capt."
r
Patrick Barnwall, Capt." Newgent, and
Talbot, Capt." S.
"
Shurlock, marched towards Dublin with their ComCapt
(according
to
order),
Granadeers, then
by
panies."
1
Memoires
of
Capt."
Governor;
Ireland.
64
In January, a plan was formed by the protestants1689.
of Belfast and neighbourhood, to surprise this town and castle,
then held by the Roman catholic troops, commanded by the
earl of Antrim.
This design was intended to have been effected
by 150 protestant soldiers, of Sir Thomas Newcombe's regiment,

advancing to Carrickfergus, pretending they had been sent toassist in garrisoning the town; and, when admitted, to seize
the gates, and receive the other protestants.
When about to be
it was laid aside
by the timidity of some
on
which
the
soldiers
who had embarked in
;
the above scheme deserted. This, with some other circumstances
that transpired about the same time, gave such an alarm to the
adherents of James, that they evacuated Belfast.
Another
plan was soon after laid by the protestants, to obtain possession
of this garrison, with no better success.
On the night of the
2ist February, same year, 1000 men* marched from Belfast,
commanded by Colonel Bermingham, but the stratagem by which
they had hoped to gain possession, failing, a cessation of arms
was agreed upon between the parties. Soon after, the protestant
forces in the adjacent country, overpowered by those of the
3
opposite army, either dispersed or removed to Colerain.
On the 1 5th of the following April, colonel Mark Talbot
marched hence with part of the troops in garrison, and being
joined by other detachments, the whole amounting to near
carried into execution,
of
their leaders
5000 men, proceeded to the Ards against captain Henry

Hunter, who had collected an irregular force of the peasantry,
amounting to near 3000 men, to oppose the plunderings of the
catholic troops, under col. Bryan Magennis and col. Francis
Hunter, having no intelligence of the enemy's motions,
"
and the Irish
was surprised near Comlir (perhaps Comber) ;
himself
Hunter
at
the
come
to
cou'd
all
Sword,"
put
they
3
the
isle
Man.
to
of
escaping
Wahup.
Faithful History of the Northern Transactions.

Mark Talbot, Lieutenanttheir arrival at Carrickfergus,
Colonel to the Earl of Antrim, desired to know the meaning of their
" He was told that
they came to demand the place for the
coming.
Prince of Orange, to check the insolencies and robberies of the
soldiers, and to put the town and castle, and the stores contained in
them, under the command of a protestant Governor." Harris's Life of
King William, Vol. 2, p. 233.]
2 A Faithful
Mackenzie's
History of the Northern Transactions.
Narrative of the Siege of Derry
1
[*On
Memoires
of
Ireland.
65
Tuesday August
i3th,
the
same
year,
duke Schomberg*
arrived in the bay, with a fleet of about 90 vessels, having on

board near 10,000 men, and same evening began to disembark
The army remained

Groomsport, near Bangor.
the
their
during
night, upon
arms; and the
"
to
following day the duke sent forward a party of 250 men,
see what posture the enemy were in about Belfast."
At the
same time the Irish troops in Carrickfergus burned the suburbs
his troops at
in
the
field
"
apprehending a siege."
Thomas Maxwell, governor of Carrickfergus for
king James, on hearing the duke was coming to besiege the
of the town,
Colonel
giving his charge to col. Mac Carty

More, whose regiment, and that of Cormac O'Neill, he left for
its defence.
The duke took possession of Belfast, from which
garrison, left the town,
the
enemy had
retired
towards Lisburn.
On
the
2oth, five
"
and
regiments of foot were sent to besiege Carrickfergus ;
next day seven more went, who almost surrounded it," and
3
began to cast entrenchments, and plant cannon and mortars.
The following journal of this siege is copied from a work
entitled "An Impartial History of the Wars of Ireland,"
written by George Story, an eye-witness.
"The Town
desired
a Parley, and sent out Lieutenant
Propositions in Writing; He presented them

very submissively, and the Duke went into a Tent to read them ;
but when he found they desired time to send to the late King
Gibbons,
with
for Succours, or leave to surrender, he sent the Paper out, and

ordered the Lieutenant to be gone, and then their Cannon plaid
directly at the
Tent where he left the Duke, doing some Damage

Duke was gone abroad. Our cannon were
thereabouts, but the
[*The same day, Duke Schomberg writes a letter to King William,

and describes the departure of the troops from Hoylake, and their
He said, " The enemy has a

in the Bay of Carrickfergus.
loss in their
tolerably large force of cavalry, but they have suffered
battle of which
infantry : that of Enniskillen having been killed in a
Rouck (Rooke)
your Majesty will learn by way of Scotland. Captain
whom I met in Ireland, told me he had sent an account of it to the
Duke of Hamilton. I believe your Majesty will approve of strict order
taken that the soldiers do not pillage as they desire to do. The
arrival
being
'
presbiinhabitants are all protestants (' gens de la religion ') mostly

"Is glad to learn that the cavalry
teriens'; there are few papists."
has given the King
regiment, composed of French refugee officers,
Calendar of State Papers, 1689-90, p. 220.]
satisfaction."
1
Ireland.
Story's Impartial History of the Wars of
2
Memoirs
Story's Impartial History of the
of
James
II.
Wars
of Ireland.
66
as ready as theirs, for we begun to play upon my
gall's House in the Town, on which the Enemy
Lord Donehad planted
two Guns which disturbed our camp. Before next morning our
men drew their Trenches several Paces nearer the Wall, which
occasioned very warm firing on both sides all Night; We lost
some men, and had two Officers wounded ; and a Drummer,
that made his escape over the Wall, gave the Duke an Account
that there were about thirty killed in the Town that Night.
Thursday the 22d was employed in running the Trenches
nearer, the Mortars and Cannon still playing upon the Town,
and upon the Half-moon, that was to the Right of the Castle.
This Day came a Fleet of about Fifty Sail into the Lough,
which brought over four Regiments of Foot, and one of Horse.
The day and night were spent in smart firing, four Regiments
of Foot mounting the Trenches.
Friday the 23d, the Besieged desired another Parley, and
would have marched out with Bag and Baggage, Drums
beating, and Colours flying, &c. ; But the Duke would allow
no other Terms, but to make them Prisoners of War. During
this Parley, the Duke visited all the Trenches, and observed
the Walls of the Castle, and a poor Dutchman was shot from
the Walls, making his Returns to Reproaches against the Prince
of Orange, our King, saying, That their King was a Tinker
he was not nimble
King, he had nothing but Brass Money
enough at getting off when the Parley was over, and so lost
:
his
Life for his Jests sake.
After
this the
Duke gave
orders
Engineers and Gunners to go on as vigorously as

Before we had only two Batteries, one in the Windpossible.
mill Hill (with Mortars,) before the castle, Westward ; the other
for the
of four Guns against the North-gate. The Duke then ordered

a very large Mortar to be placed under the Walls, upon a New
Battery, near the Lord Donegalls House (with two Small Guns)
which did great Execution: This Night was spent in continual
and small Shot, and next morning the Town was

over smothered with Dust and Smoak occasioned by the
firing of great
all
Bombs; Collonel Richards was carried to Belfast, being

wounded in the Trenches the Night before; and there was one
Mr. Spring that made his escape out of the Town, who told
That all the Soldiers lay continually on the Walls,
the Duke,
Bombs only plagued the Protestants in Town as

Mackarty Moor, and Owen Mackarty, were the only
so that the
also that
6?
two
that hindered the
resolved, if
we stormed
Town
the
to be surrendred; and that

they
to retire all to the Castle, in
Town,
order to which they had laid in great store of Corn, Beef, Salt,
and other Provisions proportionable. He gave also an account,
that they were straitned for Ammunition, having
only at first
30 or 32 Barrels of Powder, with other things suitable. This
Afternoon several of them were observed to be buisy on the
top of the Castle; it was believed at first they were planting
Guns
there, but we understood afterwards, that they were

pulling off the Lead to make Bullets.
Sunday the 25th, The Siege continued, and the Breaches
were made wider, particularly one a little to the East of the

North-gate, and yet the Irish were very industerius in making
what we beat down in the day.

Next morning our Guns plaid furiously, and the Breach
(notwithstanding all their cunning) was increased; which the
Irish seeing, and fearing that our men would enter, they found
out this stratagem, (viz.) They got a great number of Cattle,
and drove them all as near the top of the Breach as they could
force them to go, keeping themselves close behind them; and
this served in some measure to secure the Breach; for several
of the Cattle were killed by our shot, and as they fell, the
Irish threw Earth, Stones and Wood upon them; but this they
thought would not hold long, and so they desired another
Parley, which the Duke would not hear of, but ordered the
mortars and Cannon to play without ceasing, and the Men of
War had orders to play their Guns from the sea upon the
Castle, which so terrified the Irish, that at Six a Clock next
morning, they put out their white Flag again, and sent their
Proposals to the Duke, which at length he agreed to, having
more business before him, and the Season of the Year
beginning to alter. He gave them leave therefore to march out
with their Arms, and some baggage, and they were to be
up
at Night,
conducted with a Guard to the next Irish Garrison, which then
was Newry."
Articles of Agreement between Frederick Duke of Schomberg.

General of Their Majesties' Forces, and Col. Charles Mackarty
Moore, Governor of Carrickfergus, August 27, 1689.
I. That the Garrison shall march out with flying Colours, Arms,
to-morrow by Ten a Clock.
lighted Matches, and their own Baggage,
1
II. That in regard the Garrison are in such Disorders, none
admitted into the Town, but such a Guard as we think fit to send to
1
68
"
When firing ceased on both sides, several of our Officers

went into the Town, and were treated by the Irish with Wine
and other things in the Castle, and the Articles were scarce
agreed
the
to,
Camp;
Mackarty Moor was in the Duke's Kitchen, in

which the Duke smiled at, and did not invite him
till
; Saying, if he had staid like a Soldier with his men,

he would have sent to him; but if he would go and eat with
to
Dinner
Servants in a Kitchen, let him be doing.

We took possession of the Stores, the Irish had but one
Barrel of
into the
Powder
left,
Sea to save
On Wednesday
Irish
marched
out,
tho some say they threw several more
their Credit.
the 28th of August, about Ten o'Clock, the

Sir William Russel, a Captain in
and had
Collonel Coy's Regiment, with a Party of Horse, appointed

for their Guard; but the Countrey people were so inveterate
against them (remembering how they had served them some
days before) that they stript most part of the Women, and
forced a great many Arms from the Men; and took it very ill
the Duke did not order them all to be put to Death,
But he knew better things ; and
notwithstanding the Articles
that
of the Gates,
which shall immediately be delivered to us,
according to the Custom of War.
III. That the Garrison shall march out to-morrow by Ten a
Clock, and be conducted by a Squadron of Horse to the nearest
Garrison of the Enemy and there shall be no crowding nor confusion
when they march out.
IV. That nothing be carried out of the Town, which belongs to
the Protestants, or other Inhabitants.
V. That the Governor obliges himself to deliver all Cannon, and
other sort of Arms, Munition, Victuals of any kind, into the hands of
such a Commissary as shall be ordered by us to receive them to-morrow
one
morning.
VI. That
if there
be any thing due from the Garrison to the
Inhabitants of the Protestant Religion, it shall be paid; and what has
been taken from them shall be restored.
VII. That a safe Conduct for all the Inhabitants of the Countrey,
and such of the Roman Catholic Clergy that came for shelter to this
Garrison, shall be allowed, that they go to their respective habitations,
together with their Goods, and there be protected, pursuant to King
William's Declaration, bearing date the 22d of February last past.
VIII. That care shall be taken of the sick and wounded men of
the Garrison that cannot go along with their Regiments
and that
when they are in a condition to follow the rest, they shall have our
Pass.
;
SCHOMBERG.
'The London
Gazette, No. 2582, informs us that at the time of

this surrender, there were only 14 pieces of cannon mounted, no
ammunition, 250 barrels of oats, 315 stone of wool, but no provisions.
Wool was formerly used to cover soldiers from the effect of small arms.
69
so rude were the Irish Scots, that the

in
among them, with
Duke was
his Pistol in his hand, to
forced to ride
keep the Irish
from being murdered. The poor Irish were forced to

fly to
the Soldiers for protection, else the
Country people would have
certainly used them most severely; so angry were they one at
another, tho they live all in a Countrey. However, this was laid
at the General's Door,
by the great Officers in the Irish Army,

That he had lost his Honour, by engaging
in so ill a Cause.
The Governor of the Town was Mackarty
Moor, but Owen Mackarty had a great Ascendant over both
him and the Garrison. The Garrison consisted of two Regi-
and they would
say,
ments of Foot, lusty strong Fellows, but ill clad, and to give
their due they did not behave themselves ill in that
Seige.
them
They had about One Hundred and Fifty killed and wounded
in Town, and we had near that number killed, and about
Sixty
wounded."
Leaving Sir Henry Inglesby's regiment in garrison here,

army marched for Belfast on the 28th, and the heavy
artillery was shipped for Carlingford.
the
From a very rare pamphlet entitled "A Journal of what

passed in the North of Ireland," the following is another
account of the siege:
"The garrison no sooner saw our fleet
than they burned the suburbs, and seized the Protestants in that
place,
made
defence.
fast the gates, and put themselves in a posture of

in the afternoon on Tuesday, August
About three
1 3th, the General with part of the fleet that was with him put
into Groomsport, and that evening landed all the soldiers, and
forthwith sent parties to Killileagh, Hillsborough, Lisnagarvey,
and Belfast, in which places they found not one papist to resist
This night the General, with the
them.
rest
encamped near
Bangor.
Wednesday, i4th, early in the morning his Grace decamped

encamped there until the remainder of the fleet
came, which was not until the ipth, and then they landed their
men at Belfast, where having refreshed themselves, on the 2oth
they marched towards Carrickfergus, eight miles the general
at the same time ordering the men of war, which were seven or
as they saw the
ight. to draw up before the town, and as soon
army by land come before it to play on it with their cannon
to Belfast, and
Story's Impartial History of the
Wars
of Ireland.
accordingly they began at six in the afternoon, and continued

firing until the enemy had raised their batteries one upon the
East and another on the North side of the town, where a vast
number of horses and other cattle, all of which fell into the
an encouragement to go further.
Captain George of Lord Lisburn's regiment
soldiers hands, as
courage and bravery fetched
with
great
off
very great booty.

The batteries being finished, the cannon and mortars began
to play that night, and continued playing until next morning,
when the general for want of a trumpet, sent in the morning

a drum into the town, to demand a surrender upon discretion,
which they refused to do otherwise than with bag and baggage,
drums beating, trumpets sounding, and colours flying, and a
convey to conduct them safe to their own party.
The parley was no sooner over than there came into the
camp 500 horse from Enniskillen, some without boots and
pistols ; others with pistols, but without carabines ; some with
one pistol and a carabine, without sword; others without all.
The general himself until twelve at night, was marching
and
down in person, giving necessary orders, and going over
up
the batteries, and no more concerned at the enemies' bullets
humming and whissing about his ears, than if it had been music
of peace.
I saw myself several of the enemies' ball to fall
close to him, and go over into the trenches.
I stood all night in the camp, to please my eyes and ears
with the sight and noise of our bombs and cannon, and small
shot, which played continually on the town, like incessant
showers of hail, with which they beat down the gate on the
north side of the town, and great part of the wall adjoining,
and much of the half-moon by the castle ; and a drummer and
who stole out said it killed their principal gunner, by

dismantling a piece of cannon upon him when he was leveling
at our battery, on the half-moon.
About five next morning,
I returned to Belfast, and found that a Protestant may already
others
and without any danger, march through the whole

province of Ulster, without a staff in his hand, not a papist
being anywhere to be found in it except about 2,000, who are
safely
to the
fled
Red Glen*
or Glenarrif,
between the mountains.
Red-Bay, or Glenariff, the place where the Irish halted for the
night after their leaving Carrickfergus, is still pointed out on the
banks of the Six-mile-water, Ballyboley.
first
about 20 miles north of this place, for fear of being despoiled

by the Protestants (who they had so served already); they have
few arms except Pikes and Skeans. To our great surprise and
no
less joy,
we found
of provisions.
army, but it
We
is
the country full of corn, and all manner

have no certain account of the enemies'
confidently
reported
that
they
are
now
at
Lurgan-Race, and have made from thence to Newry.
The
country
all
hereabouts offer their service as one
man
to the general, to go against the enemy, as yet but here and

there a man has been accepted.
On the afternoon of the 23rd the garrison sent out an
officer
with an order of surrender, upon the terms offered them,

so, otherwise than upon discretion,
but the general refused to do

and that unless they sent out
all
the Protestants safe and well,
he would put every papist to the sword, he should take, this

they also rejected, and the cannon and bombs, have played all
night, and this morning as I am writing hereof I saw the town
on fire, so that by the next you may here of its surrender." l
Our records of this date contain the following additional

information respecting this siege:
"When King William's Army under General Schomberg
invested this Towne (being possessed by the Irish) the 2oth of
August, 1689, I was upon the first appearance of the army
committed Prisoner in the Vault next to the mayn Guard, and
next day was committed to the common Gaole, into which I
had this Book, and the Towne Chest, (wherein all the Records,
Deeds & Charters of the Towne were), brought into the Gaole,
where they remayned till the Towne was delivered the 2yth,
and the English entered: next day I delivered the Sword
the
(which was hid by my Serjant) to General Schomberg, in
markett place, whoe was pleased to restore it unto mee; and
I
continued
till
the 29th September, 1690.
RICHARD DOBBS, mayor."

1
M'Skimin's Appendix.
CHAPTER
VII.
1690, Saturday June i4th, about 4 o'clock afternoon,

* landed at this
king William
quay from the Mary yacht,
attended by prince George of Denmark, the duke of Ormond,
the earls of Oxford,
Mr.
Scarborough, and Manchester, the hon.
Boyle, and many persons of
distinction.
He
walked
"
part of the town," and, about half an hour after

landing, set off in Duke Schomberg's carriage to Belfast, near
which place he was met in state by the sovereign and burgesses.
through
The former presented a very loyal address to his majesty, in

name of the corporation, and other inhabitants, which his
2
Concerning
majesty received with much seeming satisfaction.
the
this
visit,
Adam
a Life written by himself,

great-great-grandfather, William Clarke, was an
Dr.
"My
in
Clarke,
says:
estated gentleman, of Grange, in the County of Antrim,
appointed in 1690, to receive the Prince of Orange,
and was
when he
He had received the principles of

Carrickfergus.
and
as
he
could
not uncover his head to any man,
George Fox,
before he came near to the Prince, he took off his hat and laid
came
to
on a stone by the way-side, and walked forward. When he

met the Prince, he accosted him thus,
William, thou art
I thank you, sir,' replied the
welcome to this Kingdom.'
Prince; and the interview was so satisfactory to the Prince
that he said, You are, sir, the best bred gentleman I have ever
met.'
His son John married Miss Horseman, of Carrick-
it
'
'
'
fergus.
[" *In the first week of June King William left Kensington, and
eight days afterwards he sailed from Hoylake, near Liverpool, under
the convoy of six men of war, commanded by Sir Cloudsley Shovel,
His Majesty being on board the yacht Mary, and the noblemen and
his landing
gentlemen composing his suit in the other vessels."
at Carrickfergus the King immediately mounted and rode on horseback
through the main street of the town, which was lined on both sides
with innumerable crowds of people, who bid his Majesty welcome with
continual shouts and acclamations." From a rare work entitled
"
Villare Hibernicum," 1690.]
*A large stone at the point of the quay is still called "King
"On
William's stone." from his having set his foot on it when landing.
2 Records of
Records of Belfast.
Carrickfergus.
'M'Skimin's Appendix.
73
The
1704,
Ormond arrived here, and was

Edward
This
Clements, mayor.
by
presented his grace, by the hands of Edward
duke
of
entertained
splendidly
corporation also
Lyndon, recorder, with the freedom of the

value
iS.
place, in a gold box,
March
1711.
Janet Mean, of Braid-island,
3ist,
Latimer,
Irish-quarter,
quarter,
Carrickfergus,
Carrickfergus,
Janet
Margaret Mitchel,
M'Calmond, Janet Listen,
alias
Seller,
Millar,
Kilroot,
Janet
Scotch-
Catharine
Elizabeth Seller, and
Janet Carson, the four last from Island Magee, were tried here,
Antrim court, for witchcraft. Their alleged
crime was tormenting a young woman called Mary Dunbar,
in the county of
about eighteen years of age, at the house of James Hattridge,

Island Magee, and at other places to which she was removed.
The
circumstances sworn on their
trial were as follow:

person being, in the month of February,
1711, in the house of James Hattridge,* Island Magee, (which
had been for some time believed to be haunted by evil spirits)
The
afflicted
found an apron in the parlour
floor, that
had been missing some
On the
time, tied with five strange knots, which she loosened.
following day she was suddenly seized with a violent pain in
her thigh, and afterwards fell into fits and ravings; and on
recovering, said she was tormented by several women, whose
dress and personal appearance she minutely described.
Shortly
and on recovering,
them
also.
The accused persons being brought from different parts
of the country, she appeared to suffer extreme fear, and
It was also
additional torture, as they approached the house.
after, she
was again
she accused
seized with the like
fits ;
women of tormenting
five other
her, describing
deposed, that strange noises, as of whistling, scratching, &c.

were heard in the house, and that a sulphureous smell was
observed in the rooms; that stones, turf, and the like, were
thrown about the house, and the
coverlets, &c. frequently taken
and made up in the shape of a corpse; and that

once walked out of the room into the kitchen, with a
off the beds,
a bolster
night
gown about
it
It
likewise appeared in evidence, that
some of her fits, three strong men were scarcely able to hold
her in the bed ; that at times she vomited feathers, cotton yarn,
in
[*The man whose house was supposed to be haunted by evil
was Mr. James Haltridge (not Hattridge), son of the Rev.
Haltridge, Presbyterian clergyman of Islandmagee.]
spirits
John
74
and buttons; and that on one occasion she slid off the
and was laid on the floor, as if supported and drawn by
an invisible power.
The afflicted person was unable to give
any evidence on the trial, being during that time dumb; but
had no violent fit during its continuance.
The evidence sworn upon this trial were, Rev.
Skevington, Rev. William Ogilvie, William Fenton, John
Smith, John Blair, James Blythe, William Hartley, Charles
pins,
bed,
Hugh Wilson, Hugh Donaldson, James

James Haltridge, Mrs. Haltridge, Rev. Patrick Adair,
Rev. James Cobham, Patrick Ferguson, James Edmonston, and
Lennon, John Wilson,
Hill,
Jamison.
In defence of the accused,
it
appeared that they were
mostly sober industrious people, who attended public worship,
could repeat the Lord's prayer, and had been known to pray
both in public and private; and that some of them had lately
received the communion.
Judge Upton charged the jury, and observed the regular

attendance of the accused on public worship ; remarking, that
he thought it improbable that real witches could so far retain
form of religion, as to frequent the religious worship of
God, both publicly and privately, which had been proved in
favour of the accused.
He concluded by giving his opinion,
"
that the jury could not bring them in guilty, upon the sole
He was
testimony of the afflicted person's visionary images."
followed by Justice Macartney, who differed from him in
"
and thought the jury might, from the evidence, bring
opinion,
them in guilty ; which they accordingly did."
This trial * lasted from six o'clock in the morning till two
the
afternoon; and the prisoners were sentenced to be

imprisoned twelve months, and to stand four times in the
in
the
l
pillory in Carrickfergus.
Tradition says, that the
people were much exasperated

against these unfortunate persons, who were severely pelted in
the pillory, with boiled eggs, cabbage stalks, and the like, by
which one of them had an eye beaten out.
For some time both before and

year,
Carrickfergus
after
the
last
noticed
appears to have been distracted by the
[*The Rev. William Tisdall, D.D., Vicar of Belfast, was present,

and an account of the trial, written by him, appeared in the "Hibernian
for January, 1775.]
Magazine,"
1
From
work
a rare manuscript lately published by the author of this
price 5d.
75
and
of
Whig
Tory; the former almost exclusively
dissenters, the latter chiefly belonging to the established church.
The violent tories were distinguished by the name of high-flyers;
factions
and
were
obedience
strenuous
and
advocates
for
the
doctrine
of
passive
as
promulgated by the noted

They openly accused the whigs of an intention to
Sacheverell.
non-resistance,
pull down the only true protestant church, and of a design to

subvert the constitution. 1
shall briefly notice a few of the
We
most remarkable incidents that took place here in connexion

with these bickerings of political and religious party.
About 1708, the repeal of the Test Act, by which the
dissenters laboured under several disabilities, became a favourite
object with that sect; and at a meeting of the quarter sessions
grand jury of this county, it was unanimously agreed to address
her majesty respecting its repeal. This address was afterwards
signed by three of the resident burgesses, and other inhabitants,
it
was
some of whom belonged to the episcopal church
:
presented to her Majesty by the earl of Pembroke, graciously

received, and published in the London Gazette of May 24,
2
i7o8.
Such a
distinction did not pass unnoticed
by the Tories
who immediately
industriously propagated, and afterwards

in
the
published
Flying Post for Sept. 30, 1708, and entered
in the records of the corporation, that the said address was
published without the knowledge of the corporation, and was

"
"
not the address
made at this Quarter Sessions ;
and, in a
"The
of
Conduct
entitled
about
this
time,
pamphlet published
it
was asserted, that the address was
Dissenters,"
"
clandestinely procured
by the Rev. Patrick Adair, dissenting
"
few of the
minister of Carrickfergus, and only signed by a
"
afterwards
were
which
falsehoods
publicly
Town-jury ;
the
"
contradicted in a paper signed by each juror.
1
These feuds were probably not a little owing to the conduct of
the established clergy of that time.
Bishop Burnet, in his History of
His Own Time, vo'l. 2, p. 315, says, that the greater part of the
"
Enemies to the Toleration, and soured against the
clergy were
Dissenters."
'
3
Presby^
the jurors were, William M'Hendry,
James Watson, William Fairfoote, John Brown, William Bell, James
Irwin, David Morison, Josiah Hamilton, John Campbell, John Jackson,
terian
Conduct of the Dissenters.

Loyalty.
The names
of
James Morison, John Mathews, Daniel M'Kirk, William Jafrie. John

Macomb, the other juror, was dead at the time of signing this second
The burgesses who signed were, John Brown, James Irwin,
paper.
and David Hood. Presbyterian Loyalty.
76
About the same time another circumstance occurred,
that
gave room for a further display of party rancour.

The
government being apprehensive that the Pretender meditated
the invasion of some part of these
kingdoms, an array of the
militia of this place was ordered, in common with those of the
Soon after, the Rev. Edward Mathews,
county of Antrim.
curate of Carrickfergus, circulated a report, that the Rev.
Patrick Adair had left the town when the militia were about to
be sworn in, although requested to stay by the Mayor, who
dreaded a disturbance among the dissenters, on account of a
false report having gone abroad, that "they must all Swear to
be Churchmen."i
This statement, on the authority of Mr.
"
Mathews, also appeared in the pamphlet called The Conduct

"
of the Dissenters ;
but was immediately contradicted, not only
by Mr. Adair, but also by Richard Horseman, mayor, and
William Wilkinson, a respectable inhabitant. 2
These false
might be expected, led to some disagreeable incidents.
Mr. Mathews and Mr. Adair, meeting soon after at the south
reports, as
end of
had such warm words respecting the above

when the former is said to have
Essex-street,
statement, that blows ensued,
been overcome. 3
Tradition likewise
affirms,
summer of 1714.
force the Dissenters'
that in the
the tories went so far as to take
up by
Catechism, when exposed for sale in the market-place, and even

threatened to nail up their place of worship ; and that a
military officer, proceeding to put this threat into execution, fell
dead on Gravott's bridge, West-street.
The rancorous spirit of intolerance and persecution appears

to have been pretty generally abroad about this time.
On the
1 7th July, same year, the Grand Jury of the county of Antrim,
assembled
at
assize,
with other gentlemen and freeholders of
said county, prepared an address, to be presented to her Majesty
Queen Anne.
In
address they highly approved of the

strongly reprobated any secession from
the established church ; and declared their unshaken loyalty to
"
her
Sacred Majesty," in opposition to those who, as they said,
before-mentioned
this
test
THE PEOPLE."
to their Sovereign Lord
"
with the utmost
declaring that they would.
"
whom they
zeal and indignation pursue those factious spirits
would "transfer
it
They concluded by
2
3
The Conduct
of the
Dissenters.
Tradition of old Inhabitants.
77
represented as endeavouring to undermine the throne. 1
Her
majesty died on the ist August following, and this address*
fell to the
ground.
The news of
her Majesty's decease was received here

by
those parties with very opposite sensations.
Some of the whigs
"
flew to the parish church, and began
a
ringing, on its bell,
"
while a party of the leading tories, who were at

merry peal ;
dinner in a Mrs. Young's, in High-street, are reported to have
been affected in a very different manner. 2
The death of the queen, the accession of the House of
Hanover, and the introduction of the whigs into power,
completely cooled, or at least silenced, the intemperate zeal of

the tories ; and from this time we learn no more of the excesses
of either faction
all
; the progressive growth of liberality banishing

such paltry distinctions. 3
In a manuscript of this date, written in Carrick1714.
fergus, we find the following memorandums: "1714, after a

mild winter such an excessive dry and hot summer followed, as
was not then in the memory of man. From early in May to
the
1 6th
July, not one drop of rain.
It
destroyed
all
the grass,
and occasioned an extreme scarcity of water for the cattle,

which farmers had often to drive several miles.
For want
of food and water the cattle mostly went dry, and many of
them died.
The harvest proved early but not plentiful,
especially in oats and summer barley, the latter entirely ruined."
It is added that butter was then selling in Belfast at
24. per
which
it is observed is
very dear.
In April, this year, Mathew Moiler, a dragoon, was
1715.
The circumstances
executed here for a robbery and assault.
were as follow. On the evening of the robbery, he had observed
ton,
a countryman receive some money for barley sold in this town ;

on which he waylaid him near Bridewell, knocked him down,
and abused him much, and took from him two pence halfpenny;
amongst others are signed the names of
Davies, and John Bashford, who probably
belonged to Carrickfergus.
[*This address with all the names of the supporters is printed in
the Belfast News-Letter for November soth, 1792.]
2
3
Customs often continue when the cause from which they
The fanaticism of Sacheverell gave rise
originated has long ceased.
to a new head-dress, which was worn by the ladies attached to the
Within our memory, several women here wore what was
tory faction.
was particularly distinguished by a
it
called the Sacheverell cap
little peak in front, formed by a large plait on each side.
1
MSS.
Henry
To
Magee,
this paper,
John
78
man having expended all save that sum. After sentence of

death was passed on him, he sold his body to W. A. Cunningham, surgeon, and lived well on the money while it lasted. He
was a very tall man; and as he walked out to execution, he
the
placed himself against the south side of the Irish-gate, and

requested one of the by-standers to mark his height, which was
done.
The mark remained there on a stone for many years,
a monument of his insensibility of mind, as well as the gigantic
1
stature of his body.
The
corporation protested strongly against Wood's

about
which a national outcry had been raised.
halfpence,*
"
He seems." say they, "the great Alchymist who has found out
1724,
"
the Secret of turning Copper into Gold ;

and they declare,
"
it is a shame
to enrich a single Stranger, who must build
2
his Fortune on the Ruins of an unfortunate People."
that
1732, April 25th, the duke of Dorset (lord lieutenant of

Ireland,) the dutchess of Dorset, lord Forbes, and Sir Molden
Lambert, landed at the Ranbuy, being driven into this lough by
a storm.
Dobbs,
During
esq.
their stay, they
sailed for Pargate.
1737,
lodged at the house of Arthur
They embarked on the 28th same month, and

3
Samuel and Richard Chaplin, merchants of
this
place, fitted out a ship, and commenced a very promising whale

fishery in the bay of Killybegs, and near St. John's point,
4
county Donegall.
They continued this fishery several years.
In the journals of the Irish House of Commons, of 1739, we

1

without a small copper coinage,
and as much inconvenience had arisen from the want of halfpence and
farthings, Walpole, as the head of the Treasury, had issued a patent
to William Wood, of Wolverhampton, who had extensive iron and
[*As Ireland had been
of
late
copper works, authorising him to coin ^90,000 in copper for circulation

A cry arose in Ireland against these coins. The profits
in Ireland.
of the undertaking were calculated to put ^40,000 into the pockets
It was asserted that they were
of the King and Duchess of Kendal.
so small and of such base metal that the ninety thousand would be
Both houses of the Irish Parliament
worth little more than nine.
which proved
presented to the King addresses on the subject,
"
Dean Swift, in five letters called the
Drapier Letters,"
unavailing.
inveighed in homely, powerful language against the evil results of the
Wood coinage. "As far as the true value of these halfpence," said
"
he,
any person may expect to get a quart of two-penny ale for thirtyIn the end the King found it prudent to cancel the
six of them."
patent to Wood, who received as compensation a grant of .3,000 a
year for twelve years.]
2
3
Gill's MSS.
*
London Gentleman's Magazine. Tradition.
79
find the following notice:
"Resolved, that it
this Committee, that the sum of .500
of
is the Opinion
be granted to
Samuel Chaplin, to enable him to prosecute the

Discovery he has made of a Whale Fishery on the West Coast
of this Kingdom." Mr. Chaplin died about this time, and no
part of the above grant was ever received by his family.
Lieutenant
February 1738, the Belfast Xews-Letter of this date

records a very remarkable instance of what was then deemed
an exhorbitant price for provisions.
James Granger, dealer,
Scotch-quarter, having advanced the price of his oatmeal from
is. id. to is. 4d. the peck, or 18 Ib. ; the
people were so much
enraged that they dragged his effigy, as a mark of disgrace,
through the streets and lanes of the town.
On the evening of Dec. 26, a great frost com1739.
The frost
accompanied by a high piercing wind.
till the isth
February, and was afterwards called
the black frost, from the unusually dark appearance of the ice,
and because the sun seldom shone during its continuance. 1
The following particulars of the great frosts of 1684-5,
and 1739-40, are copied from the MSS. of Henry Gill, Esq.
"On the 26th of December, 1739, tne a ^ r sensibly altered, and
became cooler, with a fresh breeze of wind which encreased
every day, until the 29th of the same month, when it did blow
violently, as also the day after; and what was most extraordinary, that it froze most intensely during the time of the
high winds ; and the cold was so exquisite, that it was almost
menced,
continued
impossible to face it, or even to keep warm in the closest room,

Said frost continued without any
although with plenty of fire.
sensible thaw, until the i5th February following.
The oldest
man now living, does not remember so intense a frost, for the
frost that came on in the year 1684, on the i6th
December, and continued until the i7th of March following,
the air after a few days was mild, considering the vast quantity
of snow and frost; but during the continuance of the above
frost it continued extremely cold."
1741, a very cheap year,
wheat sold for 45. per cwt. and beef at id. per Ib.
1744. The autumn of this year was uncommonly wet and
cold, and much grain was spoiled in the fields, all over the
north of Ireland; from which this was called the rot year.
Provisions were scarce and dear the following spring, and a
great
Gill's
MSS.
Tradition.
8o
considerable mortality arose
1
quality of their food.
among
the cattle,
from the bad
In January, an additional company of militia was

of which Davys Wilson was captain.
In October, same year, an alarm prevailed, that the Pretender,
then in Scotland, intended to land a body of highlanders on
1745.
formed
at Carrickfergus,
the adjoining coast, as a diversion to prevent government from

sending troops out of Ireland against him.
Accordingly, on
the 28th of the month, this town and castle were garrisoned by
the militia of the place, and a
The
latter,
company of Belfast volunteers.

who had been armed, clothed and disciplined at
own
Linen yarn at this

expense, continued here ten days.
time sold so low as from 3d. to 4d. per hank. 2
their
1747.
About October, oatmeal sold here
at
43.
lod. per
cwt. of 112 Ibs.
apth, there happened an extraordinary high

Near the Water-gate it swept away the road, part of the
town wall, and several houses, and left the quay a heap of
I
75> January
tide.
ruins.
1750 April loth, nine men and one woman were lost near
In July, same
the White-house, by the over-setting of a boat.
year, vast quantities of herrings were taken off the Black-head.
1752.
October
12,
Richard
Taylor,
Andrew Granger,
Samuel M'Cullen, and Daniel Kirk, inhabitants of this place,

were killed at the castle, by the bursting of an old cannon ; the
gunner having wadded it with wet hay, to cause a loud report.
September 2d was rendered memorable by a
1756.
remarkably high wind, which did considerable damage to the
This caused a dearth
ripened grain, much being shaken off.
the following year, during which oatmeal sold at three shillings
and sixpence per 18 Ibs. and potatoes at two shillings per
bushel.
Both were scarce, and Barley meal was the general
food of the lower classes ; hence this was called the barley meal
summer. On the day of the above storm, the Patriot Club of
the county Antrim met in this town; Arthur Upton, Esq. one
of the representatives in Parliament for Carrickfergus, in the
chair.
Forty two members were present, and "A plan of
"
association was formed and subscribed."
declaring their
the
and
readiness to defend
Constitution," but at the same
King
1
2
1

MSS.
Record of Carrickfergus.
Tradition
of
old
Inhabitants.
8i
time expressing their determination inflexibly to oppose " all

measures tending to infringe the sacred Right of the Pea-pie''
1760.
Thursday, February 21 st, about 10 o'clock A.M.,
commodore Thourot
arrived
in
this
Le Bland,
ships; Belleisle, 44 guns,
bay,
32,
with the following
and Terpsichore, 24;
and detaining two
1
fishing boats belonging to the Scotch quarter,
land
to
between
800
and
at
Kilroot point,
men,
proceeded
700
about two miles east of Carrickfergus.
As the men landed, they were formed into two divisions,

and immediately advanced by different routes to attack the
town ; the one crossing the fields towards the North-gate, and
the other by the Scotch-quarter, or Water-gate.
At this time the troops in garrison consisted of a detach-
ment
General
of
Strode's
regiment
(62d,
mostly
recruits)
commanded by Lieutenant Colonel Jennings who, on the first

report that the men who had landed were enemies, sent out a
Same time, some French prisoners
party to reconnoitre them.
who had been confined in the castle, were sent off to Belfast,
under an escort of 40 armed inhabitants, commanded by Mr.
;
James M'llwain.
About the same
period, Willoughby Chaplin, mayor,

waited on Colonel Jennings, to learn if he meant to defend the
He replied, that from the smallness of his force, and
place.
the ruinous state of the
castle,'
he deemed resistance rather
Mr. Chaplin said, that he must defend the

unnecessary.
garrison, or his conduct should be reported to government; on
which the Colonel retired into the castle, and made the best
disposition possible for
Hercules
and joined the
its
defence.
and a few other
Ellis,
Mr. Chaplin, Lieutenant
inhabitants, entered the castle,
military.
time the parties were warmly engaged in the

Scotch-quarter, and near the North-gate, which was for some
General Flobert, comtime defended from the town wall.
By
mander
this
in chief
of the enemy, being wounded in the
leg,
about
the centre of the Scotch-quarter, was carried into the house of

Mr. James Craig. This party entered by the Water-gate, and
after
some
firing in
High-street,
were joined in the Market-
John Steen, Wm. Cullogh, Wm.

Daniel Caughey, John Davison, and Henry Bishop.
2
There was a breach towards the sea of near 50 feet wide, and
not a cannon mounted.
3
As the enemy advanced in High-street, the follo%ving remarkable
circumstance took place, which we record, ns perhaps an unequalled
1
Fishers detained by Thourot
Scott,
82
by the division that had forced their way down Northofficer and several men.
street,
now
advanced
in the most determined manner to
They
assault the castle, and forced the upper gate, which had not
place,
with the loss of an
been
sufficiently
entrance.
They
secured
were,
by the troops
after
their
hurried
soon driven back with
however,
loss.
period of the action, the gallant officer who led the

advanced division, was slain ; * and the assailants were obliged
At
this
to take refuge under cover of the adjoining houses,

wall north of the castle.
Of
this cessation the
and an old
brave garrison were unable to take
any advantage, having expended nearly all their ammunition.

A parley was therefore beaten, and the garrison capitulated
upon honourable terms, stipulating that the town should not be
The capitulation* was signed by Colonel Jennings,
plundered.
and Colonel Dusulier, in the house of William Wilkinson,
M. Thourot was present on this occasion
he
High-street.
spoke English fluently, and was very polite, but appeared much
fatigued, and slept for a short time in the house of Mr. Jame
:
Cobham. 2
'
instance of heroism and humanity. The parties being engaged, and the
English retreating, Thomas Seeds, a child, son of John Seeds, Sheriff,
ran playfully between them which being observed by the French officer
who commanded the advanced division, he took up the child, ran with
it
which happened to be its father's, and
to the nearest door,
immediately returning, resumed his hostilities. Tradition of old
;
Inhabitants.
1
On the gate
It was he who took up the child, as just related.
being forced open, he was the first who entered; at which time he was
observed to kiss a miniature picture that he took from his bosom. He
fell between the gates.
He is said to have been of a noble family, by
name D'Esterees; and is described to have been a remarkably fine
In
a work
lately
looking man. Tradition of old Inhabitants.
"
NAVAL A\D MILITARY ANECDOTES/' he is called

published, entitled,
the Marquis De Scordeck, and said to have been a native of Switzerland.
[*In Part I. of Volume X. of the Ulster Journal of Archaeology

Dr. John S. Crone gives the Articles of Capitulation.
On May 5th, 1760, the Rev. John Wesley paid his third visit to
He accepted an invitation from Mr. Cobham, a
Carrickfergus.
merchant in the town, to stop at his house, where he had an
Here Wesley
opportunity of meeting Lieutenant General Cavaignac.
learned full particulars of the landing of the French, and wrote soon
"
neither hurt nor affronted man,
after that they, when in the town,
Wesley's
woman, nor child, nor did any mischief for mischief's sake."
Journal, Dent's Edition, Vol. 2, p. 507.
2
On this dav the mayor was invited to dinner by the French
after which, the glass having circulated pretty freely, Thourot
officers
requested Mr. Chaplin to sing a song who, after some intreaties "from
The
the different officers, complied, and sung, with much spirit,
;
The number of
who surrendered amounted to 10

10 corporals, 5 drummers, and 102 rank
and file. They had only two killed and three wounded. One
was killed on the half-moon; and from the wound being in
the back of his head, it was believed that he had been shot
accidentally, by some of those who fired from the top of the
ii
officers,
troops
Serjeants,
castle.
The enemy had about 50

officers;
killed,
among whom were
and about the same number wounded.
three
Their killed
were buried close by the castle, in the ground now occupied as

a garden by the ordnance storekeeper.
It is said that M. Thourot wished to land at White-house,
and surprise Belfast; but that the general objected, fearing to
be harassed by a garrison left in his rear.
On the first alarm of an enemy intending to attack the
town,
some
generally
timid
shut
people
their
up
fled;
doors
and those who remained,

and windows, and quietly
In the evening, guards were stationed on the

and sentinels placed on the
houses of some of the principal inhabitants, to prevent their
being plundered; yet many houses were broken into, and
l
and even the church
despoiled of their most valuable effects;
remained within.
different roads leading into town,
enemy were
mayor, was
its
plate.
intoxicated in houses,
fifty resolute
Friday.
During the night, so many of the

and about the streets, that
men could have made them all prisoners.
was robbed of
Early
morning, John Hagan, servant to the

Woodburn bridge. He had been
this
killed near lower
British Grenadiers." Thourot heard him out with perfect good nature;
but some of the officers, who understood English, were rather ruffled.
1
Two French soldiers going into the house of an old woman called
Mave Dempsey, one of them took her silk handkerchief, and was
when Mave, who was a pious Roman
putting it into his pocket
Catholic, presented her beads at him, doubtless expecting that he would
be struck with compunction by such a forcible appeal to his conscience.
" dat be
" Ah " said the
good for
soldier, with a significant shrug,
It was observed, that the
your soul dis be good for my body."
French soldiers never lost their national politeness. On one occasion,
in taking a lady's ear-rings, the soldier who requested to have them
made as many bows, scrapes, and motions with his hand, as one of
our most consummate dandies, on entering a drawing-room.
'On the 2ist of the following October, the Irish House of
Commons granted full compensation to the inhabitants for their losses
about ^600 of
by the French. The sum granted was ^4,285 12 o
which was afterwards returned to government. Among the items was
In June, the following year, an additional
17 for the church plate.
200 was paid to Mr. John Campbell, surgeon, for his losses.
journals of the Irish House of Commons. Parish Registry.
;
84
hiding his master's plate, when called on by a sentinel to stand ;

but hastening his pace, he was fired at and shot.
The few
casks of gunpowder remaining in the magazine were taken out
and staved in the outer yard of the castle.
soldier passing
in the act of smoking,
a spark blew from his pipe into the

powder, by which accident four or five of his comrades were
blown into the sea.

The town being inadequate to supply the enemy with the
David Fullerton, dissenting
provisions wanted, the Rev.
minister, and a French officer, were sent to Belfast on this day,
with a flag of truce, and a letter to the Sovereign of that town.
In this letter they demanded provisions to the amount of about
;i2oo, declaring, that if not immediately sent, they would
burn both Belfast and Carrickfergus. After some deliberation,
an answer was returned, that their wishes would be complied
with as soon as possible ; and a part of the provisions demanded
were shipped on board two lighters, but the weather being
rough, they could not sail that evening.
On this day the French liberated the greater part of the

The only
prisoners confined in the county of Antrim gaol.
person confined in the prison of the county of the town of
Carrickfergus, was a
woman, for
the murder of her bastard
whom
they would not liberate, expressing the utmost

detestation of the crime with which she stood charged.
child,
Saturday.
This morning, a flag of truce arrived from
Belfast, letting the French commander know the cause of delay,

and that the lighter would sail, if possible, with the evening
tide.
One of
the lighters accordingly sailed that evening, but
was stopped by a tender in Garmoyle. Some parties of very1

irregular militia, who had assembled at Belfast and Bellahill.
1
The following corps of militia had assembled at Bellahill, under
the care and direction of Robert Dahvay, esq. by whom both officers
and men were treated with great hospitality : Island Magee, Raloo,
Glynn, Templecoran, Kilroot, Bellahill, and liberties of Carrickfergus,
amounting to 200 men. These assembled on Friday they were mostly

armed, and commanded as follows
captain, Mariott Dalway, esq.
lieutenants, Rev. James Dunbar, Messrs. Patrick Allan and Edward
Hudson. Larne, 115 men, of lord Antrim's regiment; captain, Adam
lieutenants, Messrs. James Agnew and James Blair
Johnston, esq.
arrived on Friday.
Glenarm, 120 men, of lord Antrim's regiment
lieutenants, Messrs. John Mitchell and
captain, James Myres, esq.
arrived on Sunday,
William Higginson ensign, Rev. Thomas Reid
armed, and in uniform. Belfast News-Letter, 1760.
[Fifty-five men of the Carnmoney Volunteer Company, commanded
by Henry Langford Burleigh, were at Carrickfergus on the 25th of
Belfast News- Letter, March 28th, 1760.]
February, at Thourot's invasion.
;
being seen this day by the enemy's scouts some miles from the
town, created much alarm and late in the evening, the
not having arrived as expected, they
became
provisions
impatient
and exasperated,
and another
flag
of
truce
was
despatched to Belfast, with a letter from Mr. Fullerton to the

Sovereign, letting him know that if the provisions were not
sent down early next morning, they would burn Carrickfergus,
put the inhabitants to the sword, and march to Belfast.
These threats had the desired effect; for, early on Sunday

some cars arrived from Belfast, with part of the promised
provisions, and a number of live bullocks, with which arrived,
as drovers, some of the inhabitants who had guarded the
French prisoners to Belfast.
The lighter that had been
detained, also arrived about the same time, and the enemy were
very busy this evening in getting provisions and fresh water on
board.
Monday, they continued actively employed as above, and

evidently were in some confusion; it was believed they had
received notice of the troops marching against them.
Tuesday, the last of the French re-embarked
from our
about 4 P. M., carrying along with them Willoughby

Chaplin, mayor, George Spaight, port-surveyor, and the Rev.
quay,
David Fullerton. The latter gentleman, being much indisposed,

was afterwards put on shore at Kilroot; the others were on
board the Belleisle when taken on the following Thursday.
Both were treated by M. Thourot with the utmost politeness.
On the 2;th, the French ships lay still at their anchorage, the
wind blowing so hard from the N. W. as to prevent them
getting out of the bay.
They sailed about one o'clock on the
morning of the 28th, during a strong northerly wind;
at
time the lights of the English squadron, then bearing

the channel, could be discerned from the high lands
which
down
near
Donaghadee.
They had scarcely left the town, when the advanced guard
of the English forces arrived from Belfast, whither the
'The French forces consisted of volunteer draughts from regular
French
which draughts were commanded as follow
regiments
Guards, Le Comte De Kersalls, commandant, M. De Cavenac, colonel
Swiss Guards, Cassailas, commandant
Regiment of Burgundy, De
commandant
Roussilly,
Regiment of Camkise, Frechcan, commandant Hussars, Le Comte De Skerdeck, commandant Voluntaures
:
Estrangers,
2
Tradition.
Belfast
commandant.
News-Letter,
60.
86
following regiments had been marched, with all speed, from
of the kingdom
Pole's, Anstruther's, Sandford's,
different parts
and Seabright's foot;
and
Mostyn's,
and Whitley's
Yorke's
dragoons.
The French squadron was

28th,
off
Brilliant
the
of
Isle
frigates,
under
Commodore Thourot
hour and a half.
attacked and captured on the

by the yEolus, Pallas, and
Mann,
was
the
command of Captain
Elliott.
which lasted an
The French had nearly 300 killed and
wounded; the English, 3
killed in the action,
killed,
31 wounded.
M. Thourot was born in Boulogne. His paternal grandfather,

was a native of Ireland, and an officer in the army of
James II. With that monarch he fled to France, where he died. His
widow survived but a very short time, during which she gave birth to
a son, in Boulogne, who was left to the care of her family, and went
by their name of Thourot.
Remaining in Boulogne many years, he
became acquainted with one Farrell, an Irish smuggler, who claimed
His son (afterwards commodore Thourot), who
relationship with him.
was then about fifteen years of age, embarked with Farrell for
Limerick
but, stopping at the Isle of Mann, a dispute took place
between them, and young Thourot hired himself to a gentleman of
Anglesea. This person was an experienced smuggler, and had several
captain Farrell,
vessels in the trade, in one of which Thourot sometimes went.

Upon
one occasion, he was sent to Cariingford, where he remained almost
a year, to manage some business of importance.
At Cariingford he
and instead
acquired a tolerable knowledge of the English language
of returning to his master, set off for Dublin, with only a few shillings
in his pocket.
There he entered into the service of lord B
with
,
whom he lived nearly two years, under the name of Dauphine. He
next entered into the service of the earl of Antrim, and went with the
family to Glenarm, where, falling in with some smugglers, he soon
joined them, and made several trips between Ireland and Scotland.
Having acquired some money, he proceeded to Edinburgh, where he
became acquainted with a Mr.
and .was for some time master
of one of his sloops, called the Annie, which traded to London.
;
From
1752, he traded between England and France, and

Boulogne, where at last he was arrested as a smuggler.
Having remained for some time in prison at Dunkirk, he was transmitted to Paris, where he underwent an examination as to the most
means of checking the contraband trade. Through the
effectual
interest of M. Tallard, the son of his godmother, he not only obtained
his liberty, but also the command of a sloop of war
and in 1750,
chiefly
1748
till
to
knowledge of the channel, was selected to command the

squadron, which was captured as above. Annual Register, 1760.
M. Thourot's watch, a single cased gold one, was till lately in
the possession of a gentleman near Belfast, and keeping time accurately.
[Commodore Thurot was early killed in action. He was sewed
up in one of the silk velvet carpets of his cabin and cast into the sea.
On the ist March some bodies came to land between Eggnerness
and Barrowhead on the Galloway Coast. Thurot was known by his
He was buried with
uniform and by the initials on his body linen.
full military honours in the old Churchyard of Kirkmaden, Sir Wm.
British Battles by Land
Maxwell, of Montrcith, being chief mourner.
and Sea. ]
2
Captain Elliott's Despatch to the Lord Lieutenant.
owing
to his
89
On
the ist March, the Pallas frigate arrived in this bay,

at our quay part of the French prisoners* taken,
and landed
amounting
to
immediately
15
sent
following April.
to Cork.
officers,
to
The
and 216 private men.f
Belfast,
where they
They were
remained
till
the
other vessels proceeded with the prizes
Soon after, the garrison received the thanks of both houses

of parliament, for their gallant conduct on this occasion. On
the 1 2th March, the gentlemen of this town and neighbourhood
returned their public thanks to Colonel Jennings, and the officers
and soldiers under his command, for their decided bravery ;

and they also received the public thanks of the grand jury
of the county Antrim, at the lent assize following, for their
The
conduct ;
excellent
signed
James Leslie, foreman.
weavers' guild, Carrickfergus, returned their public thanks to
Lieutenant Benjamin Hall, for his personal bravery, and
presented him with the freedom of their guild, in an elegant
silver box.
1 6th.
William Martin, a soldier of the 2gth
been
was
to
have
executed in Carrickfergus this day,
regiment,
for the murder of Hugh M'Clugan, on the 2oth of the preceding
1763, April
October, in a quarrel at Belfast ; but the grenadier company to

which he belonged, then quartered in Belfast, resolved to effect
his liberation.
About one o'clock in the morning of the above
day, they entered this town
and proceeding to the
gaol, broke
open the dungeon doors with sledges, and took out said Martin,
and Robert M'Gulliaham, who was to have been executed same
In the adjoining cell was
day, for a burglary in Lisburn.
Sarah Dogherty, under the like sentence for poisoning John
M'Aravy, in Belfast. She was very clamorous to be released;
but on learning her crime, they refused any assistance, and
The prisoners released were

she was hanged next morning.
carried out of town, when their irons were struck off, and the
and confined
prisoners taken after Thurot's defeat,
See a pamphlet reprinted in
received very bad treatment.
the Ulster Journal of Archceology, Vol. X, Part III.]
a list of 25
[t The Belfast News-Letter of March 7th, 1760, gives
officers and 416 men who were landed at the quay.]
1
Belfast News-Letter,
1760.
a ballad was written and published here by a
[*
in
The French
Belfast,
Immediately after,
" in
" The
1764,
William Magennis, called
Siege of Carrickfergus
a play was published in Belfast, bearing the same title; and in 1770
of
name
the
a pantomime was presented on the Belfast stage, by
;
"
Thourot, or the Siege of Carrickfergus."
9o
None of
party returned to Belfast, as silently as they came.
the prisoners were retaken ; but seventeen of the soldiers soon
after deserted, to escape punishment for this rescue. 1
About the beginning of this year, the peaceable
of Carrickfergus, in common with those of the
surrounding country, were alarmed by the Hearts of Steel, an
armed body, who, under the specious pretext of redressing
1770.
inhabitants
grievances, such as the high rent of lands, had organised a very

extensive system of depredation ; burning houses, houghing
&c.
cattle,
They
also levied contributions for the support
of
by sending letters about the country, ordering

those to whom they were addressed to lay the sums therein
named at such and such places, on pain of having their property
their association,
destroyed.
In March, they burned a house in the North East Division,

the property of Edward Brice, and destroyed the trees and
fences on said farm ; and escaping punishment for these and
other depredations, they sent, in February,
letters into this town, directed to William
1771, threatening
Boyd and Robert
In these letters, the above

respectable inhabitants.
persons were directed to lay a specified sum of money, on a
certain night, at a place called the Priests Bush, on the
Martin,
Commons;
town
or in default thereof,
they threatened to lay the
in ashes.
There being no military here at this time, late on the

evening that the money was to have been left, 70 volunteer
inhabitants, well armed, proceeded, by direction of the mayor,
to the Priest's Bush, and succeeded in apprehending Stafford
Love, a leader, and seven other Hearts of Steel, who had come
receive the money.
The prisoners were brought to this
town, but were allowed to escape; two of them were nephews
About this time, a house was
to William Boyd, just mentioned.
to
burned
Dalway.
in
the
Middle
Division,
the
property
of
Marriott
1772.
May Qth, George M'Keown, John Campbell, John
Clark, and James M'Neilly, Hearts of Steel, were executed here.
1
Belfast News-Letter. Records of the County of Antrim. Tradition
of old Inhabitants.
The amount of the value of this house was afterwards laid on
the county by assessment. As Roman Catholics were not implicated in
III.,
these depredations, it was levied, according to the statute of
"of the Protestant inhabitants." Records of Carrickfergus.
Wm.
The
last person suffered for the

burning of the house in the
Middle Division, Carrickfergus ;
the others belonged to the
county Antrim, and suffered for acts committed in said county.
On the 1 6th same month, Hugh M'llpatrick, John Black,
Thomas Stewart, and Thomas Ward, Hearts of Steel, were
likewise executed ; and on the 1 9th of the following September,
John Blair, a leader of the Hearts of Steel, likewise suffered.
These persons were also from the county Antrim. From this
time, all burnings, and other atrocities of the like nature, ceased.
Many who were accused of the crime of being Steel-men, fled
J
to America.
1775, September 2d, about two o'clock, P.M., a large black

cloud, of an ominous appearance, was observed suspended over
Divis mountain, near Belfast.
short time after its first
separated into two distinct parts, the one taking

the northern side of said mountain, the other lowering towards
appearance
it
At Shankhill bridge it commenced its work of

by carrying off ten cocks of hay from the adjoining
meadows, and also such corn as was cut; the reapers flying
from the fields in the utmost terror.
Keeping a north east
and
course, it did considerable damage near Whitehouse;
Shankhill.
destruction,
entering the lower part of the parish of Carrickfergus, carried

away all the hay and corn that were cut in the fields it passed
over, having twirled them in the air in a most singular manner.
Near lower Woodburn bridge, it tore several large trees out of

and at the Windmill-hill some persons who were passing
were lifted from the ground, and thrown into an adjoining
root,
Continuing its devastations, it swept a considerable

quantity of corn and hay from the adjacent fields; several hayricks were entirely carried away, and appeared to gambol as
Some houses were also injured; at
they took their departure.
Duffs-hill it entered the door of a house that was open, and
ditch.
rear, leaving the front standing.

and Braid-island, it seemed to gain vigour.
Kilroot
Crossing
In the latter, it conveyed away a hay stack that was nearly
completed, while the people who had been putting it up were
carried
at
away
its
dinner; and at
Lame
lough,
it
lifted
up the waters
M'Neilly most solemnly declared that he was innocent.
his sister, disguised in his clothes, committed

which he suffered.
2
Belfast News-Letter.
the Countv of Antrim.
said
till
that
the
they
It
act
was
for
Records of
appeared
and transported them to a

Having touched a small part of Island
did also much damage, it was at length lost
like floating white clouds,
considerable distance.
Magee, where
it
in the channel.
This tornado was succeeded by vivid lightning, and most

tremendous peals of thunder, accompanied with a heavy fall of
rain and hail.
The hail, or rather masses of ice, fell in a
several pieces measured
of
great variety
irregular shapes
upwards of six inches in circumference. The ground over which
1
this hurricane passed scarcely exceeded half a mile in breadth.
:
1
Belfast News-Letter. Tradition of old Inhabitants. The part that
took the northern side of the mountain, did some damage in the
upper part of the parish of Templepatrick. Belfast News-Letter.
NORTH GATE, CARRICKFERGUS.
CHAPTER
VIII.
2oth, the Ranger, an American vessel,

April
the celebrated Paul Jones, arrived at the
entrance of Carrickfergus bay, and hoisting signal for a
pilot,
a fishing boat belonging to the Scotch-quarter went
alongside,
1778.
commanded by
the crew of which were immediately made prisoners. 1

These
men the commander examined separately, respecting the force
of the garrison, and the number of guns carried by the Drake,
an armed vessel then lying opposite the castle; and being

informed of her force, he lay off till night, when he entered the
bay with an intention to board the Drake by surprise. Flood
tide, and a brisk gale during a snow shower, prevented his
laying the Ranger alongside the Drake; on which he left this
and proceeding to Whitehaven, he landed there at 12
bay,
on the night of the 22d, with about fifty men, spiked

the guns on the batteries, burned several vessels in the harbour,
and retired without the loss of a man. At 10 o'clock on the
o'clock
morning of the 23d, he arrived off St. Mary's isle, near

Kirkcudbright, and landed with about forty men, intending to
take lord Selkirk prisoner ; but learning that his lordship was
from home, he walked for some time on the beach, while his
lieutenants and men visited the castle of lord Selkirk, and
demanded his plate; which was delivered to them by lady
Selkirk.
Early on the morning of the 24th, he again appeared at

The Drake had sent out a boat, with
an officer and six men, to reconnoitre; but they were captured
the entrance of this bay.
Soon after, the Drake

by the Ranger, off the Black head.
bore down upon the Ranger, and an engagement ensued, about
mid-channel. Captain Burden, who commanded the Drake, was
killed early in the action
Fishers
James
Peelin,
lieutenant Dobbs, second in
David Milliken, John

and David M'Calpin.
taken,
Davison,
command,
John
Burchall,
94
l
was mortally wounded;

and the vessel being much cut up in
her rigging, the men, who were mostly young hands, got into
confusion, and she was forced to strike to the Ranger, after an
and fifteen minutes. The Drake had two
and twenty-five wounded; the Ranger three killed,
action of one hour
men
killed,
and
five
The comparative
wounded.
force of the vessels, with
was nearly equal. The Drake carried twenty

four
guns,
pounders the Ranger eighteen six pounders, besides
swivels.
On board the Ranger were 155 able seamen, some of
whom were Irishmen one a native of Carrickfergus the Drake
had fewer hands, most of whom were ordinary seamen. Shortly after the action, Paul Jones liberated the fishermen,
giving them a boat, with provisions to carry them home, and
respect to guns,
also the main-sail of the Drake.
On
his arrival at Brest, lord
was sold for the benefit of the captors ; but it

by Paul Jones, who, in March, 1785, returned
safe to lord Selkirk, and even paid for its carriage home.
Selkirk's plate
was bought in
it
all
1
This gentleman was son of the Rev. Dr. Richard Dobbs, Lisburn,
and brother to the Rev. Richard Dobbs, Dean of Connor, and Francis
He was a volunteer on this occasion, and
Dobbs, barrister at law.
joined the Drake a little before the action, early in which he received
a mortal wound.
While alive, he was treated with great kindness by
Paul Jones he was much esteemed, and had only been married a few
;
A
days.
Lisburn.
2
monument
From
Paul Jones,
is
erected to his
accounts of the Fishermen
memory
the parish church of
who were taken by Paul Jones
in his letter to lady Selkirk,
" more than her

the Drake had
in
dated Brest,
May
8th,
1778,
complement of officers and

men, besides a number of Volunteers who came out from CarrickLieutenant Dobbs was the only
fergus." This is a direct falsehood.
person on board who did not belong to her she being really short of
Her first lieutenant, Studdard,
her complement of officers and men.
had been interred the evening before at Carrickfergus, and lieutenant
Jelf, and six men, were prisoners on board the Ranger, as already
mentioned. From accounts of the Fishermen who were taken by Paul
says,
full
Jones.
From
London Gentleman's
accounts of the above Fishers.
Paul Jones was the son of Robert Craik, an officer of
His mother was a servant
excise, of Arliggling, county of Dumfries.
and as Mr. Craik did not wish that he should take his name, the one
At the age of 13 he
he was known by was that of his gardener.
and in the service of the United States, displayed
sailed for America
uncommon intrepidity, for which he received the thanks of Congress,
and a gold medal. In 1788, he entered into the service of Russia. He
died at Paris in 1792, and the National Assembly ordered a deputation
He left a considerable sum of
of their body to attend his funeral.
money, which was remitted to his sisters in Scotland. Monthly
Edinburgh Magazine.
Magazine.
In 1905,
[Paul Jones was buried in St. Louis's Cemetery, Paris.
his grave was discovered by General Porter, U.S. Ambassador to
France his bones removed to Annapolis, U.S.A., and buried with full
3
Magazine.
military honours.]
95
August 3d, commodore Gower, in the Hebe frigate,

on board which vessel prince
William Henry, his majesty's third son, was a lieutenant. It
being expected that he would land, the Carrickfergus Royal
Volunteers addressed the commodore, requesting him to permit
them to receive his Royal Highness under arms, and to be his
guard of honour while on shore. To this request a very polite
answer was returned, that if his Royal Highness landed, he
"
wished to be quite private,
as had already been done at
1785.
arrived in
Carrickfergus bay,
He
Portsmouth."
did not land.
About 4 o'clock this morning, several

of an earthquake were felt in this town: tables,
chairs, &c., were observed to be agitated during its continuance.
The like was also felt about the same time at Holywood, in the
1786. August nth.
slight shocks
county of
Down 2
1787.
August
7th,
Charles Manners,
Duke of Rutland,
quay from Bangor,

accompanied by lord Hillsborough, the bishop of Down and
He was received on the
Connor, and other eminent persons.
quay by the different members of the corporation, and presented
by the mayor with the freedom of the town in a gold box,
In the evening, his
accompanied with a suitable address.
Excellency and suite, with a numerous company of gentlemen,
were splendidly entertained by the corporation; on which
occasion his excellency conferred the honour of knighthood on
William Kirk, esq., then mayor. Seventeen gentlemen who were
present at this entertainment, were presented with the freedom
lord Lieutenant of Ireland, landed at this
of this corporation in silver boxes. 3

1796.
September i6th, William Weir, Dunmurry, James
Fitzgerald, Sandybay, and James Brady, Lisburn, were brought
prisoners to Carrickfergus, and lodged in the county Antrim
gaol, charged with offences of a treasonable nature, as United
Those were the first persons confined in this kingdom,

Same month, William
belonging to those memorable societies.
Orr, John Alexander, John M'Clelland, Hugh Dinsmore, and
Robert Saunderson, with several others, were lodged in the same
Irishmen.
prison,
on similar charges.
April 28th, oatmeal sold here at from is. sd. to
per peck of 18 Ibs. ; potatoes, from 6d. to 7d. per
1797.
is.
6d.
bushel; and new milk, id. per quart.
London
2
3
Gentleman's Magazine.
MS.
96
About this time, a considerable ferment prevailed throughout this kingdom, of which Carrickfergus was not without its
share.
Some of the troops quartered in the castle, having been
detected in a confederacy with the disaffected, several of them
were confined; two deserted; and some inhabitants, accused of
seducing the military from their allegiance, either fled, or were
committed to prison.
June yth, Judges Yelverton and
Chamberlaine arrived with a special commission, when some of
the prisoners charged with treasonable practices were arraigned ;
they
accordingly
declared
themselves
for
ready
trial.
The
crown lawyers signifying that they were not prepared, the

judges soon after returned to Dublin without doing anybusiness here, save administering the oath of allegiance to 333
persons, in the county of Antrim hall.
At the assizes held on September i8th following, many

prisoners charged as above, were liberated, on taking the oath
of allegiance, and giving bail; and a few were transmitted to
Dublin.
William
Insurrection
Orr*
of
Act,
was
found
administering
the
guilty,
oath
of
under the
a United
Irishman to two soldiers of the Fifeshire Fencibles, in Antrim,

[* William Orr was a respectable farmer from Farranshane, near
Antrim, whose trial excited remarkable interest. He was defended by
Curran, the greatest forensic orator whom Ireland has ever produced.
At seven o'clock in the evening the jury retired to consider the verdict,
and they remained in their room until six in the morning. How they
It is recorded that numerous
spent the night is a matter of history.
bottles of whiskey were passed through the window into the jury
room. At first the jury could not agree to a verdict, But ultimately
those in favour of an acquittal were, by intimidation, it was suggested,
forced to concur in a finding against Orr. When the sentence of death
was passed the judge wept freely, the people sobbed, but Orr stood
unmoved. At the close of Judge Yelverton 's sentence he was taken
back to gaol, there to await the final scene. Saturday morning, the
In the houses blinds were
i4th of October, dawned clear and bright.
drawn, shops closed everywhere signs of sorrow and mourning were
visible.
At about 3 o'clock William Orr emerged from his prison cell
a carriage was provided to drive to the place of execution. He expressed
the wish to have the company of the Rev. Wm. Staveley, Knockbracken, Co. Down, and the Rev. Adam Hill, Ballynure, upon his
journey to the scaffold, and these gentlemen were permitted to sit with
him in the carriage. The High Sheriff on horseback preceded the
carriage, and the Sub-sheriff also on horseback followed it. The whole
proceeded in solemn, slow procession from the gaol to the place of
When
execution, about three-quarters of a mile from Carrickfergus.
and after
the gallows was reached, Orr shook hands with his friends
"
I am no traitor
the rope had been put about his neck, he exclaimed
I die in the true faith of a PresbyI am persecuted for my country
" After the
terian
execution, the body was taken from the gallows
to a house called "Wilson's slatehouse," after a man of that name
who was its occupier, and every means adopted for the restoration of
:
97
death.
From the respectability of this
man, the acknowledged severity of the act under which he was
found guilty, and the weighty influence of the Union System
at this period, great interest was used to avert the sentence;
but although a respite was granted, it was carried into execution
on the 1 4th October. A large military force attended, but the
number of the people was considerably less than is usual on like
At the place of execution he distributed a printed
occasions.
declaration, wherein he declared his innocence; and concluded
"
"
"
by hoping that his virtuous countrymen would bear him in
their kind remembrance, and continue true and faithful to each
"
been to all of them."
other," as he had
The
1798.
spring of this year was marked by alarms
and agitations; persons being almost daily brought in prisoners
from the country, charged with seditious or treasonable practices.
Those persons were lodged in the gaol, or in military guardhouses, and were generally liberated, on giving bail to appear
when called upon, and taking the oath of allegiance.
Early in May, 14 persons of this town and neighbourhood
were taken prisoners, and without any specific charge, put on
A few days
board a prison-ship, then lying in Garmoyle.
and received sentence of
guard was stationed in the market-house; the Carrickfergus yeomen cavalry were placed on permanent duty ; the
inhabitants were ordered to put up their names on their doors,
to be called over as often as the military might deem it proper ;
after, a
the arrival of strangers to be immediately added, and announced

to the mayor or commanding officer ; and none to be out of their
houses from nine o'clock in the evening
till
five in
the morning.
including bleeding, but without avail, as the neck was broken.

is on the land side of the road opposite the Gallows Green,
and is still standing. The body was then placed on a cart bedded with
straw, and a start made for Ballynure. The corpse was brought by the
road up the mountain-side, past Duncrue, over Briantang brae, and
across the commons of Carrickfergus, through Straid to Ballynure
Meeting-house, where the body was dressed and coffined, and the wake
held.
On Sunday his remains were buried in the old churchyard of
craft he
Templepatrick by his Masonic brethren, of which honourable
was a member. The government, in consideration of the death of her
Orr's
with
on his widow. Mourning rings,
settled an
life,
The house
husband,
annuity
hair set in them, and the words "Remember Orr," were constantly
Even the black crape cap which was drawn over his face on
worn.
the scaffold was cut into pieces and distributed to his friends. Memorial
cards were printed secretly it was death to be found with one of them
in 'q8.
Not in Ireland alone was Orr mourned, but in the capital of
of Fox's birthday, two
England. At a public" dinner given in honour
The memory of Orr basely murdered" and
of the toasts were
"
the Irish Cabinet soon take the place of \\ilham Orr. ]
May
98
All persons were strictly commanded to surrender every kind

fire arms, pikes, swords, or ammunition, under pain of
Soon after, considerable quantities of arms
execution.
of
military
were brought in here from the country, having been surrendered

to persons appointed to receive them.
Early this morning, a number of

Thursday, June 7th.
blacksmiths were brought in prisoners, suspected of making
Same morning, about nine o'clock, the drums of the
pikes.
Fencible regiment, quartered here, beat to arms, an express
1
The
having arrived that the country was in open rebellion.
and
about
town
were immediately shut,
fifty
shops in the
suspected persons were arrested and confined in the castle;
guards were placed on the different roads leading from the town,
and no persons were suffered to depart without a written pass-
Tay
by the mayor, or commanding officer. On the same

about
70 inhabitants offered their services to co-operate
day,
with the military ; they were accepted, and were commanded by
gentlemen of the town and neighbourhood. Their only uniform
port, signed
was a black cockade worn on the hat.

About three o'clock, noon, a strong detachment of the army,
with two pieces of cannon, marched for Ballyclare, where the
insurgents were said to be assembled.
They returned on the
following day without seeing the enemy, bringing with them
several prisoners, and having burned or destroyed some houses
in
Ballyclare,
insurgents,
of
those
who had been
said
to
have
been
leaders
of the
defeated in the battle which took
Very few persons from Carrickfergus were in arms on the 7th, either at Antrim or Dunagorehill; but on the night of the 7th, a number of persons under
arms assembled on the Commons, who were to have proceeded
place at Antrim, on the 7th.
that night to the grand rendezvous on Dunagore-hill.
mean time two

disastrous
stragglers arrived,
news from Antrim
suspended, and
all
who had been
on which
In the
there, with the
their deliberations
were
returned to their homes.
Early on Sunday, about 300 of the military, with two

pieces of cannon, set out for Ballyclare: where they burned a
number of houses, and also burned and destroyed some others
in Doagh and Ballyeaston ; and in several instances those
unconnected with the rebellion were the chief
1
sufferers.
The
Three days before, a woman had given information that such an

event would take place on the above day, but she was not credited.
99
country at this time, about the above places, appeared almost
deserted
scarcely a man was seen, and very few women or
:
In the evening the military returned, many of them

loaded with plunder, taken from the houses that had been
burned or demolished. On this and the following day, some
children.
guns and pikes were brought in and surrendered.

Tuesday. Early this morning, 200 of the Tay Fencibles
marched for Belfast, to replace a part of the troops of that
garrison, who set off about 10 o'clock, same morning, to attack
the insurgents in the county of Down, who were said to be
This evening, the noise of an
encamped near Saintfield.
heard
was
here, between the army and the
engagement
distinctly
At the same time, the Lancashire
rebels near Ballynahinch.
Fencible dragoons landed at our quay; and the packet-boat
from Portpatrick arrived with the mails, the insurgents having
taken possession of Donaghadee and Bangor.
The mails
continued to be landed here till the following October.
On Wednesday morning, the dragoons who had disembarked, marched for Belfast; on Thursday the Durham
Fencible dragoons landed;
and early on the i8th, the
Sutherland Highlanders, a Fencible regiment 1,100 strong, also
arrived from Scotland 1 both regiments immediately proceeded
to Belfast.
A few days after, the Royal Scots also landed at
:
our quay, and set forward on the same destination. The country
people who came into town about this time, commonly wore a
piece of red riband in their hats, as a badge of loyalty.
The
inhabitants who had been made prisoners on the first

were mostly liberated before the i8th June, and the
guards were taken off the roads soon after; but many persons
still remained in confinement from the adjacent country, and
prisoners were daily brought in on various charges connected
alarm,
with the rebellion.
About the beginning of July, a court-martial assembled in

county of Antrim court-house, for the trial of persons
charged with rebellion. By their sentence, four persons received
None of
dreadful flagellation, and one lad was executed.
nor was a
these persons were inhabitants of Carrickfergus
the
house burned or destroyed in the county of the town, during

the rebellion.
On
1
the 28th August, intelligence
was received of the French
In this regiment were 104 persons of the
name
of
John Mackay.
IOO
having landed at Killala; and the troops in this garrison were
ordered to be ready at a moment's warning.
September pth,
the Essex Fencible dragoons landed here, and on the i3th, the
Breadalbane Highland Fencibles ; both, immediately on landing,
marched for Belfast.
The action between the English and French

Tory Isle, was heard distinctly in this town; and on
the 2ist same month, L' Ambuscade and La Coquille, two French
October i2th.
fleets, off
prizes taken in the action, arrived in this bay, under convoy of

his Majesty's ship Magnanime.
1799.
inhabitants
On
the 25th February, a numerous meeting of the

held in the town-hall, who entered into
was
resolutions against a legislative union with Great Britain; and

at the same time the thanks of the meeting were returned to
Ez. D. Wilson, Esq., M.P., for opposing that measure in

parliament. March nth this year, a meeting of the magistrates
of the counties of Antrim and Carrickfergus, was held in this
who unanimously resolved (from the disturbed state of the

former county), to declare both out of the peace.
On the
following day an order was issued by General Nugent, commanding the northern district, for all persons to put up the
names of the inmates of their houses on some conspicuous place,
and that no persons should be out of their doors, one hour after
and that all arms should be
sunset, nor before sunrise;
immediately delivered up, under pain of military execution.
This year was remarkably cold and wet, and the
frost and snow setting in earlier than usual, the crops were
In the following
very defective both in quantity and quality.
spring, markets advanced rapidly ; in May, oatmeal sold at
town,
per peck, and the potatoes at 2s. 8d. per bushel ; and in
June, the former, of a very bad quality, sold at from 75. 4d.
to 8s. per peck, and the latter at 35. 6d. per bushel; all other
55. 8d.
provisions were high in proportion.
The
succeeding year was almost equally disastrous to the

from an excessive dry summer; the potato crop was
particularly defective, as, by reason of the drought, few came
In November,
to perfection, save in the middle of the ridges.
oatmeal sold at 55. 8d. per peck, and potatoes at 25. 8jd. per
bushel; and in the course of the winter, provisions nearly
resumed their former enormous prices.
Early in the spring,
Indian
of
corn
and
meal,
large quantities
rye flour, were
crops,
imported by the government, or on a bounty
which served
IOI
much
to allay this famine.
During these
years, subscriptions
were entered into by the landholders, gentlemen, and ladies of

Carrickfergus, for the support of their poor. The subscriptions,
in 1800, from January till August, amounted to
.403 35. 5d.
About November, 1801, oatmeal sold at is. lod. per peck, and
potatoes at 8d. per bushel.*
In April, potatoes sold at three shillings per bushel,
1812.
and in July, oatmeal advanced to 6s. lod. per peck.
1813, December 25th.
which continued hoary
On
all the
evening a frost commenced,

following day, and by the 3oth
this
had become very hard. In January it increased, and on the

4th of that month, the ground was covered with snow, of which,
on the nights of the 8th and pth, there fell a considerable
it
quantity.
[*
At
On
the
the loth, nth, and i2th,

spring
assizes
at
it
snowed almost without
Carrickfergus,
March,
1808,
Mary
was put forward on the charge of witchcraft.

fellest fortune-teller e'er was seen,
A witch that, for sma' price,
Cou'd cast her cantrips, and gi'e them advice."
Butters, Carrickfergus,
" The
A
Belfast News-letter of Friday, the 2ist August, 1807, notes:
melancholy event took place on Tuesday night in the house of Alexander
Montgomery, tailor, at Carnmoney Meeting House. Montgomery, it
appears, had a cow which continued to give milk as usual, but of late
no butter could be produced from the milk. An opinion, which had
been too long entertained by many people in the country, was
The
unfortunately instilled into the mind of Montgomery's wife, that

whenever such circumstances occurred, it was occasioned by the cow
In this opinion she was fortified by the
having been bewitched.
concurring testimony of every old woman in the parish, each of whom

contributed her story of what she had seen and known in former times.
At length the family were informed of a woman named Mary Butters,
who resided at Carrickfergus. They accordingly went to her, and
brought her to their house, for the purpose of curing the cow. It is
not known what stratagems she employed to work her pretended
enchantment, but the house had a strong sulphureous smell, and on the
fire was a large pot in which were some milk, needles, pins, and
crooked nails.
Montgomery's wife, son, and an old woman named
Margaret Lee were suffocated, but Mary Butters, the sorceress, being
thrown out on a dunghill, where she received some hearty kicks, .soon
after recovered, and was sent to Carrickfergus jail.
At the inquest
held on the igth August, at Carnmoney, on the bodies of Elizabeth
Montgomery, David Montgomery, and Margaret Lee, the jury stated
that they came by their death from suffocation, occasioned by a woman
named Mary Butters, in her making use of some noxious ingredients,
in the manner of a charm, to recover a cow, the property of Alexander
Montgomery. At the assizes, Mary Butters, the witch of Carnmoney,
was discharged by proclamation.
At the spring assizes at Carrickfergus, March, 1810, Hugh

Kennedy, Bernard Kane, William M'CIurkan, Bryan Harrigan, and
James Brown, were indicted for attempting to rob the house of the
Rev. John Thompson, Carnmoney, and for assault on Mr. M'Clelland.
The prisoners were all acquitted, but ordered to find bail. Belfast
Magazine.}
IO2
from which time the roads were choked up, the

many places being upwards of twenty feet deep. The
frost continuing, the cold was at times very intense; it was
remarked that the greatest cold was always about sunrise. On
intermission
snow
in
the morning of the i3th, the thermometer stood at 14, which

was the greatest cold observed. On the 25th and 26th there
were showers of snow,
some snow
fell
there
and rain, and on the 2pth and 3oth,

was also a very severe frost.
sleet,
February ist and 2d, there were frequent showers of snow,

and a slight thaw; and on the 4th, the roads having been
beaten by horses and foot passengers, and cleared by men in
various places, the stage coaches from Larne to Belfast, that
had been stopped from the loth January, began to run. Some
carts also passed from hence to Belfast same day ; this journey,
On the 8th and pth,
however, was one of extreme difficulty.
the thaw continued, with showers of snow and hail, and from
were frequent heavy falls of
yet some of the snow that fell in
the beginning of the storm, remained in low grounds till the end
of March.
Loughmourne was entirely frozen over for several
weeks, during this frost; and people passed on foot between
the counties of Down and Antrim, upwards of half a mile below
the latter
rain,
till
the
i4th,
there
and a gradual thaw;
the quay of Belfast.

Lough-Neagh was so completely frozen
over, that multitudes of people walked, and some rode, on the
ice,
to Ram's-Island.
1814.
September nth, between 8 and 9 o'clock at night,
a luminous bow, shaped exactly like a rainbow, appeared in
the horizon.
It was of a whitish colour, extended nearly north
and south, and continued visible about an hour.
The night
was calm and bright, particularly in the north there was no
:
moon
light.
1816.
September 24th, this night, between the hours of
8 and 9 o'clock, a bow appeared in the air, stretching east to
west.
It exactly resembled that noticed above, and continued,
with some variation in brightness, till about ten o'clock; its
end veering a little more eastward than when first

its west end was longest visible.
The night was
calm and clear; northward it seemed as if day was breaking.
Both summer and autumn of this year were cold and wet
eastern
observed
hence the crops were retarded in ripening, far beyond their

usual season.
On the i6th September, the reaping of corn
commenced here, but very little was cut before the middle of
November many had not even begun

In December, much grain still remained in the
Markets
fields, and some was even to be seen out in January.
of course advanced. On the i5th May, 1817, oatmeal sold at
55. 5d., and wheatmeal at 45. 2d. per peck; both were bad in
October, and on the ist
their harvest.
quality.
rye flour
The
ports being
now
open, a considerable quantity of
was imported into Belfast from America, which was
On the nth June, oatmeal sold at 6s. ^d. per

The
peck, and all other provisions were high in proportion.
calamity occasioned by this dearth, was much heightened by
many tradesmen and labourers being destitute of employment,
of much service.
and a typhus fever

reduced
setting in early in the spring of 1817,

of the working classes to a state of the greatest
In September and October the fever increased to an
many
misery.
alarming degree, and a meeting of the most respectable inhabitants of Carrickfergus was held, who entered into a subscription
for the relief of the poor, and to establish a fever hospital, which
was opened on the 4th November, during which, and the two
following months, the fever raged with the greatest violence.
From February, 1818, the fever gradually declined, and on the
1
The distributions to the poor
3d June the hospital was closed.
same time; the committee appointed for their

having expended ^815 73. 5jd. Of this sum, ^120 was
obtained from the government ; the Assembly of this corporation
gave ^164 out of their funds; the Marquis of Donegall gave
;ioo; and Sir Arthur Chichester, representative in parliament
also ceased about
relief
for this place, ^50.

1818.
The summer of this year was remarkably warm:
the following was the range of the thermometer in the shade,
on the days annexed. May 25th, 70; June

nth, 78! ; 1 2th, 83, about three o'clock,
greatest heat observed for
The
harvest this year
many
72;
6th,
P.M.,
pth,
73;
being the
years; July i6th, 76.
was remarkably
early
many farmers
had done reaping on the 8th September, and on

the 1 4th December the weather was so very mild, that gooseberries were shaped in most gardens near the town.
in this parish
in the Middle
of patients admitted was 114, 108 of whom
were dismissed cured, the other 6 died there the greatest number of
It was computed that
patients in the hospital at one time was 26.
about 600 persons had the fever in this parish, 61 of whom died
between March, 1817, and June, 1818 and several fell victims to it
soon afterwards, some in 1819.
'This hospital was about one mile from the town,
Division.
The
total
number
104
February i9th, from 8 till 10 o'clock on this night,

1819a bow was seen in the horizon, extending north-east by southwest; it exactly resembled those already noticed, and appeared
The night was calm
brightest about half-past nine o'clock.
and a bright Aurora Borealis, northward.
September i5th,
same year, a bow similar to the above, appeared in the air
between 8 and 9 o'clock at night.
It stretched north-east by
south-west, and was neither so large nor so bright as any of
the ones already noticed; the south-west end appeared forked.
On the following night a similar bow appeared, at the same
hour; on the 22nd of this month, another bow was seen at
the same hour and place as the two former; and the like
The three last were
appearance was also observed on 24th.
a
fainter
than
that
seen on the i5th.
each
degree
gradually
houses
1820.
The
of
the
town
and quarters were
April,
numbered, and a wall separating the Governor's walk from the
street removed, and the walk and land thrown into one street.
In 1821 a large elm that grew in this walk was blown down.
This was the last of a double row that had been cut down the
season before.
1821.
this night
April 1 7th, a beautiful lunar rainbow was observed

It seemed to stretch nearly east
about 12 o'clock.
and west; near
it the clouds were remarkably black, but at a

From the 24th
distance clear; the moon also was shining.
May till the 9th July, only two slight showers fell in this
on the 5th June and 6th July; and about the

the latter month, hoar frost was to be seen every
of
beginning
morning on the mountains.
1822.
On the ist November, the following were the
parish,
viz.,
Oatmeal from is. 6d. to

prices of provisions in this town.
is. 8d. per peck, potatoes from 5d. to 6d. per bushel, beef from
ijd. to 3d. per Ib. and fresh butter rod. per Ib. of 18 oz.
The old gallows, which were situated at
[August 29, 1819.
Gallows Green, Lower Woodburn, being no longer required, were sold
by public auction, and brought 5/10.
August, 1821. King George IV. visited Ireland. He was presented
with a most loyal address from the Corporation of Carrickfergus.
1822.
The splendid body of police, known as the Royal Irish
Constabulary, dates from this year, when an Act of Parliament
constituted the
force.
Three lodges of Orangemen walked in procession

July 12, 1823.
in Carrickfergus, being the first procession of that kind here.
A body of Orangemen proceeding to walk were
July 12, 1825.
drum
dispersed by the Mayor, who took a sword from the Tyler their
;
was
also broken.]
March 29th, on this night between the hours of

and
nine
o'clock, a luminous bow appeared in the air
eight
stretching east and west, and exactly resembling those already
described. The summer of the above year was
remarkably warm
and dry, very few showers having fallen from early in May till
the 8th of October.
On the roth of June the thermometer in
the shade stood at 82; on the i4th at 84, and on the 26th
at 85.
During summer the grass became so parched, on dry or
poor soils, that the cattle suffered much for want of food; and
in autumn many cows, particularly on mountain tracts, were
1826.
suddenly attacked by swellings in their throats, of which many

died.*
The wheat crop was remarkably abundant; but
potatoes, barley, and oats were far from an average produce
:
and thin, that it could not

be reaped in the usual manner, but was pulled up by the hand.
Flax except in boggy grounds was a complete failure; and hay
was so very deficient that in the following spring it sold from
the latter in
many places was so
short
By the loth of July, oats were reaped

of the county of Antrim; and harvest was
On the iQth July, the
generally over by the i2th of August.
English and Irish monies were assimilated at Carrickfergus,
and were for some time the cause of much complaint and
45.
6d. to 55. per cwt.
in several parishes
confusion, between buyer and

1827.
March and
seller.
April,
of
this
year,
were cold and
tempestuous, with frequent falls of snow on the 24th of April,

the snow, in many places, was from six to eight feet deep. May
:
was remarkably
1832.
On
fine.
the
zoth
August,
procession
of
the
Emancipation Bill was passed. On the I3th

received the Royal Assent, and thus became law.
By this Act
Catholics obtained the right of sitting in either the Lords or the
to hold
entitled
Commons, upon taking a certain oath and became
any civil, military, or corporate office, except the position of Regent,
[In 1829, the Catholic
April
it
Lord Chancellor, and Lord Lieutenant.]

William IV. was proclaimed King with great
[July 7, 1830.
pageantry. The Marquis of Donegall, Mayor John Campbell, WillowSuffolk, Sheriffs, with the Aldermen and
field, and John M'Cance,
to the
Burgesses, all on horseback and wearing cloaks, proceeded
Castle Gate, and there caused the Proclamation to be read by the
Town Clerk. After this the Mayor drew his sword of honour, each
gentleman in company drawing his sword. Until this time the Mayor
When all was over the
merely carried the Rod of Mayorality.
great guns at the Castle were fired.]
* It is not a little
remarkable, that after the dry and warm summer
of 1748, a similar fatal distemper prevailed amongst the cattle.
London Gentleman's Magazine,
;
io6
Guilds and other inhabitants took place, in
of
the passing of the Irish Reform Bill.
Each
consequence
Guild bore a flag, with a suitable motto, and several persons
wore ribands of orange and green. The parties walked through
Incorporated
the streets of the town, accompanied by a band of music, and

afterwards dispersed in the greatest harmony.
The Cholera Morbus made its appearance here in July.
In the same year 73 persons emigrated from the parish to

America.
In March and April, 1834, the army and military stores

were removed to Dublin and Charlemont, and the
storekeeper and armourer discharged.
1836, April 7th, a branch of the Northern Bank, Belfast,
in the castle
was opened
in this town.
1837, April 25th, the new market in North Street opened,

site of an old distillery.
on the
new
1838, August 2nd.

road, or entrance,
Workmen began
into the
to level
town from
and open a
by the
Belfast,
Walk or Place.
In levelling the ground, the
foundations of the castle of Patrick Savage were discovered,
and part of the ancient wet ditch by which the town was
Governor's
formerly encompassed, as seen in the plan of the town in 1550.

ancient urn was found, part of a human skeleton, and a
few old coins. The road was opened to the public at Christmas.
An
On
tide at night,
November there was an extraordinary high

which did much damage.
For some hours the
road
to
the 28th of
leading
Belfast,
near
the
seventh
milestone,
was
wall that had been erected the previous summer.

impassable.
to keep off the tide, was thrown down, and the road covered
with sand and seaweed.
[In June,
1833, Mr. Daniel O'Connell brought in a bill in
Parliament for the disfranchisement of the borough, which was read,
and ordered to be read a second time on July 3rd. This bill did not
nass.
December 31, same year. A dreadful storm is recorded coming

from the N.W., which did" considerable damage, blowing down chimneys
and the like. There was also a very high tide. In Belfast several streets
were flooded as far up as Skipper Street, and boats plied in Tomb
Records of Carrickfergus.]
Street, where the water was six feet deep.
and the
[With this Chapter the first part of the old edition ends,
the Belfast
following additional "annals are culled from the pages of
News-Letter, Northern Whig, and the Carrickfergus Advertiser. ED.]
CHAPTER
"Big Wind" of 1839
THE
but there are
still
those
is
left,
IX.
now passing
scattered
who date many events of

on Sunday night, the
storm of wind commenced from
country,
About eleven
violent
as
it
o'clock
increased,
changed to
direct
S.W.
into tradition,
up and down the
their lives therefrom.
6th January, 1839, a

the W.N.W., which,
It
appeared
at
its
greatest height from three to six o'clock on the morning of the

seventh, and at daylight the clouds presented a singular, brazen,
and terrific appearance. It suddenly calmed about two o'clock
snow shower. In the town several houses

were unroofed, and many damaged; and in the country corn
and hay stacks were thrown down and trees broken or torn up
by the roots. In Belfast Lough eight vessels were wrecked or
in the evening, after a
sunk, in Larne Lough five. The oldest person living had never
witnessed a storm so awfully furious.
It was general throughout the counties of Down and Antrim, and the greater portion
of the Kingdom.
In 1841-2", Carrickfergus was deprived of
with
all
its
mediaeval
its
old Corpora-
the
Municipal
grandeur, by
Corporation Act passed in 1840, whereby the body politic of
the borough, Mayor, Sheriffs, Burgesses, and Commonality,
tion,
was
dissolved, and the powers and duties vested in the Municipal

Commissioners elected under the provisions of that Act. They
also had control of the Corporate property.
In April two women named Mary Moody and
1841.
Elizabeth M'llveen were imprisoned in Carrickfergus, under
sentence of death for murder. Owing to the intercession of the
Very Rev. Dean Chaine, who went to Dublin for that purpose,
Lord Lieutenant, in a letter dated 22nd April, 1841,

commuted their respective sentences to transportation for life.*
Wednesday. December ist. A meeting was held in the
Court House, Carrickfergus, to prepare an address to Queen
the
Victoria, congratulating her majesty
Belfast News-Letter
on the birth of a Prince.
io8
Conway R. Dobbs, Esq., High Sheriff, proceeded to London

and presented the address.
At the County of Antrim Assizes 150
1842, March 8th.
persons were placed in the dock for unlawfully walking in an
Orange procession on the previous i2th of July. For want of
accommodation
in
the
jail,
the prisoners were find
^5, according to their circumstances.*

The same year was memorable in
the annals
-io and
of
Irish
Presbyterianism. On the loth of June, two centuries previously,

the first Presbyterian ecclesiastical court was formed, and in this
bicentenary year, Dr. Cooke,t the Moderator of the General

Assembly, preached a commemoration sermon from the text
which formed the subject of the discourse at the meeting of the
"
first Presbytery, Psalm li. 18,
Do good in thy pleasure unto
build
thou
the
walls
of
This was also the
Zion,
Jerusalem."
text from which it was suggested that each minister should
in his own pulpit on the Sabbath succeeding the
As a memorial of the goodness of
Bicentenary Anniversary.
God to the Church during those two centuries, a Bicentenary
preach
Fund was
established, and ^14,000 was contributed, which

for
the cause of Presbyterianism in the South
expended
West of Ireland.
was
and
1843, 2 5 tn November, the first Municipal Commissioners^

of Carrickfergus were elected, consisting of eighteen members.
Mr. William Burleigh was chosen chairman. The meetings of
[* Belfast
News-Letter.
Wm.
Cooke
was accompanied by
M'Comb, Esq., the
poet-laureate of the Presbyterian Church, and the compiler of M'Comb 's
Presbyterian Almanac, the first issue of which appeared in 1840.
After Mr. M'Comb's death in 1873, the Almanac was continued by Mr.
James Cleeland, Arthur Street, until 1889, when the last appeared. On
the above occasion Mr. M'Comb was stirred up to compose one of the
happiest of his metrical productions
+ Dr.
"
Two
hundred years ago, there came from Scotland's storied land,

To Carrick's old and fortress town, a Presbyterian band;
They planted on the castle wall the banner of the blue,
And worshipped God in simple form as Presbyterians do."
J The office-bearers of the first board of Municipal Commissioners
were Peter Kirk, John Legg, James Barnett, John Coats, Paul Logan,
John M'Gowan, Samuel Davis Stewart, William Walker, William
Burleigh, Daniel Blair, Richard Battersby, James Cowan, Alexander
Johns, William Kirk Martin, Stephen Richard Rice, Richard Thompson,
James Wilson, Russel Ker Bowman Chairman, William Burleigh
Town Clerk and Solicitor, David Legg Treasurer, Henry Adair
Ballast Master, Alexander
Harbour Master, James Stannus, jun.
:
Jones.]
109
these Commissioners were held quarterly.
For 53 years these
Commissioners had charge of the Corporate property.
After the conclusion of the Assizes,
1845, July 29th.
Justices
Perrin
and
Ball,
having
arrived
in
Belfast
from
new Penitentiary, Crumlin Road,

some
members
of the Grand Jury.
accompanied by
They
Carrickfergus,
visited
the
every portion of the spacious buildings and the

arrangements made for the carrying out the separate system
of confinement, while the health and moral and physical
After a
training of the prisoners were properly attended to.
minute survey their lordships expressed their perfect satisfaction
inspected
with the entire arrangements.
The
prisoners,
Penitentiary was now ready for the reception of

and those now confined in the House of Correction,
number of those convicted at the last sessions of

Ballymoney and Ballymena, were to be transferred thither
including a
immediately.*
The same year the potato crop failed. The summer gave
promise of an abundant harvest; but at night a dense vapour
rested upon the earth, and unusual effluvia, the smell of
decaying vegetable matter, made many a one to hush his mirth.
Strangely and mysteriously
food of the people was gone.
this
To
blight came, until the staple
meet
this evil, the
surrounding
gentry and persons of independence applied themselves, soup

kitchens were established, and everything that could be done was
done to relieve the suffering and starving men, women and
children.
America sent over supplies; and the Indian meal,
hitherto unknown, was landed in large cargoes on our shores.
This food, with the employment given to the farmers with their
and to the labouring classes, in making the railway,

placed them in a position to support themselves.
These sad events hastened the passing of a measure for
This Bill, which was
abolishing the duties on foreign grain.
horses,
the
passed in June, 1846, practically gave untaxed bread to
nation.
November
6th,
was
same
year, the
near
turned,
Carrickfergus
Viscount Massereene and Ferrard.
first
sod of the railway to
Whitehouse,
by
the
tenth
in Carrickfergus Gaol were not removed to Belfast

that
when, under the new Act, 84 were removed from
establishment on the ist September, 35 of whom were convicts.
[*The prisoners
till
18:50,
Belfast News-Letter.]
no
On Sunday Judge Crampton attended
1846, March i5th.
Sermon by the Very
divine service in St. Nicholas's Church.
Rev. the
High
Dean of Connor.
The Judge was
in his robes, the
Sheriff with all his servants in full livery.
Many
of the
grand jury and leading members of the bar were present.

The Belfast and Northern Counties
1848, April nth.
Railway was opened to Carrickfergus, Randalstown, and
Ballymena, and on the ist September the mails were despatched
by
rail.
Same year, Tuesday, May 2nd, a large and influential

meeting was held in the Courthouse of County Antrim for the
purpose, according to requisition, of expressing loyalty to the
Throne, a determination to uphold the Legislative Union, and
abhorrence of the detestable efforts of the Confederate leaders
to create
an
insurrection.
The same day

address
to
the
the Carrickfergus Presbytery presented an

Lieutenant, the Earl of Clarendon,
Lord
declaring their loyalty and attachment to the institutions of the

country.
1849, Saturday, August nth, Queen Victoria arrived in the

Lough in the Yacht Osborne, on her first (and last) visit to
Belfast ; and left on Sunday morning.
She was saluted on
her departure by the Carrickfergus Castle battery.
On Monday, in the Grand Jury Room, a number of the
most respectable inhabitants sat down to dinner to commemorate

her Majesty's visit to Ireland.
S. R. Rice, Esq., High Sheriff,
took the chair.
1851,
January
lyth.
Captain
Robert
M'Ferran,*
* On that
day Captain M'Ferran was a passenger in a train from
Belfast to Carrickfergus.
The day was stormy, with snow showers,
and while the engine was detached from the carriages and shunting at
what was then known as Carrick Junction, the carriages, which
contained many passengers, owing to the force and direction of the
On the incline between Carrick Junction and
wind, got into motion.
Carrickfergus the speed increased rapidly, and matters were assuming
a most dangerous aspect.
Captain M'Ferran at once grasped the
situation, and, assisted by some fellow passengers, he, at great personal
risk, mounted to the top of the carriage in which he was a passenger
and made his way along the tops of the other carriages to the brakevan. By careful manipulation he so guided the runaway carriages into
the station that the majority of the passengers were unaware of the
risk they had run, and that they had performed part of the journey
To signalise their
from Belfast without the aid of a locomotive.
appreciation of this gallant deed, the directors granted him a free pass
on the line for life in the form of a massive silver medal, which bore
" Presented to Mr. Robert M'Ferran of
the following inscription
:
Ill
native of
Carrickfergus, obtained widespread celebrity for a

deed
whereby he saved a train full of passengers from
gallant
destruction on the Northern Counties Railway.
The then Marquis of Downshire,
1852, August 4th.
anxious to develop the mineral resources of the county, made
trial
borings in search of coal near Carrickfergus.
to the north-west of the town, rock salt, not coal,

about 600 feet from the surface.
At Duncrue,
was struck at
December
8th.
It is stated that below the stratum of salt,
of
100
feet
thick, at Duncrue, the borers came on a
upwards
stratum of coal.*
The
Association which visited Carrickfergus in

to consider the search for coal at Duncrue a
seemed
September
British
chimerical pursuit.
1853, January 3ist.

meeting was held in the Town
Hall, in pursuance of an order from his Excellency the Lord
Lieutenant, issued in compliance with a memorial from certain
householders within the borough of Carrickfergus, praying that

the provisions of the Act I., George IV., should be adopted and
This was an Act to light,

carried into effect in the borough.
watch, and pave streets, and cleanse towns corporate, and
market towns in Ireland.*

1854, March i5th. An outbreak of cholera occurred which
increased in extent and virulence.
From Thursday up
to Monday night there were upwards of twenty deaths in
Carrickfergus.
year the Town Improvements Act was passed

The Belfast Mining Company were
1855, January i2th.
with
their
succeeding
operations at Duncrue Salt Mines. It was
proposed to construct a tramway from the mouth of the shaft
Same
to Belfast, for conveyance of the salt previous to shipment, the

depth of water at Carrickfergus not being sufficient to enable
ships of large burden to load there.*

Same year, Carrickfergus Castle was
made the headquarters

of the Antrim Artillery (Militia) in the North of Ireland. This
force mustered upwards of 600 men, and the Castle not being
the
adapted to accommodate more than seventy or eighty of
force, the
men were
billeted
on the inhabitants.
conduct
by the Directors to mark their sense of his intrepid
on the
stopping a train between the Junction and Carrickfergus,
this
death
After Captain M'Ferran's
privilege
i;th January, 1851.
was extended to his widow."
*
Belfast,
in
April 1 3th, the Government took over the Courthouse, which

accommodated 250 men, and thus relieved the innkeepers of
The hospital connected

the nuisance of the billeting system.
with the old County Antrim Jail was also chosen, and fitted up
as an hospital for the regiment.
On
the i4th June (1855) the foundation stone of
Joymount
September 2ist, 1856, it was

Presbyterian Church was laid.
opened for public worship by the Rev. Henry Cooke, D.D.,
LL.D. Previous to the building of the church the congregation
worshipped in the County Antrim Courthouse.
September lyth, the town was first lighted by gas. On the
front of the Market House (now Petty Sessions Court) three
"
V " and
jets of lights, a crown in the centre, with the letters
"
"
R at the sides were erected. The large square opposite was
completely filled with persons, who, through the kindness of the
directors of the Gas Company, were plentifully supplied with
ale.
At half-past six a company of fifty gentlemen sat down to
supper in the Town Hall.
In 1856, the Municipal Commissioners obtained, in the
Encumbered Estates Court, a conditional order for the sale of
head rents payable out of premises in the town and county of

Carrickfergus, and of commonable lands, consisting of five
small plots of ground along the road leading from Carrickfergus
to Belfast, and of the Great Commons. This order was opposed
by the freemen, and the case carried by appeal
to the
House of
Lords, which, in 1866,* decided against the freemen.

May 29th (1856) was the day appointed for the celebration
of peace at the Crimea.
The Royal Antrim
Artillery, according
to orders received, fired the great guns of the Castle.
1857, Monday, i6th March, between six and seven o'clock

morning, Mr. W. M'Mechan, one of the parliamentary
in the
candidates,
addressed the electors of Carrickfergus
off
King
The town at this time was in a state of bankruptcy through

freemen as
litigation between the Municipal Commissioners and the
to the ownership of the corporate property, caused by an attempt to
sell
the lands of the Great
Commons.
An
appeal against the decree
was allowed on condition that ^"400 bail or cash be lodged in court.

The matter was delayed until the Ballot Act came into force, and
the result was that a board was elected, nominated by Mr. Dalway,
who had always taken the part of the freemen, and the Commons
This litigation, it is
the appeal being dismissed without cost.
stated, cost the community over ^"30,000.
part of these lands was
sold to the House of Downshire, and the remainder let, thus adding to
600 a year at
the income of the town an increased rental of some
that time, though somewhat less after the reductions in the land court.
let,
He urged on his hearers the great necessity of

having a harbour and pier well mounted with guns to prevent
the Americans from making a sudden rush upon them.
It was
William's stone.
remarked that
this gentleman seemed fully alive to the old

"that
the
adage,
early bird gets the worm"; but, though he
was early at business, he was altogether too late in the field,
which was previously occupied by Mr. Gary Dobbs.

1859, February 24th, the High Sheriff, M. R. Dalway,
Esq., in compliance with a requisition signed by nearly 60 of
the clergy and gentry, called a meeting in the Courthouse, " for
the purpose of considering the means at present available by
the Irish people for acquiring an education intermediate
between the National Schools and Queen's Colleges, and for
taking such measures in reference to the matter as may seem
best."
April 30, on Saturday, at one o'clock, Marriott R. Dalway,

High Sheriff, arrived at the station, accompanied by his
Esq.,
accomplished bride, where he was met by his numerous tenantry,

who unyoked the horses from the carriage, and drew it through
the town to Ballyhill, amidst the rejoicings of the people. An
additional
number of the tenantry and
others of the surrounding
neighbourhood were assembled to give a hearty welcome to the

newly-married couple.
year a great religious revival took place. The
On
held here was in the Methodist chapel.
ipth June, the Rev. Mr. Murdock, Methodist
The same
first
meeting
Sunday, the
by the Rev. George Alley, Larne, conducted

morning which lasted three hours, in the afternoon
two hours, and in the evening three hours nine hours in all.
Revival meetings were held during the summer in the Rev.
Mr. White's, North Street, and the Rev. Mr. Warwick's,
minister, assisted
services in the
Joy mount.
In September, the number attending Mr. Warwick's revival
class
was
1860,
Thomas
1 1 6.
At the spring
assizes,
Battersby, Esq., J.P.,
March
i3th, the
High
Sheriff.
Oakfield, had the pleasing duty
of presenting to the Lord Chief Justice Monahan a blank

of white gloves,
calendar, with its usual accompaniment, a pair
there not being a single
with
lace,
embroidered
gold
elegantly
prisoner for trial at the assizes.
built of best
ship of 200 tons burden,
1861, July 1 3th.
H4
Irish oak, was launched from Mr. Robin Johnston's shipyard in
"
Dorothea Wright."
Carrickfergus, and named the
1862, October ist. The railway line from Carrickfergus to

Larne was opened, and the railway companies interested in the
traffic between the ports of Larne and Stranraer commenced to
run a small sieamer, the Briton, which was withdrawn early in
1864-*
A company f was formed to construct a tramway

1863.
from the Harbour down Castle Street, High Street, and along
C. A. W. Stewart, Esq.,
the shore to the Scotch Quarter quay.
was appointed chairman. The projects of this company fell
through.
1865, September 2ist.
Bay.
The
racing
commenced
The
at
first
one
regatta
o'clock,
came
off in the
under the direction
and supervision of Marriott R. Dalway, Esq., J.P., Commodore.

Same year an outbreak of Fenianism occurred in Ulster.
"
Fenianism represents all that could be
It has been stated that
produced in the way of insurrection in 1865, and is as far below
the movement of 1848 as that was below the rising of 1798.
In October a
There have been many seizures of firearms.
held
after
the
Sessions
for
the purpose
was
Court,
meeting
Petty
of considering the propriety of making some representation to
the Government as to the insufficient way in which the Castle
was protected, and to urge upon them the necessity of sending
some additional soldiers to take charge of it.
A seizure of firearms and pikes, in
1866, February 3rd.
casks and cases, took place after the Fleetwood boat was berthed
in Belfast.
On the 24th of the same month the Habeas Corpus
Act was suspended in Ireland.
* In
August, same year (1864), a scheme was mooted for the
re-establishment of this service, but it was not until the year 1871 that
the negotiations for the re-opening of this route were brought to a
In July, 1872, the first vessel the Princess
successful termination.
Louise a paddle steamer, began the service, followed at an interval of
three years by the Princess Beatrice, built by Harland and Wolff of
Belfast.
Early in 1875 these steamers commenced to carry letters for
the Post Office, and have continued this service to the present day in
a most satisfactory manner.
t The seal of the Company is now in the possession of
Esq., J.P., who has also the key of the West Gate.
J In 1864 the Carrickfergus Amateur
W.
Rowing Club was
and this was the first regatta held under

Club was not established until 1886.
its
auspices.
Carruth,
established,
Sailing
The
1867.
Reform
Bill * introduced
by the Government was
passed.
Same year the water interests of the town were sold to

the Belfast Water Commissioners.!
1868, Monday, April 27th. Great rejoicings took place in
all parts owing to the release of William
Johnston, Esq., M.P.,
from Downpatrick Jail; he having been
imprisoned three
months for having defied the New
Party Processions Act, by
heading the Orangemen in their demonstration at Bangor on the
1 2th
of July previously.
In the evening tar barrels and
bonfires were lighted, and on
every hill there was a splendid
display of fireworks.
November
2ist.
The
election of Marriott
Robert Dalway,
Esq., as a member of Parliament for the borough was celebrated

at Mounthill.
Tar barrels and bonfires were lighted on all the
surrounding
hills.
December
iSth.
All places of business in Carrickfergus
* This Bill conferred the

franchise in boroughs on the occupiers of
dwelling-houses rated for the relief of the poor, and on lodgers who
rented unfurnished rooms valued at
10 a year as a minimum.
In
counties ^5 yearly value of property and
12 of valuation gave a vote
to holders and occupiers.
tWhen the Belfast Water Act was going through Parliament it
was pointed out to the freemen the seriousness of the project to the
town of Carrickfergus. A public meeting of the freemen was held in the
Courthouse, with the late Mr. James Stannus as chairman, when the
whole scheme was discussed and resolutions were passed condemnatory
all
of the project.
Mr. Barry Martin Smyth, solicitor, and his brother,
were employed to draft a memorial to the House of Lords, praying the
House to reject the measure, as it would be ruinous to the interests of
This action stirred up the Board of Municipal
Carrickfergus.
Commissioners, and they also forwarded a memorial to the House of
Lords, opposing the memorial of the public meeting and praying that
the Bill should be passed, as it had been approved by the Commissioners.
The result was that, largely owing to the memorial of the Commissioners, the Bill passed the Lords against the freemen. "The reason of this
action of the Board was that many of its members were interested in
public works and saw a chance of reaping large remuneration for their
Interest
some of them, it is stated, received ten or twelve thousand
pounds through the transaction. It was also stated that, had the then
Board acted in a patriotic spirit instead of a personal and selfish one,
they could, by citing the Lyndon Grant, have prevented the measure
passing, and put an end for ever to the claims of the Belfast Water
Commissioners, and the terror of wholesale eviction now going on
would never have existed." "Municipal Corruptions," by Mr. James
;
Logan, in the Carrickfergus Advertiser.

[The Lyndon Grant. On the i5th of September, 1681, John Lyndon
received a lease for ever of 515 acres for the sum of ^31 8s. id., with
the condition that he was to supply and keep in order the Western
water for ever.]
Mills, and supply the town of Carrickfergus with
1x6
were closed during the interment of the
late
Rev. Dr. Cooke,
Belfast.
Robert Torrens, Esq., presented a

1869, January 23rd.
* in the Court House
against the return of Marriott
petition
Robert Dalway. Esq., as a member for the borough.
Same
year
for
Bill
the
Disestablishment
of
the
Episcopal Church passed, f
There was a grand display of fire1871, March 22nd.

works in honour of the marriage of the Princess Louise, and at
half-past seven o'clock a salute of four guns was fired from the
Rowing Club
1873,
Pier.
April
The
2th.
first
contested
election
Guardians for the district took place, and considerable

was taken in the proceedings.
for
interest
old people will remember the unfavourable season of

With the exception of the famine year, it was the most
Many
1872.
in
recollected
Ireland's
unsatisfactory
period
agricultural
history for the previous half century.
June and July were
unusually cold and ungenial, the growth of herbage was
prevented for lack of heat, and every variety of stock suffered

more or less by the backward state of the weather. In May,
1873, ten shillings the hundred-weight were paid for potatoes
for table use.
* The
petition opposed the return of Mr. Dalway on the ground of
Mr.
practices, namely, treating, bribery, and intimidation.
Justice O'Brien, in giving judgment, stated that Mr. Dahvay had been
and that
duly elected, and in accordance with the Act of Parliament,
"
he should report to the Speaker to the following effect
First, that
the sitting member, Marriott R. Dalway, Esq., whose return has been
complained of by the petition in this matter, was duly elected, and
returned to serve in Parliament for the borough of Carrickfergus, and
that no corrupt practices had been proved to have been committed by,
or with the consent or knowledge of, the successful candidate or with
any of his agents, at such election and he felt bound to make an
order that each party pay his own costs."
tin March, 1868, Mr. Gladstone moved, in his place in Parliament,
a series of resolutions to the effect that the Irish Protestant Episcopal
Establishment should cease, that the endowment of the Roman Catholic
College of Maynooth should be discontinued, and that the Regium
Donum should be withdrawn from the Presbyterian Church, full
compensation being made for the life interests of the existing
These resolutions were adopted by a large majority of
beneficiaries.
and a Bill known as the Suspensory Bill was
the Commons,
but though the proposal was readily
introduced to legalise them
adopted by the Lower House of Legislation, it was negatived by the
A dissolution of Parliament followed. Mr. Gladstone was
Lords.
sustained in the new house by an increased majority of supporters, and
in the end the Disestablishment Bill became the law of the land.
corrupt
Friday,
June
6th.
William
Johnston,
Esq.,
M.P.,
Ballykilbeg, delivered a lecture in Joymount Presbyterian

Church, after which he was presented with an address from
the Carrickfergus Orangemen, in acknowledgement of his able

and successful labours in the House of Commons in having the
Party Processions Act repealed.
December 23rd. A meeting of the Town Commissioners

was held to call attention to the suit pending in the Court of
Chancery, instituted by the Municipal Commissioners in the
year 1868, against the Belfast Water Commissioners and the
Marquis of Downshire, for a declaration that the said Water
Commissioners are bound to supply the inhabitants of the
town of Carrickfergus with water from and out of the river
Woodburn, and praying that they should be ordered to execute
the necessary works for that purpose.
The Conservative working men mani1874, March 5th.

fested their delight that the Protestant cause had been successful
at the election of M. R. Dalway, M.P., and that the ConservaGovernment had entered into office, by burning tar barrels.
There was a display of fireworks from the Scotch Quarter Quay.
A violent storm swept over the town
1875, January 2oth.
At eleven o'clock the wind rose high, and at
and district.
tive
The gable at the Superintwelve the storm was at its height.

* was blown in, and
tendent's house at the Shiels Institution
houses received more or less injury.
February 6th. A meeting was held in the Masonic Hall,
many
High
purpose of considering what further steps

of the
regarding the letting of the lands
Street, for the
should be taken
Great Commons, f
A meeting of the freemen,

February 2oth.
in the Old Mill at Woodheld
was
inhabitants
and
burgesses,
Saturday.
the
lawn, for the further consideration of the vexed question of
*Charies Shitls, a native of Killough, Co. Down, and a successful

merchant, was born in 1782, and died in 1861, leaving
There are twenty-four
:QO,OOO to found the "Shiels Institutes."
circumstances
houses, which are open to respectable persons in reduced
There are similar Institutes in Killough,
resident in County Antrim.
Dungannon, Armagh, and Dublin.
" That this
meeting condemns
tit was proposed and seconded
to themthe persistent efforts of a party to confiscate and appropriate
and that it
selves and friends that which is our common property,
to have a Royal Commiss
pledges itself to take the preliminary steps
brought down to enquire into same."
Liverpool
u8
Commons,* which was
hands of Mr. Dalway.
1876, July iyth. A Canadian deputation from the Grand
Orange Lodge of America paid a visit to this town. They
came to take part in the Orange Conference to be held in
Derry, and to visit the various localities intimately associated
with the career of William the Third, Prince of Orange.
Her Majesty's Steam
1877, Tuesday, September 25th.
Yacht Halok arrived in the bay, having on board Rear-Admiral
Augustus Philimore, R.N., who was on a special tour of
distribution of the lands of the Great
left in the
inspection to the different coastguard stations in Ireland.

The foundation stone of Woodburn
1878, July 1 2th.
Orange Hall was laid by Samuel Graeme Fenton, Esq., J.P.

1879, January zoth. A meeting was held by the Harbour
Commissioners to consider the question of expending ^12,000
on extending and otherwise improving the harbour.
A petition! was lodged in the Court
1880, May 8th.
* About the
beginning of March these lands were let to
and fences put up, which were afterwards pulled down by some
who were opposed to the letting of the Commons lands.
A written placard was posted
Saturday, March 2oth.
Market Gate, calling on the Commons party to assemble on
at the Commons,
The
spades, &c.
from
them,
and
tenants,
persons
on
the
Monday
with guns, pikes, swords, pitchforks, hatchets, turf

party indignantly denied that it emanated
proclaimed that it was one of the tricks of the
Commons
On Monday two bands arrived from Belfast and proceeded

opposition.
to the Great Commons, followed by a large number of persons.
The
Commons party mustered in strong forces armed with bludgeons, and
There were
kept strict watch that no one trespassed on the farms.
about 2,000 persons present.
A memorial was prepared for presentation by the

April 3rd.
Municipal Commissioners to the Lords of the Treasury, praying their
assent to, and confirmation of the action of the Commissioners in
It contained the following
distributing the Commonable lands.
" That in the
year 1855 the then Municipal Commissioners of the said
borough presented their petition to the late Encumbered Estates Court,
praying for the sale of certain lands and premises therein mentioned,
and which were so vested in their corporate capacity for the purpose of
paying certain charges and encumbrances affecting the same.
April 24th. A telegram was received in Carrickfergus from London,
announcing that the Lords of the Treasury had given their consent to
the recent allotment of the Great Commons, and empowering the
Municipal Commissioners to grant leases for sixty-one yârs to the
:
tenants of these
On
Commonable
lands.
Saturday, nth June, the Treasurer of the Carrickfergus

Municipal Commissioners attended at the Courthouse to collect the
first rents from the tenants of the Great Commons.
t The grounds on which the petition is issued are in ten paragraphs.
The first and second paragraphs are formal, and in the third it is
and corrupt
alleged that Mr. Greer was guilty of bribery, treating,
121
House, against the return of Mr. Thomas Greer as member for

Borough of Carrickfergus, by Mr. M. R. Dalway.
1 88 1,
November i9th.
A new lamp* and
the
drinking
fountain were erected by the Municipal Commissioners at the
head of High Street.
November yth, Tuesday.

Three fishermen were
accidentally drowned by the capsizing of their boat, by a squall
in the lough, two miles off Kilroot Point.
The names of the
fishermen were Robert Davison, Thomas Weatherup, and Robert
1882,
Reid.
1883, In June of this year the first number of the "Carrick"
was published.
fergus Advertiser f and East Antrim Gazette
The petitioner prays

practices before, during, and after election, &c.
that it may be determined that Mr. Greer was not duly elected, and
that the election and return were null and void.
Thursday, June 3rd. The trial of the election was opened in the
Courthouse before Mr. Baron Dowse and Mr. Justice Harrison.
Admission to the Courthouse was by ticket, owing to the limited
accommodation.
The
Mr. Marriot Robert Dalway, D.L.,

Mr. Thomas Greer, on the
ground of bribery, treating, personation, and undue influence, used
either by Mr. Greer or those employed on his behalf.
His Lordship, having dealt with the facts of the case and with the
" The conclusion he had come to was that
law on the subject, said
it was not an
and that the result was that
act of corrupt treating
both he and his learned brother would, have to report to the Speaker
of the House of Commons, that Mr. Greer had been duly elected."
Mr. Baron Dowse said that he wished just to add, that in their
certificate to the Speaker of the House of Commons, they would not
only state that Mr. Greer had been duly elected, but that there was
no proof that either candidate had been guilty of corrupt practices, and
that no corrupt practices prevailed at the last election.
In the evening Mr. Greer was drawn in triumph through the
principal streets of the town, in an open carriage, by his enthusiastic
supporters, and afterwards drawn to his residence at Seapark, where
he addressed a large crowd assembled on the lawn in front of his
sought
to
unseat
petitioner,
the
member,
present
house.
The numbers
polled
Thomas
at
this
election
Greer, Esq. (C.),
were
...
...
Marriott Robert Dalway, Esq. (L.),

*
...
591
554
37
The
of cast metal, standing on a concrete base, and

equal in strength to the light of 200 candles. " It is
Great
the site of where a large cross stood called
structure
the lamp is
erected near
is
Patrick."
t The late Rev. James Warwick published a paper called the
"Carrickfergus Freeman," which he discontinued a number of years
before his death, which occurred in 1882.
1883, Mr.
I5th June,
"
" Advertiser
from Market
James Bell issued the fir%t number of the
It was
Place, which was distributed free up till September, 1884.
afterwards
Street
transferred
and North
to
Street.
pages of that newspaper.
the
present
offices
at
The following annals
the corner of High

are taken from the
122
October 5th.
fergus,
Sir Stafford Northcote, M.P., visited Carrick-
and was entertained by Thomas Greer, Esq., M.P.,
After luncheon the party drove to Carrickfergus

Castle and were conducted through it and to the top of the
Tower by Colonel James Craig, 2nd Brigade. N.I. Division
* were
Royal Artillery. On returning to the yard the party
Seapark.
photographed by Mr. Magill, Donegall Place.

A meeting was held in the
Tuesday, November 2oth.
Courthouse,
Carrickfergus,
in
relation
to
Women's
Suffrage,
under the presidency of Mr. M. R. Dalway, D.L. There was.

a large attendance. Addresses were delivered by the Chairman,
Miss Biggs (London), Miss Todd (Belfast), the Rev. A.
Armstrong, and Mr. John A. Bowman (Lame), and the following resolution adopted
"
:
That the exclusion of women who are
possessed of the statutory qualifications for voting in the election

of members of Parliament, is injurious to the community at
large."
Mr. M. R. Dalway, D.L., wrote to the

1884, February.
Postmaster General, pointing out the advantages of Carrickfergus as a mail packet station, and stating that the town
occupied a more central position than either Belfast or Larne,
and that when the new Harbour Works were completed, Carrickfergus would be the best port for the mail service between the
North of Ireland, England, and Scotland.
The Redistribution of Seats Bill, passed this year,

deprived Carrickfergus of the privilege of returning a Member
to the Imperial Parliament.
Their Royal Highnesses the
1885, Monday, April 27th.
Prince and Princess of Wales (now King and Queen) and
Prince Albert Victor paid a visit t to this town.
*The party included the Duke of Abercorn, Marquis of Hamilton,

Marquis of Headford, Earl of Kilmorey, Earl of Yarmouth, and
Countess Yarmouth, Earl of Belmore, Viscount and Viscountess
Crichton, Lord and Lady Arthur Hill, Sir Thomas and Lady Bateson,
Lieutenant-Colonel Sir James M'Garell Hogg, M.P., George E. Kirk,
High Sheriff, and many others of the town and neighbourhood, who,
preceded
by the Orangemen, walked round the Quay and on arriving
"
at
King William's Stone," the Rev. J. Hamilton Bennett and Sir
Stafford Northcote stood thereon, when an address from the Orangemen
of the district was read by Mr. Bennett.
t This visit was not only embraced as a fitting opportunity for the
presentation of addresses of loyalty and welfome by the inhabitants,
but for the naming of the piers forming the new harbour, and the
Extensive
driving the first spike of the Harbour Junction Railway.
and a
preparations were made for the performance of the ceremonies,
;
123
1
886,
March
i2th.
Colonel Magendie,
Her Majesty Queen
Victoria's Chief Inspector of Explosives, visited Carrickfergus,
and
officially
Messrs.
inspected the
Cambridge
&
Co.,
gunpowder magazine belonging to

which
is
said
to
be the largest
licensed private magazine in Ireland.
June 8th, same year. Much interest was manifested by the

people of Carrickfergus in the debate on Mr. Gladstone's Home
Rule Bill. When the news arrived of the defeat of the Bill,
a feeling of thankfulness pervaded the entire community.
In
the evening bands paraded the streets and all passed off peacefully.
Very
serious rioting took place in Belfast, seven lives
grand stand was erected on the pier for the accommodation of the
The Royal Party arrived by special train about 2-50 p.m.,
spectators.
and were received at the station by Mr. Marriott R. Dalway, whowore the uniform of a Deputy-Lieutenant, and Mr. D. Digby Johns,
Town Clerk Mr. Pardo A.' Kirk, High Sheriff, and Mr. Robert
On their arrival a Royal Salute
Kelly, Sub-Sheriff, were also present.
The
of twenty -one guns was fired from the cannons at the Castle.
distinguished visitors then proceeded in carriages through Railway
Street, Albert Road, West Street, Market Place, and Castle Street, to
the Harbour, where Mr. M. R. Dalway, D.L., presented a most loyal
address from the Municipal Commissioners and Harbour Commissioners,
which was read by Mr. D. Digby Johns, Town Clerk.
Her Royal Highness then proceeded to name the Peirs, the East,
Simultaneously
the Albert Edward, and the West, the Alexandra.
with the naming of the Piers, a Royal Salute of twenty-one guns was
fired from the fleet.
The next ceremony was the opening of the new Harbour by His
Mr." L. L. Macassey, C.E., presented him with a
Royal Highness.
It bore an
etched in gold and colours.
special steel hunting knife,
" Presented to H.R.H. the Prince of Wales on
inscription on one side
the occasion of his opening the new Harbour of Carrickfergus, 27th
His Royal Highness then cut the cord and declared the
April, 1885."
Harbour open, amidst "renewed cheers, the band playing "St. Patrick's
schooner Susan,
Day." The first vessel to enter the Harbour was the
commanded by Captain Robert Donald, and under the direction of Mr.
Thomas Hamilton, Harbour Master.
the first spike of t
Following this came the ceremony of driving
new Harbour Junction Railway. For this purpose His Royal Highness
was presented with a wrought steel plate-'.ayer's hammer of tn<
;
:"
Presented to H.R.H. the Pi

ne%vest design, with inscription
of the Carn
of Wales on the occasion of his driving the first spike
As the Royal
fergus Harbour Junction Railway, 2jih April, 1885.
Partv left the dais on the return to the station, the band played
and Royal
National Anthem, and cheers were given for the Queen
was fired
Family- As the train left Carrickfergus another salute
were indulged
the Castle, and unmistakable expressions of loyalty
until the train was lost to view.
bv
On arriving at Larne Harbour the Royal Party were received
introduce<
Mr. James Chaine, M.P., and Lord Waveney immediately
from that bo
the Town Commissioners to the Prince, who received
At a quarter to five the bow of the Osboi
a most loval address.
the Rifles playing the Natio
swung out" from the pier, the band of
.
Anthem.
124
Avere lost
and, in addition, a large
number were dangerously
wounded.
The Municipal Commissioners of Carrick1887, March.

fergus forwarded an address to Queen Victoria congratulating
Her Majesty on attaining the fiftieth year of her reign.
This anniversary was most suitably
1888, July 1 2th.
celebrated in the neighbourhood by the loyal brotherhood of
Orangemen and their friends.*
1 8th same month.
This town was the scene of an event of
unusual interest and importance to Orangemen and Loyalists
Not only was the triennial meeting of

throughout the world.
the Grand Orange Council of the World held here, but the
members of
to
the
Orange
the
celebrate
Institution
tricentenary
of
and
the
their friends
defeat
of
assembled
the
Spanish
Armada, and the bicentenary of the landing of the Prince of

Orange at Torbayt
The
procession when it left the town numbered close on 10,000,

They marched first
being made at the Methodist Church.
through Albert Road, to the North Gate, into North Street, High
and
West
and
the
thence
Street
Woodburn
Street,
Road, to a field,
by
which had most kindly been granted to the Orangemen for the
The chair was taken by Bro. W. H. H.
occasion by Bro. Elliot.
Lyons, County Grand Master, who, having addressed the meeting,
called on Bro. the Rev. J. Hamilton Bennett to move the first resolution,
"
which was as follows
That, at our anniversary this year, 1888,
we devoutly thank God for the signal defeat of the Spanish Armada in
I588,and for the Glorious Revolution of 1688, gratefully acknowledging
that it was by His arm alone by which these deliverances were wrought
for our nation, and our religion, and ascribing to Him the honour
the
start
The first notice we have of Orangemen in

when on the i2th July three lodges walked in
In 1825 a number of Orangemen proceeding to walk were
procession.
their
dispersed by the Mayor, who took the sword from the tyler
drum was also broken. At present the Carrickfergus District numbers
due
to
His
name."
Carrickfergus
is
in
1823,
ten lodges.
T On the arrival of the 9-50 train from Belfast, the Grand Lodge
Officers of Antrim, together with the delegates and guests who had been
invited to the Council, were met by a contingent of the Orangemen of
The whole company, including the Earl of Erne, Grand
the district.
Master of the Orangemen of Ireland, formed in processional order,
Parish
and, headed by the Constitutional Flute Band, proceeded to the
Church, where divine service was held. The prayers were read by the
Rrv. Dr. Kane, and the Ven. the Archdeacon of Connort preached
The brethren, on leaving the church, formed once more
the sermon.
into processional order, and proceeded to the Harbour, where the
Earl of Erne stepped upon the stone on which the Prince of Orange
is said to have first set his foot upon his landing at Carrickfergus.
The Rev. J. Hamilton Bennett, D.M., Carrickfergus, said it became
his duty to wish his Lordship a hearty welcome on that occasion, and
him to tell his Lordship that the Orangemen,
take
that he'
might
upon
12 5
About 10-45 a m a number of large

1889, August 5th.
the Lough, several being attended
by torpedo
-
ships entered
boats.*
Lord Wolseley visited Carrickfergus.

1890, gth October.
His Lordship and party proceeded to the Castle, and a careful
inspection was made of the troops stationed there.
At half-past four o'clock, the
1891, Monday, July 6th.
workmen employed on the Belfast Waterworks, Woodburn,
not only of Carrickfergus, but of the whole country round about, were
entirely opposed to anything in the nature of an effort to repeal the
Union between Great Britain and Ireland. The Earl of Erne, in reply,
thanked them, and the procession then proceeded to the Town Hail,
where the Triennial Council was opened under the presidency of the
Earl of Erne.
After the business of the Council had been transacted,
the Worshipful Grand Master and brethren of the County Antrim
Grand Lodge invited the delegates and a large number of local gentlemen to dinner in the Town Hall, which was gaily decorated with flags.
+ The Archdeacon of Connor was a very prominent Orangeman, and
was incumbent of St. John's, Malone, Belfast, and Grand Chaplain of
the County Grand Lodge of Belfast. He died at Glencoe, Antrim Road,
the residence of his son-in-law, January 28th, 1907. At the time of his
A memorial window was erected to
death he was Dean of Connor.
Three of
his memory by public subscription in the Belfast Cathedral.
Dean Seaver's sons are clergymen, and one of the remaining three is
Mr. Henry Seaver, Architect and C.E., Belfast. The Rev. Jonathan
Seaver is vicar of St. Mathews, Surbiton, London the Rev. William
and the Rev. Richard Seaver is
Seaver, vicar of Spondon, Derby
;
rector
of
St.
John's.
Memorial, and Mr.
J.
The Rev. N. E. Smith, of Drew

Malone.
Thompson M' Donald, of Glencoe, Antrim Road,
are his sons-in-law.
*They came
in straggling fashion until they
reached the man-of-war
a
Carrickfergus and Greypoint, where they lay for
Immediately
couple of hours, but did not appear to cast anchor.
afterwards a torpedo boat shot out from the ships and was soon
The official in charge was the bearer of a 'arge
inside the Harbour.
" On Her
To
Immediate.
Majesty's Service.
envelope addressed
His Worship the Mayor or Chief Civil' Authority of Carrickfergus."
He inquired for the Mayor, but that functionary not being visible, the
missive was handed to the coastguard for delivery. It was in precisely
similar terms to that delivered to the Mayor of Belfast, and was signed
After the letter had been delivered, the torpedo
by Admiral Tyson.
boat made off, and the ships got under weigh and left the lough about
two o'clock. They were all disguised, their funnels being painted
The following are believed to be the names of
various way*.
The Bellisle, turret ship, the Traveller, twin screw tug, t
between
roads,
ships
the name of the gunboat

Cvclope Hecate, and Gorgon, all turret ships
boats (fo
or despatch vessel, could not be ascertained, and the torpedo
There was much excitement in Carrickfergus
are known bv numbers.
would be exchanged
at the time, 'and it was unknown whether shots
between the fortress and the fleet. It was afterwards stated
manoeuvres.
these vessels was in connection with the naval
;
visit of
126
heard a loud rushing noise, which proved to be a whirlwind *
of wonderful velocity.
A meeting f of the Municipal

1892, January 22nd.
Commissioners was held to consider what steps the Board should
take respecting their interests in the event of a Local Government
Bill being introduced for Ireland.
An
address was presented to the Marquis of

coming of age, by the Carrickfergus and
Straid tenantry, when on this occasion his lordship entertained
July 5th.
Downshire on
his
In the evening
2,000 of his tenantry at Hillsborough Castle.
on the Cairn Hill and at Straid.
bonfires were lighted
The Working Men's Institute was

1893, January 2ist.
formed for the benefit of working men of all denominations in
the neighbourhood.
Tuesday, May 23rd. The Unionists of Carrickfergus and

took advantage of the visit of the Marquis of Salisbury
district
to organise a very effective and enthusiastic demonstration at the

railway station as the special train which carried his Lordship
The band played the
to Belfast passed at 12-45 from Larne.
National Anthem, and all present joined heartily in singing

while the train steamed slowly through the station.
On Thursday, 25th, a deputation of the Unionists of
* The
cyclone passed over the upper reservoir, raising an immense
column of water in its vortexând carrying it away across the country.
The water-spout fell as a deluge of rain on the Bryantang road, above
a public-house, and rushed foaming down the overflow course of the
The storm deviated from a straight line
above-mentioned reservoir.
after crossing Bryantang road, and spent its fury after unroofing a
house on the road to Ballynure. No serious injury was reported.
TAt this meeting the following resolution was adopted: "That
this Board, anticipating that a Local Government Bill, on the lines of
the English Local Government Act, will be introduced for Ireland,
forward to the Chief Secretary for Ireland a statement showing the
and County of the
position of Carrickfergus as a Municipal Borough
Town, and request that, in the event of such a Bill being introduced,
the County of the Town of Carrickfergus be constituted an administrative County of itself."
was held, and the following
On the 5th of May another
" That meeting
resolution was passed
we, the Municipal Commissioners of
the County of the Town of Carrickfergus, regard the Local 'Government
:
Bill
the
for
Ireland
wants of
now
this
before Parliament as a fair measure, suited to

and we trust the Government will make
country,
the Commissioners should

ment."
receive the careful attention of the Govern-
127
Carrickfergus presented an address of welcome to his Lordship

in the Town Hall, Belfast.
The Municipal Commissioners promoted a Bill in

1894.
Parliament which gave them power to
levy rates for sanitary
and other purposes.

vote
A meeting of persons qualified to

1895, February i2th.
was held in the Courthouse, Town Hall, in order to
pass a
approving of the expense of promoting a bill in

Parliament, to levy rates for sanitary and other purposes, to be
paid out of the Commissioners' rents arising from corporate
Daniel Bowman, Esq., Chairman.
property.
1895, June 22nd. The foundation stone of a new Orange
Hall was laid at the east end of Eden, parish of Kilroot,
resolution
by
the late M.
On
W.
E. Dobbs, Esq., D.L., J.P., Castle Dobbs.

the 27th February following it was opened
by Mr.
Dobbs.
A serious fire broke out in Joymount

1896, April 27th.
Bleach Works, which completely demolished a large building
and destroyed a considerable quantity of goods, the damage
being estimated at ^2,000.
Same month the foundation stone of the Knockagh Orange
Hall was laid by Bro. William H. Arbuthnot.
June 26th. The Royal Society of Antiquaries paid a visit

to the town, and were conducted through the Castle and St.
Nicholas Church by W. J. Fennell, Esq., M.R.I. A., who gave a
most interesting description.
Same month
the
new Recreation Grounds, Clipperstown,
were opened.
Field
Marshal Earl Roberts, V.C.,
August 27th.
Commander-in-Chief of the Forces in Ireland, paid a visit to
the town. He was accompanied by Major-General Geary, C.B.,
Commanding Troops,
Belfast District.
September 4th. The foundation stones of a new Masonic

Hall * were laid in Victoria Street in presence of an imposing
assemblage of members of the order and the general public.
* For
years the Freemasons of Carrickfergus held their

upper floor of a house in Lancasterian Street. Feeling
they were not in a place worthy of the order or suited for its
ceremonies, a number of brethren formed a committee in 1895, and
assemblies
many
in the
the sanction of the Provincial Grand Lodge was obtained to build a

new Masonic Hall. Funds were raised from Lodges 43, 282, and
Chapter 253, also by personal subscriptions and collections from those
128
lifeboat *
of the latest design and

modern improvements was presented to the
inhabitants of the town by T. B. Dryburgh, Esq., London.
The Marquis of Dufferin and Ava,
1897, April 1 4th.
Lords
accompanied by
Bangor and De Ros, and Major
September i8th.
with
fitted
all
Sharman-Crawford,
visited
Carrickfergus
for
the purpose of
inspecting the fine fleet of yachts which were being built in Mr.
John Hilditch's ship and yacht-building yard.
The Belfast District (Xo. 17) of the
August 7th.
Order
of
Rechabitesf arrived in the town, and were
Independent
The foundation stones were laid by Bro. Thomas

D.P.G.M., Bro. James Barr, V.W.P.S.G.W., Bro. Col.
James M. M'Calmont, and Bro. A. J. A. Lepper, l.P.P.M. The
architect was S. P. Close, C.E., and the contractor Ezekiel Caters.
The new Hall was opened and dedicated on July 2nd, 1898.
The history of Freemasonry in Carrickfergus is very interesting.
For a number of years there was but Lodge 43, and there being a
great many unattached members in the town, enough to form another,
In
they applied to the Grand Lodge in Dublin for a warrant number.
looking up vacant numbers, 282 was found to have formerly belonged
The je\vels belonging to this Lodge when in
to Carrickfergus.
Carrickfergus were formerly in the possession of the late Marriott
Dalway, Esq., Bellahill his son, the present Marriott Robert Dalway,
Esq., D.L., J.P. (of Bellahill, and Lome, Victoria, Australia), before
leaving for Australia, in 1886, gave them into the charge of Lodge 43,
On examining the
there being no other in Carrickfergus at that time.
" Harmonie " was found on
them, which is the name
jewels the name
of the present No. 282.
An interesting story is told of the old warrant that it was taken
to Baltimore by a company of soldiers who were stationed at Carrickit was brought back, but was afterwards destroyed by fire.
fergus
A new warrant was made for the present Lodge, dated 1817.
outside the craft.
Valentine,
states that Thourot, when he visited Carrickfergus in

it was afterwards
1760, carried off the flag belonging to Lodge 282
restored to Carrickfergus by Captain Elliott after he had captured the
French fleet off the Isle of Man and slain Thourot in the engagement.
This flag is (or was) now in the possession of Mrs. Letts, the daughter
of the late Rev. James Warwick, Carrickfergus.
In olden times, on St. John's Day, 24th June, the Freemasons
Tradition
The custom has long

walked in procession, with flag and regalia.
since ceased.
*
A demonstration took place at^ the
September 26th, Saturday.
Mrs. G. E. Kirk,
pier, and the christening ceremony performed by
The religious services were conducted by the Rev. George
Thornfield.
Chamberlain. The boat was named the Zaida.
The Royal National Lifeboat Institution
November nth.
established a branch at Carrickfergus, and a new boathouse built out-
26th, by Mrs. J. M. M'Calmont.

origin in 1835, at Salford, England,
but its influence was not felt in Ireland until eleven years laier. The
Belfast District very largely owes its origin to the wave of earnest
over the North of Ireland in 1859, and in
religious fervour that swept
The first meeting of
this present year District No. 17 held its jubilee.
Ruler
the Order was held on December ist, 1859, the District Deputy
side the East Pier
TThe
was opened, on the
Rechabite Order had
its
129
joined by the Carrickfergus Fortress Tent, No. 2091, and the
whole, numbering about 1,000, formed in processional order, and
accompanied by a number of bands, and carrying the banners
of the various lodges, marched through the principal streets of

the town to the Recreation Grounds. -The sight was a novel
one
in Carrickfergus,
many
and the presence of the
coloured dresses,
among
fair sex, with their
their sterner brethren, as well as
the boys and girls, also wearing their sashes, who had thus early
joined the temperance crusade, made it equally pretty and
imposing.
1 3th same month.
formed.
The
Jubilee Nursing Association was
In 1898, by the Irish Local Government Act the County

Town of Carrickfergus was abolished and merged in
By the same Act the Board of Municipal
County Antrim.
Commissioners was dissolved, and the duties taken over by an
of the
Urban
District
Council consisting of
18
members,
and the
Towns Improvement (Ireland) Act, 1854, made

apply to the town forming the Urban Sanitary District.
1899, Monday, January i6th. The first election under the
provisions of the
to
provisions of the Local Government (Ireland) Act, 1898, was

The Municipal Board formerly
held in the Town Hall.
of twenty members, each member representing 500

but as the population of the County of the Town
decreased, it was necessary, under the new Act of Parliament,
consisted
electors,
Board should consist of eighteen members.* Under

the former franchise the qualification was limited to those who
10 and upwards, but under the recent Act
had a rating of
that the
all
those
who pay
January 3oth.
rates
were entitled to
vote.
public meeting was held
in the
Union
father of the
appointed on that occasion was Bro. Joseph Moneypenny,
well-known and respected Belfast City Chamberlain, F. W. Moneypenny,
M.V.O. and the first District Treasurer was Mr. Robert Carswell,
founder of R. Carswell & Son, Ltd., Belfast, father of Alan Carswell,
The Independent Order of
the present head of the firm.
J.P.,
Rechabites is the oldest temperance fraternity and the wealthiest
The Carrickfergus Fortress Tent, No.
friendly society in the world.
2019, was not established until 1891.
Thomas Vint,
*The names of the first Urban Council were
Char!
James Logan, Robert A. Carnaghan, Alexander Miscampbell, Edward
M. Legg, William Gorman, William Byrtt, Austin Cornwall,
Thomas Jack,
Davy, Arthur B. Francis, John Hagan, John Patterson,
Walter Carruth, David Black, James M'Cullough, Paul Rodgers, Henry
M'Cavana. Chairman, Thomas Vint.
;
10
130
Hall
J.P.,
of the candidature of Thomas Houston, Esq.,

Carnmoney, as a County Councillor* for the
in support
Ashley,
town of Carrickfergus.
On the 4th February there was another meeting in favour
of Alexander Miscampbell, Esq., Governor's Place, Carrickfergus, as a County Councillor for the town.
May 26th. The eightieth anniversary of the birthday of
Queen Victoria was celebrated here in the customary manner, f
Thursday, June ist. Mr. Henry Fitzgibbon, Q.C., County

Court Judge, attended at the Courthouse, Town Hall, to dispose
of the business of the Half-yearly Sessions, which were the last
to be held at Carrickfergus.
the bench by Messrs. Charles
His Honour was accompanied
to
Robert
MacMurray, Esq., J.P., and William Gorman, Esq., J.P. Mr.
Charles H. Brett, Clerk of the Peace, was also in attendance.
J.
Johnstone,
High
Sheriff,
July 14. The final Commission of Assize + for the County

of the Town of Carrickfergus was opened in the Record Court-
* The
polling for a County Councillor and two District Councillors
to represent Carrickfergus took place on ist April.
The urban electors
who had votes for the County Council Candidates voted in the Courthouse and Town Hall.
The numbers polled at this election were
for
Mr. Miscampbell, 789
for
Mr. Houston, 785.
For Rural
Councillors, Mr. David G. Whiteford, 338, and for Mr. Thomas
:
M'Allister, 322.
t At half-past eleven a.m. the recruits and duty men of the Antrim
Artillery, under the command of Major and Adjutant Paris, paraded in
review order, and ten gun detachments with Sergeant-Instructor
and Company Sergeant-Major

commanded by
Forsyth
Gresley,
Lieutenant R. N. Hill, marched to the Castle. The remainder of the
men proceeded to Joymount Parade, where they were lined along the
sea wall.
At twelve o'clock a Royal salute of twenty -one guns was
opened from the Castle batteries, and on the firing of the seventh gun
the men on Joymount fired a feu de joie, the Artillery band playing
" God Save the
Queen." After the last gun of the salute was fired,
the men returned to camp headed by the band.
The
$
County of the Town of Carrickfergus has, under the
operation of the Local Government Act, been merged for Assizes
in
County Antrim, and the i4th July, 1899, witnessed the final
purpose
The Grand Jury and Municipal Comcommission of the Assize.
missioners, who managed its affairs, being replaced by Urban, Rural,
and County Councillors.
Mr. Charles James Johnston, who had the privilege of being the
a fitting one to bid adieu in
High Sheriff, thought the occasion
" with all
a public manner to the old system
its greatness," while at
the same time to welcome the new "with its possibilities," and on
Saturday night, the ijth July, 1899, gave a banquet in the Town Hall,
Carrickfergus, to the "going judges of Assize," Lord Chief Baron
Pallas and the Right Hon. Mr. Justice Andrews, and the past Grand
Jurors, together with a large number of prominent gentlemen of the
last
town and neighbourhood.
Belfast, before the Right Honourable Mr. Justice

Andrews. His Lordship, in addressing the Grand Jury, said,
"
he had pleasure in informing them that there was no bill to go
before them, he warmly congratulated them upon the creditable
state of the County of the Town of Carrickfergus, thanked them
house,
for their attendance,
and
relieved
them from remaining any
longer.''
July 2 pth.
meeting of the Carrickfergus tenantry ot
the Earl of Shaftesbury was held in the Town Hall, to prepare
an address to be presented to him on the occasion of his
This presentation was

marriage.
Belfast Castle.
made on
the 3ist August, at
160 men of the Special

1900, Sunday, 25th March.
Service Section of the Antrim Artillery, under the charge of
Major Elmitt, left Carrickfergus for South Africa. Some time

before leaving a concert was held in the Albert Hall, at which
presentations of pipes and tobacco were made to the men.
On Wednesday, loth of July, 1901, 80 men of the abovementioned section returned to Carrickfergus, and were entertained
by the inhabitants of the town to breakfast in the old court-house.
After breakfast the men formed on parade on the drill-ground
at the barrack, and were addressed by Colonel M'Calmont, M.P.,
and Major-General Leach, V.C.
June 6th. The inhabitants of Carrickfergus celebrated the
Flags
occupation of Pretoria in a most enthusiastic manner.
were hoisted and bunting displayed in profusion in every public
thoroughfare in the town, while bonfires were lit at the Scotch
A torchlight
Castle Gardens, and elsewhere.
the
Good
was
Templar
procession
organised, accompanied by
Brass Band and the Carrickfergus Flute Band. The greatest
Quarter
Pier,
enthusiasm
prevailed
everywhere,
the
streets
being
crowded.
an advanced hour, and everything

rejoicings
in
most
a
off
peaceful manner.
passed
8th.
General Sir George White, V.C. G.C.B.,
June
Friday,
The
lasted
till
visit to
&c., the gallant defender of Ladysmith, paid a brief
inhabitants
the
from
a
and
received
presentation
Carrickfergus,
of the town and district at the railway station.*
*A large platform was erected on the left of the station on which

the presentation was made. A naval guard consisting of 60 men from
H.M.S. Calliope was drawn upon the platform, and when the General.
the
Lady White, their daughter, and party, set foot on the platform
men" presented arms, and the bugle sounded the general salute. The
132
September
Mrs.
Skeffington
paid a
Colonel James Craig, J.P., and the Hon.

Craig, of Carlton Hall, Carlton-on-Trent,
yth.
Carrickfergus in order to present the

"
"
as
Carlton House
(which they
a
for
Men's
Christian
purchased
Young
Association) to the
trustees, free of rent for ever.
Notts,
to
visit
Deeds of the building known
1900, September 2pth.

meeting was held in the Town
of the supporters of Colonel J. M. M'Calmont as
The chair was
Parliamentary candidate for East Antrim.*
Hall
taken by John M'Ferran, Esq.

Colonel M'Calmont,
most enthusiastically received, addressed the meeting.
who was
October, 5th. Dr. King Kerr addressed, in the Courthouse,

one of the largest meetings held in connection with his East
Antrim campaign.
The news of the death of Queen
1901, January 22nd.
Victoria was received here with profound sorrow. After ringing
the curfew,t the bells of St. Nicholas Episcopal Church and
the First Presbyterian Church were tolled for about an hour.
Flags were unfurled
at half-mast
on the tower of the
Castle,
Town
Mr.
Hall, and on the shipping in the Harbour.
Thomas Vint, J.P., as Chairman of the Urban District Council,
sent a telegram of condolence to
Sir Francis Knollys,
the
Marlborough House.
The Earl and Countess of Shaftesbury,

Mr.
Thomas H. Torrens, J.P., his Lordship's
accompanied by
agent, arrived at the Town Hall at 12-30, and were received by
Mr. Thos. Vint, Chairman of the Urban Council, who
March 22nd.
introduced those who had received invitations to meet them.

Lord and Lady Shaftesbury then inspected the old charters,
minute books, drawings, seals, &c., Mr. Thos. Vint and Mr.
James
Boyd,
Town
of
consisted
presentation
accompanying
it
Clerk,
was placed
explaining
the
contents
of
the
and the address

silver
salver,
a cylindrical red morocco-covered case.
solid
in
After the departure of Sir George >Vhite and party, Mr. Thomas
Chairman of the Urban District Council, entertained a very
company in the Town Hall.
The number of votes at the election of a Member of Parliament
Vint,
large
*
for East
Antrim were
Colonel M'Calmont
Dr. King Kerr
...
...
...
...
3,582
2,653
P.2Q
one of the old customs of feudal times that is still kept

Other bells are the labour bell, the state bells,
Carrickfergus.
t This
is
up in
and the market
bell.
c.
In the afternoon the Earl and Countess
Shaftesbury proceeded to the Barn, where they partook of
luncheon with Mr. John M'Ferran, and afterwards drove to
inspect the Castle, Parish Church, and New Parochial Schools.
charters,
Up till July, 1901, Carrickfergus was the headquarters of

Royal Irish Constabulary, Carrickfergus District, which
the
included Glenarm, Larne, Ballyclare, Greencastle, Whiteabbey,

and Doagh stations. On the 24th July the headquarters were
transferred to Larne.
Monday, ipth August. His Royal Highness the Duke* of

Connaught, Commander-in-Chief of the forces in Ireland,
landed at Carrickfergus from His Majesty's ship Malampus,
which arrived in the Lough the previous evening. The principal
object of his visit
have been
was to inspect the new Ordnance Stores which

on the site of the old County Antrim Jail.
built here
November i2th. The S.S. Whiteabbey, a Carrickfergus

owned boat, laden with coal from Preston to Carrickfergus, was
sunk
Groomsport by the force of a great gale. A crew of

who were all from Carrickfergus, were lost.
In 1902 this boat was raised and taken to Belfast to be
off
nine men,
repaired.
December
27th.
meeting was held in Minorca School in
order to establish a branch of the Gaelic League in Carrickfergus.
1902, January.
The
in Lancasterian Street
Hall
old Parochial Hall and Schoolhouse
was sold to the
trustees for
an Orange
of ^200, rent free for ever.

May 26th, Monday. Mr. T. W. Russell, M.P., addressed
a public meeting in the Albert Hall on Compulsory Purchase
The meeting was under the
and Government Land Bill.
at a cost
Labourers' Union,
auspices of the Ulster Tenant Farmers' and
a branch of which was recently established in this neighbourhood.
June 2nd, Monday.
he
News of
the restoration of peace in
*The Duke and party inspected the Castle Garden

viewed the
saw the large guns, and afterwards
"
"
Battery, where
of the
interior
Castle.
He evinced much interest in a book which is preserved
the Castle. This relic of a disturbed period appears to be a^book bound
in morocco, and it bears on the cover the inscription, "Kennedys
Works." On opening the clasp, in the absence of leaves and prints
a number of cartridges
it contains a revolver on one side, and
matter,
on the other.
1872.
It
was given up
at the surrender of
arms about 1865 or
134
South
was
Africa
received
with
much enthusiasm by
the
inhabitants of Carrickfergus.
Flags and bunting were displayed
from many of the business and private houses, and salutes were
by the military from the Castle Gardens. Bonfires were

lighted in several streets of the town and surrounding districts.
27th same month, owing to the illness of His Majesty, King
fired
Edward VII., the coronation celebrations were postponed. The

Urban District Council forwarded a telegram of sympathy to
Sir
Francis
Knollys.
Buckingham
Palace.
The
coronation
Committee representative of the town and district of Carrick"

fergus also forwarded a letter
humbly expressing their
sympathy, hoping and praying that His Majesty may be
speedily restored to health, and that Her Majesty Queen
Alexandria and the Royal Family may be sustained and
comforted in their time of great anxiety."
August pth. The Coronation of King Edward VII. was
celebrated here.
The bells of the Episcopal Church and other
churches were rung during the time that the coronation
ceremony was proceeding in Westminster Abbey. At 12 noon
a Royal salute of twenty-one guns was fired, and immediately
afterwards the public assembled in Victoria
In the evening there was
National Anthem.
Dress Parade, accompanied by several Brass
was fired as a signal for lighting of bonfires,
Place sung the
Grand Fancy
A gun
and the ringing
Bands.
of the church bells as a signal for a general illumination of

houses.
There was a grand display of fireworks at Joymount
and elsewhere.
most disastrous fire

1903,* Saturday, 7th February.
occurred in the Woodburn Weaving Factory, situated about a
mile inland from Carrickfergus, damage being done to the
^25,000. The Belfast Fire Brigade was telephoned

and a four horse engine or steamer was despatched with
full complement of men and apparatus, which did the journey
of eleven miles in the short space of an hour.
extent of
for,
*
September loth, same year, Colonel James Craig, J.P., and the
Hon. Mrs. Skeffington Craig, in the Town Hall, formally presented to
the Urban Council of Carrickfergus a manual engine and fire escape,
with all appliances, for the use of the inhabitants and neighbourhood.
In May, 1908, they exchanged the manual engine for a splendid
steam fire engine, which has proved to be very beneficial to the town
and district.
In 1903 Colonel Craig also presented 10 iron seats to be placed on
the sea front and elsewhere to accommodate the public.
135
The walking boom
attracted a wonderful amount of

and neighbourhood, and a local walk
took place, from Larne to Carrickfergus, on the
2yth June.
A large crowd witnessed. the start at Larne, which was performed
by R. H. H. Baird, Esq., J.P., Belfast.
June.
interest in Carrickfergus
Same
Monday, July 26th, their Majesties' visit to

marked in Carrickfergus by a liberal display of
bunting from many of the principal business establishments
and private houses. On the Castle Tower the Royal Standard
floated during Sunday and Monday, and the local Coastguard
Station and Rowing Club Boathouse were decorated with flags
and streamers. The Urban District Council of Carrickfergus
year,
Belfast was
presented a most loyal address of welcome to their Majesties on

this occasion of their visit to Belfast.
The deputation consisted
of Mr. Charles M.
Legg and Mr. William Gorman, J.P.

The Urban District Council
gth.
of
1904,
July
Carrickfergus held a special meeting to present Mr. and Mrs.
H. G. Legg, Carrickfergus and Capetown, with an illuminated
i
address in recognition of the generous gift of ^1,000 for a

for the town.
new cemetery
The Naval Manoeuvres began in the

8th, Monday.
The opposing sides were called respectively the " Red "
and "Blue." The Blue occupied the Irish Coast with a base
August
bay.
at
Carrickfergus.
There
were three
battleships
and
three
second cruisers on the Roads opposite the Castle.

The Right Rev. Thomas Welland,
1904, December loth.
D.D., Bishop of Down, Connor, and Dromore, conducted the
service of consecration of
new
"
Victoria
"
Cemetery, off
G. Legg, of Capetown and
It
Carrickfergus, to the inhabitants of the town and district.
from
mile
distant
a
and
is
about
five
acres,
comprises about
Larne Road, the
gift
the
of Mr.
Hugh
Carrickfergus.
the
1905, April yth. Messrs. Henry Laverty & Sons purchased

valuable property known as Wilson's Meadows and
proceeded to erect extensive brickworks.*

* In
an old and
taking this step the Messrs. Laverty were renewing
valued association with Carrickfergus, the firm having been founded by
The extent to which it developed
the late Mr. Henry Laverty in 1868.
was such that it became increasingly difficult to conduct it from
to Belfast.
Carrickfergus, and in 1888 it was found necessary to remove
After the death of Mr. Henry Laverty, the founder of the firm, the
business was converted into a private Limited Liability Company,
and Hugh
having as its heads Messrs. John, James, William,
136
The Royal Society of Antiquarians of Ireland

July 2nd.
paid a visit to the town ; the Castle and St. Nicholas Church
were visited, and an interesting description was given by
W. J. Fennell, Esq., M.R.I. A. In the evening the party were

entertained by Sir Hugh and Lady Smiley, at Drumalis, Larne.
October
6th.
General
the
Right
Hon. Lord Grenfell,
G.C.B., G.C.M.G., commanding the forces in Ireland, made a

brief inspection of the Old Courthouse, Ordnance Stores, and
the Castle.
At a luncheon subsequently given

Daniel
Sir
Mayor,
Dixon,
M.P.,
his
in Belfast
Lordship's
by the Lord
health was
enthusiastically toasted.*
November
Miss L. Rentoul, Belfast, delivered her

27th.
"
lecture on
The Apotheosis of Liquor," in the
Hall, under the auspices of the First Presbyterian
well-known
Albert
Church Young People's Guild, the Rev. Alexander Cuthbert,

A.M., presiding.
When the news of the return of

1906, i pth January.
Colonel M'Calmont as member for East Antrim was received
Bands
Carrickfergus the greatest enthusiasm prevailed.
a
the
and
nine
o'clock
and
between
town,
paraded
eight
and
the
was
formed
torchlight procession
proceeded through
in
principal
supposed
streets.
In the middle of it a coffin was carried,

the remains of Colonel M'Calmont's
contain
to
opponent, Major Beddoes.
The
rendezvous was Victoria Square,
Laverty, and its career since has been one of continuous success. The
firm has also been engaged carrying out large contracts in Dublin and
Their brickworks are considered second to none in
Londonderry.
Ireland, and the patent kilns are capable of dealing with 200,000 to
230,000 bricks per week.
" his
* In the course of his
stay in
reply to the toast he said,
Belfast had been short, and he hoped the officers present would take
to heart the great military lesson that he had learned during his visit
to Carrickfergus.
In the i4th century an Irish officer with a small
garrison was charged with the defence of Carrickfergus Castle, which
was besieged by an opposing force. The garrison was reduced to the
last extremity
there were no more rations left, and so hopeless was
their
that the Scotch besieging force arranged for the
position
Thirty Scotchmen of the besieging force
capitulation of the place.
Now this was the military
were by the terms allowed to come in.
When he
lesson which he wished the officers present to take to heart
got them inside, the Irish officer shut the gates, killed the thirty
Scotchmen, salted them down, and issued them as rations and thus
he was able to hold out with his garrison until the siege was raised.
The strong military instinct a matter in which he always tried to
educate his officers was very much displayed in that incident."
;
'
'
137
where the
coffin
was consigned to the flames amid the cheers of
the assembled crowd.
Same month,
a Technical School, under the

Agricultural
Ireland, was opened in rented
and Technical Department,

premises in West Street.
On
February 2nd.
the return of Mr. Glendinning as M.P.
for North Antrim (who, with Mr. M'Keen, owns the

important
works at Woodburn), the employees, together with almost all the
neighbourhood, celebrated the event by bonfires.
May
Ballyhill,
1 4th.
A young man named William Hart, of
was brought up before the Magistrates at a Special
Court of Petty Sessions in the
Town
him was being concerned
the
Hall ; the charge against

death of William Martin,
The prisoner was returned for trial at the July
Crossmary.
Assizes, and was found not guilty.
October nth.
Two
Courthouse.
in
serious tragedy took place in the
recruits
named
respectively
Johnston
Old
and
M'Clean had a dispute early in the day, and at night Johnston

stabbed M'Clean in the left side with a fixed bayonet. He was
immediately arrested, and M'Clean was taken in the ambulance
where he died next morning
to the Military Hospital, Belfast,

at six o'clock.
1907, Wednesday,
March 22nd.
fire
broke out in the
and Museum, High Street,

premises of the Union Hall
which involved the total destruction of the building and
material injury to the Post Office premises which adjoined.
August
5th.
detachment of the Rifle Brigade arrived
Carrickfergus, and proceeded to the Castle to relieve the

guard supplied from the staff of the Antrim Royal Garrison
Artillery which had been doing duty there since the serious
in
was formed in Carrickfergus under the name

and Scientific Society," Alexander Johns, Esq.,
Its objects
Treasurer; William Maloney, Esq., LL.D., Secretary.
" To communicate useful
\vere
knowledge, to teach the greatness and
goodness of the Creator, as these are revealed in all His works, and to
The
and goodwill among men."
inculcate temperance,
sobriety,
erection of a public hall was contemplated, and money collected for the
the
money
purpose, but having fallen far short of the amount requisite,
was expended in the purchase of the present property of the Society
been
has
which
known as the "Union Hall," High Street,
destroyed.
These premises are held rent free for ever, and consisted of a reading
other
several
and
of
and
apartments which
museum,
room, library,
were let. These premises are being rebuilt, provision being made for
a Technical School.
of
*In 1853 a
"
the
society
Literary
disturbances *
The
had been without a

Boer War, when the
detachment supplied from the 2nd Battalion of the Royal Irish
Rifles
was withdrawn.
Large quantities of arms and
ammunition are stored in the Castle, which were practically
in
Belfast.
company of regular troops
Castle
since
the
unguarded.
A meeting in connection with the

1908, January 22nd.
forward movement of the Young Men's Christian Association
was held in the Parochial Hall ; the chair was taken by Wm.
The meeting was addressed by Sir
Gorman, Esq., J.P.
Algernon Coote, Bart., President of the Union of Y.M.C.A's
in Ireland, and Chairman of Executive.
A Temperance Demonstration was held in
June 5th.
Victoria Square, under the auspices of the Independent Order
of Good Templars, Independent Order of Rechabites, Total
Abstinence L.O.L., No. 1537, and the Irish Temperance
The meeting was to express satisfaction with the
League.
Bands paraded the
Licensing Bill then before Parliament.
town, and the whole proceedings passed off peaceably.
Colonel James Craig, J.P., and the Hon.
August yth.
Mrs. Skeffington Craig opened the New Mission Hall and
Annexe to the Young Men's Christian Association! premises
in Market Place, which they had given some years before.
* Belfast
had been
experiencing
an
unusual
number
of
trades'
In consequence work was suspended in

many places,
disputes.
The dock labourers' dispute with the
principally around the docks.
Belfast Steamship Company caused the carters to come out in
The strike, which began on the 27th
with the dockers.
sympathy
The carters gained an

continued until the i6th of August.
appreciable advance of wages, and an improvement in the general
while the masters successfully asserted their
conditions of their work
claim to employ non-members of the Carters' Union. The direct cash
losses sustained by the Belfast community are estimated by the special
" Tribune " to amount to
,7,000 in the case of
correspondent of the
10,000 lost by master carriers, and between
wages lost by the men,
.30,000 and ^"40,000 lost by the general body of merchants and
Claims for compensation amounting to over ,30,985 have
retailers.
of June,
boen lodged against the Corporation of Belfast. The City had also to
pay for the upkeep of 3,500 soldiers.
tThe Carrickfergus Y.M.C.A. was established in 1873. The
first meeting in the
beginning was on a small scale, the members
house of Mr. J. K. Mitchell, Governor's Place, but in 1877 premises
were taken in West Street, where a cafe was organised in a small
more
way. Later it was found that this branch of the work required
room, and a larger house was rented in High Street, where the work
of the Association was developed in many directions.
Mrs.
the President, Colonel Craig, and the Hon.
In
1900,
Skeffington
Craig,
purchased the present premises
in
Market Place,
139
Monday, i6th November.
meeting was held in premises

purpose of considering the
advisability of forming in Carrickfergus a branch of the East
in
Governor's
Place
for
the
Antrim Liberal Association.
W. H. Davey,
The meeting was addressed by Mr.

"
M.A., B.L., Editor of the
Ulster Guardian."
1909, Tuesday, 4th May.

held in the Petty Sessions Court.
The
first
Town Court* was
Monday, 24th May, Empire Day. This day was celebrated

whole-hearted fashion throughout the
Addresses
country.
were delivered in the schools to the children,
alluding to the
in
duty of patriotism and love of country, after which the Union

Jack was saluted, followed by the singing of the National
Anthem.
together with
and rooms are
an adjoining
of rent for ever.
contains
site, on which the present Mission Hall

so that the Association might have a home free
The new building, in addition to the Lecture Hall,
dining-room, parlour, recreation rooms, bedrooms,
built,
spacious
and Secretary's office.

The door of the "NT ew Hall was opened by Colonel Craig with a
beautifully engraved gold key, presented by the builder, Mr. Ezekiel
The proceedings inside
Caters, and supplied bv Mr. James Graham.
the Hall were presided over by Sir Robert Anderson, Lord Mayor of
Belfast.
The expenditure involved amounted to ^1,000, and of this sum

Colonel Craig and the Hon. Mrs. Skeffington Craig have given
500.
It
was through Colonel Craig's generosity that Mr. F. W. A.
MacCormac was appointed General Secretary, and his salary paid for
three years.
Since his appointment the movement has made rapid and
wonderful progress.
In the evening, the members of the Young Men's Christian
Association presented an illuminated address in album form to Colonel
in
President,
Craig,
grateful appreciation of the prayerful and
practical interest he had always shown in the welfare of the Association,
signed by the Vice-President, members and associates.
* In recent
years the police found difficulty in dealing with various
offences, and the Urban Council decided to have the Court constituted.
Mr. Thomas Vint, who is Chairman of the Council, was present in

that capacity, and the other magistrates 'occupying the seats on the
bench were
Mr. Robert MacMurray, J.P., Chairman of the ordinary
Mr. H.
Petty Sessions Court, and Mr. Joseph M'Caughan, J.P.
:
Blackburn, solicitor, said he was instructed by

on their behalf and explain the offences which
The fines imposed would be
the Town Court.
the Council, and the Clerk, Mr. David Law,
costs imposed.
the Council to appear

could be dealt with at
lodged to the credit of
would be paid by the
HISTORY
OF CARRICKFERGUS.
&c,,
PART
II.
CHAPTER
IN
I.
proceeding to notice the ancient state of Carrickfergus,

have, for the information of the reader, annexed a plan
of the town, taken about 1550; and shall commence this
we
part of the work with
its
The town appears
elucidation.
protected on the north and west by a
broad trench, or wet ditch

and without any regular streets,
consisting chiefly of a number of castellated mansions, called
by the names of their respective owners, among which are those
:
of Sendall, Russel, and Savage; families who arrived here with

John de Courcy. The small houses, or cabins, were probably
of clay: as the records of 1593 mention, as a remarkable event,
in
"
lyme
West- Street
off
on
&
"
stoane
&
was made fayer

parte thereof was in rotten
street
"
beginning to be erected that yeai

the grounds of which were about said time let
It is added that said
condition of the like being built.
houses of
The
Stronge, wheare before the moste

ruinous clay howses
Cottages."
church of St. Nicholas, save the spire, appears nearly
&
&
and the tower or keep of the castle seems as at

day; but there are no half-moons at the entrance, which is
merely defended by a wall in front, planted with artillery. In
the present market place is observed a large cross, called Great
Patrick
south-west of which is a lofty building, with a double
row of battlements in front, called Machne Coole; 2 and nearly
as at present,
this
This plan was taken from one found amongst the MSS. of the
Dean Dobbs, and is believed to have been copied from a plan
preserved in Lambeth Library.
1
late
2
Perhaps properly Mach-Coole, the reputed father of the northern
hero, Fin, literally Fioun, i.e., fair haired; the former name being often
added to that of Fioun as a surname, and pronounced Mac Cowl, or
Mac Coul; hence Fin, or Phil, Mac Coul, of whom tradition still
142
in the
same
direction, three castles, belonging to the family of
(Wills), and the castle of Patrick Savage.

castellated buildings are those of Dobbin's, Sindall
Wyles
The
other
(Sendall),
the pile of buildings seen near

Rusall, and Stiphinson
"
old Trench," was called
Sindall's Hall, or old howse."
:
an
"
On
"
Wyrol tower or Prison," also called the

old Gatehouse," the jail and court-house of this county ; and
near it, on the north, the dissolved monastery of St. Francis,
the east
is
"
called
"
The
Pallace, late a Freer's
Howse," from which the
date of this plan is pretty correctly ascertained. The abbey was

suppressed at the general dissolution of monastic houses in
1542 ; the town began to be walled with earth or sods, in 1574;
and between those times

perhaps about 1550.
plan must have been taken ;

Respecting this walling with sods, we find
this
the following in the records of that time:

Sheriffes,
x
Octobre ioth, 1574,
was ordered and agreede by the Maior,

Burgioses, & Cominality, that ther should be a
of Sodds or Turffe rounde aboughte the Towne, for
This present day
V amour
"
it
the defence or better Strengthening of the Inhabitaunts of the

same, whiche should be finished by the hole Corporacon, the
fower mounts at the fower Corners of the Towne excepted,

which was made & compiled at the charge of the Prince, whiche
V amour, as aforesaide, was finished within one monthe after the
decree made."
It is
probable that the completion of this walling gave very
additional security to the harassed inhabitants, as in the

2
and soon after
following year the Scots assaulted the town ;
little
we
find the corporation entering into an agreement with the lord

deputy Sidney, respecting which there is the following entry in
"
our records.
Octobre 8th, 1575, at his honor being heare. We,
the maior, & Corporacon, for the better futhering of the
Walling of this Towne, take in bargaine of his Honor to wall

from her Majesties Castell on the North East, unto the mount
many marvellous stories. Why this building was called as

above we can only conjecture perhaps from its antiquity or singularity,
as it seems to differ from those adjoining, and Fin is believed to have
been a giant capable of the greatest human exertions
or are we to
believe that this building was really the castle, or hall of TURA, and
"
that it was from hence Fin went to
all
Scotland with his o\vn
people
hands? " See Campbell's edition of Ossian.
1
V amour. This is evidently of French extraction Yan-mour or
A-vant-mour, a term of fortification, signifying a wall in front.
2
See page 27.
records
143
My II, 1 along by the Sea Syde at 5 Sh. Sterg. the foote,

foote
to be made 7 foote in the foundation, 4 foote in
every
the topp of the wall,
16 foote in heyght, as apereth by the
of the
&
Indentures of the bargaine bearing date 2ist of Octobre." The

owners of this ground to receive 6d. per running foot for their
loss of the same. 2
This walling was soon laid aside by a complication of

was the removal of Sir Henry Sidney,
who resigned the office of lord deputy in September, 1578.
Sir William Drury, and Arthur lord Grey, his successors in
causes, the chief of which
office,
were kept so very busy in the south by the invasion of
the Spaniards, and the rebellion of the earl of Desmond, that

very little attention was paid to the affairs of the north; nor
does any thing farther appear to have been effected in this
3
way, during the government of Sir John Perrot.
The corporation, however, did not lose sight of this
business; for on the icth June, 1594, they sent to England
William Lyndsey, recorder, and Humphry Johnson, alderman
:
who amongst
other things, were to press her majesty respecting

*
the walling of the town. Those agents
appear to have rested
with
Sir Henry Sidney,
their claim chiefly on a contract made
the
estimated
when lord
and
expence of finishing the
;
deputy
To this sum her majesty objected, from the

heavy burthens of the late wars ; on which the agents said, that
the corporation would wall the town, within three years and a
walls at
^1500.
" mount of the

1
Myll," is meant one of the mounts or
By the
shore. The water
ramparts of defence that stood by a mill, close to the
" River." It
that turned it is seen in the annexed plan, marked
passed
tenanted by
though that
part of "The Friar's Garden," now [then]
Mr. A. Cunningham, and beneath the [the then] present grand jury
room of the county of Antrim Courthouse, and emptied itself into the
sea at the west side of the Water gate hence the name of said gate.
;
of the English of Elizabeth's time,

[* Among the first necessities
their desire to introduce the habits of the country, were mills and
brewhouses. In the Calendar of State Papers, dated July, 1574, it is
have one windmill set up at Carigfergus, for that the
stated
mill there cannot serve to grind for the victualling of 1,000 soldiers,
without the which we shall not be able to furnish them except we
t
be forced to grind with querns at excessive charges, besides
This water-mill was probably the one
wastes that fall thereby."
built at
but the windmill was
in
"To
mentioned
in
the above note
this period, the stump of

Belfast side of the town.]
it
still
probably
remaining at Windmill
till,
the agents to the Queen,
[*For a copy of the petition of
"Young's Old
Belfast."]
and
two years after, pay to her majesty and her

40 per annum ; the crown in the mean time to give
the corporation ^300, and resign to them a third part of the
customs of the port, valued at ^7 10 o per annum; also her
majesty's part of the imposts of this port, then valued at twenty
half,
also, in
successors,
marks yearly. All these overtures were, however, rejected by

the cautious Elizabeth, on the ground that she did not know the
value of the customs nor imposts but she afterwards instructed
:
the lord deputy and council in Ireland, to consider the offers

of the corporation, and the value of the customs and imposts,
and what proportion they bore
annum;
per
also to let her
to the offered perpetuity of

their opinion, how Carrick-
^40
know
fergus could be best fortified; and if widening the ditch on

the north, and introducing more water into it, would answer
that purpose.
That she really considered the town deserving
of favour, from the marked attention of the inhabitants to her

"
interest
going forth to any service, with their Garrons and
:
servants without any wages."

Her majesty concludes this letter
"
to the lord deputy as follows
But amongst other things
:
movinge favour, we heare a report worthie to be esteemed, which

is, that there is neither man, woman, nor child, infected with
Papistrie, a thinge which we doubte cannot be truly said
1
any other greate Towne in that Realme."
in
The
walling being now left, in a great measure, to the

of the lord deputy, the agents besought Robert, Earl of
Essex, to use his interest with Sir William Russel, then chief
governor of Ireland, in their behalf; who, in April, the following year, wrote to him, requesting his furtherance of the
will
'
'
of Carrickfergus.
Still the work seems not to
benyfyte
have been proceeded in, as, on the i2th November, 1596, we
find the corporation, in a letter to the lord deputy, complaining
of their expense " in repairinge the rampier or Towne walles
being made with soddes, everie winter the same doth fall down
to our greate ympoverishment." :

All efforts of the corporation regarding the walling were
again frustrated for several years, by the rebellion of Hugh
O'Neill, earl of Tyrone, and the landing of the Spaniards in

In the latter end of 1607, we find the corporation
Munster.
addressing a letter to the lord deputy, Sir Arthur Chichester,

1
MS
complaining that much of her late Majesty's grant to them still
remained unfulfilled, amongst which the walling of the town is
particularly mentioned,
behalf.
and humbly requesting
his aid in their
This memorial proved more successful than the former.

deputy, in his answer, dated February 28th, 1608, informs
them, that his Majesty had consented to furnish 100 men to
"
assist in walling the town ; the corporation to find
a hundred
" "
and
sufficient men
to arme, muster, and keepe in
good able
"
readines for the defence
of the town, and every other service
that might be required of them; but neither officers nor men
The
to receive any pay. 1

He concludes, "yf anie out of a trobled
brayne or factitus spirit should goe about to hinder or give
opposition to what his majestic is so gratiouslie pleased to doe
for you,
me knowe him
lett
that I
may make him
tast the frute
of his follye." A letter from Sir Folk Conway, mayor, then

in Dublin, dated March ist, orders the mustering of the men
" 3
to be furnished by the corporation "on the ist of Octobre;
from which period we hear of no delays or interruptions, the
walls being speedily completed.
These walls were mostly erected without the trench or ditch,
and flanked with seven bastions.
noticed in the ancient plan
:
about six feet thick on the top

towards the land, and about eighteen feet high; coarsely but
strongly built in that manner called grouting; the corners of
3
different from any
the bastions of cut yellowish freestone,
are
They
still
pretty entire,
The
records of Carrickfergus are silent as to any additional

sum of money to be paid to the crown for this walling ;
yet, in April, 1714, Francis Bernard, her Majesty's solicitor general,
sued the corporation for an alleged arrear of a contract of
40 per
annum, from 1690. Defence being taken by the Corporation, we find
no further notice of this suit. Records of Carrickfergus.
1
3
Till of late years the \valls * and corners of the bastions were
pulled down with impunity ; but a complaint being made by the mayor
and sheriffs (in 1815) to baron M'Clelland, one of the judges of
assize, one person was obliged to build up such part as he had taken
down since this time the walls have received comparatively little
charge, or
damage.
now
is a fragment on the north side

This fragment appears to be in a line with the
much larger portion which may be seen a few hundred yards farther
Benn
between.
eastward, " and the old North Gate stands midway
" in 1611
regarding
gives the
Report of the Plantation Commissioners
" labourers are
He notes that
the building of the walls.
employed in
also
breaking of limestone at a place called the "White heade,"
about 40 myles from Knockfergus in breaking of freestones." Under
II
[*A11
of the Albert
left
Road.
of the old walls
i 46
The land side was also

stone found in this neighbourhood.
strengthened by a wet ditch, now filled up.
There were four gates, anciently distinguished by the
Glenarm or Spittal gate, Woodburn or West1
and
gate, Water-gate,
Quay-gate, Spittal-gate, now North-gate,
and West-gate, now Irish-gate, were formerly entered by drawbridges the draw-bridge and deep trench of the latter remained
within memory, and part of the arch * over the former is yet
standing.
Water-gate and Quay-gate were defended by battleIn 1739, the mayor and corporation
ments over them. 2
petitioned the duke of Devonshire, then lord lieutenant of
Ireland, to have the walls and gates repaired, and stated that
"
no manner of Repaires had been done to the walls, Gates, or
following names
"
the Draw-Bridges, since the year 1715;

but it does not appear
3
that this petition was in the least attended to.
most material notices

the account of its
former state and progressive advancement.
In the records of
Having
laid before the reader the
respecting the walling of the town,

this
corporation
respecting
we
find the
we resume
following regulations established
its police.
"The loth, of Januarie 1600 it was condesended &

agreed by the hole Corporacon that all such Aldermen of this
Towne
as are
now devyded into several Quarters or Wards, are

men in eatche of there Severall quarters
to have there able
provyded with some convenient wapons as unto them shall be

thought meette, which is to be accomplished by the last of this
Januarie 1600. And who shall want such meete and convenient
wappons beinge appointed by the Aldermen
shall
be fyned
at
the discression of the Aldermen of the said Ward, and what

Alderman & Deputie shall not give a good reason why they are
not then
furnished
offending, the
be fyned
in 2Sh.
at
Ster.
eatche
and
14
Daves So
his deputie in
Cushendun
i2d
is freestone or red sandstone, also at Cultra,

in walls, church,
either of those places.]
1
This name is believed to have been taken from its being the
way which led to the hospital of St. Bride.
[* In 1849-50 an alteration was made in the arch by an erection
on either side of a smaller arch for the convenience of foot passengers,
There is a tradition
one of the arches is built up, see page 92.
concerning the Old North Gate or archway, that it will stand until a
wise man become a member of the corporation.]
*
From an ancient plan of the town.
the
and
and
sea at
shall
Alderman
it
has been stated that the yellow freestone used
castle
Gill's
came from
MSS.
M7
thone half to the maier,
Ster.
and
that the
&
Statute in thabsence of the maior
&
thother half to the Sheriffs,
Aldermen or there deputies
&
shall
Sheriffes
by Vertue of this
have full power
any person or persons for any disorder

& to enlarge them at there pleasure,
So as there offence hath not bene before the maior for the tyme
beinge and that the aldermen & there deputies shall from tyme
to tyme everie frydaye or Saterdays cawse the Streetts to be
authorittie to comitt
within there Several
Wardes
made
And
cleane in there Severall quarters,
if
anye of the
Sayd Aldermen or there deputies Shall refuse so to doe the

Aldermen to be fyned at 2 Sh. Ster. & the deputie in i2d, ster.
And who Shall infrindge this order Shall be furder punished at

the maiors pleasure, and this Statute to remaine in force from
tyme
to tyme."
these
From
same
time,
it is
and similar regulations established about the

evident that the town was increasing in size and
shall therefore briefly notice its state at the above
population ; we
period, with the names of the principal inhabitants,
their tenements direct from this corporation.
At the
north-east
end of High-street,
anciently,
who
King
held
street,
near the front entrance of the present court-house of the county

of Antrim, stood an antique square building called Castle1
It was also called

elected there,
from
the
being
always
Mayorality-castle,"
mayor
and the assizes and courts being held in the same place. The
entrance into this building was by a projecting stone staircase,
in front of which were stocks, for the punishment of petty
On the ground floor
delinquents, and near the top a clock.
were the cells for criminals; on the second the jailor's and
debtor's rooms ; the mayor's courts and assizes were held on
Worraigh,
"
then the prison of this county.
the third story.

The road leading eastward, was by the north-west and rear
of this building, and on the north-east of said road were the
houses of Thomas Dobbin, and Owen Magee; in the rear of
which was the dissolved monastery of
"
Store-house for Victuals
"
St.
Francis, then called
for the troops of this garrison.
The Wyrol Tower, seen in the ancient plan.

In a MS. account of Ulster, in the possession of
Richard Dobbs, Dean of Connor, supposed to have been
the late Rev.

copied from a
and written in 1598, is the
manuscript bearing that title in Lambeth,
" The towne walled
partly with
following notice of Carrickfergus.
There are in it two Wardes; the one
Stone, and partly with Sodds.
2
148
South-west of Castle-Worraigh was a castellated building
between those
Borlet's or Birkett's hall or castle 1
called
buildings was a straight passage eastward, and on the south of

said passage the dwellings of Thomas Whitager and John
From the latter, on the south-east side of High-street,
Dyer.
was an irregular range of castles and houses, mostly detached

from each other, and belonging to the following persons
William Dobbin's castle (then tenanted by Sir Moses Hill),
:
Thomas Dobbin, Edward Russell, Christopher Russell, Richard

Spearpoint, Phelimy Roe Magee, Thomas Stevenson, John
Savage, John Lugg, John Dalway, Thomas Dobbin, and
The latter stood on the north-east part
captain William Peirs.
"
of that ground formerly called
Lyndon's Garden," now held
by the Board of Ordnance, and occupied as a garden by the
In the letters patent of James I.
store-keeper of the garrison.
confirming the boundaries of the lands granted to this corpora2
tion, the dwelling of captain William Peirs is called a Bawn.
and is excepted from the jurisdiction of this body corporate. 3
per annum. Adjoining was the Town Guardon the ground now held by the executors of
Henry Gill, in right of a lease granted to him for ever, in
I 735On the north-west, or opposite side, same street,
commencing near Castle-Worraigh, were a similar range of
and valued
house.
at 25.
It stood
in the Castell, in the south ende of the

in the Nonth ende of the Towne."
Towne, the other
in the
Abbye,
In 1775, this building was taken down by order of the Grand

Jury of this county, for the purpose of widening the passage to the
Scotch quarter. It was then called Byrt's-barn, perhaps corrupted from
Byrket's-bawn : as, from the form and situation of the building, it had
not the least resemblance of its having been a barn.
2
Bawn, originally signified an inclosure for sheep or cattje but,
with the English settlers, a house environed by a wall or ditch, hence
"
sometimes called a fort.
In
of Ulster," taken in
Pynner's
" Survey
Stone and clay," and of others
1618-19, mention is made of Bawns of
"
merely
Clay and Straw."
3
January, 1570, the crown granted to captain William Peirs a
messuage or tenement for ever, on the east and west of her majesty's
castle, to hold by fealty
which, in 1594, he sold to John Usher.
Hence its exception from the other lands. This must be the ground
noticed above, held by the board of ordnance, and part of that on the
west of his majesty's castle.
In 1608, we find it in the possession of
Richard Newton, who sold it to John Davys, who took out a new
deed in his own name, at the annual rent of
i
6 8.
He afterwards
made a freehold of it to John Lyndon, at
12 per annum, whose son
Edward gave a deed of it for ever to the government, at the yearly
October 4th, 1739, the foundation of Officer's barrack
rent of
29.
was laid upon it, but proceeded no farther. Lodge's Collections.
Letters Patent of James I.
Gill's MSS.
1
I.
Smart
ftyn
A.VIKW EW WEST STREET, CAHHICKTEBGVS.
COURT-HOl'SE AND JAIL OF CARRICKFERGUS.
detached
follows:
castellated mansions and houses, inhabited as

Michael Newby, Nicholas Wills, Richard O'Conlin,
little
Folk
Sir
Conway,
Morgan Woods,
James
Byrt,
Anthony
Dobbin, Nicholas Dobbin, and James Savage. The latter was

the corner house towards North-street, and was sold about this
time to said Nicholas Dobbin.
A little southward from the house of James Savage, stood
1
Great-Patrick, already noticed; and a few perches distant, on

the west, the castle of Humphry Johnson. 2 The
ground north
of this building, as far as what is now called Lancaster-street,
was
at that
north
side
time called
"
North-gate,
The
"
The Raven's Acre ;
of the present
distillery
"
and from the
(now markets),
to
near
Garden-Combe."
only houses noticed at the same date in North-street

at the north-west corner of said lane,
and Back-lane, are two
fronting North-street, held by Dudley Yerworth, and James F.
Dobbin.
There were no houses from North-street to Cork-hill, then

"
Old Rampier," on which were held the fish and horse
called the
markets.
the east end of West-street, fronting the present gaol *
Carrickfergus, was the house of Thomas O'Cahan, and
On
of
contiguous, on
In the
west, the castle of Nicholas Wills.
were the houses of Clement Ford, and John
"
"
View in West-street ; that of the
Scully, seen in the annexed
latter was the chief Inn of this town.
same
its
direction
Fronting West-street, north-west corner of Cheston's lane,

or street, stood the castle of Robert Sendall; some vestiges of
which still remain. From this castle there appears to have been
only one dwelling, that of Thomas Powell, on the south side of
West-street, to the house of Sidney Russel, at the north-east
1
On removing a part of the pavement of the market-place, near
the south end of North-street, in September, 1818, a square foundation
was discovered, believed to have been the base of Great-Patrick.
2
A part of this castle (massy vaults), were standing within memory,
and was then called O'Neill's castle, and said to have been once the
residence of the potent O'Neill's of North Clandeboy. It is certain that
this family had possession here.
So late as the i3th Charles II. we
find Sir Henry O'Neill letting off a tenement in this town, for 95
MSS.
to John Davys, of Carrickfergus.
[*This castle was situated a little above the Y.M.C.A. Buildings,
nearer the churchyard gate.]
[* This gaol was removed in 1827.]
years,
'52
1
corner of Cranagh-Bawn, or Essex- street.

The houses on the
opposite side of West-street, were those of Dermot Haynes,
then
called
Plunkett,
the
Thomas
"
swan" William
Butcher,
Peirson, and Robert
Wills.
or
Butler,
The
last
John
of these
extended to the stream that now crosses West-street, coming

from a passage or entrance to the church, which was soon after
"
Pendleton's-hole.''
East of said stream were the houses
of William Jordan, Thos. Witter, and Richard Witter; the
house of the latter was soon after sold to Richard Horsman.
called
At the south end of Essex-street, on that ground now held

by the trustees of the charity of Henry Gill, stood the castle
of Patrick Savage.
Eastward was a narrow way called
on
the north side of which were the
Washingstone-lane,
dwellings of Robert Lyndon, Henry Ockford, and William
Wishart.
Nearly opposite the Custom-house, was a castle then

by Robert Sendell ; the ground north, as far as his
castle, West-street, was held by him, but it does not appear that
it contained
any houses. The only tenements mentioned on the
opposite, or east side of Cheston's-lane, were those of
Thomas
and
At
the south end
O'Cahan,
Lugg,
James Savage.
of said lane, fronting Castle-street, was the house of Richard
held
Newton
commonly
and adjoining, on
called
its east,
Castle-Moyle,
the castle of Charles Wills,

Newcastle.
Where the
or
south end of the old prison of this county now stands [stood] was
the castle of James Russel; and near it, on the south, the
houses of Michael White and Bryan M'Manus.
The entrance
into the king's castle appears to have been nearly as at present,
defended by two towers or half-moons.
Neither Irish nor Scotch quarters are noticed at this period ;

but some plots of ground appear to have been laid out in them,
In the
mostly called by the names of their respective owners.
former are noticed Wills's Park, Barley-hill, the Scribe's Garden,

and in the latter Lang's garden, Duff's garden, Gillans'
No
acres, Millmount acre, Crooked garden, and Wheat garden.
&c.,
houses, bawns, or castles, are noticed in the county at this period.
Crannagh-Bawn,
name from
i.e.,
the castellated
of said street.
There was
within these few years.
the
Wood
mansion
Fort,
is
alleged to have taken
of Patrick Savage, at the south

a double row of venerable elms near it,
its
end
till
'53
Such appears
to
have been the
state
of the town and
1
suburbs, at the commencement of the i7th century, immediately
after which it rapidly increased both in size and trade.
By a
"
return of the amount of
Customs of Prohibited Goods, and
the Three pence per pound for other goods, due by Common
Law," for seven years prior to 1609, it appears to have been
the third port in Ireland for trade, being only exceeded by
Dublin and Waterford. 2 The advancement of the place was
a great degree to the attentions of Sir Arthur

Chichester, then lord deputy ; who, having obtained large grants
of land from this corporation, not only got the walls of the
owing in
town completed, but an ample confirmation of their chartered

privileges by James I.
Amongst these privileges the chief was,
the third part of all customs of goods imported or exported,
between Fair- forelands, alias F airhead, county Antrim, and
3
Beerlooms, alias Beerhouse, county of Down. All persons were
from
the
prohibited
importation of any merchandise within this
space, save at the quay of Carrickfergus (Belfast, Bangor, and
Olderfleet excepted), under pain of forfeiture of the goods to
the corporation. 4
This corporation, however, also received the
third part of the customs of the ports excepted as above.
March
third
find
off
the
we
the
12, 1634,
part of
corporation letting
the customs of Bangor and Donaghadee to Thomas Whitager,

5
alderman, for 21 years, at the annual rent* of ,20.
Those valuable immunities, and the patronage of the lord

deputy, presented an ample field for English adventurers, and,
between 1602 and 1612, many settlers arrived here from
Devonshire, at the request, or under the protection of Sir
Records of Carrickfergus. An ancient plan of Carrickfergus.

Cox's History of Ireland. It must, however, have been of considerable commercial importance prior to the above time.
Harris, in
1
his History of the
place of trade in
Hollinshed, in his
of Ireland." The
from the amount
the total sum was
of Down, informs us that it was the principal

and
Ulster, before the reign of Queen Elizabeth
" haven-towns
Chronicle, ranks it amongst the chief
low state of commerce, at the above time, is evident
of the customs for the seven years just alluded to :
only ^399 6 7 Cox's History of Ireland.
County
3
Beerlooms, at Cloughan bay, opposite to which are the North and
South Rocks, near Portaferry. Gill's MSS.
*
Charter of James I.
[* In
two payments
Nicholas's Church.
5
if
lawfully
demanded
Records of Carrickfergus.]
at
the
porch
of
St.
154
Arthur. 1
Between those times we find persons of the following

surnames receiving grants of lands and tenements from this
corporation.
They probably arrived as above, as such names
are
not previously noticed in the records:

Ellis,
Davy's,
Cooper, Gale, Hillman, Harper, Hooper, Lang, Bowman, Parks,
Clark,
Markham, Tomson, Cuppach, Wilkison, Hodgson,
Balf, Mathews, Liddel, Gravott, Bashford,
Vaughan, Langford, Bole, Gibson, Murdeck,
Several families, evidently Irish,
M'Farrell, and Adraine.
also settled here about the same time, some of whom are
noticed as from Drogheda
O'Kane, O'Kelly, M'Carne, Taaffe,
and Fitzsimmons. 2 Those persons immediately began to erect
Humpston,
Story,
Kilnpatrick,
In granting plots for building in the town, the persons

"
"
are usually bound to build in the
of brick
English manner,"
and lime, or stone and lime, or of Cadge-Work, well Tiled or
houses.
Slated, with handsome Lights, well Glazd," and always bound to

3
keep the street opposite in repair.
In 1606, Sir Hercules Langford began to erect an elegant
mansion on that ground now occupied by part of the present
Market-house (now Petty Sessions Court House and Town
On the family of the Langfords ceasing to reside in
Hall).
this building became the property of John
4
Davy's, and was afterwards called Davy's's Castle.
About the latter end of 1606, and in the three following
years, Sir Arthur Chichester purchased several lots of ground
Carrickfergus,
on the
east of Castle Worraigh,
Hart,
Thomas
Stevenson,
from Thomas Whitager, Carew
Owen Magee, and William Dobbin.
At the same time he
also obtained a grant of the ruined abbey

Francis adjoining, and in 1610, he began to erect a
magnificent building on those grounds, the north part of which
of
St.
was
built
on the south end of said abbey.
This mansion was
called Joymount, in honour of Sir Arthur's late patron, Lord

Mount joy, and was not finished till 1618, as appeared from that
date over the great entrance on the south
east.
The
oral
Dubourdieu's Statistical Survey of the County of Antrim.

4
Gill's MSS.
October 14, 1754, this castle began to be taken
down by order of Charles Davy's, Esq., and its oak timber was taken
2
3
to Dubfin.
Gill's
MSS.
must have been a very large building
the late E. D. Wilson,

Esq., informed the writer, that he recollected 17 families dwelling in it.
5
Records of Carrickfergus. Tradition of old inhabitants.
It
155
history of this place says, that
it was built
by the celebrated
and
was
a
Inigo Jones,
large building, 112 feet in front, with
two wings extending northward, the same length, having 365
In front of the chief
windows, 52 doors, and 12 chimnies.
entrance was a gate-house with lofty turrets, between which and
the main building was a court, from whence was an ascent of a
few steps to a fine terrace that extended the entire length of
the front, in the centre of which was the hall-door.
The
following
account
of
is given by an anonymous
here in 1634.
"The only grace
the lord Chichester's house, which is a
Joymount
who landed
English traveller,
(says he) of this town
is
very stately house, or rather like a prince's palace; whereunto

there belongs a stately gate-house and graceful terrace, and
walks before the house, as att Denton, my lord Fairfax' house.
very fine hall there is, and a stately staircase, and fair
fine gardens,
dining-room, carrying the proportion of the hall
:
and mighty spacious orchards, and they say they have good
*
fruite."
Some difference taking place between the
noble family of Chichester and the inhabitants, the family
ceased to reside here about 1724, from which time the building
was suffered to go to ruin. In the latter end of 1768, it began
store of
to be taken
down, and
its
oak timber was divided amongst
who were
attached to the interests of the family ; but its

marble chimney pieces, and the like valuable articles, were
those
taken to Fisherwick * Lodge, Staffordshire. 2
Anthologia Hibernica. We believe the gentleman who gave the

above account was called Egerton,* and that his MS., from which it
is taken, is at this time in the possession of Sir William Betham.
By
letters patent, 2Oth Charles I., Joymount was erected into a manor,
leave
and
and Ballynafeigh, county of Down, attached to said manor,
granted to hold a court every three weeks for the recovery of small
It was, however, found
debts, a seneschal to preside in said court.
at length
very inconvenient to have Ballynafeigh annexed and it was
dated the
separated from Joymount, by letters patent of Charles II.,
2ist of his reign. 'Gran ts of Charles I. and II. to the Chichester family.
[* Sir William Brereton, not Egerton.]
The manor of Joymount, however, continued long after. In a lease
of a tenement on the south side of High-street, from the Earl of
Cunningham, dated Nov. 14, 1770,
Donegall to the late Mr. William
" And also
is the following clause
Rendering and Performing the
usual Suit and Service, at the Court-Leet, and Courts-Baron, to be
1
held within the
manor
of
Joymount."
Court-Baron was a court which every lord of a manor held with

his own precints, in which grants of land were made, and surrenders
accepted, &c.
the lam
[*It is said that the Chichester family exchanged
Staffordshire,
belonging to the Monastery of Massareene for Fisherwick,
which had been the origi'nal seat of the Skeffington family.]
2
Tradition of old inhabitants. Gill's MSS.
'56
The following account of the ancient state of the town,

"
Travels of
Joymount, and King's Castle, is taken from the
Mori. Jorevin de Rochford" published at Paris, in 1672, who
"
visited the town in 1666:
Knockfergus is a strong town,
and one of the most ancient in the kingdom it is situated,
as it were, at one of the ends of the Island, at the entry of
:
a gut environed by mountains, whereby it is sheltered from the

winds ; having, besides, a port, enclosed by a great mole, but
with large flints, composing a large quay, in the form of a
semicircular,
of vessels.
by the side of which there are always a number

entrance is defended by a large castle, on the
The
upon a rock, that renders it difficult to be

There are garrisons in both town and castle ; as there
I was well entertained,
are in all the strong places in Ireland.
both in fish and flesh, for a shilling a day.
They took me
into the great castle, which is enclosed by very thick walls,
and defended by round towers placed all about it, having in
the middle a large keep, or donjon, over whose gate are many
pieces of cannon; these command the city, and also the port.
About a month before my arrival, the garrison was in arms
he being informed
against the Viceroy, who had not paid them
of this, equipped six large ships of war. and 3.000 land forces,
It resisted three months,
with which he besieged this castle.
Avithout the guns being able to do anything ; but the provisions
and ammunition failing, they were obliged to make conditions
with the Viceroy, who caused five or six of the most guilty
leaders to be punished.
At the distance of about 100 paces,
in the city, near the sea side, are still to be seen some old
towers of an ancient castle.
Another day, I went to see the
it is a
at
the ends of the town,
which
is
one
of
great Palace,
as
as
windows
I
think,
great square pavilion, having,
many
there are days in the year ; the top is turreted, and defended
with balustrades
the entry is handsome.
You first come into
sea-shore, elevated
scaled.
the outer great court,

having a gallery over
surrounded with the
officer's
lodgings,
from whence there is a view of the

sea, and all over the town ; then you advance to a draw-bridge,
between the little turrets, which accompany a small pavilion
rising over the gate of the draw-bridge ; this leads from the
Its
first to the second court,
and faces the grand edifice.
staircase is admirable; and its gate or door much more so,
on account of many pieces of sculpture and engraving with
it,
157
which it is ornamented.
The town has, properly, but two
in the largest, there is a
principal streets
market-place ; where
is also a town-hall and
parade: a small river runs through the
:
middle of
it,
and empties
itself at the port.''
The
following account of Carrickfergus and Belfast, will,

probably, be interesting to the reader: it is extracted from
William Sachervell's " Voyage to I-Columb-Kill" in

June,
1688; and published in London, in 1702. By contrary winds,
the vessel was obliged to take shelter in Larne
Lough. The
author then proceeds
"
blew very hard for a whole week
;
during which time,
took the opportunity of visiting Car rick-Fergus and Bell-Fast;
two considerable towns in the North of Ireland. The first very
It
and the capital of the County of Antrim, but of little

and ruinous. The only considerable things in it, are the
ancient,
trade,
Earl of Dunagairs house, a noble building; a monument to

Lord Chichester, in the Church, with the statues of himself,
lady, brother, and children, with columns, and an inscription,
which are very fine in their kind. He was Lord Lieutenant of
the
King James the First's time; and his Lady daughter

famous Sir John Ferret, who had some years before been
Ireland, in
to the
his predecessor.
The
chancel has been the burying-place of the
O'Neills, kings of Ulster; and was almost filled with banners

of that ancient family. Fergus's castle is an old building, but
still firm and entire.
The tower is lofty, and, at present, a
to
The town is walled round,
this
Ireland.
of
magazine
part
and has constantly a garrison in it. At the foot of the castle

is the rock on which Fergus was shipwrecked, after he had so
gloriously restored, if not planted, the Scottish Nation in the
North parts of Britain. I found the Earl of Dtmagall in town ;
he received me with all the fondness and humanity that could

He invited me to Bell-Fast,
be expected from a great man.
whither he was going, with the Earl Orrery, and Lord
Dungannon. Bell-Fast is the second town in Ireland, well-built,
The quantity of butter and
full of people, and of great trade.
sends, into foreign parts, is almost increditable.
have seen the barrels piled up in the very streets. The new
the present
Pottery is a pretty curiosity, set up by Mr. Smith,
a man of great
his
and
Leathy,*
Capt.
predecessor,
Sovereign,
beef which
it
*This author
occasion,
relates, that
ship-wrecked on the
one
Captain Leathy, of Belfast, was, on
Isle of Man, where he lost 13 of the
'58
ingenuity.
is
house,
The castle, so they call the Earl of DunagaUs

not of the newest model; but the gardens are very
spacious,
fish-ponds,
with great variety of walks, both close and open ;

groves ; and the irregularity itself, was, I think,
no small addition to the beauty of the place. I stayed in the

town two nights, and then returned to the Yacht."
The quay, that had formerly been of wood, 1 began to be
made of stone about 1627, and cost ^1,100, besides much
2
labour not charged by the inhabitants, for their men and horses,
Houses also began to be erected in the Irish and Scotch
quarters, which at this time were merely called the East and
West Suburbs. About the same period we find the following
additional names of persons noticed in the records as inhabitants
of this town, most of whom were tenants of this corporation.
From their names, we conjecture the persons came from
England immediately
Walsh,
Hall,
after those lately mentioned
Horseman,
Penry, Smyth, Pike, Cathcart, Cunny,

Willoughby, Taylor, Burnes, Redworth, Williams, Edgar, Joy,
Hynes, Mason, Richison, Warton, Orpin, Pendleton, Turner,
Roy,
Bulworthy, Tennison, Ashworth, Duff, Hinch, Addison, Tracy,
and Butler.
Those
contributed
which appear to
privileges
to the advancement of the town,
commercial
so
much
have
were
however soon relinquished by the corporation in the following

manner
On the arrival of the Earl of Strafford in this
kingdom, as chief governor, his great object appears to have
been an improvement of the national revenue, by consolidating
all the customs of the realm, whether granted to corporations or
:
and that he was told by the people, when he came on shore,

that he had lost that number of men, for they had seen so many lights
towards
the Church.
going
Afterwards, there is a long story of the
singular pranks of the Manx fairies, on James II. going to Ireland.
The author had been, for some years, Governor of the Isle of Man.
1
In the Records, under the date of
"
1575, we find the following notice
Aprile, In this Courte was
Michael Savidg for breaking downe of the Timber of the Peere &
"
occupying it to his owne use fyned at 20 Sh. Sterg.
[About 1776 the Earl of Donegal! gave the site of this mansion
of Joymount to complete the plot of ground for the County Antrim
Courthouse and Jail, now headquarters of the Antrim Royal Garrison
In the Mureum of the Union Hall,
Militia and ordnance stores.
which was burned in 1907, was a pillar out of Joymount, presented
by the late Mr. James Stannus.l
crew
Gill's
MSS.
'59
1
individuals.
This he deemed the most ample way of relieving
the pressing necessities of the crown; and early in 1637, we
find the earl writing to John Coke, secretary to his
Majesty, as
"
There is also a grant forth of the customs of
follows
:
Farm to that Corporation, which may be

worth some three hundred pounds a year more, which the
Committee of Revenue here desire may be brought back to the
Crown, I crave his majesty's direction we will have it well
worth the money." The secretary, in his reply, dated September
"
For the Grant of the Customs of
5th of the same year, says,
Carrickfergus, in Fee
Carrickfergus, his majesty concurreth with the Committee of

to have it
and requireth you and them to proceed
Revenue
therein."
The
treaty, or sale, for the surrender of the third
part of the customs, appears to have been concluded prior to

the date of this last letter, for ,3,000, which was to have been
laid out in the purchase of lands for the use of this corporation ;
but no lands were purchased.
The trustees in this transaction
were Arthur Chichester, Arthur Hill, and Arthur Lyndon. 3 For
Appendix, No. 10. ,1,300 of this money were

John Davy's, of Carrickfergus ; but we have
not learned how the other sum was disposed of. The rebellion
of 1641-2 prevented any settlement or inquiry being made
this treaty, see
on
lent
interest to
When John Davy's

respecting this money for several years.
was called to account by this corporation, respecting said money,
he brought them in one shilling in debt. 4 June 24th, 1659, we
find the resident burgesses and freemen presenting a long list
of grievances to the Assembly, in which they notice this money,
and declare, " that neither stock nor interest had been paid by
"
eminent men had gayned & purchased to themany," while
selves vast Estates, and the poore Sort Scarce able to feede or
5
As the records take no
maintaine their famalies with foode."
farther notice of this business,
no
it is
likely the complaints received
redress.
On
1
2
3
4
5
the
above surrender of the customs,* Carrickfergus

Straff ord's Letters.
Gill's
MSS.
1,300 out of the
[*In 1616 Sir James Hamilton was granted
rent of the customs of Ireland, in consideration of the surrender of
the customs in the ports of Lough Coyne and Bay of Knockfergus.
Theobalds.
Calendar of State Papers (Carew), p. 128.]
i6o
declined in trade, the stones of the quay were suffered to be
away by vessels, and some of the merchants who had
carried
been settled here removed to Belfast, 1 which had now become

the chief place for the receipt of the customs. The following is
a correct return of the amount of the customs of Carrickfergus,
in the
annexed years
1803
1805
1807
1810
1812
1816
10
9
308
472
307
413
629
409
518
1819
1820
This sum is nearly
annual salaries of the
near
401 12
i
10
18 io
10
17
ii
62
5^
from the duty on coals. The

of the port (1820) amount to
all raised
officers
1,000.
In
our
records
we
find
the
following,
respecting
the
improvements of this town, signed by the initials of the name

"
of the then mayor, Richard Dobbs
1671, 1672, mem. that
in the years of My mayorality, the way out of the north street
:
was first paved; the wall that brings the

water through the church-yard was built at the town charge;
the town pump was set up by Benevolence; The Sword and
Standard in the Church new furbinshed; and money ordered
to the church-yard
for re-casting the Bell."
Before proceeding to the modern state of the town, we

some account of the former religious foundations
return to give
of the place;
and of the military force of the garrison
at
different periods.
In 1232, a monastery of Franciscan, or Grey Friars, was

founded here ; but it is rather uncertain who was the founder,
though the merit is commonly ascribed to Hugh De Lacy, Earl

of Ulster. 3 1243, The Earl of Ulster, Gerald Fitz-Maurice and
1
Gill's
MSS.
Return of Customs, from Surveyor's Books*

In
1667 the customs of the port amounted to
[* In
3,065.
1833 the last officer of the customs was withdrawn, there being no
port duties to collect.]
3
Archdall's Monasticon.
Ware's Antiquities.
Though we are
without any record of religious houses being here before the above time,
" W.
as
must
have
been
of
there
such,
prior
yet
Cragfergus," is a
subscribing witness to a charter granted by Sir John De Courcy, to the
Richard
De
interred
in
Burgo, "ended the way of all

1408, Hugh
monastery.
this
and were
flesh,"
Mac Adam Mac
who was never christened, and hence

was called Corbi" and who had " caused Forty Churches to
Gilmore, an Irish robber,

"
be destroyed," took refuge in an oratory of this abbey, where

he was slain by some of the family of Savage. Mac Gilrnore
had previously murdered " Patrick Savage, a Gentleman of great

Esteem in Ulster," and also his brother Richard, although he
had received 2,000 marks for their ransom. It is stated that
Mac Gilmore had before robbed the windows of this oratory of
their iron bars, through which his enemies entered when they
slew him.
1497, Neile McCaine O'Neill reformed this friary
to the order of the
was
strict
observance." *
1510, This monastery

was held
in such repute, that a general chapter of the order
in it-i
with
for
"
its
After the suppression of monastic houses, this building,

appurtenances, six acres of land, adjoining, remained
some years
in the possession of the crown,
Edward VI. in 1552, to Hugh Mac

In 1592, we find this corporation
abbey and
its
till
granted by
Neill Oge, of Clandeboy. 2

granting a lease of the
lands to Christopher Carleisle, governor of this
A plot of ground
town, and seneschal of the Clandeboys.
for the purpose
same
was
to
also
time,
him,
adjacent
granted
of erecting a corn-mill for the whole he was to pay ten shillings
:
This deed expresses, that said abbey (then called the

Palace *), was in the possession of Carleisle, and that some of
"
Four of
its turrets were
fallen, damaged, and ruineated."
the witnesses make their mark, one of whom is Alexander
yearly.
abbey of Cannons Regular, Downpatrick, about A.D. 1183. Archdall's

Monasticon.
Annals of the Four Masters
[* The event is thus entered in the
:
" The
monastry of the Friars in Carrickfergus was obtained for the
Friars Minor de Observantia by Rescript from Rome, at the instance
of Niall, the son of Con,son of Hugh Boy O'Neill, and sixteen
brothers of the convent of Donegall took possession of it, on the vigil
the first festival of the B.V. Mary in autumn, having obtained
authority for that purpose."]
1
Cox s History
Marleburrough's Chronicle. Archdall's Monasticon.
of Ireland.
2
Ware's Annals. Archdall's Monasticon.
[*See article by \\'m. Pinkerton in Ulster Journal of Archeology.
In it two engravings are given, one is from the Cottonian
Vol. xii.
about the year 1540, and the other dated 1610.
of
collection,
constable
fames I. on the 4th September. John Dalway was appointed
a salary of four
Abbev, then called the "Kine's Palace," with
a
8d.
at
day each.
under him 20 wards,
shillings a day, and he had
s reign,
Its last constable was George Woods, who, in that monarch
a sum for the loss of that office, which was abolished.)
was
of the
granted
12
162
Haynes,
sheriff.
Soon after
lands in possession of Sir
them to
Sir
this,
we
find this
abbey and
its
Edmond
Arthur Chichester. 2
Fitzgerald, who assigned

About the same time it was
its lands
granted by the crown to Sir Charles Wilmot, Knt.
are then called four acres, with mills adjoining. 3 It is, however,
believed to have been still retained by Sir Arthur Chichester, as
:
he soon after obtained a grant in his own name from James I.*
Oral tradition states, that when the monks * were obliged to go
hence, they fervently prayed that the place might be ever after
the habitation of thieves.
If such was their prayer, it has of
late years
been granted in a very remarkable manner

the present county of Antrim gaol.*
as
on
its
site is built
About half a mile west of the town of Carrickfergus, on

the west bank of the river of Woodburne, is the site of the
priory of Goodborn, or Woodborn. This building was dedicated
to the
Holy
Cross,
burgh, in Scotland
Druin la croin*
1
and was a daughter of the abbey of Dryand it is also supposed to have been called
The monks were Premonstratenses, white
Archdall's Monasticon.
'Lodge's Collections.
Grants igth James I. to Sir Arthur Chichester.
were expelled, the
Elizabeth's
the
religions
[* During
reign
government seized on all the sacred properties of the convent, and
five of the friars were cast into prison.
Though the Franciscans were
expelled according to law from their ancient monastry, yet they
continued till 1870 to appoint monastic officials to preside over their
" Conventus De
Carrickfergus." O'Laverty's Down and Connor.]
4
[*
*
Removed
in
1896.]
ArchdalPs Monasticon.
Abbey.
Tradition says
[* The site of the Church of

from the Scotch Quarter Quay.
were being sunk to convey brine
St.
Mary
it
is
was
also called
Mary's
supposed to be not far
About ten years ago, when pipes
to the salt works, the workmen cut

through a graveyard near the land end of that quay, and it has been
stated that high tides expose human bones under the gardens at that
In the Calendar of -Documents, Ireland, p. 186,
end of the town.
about the year 1224, Reginald, Bishop of Connor, in a letter to the
" The House of St.
states
Mary's of Carrickfergus, endowed
King,
by John De Courcy to the use of the Canons of the Premonstratentian
Order, is by extortion and malice reduced to such poverty that it can
now with difficulty maintain three canons. Andvenus Bruis, clerk,
abusing the kingly dignity, has taken violent possession of the
Church of St. Nicholas of Carrickfergus, and other churches conferred
on the canons by the said John, and confirmed by the Pope, the
and the canons will be deprived of the
Metropolitan and the Bishop
Wherefore the Bishop
on them.
right unless the king takes pity
to be restored.
implores the King to cause what has been substracted
The King's enemies had despoiled the Abbot of all the moveables of
to
the
adhered
his house, because he had faithfully
King in the war,
and placed such stores as he could in the Castle of Carrickfergus.
Royal Letters No. 799.]
;
The founder of
canons.
but
who
this priory is not

positively known,
believed to have been some of the Bissets, a family
is
it
63
from Scotland about A.D. 1242, for the murder of

In the reign of Henry III. Allan de
Galvia, Duncan de Carrig, and the Bissets, were granted lands
In 1326,
here, some of whom were probably the founders.
friar Roger Outlaw, prior of Kilmainham, and lord chancellor
of Ireland, granted a lease of certain lands to Longadel Manster,
and dates the grant, " Apud abbatiam de Woodeborne" l
fled
Patrick, Earl of Athol.
By
a report made February
ist,
1540, the annual value of
March ist, 1542,

shillings.
Gilbreath M'Cowragh, the last abbot, resigned the priory into
the hands of the king's commissioners, and retired to Island
this priory, besides reprises,
Magee.
The abbot was
was ten
then seized of a certain parcel of land
"
lying about the priory,

containing by estimation fifteen acres,
"
and the tythes of said parcell of land ; 3 the rectory of Entroia,
or Antrim, with a cartron of land 4 adjoining, and the tythes

of sixteen townlands near the same; also the tythes of the like
number of townlands in the Reuts, belonging to the rectory of
Killaloy, alias Killalog (Killdallog) ; likewise the rectory of
Cnolille and Carnmoney, in the same county, and the tythes of
two townlands in Island Magee, called Ballyprior magna and
"
Capella de Dounemale," alias
Ballyprior -parva* and the
Clundumales, with fifteen acres of land near the same.*
For some years after the dissolution of this priory, it was,
with lands adjoining, held by the crown, on which lands were
grazed the horses belonging to the troops of this garrison.
In
1596, we find the corporation requesting the lord deputy, that

said lands might be passed to them by the government; but it
7
appear that their request was complied with.
his
in
here
was
held
an
12, James I.,
inquisition
Majesty's castle, by virtue of a commission from the court of
Exchequer, before Sir Roger Langford and Sir Thomas Hibbots,
A jury
to inquire into the right of the crown to certain lands.
Neal
M'Dormach
foreman,
O'Neill,
they found,
being sworn,
does
not
November
Archdall's
Archdall's
Grants of
4
A cartron
*
Archdall's
'Terrier of
s
'
Monasticon.
Monasticon.
MSS.
igth James I. to Sir Arthur Chichester.

of land contains 60 acres.
Monasticon.
1604.
MSS.
164
"
that in the 34th Henry VIII., the monks had all

voluntarily
quitted said abbey," and they had all since died in Island
1
This priory, with the lands encompassing
Magee.
it,
were
soon after granted by James I. to Sir Arthur Chichester: 2 they

are still free of tythe. 3
From vestiges that remained within
*
memory, the priory appeared to have been extensive, and of a
square form; some traces of mills, that were attached, are still
to be seen.
In a Terrier, of 1604, preserved in the archives of the

Down and Connor, we find this priory afterwards
"
giving name to a rural deanery, by the title of the
Deanry of
attached
of
to
which
were
Vodburne," (Woodburn)
Maglennie
bishoprics of
Ecclesia de Entroia,
following churches and chapels
Ecclesia de Sthilowden, Ecclesia de Dunegure, Monasterium de
Muckamore, Ecclesia de Ballymartin, Ecclesia de Ballywalter,
the
Capella
Carmigrame,
Duach,
Ecclesia
Ecclesia
de
de
Rasie,
Capella
de
Ballenalinnie,
Ecclesia
de
Ballyrobart, Capella de
Ecclesia de Killebride,
Ballichor,
and
Ecclesia
de
of them the dean paid ecclesiastical dues to

the bishop.
By a return from the sees of Down and Connor,
presented to his Majesty's commissioners at Dublin, July i,
"
is noticed as charged with
1622, the "Abbac de Woodburne
Ballinure.
For
all
"
procurations
2,
upon impropriate,"
to the bishop.
Adjoining the east suburb of the town is the site of the

hospital of St. Bridget, an ancient monastic foundation, said
to have been for the reception of lepers. 4
Some remains of
the chapel attached to this hospital remained within the last
forty years, and persons were interred in it within memory. The
1
Records Rolls Office, Dublin.

Grants of James I. to Sir Arthur Chichester.
in 1822, by the rector, to subject these
lands to the payment of tythes, but it failed
Sir Arthur, in his grant
from the crown, having been also granted the tythes, and those of
2
An attempt was made,
lands adjoining, included in the same grant.

[*Traces of the foundation are still to be seen, and a few years
ago a number of the carved stones of the buildings were turned up
Some of these are at the Mount, the
during agricultural operations.
residence of the late James Smily, and four at the Church of St.
It is stated that the houses in the Irish Quarter were
Nicholas.
built with the stones from its ruins.]
4
Tradition of Old Inhabitants.
Leprosy was formerly common in
this kingdom, owing to the people living so much on flesh, particularly
swine's, and their neglecting to deprive it of its crude juices.
Numerous leper houses were erected throughout this kingdom.
" Natural
Ledwich's Antiquities. Dr. Boate, in his
History of Ireland,"
says, leprosy arose from the people eating salmon when out of season.
lands adjoining are
called the Spittal
still
this year [1823] free of

tythe.
There
is
Parks* and were till

no record when this
was founded, or by whom. In the 36th of the

reign of
Elizabeth, this hospital and the lands attached, were
granted by the crown to Richard Harding, for 30 years. They
hospital
Queen
were afterwards granted by James I. to Sir Folk

Conway, at the
yearly rent of thirteen shillings and four pence. He soon after
assigned them to Sir A. Chichester, who obtained a new grant
from James
I.
at
the annual rent of eight shillings and ten

1
Some silver coins have been found
pence halfpenny farthing.

here of Edward III.
little
to Gleno,
is
north of the town, on the east of the road leading

a well, neatly enclosed with cut stone, now called
Here formerly stood an hospital dedicated to

"
Bride, called the
Spittal House," which was granted same
time as St. Bridget's hospital, to Richard Harding, for a like
term of years.
In the deed to Harding, it is called " parcell
the Bride-well.
St.
antique hereditament,"
and
chiefly
consisted of a small
plot
"The
2
All records or traditions of this
Fryar's Garden.
are
silent
the
place
hospital, which was probably
respecting
attached to some large religious house; hence the silence
called
The lands in which this well is situated are the

regarding it.
property of the Marquis of Donegall [now Lord Shaftesbury],
and until this year were free of tythe; but a modus had been
till
lately paid for
On
them
to the rector
by the marquis.
Commons,* Middle Division, is a

na Brathair, i.e. the Rock of the Friar, where
the
place called Craig

are some traces of
small circular buildings, perhaps the vestiges of monastic cells.

About two miles N.W. of the town, same division, are some
ruins of two ancient churches, one of which is called Killyann,
Of the former of
Anne's church; the other Carnrawsy.
Terrier alluded
the
In
whatever.
learn
these we can
nothing
"
Eeclesia de Rasie, hath
to, of 1604, we find the latter, called
i.e.
seem to have been connected

[* Spittal Parks and Spittal House
with the same religious house.
They may have derived their name
from having been the property of the Order of St. John of Jerusalem,
who were called Hospitallers.]

MSS. Grants of James I. to Sir Arthur
2
MSS. of the late Dean Dobbs. Records
1
[*It is said that mass

time of persecution.]
the
[* 1827, in October,
wer- taken down by

Burleigh Hill.]
J.
was
Chichester.
of Carrickfergus.
celebrated here by friars during the
ruins of the ancient church of Carnrasey

Robinson, nephew of the late \Vm. Burleigh,
66
some Orchards," and then held by a Mr. Opinshrall (believed

to be Opinshaw).
there stated to be part of the rural
It is
deanery of Magheramorne, and paying in ecclesiastical dues to
Some
Henry V.
the bishop, proxies 205., refections 205., and synodals

silver coins were found near it a few years ago, of
25.
The
those of the former were coined at Calais.
its
West
of
the
ruin
now
of
is
notice,
only part
deserving
end, consisting of two parallel walls, seventeen inches asunder,
which probably once served to support a kind of steeple; such
and VII.
walls being sometimes attached,

reared in the i2th century. 1
for that purpose, to chapels
At the Stony-glen, Knockogh, were within memory some

"
"
ruins of a religious cell, called
a large
the Priest's House
gold ring was found at it a few years ago, on the inside of
:
which
is
a cross, with the inscription,
"
I love
God."
From
Carrickfergus becoming early the chief fortress of

the English in Ulster, the military force kept up was usually
considerable.
The following lists of corps and commanders are
given by Fynes Moryson, in the annexed years
Chichester commanding
Sir Arthur
1599 Horse commanded by Neal M'Hugh

Foot
Sir Arthur Chichester
Sir Richard Peircy
.
60 1 Horse
Foot
Foot
<
Ditto
Sir Francis
Captain John Jephson

Sir Fulke Conway
Captain Egerton
Captain Norton
Captain Billings
Captain Phillips
1603 Horse
Foot
Captain Eington
Captain Norton
30
200
100
100
100
25
100
200
150
100
100
100
100
35
200
Conway
150
Captain Roger Langford TOO
Captain Thomas Billings 100
Captain Henry Sackford 100
i6 7
In 1740, the garrison consisted of
five
companies of
foot,
and two troops of horse. 1 The barracks for the horse were
the west end of the Irish quarter, the foot were quartered
at
in
the castle.
The town
of Carrickfergus, at present, has a
much
better
appearance than at any former period, and extends along the

northern shore of that bay to which it gives name, nearly a mile.
Within the walls the streets are generally narrow, and are
called
the
by
following
names
West-street,
North-street,
Essex-street,
Lancaster-street,
Castle-street,
High-street,
2
or
Butcher-row,
Cheston's-street,
Antrim-street,
alias
Gaol-lane,*
Church-lane, Back-lane,* Governor's-place, and Joymount-court.

The houses are built either of stone or brick, mostly of the
former, and
commonly
slated
many of
the best houses have
few still present an

antique appearance: the greater part of these are built in
"
"
frames of oak, in that manner formerly called
Cadge-work ;
been built within the
last thirty years.
some of them had
originally
feet into the adjoining street.
windows that projected
several
That part of the town lying without the walls is called

the Irish and Scotch quarters. The latter is on the east of the
town, and its streets and rows are distinguished by the following
names:
Joymount-bank, Scotch-quarter, and the Green,
alias
Green-street.
This quarter takes its name from a colony of fishers who

from Argyle and Gallowayshire, chiefly during the
arrived
persecution in Scotland, about
1665;*
their
descendants
still
It is believed that the Irish quarter

retain their original calling.
had its origin soon after. In November, 1678, we find the Duke
of Ormond, then lord lieutenant of Ireland, and council, by

their
ordering all Roman Catholics to remove
proclamation,
'Gill's
MSS.
Butcher-row was the common name till lately, when its ancient
name was resumed. It appears to have been taken from the butchers
of the town, about 1670, all living in this street. Lancaster-street takes
a few years
its name from a Lancasterian school being opened in it
" the houses at the back of the church.
ago it was previously called
Was called Gaol-lane till about two years ago. It was also
from a person of that name, about
sometimes called
3
Dawson-street,
On
having built a cotton factory in it.
county of Antrim gaol.
Lancasterian Street.]
[* Now called Lower
1800,
its
east
side
is
the
without the walls of forts,
68
cities,
and corporate towns
1
;
a few
years after which we find the name Irish quarter noticed in our
The streets of this
records, instead of that of West Suburb.
quarter are called Irish quarter south and west ; their west ends
are joined by a street called Brewery-lane, or Davy's-street.
few houses a short distance from those places are dignified with
the names of Pound-lane, Tea-lane (and Sailors'-row).
In 1740, the town, within the walls, contained only 130
and in
dwelling-houses, and the quarters the like number;
the
total
the
town
and
number
of
within
1797,
dwelling-houses
suburbs was 452. By a return made to the government in 1800,

there were 477 dwelling-houses in the town and quarters, 38
inhabitants of which paid hearth and window tax. 3 May, 1811,
an account was taken of the number of houses as aforesaid,
when there were 503 houses actually inhabited, 18 of which

were licensed for the sale of spirits, and 13 for groceries. May,
1813, an account was taken by order of government, of the
number of houses, inhabitants, and the like, in the town and
suburbs ; they were found to be as follows
:
Town
Totals
Town
in
Quarters
J>
and
the]
69
170
The military quartered in the town and castle, with their

wives and children, and the persons in the county of Antrim
gaol and court-house, are included; they amounted to 346
Neither gaol, court-house, castle, nor a house occupied
persons.
in the town as a barrack, were ranked as dwelling-houses.
In forty-eight families of fishers were found
males and
no
105 females in all other parts of the town or suburbs, the

females exceeded the males.
At the east end of High-street is the county of Antrim

court-house, a neat edifice, the front of which is of cut stone,
This building was founded March i, 1779.
on
the
north, is the prison belonging to the same
Adjoining,
which
Those
county,
began to be built the preceding year.
In 1792,
buildings cost .5,785 6 4: Richard Drew, architect.
a wing was added to the south of this prison.
November 21,
1815, the first stone of a west wing was laid to this gaol, and
soon after two wings were added to the rear of the original
building. The different yards attached were also much enlarged,
and in them were built a chapel, infirmary, retiring room for
the judges, bath, gaoler's lodge, guard-room, and execution
room. 1 These additions were finished November i, 1819, and
cost near
This prison
16,000: Alexander Wilson, architect.
In
is now capable of containing, properly,
340 prisoners.
sinking the foundation of the Jail, in 1776, a bell and several
Two large
gold rings were dug up, and many human bones.
oak coffins were discovered resting on massive beams of the
same wood. Their appearance was such as to induce a belief,
that they contained the remains of some eminent persons
with balustrades.*
perhaps, those of De Lacy, Fitzmaurice, or De Burgo, already

In 1805, a cross composed of
noticed as being interred here.
in
metal
was
a
bright
dug up
garden adjoining the Jail. On
was a round space with the remains of two pins,

The
for fastening to it some stone or relique.
carvings on it were plain and neat, and exhibited a considerable
skill in workmanship.
1815, in clearing off the earth when
its
centre
probably,
Now plastered over and balustrades removed.]

October 27, 1815, an inquisition was held here, by a jury of the
county of Antrim, to ascertain the amount of the damages that the
following persons would receive by their grounds being taken for part
This jury awarded as follows
of the said improvements.
20 o o
160 o o Henry C. Ellis
Marquis of Donegall
Andrew M'Nevin
70 o 8 William & A. Cunningham 60 o o
60 o o William Cunningham, jun. 25 o o
Rev. Richard Dobbs
[*
1
about to lay the foundation of the South-east wing of this

prison, several large oak coffins were discovered of a square
form, many human bones, and a large stone cross neatly
A few years ago, a large gold ring was found by Mr.
carved.
Adam Cunningham, in a garden adjoining, on the outside of
which was engraved, " Amat diet Pater atque Princess;" i.e.
"
He
loves to be called Father
and Prince."
For some curious
information respecting the number of prisoners, and expenses

of this gaol in different years, see Appendix, No. XI.*
On the south-west of the same street are the court-house

and gaol of the county of the town of Carrickfergus, built
about 1613- x In 1727, a part of its eastern end was taken
down and rebuilt by Hugh Darnley and John Gibson. 1 The
entire building is at present in a ruinous state, and the criminals
have of late been kept in the prison of the county of Antrim 5
March, 1817, baron M'Clelland, one of the judges of assize,
refused to hold the assizes for Carrickfergus in the court-house,
it being in such a shattered condition;
since which t'me the
assizes
have been held
in the civil bill court
of the county of
Antrim court-house.
Prior to 1776, this prison and court-house belonged to the
county of Antrim ; but in this year the grand jury of that
it to those of Carrickfergus, who in return gave
Castle Worraigh, their court-house and gaol.* with the ground
county ceded
[*Sce also additional Notes.]

1841,
[Population area and number of houses from 1841 till 1901.
1881,
10,009;
1861,
1871,
9,39~;
9,379;
8,520;
9,422;
1851,
the
Act
in
Government
the
Irish
Local
County
1898,
1891, 8,923.
By
of the Town was abolished and merged into County Antrim, and the
to
its
limited
of
was, in 1901,
the
town,
boundary,
population
owing
Area, 26,097 square miles, or 16,700 acres, of which 12,483
4,208.
are arable, 3,998 uncultivated, and 129 in the town. Lough Mourne 90
Number of houses in 1871,
acres is 556 feet above high sea level.
1,738; 1881, 1,828; 1891, 2,009; I 9 OI 2 .49-]
1
In the charter granted by James I. to Carrickfergus, the loth
of his reign, ground for a gaol, about to be built for the county of
Antrim, is excepted from the jurisdiction of the corporation of Carrickfergus.
2
Gill's
MSS.
10
still kept in it, and there is a gaoler who has
for his
per annum, an inspector ^"5, and an apothecary who is paid
attendance.
4
In 1699, Charles Davy's was granted fifteen acres of land by this
On its
in repair.
corporation, free of rent, to keep Castle Worraigh
claim to its timber
being about to be taken down, E. D. Wilson laid
and other materials but the corporation, at a meeting held April 5,
to them.
They,
1775, declared, that said castle or gaol belonged
his claim, and
however, ordered, that Mr. Wilson, on relinquishing
*
Debtors are
Iff
adjoining, to the
for a
County of Antrim.
tenements
Hercules
Ellis,
at
similar
^250,
They
also bought in their
the house
of captain
purpose,
the house of the heirs of the Rev.
viz.
Philip Gayer, at
50, and a tenement claimed by the Misses
at ten guineas; by which transfers
they also lost an
Craig,
annual rent arising out of said tenements, of 35. 4d. 1 At the

same time the earl of Donegall, with his wonted liberality, gave
the site of his ruined mansion of Joymount, to
complete the
plot of ground for their intended court-house and gaol; since
which time, these grounds have been considered as part of the
county of Antrim
and the former court-house and prison of
that county, in that of Carrickfergus. 2
"
build or rebuild a new Gaol and Court60, to assist to

paying
house," should have a deed for ever of the lands he then held, for
These are the
keeping this building in repair, which he accepted.
lands on the left of the road leading to Belfast, called Ballynascreen.
1
2
Previous to these arrangements, an attempt had been made to
get the courts of assizes removed to Antrim we shall

notice it, and several like trials at different times.
judges of assize, without any leave or instructions from
to that effect, resolved to hold the courts of assize
therefore briefly
July, 1613, the
the government
at the town of
Antrim.
The corporation presenting a memorial on this subject to
Sir Arthur Chichester, then lord deputy, he strictly commanded the
judges, then at Downpatrick, to hold the assizes at the usual place,
which was accordingly done.

1707, Sir Robert Adair, of Ballymena, petitioned her majesty queen
Anne, to remove the county of Antrim assizes, sessions, and diocesan
Her majesty referred his petition to the chief
school, to Ballymena.
governor of this kingdom, who referred it to the judges of assize upon
which a suit commenced between the parties. Henry Davy's, mayor,
The
took defence for the corporation, and Sir Robert was defeated.
the mayor
expense of this suit cost the corporation ^159 13 85
160 for his trouble, but the corporation refused to pay him.
charged
1712, Sir Robert again made a similar attempt, and again lost his
suit
the expense to the corporation was
19 16.
April, 1753, a few of the nobility and gentry of the county of
Antrim petitioned the lords justices, that the courts of assize might be
removed to Antrim, as the gaol and court-house at Carrickfergus were
too confined, and out of repair.
May igth, this corporation also
presented a memorial to the lords justices, in which they asserted, that
the cause of complaint originated with the grand jury of the county of
Antrim, they having granted no money towards the repairs of either
court-house or gaol for many years past. That if the county of Antrim
really wished to enlarge said buildings, the corporation were willing to
They also said in their
give them sufficient ground for that purpose.
memorial, that the assizes for the county of Antrim had been held
We learn
here, "since circuits were first appointed in this kingdom."
no more of this business.
;
is
The market-house * stands near the centre of the town, and

a decent building, two stories high, with three arches in
Above the middle arch
front.
three
castles
embattled,
with
are the arms of the corporation

three ravens in the field; the
an eagle expanded. This building was founded

July 22,
Charles Davy's granted
1755, and was built by subscription.
the ground to the corporation for ever, at the
yearly rent of
five shillings; to its erection the earl of
Donegall gave
device,
September 6, 1771, the earl of Antrim, and his son, lord Dunluce,
then sheriff of the county of Antrim, the grand jury of said county, and
some
freeholders, petitioned the lord lieutenant to remove the courts of

assize to Antrim, as a new prison and court-house were about to be
The lord lieutenant declined to interfere, on which this business
was left to the lord chancellor and judges, who also declined to interfere,
and the design %vas abandoned.
built.
February 26, 1774, lord Dunluce, John O'Neill, and W. I.

Skeffington, in the absence of the members for Carrickfergus, obtained
leave to bring in a bill into the House of Commons, to remove the
assizes to Antrim.
Petitions against their removal were soon after
presented from the towns of Belfast, Larne, and Carrickfergus, being
examined at the bar of the House of Commons, and the charter of
queen Elizabeth and James I. being produced, the bill was discharged.
Messrs. Yelverton and Isaac were the lawyers for this corporation.
This suit cost ^36 17 io
10 of which was paid to Daniel Kirk, for
his expenses in taking the charters to Dublin.
At the assizes, the same
year, 12 of the county of Antrim grand jury signed a memorial, that
that they might
the assizes might be removed to Antrim, and
remain ; but the corporation were so much on the alert, that the
Messrs. Dobbs and Burleigh were law agents
design was abandoned.
for the corporation on this occasion, and were each presented with a
The
gratuity for their services, and the freedom of the corporation.
following are the names of the jurors who signed for the assizes to
remain
C. R. Dobbs, Ed. Crymble, Ed. Brice, George Porter,
;
Stewart Banks, James Wallace, William Higgison, Nicholas Stewart,

Hugh Mac Collum, Henry L. Burleigh, and Shem Thompson.
March 13, 1813, twenty-three persons of Belfast petitioned the

judges of assize and grand jury of the county of Antrim, that the
but the grand jury of the county
assizes might be removed to Belfast
This corporaof Antrim opposed the design, and it fell to the ground.
tion had previously held a meeting, on the 3d of March, and appointed
a committee, with power to draw money from their treasurer, to oppose
Records of Carrickfergus. Journals of the Irish House
the removal.
of Commons.
Sessions Court[*This building is now the Town Hall and Petty
house. The arms of the corporation are removed and the arches built
The ground floor is used as a Petty Sessions Court-house, above
up.
is the Town
Hall and office of the Town Clerk, in it is kept the
old records, the freeman's roll, and the seals of the corporation.
mace
Hanging in a frame in the Town Hall is the old sword and
Robert Gardner.
1837,
presented to the old corporation by Colonel
a new market-house, erected off North Street, on the site
;
April i5th,
of an old distillery,
was opened
for
public business.]
174
and the
late
held in
it
On
E. D. Wilson, the
each Saturday.
like
sum. 1
Markets [were] are
a rising ground, near the centre of the town, stands

CHURCH, said to have been founded on the site of
the parish
a pagan temple. 2
It is dedicated to St. Nicholas,
and appears
to have been anciently attached to the Franciscan monastery

already noticed, to which it probably served as an oratory, or
chapel.
subterraneous passage,* by which they communicated,

the entrance into the church was beneath the
to be seen
is still
communion table.
The form of the building is that of a cross, consisting of
a chancel, nave, and two aisles; the extreme length,* inside, is
132
feet,
but unequal in width, being 25 feet at the west end,
and only 21 feet at the chancel. North, or Donegall aisle, is

30 feet in length, and 23 in breadth; and Freeman's, or Wills's
On the outside, the
aisle, 32 feet in length, by 18 in breadth.
walls are strengthened by buttresses; the corner stones are
mostly of a cut yellowish stone, very different from any found
1
Gill's MSS.
Records of Carrickfergus. There was no markethouse here prior to the above time but a little east of the present
building was a small house, called the Weigh-house.
'GUI's MSS.
[* In all the changes and repairs of the church this passage has
been searched for and never found. The entrance to this was supposed
to be beneath the communion table.
On the passage being opened it
was found that the archway which was looked upon for generations
as the means of communication with the Franciscan Priory was only
a tomb or sepulchre, where some nobles of the city had been interred.
This idea was further strengthened by the discovery in the recess of
two sculls (male and female) which had lain there for centuries.
That their end had not been peaceful may be gathered from the fact
This entirely upsets
that one of the sculls had been cleaved open.
the old theory.
The investigations have been carried out so
systematically and carefully that there cannot be any possible doubt
but that the deductions are correct, that there is no underground
;
passage.]
[* The measurements of the inside of the church are not correct.
Dr. Brcreton has very kindly taken them
extreme length of church,
from inner step of west door of the tower to the east gable, 141 feet
j
inch
length of church, 126 feet
length of floor of tower, 15 feet
breadth of
breadth of nave at east end, 2 1 feet 2 inches
i
inch
nave at west end, 25 feet 7 inches length of north transept (Donegall
aisle), 32 feet 10 inches; breadth of north transept, 21 feet 5 inches;
length of south transept (Will's aisle), 23 feet 5 inches; breadth of
It will be seen from the above that
south transept, 20 feet 5 inches.
The church was originally much
the ground plan is very crooked.
larger, having double aisles on each side of the nave, and possibly
what is now the choir forming a Lady chapel in the rear it was
repaired and changed to its present cruciform shape by Thomas Cooper
about 1614.]
:
'75
The two
here.
buttresses, at the south-east comer, are, at

each angle, ornamented with little
pillars rounded in front, from
the quoin stones.
They appear to have been formerly surmounted by some object, perhaps a cross, or image of the
patron
saint.
There are two entrances, one on the west, another on the

The latter is near the chancel, to which part of a vestry-
north.
room, built by the late Dean Dobbs, in 1787, serves as a porch.

This entrance is by a small door with a pointed arch, re-opened
on the vestry * being completed. On its west side is also a like
door-way built up. The west door is strictly of modem date,

being made when the present steeple was completed. Formerly
the only entrances were on the south, by two small doors, which
were built up on those above being opened. The door east of
aisle had a pointed arch; the other, near the west
was
entered
end,
by a small porch, and had a semi-circular
Freeman's
door-way.
The chancel window* is pointed, and of stained glass, which

represents John the Baptist baptising Christ in the river Jordan.
Two small round windows in the west end are also of stained
These windows did not originally belong to this church,
glass.
but were brought from the private chapel of Dangan-house,
county of Meath, and were presented to this parish, about 1800,
by the late George Burleigh, of Burleigh-hill, Esq. The former
window was also of the pointed kind, and larger than the
present one;
it
was divided by two mullions,
that ramified into
six trefoil-headed lights.
The windows of the nave are also of the pointed kind, and
divided by mullions which ramify near the top into trefoilheaded lights. There are five of those windows on the south
side,
and three on the north
end,
is
in a mutilated state,
but one on each side, at the west

and now nearly square.
The windows of the aisles are of a square form, divided

the north aisle had four windows, the south three
mullions
by
the south window of the latter is divided by four mullions, all
the others by two. On the west side of Freeman's aisle is seen
;
the outside frame of a very large window, built up

is of cut stone, with a pointed arch.
to
the frame
vault of the Dobbs family, the entrance

[* Under this vestry is the
which is in the floor of porch, but is now covered in by the tiling.]
[*This window is now in the south transept.]
At the west end of
this building was formerly a steeple,

L
the clock was first set up in 1678.
on
Andrew
bell was given to the parish by
Willoughby
with a clock and bell;
The
"
Androv Willovby mayor h p 84." In 1778,

engraved,
the old steeple was taken down, and the present steeple and
octagon spire erected; the former by a Mr. Brown, who received
^277 10 ; the latter by a Mr. Newbold, who was paid
^264 97. A new clock was also set up at the same time,
and the bells of the former steeple. The following sums were
subscribed towards the erection of the steeple and the spire;
Earl of Donegall,
the remainder was defrayed by the parish.
it
is
^130 o o; Barry Yelverton, Esq., ^100 E. D. Wilson, Esq.,

^37 i 4, also a quantity of oak timber; Conway R. Dobbs,
;
^n
12; Mariott Dalway, Esq.,

Esq.,
7 6; Rev. Richard
Dobbs, dean of Connor, ^10 ; Rev. Isaac Haddock, curate,
2
^5 5 oj ; Richard Fletcher, Esq., 100 barrels of lime.
Concerning the founding of this church there is neither

nor tradition ; but, from its pointed door-ways and
windows, it seems certain that it could not have been built till
the twelfth century. The following fact is corroborative of this
On digging a grave under the chancel table in 1740,
opinion.
a cut freestone was discovered, on which was a cross, and on
one of its angles, anno n64. 3 This date is supposed to relate
to the period of the foundation of the church; and it appears
to have been connected with the monastery of St. Francis, which
strengthens the probability of a religious house being here prior
to the arrival of the English, or any record of the like being
founded in this place.
The aisles are alleged to have been
built at a later period than the body, though doubtless of
record
considerable antiquity.
Both are laid down in the ancient plan
annexed to this work further particulars are given in describing
the inside of each aisle.
Of
late years a considerable
repairs of the building, so that
uniform than
at
its
sum has been expended in the

interior is now more neat and
any period within memory.
It
pews,* besides 15 in a gallery in the west end.

1
*
3
contains 62
On
the south
Parish Register.
Gill's MSS.
It must however be observed, that
stone now bears the above date in plain figures, Mr.
date was 164.
[*There are now 85 pews and ten in the gallery.]
although
Gill
says
this
the
wall, near the chancel,
the
late
is
a mural
Dean Dobbs, with
descriptive of his character
monument
the
following
to the
memory of
inscription,
rruiy
SACRED
To THE MEMORY
OF
THE REV.D RICHARD DOBBS, A.M.

DEAN OF CONNOR;
WHOSE LIFE WAS DEVOTED TO A FAITHFUL
&
ZEALOUS DISCHARGE OF PASTORAL DUTIES,
THRO A PERIOD OF NEAR FORTY YEARS.

POSSESSED OF A TEMPER CALM AND DELIBERATE
His CALMNESS WAS THE RESULT OF FIRMNESS
OF MIND; AND HIS DELIBERATION wis-DOM. His PIETY WAS UNAFFECTED AND SINCERE
THE AFFECTIONS OF HIS HEART STRONG AND
PERMANENT
HE WAS CALLED
To
RECEIVE THE EVERLASTING REWARD

OF HIS PIOUS & CHARITABLE LABOURS
ON THE IV, TH DAY OF FEBRY. M.DCCCII
IN THE LXI, YEAR OF HIS AGE
MULTIS ILLE BONIS FLEBILIS OCCIDIT.
Beneath the floor, in the same place, is interred Rose,
marchioness of Antrim, second wife of Randal Mac Donnell,
marquis of Antrim, and only daughter and heiress of Sir Henry
O'Neill, of Edenduffcarrick, alias Shanescastle, by his wife
1
The marchioness
Martha, daughter of Sir Francis Stafford.
was interred, agreeably to her own request, close by the grave

of her grandfather, Sir Francis Stafford. 2 On her lead coffin
are quartered the arms of the noble families of O'Neill ami
Mac
Donnell, with the following inscription:
THE MOST HONOURABLE THE LADY

MARCHIONESS OF ANTRIM RELICT OF THE
MOST HONOURABLE RANDALL Me
DONNELL MARQUIS & EARL OF ANTRIM VISCOUNT DUNLUCE AND SOLE
'Tradition of Old Inhabitants.
Lodge's Peerage.
Her grave was
tinguished by a rod marble flag on the floor.
2
formerly
dis-
i8o
DAUGHTER AND HEIR OF SIR HENRY
O'
NEILL OF EDENDUFFCARRICK IN THE

COUNTY OF ANTRIM, WHO DEPARTED
THIS LIFE AT EDENDUFFCARRICK AFORESAID
ON THE 27,th DAY OF APRIL ANNO
DOMINI 1695. IN THE 64 YEAR OF HER AGE. 1
The
chancel was formerly hung with armorial bearings of the

whom she was related but on the 1 2th of
noble families to
2
January, 1754, the roof fell in, and destroyed the whole.
*
On a slab on the floor is the following inscription in
Roman
capitals:
HERE LYETH THE BODY

OF EDMOND DAVYS ALDERMAN
TWICE MAYOR OF CARRICKFERG-US WHO DEPARTED THIS
LIFE THE 6.th DAY OF JULY
ANNO DOM 1696 IN
THE 73 YEAR OF
HIS AGE.
HERE ALSO LYETH MARY,

HIS WIFE KATHERINE. ANN,
MARTHA, EDMOND, EZEKIEL,

AND NATHANIEL, SONS AND
DAUGHTERS OF Y,6 SAID
EDMOND AND MARY.
BEING DESCENDED OF A BRANCH
OF THE ANCIENT FAMILY OF GUSTANNA
NORTH WALES.
Near
this stone t is a flag with the
name of James Dobbin
engraven on it, who died 1757, aged 75 years; with the other
names of that family. On the right, on entering the church,
near the above inscription, is the grave of that great benefactor
of the poor, Henry
strange to
tell,
who died September 16. 1761; and

monument nor inscription mark where
Gill,
neither
1
July 5, 1605, Henry Leslie, archdeacon of Down,
funeral sermon in this church.
Sermon by H. Leslie.
will's
preached her
MSS.
This slab is now beside the Chichester Monument.]

ft This stone, with others, was removed when the church
refloored in 1872, and cannot be found.]
f*
was
remains
At a little distance, against the north wall,
a slab of black marble, with this inscription:
rest his
is
HERE LIETH THE BODY OF

ROBERT OPENSHAWE MINISTER,
DEAN OF THE CATHEDRAL CHURCH
OF S.t SAVIOURS OF CONNER
IN THE COUNTY OF ANTRIM. TO
THE TOWNE OF CRAGFERGUS PASTOR.
AND CHAPLAYNE TO THE RIGHT
HoN.ble LORD CHICHESTER BARON OF
BELFASTE & LORD HIGH TREASURER
OF IRELAND
DIED
1627.
Nearly opposite, against the south wall, is a marble tablet,

with a clumsy figure of Hope leaning against an urn, beneath
which are inscribed the following lines :--
THIS MONUMENT is ERECTED

BY A FEW OF THE FRIENDS OF
SAMUEL DAVYS STEUART

OF CARRICKFERGUS M. D.
WHO
FROM A LONG AND INTIMATE KNOWLEDGE
OF HIS WORTH, OFFER IT AS A FAITHFUL
TRIBUTE TO HIS SACRED MEMORY.
IT IS CONSECRATED BY THE TEARS OF THE
POOR AND THE PRISONER, TO HEAL WHOSE
BODILY DISEASES, AND TO IMPROVE
WHOSE MORAL CONDITION, HIS EMINENT
PROFESSIONAL TALENTS, HIS ENLIGHTENED
UNDERSTANDING. AND THE FEELINGS OF
HIS BENEVOLENT HEART. WERE APPLIED.
DIED NOVEMBER 4-th

AGED 36 YEARS.
little
door-wav.
is
1817.
west, against the same wall, nearly over a former

a stone* with this inscription:
he
[*This stone has the arms of Couper and Ratcliffe impaled.
arms in the church are seven in number, besides the arms
carved on the Chichester monument. Over the north door are the arms
"1
coats of
of
Carrickfergus.
Couper and
Chichester
and Legg.
wall of the choir are the arms of

In the Donegal aisle are the arms of
In the XYill's aisle are those of Gardner
places.
the gallery door are the Royal Arms of James I.
On
Ratcliffe
two
Over
in
the
south
impaled.
i8a
HERE LIETH THE BODY OF THOMAS

COUPER ALDERMAN AND Twis
MAIRE OF CARICKFERGUS DESESED
THE 20,th OF AUG.t 1625
in
On a
Roman
large slab *on the floor, near the pulpit,
is
inscribed
capitals
HERE LVETH
THE BODY OF HENRY
CLEMENTS OF STRADE
ESQ. AGED 52 YEARS
WHO DEPARTED THIS LIFE
THE 2,d DAY OF NOVEMBER
1696 BEING THEN
MAYOR OF CARRICKFERGUS.
West of the above on the
inscription to the memory of
her family: the date is 1674.
floor,
is
a large flag t with an

others of
Mary Williamson, and
In the south wall, near the west end,

inscription
is
a stone with this
HERE LYETH Y.e BODY

OF RICHARD LANG
WHO DEPARTED THIS
LIFE Y.e 20.th OF MAY
1620.
HERE ALSO LYE-TH Y.e BODY OF JAMES
LANG WHO DEPARTY.e y.th OF OCTOBR
ANNO 1687.
HERE ALSO LYETH LETTICIA HIS
WIFE WHO WAS INTERRED Ye 4-th
OF JUNE 1/05. A DAUGHTER OF
JOHN BULWORTHY ALDERMAN
AND TWICE MAYOR OF
ED
CARRICKFERGUS.
arms were repainted in their proper colours in the year 1895,
same time the swords and helmet of the Chichestcr
monument were cleaned and varnished. The epitaphs on the above
monument were originally in painted letters, which had begun to fade.
They were engraved by the late Countess of Shaftesbury at the request
All these
and
at
the
of the late rector, the Rev. George Chamberlain.]

[*This slab cannot be found.]
[t Removed and cannot be found.]
1*5
Nearly opposite, against the wall,

following
is
a stone bearing the
THIS FONT, A SILVER

FLAGON, THE TABLES
OF THE COMMANDMENTS
LORD'S PRAYER, &
CREED. WERE GIVEN
TO THIS CHURCH BY
SAMUEL DAVYS
ALDERMAN
ANNO DOM. 1714.
The
font alluded to has been long since removed.
The south aisle is called Wills s or Freeman's aisle; Ihe

former name from an ancient family of this place, now extinct
;
the latter
it
from
appears,
seats being formerly in

were obliged to attend the
it
for the freemen, who,
mayor
to church every
Sunday, the aldermen, or their deputies, keeping a list of

1
who were perhaps made to pay a small fine.
defaulters,
On
all
the right of the entrance into the aisle are the seats of
the mayor, aldermen, and burgesses.

Over the mayor's seat, at
the top of a pillar that supports two circular arches, above the
is
passage,
the following inscription*:
THIS WORKE BEGAN A. D. 1614. MR. COOPER THEN

MAIOR. AND WROUGHT BY THOMAS PAPS
FREE MASON, MR. OPENSHAWE
BEING PARSON, VIVAT
REX
JACOBUS.
Against the east wall is a mural monument of white marble,
memory of Andrew Gardner, and others of his family.
to the
On
the
vertex
inscription as
1
is
his
crest,
and beneath, the arms, with the
on page 184.
tablet with
south wall of nave.]
"
f*The
this
inscription
is
now
at
west
end
of
the
Robert Gardner was younger brother of John, and grandson cf

John Bulhvorthy, who was mayor of Carrickfergus in 1654. He was
an agent in London, by which he acquired a very great fortune, but
was unfortunate in the South Sea (Inible). loosing then the most of all
he had, so that he died in but low circumstances, and his affairs very
much incumbred however he was a man of great hospitality, doing
;
many
to
offices
him."
of
Gill's
sincere
friendship,
to
all
those that
made
application
MSS.
to a
[Robert and John Gardner were sons of Andrew, who was married
On
follows
stone *
in
the
86
passage opposite,
is
inscribed
as
HERE LYETH THE BODY

OF ANDREW GARDNER BURGESS
WHO DEPARTED THIS LIFE Y.e
4th OF
FEBRUARY
1682.
HERE LYETH Y.e

BODY OF JOAN HIS WIFE WHO
WAS BURIED Y.e l8,th OF MARCH
1694.
On
a slab * adjoining
HERE LYETH THE BODY

OF MARGRET CATHERWOOD AND
AGNES DAUGHTER TO
ANDREW GARDNER.
MARGRET O'BRIEN DEPARTED

THIS LIFE THE 28. JAN. 1728-9
AGED
Against the west wall
is
50 YEARS.
a tablet,! with the following:
HERE LYETH Y.e

BODY OF ELIZBETH HILL WHO
DEPARTED THIS
LIFE Y.e 9th OF DECB.
1726,
AGED
50
YEARS.
HERE ALSO LYETH

BODY OF ANN
Y.e
HER DAUGHTER
WHO DEPARTED
Y.e ic.th OF NOVB. 1720
AGED
22 YEARS.
of William Catherwood. Ball wester, Dnnajhadee (1630).

His son was
styled "laird Catherwood of Ballyvestor."
By this marriage the Gardner
lands of Knockagh came into the possession of the Catherwood family.]
[* These two tablets or stones are now on either side of the
sister
Chichester monument.]
[fThis tablet cannot be found.]
i8 7
The following additional tablets have been

placed in the
church, also stained glass windows.
In Wills's or Freeman's
on the
aisle are
four additional tablets,
right
IN MEMORY OF
DAVID LEGG,
SOLICITOR AND TOWN CLERK
OF
WHO
CARRICKFERGVS.
DIED 20TH MARCH, 1854,
AGED 51 YEARS.
ATTACHED FRIENDS
ERECTED THIS TABLET
A FEW
AS A MARK OF THEIR ESTEEM.

Another on the same side
To THE MEMORY
OF
STAFF SURGEON
WHO
JOHN MILLAR.
DIED AT GLASGOW.
MAY
3RD. 1850.
AGED 55 YEARS.
IN AFFECTIONATE REMEMBRANCE
THE OFFICERS WHO SERVED WITH HIM
IN THE 43RD LIGHT INFANTRY.
OF WHICH REGT. HE WAS SURGEON
FOR
8 YEARS.
HAVE ERECTED THIS MONUMENT.

HlS REMAINS REST IN
LIGHTHILL CEMETERY, AT GLASGOW.
Facing is a large memorial window
To THE GLORY OF GOD AND TO THE
DEAR MEMORY OF WlLLIAM ROBERT
BURLEIGH.
WHO
DIED APRIL
This window, a design

his
in
many
2TH. A.D.,
colours,
87
was erected by
widow.
To
the left
WHO
SACRED
TO THE MEMORY OF
ROBERT HANLY.
LIVED ESTEEMED AND DIED REGRETTED.
MAY
it.
1831.
2.
88
THIS MONUMENT WAS ERECTED BY

LORD GEORGE A. HILL.
REPRESENTATIVE FOR CARRICKFERGUS. AS A MEMORIAL OF
HIS RESPECT AND REGARD.
IN LOVING
MEMORY OF
SURGEON MAJOR
DAVID REDMOND TAGGART. M.D.,

ROYAL ANTRIM ARTILLERY,
AND CORONER COUNTY ANTRIM AND CARRICKFERGUS.
"
DIED IOTH APRIL. l886, AGED 47 YEARS.

UNTIL THE DAY BREAK. AND THE SHADOWS FLEE AWAY."
In the Donegall aisle are two tablets, one
SACRED
TO THE MEMORY OF
BLAYNEY TOWNLEY WALSHE. ESQR..

LATE LIEUT. COL. ROYAL ARTILLERY.
WHO DEPARTED THIS LIFE JAN. 29TH. 1839, AGED 62.
ALSO OF ANNA, HIS WIFE.
WHO DIED IN DUBLIN, JAN. 18, 1840, AGED 49.
The
other to
MARGARET.
FOURTH DAUGHTER OF THE LATE

GEORGE SPEAR.
OF CARRICKFERGUS.
DIED i3TH MARCH. 1895.
EVERY GOOD WORK HAD HER KINDLY HELP. AND EVERY
DESERVING OBJECT HER ACTIVE SYMPATHY AND SUPPORT.
THIS TABLET IS ERECTED BY A FEW LOVING FRIENDS. TO
"
PERPETUATE HER MEMORY.
SHE STRETCHED OUT HER
HAND TO THE POOR. YEA, SHE REACHED FORTH HER HANDS
TO THE NEEDY." PROVERBS XXXI. 2C.
Also a stone slab against the wall
HERE LIETH THE BODY OF THE
REVD. HILL BENSON.

DEAN OF CONNOR.
HE WAS BORN THE 3RD OF OCTOBER. 1704, AND
DEPARTED THIS LIFE THE 2 1 ST OF APRIL, 1 775.
THEY THAT BE WISE SHALL SHINE AS THE BRIGHTNESS OF
THE FIRMAMENT AND THEY THAT TURN MANY TO
RIGHTEOUSNESS AS THE STARS FOR EVER AND EVER.
189
east
Large
texts,
Scripture
window.
jewel
which was erected,
with
several
by the late
Thomas
window,
in 1872,
Greer, Esq., and Margaret, his wife.
On
The
the south side of the choir or chancel are four windows.
at the east end, is erected to the

memory of the late
Edward
fourth
son
of Richard Dobbs,
Dobbs,
Conway
Esq.,
Dean
of
Connor.
Born
formerly
apth August, 1773, died i8th
first,
Also of Maria, his wife, born
March, 1870.
died 29th April,
This window
1869.
(Subject:
Faith,
ist
May, 1778,
Hope and
Charity.)
placed by their sorrowing children,

them reverenced examples of Faith, Hope and Charity.
The
is
next
window
to
is
1900.
the Ascension.)
The
in
memory of Charles Arthur
Erected by E. Wilson, Esq.,
Wellesley Stewart. Esq.

(Subject
the
who
memory of
Connor.''
"
To
God and
in loving
the late Very Revd. George Bull, D.D.,

(Subject: Call of St. Peter, St. James,
Dean of
third
window
is
the Glory of
and
St.
John.)
"
In loving memory of John Boyd

who died 2/th November. 1859. and of Barbara, his
the Transwho died 22nd May, 1865.
(Subject:
Fourth
window,
Gilmore,
wife,
figuration.)
On
the
first,
north side of choir or chancel there are two windows,

.
at east end,
memory of Anne
6th Nov.,
Very Rev.
1
88 1.
is
"
To
the glory of
God and
in loving
Bull, born A.D., 3oth Jan., 1823, died A.D.,

This window is erected by her husband, the
of
George Bull, D.D.. Dean of Connor. Rector
"He that cometh unto Me shall

Carrickfergus and Raloo."
never hunger and he that believeth in Me shall never thirst.'and Fishes.)
John vi. 3^. (Subject: the Miracle of the Loaves
"
The second window, In memory of Alexander Johns, who
died
3th May, 1866; and of
Emma,
his wife,
who
died 9th
March, 1857." This window is a design of conventional foliage.

"
To the Glory of God
In the nave is a memorial window
and in loving memory of John Chaine, M.A., sometime Dean
of Connor, and Julia his wife, also Mary their daughter. This
window is placed by Rebecca. William and Margarette Chaine.
; '
A.D., 1892.
Me, &c.")
(Subject:
"Suffer
little
children to
come unto
190
Also a monument
ERECTED BY JAMES STEPHENS
MEMORY OF HIS FATHER,

STRATFORD STEPHENS,
WHO DIED 24TH JANUARY, 1848, AGED 48 YEARS.
AND IN AFFECTIONATE REMEMBRANCE OF HIS DEAR MOTHER,
MARGARET STEPHENS,
WHO DIED l8TH APRIL, 1873, AGED 67 YEARS.
DEEPLY REGRETTED BY HER CHILDREN FOR WHOM
HER LOVE AND DEVOTION WERE UNBOUNDED.
IN
The
other stained glass
window (John
the Baptist baptising
Christ) was formerly the east window of the church, and was
presented by the late George Burleigh, Esq., Burleigh Hill,
about 1800.
tablet
SACRED TO THE MEMORY OF

HENRY ECCLESTOX.
YEAR OF HIS AGE WAS DROWNED
WHO IN THE 38
OFF THE ISLE OF BARBUDA, IN THE WEST INDIES.
HlS BARQUE THE " LANCASHIRE WlTCH " HAVING BEEN
WRECKED IN A HURRICANE ON THE 1 8TH AUGUST, 1851.
THIS TABLET IS ERECTED BY HIS WIDOW.
JANE ECCLESTON.
IN REMEMBRANCE OF A BELOVED HUSBAND
AND AFFECTIONATE FATHER.
"
FAR, FAR HE LIES FROM HOLY GROUND,
DEEP IN HIS CORAL BED;
THE SEA WEEDS WRAP HIS CORSE AROUND,
THE WAVES ROLL O'ER HIS HEAD."
"
AND THE SEA GAVE UP THE DEAD WHICH WERE IN IT."
REV. \x. 13.
ALSO HIS DAUGHTER GEORGINA. WHO DIED IOTH MAY, 1845,
AGED 3 YEARS.
a marble
Additional tablets in the chancel
surmounted by naval trophies, bearing the following:
:
tablet,
SACRED TO THE MEMORY

OF
LIEUTENANT JAMES EVERARD;
WILLIAM TODD, ROBERT HENDERSON. AND JOHN BOYD,
SEAMEN OF THIS PLACE LATE BELONGING TO
His MAJESTY'S SLOOP " XIMROD."
;
WHO WERE DROWNED
IN
BELFAST LOUGH,
BY THE UPSETTING OF A BOAT, AUGUST I5TH, 1825.

As A TRIBUTE OF RESPECT FOR
AN AMIABLE YOUNG MAN, AND HIGHLY MERITORIOUS OFFICER,
AND FOR THE WORTHY GOOD SEAMEN.
THE CAPTAIN, OFFICERS, AND SHIP'S COMPANY OF THE XIMROD
HAVE ERECTED THIS TABLET.
SACRED TO THE MEMORY OF
JOHN EDWARD KIDLEY, M.D.,
WHO DEPARTED
THIS LIFE
6TH APRIL, 1852,

AND
FRANCES ANNE KIDLEY,
I;TH JUNE, 1852,
SON AND DAUGHTER OF JOHN KlDLEY,
OF FOWNHOPE, HEREFORESHIRE, ENGLAND.
ALSO
JANE MAXWELL,
RELICT OF SURGEON MAXWELL,
27TH DECEMBER. 1844.
ALSO OF SARAH ELIZA KIDLEY,
RELICT OF JOHN KIDLEY, ESQ.,
OF FOWNHOPE, HEREFORDSHIRE,
IST JANUARY, 1855.
Brass tablet
To THE GLORY OF GOD

AND THE BELOVED MEMORY OF
GARTH OGLE,
LIEUTENANT ROYAL FUSILIERS,
BORN AT CARRICKFERGUS, 1877,
AND ACCIDENTALLY DROWNED
NEAR PRETORIA. 30TH OCTOBER. 1901.
WHILST SERVING WITH THE MOUNTED INFANTRY
IN THE SOUTH AFRICAN WAR.
THIS TABLET IS ERECTED BY HIS PARENTS,
MAJOR GENERAL F. A. OGLE. C.B.. AND
AGNES HIS WIFE, AS
A TRIBUTE OF AFFECTION
192
TO A GALLANT YOUNG SOLDIER,

A STAUNCH FRIEND, AMD A DEVOTED SON.
Tablet
NEAR THIS PLACE LIES INTERRED

THE BODY OF
CAPTAIN CHARLES STEWART,
5TH (LORD MOLESWORTH'S DRAGOONS)

SON OF ALEXANDER STEWART, OF WESTER,
CLUNY, PERTHSHIRE,
AND ISABELLA STEWART, OF BALLNAKILLIE.
HIS WIFE.
HE
DIED 4TH JUNE, 1774, DISTINGUISHED

ALIKE IN HIS MILITARY AND PRIVATE CAREER,
BY HIS FIDELITY TO THE PATH OF DUTY AND BY HIS
DISPLAY OF EVERY AMIABLE AND CHRISTIAN VIRTUE.
ALSO TO THE MEMORY OF

ROSE HIS WIFE,
WHO DIED IITH FEBRUARY, 1779, AGED 92 YEARS.

SHE WAS DAUGHTER OF RODGER HALL, ESQ., OF NARROW
WATER, Co. DOWN, AND GRAND-DAUGHTER OF
SIR TOBY POYNTZ, KNT., OF ACTON AND
BRENAGH, Co. ARMAGH.
IN LOVING
MEMORY
OF
ROBERT ROWAN,
LATE CAPTAIN 5 2ND
OXFORDSHIRE LIGHT INFANTRY,
BORN I7TH MARCH, 1780, AT BELLI SLE.
COUNTY ANTRIM,
DIED 6TH JANUARY, 1863, AT CARRICKFERGUS.
AND OF
HENRIETTA MARIA. HIS WIFE,
BORN 20TH NOVEMBER, 1814, AT WATERFORD,
DIED gTH MARCH. 1879. AT CARRICKFERGUS.
"
IN THE WORLD YE SHALL HAVE TRIBULATION j
BUT BE OF GOOD CHEER. I HAVE OVERCOME
THE WORLD." JOHN XVI. 33.
193
MEMORY OF
DAVYS BOWMAN,
IN LOVING
WHO
DIED 2ND FEBRUARY, 1904,

AGED 44 YEARS.
"
HE ASKED LIFE OF THEE
AND THOU GAVEST HIM A LONG LIFE,
EVEN FOR EVER AND EVER."
Brass tablets,
To THE GLORY OF GOD AND IN

LOVING MEMORY OF WlLLIAM JOHNS,
OF JOYMOUNT COURT, CARRICKFERGUS,
WHO
DIED
MARCH
26xn, 1898.
AGED 80 YEARS.
To THE GLORY OF GOD AND IN MEMORY OF

ANNE C. DARBY.
WIDOW OF THE REV. JONATHAN LoVETT DARBY,
RECTOR OF POYNTZPASS,
DIED JANUARY STH, 1888, AGED 68 YEARS.
Tablet,
"
In memory of the Revd. Bennett W. Johns, Curate of

Carrickfergus, through divine grace a shining model of a
Christian pastor, and a meek and lowly servant of the Lord
This monument is raised by his brethren in

Jesus Christ.
the ministry and a sorrowing flock, to record for a perpetual
example the faith and integrity of a man of God, whose
animated zeal was not
less
powerful to win souls than his
In the
gentleness and loving kindness to retain them.
inscrutable Providence of the Most High His faithful servant
was called from His blessed labours whilst
his usefulness
of promise.
was
Attacked by malignant fever in Dublin, he

died 2yth May, 1841, in the second year of his ministry, and
The will of God be done."
25th year of his age.
Brass tablet,
full
To THE GLORY OF GOD

AND IN LOVING MEMORY
BENNETT WM. JOHNS.
OF
SECOND SON OF THE LATE WlLLIAM JOHNS.

OF JOYMOUNT COURT. CARRICKFERGUS,
DIED AT SYDNEY, X.S.W.,
25TH JULY. 1899. AGED 37 YEARS.

14
194
The
north aisle *
the private property of the marquis of

From its
Donegall, being formerly the chapel of his family.
ruinous state it has lately been shut out from the other parts
Near its entrance are two seats belonging to
of the church.
is
Over the entrance, inside, is a tablet of white

surmounted
marble,
by a coronet on the tablet is an inscription
to the memory of Arthur Chichester, third earl of Donegall,
who was killed in Spain. The following is a copy
nobleman.
this
MEMORISE PERENNI
ARTHUR COMITIS DE DONEGALL VICE-COMITIS CHICHESTER
DE
CARRICKFERGUS, BAR.S DE BELFAST; COMITAS ANTRIM,
LOCOM TENENTIS, URBIS CARRICKFERGUS PRjEFECTI,

ET SERENISSIM^ ANNJE ANGLIC, &c. REGINÊ COPIARUM
IN HlSPANIAS MISS ARUM LfiGATI ;
Qui IN BARCELONA URBE HISPANICA JACET,
CALPE QUO TEMPORE AB

VIRIBUS OPPUGNABATUR,
IN URBEM FELICISSIMUM INTULIT AUXILIUM, QUA SALUTEM
OBSESSIS, OBSESSORIBUS RUINAM & DEDECUS COMPARAVIT
ANNO 1705, IN CATALONIAM PROVECTUS APUD OBSIDIONEM
BARCELONA DE RE MILITARI INSIGNITER MERITUS EST
POST URBEM CAPTAM GIRRONÊ & LOCORUM ADJACENTIUM
PRÊFECTUS CONSTITUTUS SUMMA VIGILANTIA & VIRTUTE
BELLICAS RES ADMINISTRAVIT ET CUM EX ADVERSO BARCELONA
A DUCE ANDEGAVENSI (REGE CATHOLICO TITULARI) RE-OBSESSA
& A REGE CAROLO 3,d DEFENSA ESSET SE CUM PLURIMIS
COHORTIBUS IN URBEM CONJECIT ADEOQUE REM AUSTRIACAM
PERICLITANTEM RESTITUIT Ifil PROPUGNACULI MoNJUICH
PR^FECTURAM SUSCIPIENS TAMDIU HOSTIUM AGGRESSUS
SUSTINUIT DONEC NUMERO & REPETITIS CONATIBUS OPPRESSUS,
ANIMO VEL IN ARTICULO MORTIS INVICTUS FLORENTIBUS LAURIS
SEPULTUS
ILLE,
ANNO
UNITIS HlSPANIARUM
1704,
& GALLIC
ANNO 1706, io,mo DIE APRILIS ^TATIS SUJE 40

Cui JURE MATRIMONIALI ET HoNORIBUS SUCCESSIT
ARTHURUS FILIUS EJUS NATU MAXIMUS
POSUIT E SUMPTIBUS PROPRIIS UXOR SUA FIDISSIMA
DOMINA CATHARINA E GENTE FORBESIANA FILIA
[* This aisle is not now in a ruinous

restored and open for public worship.]
state,
but
is
thoroughly
;f *y StrnntS
THE CHICUESTKR MO^TMKXT.
&
PS* fit*
UNICA ARTHURI COMITIS DE GRANARD, VICE-COMITIS

DE GRANARD & HAMLIN, & BARONIS DE CLANIHU. X
The west windows of this aisle are built up, the east
windows shattered and broken, and there are many holes in the
roof.
Of the numerous armorial bearings and trophies of this
family that once waved gracefully from its walls and ceiling,
scarcely a fragment now remains [now restored].
Against the north end is a stately sepulchral monument of
marble and alabaster, belonging to the noble family of
Chichester, of which the annexed plate is a true representation.

On the dado, over the sarcophagus, are two niches, in which
are the effigies, in alto relievo, of Sir Arthur Chichester, first
lord baron Belfast, and his lady.
The effigies front each other,
and are in a praying posture, with long robes and ruffs ; between
lies in effigy their infant son, Arthur.
On the plinth of
the sarcophagus, is the effigy of Sir John Chichester, in armour,
also in a praying posture, but somewhat mutilated, the hands
having fallen off. In front of the pediment is a death's head,
"
EN ME
surmounted by a coronet, beneath which is inscribed
them
TRIUMPHANTEM."
relievo,
with
the
little
motto:
Near the base are large

f cllowing inscription
lower are the family arms, in basso

"
HONOR SEQUITUR FUGIENTEM."
tablets
of black marble,
with the
SACRED TO GOD AND ETERNAL MEMORIE.

SR ARTHUR CHICHESTER KNIGHT BARON OF BELFAST, Lo,
HlGH TREASVRER OF IRELAND GOVERNOVR OF THIS TOWNE &
OF THE COVNTRIES ADJOINING DESCENDED OF THE AVNCIENT
& NOBLE HOVSE OF THE CHICHESTROS IN THE CVNTIE
OF DEVON, SONNE OF SIR JOHN CHICHESTER OF RALEICHE KT.
& OF HIS WIFE GARTRVD COVRTNEY GRAND CHILD OF SR EDWD.
CHICHESTOR & OF HIS WIFE ELIZABETH DAVGHTER OF JOHN
BOVRGCHEIR EARL OF BATH. AFTER THE FLIGHT
OF THE EARLS OF TIRON & TERCONNEL
OTHER ARCH TRAYTORS THEIRE ACCOMPLICE
1
Monjuich, or Monjuick, where this nobleman fell, was an almost
impregnable fort that secured the land side of the city of Barcelona.
On his death, King Charles of Spain wrote a letter to queen Anne,
London Gentleman's
extolling his courage, and lamenting his loss.
Magazine. MSS.
198
SETTLED THE PLANT ACON OF THIS PROVINCE & WELL &

HAPPILY GOVERNED THIS KINGDOME IN FLOVERISHING ESTATE
VNDER JAMES OVR KING THE SPACE OF n YEARE
&: MORE.
WHILST HE WAS LD DEPETIE & GOVERNOVR
THEIROF, RETYRED HIMSELF INTO HIS PRIVATE GOVERNMENT
& BEING MINDFVL OF HIS MORTALITIE REPRESENTED VNTO
HIM BY THE VNTYMELY DEATH OF ARTHVR HIS SONNE THE
ONLY HOPE OF HIS HOVSE, WHO LIVED NOT FVLL 2 MONTHS
AFTER HIS BIRTH, As ALLSOE OF HIS NOBLE AND VALIANT
BROTHER
SR JOHN CHICHESTER KNIGHT, LATE SERJEANT MAIOR OF THE
ARMYE IN THIS KINGDOME & THE PRACEDENT GOVERNOVR
OF THIS TOWNE, HATH CAVSED THIS CHAPPELL TO BE REPAIRED
& THIS VALT & MONVMENT TO BE MADE AND ERECTED AS
WELL IN REMEMBRANCE OF THEM WHOSE STATVES ARE EXPRESSED
& THEIRE BODYES INTERRED, As ALLSOE A RESTING PLACE FOR
THE BODY ITSELF & HIS MOST DEAR & BEST BELOVED
WIFE THE NOBLE & VERTVOVS LADY L-ETTICE. ELDEST DAVGHTER
OF SR JOHN PERROT, KNIGHT SOMETYME WORTHYE
DEPVTIE OF THIS KINGDOME WHICH THEY SHALL HEAR
REST IN PEACE VNTILL THE SECOND COMING OF THEIR
CRVCIFIED REDEEMER WHOME THEYE MOST CONSTANLY BELEIVE
THERE TO BEEHOLD WITH THEIR BODILY EYES TO THEIR ENDLESS
BLESSEDNESS & EVERLASTING COMFORT.
&:
GLADIVS MEVS NON SALVABITME.
FATVM MORTIS A DOMINO INJVNCTVM
EST.
IF THAT DESIRE, OR CHANCHE THEE HITHER LEAD
VPON
THIS MARBLE
MONVMENT TO TREAD
LET ADMIRATION THY BEST THOUGHTS STILL FEED

WHILE WEEPING THOV, THIS EPITAPH DOEST READE
&: LET DISTILLING TEARES. THY COMMAES BE.
As TRIBVTE DVE, VNTO THIS ELIGIE.
;
EPITAPHE.
WITHIN THIS BEDD OF DEATH, A VICEROY LYES.

WHOSE FAME SHALL EVER LIVE. VlRTVE NERE DYES
FOR HE DID VIRTVE AND RELIGION NORIS-HE
& MADE THIS LAND LATE RVDE, WITH PEACE TO FLOVRISH.
;
199
THE WILDEST
BE POWER DID TAME

RESELL,
BY TRVE JVSTICE GAYNED AN HONORD NAME ;
THEN NOW. THOVGH HE IN HEAVEN WITH ANGELLS BE,
LET VS ON EARTH STILL LOVE HIS MEMORIE.
&
BY HIM
INTERED, HlS NOBLE LADYE IS,

PARTAKE WITH HIM IN HEAVENLY BLISSE,
FOR WHILE THE EARTH, VNTO THEM WAS A SEAT,
BLESSED THEY WERE, BEING BOTH GOOD AND GREAT.
WHOE
WlTH THEM DOTH REST, THEIR ONE & ONLY SONNE,

WHOSE LIFE WAS SHORT, AND SOE HIS GLASS SOONE RVN ;
THE HEAVENS NOT EARTH, WAS HIS ALLOTTED RIGHT,
FOR WHICH HE BADD THE \VORLD SOE SOONE GOODNIGHT.
IXTOMED BY THEM HERE ALLSOE DOTH REMAYN,
His WORTHY BROTHER, BY BASE REBELS SLAYN,
AS HE IN MARTIALL, & BRAVE WARREL1KE FEIGHT,
OPPOSDE THEIR CVRIE IN HIS CVNTREYS RIGHT.
6c IN MEMORIALL OF THEIRE ENDLESS PRAISE,
THIS MONVMENT IS LEFT TO AFTER DAYES.
Beneath
this aisle is a vault
* formed of cut
stone, formerly
used by this family for interment

ing personages
Sir John
November
in
it
are interred the follow-
Chichester,
beheaded
by
the
Mac
Donnells,
which is broken down, is

the blade of a small sword, with some lime.
Arthur Chichester, only son of Sir Arthur Chichester, first
lord baron Belfast, born September 26, 1606, died October 30,
same
4.
1597; near
his coffin,
year.
daughter of Sir John Perrot, and wife of Sir

Arthur Chichester. first lord baron Belfast, who died November
interred January 10, following.
27. 1620
Letitia.
[* This vault is twenty feet long, by fifteen feet wide, the roof
forming a semi-circular arch of cut stone, six feet in the centre the
In 1854,
door which opened into the church is now bricked up.
August i6th, Lord Hamilton Chichester was interred in the vault
he was brother to the Marquis of Donegall, and Uncle to the late
Countess of Shaftesbury.
1860, September 24th, the Marchioness of
Donegall, mother of the late Countess of Shaftesbury, was also interred
here.
These coffins have all been removed to the mausoleum at Belfast
Castle, Cave Hill, which the Third Marquis of Donegall (who died in
and
father of the late Countess of Shaftesbury, built as his place
1883),
;
of family sepulchre.]
20O
Sir Arthur Chichester,
in
first
who
lord baron Belfast,
London, February 19, 1624 interred October 24, 1625.

Mary Denham, second wife of Sir Edward Chichester,
who
viscount Carrickfergus,
interred soon after.
On
a small
died at Belfast, February
2,
died
first
1637
marked, Êtatis 25, obit 8,th January,

coffin, E. C. Dec,ber 3,d 1642; on
resting on the latter, is marked D. C. qui
coffin is
1631; and on another small

a very small
obiit 8,th
coffin,
The
January 1638.
inscriptions
on these
coffins are
raised on the lead.
Arthur Chichester,*
March
first
earl of
interred
Donegall
died at Belfast,
left ^50 to
He
1675.
May
the poor of Carrickfergus, and ^200 to those of Belfast.
small coffin, marked C. C. March n,th 1701, setat. 25
16,
1674
2oth,
much
shattered.
Arthur Chichester, second earl of Donegall, died December

13, 1705, aged 72.
A small coffin, marked F. C. 1708. This is believed to
contain the bones of lady Jane, lady Frances, and lady
daughters of Arthur, third earl of Donegall, who
were burned in the castle of Belfast, by the carlessness of a
Henrietta,
servant, April 24, the
On
same
year.
merely inscribed, Aetatis suse 50 aged 38,

and
on
another, I. E. C. Obit Feb.r 27,th 1719; on a
1716;
"
The son of the Honorable John Chichester Obyt June
third,
the
a coffin
1737."
i,st
is
large coffin, covered with crimson velvet,
escutcheons, has a
follows
gilt
plate on
its lid,
on which
and numerous
is
engraved as
THE RIGHT HONOURABLE AND ILLUSTEROUS

KATHERINE COUNTESS OF DONEGALL DOWAGER OF
THE MOST NOBLE AND PUISSANT ARTHUR
CHICHESTER LATE EARL OF DONEGALL
VISCOUNT CARRICKFERGUS, LORD CHICHESTOR BARON
OF BELFAST. DIED JUNE i5,th 1743,
AGED
73 YEARS.
[*The funeral of this nobleman was one of the greatest, not in

numbers, but in the order and formality to be expected at the obsequies
of a military man of high rank, and the owner of the town from
The eighty-eight poor men which followed were
which it issued.
But most who
indicative of the number of years the Earl had lived.
201
This was lady Catherine Forbes, only daughter of Arthur

and second wife to the third earl of Donegall.
earl of Granard,
She died at Abinger, in Surrey, as above, and was interred here

on the night of the loth of August, the same year, about 12
1
Her daughter was also interred in the same vault
o'clock.
soon
Hon John
after.
Chichester,
Donegall, died at Bath, June
i,
son of the third earl of
1746, aged 45, interred October
loth, following.
Hon. Elizabeth Chichester, daughter of John Chichester,

died February 12, 1748, interred June 26, the same year.
Arthur Chichester, fourth earl of Donegall, died September
interred on the 7th of the following
28, 1757, aged 64 years
October.
vast
number of gentlemen, and
his late tenantry,
attended on this occasion.
Edward May,
Sir
father-in-law to the marquis of
bait.,
Donegall. He died in London, July 23, 1814, aged 63 years

interred here the loth of September following.
At the time of
his death
he was member of parliament for Belfast. 2

relict of Sir Edward May, Bart.
Elizabeth May,
She
died in London, March 26th, 1823; interred April 27th, same

year, in the vault with Sir Edward.
June i4th, 1825, Lord
Spencer Chichester, third son of the Marquis of Donegall, who
died at Richmond, England,
May
was
27th, this year,
laid in
the family vault with military honours.

1658 Sir Henry O'Neill, who died at Blackhall, England,
where he was born, was brought to Ireland and interred near
communion
the
1678
table.
Dame Martha
and
O'Neill,
daughter
of
Sir
Francis
She died
at Ballymagerry, April, 1678, lay in state at Shanescastle, and
Avas interred near the chancel with great pomp.
Rose. MarStafford,
relict
of the
-first
Sir
Henry
O'Neill.
were conspicuous were distinguished persons
in the country, many of

of the deceased
the Sovereign and Burgesses of
Belfast closed the procession of perhaps the greatest funeral that ever
left that town.]
them
relatives
Parish Register.
Lodge's Peerage. This lady was distinguished
She kept two annual
her piety, charity, and conjugal virtues.
fasts, the one for the death of her husband, the other for the burning
of her country seat
Gentleman's ^lagazine.
for
The
notices respecting these persons were mostly taken from the

the remainder from the register of this parish, and
coffins in the vault
Lodge's Peerage.
2O2
chioness of Antrim, noticed page
141,
was interred July 4th r
1695.*
It
hoped the following events, connected with thisbe deemed interesting they have not been noticed
is
building, will
in its description.
John Coutok,*
1303
rector,
let
off
this
church for three
In
Mercer, at the annual rent of 45 marks.
this indenture, which is dated at Dublin, Mercer is bound tocomplete the repairs of the chancel, as he had begun it ; and to
years to Robert
pay papal
le
tythes,
and
all other charges.
1569 The mayor held his courts in the church, castle

October 8, 1575, Sir Henry
Worraigh being out of repair.
arrived
in
Sidney
Carrickfergus, and gave ^94 9 6 towards
its
repairs.
1581
The following order was
issued by the lord deputy
Grey.
"
A. Grey.
By
the L. Deputie.
Forasmuche as the maior and inhabitants of Carigfergus

are to bringe home this somer their Churche tymber out of the
woodes of Belfast This are ernestlie to will and require you,
such tyme as they have occasion to travell thither, for ihe
same, to permyt and suffer them with their carriadges to bring
it to
Carrigfergus, so as they may by your good sufferance
at
fynishe their Churche work as they have begonne; wherefore

we require you not to faile, and so we bid you far well
Dublin the io,th of Aprill 1581.

"
To the Lord of the Woodes."
We
find the mayor, in the name of the corporation,

1596
"
to procure a dayes
requesting the lord deputy and council
"
eatche
the
in
from
of
troops
garrison, to repair :he
paye
In this memorial it is stated that the congregation
church.
"
could not be contained in the
queare" and that the body of
"
"
"
was not
the
was
then
uncovered
so as the audianc
churche,"
so numerous as otherwise it would have been.
1600 On the 2d of December we find the mayor requesting

from the governor of this town some of the money granted to
"
that the
build the town walls, to repair the church, and
1
MSS.
The name
[*
*
of this
man was Cantock,

not Coutok.]
203
nominated Papists maie be compelled either to come to churche

or to avoide the Towne."
The mayor,
1606
in a letter to the lord
deputy Chichester.
requests assistance towards repairs of the church, which, he says.

"
was burned and spoyled by the Rebells." He suggests, that
should be laid on the adjoining country for

"
not able to repayre the ruynes
purpose, as they were
thereof, by reason of the povertyes sustained in the late warr."
cess, or collection,
that
1699. May 15, the Assembly ordered, "that all cutters of

Turf on the commons do bring in four pence, per schore load,
in
mony. towards repairs of the church."
were planted in the church-yard. 3

1702
In
a
of
this date we find the following
1712
manuscript
"
memorandum
The following things were done to the
The
present trees
Church, the time of Sam.l Davys, Alderman, was Mayor, Anno

1712. The church being very much out of repair, and in danger
to be ruined, he got it repaired, roofcasted without, and flaged
within ; he gave a silver flagon, a font, and the tables of the
Commandments. Lords Prayer, and Creed, to the Church. The

Church being irregular, he had them put in order,
and ordered a seat for his family going to the Chancel, and a
seats in the
He procured fifty pound

from the Government, by the Bishop of Down's means, for the
building a seat for the officers of the army, and a gallery for
the soldiers.
He promoted the erecting the alter peice. and
opening the east window that was built up a little with stone
and lime he got the wall built about the back part of the
Church by subscription."
the roof of the chancel fell in, and
1754. January 12
soon after the church was new roofed by James Bashford. of
seat in the south ile for his servants.
Belfast. 4
At a meeting of the Assembly on the 3d of April,

they agreed to purchase an organ for this church, the salary of
the organist to be paid out of the rents of some commonable
lands then about to be let.
E. D. Wilson. Esq.. proposed to
1808
2
3
Gill's
MSS.
[In February, 1760, on the invasion of the town by Thurot, the

church was robbed of its plate, and the following October the Irish
House of Commons granted ,17 for to replace it.]
204
give a free house for the organist; but the Assembly rescinded
on the 2ist of the following May. 1
this resolution
the west part of the roof of the church fell

1812, May 1 6
save the north aisle was new roofed the same summer.
in
all
In July, the Marquis of Downshire gave a donation of

to assist in its interior repairs.
1818
state, in
Many
^100
of the seats in this church being in a ruinous

all were taken down, and soon after made
December
new and uniform, agreeable to an act of vestry of the 2ist of

July. The floor was new flagged same time, the gallery in the
west end taken down, and the pulpit removed from the south
Several of the large windows were likewise
to the north side.
made new, and
the others repaired.

The expenses of the
were paid by the claimants; but the seats of a
few persons who refused to pay, or were unable, were publicly
sold by the church-wardens, William Corcoran and Samuel
different seats
Nelson, and the surplus
of the
after paying for the repairs

former owners.
(if any),
seats, given to their
1820 A gallery was put up in the room of the former

one; to its erection E. D. Wilson, Esq., gave ^100; the
remainder was defrayed by the parish.
The
Church
following are some additional notices regarding the
Pillars at the front entrance of the churchyard were

and a new gate hung.
The bell of the church was cracked.
1832, February 15.
It was soon afterwards recast in Belfast, and again put up in
its former place on the i3th September.
"
1839.
During the night of the Big Wind," in January,
the weather-cock on the top of the church steeple was blown
down, and was replaced, in 1841, by the present ball and cross.
The church was reroofed throughout; the roof
1872.
being raised some feet higher than the old one. The church was
also refloored and replastered, under the direction of L. L.
At this time the door into
Macassey, Esq., C.E., architect.
the vestry from the church was enlarged, thus cutting across
the tomb of the founder, and the lid of a stone coffin (supposed
The seats of
to be that of a bishop) was found in the wall.
the church, which were formerly in the centre of the nave and
1831.
erected,
2O 5
aisles,
with a passage by the wall, were altered to their

present
position.
The late Thomas Greer, Esq., and

1875, October 2.
Margaret, his wife, presented the clock fitted in the spire of
the church.
This clock was manufactured by Cooke & Sons,
INTERIOR OF CHURCH,
SHOWING CHANCEL WINDOW ERECTED
1872.
York, to replace the old one which had only one hand on each
dial, and was of primitive construction, having been manufactured in 1796, at Comber, County Down.
The old organ was removed from the gallery, and
1876.
a new organ placed in a chamber built for it at the north side
of the choir.
1879.
supplied.
new heating system under
the church floor
was
2O6
The
1887.
xe-opened
(it
small, old
had been
built
window near the reading-desk was

up) to admit more light, and two
ventilators placed in the walls, one
on either
side.
carved oak pulpit was erected by the Misses

1891.
Johns in memory of their brother, Alexander Johns, Esq.
1892.
The Rectory on
March.
Road was
North
the
completed.
The North Road Cemetery, near the Rectory, was

1893.
furnished with new drainage.
A handsome reading-desk and chair of carved oak

1894.
were erected to the memory of Miss Marianne Johns by some
of her friends.
Same year, the late A. J. A. Lepper, Esq., gave the sum
of ;i,ooo to free the parish of Carrickfergus from that of
Raloo.
1895.
Part of the churchyard wall (about 75 feet) at the
east side, which

at
had
was re-built ;
was furnished with handsome
gas standards, and an additional
fallen the previous December,
the same time the chancel
encaustic tiling, a brass railing,

chalice and patten, all being gifts to the church by the late Wm.
Higgin, Esq., who also built the steps to the Donegal Chapel.
Some time
in the
same year the panelling of
the gallery
and the
Avas renewed, the ancient tablets in the church restored,
various coats of arms painted in their proper colours.
1897.
floor
was
The organ was
tiled throughout.
and
vestry was
repaired,
The
in
1899 the church
also repaired, being
newly ceiled and sheeted with wood.
The new
school-house or parochial hall was built.

given by the late Countess of Shaftesbury
for ever at the rent of one shilling per annum.
There is also a
1900.
It is situated
on a
site
room off the hall which was erected by Colonel Craig and
Hon. Mrs. Skeffington Craig to the memory of their infant
son.
The building was opened for school purposes in October,
same year.
Almost the whole of the south side of the church1901.
wall
and was again rebuilt.
fell,
yard
1902. A set of handsomely bound books was presented by
the present Earl and Countess of Shaftesbury for the use of the
class
the
church.
1904. The church clock was repaired.

In 1907 the church was thoroughly repaired
under the
209
direction of S.
P. Close, Esq., C.E., architect, and E. Caters,

Various ancient architectural remains which were
embedded in the walls were brought to light. The position of
these were noted by Sir Thomas Drew, in his very instructive
Esq:, builder.
made to the Lord Bishop Knox in 1872. He states:

have searched diligently in St. Nicholas's Church for any
trace of its distinctive character, and failed to find it.
In the
absence of record to the contrary, and with the external evidence
report
"
am
afforded, I
induced to believe that the present fabric at least
a wholly English foundation, dating from a period not earlier

than the occupation of Carrickfergus, and the erection or
occupation of the Castle by De Lacy in 1230.
is
"
We may presume that the church was begun at or near the

middle of the thirteenth century, and it may be mentioned in
support of the theory that my attention has recently been directed
by one of the most accomplished of archaeologists, Mr. Sharp, to
the singular coincidence that some of the architectural details of
Carrickfergus have not, in his wide experience, an exact parallel,
save at Byland Abbey, in Yorkshire, built by De Lacy,* invader
of Ireland."
"
The nave
had, on each side, five pointed arches, springing

columns opening into side aisles, and opposite the
eastward arches on each side would appear to have been lateral
chapels, two on the south and two on the north, which occupied
When these
very nearly the area of the present transepts."
columns were stripped, in 1907, it was found that the arches
were semi-circular and not pointed. This portion has been paid
great attention to, and four beautiful early Norman columns have
from
circular
been restored.
The
aisle
space marks the original
and chancel have disappeared, but the

Behind these columns and arches
site.
sat the congregation of the early days.

"
The westward
beginning is marked by a beautiful

which the late works have discovered
embedded in the walls, and from which a chancel arch sprung."
This clustered column has been restored, the chancel still retains
clustered
column,
[* In the Calendar of Documents, Ireland, about the year 1224, it is

stated that a parish clergyman, Andvenus Bruis, had taken possession
of the Church of St. Nicholas, Carrickfergus, and other churches
conferred on the Canons of the Premonstration Order by John De
Courcy. As De Courcy became Earl of Ulster in 1181, and forfeited
his titles in 1203, we come very near the period of the founding of
this church.]
15
the old
window openings, and successful
efforts
have been made
to restore the beauties of the drop arches over the windows.

"
On the north side, in a very usual position, a sepulchre
also
built up, was injured by the alterations in 1872, and
tomb,
'
'
a coped stone, bearing a sculptured crozier, which it contained,

removed from it." This tomb has been disclosed, and where
damaged
it
was
rebuilt in the
same
style as the ancient portion.
This necessitated narrowing the vestry door, and rebuilding the

jambs and heads which had originally been built of cut stones.
The stone work of all the windows has been exposed and
renovated ; also an ancient doorway in the south aisle of the
choir.
In the Will's aisle a pointed window, a large Gothic
arch and pillar, have been discovered in almost perfect condition ;
also the ancient piscina, a little ornamental basin (with a drain
leading to the earth), wherein the sacred vessels were washed,
was found under the south window; it is now protected by a
brass
rail.
In 1908 Colonel and the Hon. Mrs. Skeffington Craig gave
^50
to help to
pay
debt of
off the
of the church in 1907.

In West-street, north
for the renovation
,100
Wesleyan Methodist chapel,

by subscriptions, and opened
side, is a
was
founded in 1811.
It
for public worship

l8l2. 2
by the Rev. Charles Maine, November
built
12,
In 1838. December, a Methodist chapel,* Scotch Quarter,

3
Methodism owes
its
in this place,
origin,
to
some
soldiers of the
Highlanders (42d regiment) by whom a class meeting was

established about 1752. Amongst the first inhabitants \vho joined them
in society were Samuel Hay and John Sloane.
In 1765, their number
in this parish amounted to 30 persons, and in 1823 to about 80 persons.
Royal
Traditions of Old Inhabitants. MSS.

[* On i7th March, 1883, the foundation stones of a New Methodist
Chapel, in West Street, were laid by Mrs. Daniel Bowman, Mrs.
Thomas Girvan, Mrs. David Gray, Mrs. John Bowman, Mrs. William
Burrows, and Mrs. John Rowan. The plot of ground on which the
new church stands was purchased by Miss M. C. Wheeler, for the
sum of ^360, and presented to the worshipping society. In addition to
giving a handsome subscription to the building fund, Mrs. George
Rlackwell, Liverpool, presented the baptismal font, and Mr. Andrew
i$o to purchase a new
Carnegie gave ^125 and Mr. G. E. Blackwell
organ, which was opened January, 10,07.

The following are the names of some Methodist clergymen wo find
1884, Rev.
1843, Rev. E. Cobain
officiating in the annexed years
Andrew Armstrong; 1890, Rev. George Alley; 1804, Rev. C. H.
1890. Rev. Robert
Crookshank, M.A.
1895-6, Rev. J. W. Jon^s
1902, Rev. Richard Cole; 1905, Rrv. Robert Jamison; 1907,
Byers
Rev. Horatio Collier 1909, Rev. James Cathcart.]
:
was opened for public worship.
This chapel
is
now used
as a
school-room.
On
to
the west side, North-street, is a Meeting-house belonging

dissenters, of the presbytery of Templepatrick,
Protestant
and synod of Ulster
it
is
said to have been built about a
century ago.
On Sabbath, April ist, 1827, public worship was held for

the last time in the old meeting-house, North Street, and on
the following day that building began to be taken down.
On
first stone of the present meeting-house was
of the former one by the late Rev. James
Seaton Reid, who gave the sum of .50 towards its erection.
It was opened for public worship on the 8th February, 1829,
May
the pth, the
on the
laid
site
on which occasion the opening services were conducted by the

late Dr. James Morgan, Belfast, and upwards of ^80 received
towards liquidating the debt remaining on that building, which
had cost ^2,000.* From the taking down of the old house
1
On the first
occasionally in the
of dissenters in this place, they met

Irish quarter, now held by Mr. Robert
Hanly. A small meeting-house was afterwards erected a little southeast of the present, where they continued to meet till the above house
was built. In 1740, a Thomas Robinson, for the sum of ^"5 in hand,
made over the ground of the present Meeting-house for 999 years to
Robert Moore, James Craig, David Legg, and James Cobham, at one
penny yearly rent, in trust for the congregation. This was part of a
lease granted by
Tarys, of Whiteha,ven, Cumberland, to Mathew
Robison, of Carrickfergus, July 24, 1719, for 999 years. In 1742, Mary
Wilson, Nat. Byrt, and Dan. Kyrk, attempted to break the lease.
Messrs. Gunning and Mackpeace, of this town, were nominated commissioners, to report upon the merits of this case, and the suit was
settlement
West
mills,
Wm.
abandoned. Tradition of Old Inhabitants. MSS.

[*This rebuilding cost ^2,400, the balance of which was paid
t8431861.
a cost of
in
Rev. James White's house was purchased as a manse at

Rocklands manse was purchased in
it is a freehold.
.650
1906.
1
88 1.
The
Albert
Lecture
Hall and Schools were erected at a
cost of ^"1,240.
A handsome tower was built on the church, and a bell, the gift
of the late Captain William Porter, erected therein.
Two memorial windows were erected by Captain
1897, May 21.
William Porter, J.P., and his second son, Mr. Robert J. Porter,
solicitor, to the memory of Captain Porter, sen., and Mr. Thomas
Johnstone, and his son Robert. Same year the congregation contributed
666 to the Twentieth Century Fund.
Two more memorial windows were erected by Mr. Robert
1909.
Porter,
J. Porter, solicitor, to the memory of his father, Captain
J.P., and one by the other members of the Porter family in memory
Wm.
of their mother.
On Sabbath, September isth, the sum of ^599 5s. 6d. was

1907.
This amount was raised by
collected for the repairs of the church.
212
the opening of the new the congregation worshipped in the
County of Antrim Court-house, the Rector having refused them
till
the use of the Parish Church.
1835, September 3rd, the Rev. James Malcolm was ordained

minister of a Unitarian congregation in Carrickfergus, which
had been formed about two years before, through the exertions
-
of the Rev.
Wm.
Glendy.
first stone of a Unitarian meetinghouse in Joymount Bank was laid, and on the 3rd of the
following September it was opened for public worship by the
Rev. George Harris, Glasgow, and ^74 taken up at a collection
1836, September 6th, the
made
'
to assist in finishing the house.
1838, June iyth, Mr. Malcolm demitted his charge, and on

the ist of the following October the Rev. J. X. Porter* was
the free-will offerings of the people

^448 55. 6d. \vas handed in at
the vestibule of the church in cash, and the balance paid later.
This
was a record collection for the oldest church in the General Assembly.
Miss Scotland gave the sum of
100 to provide free seats for the
:
poor.]
Mr. Porter was
of 23 years minister of Joymount

accepted a call to \Varrington, in
Lancashire, where he remained until 1872, when failing health induced
him to resign he died in 1875.
The Rev. William Smyth and Rev. Leonard Hunges were ordained
ministers in succession.
Subsequently, services were conducted by
different ministers, but none of them were ordained to the congregation.
At present the services are conducted on Sabbath evenings by the Rev.
J. M'C leery, Raloo.]
[In 1852 the Presbytery of Carrickfergus reported to the General
Assembly that on the 25th November, 1851, they formed a second
[*
for
Bank congregation, and
upwards
in
1863
congregation in Carrickfergus, to the pastoral charge of which, on

the 3rd of March, 1852, they ordained the Rev. James Warwick.
Mr. Warwick officiated in the third congregation, Ballynahinch, where
his labours were highly appreciated, and from whom he received a
He was ordained in thevery complimentary address and gold watch.
County Antrim Court-house, where the congregation worshipped from
1851 until 1856.
In 1855 the congregation obtained a lease (for Si years, from the
Marquis of Donegal!) of a plot of ground at Joymount, on which
to build a church, the foundation stone of which was laid on the
i4th June, 1855, by the Rev. Henry Molyneaux, Larne, and opened
for public worship by the Rev. Henry Cooke, D.D., LL.D., September
late
2ist,
1856.
Mr.
W arwick
r
died 24th July, 1882, and
was succeeded by
S. E. Stewart, B.A., of Cairncastle, County

his death Mr. Stewart was Moderator of the
the Rev.
Antrim. At the time of
Carrickfergus Presbytery,
and Chaplain to H.M. Forces in Carrickfergus. He died August 27th,

1907, and was succeeded by the Rev. John Young Minford, B.A.,
Carrowdore, son of the late Hugh J. Minford, Parkgate, County
Antrim, who was ordained January 3Oth, 1908.]
[In 1863 a Baptist congregation was formed in Carrickfergus, and
Under his ministrythe Rev. William Hamilton was the first pastor.
1
2I 3
chosen pastor in his stead, and on the 4th of same month was
ordained.
Adjoining Quay-gate,
is
a chapel belonging to Indepen-
by subscription. It was founded September u,

1820, on ground given for that purpose by Henry C. Ellis,
Esq., and opened for worship by the Rev. Richard Cope,
L. L. D. September 16, 1821. l
Adjoining, on the south of the town, is an ancient CASTLE
dents, erected
belonging to the crown, occupied as a military garrison, and

the local Baptist congregation on the Albert Road increased in numbers.
Mr. Hamilton died July, 1888, and was succeeded by the Rev. Alfred
G. Haste, who was ordained June 28th 1889, and resigned January,
Rev. Albert Woodward succeeded, and his ministry lasted from
1893.
July 1895.
(He resigned to go to Oswaldtwistle,
Rev. M. V. W. Dawson, M.A., followed, from February,
1896, until August,
1896, and the Rev. J. Stanley Flook, from
February, 1897, until April, 1905. At present the church is without a
pastor, and the usual services are conducted by supplies from Belfast.]
1
The first pastor here of this sect was the Rev. George Hamilton,
who died 1817. He was succeeded by the Rev. Wm. Flinter, who
removed hence in 1822. Their present minister is the Rev. J. Hanson.
[Rev. J. Hanson was succeeded by the Rev. John Assy in 1834;
from 1852 till 1858 the Rev. James Duggan
1861, Rev. W. D.
Corkin
1863, Rev. VV. Fletcher; 1865, Rev. Edward Towcock, who
was in the same year succeeded by the Rev. William Graham. Mr.
Graham was a native of County Tyrone, and was born in the year
1822.
His early life was spent amongst the Primitive Wesleyans.
When 22 years of age he was appointed to their ministry, and in
coming to Carrickfergus was given an invitation to become the pastor
of the old meeting-house at the Quay Gate, on the West side of the
Castle Parade, and was solemnly recognised at a service held on the
i8th October, 1865.
The Revs. James Bain. Straid, Robert Sewell,
Derry, John White, Belfast, David Querne, Ballycraigy, J. Johnston,
and
James Stirling, Armagh, took part in the service. The
Newry,
congregation increased in numbers, and a new church was built on the
Albert Road at a cost of .1,500, the foundation stone of which was
A new
laid in 1878, and the church opened for public worship in 1879.
Mr. Graham
gallery has been added since, and a heating apparatus.
He was
resigned in 1887, and died July 27th, 1888, aged 66 years.
succeeded by the Rev. James Lyon, Hackney College, London, who
was ordained March 2gth, 1888.
In 1890 the fine hall was built, with class-room and vestry, and
in 1897 a pulpit was erected in the church, bearing the following
" In
loving memory of William Vint, John Jack, James
inscription
Herdman, and Hugh Todd, for many years associated with this church
as deacons."
A mission hall was erected in Fden, upon a site bequeathed
1898.
by the late George M'Ferran, Esq., for that purpose.
12 a year, has been capitalised,
The head rent of the church, of
and paid off, thanks, in a great measure, to the generosity of the
late Miss Penelope Ridley, Rocklands.
Half an acre of ground on the North Road was secured,
1901.
on a lease in perpetuity from Lord Shaftesbury, on which to build a
rr.anse, which was opened May 11, 1902.]
June, 1893,
Lancashire.)
till
214
magazine to the northern
district.
stands on a rock that
It
* cf
projects into the sea, so that, at common tides, three sides
the building are enclosed by water.
The greatest height of the
rock is at its southern extremity, where it is about thirty feet,
shelving considerably towards the land, the walls of the castle
following exactly
its
different windings.
VIEW OF THE CASTLE FROM THE WEST
Towards the town are two
towers, t called
PIER.
from
their
shape
1
half-moons, and between these is the only entrance, which is
defended by a strait passage, with embrasures for fire-arms.
About the centre of this passage was formerly a draw-bridge ;
a part of the barbican that protected the bridge can still be seen.
dam, west of the castle, is believed to have been originally
made
to supply the ditch at the entrance with water.
the half-moons
Between
a strong gate, above which is a machicolation,

or aperture, for letting fall stones, melted lead, or the like, on
[* Since the
is
opening of the new Harbour
in
washed by the tide.]

[tThe towers were
1885, only
one side
is
originally complete circles, but have been

altered to their present shape some years ago.
number of the old
yellow sandstones, with the mouldings still to be seen on them, are
A gracefully
built into the new straight wall of the east tower.
carved stone, supposed to be the top of a small window, is also seen
built high up in the modern masonry.
The upper portion of the eastern tower was evidently used as a
A modern
chapel, and the altar window facing due east still remains.
fireplace has been built across the north window, which can only be
seen from the outside. When M'Skimmin wrote the above description,
he was evidently not aware of the use that had been made of the
upper portion of the tower, but on another page he gives a survey
by George Clarkson, who has noted

and chapel."]
this
"
fair
and comley building
1
On the south are traces of a semi-circulat gate that led into the
inner yard.
217
Inside this gate is a portcullis, and an aperture *
for the like purpose as that just mentioned ; the arches on each
side of this aperture are of the Gothic kind, and the only ones
the assailants.
In the gun-room of these towers

observed about the building.
are a few pieces of light ordnance. A window in the east tower,
NORMAN WINDOW
inside, is
IN
EAST TOWER, CARRICKFERGUS CASTLE.
ornamented with round
pillars
the columns are five
feet high, including base and capital, and five inches and a
half in diameter. The centre column seems to be a rude attempt
[* The aperture mentioned inside the gate is
now no ordnance in the gun-room. When the
built up, and there are

castle was used as a
garrison the apartments over the vaults were occupied by the officers.]
2l8
at
the
Ionic
the
flank
columns
have
the
of
leaves
the
This window,
Corinthian; their bases consist of two toruses.
the corners of the building, the arch over the entrance, and loopare of the same kind of yellowish stone, noticed in the
angles of the bastions of the town-wall, and buttresses of the
church.
holes,
Within these gates is the lower yard, or balium; on the

guard-room and a barrack ; the latter was built in
1802. ll Opposite these are large vaults, said to be bomb-proof,
over which are a few neat apartments occupied by the officers
of the garrison, ordnance storekeeper, and master gunner. These
rooms were built on the site of former barracks (that held five
companies of foot) at the same time as the barrack opposite.
A little southward are the armourer's forge and a furnace for
heating shot ; near which, on the outer wall of the castle, is a
right, are the
small projecting tower, called the lion's den.

Southward, on the right, is the passage into the inner yard,
or upper balium, by a gate with a semi-circular arch, above
which is a long aperture, circular at the top.
Inside, this
aperture opens considerably ; and, on each side, are niches in
the wall, apparently to protect those who defended the gate
northward of which are several like apertures, and, on the south,
a square tower, near which is a small door, or sally-port, with

semicircular arch, and ornamented.
The openings above this
and in the wall, appear to have been originally intended

for the discharging of arrows ; the top of the wall overhead
seems to have been formerly garrated for a like purpose.
Within this yard, which is encompassed by a high wall, is
gate,
a small magazine, built a few years since, several store-houses,

and the keep, or donjon, a square tower 90 feet high. Both
the south and east sides of this tower face the inner yard, its
west wall forming a part of the outside wall of the building ; its
north wall faces the outer yard.
The walls of the keep are
eight feet ten inches thick ; the entrance
semi-circular door in the second story-
entrance
is
a small door.*
now
built up,
is
on the
On
the
east
left
by a
of the
by which was formerly
1
It is opposite those houses that the mayor of Carrickfergus is
[was] annually sworn into office.
[*The door to the left of the tower which was built up is now
opened, and access may be had to the top of the tower by the stone
stairs.
In the armoury are a number of Boer rifles captured at the late

the two
war, and several of the rooms are used for military stores
;
2I 9
a passage in the S. E. corner, by helical stone stairs, to the

In this passage were loopfloor and top of the tower.
holes for the admission of air and light ; and opposite each
ground
story a small door that opened into the different apartments.

At present the ascent to the top is partly by wooden stairs
inside.
The ground story of the keep is bomb-proof, with small
It is believed to have been
looking into the inner yard.
anciently a state prison, and is now the principal magazine in
this garrison; several rooms in the other stories are occupied as
slits
an armoury, and for other military stores.

tower are two small houses; that on the
the mouth of the passage ; the other, on the
to
have been intended for a
On
S.
S.
the top of the

E. corner covers
W.
corner, seems
sentinel.
The tower is divided into five stories ; the largest room

was formerly in the third story, with semi-circular windows. It
was called Fergus's dining-room, and was 25 feet 10 inches
On a stone over a chimneyhigh, 40 feet long, and 38 broad.
piece in this room, was an inscription, believed to be in the
much obliterated, that it could not be
1
This stone
most
plain at a little distance.
appeared
was taken down on the repairs of the room in 1793, but the
The corner stones of the
characters could not be deciphered.
a projecting belt on the
ancient
and
tower,
windows, loop-holes,
Irish character, but so
read
it
north
and
west,
are
of
the
same
yellowish
stone
already
mentioned.
Within the keep was formerly a draw-well,* 37 feet deep,

the water of which was anciently celebrated for medicinal pur"
in all Scurbutuck disorders, the fame and
poses, especially
well drawing numbers to it, to the no small
3
advantage of the Town."
Respecting it we find the following
"March 16, 1695,
curious entry in the records of this place:
success of this
small houses on the top of the tower have been removed.

Fergus's
dining-room has been divided into two apartments, the floor above
removed and the two stories divided into three.]
MSS.
The draw-well mentioned has been cleaned
'Gill's
[*
out, a wall has been
and covered with a trap door. In June, 1843, the late

James Stannus, Harbour Master, in cleaning out this well,
discovered a seal with a large wooden handle
it was of yellow brass,
in the centre was a three-masted ship with her sails furled, above the
main mast was the Irish harp, on either side of which was an anchor,
See Old Series Ulster
serpent, leopard's head, and Port Carrickfergus.
Journal of Archeology, Vol. 5., in which is a copy of seal.]
built
round
it
Mr.
'Gill's
MSS.
220
Ordered, that new buckets be provided for the Castle Well, and
same be cleared, and the holes stopped, at the charge
that the
of the corporation ; and that Morgan Grogan and Moses Garvan,

be appointed to deliver the water out of said well, upon whom
a yearly salary is to be settled."
"
a great quantity of old Iron
On
this cleaning
taking place,
was taken out of it of an

uncommon make," from which time " it was observed the water
failed in performing those Cures it had been famous for."
The
"
water came out of
a Crevice in the face of the Rock, not any
"
"
kind of Earth being nigh it ;
it was light, and of
a Sweetish
1
taste.''
This well
The
now
is
nearly filled
up with
rubbish.
1567
given in a
"
The buildings of the said castle
survey by George Clarkson
on the south part is three towers, viz. the gate-house, tower in
the middle thereof, which is the entry at a draw-bridge over a
following notice of this castle
is
and in said tower is a prison and porter lodge,

;
over the same a fair lodging, called the constables lodging ;
in the courtain between the gate-house and west tower in
corner, being of divers squares called Cradyfergus, is a
dry moat
and
and
the
fair
and comley building, a chapel, and divers houses of office, on

the ground, and above the great chamber, and the lords lodging,
all
which
is
now
in great decaie as well in the couverture being
lead, also in timber

it
will
and
glass,
and without help and reparation
soon come to utter ruin."
In the grants of the
i3th of Queen Elizabeth, to Sir

Castle of Belfast, Castle Mowbray,
Castle Toome, and the Monastery of Massereene, &c., he is to
"
hold them
b y the service of one knight" as of the Castle of
Thomas Smyth, of
the
Carrickfergus. In the grant of James I. to Sir James Hamilton,

of the Abbeys of Bangor, Holy wood and the Copeland Isles ;
he is to hold them by fealty, as of the Castles of Dublin and
Carrickfergus; and in the deed of Sir James Hamilton to Con.
O'Neill and Sir
Hugh Montgomery,
of lands in the county of
"
Down, they are to hold them in free and common soccage"

"
as of the Castle of Carrickfergus ; also in a re-grant from
to Geo. Sexton, of
2
is to be observed.
condition
the
like
lands in the same county,
As a part of this castle formerly served for a prison to the
of Antrim, it was probably that prison just noticed in
Con. O'Neill and Sir
Hugh Montgomery,
county
1
Gill's
MSS.
Grand
Inquisition of the
County Down.
221
the half -moons
the assizes for that county were likewise held

In the charter of James I. the castle is
within the castle.
declared to be in the county of Antrim, to which the judges of

assize are to have liberty to pass at all times to hold assizes for
"
the same county.

This
fair lodging," occupied by the conis
believed
to
have
been
that in the second story of the
stable,
The
constable was always a person of high rank

appears from the following account of those who
held the office
Until the reign of Edward IV. he was (save in
the minority of the heir) always nominated by the earls of
east tower.
and
trust, as
Ulster,
the castle being part of their hereditary possessions.

earl of March and Ulster, son and heir of Richard
Edward,
Plantagenet, duke of York, ascending the throne by the title of

the earldom of Ulster devolved to the crown. 1
Edward IV.
Several important privileges were formerly attached to this

1568 The charter of queen Elizabeth declares, that
office.
"
by reason of his office," he is a freeman of this corporation,

and the mayors were always sworn into office before him of
It also appears from our records, that he received
his deputy.
the king's share of the customs of this port ; and that he and his
warders (20 Englishmen) had annually 100 cows grazed free
He had also the best fish out of each
by this corporation.
that
arrived
from time to time within our liberties,
boat
fishing
by the
is
title
of the
"
tythe of fish."
1326, August 1 8, Thomas Smocke appointed constable, who

He was bound to
the first * we have discovered in the office.
supply
this
castle
provision, and had a liberty of

him by the lord deputy and council for
with
^28 6 8 granted to
3
its defence.
1
1327
John de Athye was
salary of 100 marks, at which
Robert Savage, to deliver Bryan
his custody, for the security of
to be kept in this castle
till
appointed constable, with a

time a writ was directed to
Fitz-Henry O'Neill, then in
the peace, to said constable,

further orders.

Records of Carrickfergus. This
fish continued to be taken by the

when the custom was
military officer commanding here so late as 1755,
abolished, through the exertions of Henry Eilis, Esq.
De Serland. See Calendar
[*i2i5, the first constable was William
a
of Documents, Ireland.]
3
222
1 34
we
Edward Savage.
William Mercer, the same year;
learn no particulars. 1
1343 In May, this year, an order was sent to William of

Epworth, treasurer of Ulster, to pay Reyneldo De Richmond,
constable,
40 per annum, as his salary, for said office.
1388 The castle in the hands of the crown, by the death
of Edmond Mortimer, earl of March and Ulster, and by reason
of the minority of his son Roger. 2
Robert Lang
1389, October 14.
appointed
constable.
Same
year Lang's grant was revoked, and a mandate sent to

Lang, Edmond Savage, and William Mueve, to deliver the keys
De Malshel, nominated to the office.

1390 On the 20th of February, an order was sent by
the king to the justiciary of Ireland, John De Stanley, to get
In this order the
said castle repaired, and to keep it secured.
"
castle is described as in a wretched state,
totally destitute and
desolate of defence," to the great danger of the loss of said
3
castle and of the country adjoining.
1400 Peter Dobyn, constable. The castle in the hands of
the crown, by reason of the minority of Edmond, son and heir
of Roger Mortimer, earl of Marche and Ulster.
His salary,
for the first year of office, was the profits of the water-mills of
to Sir Gilbert
Carrickfergus.
1406 Sir Stephen Scroop, lord deputy, by this warrant,

dated from Drogheda, appoints Geoffrey Bentley constable, with
a salary of ^40 per annum, until Edmond, son and heir of
Roger Mortimer, a minor, should be of

is
said that the castle
"
age.
In
this
warrant
it
stands in danger of destruction unless
some remedy be quickly applied." 4

1408 Nicholas O'Roll, constable. 1427 The castle again
hands of the crown, on the death of Edmond, earl of
Marche and Ulster, who died at Trim, 1422, and during the
Sir
minority of Richard, duke of York, his cousin and heir.
James Whyte, constable. In his petition to the crown, he said,
that he had received news of O'Donnell, with his Scots, coming
"
to destroy this castle,
to the great damage of the Whole
Country of Ireland." That he had kept the custody of said
castle for two years without fee or reward, save 10 marks; but
in the
s
4
Lodge's
Records
Records
Records
Collections.
Rolls Office, Dublin.

Rolls Office, Dublin.
Rolls Office, Dublin
223
was unable to keep it longer without relief, which, it appears,

was immediately granted by the lord deputy and council. 1
William Falconbridge, constable.
1461
1494 An Irish
parliament which sat at Drogheda, before Sir Edward Poynings,
knt. declared, that none but an Englishman could hold this
office.
Charles Egerton, constable.
1591
This person
rilled
up the ditch that enclosed the castle towards the land, and
raised up heaps of earth on the quay close to its walls.
By his
advice several inhabitants erected dwellings on those places, to
be exempt from the taxes of the town ; but the corporation
complaining to the lord deputy, they were ordered to contribute
of the town, as the other inhabitants. 3

In the 45th of the reign of queen Elizabeth, Sir Roger
Langford, knt. was appointed constable, and afterwards by
James I. joint constable with Sir Faithful Fortescue, each having
the fee of 33. 4d. per day, and 20 wardens under their command
to the support
1661, March 14, Sir Thomas Fortescue was made

constable, with the salary of 6s. 8d. per day, and 8d. a piece
for 20 warders. 5
Nathaniel Foster, constable. 6 1672
1671
at 8d. each.
William Petty states the constable's salary at 23. 6d. per

he mentions a clerk of the stores
day, but notices no warders
at is. 8d. per day; and a matross, at 8d. per day.
1704 Sir
James Ware, in his Annals, takes no notice of a constable, but
Sir
mentions a store-keeper, at
and a matross at ^13 13
The
Stewart
^40
per annum, a gunner at
18
5,
9, yearly.
last person who held the

Banks, of Belfast, esq.
office
He
of constable,
was
attended
annually,
(agreeably to the charters of Elizabeth and James. I.) in the
castle, to see the mayor sworn into office, but performed no
* now attached to this

castle, are a
persons
governor, with a salary of .180 10 per annum: this office has
7
a store-keeper, with a house, garden,
long been a sinecure
other duties.
3
4
6
5
Lodge's
Lodge's
Records
Lodge's
Lodge's
Records
The
Collections.
Irish Statutes.
Collections.
of Carrickfergus.
Peerage.
Peerage.
of Carrickfergus.
[*At present the

Ordnance Stores are:
officers
in
Captain A.
charge
J.
of
Fisher,
the
and Army
charge; sub-
Castle
officer
in
conductor (W.O.), L. Welsh principal foreman, W. Booth.]

7
Fynes Moryson, in 1598, states the annual salary of the governor
it appears that the office was usually held with that of
at
182 10
The following are the
governor of this town and the Clandeboys.
;
224
and ^300 per annum; an armourer,

and a master gunner ^54, yearly.
The
j8, his assistant,
following events, connected with this building, have
not been previously noticed
earl of Strafford,
lord deputy, writing to

1639 Thomas,
"
the council in England, says
also humbly conceive, that
it is necessary in those doubtful times, his majesty's Castle of
Carrickfergus, a place of Good Consequence to the Security of
We
that part of the Country, and near decayed, be repaired, at

least So far as the present affairs require."
Same year, in a
letter to Secretary Vane, he says, after mentioning the above
"It will be equally fit now as then, to repair the

Castle of Knockfergus." 1
1674 The castle was ordered to be furnished with 20
matter:
pieces of cannon.
3
It mounted 30 pieces of ordnance.
1711
January n,
1754, about fifty feet of the outer wall, on the south, fell down.
Same
new roofed with lead, and

4
March
Thomas
17, I755by
Covy,
1769 The Board of Ordnance ordered a survey of the
"
state of this castle, in the report made, it is stated
The large
was
year the tower began to be
finished
and square Tower, which is used as a Magazine and Ordnance

Store House, is in good Repair, and is an exceeding good
5
Building for that service.
1771
Many of the Hearts of Steel were confined here.
names
we
of such persons as
find
previously noticed in this work

William Piers; 1574, Sir Nicholas
in
:
that office,
Earl
1463,
Malby
1584,
who have
of
Sir
not been
Douglas
1568,
Henry Bagnell
Arthur Chichester
Sir Hugh Clotworthy
1620,
1625,
Edward, Viscount Chichester
1628, Arthur Chichester, Esq.
1639,
Sir Arthur Chichester; 1642, Robert Munroe
1649, Edmund Ellis;
Thomas Cooper; 1661, Sir Thomas
16:56,
1649, Thomal Dallyal
Fortescue
1668, Arthur, Earl of Donegall
1675, Arthur, Earl of
1682, Lord Aungier
Donegall
1689, Thomas Maxwell; 1690, Col.
Charles MacCarty Moore;
Lord
Francis,
1763,
Convvay
1728,
Nehemiah Donellan
1810, Francis Dundas
1809, Francis Dundas
Sir
Baldwin
Sir
Moncreif.
1828,
1823.
Leigton
Henry
1883, Fourth Marquis
[From 1828, Third Marquis of Donegall
of Donegall
Fifth
of
1889,
Marquis
Donegall
1904, Sixth Marquis
It may be added that
of Donegall, who is now five years of age.
1604,
Sir
the youthful Marquis

ancient fortress.]
1
:1
is
at
Strafford 's Letters.

Essex's Letters.
Journals of the Irish
all
times entitled to free quarters in this
House
of
Commons.
MSS.
Gill's
r>
Journals of the Irish
House
of
Commons.
225
The tower of this castle was made into a barrack,

outer walls repaired, and furnished with 27 pieces of
artillery.
January 22, the corporation held a meeting, and
to
petition the lord lieutenant against the tower being
agreed
1793
and
its
converted into a barrack, as it endangered the safety of the

In the following year,
town, the petition was not attended to.
a well was sunk on the north side of the great tower; but the
water was brackish.
1797
Early in April, a general rising of the United
Irishmen being intended, a plan was formed to seize the castle.
Several of the conspirators belonged to the R. I. Artillery and
Fifeshire Fencibles, then quartered in it; the names of those
the former were
Magee, Darby, M'Connell, M'llrevy,
M'Clure, Adams, and Mansfield of the latter, Reid and Dean.
of
were Roman Catholics, the others Protestants.

Mansfield became informer ; but afterwards deserted, was taken,
Reid
and transported. His comrades were also transported
The four
first
and Dean, who were non-commissioned

were not taken.
In the
1799
J.
Smith,
Wm.
latter part
Falloon,
officers,
deserted,
but
this year, Luke Teeling, Rev.

O'Pre, Bernard Magennis, and
of
Hans
Wilson, state prisoners, were brought from Belfast, and

confined in this tower.
-
1814 A small square tower, on the south, was taken down

and rebuilt. 1815 The lead covering was taken off the keep,
and it was arched with stone, and covered with Roman cement.
This roofing cost ^482, besides cement, and its weight rent the
north wall
James Boyd, architect.

1834 During the months of March and April the arms,
ammunition, and other military stores were removed from the
castle to Dublin and Charlemont, the cannon dismounted, and
A
the storekeeper and armourer discharged on pension.
:
Serjeant's party
was
remained as a garrison, which, in June, 1839,
also withdrawn.
The following
are some additional events
regarding the
which have not been noticed in this part

In 1 2 10 King John visited Carrickfergus, and
castle
The castle
to have stayed in the castle.
in the hands of Hugh de Lacy.
1252. The castle was
Queen Consort.
16
made
is
thought
was afterwards placed
part of the dowry of Eleanor,
226
1316.
1603.
Edward Bruce besieged the castle.

Con O'Neill, Chief of South of Upper Clandeboy,
was confined here. It is thought that the small tower called the
lion's den was the place of his confinement, as it is the only
tower that has a wall shelving down to the water. This tower
was rebuilt in 1814.
The castle taken by General Munro, and the Earl
1642.
of Antrim imprisoned.
The castle surrendered to Sir Charles Coote and

1649.
Colonel Robert Venables, and Sir Charles made Governor by
the Commonwealth.
Castle sustained a siege of six days' duration from

1689.
the troops of Duke Schomberg, when they surrendered on the
23rd of August.
1745. The town and castle were garrisoned by the Militia,
and a company of the Belfast Volunteers. The latter, who had
been armed, clothed and disciplined at their own expense,
continued here ten days.
The town and

1760.
Commodore Thurot.
castle
besieged
by
the
French
In 1855 Carrickfergus Castle was made the head-quarters

of the Artillery of the North of Ireland. The Antrim Artillery
Militia mustered upwards of 600 men, and the castle not being
adapted to accommodate more than seventy or eighty, the men

were billeted on the inhabitants.
1857, August 1 8th, six twenty-four pound guns were placed
in the castle on the grand battery, under the superintendence
of Captain Munro of the Artillery Staff.
The guns available
for active service at this time were:
six 64 pounders, seven
32 pounders, six 24 pounders, and i mortar.
1889, October, a tunnel was made through the solid rock
on the south-west side of the castle, through which a tramway

was to run to the East Pier. The tunnel is five feet in diameter,
the mouth of which is secured by a heavy wooden door.
At
the end of the tramway at the East Pier head a large crane
was placed for the discharge of torpedoes and other war
material, and another crane was placed at the mouth of the
tunnel inside the castle, for the purpose of lifting material for
storage above. A tank was made in the castle yard for steeping
Another aperture was made in the castle wall, also
guncotton.
on the west side, but further north than the tunnel, for the
227
purpose of running
off the
water from the tank into the town
sewer, which empties itself into the old harbour.

It
in the
has been stated that notwithstanding the expense entailed

this tramway, it has been used but once within
making of
memory
these twenty years.
1898, September i6th, four
new guns were placed
The weapons
castle for drill purposes.
are
rifle
in the
muzzle loaders,
each weighing 6| tons, and 7 inch bore.

A few years ago, while some alterations were being made
in the Castle Gardens Battery beside the entrance, an opening
to an underground passage was discovered leading from what
was formerly the shore to
How
under the entrance towers.

say, as it has never been
built of large field stones, with a slab
far this passage led
It
fully explored.
The entrance
roof.
is
is
right
we cannot
now
filled
up.
This year the training of Royal Antrim Artillery

1901.
Militia took place at Lough Swilly, the guns in the Castle
Garden Battery not being of the latest type for drill purposes.
From the want of proper literary memorials, the founding *
of this building is lost in the depths of antiquity ; but according
it was erected
by Fergus I. king of Scotland, about
320 years before the Christian era. This account is, however,
fabulous, as there is no evidence of this country having castles
of lime and stone for many centuries after the age in which
Some have supposed it to
Fergus is said to have reigned.
have been founded by the Danes ; but they built only the
castles of Dublin, Cork, and Waterford; 1 and the first castle
reared of lime and stone by the Irish, was the castle of Tuam,
in 1161, by Roderick O'Connor, the monarch, which was called
to tradition,
by
his people,
who were
astonished at
its
novelty, the wonderful
[For a list of the regiments that have garrisoned the castle in the
different years, see New Appendix.]
In the Calendar of
[*This castle was founded before 1215.
The King (John) commands Philip
Documents, Ireland, it is stated
de Ulcot to discharge from his custody all the prisoners taken in the
Castle of Carrickfergus who are not knights or gentlemen, taking from
them fines according to their condition and ability. The same year
the King commands William de Serland, constable of Carrickfergus,
to admit and receive Geoffrey de Marisco, the King's Justiciary, into
the King's Castle there, with any force he may wish to place in it
:
for the defence of the castle, and neighbouring parts, acting in all
things touching the castle and its custody by the advice of the justiciary
according to the King's honour and advantage.]
1
Cox's Historv of Ireland.
228
castle.
Indeed, the Irish seem to have had a marked aversion
to stone buildings their poets or bards inveighed bitterly against

the erection of such, from a belief that they would one day fall
:
into the
hands of
having made peace
their enemies.
In 1177, John
De Courcy
Mac Mahons, presented

which Mac Mahon
himself,
by
with the
with two castles built
their chief
soon after
INSIDK VIEW OF AN AIEKTURE ABOVE THE GATE

OF THE INNER YARD IN CARRICKFERGUS CASTI.E.
FROM AN OLD WOOD CUT, 1839.
"
it
was contrary to his Nature to>
demolished, declaring that
3 "
Con
live within cold Walls, while the Woods were so nigh.
O'Neill, who was created earl of Tyrone by Henry VIII.,.
2
3
Ware's Antiquities. Lyttleton's History of Henry

O'Connor's Dissertation.
II.
22Q
cursed
who should even
all his posterity
was not
erect stone houses
and
the beginning of the fifteenth century, that the

Irish began to erect castles of lime and stone. 1
The erection of this castle has, with a greater degree of
it
till
probability, been ascribed to

arrived during the reign of
more
De Courcy
some of those English
Henry
II.,
or John.
who
settlers
This
is
the
a colony here, and secured

likely,
his conquest of the maritime parts of Ulster, by building castles
and forts 3 ; hence we infer that he was probably the founder
as
settled
This hypothesis receives support from its

the
remaining long
hereditary property of the earls of Ulster,
the first of whom was John De Courcy.
It has besides all the
of this building.
great characteristics (as high towers, massy walls, and semicircular door-ways and windows) of the Norman castles, known
to have been erected in
early
English
settlers
England
in
this
at the
country
above period. 4
The
secured
their
also
5
the first of the kind reared in
possessions by similar fortresses
this kingdom was at Carrig, county of Wexford, by Robert
6
In the
Fitz-Stephen, shortly after the landing of Strongbow.
:
county Wexford, the square castles on the coast, are still called
.Strongbow's castles ; the projecting fascia, or fillet in the keep,
is one of the great characteristics that distinguishes the Norman
We
also deem the following

castles.
corroborative of what has been advanced.
circumstances
The
highly
* of
antique seal
the seal of the town on

[* The old seals are three in number
P a S e 35 nas a representation of the castle in high relief within the
central area.
The second is of the port and customs of the town,
and bears upon the shield three harps of the Brian Boru type. The
this seal is supposed to
third is called the Mayor's Seal, noted above
be really Italian, being the official seal of the Chamberlain of Aquila,
In 1183 there was an
Brother Bernard of the Franciscan Order.
Archdeacon of Down named Bernard, and the seal is synchronous with
his age.
See article by Mr. Vinycomb in the Royal Society of
Antiquarians Journal for March, 1893.
at
1906, November, an interesting relic was put up for sale
Brighton on the gth inst., in the shape of a circular seal box made
The
for the Antient and Loyal Corporation of Carrickfergus, 1787.
The
box weighed 5^ ounces, and realised
$ IDS., after keen bidding.
name of the purchaser was not disclosed.]
1
Lyttleton's History of Henry II.
:
2
:i
Gill's
MSS.
Hanmer's Chronicle.
Lodge's Peerage.
plan of an ancient
castle in Grose's
Military Antiquities, page 336, exactly represents the castle of Carrickfergus.
5
Grose's Antiquities of Ireland.
6
Hav's Rebellion in the Countv of Wexford.
4
Rees's
Cyclopedia.
230
mayor of this corporation is a spread eagle, exactly similar

to the crest of the noble family of De Courcy, senior baron
of Ireland; and several silver coins of Henry II. have been
the
found about the building.

In the works of the celebrated Dean Swift (Dublin edition,
1762) is a humorous letter from the Dean to George Falkener,
printer, in which the following pleasant allusion is made to
"Before his descent upon the
Fergus, the supposed founder:
Pickish Scotland, he raised that famous structure called to this
SEAL OF THE PORT AND CUSTOMS OF CARRICKFERGUS.
day Carrickfergus, after his name, the most mysterious piece of

architecture now on earth (not excepting the pyramids of the
Egyptian Masons, and their hieroglyphics, or signs), as any
skilful free-mason
may
easily perceive by measuring it according

built it as a lodge for his College
of Free-masons, in these days called Druids."
to the rules of the art.
Near the quay

site
is
of a former one,
MSS.
He
the custom-house, built in 1797, on the

founded in I639: 1 in it resides the
231
The following are the names of such

surveyor of the port.
gentlemen as we find presiding over the customs, in the annexed
William
years:
1639,
John
comptroller.
Parry,
1652,
Dawson, collector. 1667, Roger Lyndon, customer, Samuel
Weby, surveyor. 1683, Thomas Calcot, surveyor. 1704,
Edward Lyndon, customer. 1709, James Spaight, surveyor.
1720, George Spaight, surveyor, died May, 1770.
1740,
Charles Macartney, collector
about this time, the revenues of
the port of Larne were separated from those of Carrickfergus.

Same year,
1770, K. A. Price, surveyor, died January, 1774.
MAYOR
S SEAL.
Sir William Kirk, surveyor

superannuated 1813, and was
succeeded by Thomas Millar.
In January, 1825, the office of port-surveyor was abolished,
and that of principal coast-officer * substituted.
:
1827, May, the custom-house was given to the water-guard.

[* The following are the names of those we have noticed as
commanding the coastguards, or coast-officers
1843, Captain John
:
Bowie, R.N., Inspector and Commander of Coastguards; 1852, Captain

Horatio Blair, R.N.
1854, Captain Little
1856, Captain George H.
Commander J. E. Elliot, R.N.
Gardner, R.X.
1861-5,
1858,
Commander William Swinbourne 1868-70, Commander H. G. Belson,
R.N".
E.
R.
Mathus
Commander
1889,
1877, Captain Hopper; 1884,
Commander Fullerton 1890, Captain Rocheford, R.N. 1892, Captain
Fanshaw 1894, Captain C. T. Twiner 1895-6, Captain R. R. Brook
1897-9, Captain Saumery Dacre Lacy
1900, Captain James Cuddy,
R.N.
1907-9, Commander
1902-7, Commander H. L. Risk, R.N.
Dawes.]
;
232
The quay
is
on the
S.
W.
of the
castle,
and
is
neat and
convenient, having been much improved within the last thirty

years.
Upwards of ^1,400 have been expended on it. ^500
of which were granted by the Irish parliament, in 1783, and

64 17 6 by the Assembly, in 1804.
In 1821, the dock being much choaked with mud and sand,
a number of gentlemen in the town, with the approbation of
the mayor, associated for its improvement.

sum of money
was subscribed for this purpose, and each vessel unloaded at
the quay ordered to pay 2d. per ton register, or a subscription

of one shilling per ton, and afterwards one penny per ton for
two
Vessels coming into the harbour by contrary winds,

years.
or to get ballast, to pay one penny per ton register, except their
owners belong to
is.
this
town
id. for every ton shipped.
all
vessels taking ballast to
Those monies are
still
pay
collected,
and applied to the cleaning and improvements of the harbour *

In the town is a free-school,! supported by the subscription
of ladies and gentlemen of the place; and also a daily
Lancasterian school, maintained in a like manner This last was
Another free-school has been
opened February i, 1820.
established, agreeably to the will of the late E. D. Wilson,
:
Esq., who bequeathed forty guineas per annum, for ever, to

pay a Protestant schoolmaster to teach 40 children reading,
writing, arithmetic, and psalmody ; the master and children to
attend every Sunday at church.
May 23, 1788, a Sunday school was opened, which
continued for several years, and then ceased.
April. 1811, a
similar school was formed; and on the 22d of the following
[*
See
New
Appendix.]
Free Schools mentioned have given place to National

In latter years Dr. William Maloney kept a private school in
Governor's Walk, an institution which in its days occupied a very high
William
position among the educational establishments in Ulster.
Larmour had a private school at Joymount Bank, and afterwards in
In 1857, a site was secured for a model
the rear of the Union Hall.
and maritime school on the Belfast Road. Mr. J. M'Neill Stephenson,
who was formerly teacher in the Old Lancasterian School, was first
master.
After Dr. Maloney, Miss Gunning kept a private school in
Governor's Place.
About 1878 Miss Nelson established a boardingschool for young ladies in High Street, which she discontinued, about
In iqoi the Misses Douglas opened a
1900, owing to ill-health.
ladies' school in Joymount.
The National Schools in the town an*
about twelve, male and female, and are under the National School
Board at the present day all education in these schools is free. In
1894 a School Attendance Committee was formed, the first officer was
[tThc
Schools.
Mr. Thomas Feeney.]
2 33
March, an excellent sermon was preached by the present rector,

in aid of its funds
^24 were collected. A neat and spacious
school-house has been given by the marquis of Donegall
the
:
number of children who attend
are about 400.
In the county
of Antrim gaol, is [was] also a daily and Sunday school. 1

Branches of the following societies * exist here
Hibernian
Bible Society, Ordnance Bible Society, Hibernian General
Missionary Society, and Methodist Missionary Society. Contributions are also received by persons for the Hibernian Church
Missionary Society, and in aid of the funds of the Society for
promoting Christianity among the Jews. There is a society for
and also a society for lending
distributing clothes to the poor
:
Until about 24 years ago, the free-school of the diocese of Connor

in this town.
To its support the bishop of the diocese gave
10 per annum the beneficed clergy of the diocese
the marquis
i-\ 5
of Donegall ^3 3 4, and the earl of Massereene
i
The difficulty
6.
of collecting this money was said to have increased of late' years hence
the school was discontinued for want of exertion, though formerly much
cost and pains were taken to establish it.
In 1728, the Rev. Owen
was held
Lloyd, dean of Connor, and rector of this parish, granted, for

25 10,
an acre of land, to build a school-house for this school
and on the
i6th of September, 1734, the Assembly granted
10 to the Rev.
i-\
Philip Gayer, curate, as a reward for his trouble in getting the school
fixed here, and the deed perfected for said acre
pursuant to an act
;
Between the years 1729 and 1735, the

assembly, July 4, 1726.
grand jury of the county of Antrim also granted
100, in instalments
of
A large house was
20, to build a school-house on this ground.
but they were never
accordinglv built, with six windows in front
glazed, and the house was suffered to fall down without being finished.
The stones of it were drawn away to build the houses opposite the
custom-house, and the rector seized on the land, which he retains.
Receipt-Books of the late School. Records of Carrickfergus. Records
of the County of Antrim. Tradition of Old Inhabitants.
In the Dublin Gazette of August 5th, 1823, it was announced that
the Commissioners of Education had consolidated the Free Schools of
the dioceses of Armagh and Connor, and that the school of the latt?r
was to be held at Ballymena. The yearly salary of the master was
afterwards settled at .120, seventy of which was payable in the
Diocese. To the erection of the School-house at Ballymena, the Grand
Jury of the county of Antrim, have already granted ^369 43. 8d. by
instalments of ^"46 35. id.
The District
[* At present the societies in Carrickfergus are
Nursing Society, Church Clothing Society, General Clothing Society,
and the
National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children
following Masonic, Orange, Temperance and Friendly Societies
CarrickMasonic, Royal Arch Chapter, No. 253, Lodges 43 and 282
fergus District L.O.L., 10 Lodges; Independent Order of Oddfellows,
Independent Order of Rechabites,
M.U., Friendly Society, No. 3783
Fortress Tent, 2091 Independent Order of Good Templars. The Young
Men's Christian Association, the East Antrim Constitutional Association
-and the Royal National Lifeboat Institution have also branches, which
.are well and ablv conducted.!
of
2 34
out small books, chiefly religious.
Both of these are managed by
ladies.
The
charitable
gifts
of individuals to the poor of this
parish are very numerous, perhaps more so than in any place

of the like extent in Ireland, as will fully appear from the
following report
1590 George Carleton bequeathed ^30, in trust, to the

"
maior and corporacon of Knockfergus to cause to be builded
upp and erected an hospitall house of stonne within the walls
of Knockfergus, aforesaid, to receyve the poore wearyed
souilders at their cominge from their journeys to be dry in
and
that over the dore thereof ye be graven uppon a free-stone,
"
The Legacy of Robert Smith." l It does not appear that any
such house was built, nor do we learn what became of the
:
money.
1672
^30
John Mathews, tanner, Scotch quarter, bequeathed
to the
divided.
poor of the parish;
its
interest
to be annually
Hercules Davys, esq., left .200 for the relief of

17
poor persons of this parish, which legacy was lost to them about
1718; his son and heir Hercules having died in England so-,
3
poor that no part could be recovered.
About 1705, Richard Tennison, bishop of Meath, born in
Cheston's lane, or street, left by his will, in trust to the rector

and church-wardens, two houses on the east side of said street,
for the poor of this parish.
In 1729, the curate and churchwardens let these houses off for 21 years, to Henry and William
O'Hare, relations of the said bishop, who soon after made a

transfer of them, or a kind of sale, the trustees remaining calm
4
spectators of the nefarious transaction.
1718
Samuel Davys, esq., bequeathed ;ioo, the interest

amongst the poor housekeepers of the
to be distributed annually
5
parish.
1761,
March
Men Decayed
23, Henry Gill, esq., bequeathed

in thir Circumstances,"
per
^10
"to 14 Aged
annum
each,
and also houses and gardens to such of them as might not have
a residence.
This sum, by an increase of the funds of the
1
:i
4
5
Parish Registry.
235
He
also
14 yearly.
charity, has been lately augumented to
left ,200, in trust to the dean of Connor, and rector and
church-wardens of Carrickfergus, for the time being, the interest

go annually to the use of the poor housekeepers of this
to
and ^500,
parish
in trust to the governors of St.
Patrick's
found a ward, to be called " GILL'S WARD,"

for the keeping of 12 lunatics or ideots.
For an extract from
1
his will, and state of the charity,* see Appendix, No. XII.
hospital, Dublin, to
Francis Lee, of Tanderagee, left in trust ^100 to

1779
the rector of this parish, for the time being, the interest to be
In 1783,
distributed annually to the poor of Carrickfergus.
his heirs refused to
pay the
which the rector entered a

suit cost the parish
^n
legal interest of this

and recovered the
suit,
sum ; upon
same
this
9 o|.
1782 William Adair, esq., of the parish of St. James.

3
Westminster, left in trust ^2000. t in consolidated three per cent.
[* The property of this charity produces at the present time an
annual income of about ^"300, which is almost double what the yearly
produce was at the time of the bequest. The entire income is applied
by the trustees in accordance with the terms of the will of the donor,
but as the charity is a private one, no accounts are published at
present.]
1
Of
truly benevolent person, little information has been

that little says, that he was the son of a serjeant in the
army and that early in life he kept a stall in Carrickfergus markets,
That his stall was distinguished
selling salt, tobacco, and small wares.
for its neatness, and every month visibly increased in value, until he
opened a small shop, where the same good fortune attended him. The
accounts add, that he soon became an extensive woollen-draper, and
that many of the gentlemen of the county of Antrim bought their
He was many years store-keeper of
clothing from him at the assizes.
the garrison.
In 1760, a malicious report was propagated, that he
had refused ammunition to the troops, when they were attacked by the
French which was immediately contradicted by Col. Jennings, in the
In 1712, he was admitted a freeman, and in
May, 1720, he was chosen a burgess of this corporation, and in 1729,
served the office of sheriff. April 10, 1739, he was elected an alderman,
was the same year chosen mayor, and in the following year was
treasurer of the corporation.
He is described as of middle size, and
He died a bachelor, at an advanced age,
very neat in person.
September 16, 1761, and left the greater part of his fortune as already
noticed.
A curious book, written with his own hand, is often referred
to in the course of this work, and appears highly authentic.
2
Parish Register.
3
William Adair was son of the Rev. Patrick Adair, dissenting
minister of Carrickfergus.
At an early age he was sent to Glasgow
but his father dying, he left the university without taking a
college
On leaving college he
degree, in rather embarrassed circumstances.
resided for some time here, with Willoughby Chaplin, esq., by whom he
obtained
this
was recommended
to
Robert Gardner', an eminent army agent, London.
236
annuities, to the Adairs, owners of the
Ballymena estate, county

of Antrim, to go annually for the benefit of the poor freemen
of Carrickfergus, and to be divided as the proprietor of the
Ballymena
estate, for the time
19 old freemen receive annually

Peter Kirk, esq., Carrickfergus.
being
may
direct.
At present,
^3
8 3 each, by the hands of

It is worthy of remark, that it
was difficult to get people to accept of Gill's or Adair's charities ;

but at present, applications are numerous.
1792 Hercules Ellis, esq., bequeathed .150, in trust to
the rector and church-wardens of this parish, and the proprietor
of the Straid estate, for the time being, to be put out to interest
to proper persons ; the interest to be applied annually for the
use of the poor of Carrickfergus.
1801
John Lee, grocer, Scotch quarter, bequeathed -ioo
to the Presbyterian congregation of this place ; the interest to
defray the expenses of sacramental elements.
1813 Mrs. Martha Thompson, Dublin, left ^100 to the

"
one debenture in the Five per
poor of Carrickfergus, being
Cents.," and "to be under the direction of E. D. Wilson, esq.,
Sir William Kirk, and the church-wardens, for the time being,''
the interest to be distributed every Christmas
2
less orphans and widows of said parish.
1820
divided,
in
among
the father-
E. D. Wilson, esq., bequeathed

8s. yearly, to be
loaves of bread, at Easter, Whitsunday, the ist
^8
of September, and Christmas, to such of the poor as attended

most regularly the service at church.
Mr. Gardner took him into his counting-house, where he conducted
himself so well, that in a few years he was admitted to a share in
trade, and on the death of Mr. Gardner, he succeeded him in his
business.
He appears to have been a man of strict integrity, as he
paid some small debts contracted at college, with interest, as soon as
He was
able, also some of his father's, in a like honorable manner.
never married, and left a part of his fortune as related above.
[tThis money is invested in Consols, and some time ago the
interest admitted twelve aged freemen receiving ^5 a year.
At the
Mr.
present rate of interest only ten pensioners receive ^5 yearly.
Henry Johns, Director of the Belfast Bank, has, since the death of
Mr. Coates, paid the money every half-year, on the first Saturday in
February and August. Up to the present there have been enough old
freemen to receive the pension, but as Carrickfergus is no longer a
borough, no new freemen have been made since July, 1884, when Mr.
In the
T. D. Johns, Solicitor, Town Clerk, admitted thirty-three.
course of time some change will have to be made as to the distribution
of this charity.]
1
Registry, Prerogative Court, Canterbury.

Dublin Gazette.
2 37
1822
Mrs.
Anne Wilson, Scotch
quarter,
left
.200
ia
of the Established and Dissenting Churchea

of Carrickfergus, for the time being, for the use of the
poor
of the parish; the interest to be distributed
It isannually.
thought, that by a residue of this lady's property, the charity
will be augmented to ^300.
This charity amounted to
trust to the ministers
^317
95.
2(1.
1824, July 5th, Jane Lee, dealer, Scotch Quarter, died,

aged 80 years.
By her will she bequeathed ^100 in trust tothe poor of Carrickfergus, its interest to be divided
amongst
them
also
Protestant
annually;
$ per annum to the
She
Episcopalian Church, to purchase sacramental elements.
left several legacies to individuals ;
and the residue of her
fortune,
amounting to ,600,
in trust to the
Mayor of
Carrick-
fergus, the Protestant, and Protestant Dissenting Ministers, for

the time being, Davys Bowman, Esq., and Mr. George
M'llwrath, the interest of which she directed to be divided
the Scotch-Quarter who had dealt with John

Lee (her brother) or the donor; and who had regularly paid
their accounts
those whose accounts remained unpaid to be
among persons of
excluded, even to the third generation, unless they or their heirs,,

paid to the trustees what was due to her and her brother John.
Those persons, or their heirs, who had paid their accounts,
might be admitted by the trustees at any time to her charity,

though non-resident ; but the idle, dissolute, and debauched,
were to be for ever excluded from it. In September following,
her death, some children found a
house, on which a strict search was made,
after
more were discovered,
The
in
few guineas in her

and upwards of 200
various holes of the wall and floor.
it
impossible to distribute the sum
agreeable to her bequest, the money was paid into the Court of
executors
finding
Chancery.
18^8. July i4th, Miss Margaret Spaight, died, aged 91.
By
her will she bequeathed
the Rector
^300. Irish currency, in trust toand Churchwardens of the parish of Carrickfergus.
for the time being;

poor of said parish.
its
interest to
be distributed yearly to the
Several ladies and gentlemen also give small sums monthly,

or weekly, to certain poor persons of the parish ; yet strolling
beggars are more numerous than formerly.
238
The
following are some additional notices of charities to
the town:
86 1.
Charles Shiels, born in 1782, a native of Killough,

County Down, and a successful Liverpool merchant, left the
sum of ^90,000 for the purpose of building 24 comfortable
1
houses for respectable persons in reduced circumstances, which

are open to residents in County Antrim.
These houses are
and each inmate receives .10 a year, with fire and

on
condition
of raising ;io a year towards his or her
light,
own support.
There are similar institutions in Killough,
Dungannon, Armagh, and Dublin. Present trustees, 1909, Rev.
George Chamberlain, M.A. ; Samuel P. Close, A.R.H.A. ; Rev.
F. C. Henry, P.P. ; Philip Jordan, J.P. ; Rev. Alex. Cuthbert,
M.A. ; W. A. Woodside, J.P.; H. I. Johns, J.P. ; Edward
rent free,
Captain Conway Higginson; H. J. M'Bride, J.P. ;

Gordon ; Superintendent, Archibald Lisk ; Medical
Dr. Samuel Killen.
Meet first Monday in January,
Coey, J.P.
Secretary, T.
Officer,
April, July, October.
Colonel James Craig, J.P., Carlton Hall, gives the
of
[All
annually to the several different churches, in
sum
all
these legacies to the poor of Carrickfergus were invested in
Government stock but in 1871-2 the Churchwardens placed them in

United States and Russian bonds, since sold and invested in Northern
Counties Railway (Midland) stock, in the names of the Rev. George
Chamberlain, M.A., Dr. Arthur Bailie Frances and Thomas Gorman,
;
J.P-]
HISTORY,
OF CARRICKFERGUS.
&c.,
PART
III.
forms a county corporate, distinct from the

of
Antrim, and is first mentioned in the judges'
county
commission; the assizes for both counties are always
district
THIS
opened on the same day.

and civil bill acts,
For some
special purposes, as the

attached to the barony of Lower
Belfast, county of Antrim, and then gives title to one of the
grand divisions of the said county the decrees of the assistant
militia
it is
barrister, however, as far as relates to Carrickfergus, are signed
The sessions for the town and

of this county.
in
held
session
week, and the crown and
county
always
all other business transacted as at other sessions, civil bills
by the
sheriffs
are.
will be observed that the period treated of in this part was

" The
1842, when the corporation, which was styled
Mayor,
Sheriffs, Burgesses, and Commonalty, of the County of the Town of
Carrickfergus," was dissolved, under the provisions of the Municipal
Reform Act, and a board of Municipal Commissioners was constituted,
in
whom were vested the corporate property. Up till 1894 the
[It
before
Municipal Commissioners were without rating powers, but in that

year they promoted a bill in Parliament which gave them power to
The borough formerly
levy rates for sanitary and other purposes.
returned two burgesses to serve in parliament, but after the union
On the passing of the Redistribution of
with Great Britain only one.
Seats Bill in 1884, the County of the Town was amalgamated with the
East Division of County Antrim, which is now represented by Colonel
James Martin M'Calmont.

In 1899 the Municipal Commissioners and Grand Jury were, under
the Irish Local Government Act, 1898, replaced by Urban, Rural and
County Councillors, and the provisions of the Town's Improvement Act,
1854, made to apply to the town forming the Urban Sanitary District.
Under the same Act the County of the Town has been merged for
Assize purposes in County Antrim, and the i4th July, 1899, witnessed
the final Commission of Assize in the Record Court, County Courthouse, Belfast, before the Right Hon. Justice Andrews. On Thursday,
i,
1899, Mr. Henry Fitzgibbon, Q.C., County Court Judge,
attended at the Court-house, Town Hall, Carrickfergus, to dispose of
the business of the Half-yearly Sessions, which were the last to be
His Lordship was attended to the bench by
held at Carrickfergus.
the last High Sheriff, Mr. Charles J. Johnstone.]
June
17
The mayor and recorder both preside on the bench

excepted.
on these occasions. For a curious paper of enquiries, formerly
presented to the grand jury at each sessions, see Appendix, No.
XIII.
The
length and breadth of this county, at present, are

point, or tongue
nearly equal; at a mean about four miles.
of land in the West Division, still runs the length of its ancient
boundaries, near five English miles.

have not been able to discover the exact period when it
was first incorporated as a county, though it is said by king
We
1
It is certain that sheriffs were appointed by Henry II.,

John.
in those counties and cities held by the English, who were
2
confirmed by John on his visit to Ireland, the i2th of his reign
:
some of these princes must have created it a county. This is

put past all doubt, by the circumstance, that no counties were
erected in Ireland from the i2th of the reign of the latter,
3
until I556; and long prior to that period, it is mentioned as a
The sheriffalty was formerly held
county, having a sheriff.
with
that
of
the
the most ancient
county of Antrim
jointly
:
patent existing respecting them, is dated September n, 1325,

"
The king to his
the 2oth of Edward II.
the words are
:
John de Athye, greeting, know ye that we have

committed to you the office of Sheriff of the counties of Carrick*
In the Down
fergus and Antrim, to hold during' pleasure."
beloved
"
Survey, it is called the

County Palatine of Carrickfergus."
Counties palatine were erected immediately after the conquest of
"
the country by the English, and were endowed with
great
"
priviledges," in order that the inhabitants, who were
subject
to continual! invasions," might defend them against "the wild
Irish."
In the
ecclesiastical
division,
the county
forms but one
parish in the diocese of Connor, which, in our ancient records,

"
always called SANCTI NICOLAS." The rectory was formerly

in the gift of this corporation, and continued so till the 2oth of
is
July,
1609,
ecclesiastical
'Gill's
when James
I.,
his
charter
establishing
the
MSS.
Ware's Antiquities.
Davies's Historical Tracts.

Harris's Hibernica.
in
government of the sees of Connor and Dromore,
Spenser's
View
of Ireland.
Sir
John Davies mentions the erection
of counties palatine in Ulster, about the time of king John.
\VEST
VIEW OF
ST.
NICHOLAS
CHURCH.
245
1
It is taxed in
deanery of the former place.
the king's books, the i5th of James I., at eight pounds.
For
some further particulars, see Appendix, No. XIV. In a Terrier,
preserved in the archives of the bishoprics of Down and Connor,
dated 1604, it is called " Ecclesia de Carrickfergus," and
united
to the
it
represented as having
paying
in
"
no
ecclesiastical
glebe,
to
dues
but some Orchards
;"
and
the
bishop, proxies 20,5

In a return preserved in the
and synodals 2,s.

of
the
registry
Prerogative Court of the sees of Down and
Connor, dated 1633, the living is valued at .120 per annum.
It is now believed to be worth
^420 yearly, including two
* of excellent land near the
fields
town, which is the only glebe
refections 20,3
there
is
no glebe house.
The present rector t has the

Gwynn, who usually agrees with
tythes let off to the Rev. John

the people from year to year
:
the only tythes taken are those of hay and grain ; no others are
claimed.
They are rarely taken in kind. Beneath is a correct
list of the rectors, since the
junction of the parish with the
deanery of Connor, and a few before that time.
[1303
I 573
1590
1596
John Cautok.]
-
Darsye.
Edward Edgworth.
John Tedder. J
In the patent of erection of the deanery of Connor are the

Ralow, Invermore, Moylusk, Derriaghy, Ballyfollowing parishes
ovan, Ballvedward, Blaris, and Knockfergus.
Ballyovan, Blaris, and
Ballyedward were lost to the deanery in 1633 we do not learn when
:
Derriaghy was separated from it. MSS. of Dean Dobbs.

[*The two fields and all tythes were disposed of at the
disestablishment of the church in 1869. There was no rectory or glebe
house until 1892. The rectory is situated on the North Road, a short
distance from the urban boundary.
It is erected on an acre of land
held by lease for ever from the late Countess of Shaftesbury at a
los.
On the building and laying out of the
yearly rent of
"j
grounds a sum of ^1,444 45. was expended;
~$o being a government
The
the remainder was raised by voluntary subscriptions.
loan,
rectory is a commodious and handsome structure of red brick, and was
built by Ezekiel Caters, Esq.
the architect being S. P. Close, Esq.,
;
stipend for the living of St. Nicholas's is now ^"305,

with the Rectory.]
[TThe Rector at this time was the Rev. John Chaine, who lived
A.R.H.A.
The
at
Seapark.
The Rev. John Gwynn lived at Rosebrook he was a Professor of
Divinity, T.C.D., and was for 61 years Rector of Ballynure and
Kilroot.
Stephen Gwynn, M.P. for Galway, is his eldest son, and
Mrs. Joseph M'Caughan, Windmill Hill, is a grand-daughter.]
[JThe name of this man was Charden, not Tedder. In 1594 the
troops in Carrickfergus mutinied for want of provisions, when John
;
246
1599
Hugh
1609
Miles Whaly.
1615
Robert
Griffith.
Openshaw,
to
chaplain
the
lord
deputy
Chichester; appointed September 23.
1628
Richard Shugborrough, alias Shugburgh, chaplain

appointed to the rectory and prebend of
In the following year, he was also
Kilroot, September 23.
presented by the crown to the living of Ahoghill.
to the lord deputy,
1658
He
Robert Price, chaplain to the lord deputy Strafford.

loyal man, and a great sufferer for the royal
was a very
July 27, 1660, he was consecrated bishop of Leighlin

and Ferns; he died in Dublin, May 20, 1666.
1660 Francis March, appointed February 8. June 19,
1 66 1, he was advanced to the
deanery of Armagh, and after
wards made bishop of Limerick, from whence he was translated
to the see of Kilmore and Ardagh, and afterwards to that of
Dublin, where he died November 16, 1693.
cause.
George Rust, August 3, was appointed to this

rectory.
June 6, 1662, the rectory of Island Magee was
attached to the deanery of Connor, to which it remains annexed.
November 8, 1667, he was promoted to the see of Dromore,
where he died December, 1670, and was buried in that
cathedral, in the same vault with his patron, Jeremy Taylor,
bishop of Down and Connor.
1
66 1
1667
priest,
in
November
1679,
was
Patrick Sheridan, the son of Denis Sheridan, a

the diocese of Kilmore, who became a protestant.
9,
he was appointed
rector,
and on the i9th of April,

he died in Dublin:
made bishop of Cloyne;
November, 1682.
1679
Thomas Ward appointed
for incontinence.
He
April 41 ; deprived in
expended a considerable sum in
1693,
repairing the roads of this parish.
Charden, Bishop of Down and Connor, gave them some cattle of his
manor of Kilroot, which put an end to the mutiny. He had been a
clergyman at Exeter, "a noted preacher," and in high esteem for
his edifying sermons, of which some were published and preached at
He was appointed by
St. Mary's, Oxford, and at St. Paul's Cross.
Queen Elizabeth Bishop of Down and Connor in 1593.
first
Elizabeth,
Bishop John Melliman, Chaplain to Queen
Reformed Bishop of Down and Connor; Bishop Hugh Allen,
recommended by the Queen as a zealous man and last of the Bishops
He died at Kilroot.]
of Elizabeth's time was Robert Humpeton.
;
247
1694
1706
George Story.*
Martin Baxter, December 24, was appointed
1710
Owen
1743
1753
1775
1802
rector.
Lloyd, appointed February 28, died 1743.

John Walsh; died 1753.
Hill Benson; appointed June nth; he died
1775.
Richard Dobbs; died February, 1802.
Thomas
Graves.
In
he exchanged livings
1811,
with the Rev. Theophilus Blakely.
1811
Theophilus
Blakely.
In
1824
Achonry, having exchanged deaneries

William Green, dean of that place.
with
he
removed
the
Very
to
Rev.
1825
Henry Lesley, late rector of Ahoghill, having
exchanged livings with Wm. Green, late dean of Achonry
:
inducted January 29th.
The following
1839,
March,
are
the
some additional
Rev.
notices of clergymen:
John Chaine inducted
into
the
rectory of Carrickfergus in the room of the Rev. Henry Leslie,

At the same time the rectory of Islandmagee was
resigned.
disunited from the said deanery and
The Very
Rev.
made
a separate living.
Dean
Chaine removed, in
Lancashire, where he died
1855,
to
20.
June
aged 60 years, and was succeeded by the Very Rev.
George Bull, D.D., Dean of Connor.
Dean Bull died March 24th, 1886, aged 73 years, and was
succeeded by the Rev. George Chamberlain, M.A.,t who was
In
appointed by the Board of Nomination Rector in April.
September, 1908, Mr. Chamberlain resigned on account of ill
Claughton-in-Lonsdale,
1862,
and on 25th November the Rev. F. J. M'Neice, B.D.,

was appointed by the Board of Nomination to be Rector.
health,
Since the settlement of
Protestant
Dissenters
in
Ulster,
the following persons have been pastors to the congregation in

this
town
[* George Story was a chaplain in King William's army, and

wrote the " History of the Revolutionary War."]
the a8th
T On
March, 1907, a deputation, representing the
parishioners of St. Nicholas Church, waited on the Rev. George
Chamberlain, at the Rectory, to present him with an illuminated
address and a casket containing two hundred and fifty sovereigns, as
a tribute of esteem and affection from the congregation and other
friends in Carrickfergus.
The casket is the gift of a member of the
congregation, and is a beautiful specimen of antique silver work.]
248
i6n
Mr. Hubbard, or Hubbart. This gentleman, who

"
gracious and able minister," separated from the
established church, and became minister of a dissenting congreAfterwards, from the persecugation in Southwark, London.
tions raised against them, both pastor and people removed to
Carrickfergus, under the patronage of the Lord Deputy
Chichester.
He died in 1623, on which the English members
of the congregation returned home. 1 The Rev. George Dunbar,
who soon after settled at Larne, is said to have preached here
some time after Mr. Hubbard's decease.
1626 James Glendenning.
In the following year he
removed to Oldstone, where he is said to have awakened the
is
noted as a
"
people
with terrors."
1646.
John Gregg, who is believed to have settled here
a few years prior to this date. In the Records of Carrickfergus
for 1648, we find, amongst the items of the annual expenses
for the Corporation,
one yeare
"
^4,
for
"
Mr. John Gregg's Chamber, for
believed, that like most other dissenting

ministers, about this time, he enjoyed the tithes of the parish in
;
hence
it is
which he was placed.
This
is
rendered more than likely by the
circumstance that a few years before,
we
find in the Corporation
6, rent, paid annually, for the house held by the

expenses,
rector of the parish, and in the above year there is no item of
such a kind. On the surrender of the garrison in July, 1649
(see
those
page
who
he spoke boldly against the Lord of Ards, and

broke their covenant," for which he was threatened,
56),
"
and he and the Rev. Robt. Cunningham, Braidisland, fled in a

Down. In 1653 we find him at Maybole,
in
and
Scotland;
June, 1657, he was again chosen by the conof
gregation
Carrickfergus, but from his being deemed disSoon
affected to the government, he was not permitted to settle.
after, he became minister of Newtownards, where he died,
boat to the County of
July, 1670.
1657 Timothy Taylor, an independent minister attached to

the army, was for several years resident here, and held a landed
property in the Middle Division ; in the records of Carrickfergus
he is several times noticed as Presbyterian minister of this
'Life of the Rev. Robert Blair.
Lives of the Puritans.
"
Life of the Rev. Robert Blair.
'Adair's MS. A Sample of Jet Black Prelatic Calumny.
terian Loyalty.
Brook's
Presby-
After the restoration he was silenced for non-conand in 1668, he removed to Dublin, as colleague to the
Rev. Samuel Mather, where he died in 1681. He was a man of
considerable abilities, and author of several religious tracts. 1
parish.
formity,
1674
Thomas
Robert Henry;
Hall,
ordained April 22nd, by the Rev.

Larne, in the house of John Crawford, near
In 1688, when this town was held by Roman
Ballyclare.*
Catholic troops, he was taken prisoner while in the pulpit, by an
Irish officer named Ramsey, and kept some time in confinement.
In 1692, he was called to the dissenting congregation of CapelDublin, where he died in i699- 2
street,
Archibald Ross; he died 1699. 3

Patrick Adair, son of the Rev. Patrick Adair, Carn1702
castle, and afterwards of Belfast ; ordained Dec. 9th ; died
1694
June 1 2th, I7i71718 James Frazer; ordained June

garden, on the west side of North-street.
8th, in
He
Captain Davis's
died August i9th,
I747-
1756
David Fullerton.
This gentleman was ordained
March nth. He was highly respected by
the church-yard,
in
all
classes of society.
In 1766, being charged with incontinence, he

demitted contrary to the advice of his most respectable hearers,
who very generally believed him to be innocent. Soon after, he
went to Jamaica, and joining the episcopal church in that island,

6
obtained a living near Kingston, where he died about I7891770 William Blakely ; ordained Dec. i2th, "libelled" for
drunkenness;
1
Adair's
From
brought to
MS.
Ware's
trial,
and found
guilty,
Nov. 3Oth,
Irish Writers.
Established
of
the
Clergy,
persecution
this period were rarely ordained in the
dissenting
Adair's
MS.
to
which
had
been
called.
parishes
they
2
Adair's MS.
Tradition.
Robert Henry's eldest son, Hugh,
became a banker in Dublin and in 1715, was one of the burgesses in
Parliament for the borough of Antrim ; he died 1743. His son, Joseph,
of Straffan, County Kildare, 1764, married Catherine, eldest daughter
of John Earl of Moira, by his first wife Helena, youngest daughter to
John first Earl of Egmont. Their son married Emily Elizabeth, sister
to the late Duke of Leinster, and their daughter was married to Patrick
MS. Lodge's
Plunkett, M.D., brother to the present Lord Plunkett.
the
rigorous
ministers about
Peerage.
3
Records of the Synod of Ulster.

Records of the Synod of Ulster.
MS.
Tradition.
252
1779
')
* êmitted Dec.
2nd, in the same year.
He
retired to his
native place, Ballinahinch, and became buckle-beggar, where he

died March, 1810. One sermon of his has been printed.
1783
John Savage; ordained March 4th; died Dec.
i9th,
1822, aged 67 years, much regretted.

1823 James S. Reid. July 20th, the congregation gave him
a call, at which time he was minister of Donegore. He accepted
and was installed on the ipth August, t

synodical
sermon, preached by him at Cookstown, in 1828, has been pub-
the call,
lished.
The
following are some additional notices of Presbyterian

clergymen, also the name of the present minister:
In 1642, June icth, the first Presbytery held in Ireland

of five ministers and four elders, who had
arrived with the Scottish forces on the previous April.
Their
names were: Rev.
of
Glencairn's
Hugh Cunningham,
Regiment ; Rev. John Baird, Campbell's Regiment ; Rev.
met
here, consisting
Thomas
Peebles, Eglinton's
Regiment
Rev. John Scott and the
Rev. John Aird.

Four elders from the constituted sessions in
the four regiments then at head-quarters, viz., Argyle's,
and Hume's, whose names are not given.

James Glendinning, A.M., was a native of Scotland, and
Eglinton's, Glencairn's,
was educated at St. Leonard's College in St. Andrew's. In the

book of the Diocese of Down and Connor, in 1622,
visitation
is returned as incumbent of the adjoining parish of Coole

or Carnmoney, and as serving the cure there, though at the
same time the parish church is described as being in ruins. It
he
is
in
probable, therefore, that he resided altogether for three years

In 1627 he removed to
Carrickfergus as a lecturer.
Oldstone, where by his preaching he originated the revival.

*June, 1770, the Assembly of this Corporation granted to the
congregation, for ever, a plot of ground Red-worth's Tenement, situated
on the east side of North-Street, 50 feet in front, and 164 feet in rear,
at the yearly rent of 155., for the purpose of building on it a house for
20 towards
At the same time they also granted
their minister.
22 155. for a like
building said house; and on August 3d, 1776,
purpose.
Sept. 24th, 1789, a surrender was made of this lease, and
a new one granted, for ever, on paying a pepper-corn yearly, and ^8
arrear on the former lease remitted.
[Dwelling-houses are erected on this site, and at the rear are
stables for the use of the congregation.]
t Of the seat-holders who voted on this occasion, 179 were for
giving him a call, and 39 for trying probationers.
255
George Dunbar, A.M., was for a length of time minister

of Ayr; he first preached in Carrickfergus after the removal
of Glendinning, but finally settled in Larne, where he proved a
most diligent minister.
The Rev. Timothy Taylor had been a Presbyterian minister,
but he joined the Independents, and was afterwards pastor of
Church of Duckenfield, Cheshire, from which place he
removed to Carrickfergus, where he had a salary, as an
the
teacher, from the Cromwellian government, of

At
per annum, and was chaplain to Colonel Venables.
this period he always signed after his name, pastor of the
Independent
^200
church of Carrickfergus
and
in the records
of the town he
is
He held a respectable property

Presbyterian minister.
under the corporation of Carrickfergus, within the town, and in
called
the Middle and North-East divisions, which long after his time
was held by a Hopkins Taylor, perhaps a son.
He was
confined in Carrickfergus through Blood's plot.

The Rev. William Keys is said
1670.
to
have been
Presbyterian minister about this time, but to have removed to

Belfast in 1672.
He had a salary of
140 a year from
"
Cromwell's government. Latimer, in his
History of the Irish
Presbyterians," states that he was never minister of Carrickfergus, but supplied the place every second Sunday.
At different times the people of Carrickfergus petitioned
the
Presbytery to obtain a settled minister, and
names of Baptist Boyd,
Dalway mentioned
In
Wm.
we
find the
Mayne, John Jowland, and Robert
as their commissioners.
1673
congregation called Archibald Hamilton,
formerly of Benburb, but he settled in Armagh.
Presbytery of Antrim, at meeting on 7th April, 1674,
resolved
"the next meeting is to be at John Crawford's house,
the
near Balliclare, upon Tuesday, the 2ist of this instant, at eleven

in the forenoon."
The Presbytery met on 2ist, as appointed,
and heard some of Mr. Henry's pieces of trial, also transacted

business.
Afterwards they adjourned till next
Mr.
when
delivered
his popular sermon by way of
day,
Henry
trial.
Then he was ordained the presiding minister being Mr.
Hall but the following were present also: Masters Patrick
their ordinary
Adaire, Robert Cunningham, John Haltridge, John Anderson,
John Douglas, Adam Getty, John Shaw, David Cunningham,

Richard Wilson, Thomas Gowan, Anthony Kennedy, William
Shaw, Patrick Shaw, Joseph Hamilton, Robert Kelso.
256
At
this time the
High Church party rode rough-shod
over
the Presbyterians, maintaining that they violated the laws of

the land by presuming to ordain ministers, and hence the
ordination of Mr. Henry took place in Mr. Crawford's house.
Archibald Ross, who had been licensed by the Presbytery

of Irwin, was ordained here in 1694.
He is mentioned as one
of the trustees for the Regium Donum in the patent dated
September, 1699.
Patrick Adair,
who assisted to present an address to King

was the grandson by his mother to Sir Robert
Adair, Ballymena ; the Rev. Wm. Adair, Ballyeaston, was his
uncle by his father. His son, William Adair, who died in 1782,
William
III.,
bequeathed the ^2,000 to the Adairs, the proprietors of the

Ballymena estate, in trust for the poor freemen of Carrickfergus.
Mr. Frazer died in 1748. He was licensed to preach by

the Presbytery of Armagh in Lurgan, in March, 17 10, between
ii and 12 o'clock at night, by Mr. Hutchinson of Armagh.
Such precautions had then to be used for fear of persecutions

by the civil and ecclesiastical rulers of Ireland. Mr. Frazer
got into trouble with some members of his congregation, who
blamed him for favouring Mr. Dalway, but a committee of
Presbytery vindicated, and acquitted Mr. Frazer of endeavouring
to procure one seat more than another for Mr. Dalway.
In 1760, when M. Thurot appeared in the lough with three
French frigates, Mr. Fullerton was sent to Belfast with a flag
of truce, and a letter to the Sovereign, in which the French
commodore threatened to burn the town if not immediately
At his ordination he subscribed the
supplied with provisions.
"I believe the Westminster Confession of

following formula:
Faith contains a good system of the Christian doctrines, which
I subscribe as the confession
of
my
faith."
Mr. Savage was ordained by the Presbyter}- of Templepatrick; he was a licentiate of the Dromore Presbytery, and
had subscribed the Confession of Faith when licensed.

Rev. James Seaton Reid, D.D., was born in the year 1798.
at Lurgan.
His father, Mr. Forrest Reid, kept a GrammarHe was the youngest but one of seventeen
school there.
children (Dr. Killen states he was the twenty-first child of his
Dr. Reid entered Glasgow College in 1813, was
parents).
by the Presbytery of Letterkenny (of which his brother,
Edward Reid, of Ramelton, was then a member) in
Here.
1818, and was ordained in Donegore, zoth July, 1819.
licensed
the Rev.
257
age of 23 or 24, he conceived the idea of writing the
History of the Irish Presbyterian Church; after he removed to
In 1834
Carrickfergus, in 1823, the project first took shape.
the first volume was published, the second appeared in
June,
at the
1837, and the following

the Synod of Ulster its
month the author was appointed by
Professor of Ecclesiastical History.

In November, 1838, he resigned the ministry of Carrickfergus,
and in 1841 was appointed, by the Crown, Professor of
Ecclesiastical
and
third
last
half finished
and Civil History in Glasgow University. The

volume of his great work was little more than
when he died, at the seat of Lord Mackenzie,
The
Eelmont, near Edinburgh, in 1851, aged 52 years.
unfinished volume of history was completed by his successor in
the Chair of Ecclesiastical History in the Assembly's College,
Belfast, the late Rev.
W. D.
Killen,
D.D.
In consideration of
valuable contributions to literature, the Crown, since his

death, settled a pension of ^100 per annum on his family.
his
Rev. James White succeeded Dr. Reid, and was ordained

on 3ist December, 1838.
Mr. White was born in 1816, and
was the second son of the Rev. Patrick White, of First Bailieboro".
He had six sons, all of whom became Presbyterian
On
clergymen.
the
2ist
September.
1888,
the congregation
him with a purse of 300 sovereigns.

He died
December nth. 1889, and on the 3oth same month the Rev.
John Stewart, formerly minister of Broughshane, was installed.
Mr. Stewart had been a licentiate of the Route Presbytery. On
presented
the
8th March, 1898, he resigned to go to Rathgar, Dublin.
1898. Rev. Alexander Cuthbert, M.A., was

Mr. Cuthbert was a native of Coleraine, and had
been minister of Glascar before going to College Square Church,
July
26,
installed.
Belfast.
a small congregation of Covenanters, who have a
meeting-house in the North East Division, erected about 20
He
years ago; their first minister was the Rev. John Paul.*
There
is
has published several works on polemic divinity.

[* The Rev. John Paul was born near Antrim in 1777, and became
Reformed Presbyterian minister of Loughmourne on September nth,
He published, in 1826, "A Refutation of Arianism," in reply

sermons of Dr. Bruce. Dr. Paul died on i6th of March, 1848,
aged 71 years, and was interred at Loughmourne. He was succeeded
by the Rev. William Close, who was born on the i7th January, 1822,
and was originally a minister of the Eastern Reformed Covenanting
Church, but at a meeting of the General Assembly, held in Belfast, in
18
1805.
to the
258
Until lately
we
are without any information regarding such

as officiated here as parish priests.
chancellor of Connor, to the Irish
Roman Catholic gentlemen

By a return made by the
Lords' Committee in 1731, it appears, that there was neither

Tradition conpriest nor chapel in Carrickfergus at that time.
and adds, that for several years after, Roman

Catholic priests seldom visited this parish ; and that when they
did, mass was celebrated on the bleak commons at a place still
firms this report,
In 1791, a small chapel* was founded
called the Priest's bush.

in the
Middle Division,
to assist the building of which, the vestry
1
In 1826, a new chapel was
granted ^5, April 3rd, I792.
erected by subscription, adjoining the town, on a plot of ground
called Barlev-hill.
On the 8th of October it was consecrated by
the
Right
diocese,
Rev.
Catholic clergymen
are, in 1732,
William Crolly, titular bishop of the

PATRICK'S Chapel. The only Roman
Dr.
and named
-
St.
known
-
to officiate here since the reformation
Moore; 1739, -
- Cairns;
1757,
Edward M'llea; 1761, Felix Scullion; 1788, J. M. V. M'Carey,

1802, Thomas Cassidy ; 1813, Constantine Boyle;
1814,
Daniel M'Mullan; 1820, Arthur O'Neill.
The following
not
are
As to the Roman
much more known
some additional notices:

Catholic clergymen alluded to there
is
of them than their names, and the fact
that they officiated through an extensive district.

In 1717, James Sheil officiated, and in 1729,
Bour Boylane;
these were Franciscan Friars.
In compliance with an Act for Registering Popish Priests,
we
find that at a general Session of the Peace, held at Carrickfergus, the 1 2th of July, 1704, Edmond Moore was stated to
have
charge
of
Tickmacrevan.
Ralbo,
Kilwaughter,
and
1893, he was received as a minister in full standing, on the

recommendation of the Presbytery of Carrickfergus and Synod of
Belfast.
Mr. Close retired on the 3rd August, 1897, owing to illhealth, and the Rev. W. G. Lundie was ordained assistant and
successor on yth December following.
He resigned 28th January, 1003,
and removed to First Ready, Co. Armagh. Rev. S. M. Shaw succeeded,
and was ordained July 26th. 1903.]
but this temporary massf* Father M' Garry fitted up this chapel
house was abandoned after Father M' Garry was suspended, and the
priest used to assemble the people for mass at the foot of Briantang
Brae, where in bad weather they were accommodated with the use of
a house, this continued up till 1826.]
June,
Parish Registry.
259
Moore was then 58 years of age,

;
he
was still in office in 1732, when
Glenarm,
Of Cairns nothing is known, and the same
age.
In 1764, Felix Scullion was described as a
Carrickfergus
and he
in
86 years of
of M'llea.
who
in
summer
said mass in the fields,
lived
parish priest
and during the winter
house of some parishioner.

James Mathew Vincent M'Carey
in the
was a native of the

the Dominican
Convent of Coleraine; ordained in the Dominican Convent,
Lisbon, in 1781, appointed to Larne and Carrickfergus, 1787.
In 1782 he erected the chapel of Ballygowan and a temporary
parish of Culfeightrin, and became a
chapel at Carrickfergus.
"
The Sure Way
member of
In 1797 he published a
Heaven
little
volume,
''
Belfast), and in
January, 1798, delivered a very loyal address to his parishioners,
to
(printed
in
He died at the General

published.
Hospital, Belfast, in 1833.
Rev. Thomas Cassidy was said to be a native of Moyagall,
in the parish of Maghera, County Derry.
He died about 1812
which was
afterwards
or 1813.
The
records
give
the
following
who became chaplain of
account
of
Father
At
1814:
that time the medical officer of the gaol was one Dr. Stewart,
whom Father M'Mullan had the misfortune to offend by
M'Mullan,
the
jail
in
speaking disparagingly of his skill, and by recommending some

of the prisoners to get medicine and advice from Mr. Forsyth,
a surgeon in Carrickfergus.
At the same time the chaplain had
imprudence, encouraged by the loose discipline then

to drink punch with some debtors, whom he had
known in Belfast, and who had formerly been in respectable
the
observed,
Dr. Stewart brought the case under the notice

summer assizes in 1815, and again at the
in
1816.
Father M'Mullan admitted the charge,
assizes
spring
but denied having brought the whiskey into the prison, or knew
circumstances.
of the judge
at the
in.
The judge dismissed him from the
the
he
parish in 1817.
resigned
chaplaincy;
Constantine
O'Boyle, a native of the parish of
1813,
Duneane. He held the parish only a short time, for, in the year
1814. he accepted the curacy of Drummaul, under his uncle,
how
it
was brought
the Rev. Peter O'Boyle.
John M'Greevey removed to the parish of Lower

had been appointed to Larne and Carrickfergus,
he
Mourne;
1814,
26o
but some of the people objected to him because he was redhaired.
1814, Daniel M'Mullan. a native of the parish of Loughinisland; he became the chaplain of the County of Antrim Gaol.
Died
Kilmore, May 2oth, 1829.

1817, Arthur O'Neill, a native of Killymurris, in the
parish of Finvoy, where he was born i4th May, 1783, ordained
2nd August, 1808; he became chaplain of gaol. Died October
at
28th. 1851.
1823.
and was buried
in Carrickfergus.
curate.
Henry M'Laughlin appointed
After the death of Father O'Neill the parish was

administered by his curate. Father John M'Erlain. until Easter.
1852, when the Rev. John Cunningham was appointed parish
He was a native of the townland of
priest of Carrickfergus.
Moneyscalp. Kilcoo.
1869, November. Rev. John M'Curry.
1870. September 7th. Rev. Charles S. Quinn.
native of the parish of Lower Creggan. Co. Armagh.
He
was
Previous
to his appointment to Carrickfergus he officiated in the parishes

of Belfast. Ahoghill. and Saul.
Father Quinn remained in Carrickfergus until October ist.

when he was appointed to Duneane; he removed to
1889.
Moneyglass in 1890. and is still alive.

During his ministry
the chapel was restored in 1874, and a cemetery purchased.
He was succeeded by the Rev. Wm. Dempsey. who removed
November 24th, 1899. and is now at Downpatrick.

Father O'Boyle followed, but he removed to the Sacred
Heart, and died in one year.
Father F. C. Henry, from October, 1905.
to Newcastle.
Having laid before the reader the

we resume the account of
district,
its
chartered
origin
and
The
corporate antiquity of the place is further and

demonstrated, by the ancient rent paid to the crown,
immunities.
amply
Ecclesiastical state of the
which was "the rysinge of one mann, with a bow without a

Its charter, with thisstringe. and an arrow without feather/'
clause respecting the rent, were retained till the 7th of Queen
'
Elizabeth, when Sir Henry Sidney. Lord Deputy, causing the

mayor to lay it before him, "detayned the Charter," declaring it
was not proper that any body of men should have such
Four years after, he obtained fo~ the corporation a
privileges.
1
26l
new
in
charter from the queen, in which " her

highness promised,
lieu of the. former charter, the
walling of the Towne,
buyildinge of the Peare, and also such auncient lands as by

former Charter were held and enjoyed."
Elizabeth's charter
then proceeds to relate how much Carrickfergus had suffered

from the rebellions of the Irish, and the inroads made by the
Scotch ; and of their gallant resistance, exceeding the other cities

and towns of Ireland; and of the ecclesiastical obedience of all
the inhabitants, and their usual repairinge to the Churche, and
embracinge GOD'S true Religion and Service, a matter very
In confirmation thereof, and in hopes of
acceptable to Us.
their continuance in their good cause and carriage
by them."
The charter of incorporation, as a county and free borough,
then proceeds pretty
much
like that
of James
I.,
her majesty's
successor.
This charter being found imperfect and obscure in many

places, about 1608, the corporation petitioned his majesty James
I. for a more
ample explanation of their privileges, which was
It is more full and explicit than the former,
granted in 1612.
and begins with the following preamble: -"James by the grace

of God, of England, Scotland, France, and Ireland, king,
defender of the faith, &c., To all whom those present letters
shall come greeting.
Whereas our most loving sister Elizabeth,
late of England, Scotland, France, and Ireland, queen, by her
charter under the great seal of Ireland, bearing date at Dublin,
the 20th day of March, in the nth year of her reign, did give
and grant for her, her heirs and successors, unto the mayor,
burgesses, and commonality, of Carrickfergus, in the
County and town of Knockfergus, in our province of Ulster,
and to their successors for ever, many privileges, liberties,
sheriffs,
markets, fairs, jurisdictions, forfeitures, customs,

commodities, cognizences of pleas, immunities, grants
and other benefits and hereditaments, as by the said Letters
Patent in the Rolls of the Chancery of our realm of Ireland,
franchises,
profits,
enrolled and therein recorded, remaining, more plainly doth and

may appear." The charter then proceeds to ratify "all and all
privileges as wholly as it is in the same Lettres
Patent, or in any of them contained, or in as ample manner and
form as they themselves or their predecessors at any time hath
manner of
had, held, occupied, used, or enjoyed, or ought to have by

means of any Lawful permission use or Custom." This charter
then declares, that the place is a county corporate, by the name
262
of the County of the Town of Carrickfergus ; to be governed by
a mayor, sheriffs, burgesses, and commonalty.
It excepts from
"
their jurisdiction his Majesty's castle,
and a Certain other
"
"
for a Gaol or prison thereto to be built

for the county
place,"
of Antrim, "and within the county of Antrim." The mayor is
ordered ever after to be elected on the first Monday after the
feast of St.
John the Baptist, and
to be
sworn into
office in
the
before the constable of the castle, or his deputy.

He is
appointed clerk of the market, and a justice of peace for the
castle,
county of Antrim, with power to hold two courts of record each

week, on Monday and Friday, and leave to appoint a deputy,
with power in "all things whatsoever which doth appertain to
mayor of the Town aforesaid." In case of his

mayor is to be elected by the aldermen only. The
aldermen are limited to 17, and are to be chosen for life: no
limited number of burgesses is mentioned.
Leave is given to
the office of
a
death,
a recorder, either for

a magistrate,
"
he
his life or years ;"
also appointed
is
and may. with the consent of the mayor, and a
majority of the aldermen, "depute one of the aldermen" to be

The sheriffs are ordered to be elected by the
deputy.
his
same time as the mayor, and to be sworn into

Michaelmas, but before the aldermen
they are empowered to hold courts, and have leave to account in the court
of Exchequer by commission, and to pay only î 6 8.
corporation, at the
office
at
Leave is given to the corporation to elect a town clerk, "as

often as need shall require:" coroners are to be elected annually,
"
on the same day as the mayor." " or upon any other days when
it
shall
seem most expedient.''
The sword
bearer
is
to be chosen
"
"
so often as it shall
by the mayor, sheriffs, and aldermen.'"
"
seem fit ; and the sergeants at mace are to be appointed, from
third part of all customs

time to time, by the corporation.
are granted for the use of the corporation, from Beerlooms.
county of Down, to Fairhead, county of Antrim ; with power to
sell lands, and make bye-laws when assembledprovided the laws are not in opposition to those of the nation.
Leave is given to admit others to their freedom, with power to
buy and
disfranchise such persons as are refractory ; and no person to be

arrested in the house of the mayor, sheriffs, burgesses, or free-
men, save for treason or felony. All wrecks of the sea are also
granted, between Fairhead and Eeerlooms, save in the pool of
Garmoyle. with the right of ferry from hence to the county of
263
with leave to have a guild * of merchants, and the
Power is given to
incorporation of other trades and callings.
send two burgesses to serve in parliament. Such other parts of
Down
this charter as are
as
we proceed;
deemed worthy of
notice, shall
also the difference between
it
be mentioned
and the common
usage of this corporation
Agreeably to the charter of James
I.,
the government of the
vested in a mayor, sheriffs, aldermen, burgesses,

corporation
and commonality. The mayor is elected annually, from the
aldermen, on the first Monday after midsummer, 1 and enters
is
at Michaelmas.
He is chosen by the aldermen,
is a magistrate for this county,
and
and
commonalty,
burgesses,
and for that of Antrim. The aldermen are 17, and elect each
"
other.
By the charter, they are to be, from time to time,
"
the
and
unto
the
assisting
helping
mayor," and chosen from
free burgesses, or inhabitants;'' but there is no record of any
person being elected an alderman, on the claim of being an
into
office
inhabitant
though
several
non-residents
have
been
elected
aldermen, without having been previously burgesses, some of

whom were minors. 2
The sheriffs are chosen from the
burgesses, in the same manner, time, and place, as the mayor,
and are sworn into office, in open court, on Michaelmas day.
There was formerly no limited number of burgesses; but the

3
Assembly, about 150 years ago, restricted its number to 24,
The charter of James I. authorised a guildry under the name
"[*The two Masters and Fellows of the Guild
Merchants of the
Town of Knockfergus," and sanctioned the formation of various
Such guilds as existed in modern
subordinate guilds or fraternities.
times were those of the Hammermen, the Weavers, the Carters, the
Tailors and Glovers, the Butchers, the Trawlers and Dredgers, the
Hookers, and the Shoemakers or Cordwainers. The charters are five
in number, the first dated 2oth March, nth Queen Elizabeth,
1569;
of
May, 44th Queen Elizabeth, 1602 the third charter is

7th James I., 1610, and is illuminated in colours;
and the fifth dated i4th
charter of nth July, 7th James I., 1610
December, loth James I.. 1613.]
There have, however, been instances of the reverse. July i, 1816,
charter of 8th
dated 7th
July,
Sir William Kirk, knt., deputy mayor, after the election of the sheriffs,
the election of the mayor for four weeks.
adjourned
2
when only
April 25, 1732, lord Conway was elected an alderman
wa>
14 years of age.
August 2, 1808, the marquis of Downshire
elected an alderman, being a minor; but neglecting to take the
oaths, the aldermen a few years after rescinded their election.
necessary
'MSS. Records of Carrickfergus.

Tradition says that the burgesses
were anciently elected by the freemen but there are no notices of it
Some attempts at the like were made in September,
in our records.
1754. and September, 1802; but both failed.
Gill's
3
264
who
mayor, who has always a vote in

of the present aldermen, and
elect themselves, save the
their
election.
For a
list
burgesses, with their residences,
and time of appointment,
see
Appendix, Xo. XV. [1822].

The mayor, aldermen, and burgesses, form a council called
the Assembly, who make such bye-laws, according to charter, as
2
For
they deem proper for the government of the corporation.
some ancient bye-laws, see Appendix, No. XVI.
Assemblies of the different members of the corporation were
-
formerly held every three months; but for many years prior to
1769, there appears to have been no regular notices of the like.
In the above year, we find the following entry in our records

Ordered, that no assembly shall be held unless Public notices
be fixed up, at least ten days before such Assembly shall be
:
"
"
This time was afterwards enlarged
September 24.
that
for the future no grants made of lands or
1787, Resolved,
tenements by this corporation, or disposing of any money, shall
be good and binding, unless made at some Assembly, of which
held."
14 days previous notice shall be given of the time and place,

and the purpose for which said Assembly shall be holden. and
unless thirteen members of the Assembly shall be present, one of
whom shall be the mayor." Again, in 1814, w e find the
:
"
1814, September 23, Resolved, that

following in the records:
in
future no election for Aldermen or burgesses of this
corporation, shall be a good
Notice be given of the time
and valid election, unless 14 days

and place such election shall be so
holden."
The mayor,
for the time being, is always one of the Assembly.

being sworn into office, at the assizes, and on other public
occasions, he wears a scarlet robe, and a sword and mace are
On
carried before him, the former

a serjeant at mace.
The
first
by the sword-bearer, the
robe was given by
Wm.
latter
by
Hill, esq.,
September, 1754, some of the aldermen tendered their votes

but their votes were
mayor on an election for burgesses
September 25, 1822, on the
rejected by him as a gross innovation.
flection of Mariott Dalway, lord Edward Chichester, Joseph Macartney,
and Andrew Alexander, to be burgesses, the aldermen's votes were
to
1
In
the
Records of Carrichfcrgits.
accepted.
2
Former!}' the commonalty sent
either
four
or
two members
to
each Assembly, who were chosen annually by the commons, and signed
"
every official act, as
Representatives of the Commons :" the earliest
In
we find the following notice
notice of the like is dated 1576.
" That the Commons1701,
in the records
of this Corporation do Convene
as soon as they may Conveniently and nominate one two or three of
their members to be their representatives at all future Assemblies."
\Ve do not learn when the freemen lost this right.
:
265
to
Solomon Faith, mayor,
the gift of Col.
engraved
in 1677.
The sword and mace* were
On
Robt. Gardner, in 1712.
"Anno Domino 1712, Honorem
SWOKD AND MACli.

From a drawing
Gardner Armigeri,
Domini 1712, Donum."
Roberti
in
Honorem
the former
Civitatis suae
by
].
Civitatis,
is
Donum
W. Carey.
suae
Anno
of the finest specimens extant, and

The
for the House of Commons.
sword and mace, all that are left of the old Corporation's regalia, are
now hanging in a frame in the Town Hall.]
[*
The mace is considered one

it was taken specially
a model of
266
By the charter, the mayor may hold two courts of record each
week, "to hear, examine, and discuss, all and all manner of
actions, suits, complaints, and demands, of all and all manner
of debts, to what sum or sums soever
they do or shall amount
unto;" but only one court is occasionally held. The mayor is
from Fairhead
.also vice-admiral of the seas
to Beerlcoms,
and
can. on behalf of the corporation, claim "all Wrecks of Sea."

"happening, found, or to be found, within Beerlooms, and Fair-
head, and within the Towne, and county of the Towne afore"
for ever."
He is also empowered to issue attachments
said/'
against ships, or their cargoes, or against persons on board ships.*
for the recovery of debts, contracted any where within his
jurisand is entitled to hold a court of admiralty, 1 which
diction;
should, like all other courts of admiralty, proceed according to

the forms of the maritime law but though this authority is still
exercised, the proceedings have been confounded with those of
:
common law court.

always executed by the
Serjeants at mace.
the
However,
its
water-bailiff,
judgments have been
in exclusion of the other
The mayor was
formerly a military as well as civil officer,

of
a
being captain
company of militia, raised for the defence of
this place.
When those militia were called out, they always
received sixpence per day from the government for their trouble.
They were called out on all state occasions, such as the king's
and one of the first acts of each mayor

was reviewing their company their number was commonly about
2
sixty rank and file.
Formerly the last public act of each
mayor was going in procession, at the head of the different
birthday, and the like;
members of the corporation, to church, to hear divine service

from whence they proceeded to the castle, where the mayor elect
was sworn into office ; after which a bull was fastened to a ring
in the market-place, and baited with bull-dogs.
In the evening
the mayor always entertained a large number of the different
members of the corporation in the town-hall, which banquet was
;
called
"
the Mayor's feast"
The
"
Mayors
"
feast
was. until
[*The "Silver Oar" which was part and parcel of the town
It
regalia has long since disappeared, and its use perhaps forgotten.
was used when arrest was made on board ship in the lough without
"
" Silver Oar
no bailiff could arrest a sailor or other
producing the
person in any vessel for the recovery of debts.]
'Charter of James I.
2
3
Records of Carrickfergus. Tradition of Old Inhabitants.
;
267
about twelve years ago. annually celebrated with a very
considerable degree of Corporation pomp.
In the records is
th3 following memorandum of the plate belonging to the body
"
was used on this occasion,

Two silver bowls
one
three
small
silver
wine bowls, a
bowl,
gilt,
large
double silver salt, a silver ladle/' In 1696, we find the celebrated
Dean Swift * one of the guests at the " Mayor's feast of Henry
Clements. Those processions and feasts have long ceased, and
corporate, which
double
''
the baiting of bulls!
An
animal
is
still
was discontinued about two years ago.

upon the same day. and divided
killed
amongst the poor; each claimant also receiving a loaf of bread.

The annual salary of the mayor was anciently the corporation
20
share of the customs of this port, if it amounted to
in
he
had
also
the
wine
his
house,
of
annually
privilege
selling
from which he was prohibited in 1601, under pain of the
In 1612. we find aldermen White and
forfeiture of his stipend.
Taaffe fined for selling wine during their years of office ; but
their penalties were remitted at the request of Sir Arthur
Chichester.
1624 -The customs were taken from the mayor;
60 per annum; and in
in June. 1659. his salary was raised to
:
1767, augmented to
îco.
There were formerly numerous perquisites attached to the

In many of the old
office, amongst which were the following:
leases of this place, the tenants were bound to furnish yearly a
number of fat hens or capons to the mayor each Christmas, or a specified sum of money in lieu. The owner of the
West-mills was also bound to "Grind all such Grain as shall be
As
spent from time to time in the Mayor's house. Toll free."
certain
clerk of the market, he
had also the tongues of
all bullocks, or
cows, killed on Friday, whose flesh was sold in the markets on

Saturdays. When the Trooper-land was unoccupied, he claimed
its grass as a perquisite, and had anciently a field near the
[* Dean Swift lived at Kilroot from March, 1605, till May, 1696,
and had as his clerical neighbours, Dean Story, who was a chaplain
in King William's army, and the Rev. John Winder, vicar of Cammoney.]
[t 1812, November yth, Arthur Chichester gave a bull to be baited,
Before the fun was over the

order to revive that humane sport.
Mayor came and ordered the mob to disperse, and William Reid, giving
Records of
his worship some insolence, was committed to prison.
in
Carrickfergus.]
1
268
town
free,
a correct
which was afterwards let off to Richard Conlin. 1

of mayors, see Appendix, Xo. XVII.
For
list
The
recorder appears to have been always elected for
life,
by the entire body corporate. Formerly he inspected all leases of

houses or lands, previous to their being signed by the mayor,
and usually signed first, as a proof of his approbation; his fee
on those occasions was
35. 4d.
he also claimed
each person admitted a freeman. 2
.a
sum from
like
At present
his only duty is

attending at the quarter sessions, as a magistrate of this county :
on those occasions he explains the law, and pronounces the

judgments of the court. His deputy is not a magistrate in right
of
office.
for
20 per
1593, the salary of the recorder was
years past it has been only half that sum.
annum; but
many
On
the 8th
of April, 1819, a motion was made in the Assembly, to augment

his salary; but it failed.
In February, 1820, a like motion was
made, and the Assembly agreed as follows
"Resolved, that
the Treasurer do pay Mr. Dobbs, the Recorder, his expences
:
attending the Sessions, until such time as the Assembly shall be

The
fixed sum for his trouble."'
enabled to determine any

following
is
correct
list
of such
gentlemen as have been
recorders since 1593, with their deputies:
1593
William Lynsey
-
1596
1602
appointed April 30.
Tookfield.
Sir Thomas Hibbots, chancellor of the exchequer,

appointed October n.
1630 Sir William Sambridge; Roger Lyndon was appointed
deputy, October 19, 1639.
1641
Roger Lyndon; Henry Clements, deputy.
Sir John Lyndon; John Dobbin, deputy; 1668. Henry

1657
Clements, deputy.
1663 Sir Audley Mervin, knight, chosen recorder, but was
never sworn into
1697
1697
office
Sir
John Lyndon continued.
John Lyndon; resigned March 15.

Edward Lyndon, son of Sir John; elected
Sir
Andrew Clements, deputy.

1704 Edward
Lyndon,
continued;
deputy; 1723, John Chaplin, deputy.

1
Francis
April 8;
Clements,
269
George Macartney; elected June 6; George Spaight,
1727
deputy.
Edward Smith;
1740
Gill,
Henry
deputy;
Ellis,
deputy.
John Ludford; appointed February 19; Willoughby
1759
Chaplin, deputy.
1765
J6hn Ludford; resigned April
1765
George Hamilton; elected October 9; Hercules

afterwards George Macartney Fortes, deputy.
George Hamilton; resigned December 8.
deputy
1777
i.
Ellis,
Barry Yelverton, afterwards lord Avonmore, appointed

i/th; James Craig, deputy; Alexander Gunning,
Both those gentlemen acted as magistrates in the
deputy.
absence of the mayor.
1778
January
1806
The
Conway E. Dobbs
first
act of the
William D. Burleigh, deputy.*
new mayor
is
swearing the
sheriffs-elect
was always nominated

by the mayor, and called the mayor's sheriff ; but when in court,
the sheriff elected by the different members of the corporation,
into
office.
Formerly, one of the
sheriffs
always took the right of the mayor's sheriff. So lately as 1743.

we find the mayor appointing one of the sheriffs. 2
6 13 4
In 1 60 1, the salaries of the sheriffs were settled at
any other fee:" and in July, 1624, we find the

"Ordered, that from hencefollowing notice in the records
forth the Twenty Nobles allowed yearly from the Towne to the
Sheriffs, and the Three Pounds allowed them yearly for entertayning ther Attorneys at his Majestys Courts att Dublin, shall
be resumed into the Townes hands and be no more allowed, and
each, "without
from henceforth shal rest contented, and onely have

from the Towne all such fynes as shal growe due for Batteryes
& Bloodsheds within this Towne & Countye for their stipend."
10 each,
November, 1732, their salaries were augmented to
3
20 each, which still continues.
and in March, 1797. to
the sheriffes
The sheriffs are empowered by charter, to account annually in

the court of exchequer, by attorney, on paying to the officers of
the said court î 6 8 yearly, which appears to have been
[*
have not been able
2
3
to obtain the
when
names of Recorders and

was dissolved.]
the corporation
Deputies up
till
1842,
their
formerly adhered
In 1731,
to, though occasionally in dispute.
find the sheriffs merely swearing their accounts before the
mayor of this place, prior to their being forwarded to Dublin
we
and
in 1740,
it
appears they paid just
î
8,
on passing
their
For many years prior to 1787, the sheriffs are said

to have made no return to said court whatever.
Some time in
1797, a writ for the amount of fees and fines, was issued from
accounts.
the court of exchequer against the sheriffs, the settlement of

which cost
45 18 z\, paid by the Assembly out of the rents of
the corporation.
This affair was no sooner settled, than the
sheriffs relaxed into their usual inattention ; and every year
tipstaffs came from Dublin to arrest the sheriffs, but were
In
usually obliged to return without effecting their purpose.
Thomas Kirk, one of the sheriffs, was arrested by
August, 1814,
the deputy serjeant at arms, on an order from the court of

Exchequer, and taken to Dublin, where he remained till
December, when he was liberated on paying ^35. A like order

in
was issued against his coleague, Robert Magowan;
attempting to settle which, he paid the following sums, and was
at the trouble and expense of three journies to Dublin:
fees
for four years accounting, to the officers of the pipe, ^72 16;
to the serjeant at arms,
for reducing a custodian, ^37 5 ;
;
to the pursuivant, for the like, .25 12 7 ; to an attorney, ^21
174; and fines to the amount of .200, still remained against
^50
him
his
at
Thomas
death,
in
1817.
Miller, sheriffs,
In
1815,
John Campbell and
went to Dublin, and accounted
totted,
of Exchequer, and paid

31 10, as fees for one
In 1817,
year of office: and in 1816, they paid a like sum.
they again paid as before; but understanding soon after that
they had been imposed on, they complained to one of the
in the court
judges, who caused several of those harpies to repay them a

3
These sheriffs were afterwards allowed
considerable sum.
the assembly, for their expenses in the first two years ;
1820, the extra trouble and expense of the
sheriffs in going to Dublin, and passing their accounts, was
^50, by
and
in
January,
Records of Carrickfergus. Gill's MSS.

January, 1820, the Assembly ordered ^150 to be paid to his
w'dow, out of the rents of the corporation, for losses sustained by Mr.
1
Magowan.
3
The following
annexed
are
the
officers since that
sums paid by the
time
sheriffs
yearly
to
the
271
settled
at
40 yearly.
The
sheriffs
receive
still
[received],
annually, one shilling from each vessel trading hither, by the

name of chapman gill; which money is [was] collected for the
purpose of burying mariners, or others who may be [were]
cast ashore within this district.
Tradition says this money was
formerly collected by the monks of some of the monastic houses

of this place, as spiritual service money
hence, probably.
:
chaplain or chapel geld, or gelt
money for the chaplain or

chapel; geld or gelt, being formerly a name for money. For a
list of sheriffs, see the same Appendix as
Mayors.
There are two coroners the charter declares that they are to
be elected yearly by the corporation, on the same day as he
ma\or, "or upon any other day when it shall seem most
expedient," and enter into office the same time as the mayor;
:
but these
many
years past they have been always elected for

salaries attached to those offices, and
There are no annual
life.
their only perquisites arise from the

their usual fee for each inquest is
number of inquests held

i
which
8,
is
obtained
from the county by presentment to the grand jury at assi/,e.

Formerly, the sheriffs, on going out of office, became coroners
for the following year, save when the same persons continued
sheriffs two years, in which case the assize, or quarter session
grand juries appointed two burgesses to be coroners, no other
One of the coroners was
being deemed eligible to said office.
" 2
"
perhaps from his
speaker of the commons ;
anciently called
To
the Chief Baron
Secretary, Lord
urer's office
Pursuivant
f'.erk of the Pipe

Comptroller
Foreign Opposer
.
Summonster
Usher
First
Fruits office
Chief Baron, further.
ance and stamp

Clerk in second Remembrancer's office
.
for
To
Nil!
the
certificate
same
entering
account
of
o jq
o
i^
68
i
Same
Stamp
o 13
ing
of
transcript
for
totts
examining
foreign accounts
Puisne Barons, each
transcript
o
6
026
068
026
4
o 13
034
oil
070
6
Teller of the Exchequer o
Waifs and Estrays

Rent of office
o$
for
Auditor General
Clerk of the Pipe
Chief Baron for sign-
Same
6
for certificate
sheriffs'
Opposer
schedule
o
o
o 13
o 14
o 13
for
Summonster
Foreign
Comptroller of the Pipe o

1
Treas-
o 10
io.\
o
o
272
being their orator at public meetings. The present coroners arj
* and
Adam
Frazer.
Cunningham
John
the charter, the corporation may "from time to time, and

"
as often as need shall require,"
appoint one honest and discreete
By
man to be town-clerk," who is also clerk of the peace for the

county and town, and returns all estreates to the court of Exchequer; though it appears, that in 1747, and some years after,
he made no returns of estreates. 1 The town clerk was formerlyby the different members of the body corporate, on a
regular notice by the mayor to that effect, and was always chosen
for life the present officer was appointed at a numerous meeting
of the corporation without one dissentient voice. In former times
elected
he was also chamberlain of the corporation, and was free from

levies and assessments.
In 1606, his salary was settled at
^4 per annum; but in 1740, we find it only ^2. About 1760. it
all
to ^7 10, the present salary [1839].

December
1773, at a meeting of the aldermen, it was raised to ;io per
annum; but at the first Assembly after, it was again lowered,
was augmented
4,
2
The
having been raised without consent of the burgesses.
is
a
correct
list
of
the
town
with
the
clerks,
following
years of
appointment
1574, Gregory
Grafton;
Thomas
1590,
Henry Sibthorp ; 1588.

Vaughan ; 1596. Richard
Newton; 1602, Dudley Yerworth; 1610, Richard O Kane
1663, Edward Yeo; 1666. Hugh
1651, Richard O'Cahan
Smyth; 1707, Edward Williamson; 1720. James Kirk; 1765,
Butler;
1577,
Thomas
Daniel Kirk;
Robert
[*
1786,
Magowan;
Daniel Kirk, son of the former;
1818,
Adam Cunningham
1806,
Adam Cunningham.! 3
died 2gth December,
1837,
and on the
251)1
Samuel Parkhill and George P. Price were appointed

J. K. Jackson
1863, A Markham
1865, Dr. Dill
1852 till
Dr. Taggart died loth
i8b8, Surgeon-Major D. R. Taggart, M.D.
1886, when Dr. Arthur Mussen, the present coroner, was
April,
January,
1838,
1863,
appointed.]
MSS.
Gill's
died 2gth December, 1837, when David

and James Stannus, jun., offered themselves for the
office of town clerk, and a poll being demanded by the latter, the
election continued from the 25th January (1838) till the 27th, when
Mr. Stannus gave in, 301 having polled for him, and 495 for Mr. Legg.
David Legg died 2Oth March, 1854, and was succeeded by Robert
Bowman. In 1865 Thomas Digby Johns, solicitor, was appointed
he retired in 1885 (died 1894), when the present Town Clerk, James
Mr. Boyd is also Clerk of the t'rban District
Boyd, was appointed.
Council and Petty Sessions Clerk.]
3
[fAdam Cunningham
Legg,
solicitor,
273
The
charter declares, that the mayor, sheriffs,

time to time, as often as it shall
and aldermen,
may "from
be needful,"
appoint a sword-bearer; and he has commonly been appointed
by the Assembly, though in some instances by the mayor for
the time being.
His only duty is carrying the sword of state
before the mayor, at assizes, and on the mayor's being sworn
^5
into office; his salary is

per annum, without any fees.
find the following persons sword-bearers in the annexed
years
We
:
1666, Robert Savage; 1672, James Savage; 1684, James Byrt ;

1721, Nathaniel Byrt, son of James; 1749, Daniel Kirk; 1780,
Hugh Clements; 1787, Barry Martin; 1797, Thomas B.
1
Martin; 1817, John Smyth.
There are four sergeants

the
mayor,
at
mace.
The
charter says, that
and commonalty, may " from

and
name, choose,
appoint" those persons, but,
sheriffs,
burgesses,
time to time,
with the exception of one, who is also water bailiff, they have
been usually nominated by the mayor, though in some cases by
the Assembly.
Their salaries are ^4 per annum each.
One
of those persons is authorised by charter to be water bailiff, and
appears to have been always chosen by the Assembly, who
formerly let off, at an annual rent, the joint offices of water
and harbour master. The rent for these offices varied

^2 10 to ^3 per annum. The following extract from
the records shows one of those appointments:
"February 2ist,
bailiff
from
1684,
the
said
James
Byrt,
shall
diligently
exact
attend,
measures shall keep, planks, posts, and other necessaries, fit for
mooring, loading, & unloading of Vessels, shall have in
Key, Sluce. and Water course thereto, the said

James Byrt, at his proper coast and Charges shall forthwith
The water bailiff and
sufficiently amend, scour and clean."
harbour-master has long ceased to pay for these offices ; he
the present water bailiff was appointed by
receives no salary
2
The bailiwick extends from Fairhead to Beerthe Assembly.
readiness, the
The usual fee for

pool of Garmoyle excepted.
their
vessels
or
a
writ
cargoes, or persons on
executing
against
board vessels, is us. 4|d. The following are the names of
house,
the
those noticed in the records, as water bailiffs*:
[*In 1842 James Stannus, jun., was appointed water bailiff, or
harbour master; 1858, Alexander Jones; 1892, David Robb
1908,
Captain Robert Shaw, the present harbour master.]
2
19
274
1509, John
Nathaniel
Lugg;
1673, John Byrt ; 1684, James Byrt ;

Byrt; 1760, John Seeds; 1790. Alexander
Gunning; 1809, Daniel Gunning; 1814, Hugh Cunningham.
For a table of the ancient and present fees of the different
offices of the corporation, see Appendix, Xo. XVIII. [1700,
1722,
1800].
There
is
likewise a treasurer of the corporation,
who has
been always appointed by the Assembly. Formerly, the mayor,

for the time being, was the only treasurer; but in 1767, Hercules
Ellis was appointed treasurer, with an annual salary of ^10,
which in 1770 was altered to one shilling to every pound
John Seeds was afterwards appointed, who was

succeeded by Alexander Gunning,* esq., the present treasurer,
received.
appointed September 20, I786.
The corporation formerly appointed a trumpeter, at a

i 10 per annum, and a
yearly salary of ^2 10, a fiddler, at
drummer, at -i 5 :~ with the exception of the drummer, who
warned out the militia on state or extraordinary occasions, we
have not learned what their services were.
By the charter, the corporation is empowered to send two

burgesses to parliament; and from this place being so earlycreated a corporate district, it probably possessed that privilege as
soon as assemblies w ere ordered to be held by the English in this
r
The numerous
feuds to which it was so much exposed,

are believed to have retarded the sending of members for many
years, as none are noticed in the rolls of parliament prior to
kingdom.
Indeed, previous to the reign of queen Elizabeth, the

1559.
other parts of Ulster appear to have been in a similar state.
In 1295, Sir John Wogan, lord justice, held a parliament, or
more properly an assembly of the noted persons of such parts

as were possessed by the English.
Only 27 members were
a
list
of
are
whom
present,
given by Cox, in his History of
Ireland
the only person from Ulster is Richard de Burgo,
earl of Ulster; from which it would seem he represented that
:
province.
In an Irish parliament, held at Westminster, in 1376,
f* Alexander Gunning died October i^th, 1823, and was succeeded

by Henry Adair, who was appointed April igth, 1824. The following
arc the names of those we find succeeding
1842, George Shean
1884, James
1877, Russel Ker Bowman
1852 till 1863, James Wilson
1886, George Gray; 1896, Robert Alexander; 1902, Henry
Boyd
the
solicitor,
Blackburne,
present Treasurer.]
1
2
:
275
1
only 12 counties, and 9 cities or boroughs, in the whole kingdom, sent members thither. Ulster at this time was either out of
the English power, or so miserably poor and uncivilized, from

2
the incessant broils, that not one member is noticed from it.
In the subsidy granted by the Irish parliament to the king in

1420, of which the names of places, and proportion levied, are
3
given, no notice is taken of Ulster.
The sending of members to the great council of the nation,
was besides
in these times often a compulsory act, their conIn the tenendi

having to pay them for attendance.
Parliament, signed by King Henry II., it is ordered, that the
expenses of two citizens or burgesses do not exceed half a mark
stituents
This regulation was afterwards altered in the reign

of Edward II., knights of the shire had five shillings per day,
and citizens and burgesses two; which sum was considered such
a grievance, that the people strove to evade sending members, or
agreed with them on easier terms. The wages were afterwards
raised: in 1614, knights of the shire had thirteen shillings and
four pence per day, citizens ten shillings, and burgesses six
Their wages were recoverable from
shillings and eight pence.
sheriffs, mayors and bailiffs, in the Exchequer; the king, at the
end of each session, usually concluded by desiring the commons
to sue for their fees.
In the parliament which met in 1613,
Thomas Hibbots and Humphrey Johnston, citizens, represented
Carrickfergus, and attended between the i8th of May, 1613,
and 24th of October, 1615, 147 days: their wages amounted to
per day.
^98.
The custom continued
till
about 1662, when
it
finally
ceased. 3
Previous to the union with Great Britain, this corporation

always returned two burgesses to serve in parliament; but since
that period only one is returned.
It is a very honourable trait
in the history of this place, that its representatives in parliament
have often distinguished themselves, by standing forward in
defence
of the
rights
and
liberties
of the nation.
On
the
1
The following is a list of such counties and cities as sent
members thither
Counties Dublin, Louth, Kildare, Cork, Carlow,
:
and
Limerick,
Meath,
Waterford,
YVexford,
Kilkenny,
Kerry,
Cities
Dublin, Drogheda, Waterford, Limerick, Cork,
Tipperary.
Kilkenny, Ross, Wexford, and Youghall. AnlhoJogta, Hibernica.
2
s
4
Ware's Antiquities.
Anthologia
Commons.
Hibernica,
MSS.
Journals
of
the
Irish
House
of
276
important question of free trade, both members warmly supported that measure; and also showed their firmness on the
motion for -parliamentary reform, in 1793. In 1799 and 1800.
the representatives, Ezekial Davys Wilson and Noah Dalway,
strenuously opposed the legislative union with Great Britain.
Both ranged
in the ranks of those virtuous senators
that measure to the last.
On
who
resisted
the question of the criminality of
the duke of York, the then member, James Craig, distinguished

himself ; and also in supporting the bill for the relief of the
Roman Catholics. For a list of the members sent from this
corporation,
from the
earliest period, see
Appendix, Xo.
XIX.
The
corporation has the privilege of making freemen at

will
the mayor can open a court, on giving 14 days' public
notice, for the admission of those eligible, any where within the
:
liberties.
Courts for the purpose were formerly held at the

which were kept open by adjournment until
had the necessary claims were duly admitted. 1
quarter sessions,
such
as
Tradition says that birth, marriage, and servitude, were the

ancient claims to the freedom of this corporation, and that all
who were admitted
without such claims, were either elected by
the freemen then present, or admitted by special favour.

charter is obscure as to the manner of admission ; but
The
the
and serving an apprenticeship of "seven years," within the franchises, as legal and ancient
claims, but take no notice of marriage, and declare that all
records, in 1657, mention birthright,
"otherwise admitted free." shall pay a fine of ,10.

In 1598, the freemen were reduced to sixteen;
in 1669,
they amounted to 139; in 1683, to 302; and in 1712. to near
one hundred and forty of whom belonged to Belfast. 2

About this time it was customary to make non-residents free, by
merely sending them a ticket to that effect ; and, as a matter of
3
In 1740,
courtesy, the commissioned officers of the garrison.
the resident freemen are said to have been reduced to about 60 ;
and in the following year, we find 120 ticket freemen of this
500
4
place residing in Killultagh.
MSS. Records
of Carrickfergus.
September, 1741, the Killultagh ticket freemen marched in here
with beat of drum, to poll at an election for a burgess to serve in
This proceeding highly exasperated the resident freemen,
parliament.
and a scuffle took place in the streets between the parties, in which
the Killultagh men were worsted, and had their drum broken.
They,
4
277
i74 2 October n, Willoughby Chaplin, mayor, opened a
court at the quarter sessions, and admitted 170 persons to the
freedom of the corporation; and at an adjournment of the
>
same
he admitted 77 persons, and 17 afterwards.
sessions,
These sessions were dissolved
in January,
1743.'
During
this
court, eight or nine persons, residing in the village of "Strade,

presented" themselves to be made free, but were "objected
against by Several of the freemen, as they did not pay taxes to

Town, which objection was approved of by the mayor, who
this
declared it was his own opinion that they ought not to be

"That part of
admitted, and accordingly they were rejected.'
2
the village of Strade is within the franchises of this Town.'"
'
Willoughby Chaplin, mayor, also admitted a number of

no claims are noticed, and all
3
objections were "determined by the mayor only.''
1744
inhabitants to their freedom
1757
Henry Ellis, mayor, opened a court for the
admission of freemen; but a tumult arising in consequence of
his proceeding to admit some of his tenants from Strade, or
Straid, whom some of the old freemen objected to, on the
alleged ground of non-residence, he adjourned the court to an
adjoining stable, where he admitted the persons who resided on
1
The persons thus

admitted were afterwards called stablemen, and their freedom
Straid
land,
was fully
and a number of
established.
others.
however, polled, and made a considerable majority in favour of Francis

Clements, who was in consequence returned by the sheriffs, Nathaniel
In November, the same year, Robert
Byrt and Robert Chaplin.
Dalway, the unsuccessful candidate, and the resident burgesses and

freemen, petitioned the House of Commons, complaining of an undue
election and return, and against non-resident freemen voting at elections.
The House, after a committee of inquiry had made its report, declared,
and " that ticket
that neither of the candidates were duly elected
freemen made by the mayor of Carrickfergus only, or by the mayor
and sheriffs, without the concurrence of the other constituent parts of
the corporation, have not any right to vote for the electing members
to serve in parliament for the county of the town of Carrickfergus."
Tradition of Old Inhabitants. Journals of the Irish House of Commons.
1
:
2
3
4
Gill's
Gill's
MSS.
MSS.

These persons are said to have been the first who were admitted
from Straid land. This is an error. In June, 1711. eighteen persons
from Straid polled at the election of a mayor, and Thomas Barry and
" Resided within the
David M'Clurgh, freemen, made oath, that they
mears and bounds of the Liberty of the Corporation, as the Meares
and Bounds of the Same were Generally Known and Reden to their
Certain Knowledge's." Records of Carrickfergus.
5
2 7S
1758 Willoughby Chaplin, mayor, admitted a number of

persons to the freedom of this corporation; they were afterwards called oustermen, because the mayor was ousted of the
the late mayor not having been present at the
These freemen underswearing into office of the mayor-elect.
went a strict scrutiny, but were established, because they had
mayoralty,
1
"polled prior to the scrutiny.
Early in 1769, E. D. Wilson, mayor, opened a court, after

and admitted 45 inhabitants to be freemen, who were
night,
afterwards called lanternmen.
They were broke soon
after,
there having been no previous notice for admitting persons to

the right of franchise.
The same year, he opened a court,
after a regular notice, and admitted 413 persons to be freemen.
Hercules Ellis, mayor, opened a court in the

1775
market house, and admitted a number of persons to the
franchises of the corporation, who were called market-housemen;
soon after he also held a court in his parlour, where the freeman's oath was taken by a number of persons. The latter were
called -parlourmen, and, with the others, were disfranchised,
there having been no regular notice given for the admission of
persons entitled.
1780, September, E. D. Wilson, mayor, admitted 55
persons to the freedom of the place ; and the following year
Sir William Kirk, mayor, about the like number.
September.
1787, the latter admitted 263 persons, and in the following

December, E. D. Wilson 195, making a total of 1200 freemen.
At those admissions many were admitted on the claim of being
six months resident, and having paid parish taxes ; all objections
were decided by the mayor.
1802, June, E. D. Wilson, mayor, admitted 487 persons to
be freemen of this place. Soon after an information was filed
against those persons, for not being

custom, and some of them FOOLS.
made freemen
agreeable to
defence being taken,
September, 1803, Sir William Kirk,
they were disfranchised.
166
admitted
persons to be freemen: the fee of
mayor,
No
admission at those times was four shillings and four pence.

1807, July, Xoah Dalway, mayor, admitted 426 persons to
the franchise of the place.
In this court, freemen's sons, sons-
an apprenticeship within
freeholders of this county, and grandsons of
in-law, those serving, or having served

this corporation,
1
279
freemen, by the father's side, were admitted as of right; also
some others by special -favour, being long resident. Freemen's
sons, though not born in wedlock, were also admitted, and some
persons married to daughters of freemen,
An
was made
bom
in a like
manner.
in this court
by several freemen, to
the admission of persons residing on Straid land and Little
Ballymena, which the objectors alleged to be without the
franchises, as the persons, nor lands, paid no taxes to this
A suit was soon after filed in the court of King's
county.
Bench, by the Rev. Edward May, and three other persons,
against such of the above freemen as resided on the disputed
lands, and soon after against the whole of those made at that
time, on the alleged ground, that the mayor and freemen had no
objection
right to admit persons to their freedom, without their first having

memorialed the Assembly to that effect.
This suit was tried in the county of Antrim court, on the
2ist of March, 1810, before baron M'Clelland, and a special
"
that the lands of

jury of said county, who returned a verdict,
Straid and Little Ballymena were without the franchises, though
still belonging to the corporation of Carrickfergus.
The free1
men, residing on those lands, who had been made within seven
years, were accordingly disfranchised
they amounted to about
eighty ; but the right of freemen's sons, and sons-in-law, was
:
fully established.
The
This
suit cost the parties
main
upwards of ^4.600.
of placing the
admission of freemen wholly in the -power of the Assembly.
1809, September, E. D. Wilson, mayor, admitted 16
persons to their freedom, all claiming by right; in August. 1811,
plaintiffs
lost
their
object,
that
and servitude, and in

would have admitted others,
had not the town clerk and his deputy absented themselves, and
carried off the books of entry, on the morning of the i2th, prior
to the mayor-elect being sworn into office.
67.
on
like claims, viz., birth, marriage,
September. 1813, 221 persons.
He
1814, September, the Marquis of Donegall, mayor, opened

a court for the admission of such persons as were legally
entitled to their freedom.
Proceeding to admit some freemen's
1
The great cause of this verdict was the roads and bridges of
The following are
these lands being made by the county of Antrim.
the names of the jury
James Watson, James L. Moor, William
:
Sherman, Robert Williamson, Charles Dickey, Alexander Davison.

Henry Clark, Edward Curtis, James Ferguson, William Williamson,
James Dickey, John M'Cance.
a8o
who
sons
held lands within this corporation, but who, it was

bounds of franchise,
affirmed, were not then residing within the
such a clamour arose against this measure, that he closed the

Only ten were made, none of whom were objected to.
1818,
September, Sir William Kirk, deputy mayor,
court.
admitted 59 persons to the freedom of the place.

Eight of
* was admitted
in court by the freemen, one
by
special favour, the others claimed by right ; two of the latter on
them were elected
the claim of their grandfather having been free, one of them by

his mother's side.
1819, September, the Rev. Richard Dobbs, mayor, held a

court for admitting such persons to be freemen as claimed by
right
only ten were made, all of whom had paid cess to this
:
The freemen now amount
county.
admitted as of right, pay
to
stamp duty
about
800.
others,
^3.
Those
On the 1 2th of September, Sir Arthur Chichester,

1829.
the following strange notice, which was posted
issued
mayor,
on the door of the Market-House. " I hereby give notice, that
a Meeting of the Assembly will be held at the hour of Ten
in the forenoon of Saturday, the Twenty-sixth instant,
o Clock,
at
the Market-House,
in the
said
Town, for the purpose of
considering the Claims of such Persons as have lodged their

Petitions with me, for Admission to the Freedom of this
The said Petitioners are requested to attend on

corporation.
that day, at the above hour, prepared with the necessary proofs
of their respective claims. Dated this twelfth day of September,
1829^ Arthur Chichester, Mayor."
[*
The author of this "History," the

the same day a paper, of which
On
late
Samuel M'Skimin.]
is a copy, was
and though both
posted on the door of the county of Antrim Hall
these papers were in the handwriting of the town-clerk, they were
merely copied by him from others drawn out by a gentleman of the
town, "learned in the law."
" I
hereby give notice, that I will, on Monday the twenty-eighth
instant, at the hour of eleven o'clock in the forenoon, hold a Court
in the Court-House of the said Town, for the purpose of admitting
such of the persons who have lodged Petitions with me to be admitted
to the Freedom of the said Corporation, as shall have been found
the following
;
Arthur Chichester, Mayor.

Dated this i-fth day of
Ent. Adam Cunningham, Town-Clerk."
so
contents
of
these
notices
were
The
very different from any ever
and
issued on the like occasions that they excited no little attention
they were at once viewed as an insidious prelude to destroy the
Freemen, by placing their Right of Admission in the hands of the
Aldermen and Burgesses, who with three exceptions were absentees,
and two of these three under the direct influence of the Marquis of
Donegal), under whose auspices a similar attempt had been made in
entitled
thereto.
September, 1829.
On the 2;th of July, the Marquis of Donegall,

1830.
mayor, opened a court for the admission of Freemen, but a
riot being got up, no persons were admitted by him.
August 27th, Lord Edward Chichester, Deputy
Mayor, opened a court in the street, which was kept open by
adjournment, until 373 persons were admitted to the right of
franchise.
Some of these were minors, a few by special favour,
who were even non-residents; and others were admitted on the
claim of servitude, all of whose claims were false.
1831,
November nth, agreeable
1837,
to public notice,
posted
eight days before, Peter Kirk, Esq., mayor, opened a court for
the admission of persons to the freedom of the Corporation,
no were admitted, all of whom claimed by right; none

All claimants were strictly
were found entitled by servitude.
examined by the court, as also by the Freemen, previous to
when
admission.
1810.
A
the 24th,
numerous meeting
of the Freemen was therefore held on

who entered into spirited resolutions against the projected
and appointed a Committee of seven of their body, " to
innovations
take legal advice as to the proper steps to counteract the said attack
upon their Corporate Rights and Privileges."
Agreeable to the intimation in the first notice, on the a6th the
Mayor and a fe\v members of the Assembly arrived from Belfast, and
immediately after his Worship sent for one of the claimants (a pet),
who he earnestly entreated to submit his claims for admission to the
"
would certainly be approved of." Immediately after
Assembly, as he
his Worship and friends entered the Market-House, where the Sergeants
at Mace called over the names of the Petitioners
but though they were,
Defeated in this grand scheme
mostly, within call, none answered.
the meeting was adjourned to the county of Antrim Hall, followed by
a dense multitude who had remained in the street.
Here the names
of the petitioners were again called over, and they were again requested to submit their claims to the Assembly, but none attended the
call
His Worship was now told that the Freemen saw the drift of
his proceedings, and that no persons should then, nor at any other
time, lay their claims before the Assembly, as the Old Freemen were the
only judges of the claimants for admission, the Assembly having no
After a good deal of noise
right whatever to meddle in their affairs.
and confusion, the court finally broke up, evidently much disappointed,
and in sober sadness the members sought their way to Belfast.
On the a8th, his Worship the Mayor arrived agreeable to his
notice of this date, accompanied by the Sheriffs, and several aldermen
from Belfast, and opened his court in the county of Antrim Hall. On
the names of the Petitioners being called, their claims for admission
were examined by the Freemen his Worship acknowledging the right
claimed, by asking such Freemen as were present, if they were satisfied
that the claimants should be sworn.
Thirty-three persons were in this
manner admitted to the right of franchise, all of whom were at least
twenty-one years of age, were resident, and claimed by right.
;
282
The
freemen
following are some additional notices regarding the
1839, December, Marriott Dalway, Esq., Mayor, opened a

court for admission of freemen, when 131 were enrolled.
1852, July, August, September, the
254 David Legg, Town Clerk.
number admitted were
1858, April, Robert Bowman, Town Clerk, opened a court,

and the number enrolled were 160, many of whom claimed by
birth.
1864, August,
136 were admitted to the freedom of the
corporation.
court,
Robert Bowman,
October,
1865,
and 91 were
Town
Clerk, opened
enrolled.
1873, February ist, Thomas Digby Johns, Town Clerk,

opened a court for the enrolment of freemen, under a commission
from the Lord Lieutenant, dated ist September, 1870. The
number admitted on this occasion was 161. May 24th, Mr.
Johns held a court
in the
Town
Hall, for the examination of
and enrolment of freemen of the borough ;

135 claims were lodged, and 91 admitted.
1876, March nth, Saturday, Thomas Digby Johns, Town
The
Clerk, opened a court for the admission of freemen.
conditions under which applicants claim are birth, marriage and
servitude.
There had been no claims lately under the third
condition.
The oath now was that of allegiance, while the
former one was so solemn, strict, and binding, that many
applicants left the table on hearing it read, and refused to
subscribe it.
The claims lodged were 51; only 39 put in an
appearance, 38 of whom were admitted and one rejected as
the claims, admission,
This
under age.
is
the
first
enrolment ever held in which
agents did not interfere, and this accounts for the

unprecedented smallness of the claims. The Ballot Act was the
political
great change, and a certain portion of the

finding that a vote was now of no commercial
value, could not see the force of paying the fee of admission,
\vhich was only seven shillings in all.
cause
of
the
community,
1878, February 2oth, Mr. Johns, Town Clerk, opened a

for the admission of freemen, when the only person
enrolled was Hugh Cunningham Kelly, Seaview House, Greencourt
island,
who claimed admission by
birth.
July 6th, a court was opened in the Town Hall for the
enrolment of freemen, when the number admitted by Mr. T. D.
Johns was 96.

1880, July 29th, 176 were admitted at this court by Mr.
Johns, Town Clerk; many of whom claimed by marriage.
1883. December ist, a court was opened for the enrolment
of freemen, when on this occasion 56 were admitted by Mr.
Johns.
1884, July 1 2th, Mr. Thomas Digby Johns, Town Clerk,

the Court-house, and opened the last court * for the
admission of freemen, in pursuance of the warrant of the Lord
sat
in
Lieutenant,
directed
to
him for
that
purpose,
in
September,
1870.
In the charter of queen Elizabeth, leave is given to have a

guild of merchants, called "free Merchants of the Staple,"
which in 1593 were restricted by the Assembly to twenty, and
no others were suffered to buy or
The
privileges of this
charter of James I. in the same
10.
under a penalty of
were confirmed by -the
"manner and form," as those of
sell here,
guild
Dublin; and the mayor of the corporation, on going out of

became, the following year, "mayor of the staple." Two
of the burgesses were also chosen annually as wardens, and
called "constables of the staple." May, 1622, a new charter was
office,
granted to those "Staplers," with similar
liberties as those
of the
town of Sligo.
The usual fine paid for admission into this
It is believed to have been continued till the
guild was ;io.
sale of the customs in 1637.
The trades and callings are united in seven guilds ; their
affairs are regulated by a master and two wardens, chosen
annually.
They meet every three months, and dine together at
Christmas, at which time the marquis of Donegall presents each
[*At previous courts each freeman, on his admission, was obliged
Some time ago the
pay a fee of 5/- and i/- for his certificate.
Municipal Commissioners of the Borough abolished the fee, consequently
a large addition to the roll at the present court was expected.
Only
a number very much smaller than usual.
fifty claims were lodged
These
freemen.
of
Thirty-three were admitted to the privileges
in fact it may
privileges have of late years been very much curtailed
be said the only privileges a freeman enjoys at present is the right to
Freemen formerly claimed their
vote for a member for the borough.
right to shares of the Great Commons, but the latter having been
taken by the Commissioners, and let for the benefit of the town, these
rights no longer exist, and all freemen and ratepayers now derive a
to
benefit indirectly, as the revenue goes for the benefit of the corporation.]
1
Lodge's Collections.
284
with two guineas.
The Hammermen trade have long
ceased to accept this gratuity.
This corporation has been often represented as fully under
the influence of the Chichester family; 1 but it is certainly not
trade
However, the
subject to the controul of any family or party.
marquis of Donegall has a very considerable influence, especially
in the
Assembly
and many have free houses* and lands from
Of late years he has

been extending his influence, by dividing his lands here into
him, evidently for electioneering purposes.

smaller portions.
Before taking leave of corporate
affairs
it
may
not be amiss
how
the records are kept, which are so very often

referred to in this work. The chief part of them is lodged in a
to notice
strong oaken chest,
Town
Chest," t
made
which
is
in
1602, and
commonly
for the time being.

It has three locks
one of the keys
by the mayor, and the others by two of the aldermen ; it
:
rarely
opened.
While
the
Commons
continued
"The
called
usually kept in the house of the
to
mayor
is
kept
is
very
a
send
representative to the Assembly, one of the keys was kept by

The remaining records are kept by the town clerk and
them.
the treasurer for the county.

1
Hibernian Magazine, 1784. Anthologia Hibernica, 1793.

[*i834, April 26th, John Mulholland, bailiff, began giving out 96
or 97 notices to quit to the tenants of the Marquis of Donegall \vho
held free grounds and houses from him for electioneering purposes.
There are now no guilds of any kind, and the lands of the
Marquis of Donegall, are, through the late Countess of Shaftesbury,
arl of
daughter of the third Marquis of Donegall, the property of the
Shaftesbury.
The charters, records, and old

t This chest has disappeared.
freeman's roll (which measures 6 inches wide and is the length of the
Town Hall) are, with the latter freeman's roll, kept in the Town Hall.]
HISTORY,
&c,,
OF CARRICKFERGUS.
PART
IV.
of the maritime parts of Ulster by

1182, this district was held by an Irish
chief, called O'Heoghy, surnamed Dunslave, i.e. of the
It is, however, more than probable that he was
mountains. 1
to the conquest
the
PRIOR
English,
merely a vassal, or follower, of the O'Neills,* paramount lords

of the province ; which opinion receives support from its being
formerly claimed by that branch of the O'Neill family who
2
Indeed, the
claims of the Irish chieftains to their former possessions were
invariably revived on every attempt to cast off the yoke of the
resided
at
Castle
Clanboy,
alias
Castlereagh.
invaders ; and they were often so far successful, that for many
centuries the English were rather nominal than real masters of
Ulster.
This is strikingly exemplified in the records of our
corporation, from which it is evident, that though Carrickfergus
was the chief hold of the English in those parts, and the seat of
the governor of a large and populous district of the province,

in
yet, so lately as 1581, some of the Brelion laws were still
force here,
chief
and the inhabitants paid a yearly
who claimed
From several
held,"
and the
the district.
tribute to the Irish
allusions in our records, to lands "auncientlie

appears that the lands in this county were
like, it
These
its inhabitants on their first incorporation.
the
of
the
are
have
obtained
believed
to
patronage
through
they
4
earls of Ulster, who had a royal liberty within the province,
granted to
which we allege to have been Carrickfergus, since
it
was the only
county palatine in Ulster. This opinion is strengthened by the

report of baron Finglas, who, in his Discourse on the Decay
of Ireland, written about 1534, mentions this county as one of
1
Campbell's Strictures.
See page 151-]
Harris's History of the County of Down.
Records of Carrickfergus see page 29 of
|*
2
3
Davies's Historical Tracts.
this
work.
288
the five shires in
formerly belonging to
Ulster,
its
powerful
earls.
Still, from the frequent invasions and intestine commotions,
the extent or bounds of those lands remained long vague and
However, on the suppression of the rebellion raised

Shane
a greater degree of confidence took place, new
O'Neill,
by
grants were made of the escheated lands, and former charters
and deeds confirmed, or renewed in a more ample manner, to
such as had been forward to assist in its suppression.
The
uncertain.
languid
state
of
agriculture
exemplified in the following
about
this
period
is
document taken from our
strikingly
records.
"H. Sydney.
By the L. Deputie.
Whereas the inhabitaunts of Cragfergus hath certayne
Corne growing on the ground besides the said Towne of
Cragfergus, which they and ther adherants hath sowed to ther
no small chardges we comand that no persons of what Estate
degree or condition he or they be of, do not take any part of the
"
said corne without agreeing with the owner, thereof, as for the
and everie one of you. will aunswer at your
contrarie doinge you
extreme
perill.
"
To
geven
all
lovinge
at the
Newry
and singular
subjects
to
the 24th July, 1570.
hir majesties officers, mynesters,

whom in case it shal or may
appertayne, and to the Victaylors, and

and all others, being in Solde."
How
everie of them,
far this order served the interests of the husbandman,

it is, however,
likely that it added to
we cannot now determine;
his security, as soon after we find the corporation expressing a

desire to have their ancient lands laid off within known and
To further their wishes on this head, in autumn,

1594, two accredited persons were dispatched from hence to the
queen, requesting her majesty would order a survey of the lands
certain limits.
to be made, that they might be divided
amongst the inhabitants,
as had been promised during the government of Sir

1
Their request was immediately complied with
Sidney.
Henry
on the
2th October, same year, her majesty ordered the lord deputy to
have the lands surveyed, and soon after the following persons
nominated commissioners by the deputy for that purpose. Sir
1
Geoffery Fenton,
Sir
Edward Moore,
Charles Calthrop. esq.,
Folk Conway, John Dalway, esq.,

Those persons were
Gregory Norton, and Charles Egerton.
Sir
289
and sett oute by

bounds and limits
of the lands "auncientlie belonging to the corporacon of Carrigfergus."
By this inquisition the corporation was confirmed in
instructed "to view, survey, ly-mite, assigne,
Oathe, of one good and sufficient jurie," the
1
nearly all the lands within its present franchise, also a large
on its north that extended to Gleno, long since totally lost
to it.
On the west were also included the lands of Straid, and
tract
Little
Ballymena,
otherwise
Lisglass,
lately
declared
to
be
As
those lands were formerly within the

as the cause of their being declared without, was
without the franchises.

liberty, and
their occupiers
paying cess and tythe to the parishes of the
county of Antrim, we subjoin a short account how this originally

took place.
Being anciently commonable, and at the extremity
of the parish, the people of the county of Antrim who resided
near their mearing, encroached upon them by grazing their
About 1620, the lands of Little Ballymena were intruded
on by the tenants of William Penry. In 1630, a deed of those
cattle.
encroachments were granted by the corporation for ever, to his

son of the same name, at the yearly rent of ^2. In this deed is
"And it is artickled and agreed by the said

Penry, his heirs, executors, adminasterators, and assigns, and
tenants, of the premises, that they shall do Suitt and Service to
the Courts of this Towne, and corporation of Carrickfergus, and
within the County and Towne, and the county aforesaid, or
the following clause
W.
and all such Cuttings, Taxes, Savings, or other

County Charges, and Impositions, that any other shall pay for
such, or out of like quantity or proportion of Land, valued out
and rated." Some years after, those lands were relinquished by
The most likely cause was the
said Penry, or his heirs.
either of them,
rebellion of 1641-2, which caused such a general poverty here,

we find the few surviving tenants of the corpora-
that soon after
When
tion resigning their lands being unable to pay any rent.
some of those lands were again let, in 1652-3, at about 4d. per
that
acre, the deeds usually provide, that "if it should happen
the said lands are laid Waste by Insurrection or Invasion,'' the
said persons are "not to pay any thing out of the before demised
Be this as it may as to Little Ballymena, in 1698,
premises."
of the
its lands were granted to Charles Crymble, by the name
1
The exceptions are the ancient abbey of St. Francis, the ruined
the hospital of St. Bride, with a
abbey of Goodburn, or Woodburn
with free grazing for the horses of
portion of land belonging to each
;
the garrison.
2O
Inquisition.
290
encroached lands of Ballymena; and in 1708, this deed was
Charles
perfected to him for ever, at the annual rent of ^2.
Crymble, previous to his death in 1756, bequeathed this
property to his son of the same name, who, dying in 1775, left
it
to his grandson Charles, a minor, who, dying in 1797, without

issue, it went, agreeably to the will of his grandfather, to
male
who sold it in 1820.

The encroachments made on Straidland were
his cousin T. B. Adair, esq.,
similar; the
"
"
place frequently mention lands
usurped
from them by the tenants of John Dalway, who resided on their
borders.
In 1635, the Assembly, in order to preserve their
of
records
this
ground from the
like encroachments,
granted a lease of three
commonable lands (about 120 Irish acres), to

William Bashford, Ralph Kilman, and William Cathcart, the
persons who are said to have made the encroachments, by
the title of the encroached lands of Straid. At the expiration of
shares of the
the above lease, these lands were, in 1670, let to Henry Clements
Straid, by the former title, and, 1722, the deeds were
of
perfected to Francis Clements, of same place, and six score

acres adjoining were also granted to him same time both for
at the yearly
ever,
rent of six pounds,
By
English money.
marriage, Straidland, with that adjoining, became the property
of Walterhouse Crymble, and afterwards of his son Edward,

who dying in 1789, bequeathed them to his nephew, Henry C.
1
Ellis, esq.
[now Lord Downshire's].
The
the
oral history of the district says, that formerly,
public
sending his
when
were made and repaired by each farmer

quota of men and horses for a certain number of
roads
days, to work at the same, the holders of those lands residing

in the county of Antrim repaired the roads that ran through
them
and when
cess
came
to be levied in lieu
of labour,
it
was
claimed by the parish of Ballylinney, and continued to be

It is also added, that on the introduction of cess
paid to it.
to repair the roads, such as ran through those lands were for
first
some
years nearly impassable, till their landlord obtained

with the county of Antrim grand jury to get them
repaired by that county ; being refused in Carrickf ergus,
The holders of a few
through some electioneering enmity.
interest
farms profited by. this confusion,

either county.
1
and even yet pay no
cess to
29 I
Tythe of those lands was
in all likelihood claimed
by the
rectors of the parish of Ballynure, as they became arable, on

the ground that the people paid their cess to the county of
Antrim; they are still paid to that rector. A confusion somewhat similar appears on lands adjoining the North East
within the parish or " Tough of Brayde"

the mountains of Orland
island," which was formerly called
1
but the inhabitants
water," pays no rent to this corporation,
Division.
tract
pay both cess and tythe to this county, and have always, without
dispute, enjoyed the right of franchise.
Adjoining the same is
a townland called Crossmary,* 253 perches in length, by 207 in
breadth, held by the marquis of Donegall from Mariot Dalway,
esq. ; the inhabitants pay their tythe to the rector of CarrickThe parishes
fergus, and their cess to the parish of Kilroot.
have no other connection save in the tythe.
The boundaries, as established by the inquisition ordered

by Elizabeth, only continued in force till 1609, in which year an
inquisition was held by order of James I., and by it much lands
on the north and west, that had formerly been confirmed to the
2
Notwithcorporation, were excluded from its jurisdiction.
1
MSS.
In a deed to John Dalway, in 1608, of the lands of Ballynure, is

" And
the following notice respecting the boundaries of this county.
from thence directly between the said Tough of Ballynure, about half
a mile through the Playnes to the Three Stones called Slevjne-Trier ;
and from thence, about one quarter of a mile between the said
Cynnament and the lands of the Corporation of Craigfergus, aforesaid,
a
directly to the Long-stone called Carncain, and from thence about
quarter of a mile between the said Cynnament and the lands of the
Corporation, aforesaid, directly through the middle of a certain moor,
or bog, called Sheskenmaddy, and from thence about half another mile,
between the said Cynnament and the lands aforesaid, directly by the
middle of the head 'of a small river called the Nell River, and from
thence directly to a passage or Foard called Aughonaghavalley , and
from thence to the Long-stone, called Carne-bally-foanc, alias, Carnardthe FoulMidlgn." The Nell River is evidently that stream now "called
The Standingfoard; and the latter Long-stone, is that now called
Stone." In a rent roll of the Corporation of Carrickfergus, dated 1706,
of which
Crossmary is also called the Glen of Ballyhill, the tithes
were then held by this Corporation, who received in lieu the yearly
sum
of sixteen shillings, sterling.
at the present time

[*There are several landlords in Crossmary
Lord Shaftesbury, the representatives of the late Mr. George E. Kirk,
tenants pay tithe to Lord
D.L., and Mr. Edward Rowan Legg. The
Shaftesburv.]
2
In a' Latin copy of this Inquisition are the following exceptions,
A tenement,
not noticed in the English one given in the appendix.
Arthur
value ;s vearly belonging to John Ossop a tenement held by
of Wm. Peirs, annual value, 2s.
a
Bawn
6s.
value,
Starky yearly
near that, intended for a jail, no value mentioned.
a
of
:
piece
ground
292
standing, Straid and Little Ballymena continued still to be the
property of the corporation; and in 1637, we find the Assembly
Richard
to
off
three hundred acres near Gleno,
53,
Shugburgh, rector of this parish, at the yearly rent of
The following were the mearings of the lands granted to him.
"
Which three hundred acres are to begin upon the lands near
Ballywhyllyn. whereon the mill stands ; and so along the Vally
betwixt the highway, and the river of Glenowe. to and towards
a certain dwelling house wherein Donald Magee now inhabits,
and so along the said Vally called the Vally of Glenowe, and
letting
^n
adjoining to or being
upon the Land
called
Carrancale,
or
l
These lands are now the property of lord
Mulloghmorne."
Dungannon [now Baron Hill Trevor's].
Tradition states, that to prevent any encroachment on their
lands, it was formerly customary for the mayor, sheriffs, and
the different incorporated trades, to ride the franchises at least

once every seven years, but the custom has long ceased.
June
1722, the franchises were ridden by John Chaplin, deputy
8th,
mayor; the records furnish no

were again ridden by Henry
In July, 1740, they

This riding was
mayor.
particulars.
Gill,
agreeable to the boundaries established by queen

He rode from the foot of Copeland-water to Beltye.
to the Raven's-rock, and Gleno, alias Johnston' s-ford ; through
Raloo and the village of Straid; from thence in a direct line
strictly
Elizabeth.
to Bruselee- #*//, taking in Straidland, and that part of Little

2
Ballymena that pays rent to the corporation.
The
next riding was in 1768. by the late earl of Donegall.

also rode agreeably to the boundaries of Elizabeth,
mayor.
in
the
same line as ridden by Mr. Gill, touching the
exactly
water-wheel of Gleno corn-mill, and keeping about fifty perches
He
north of the
Standing-stone,
and putting
his
wand of
office
one of the windows of the mansion house of Straid. 3

The last riding was by Sir William Kirk, knt., mayor,
August ist, 1785. His differed much from those noticed, and
into
was neither
Elizabeth
franchise.
mentioned,
conformity to the boundaries established by

James I., yet still remains the acknowledged
For a more full account of the Inquisitions
and the riding of the franchises in 1785, see
in
nor
Appendix No. XX.

1
'
295
The annual
rent * paid
by the corporation to the crown for

and six pence, which sum is paid
Several lots of lands f within the
however, subject to the payment of quit rent. The
their lands, is seven shillings

at the custom house, Belfast.
county-, are,
marquis of Donegall pays yearly 135. 4d. quit rent for
St.
Hospital, with a hall or castle adjoining, as for the

heirs of lord Conway ; and also
2 77! for a lot of ground
Bride's
Lord Blaney pays is. 6d. quit

of ground near his majesty's castle, as
for the heirs of lord Conway; and the marquis of Downshire
called Birketf s-hall, or castle.

rent, annually, for
lot
pays a yearly quit rent of five shillings for 320 acres of land
1
in the North East Division.
We have not learned how those
grounds became subject to the above rents, though doubtless by
forfeiture to the crown, as by quit rent is meant the rent arising
In the Down
out of the forfeitures of the lands in 1641-2. 2
made
in
to
ascertain
the
survey,
1655,
quantity of lands
forfeited to the government by said rebellion,
are marked forfeited, adjoining the
county
stream
and 54
acres, 2 roods,
1 1 1
sea
and 32 perches,
acres in this
and
Silver-
at the foot
of
Copeland-water, a part of which lands were on the east or

all those grounds previously
Kilroot bank of said water
:
belonging to Richard Taaffe, junior,
had removed to Drogheda. 3

(formerly Taaffe's) pay quit
We
who before
the rebellion
do not leam that those lands
rent at present.
rent formerly paid to the crown for these lands was seven
six pence, which sum was paid at the Custom-house,
" Received from the
The following is a copy of the receipt :
town
of
sheriffs
and
of
the
Carrickfergus, by Sir
mayor,
burgesses
Wiiliam Kirk, Knight, the sum of seven shillings and six pence, for
one year's crown rent, due His Majesty the loth of October last, for
I say received the 26th April,
the fee farm of said town
1805.
[*
The
shillings
Belfast.
and
Rent, 75. 6d.

8d.
Fee,
8s.
2 d.
C. SALMON, Col."
record has been kept of the time when the corporation ceased paying
this money, and at the present time His Majesty receives no rent for
these lands.]
St. Bride's Hospital, said
[t Xo rent is now paid for these lands.
to be for the reception of lepers, stood on the east of the road leading
Birkett's Hall, or Castle, stood at the end of High Street,
to Gleno.
near the Court-house, and was taken down in 1775 in order to widen
Lord Shaftesbury is the present owner of
the street at this corner.
the
these lands, a Mrs. Stewart of the plot near the Castle, and
the other lands.]
present Marquis of Downshire
1
Book of Survey, Surveyor General's Office, Dublin.
Xo
Campbell's Strictures.
Down Survev. Records of Carrickfergus.
296
We now
return to the reign of Elizabeth, to show how the

proceeded in the distribution of their lands ;
concerning which we find the following entries in the records
of that time.
"
J
f J u ty> Mr. John Savadge, maior, Richard
595> 7 tn
corporation
Thomas & John Dier, sheriffs, yt was then ordered & agreed
by the consent of the hole Assemblie, that all suche persons
whiche shoulde hereafter be admitted to the Liberties &
Freedome of this corporacon before suche tyme as there weare
a devesian made unto the freemen of Suche Landes as by hir
Majesties Grant and letter appointinge So to be devided
amongst them bearinge date at Nonsuche the i5th October 1594,
That then they & everie of them So made free, if they Shall
clame or desire to have suche proportion of landes as other
freemen of ther like qualitie Should have allotted unto them,
that then they are to pay Suche Somes of mony as other the
freemen have alredie payd in their Sutts for obtainynge the
Same
as the
chardges thereof appearethe in Recorde."
The
names of the persons to whom what is called the first division

of lands was made, with the sum paid by each, to defray the
1
expences of the agents sent to London and Dublin, are as
follows
Whole Shares.
John Savadg
2.
Rycharde Thomas
John Dyer
\.
i.
William Lynsey
William Pyrce
William Dobbin
2.
Thomas Stephenson
2.
James Dobbin
Humpry Johnson
2.
Willm. Underwood
i.
Mychaell Savadg
John Dallwaye
2.
Thomas Wytter
i.
2.
Hugh M'Charne
i.
2,
Thomas M'Manus
Allice
Thomas Wyddow
Halfe Shares.
Robert Wylls & his wife
2.
2.
i.
Roberte Magye
John Longe
John Dishforde
Rycharde Dowdall
John Keppocke
i.
i.
i.
i.
i.
i.
i.
Though this was the first legal, or at least authorised division of

the lands, yet the grounds in or near the town appear to have been
divided, or at least taken possession of by the chief persons of the place,
prior to this time.
April, 1576, we find the following notice in our
Records : " Whosoever shall be made free of this Towne Shall
a
dinner
to the Sayd Towne, and yf he be entered as a
presentlie pay
hole Share to pay besides his dinner
Sterl.
yf he be entered halfe
Share 4osh. Sterl. yf he be entered quarter Share 2osh. Sterl. and
yf any such freeman so made be of greater wealthe, to pay over &
above at the discretion of the maier & Courte."
^4
297
Owen Magye
i.
Rycharde Newton
i.
Quarter Shares
Old Mr. Stephenson
Bryan O'Carr
s.
10.
10.
10.
Jenkyn Wynsloe
Owen O'Chushenan
Farrell Foxe
10.
Gildony O'Kelly
10.
John O'Hanan
Hughe O'Lynne
10.
10.
10.
George Savadg
Phillipp Kelly
Pheleme O'Havran
Tyrloe M'Laughlin
10.
10.
10.
&
Is-
abella Piers, his wife
10.
Roberte Stephenson
Robert Conlan
10.
John Savadg, Oge

William Bathe
10.
Duffe Wylles,
Isabella Sendall
Xy.
10.
10.
alias,
10.
July 6th, 1 60 1, lands were again allotted by the corporation to the

following persons, who paid the sums annexed to
their names
"
\Vhole Shares.
Willm. Ledall
2.
Capt. Gregorie Norton

Mr. Hill
Mr. Birte
2.
Mr. Hooper
i.
Newton
Sheriff
Sheriff
Fathe
Halfe Shares.
Henrie Spearpoint
Dudley Yearworthe
Mighell
Whyte
Rowland Mathews
Walter Hollman
2.
i.
i.
2.
Rychard Butler
Ralf Storie
Thomas Bashford
Willm. Storie
John Thomas
Nicholas Dobbin
Robert Lin don
i.
John Clarcke
Willm. Bathe
Deremed Haines
Willm. Prince
Thomas Gravet
i.
Morgan Woodes
i.
i.
i.
Som. Tot.
xos.
^29
10 o."
In 1603 another division of lands took place, which were

distributed as follows.
"
Number of Quarter Shares.

4.
Bryane O'Carr
William Bath
i.
2.
John Wills'
2.
Tho. Hibbot
4.
4.
Phillip Kelly
Gildony Kelly, and Eliza-
2.
Thomas
2.
Moyses Hill
John Thomas
Willm.
Tubman
Owen Magye
i.
4.
2.
2.
Richard Xewton
Gravott
of Quarter Shares.
2.
Wyddowe Vaughan
Wyddowe Prince
Thomas Stephenson
John Clarke
Walter Holman
Number
Murtagh Woods
Mr. Dalwaye
2.
2.
4.
2.
i.
beth Peirce
2.
Conlan
Captn. Norton
4.
Mr. Byrte
4.
John Savadg
George Savadg
4.
Wyddow
i.
i.
298
Number of Quarter
Edmond Hussy

2.
Rych. Conlan
i.
John Hannyn
2.
Henrie Ochforde
2.
Henrie Spearpoint
Shares.
i.
Mr. Hooper
Willm. Story
4.
2.
Ayles Story
Dudley Yearworth
2.
John M'Carne
2.
Willm. Lydall
Thomas Bashford
2.
2.
2.
Rowland Mathews
Dermott Haynes
Mychall Whyte
Thomas M'Manus
John Scully
Rych. Fath
2.
Rych. Butler
2.
2.
Wyddowe Kane
Willm. Long
Henrie Thomson
2.
i.
Mr, Dobbin
Nicholas Dobbin
Sendall
i.
Farrel Foxe
Robert Lyndon
2.
John Magye
i.
John Lugg
Rychd. Beaumont
Willm. Savidg
Mr. Johnson
2.
Thomas Wytter.
2.
2.
Sydney Russel
James Savadg
John Cappoch
2.
Wydowe
2.
2.
4.
"Lands granted by the Corporacene
2.
2.
2.
4.
2.
i.
2.
2.
in regard of Service
&
above their shares.

Partyes following, over
Mr. Johnson 60 achres ; to Mr. Lougg 40 achres ; to Mr.
done, to these
To
2.
Lyndon
Alice
achres.
60 achres.
Woodburn
More
Moyses Hill, in right of his wife

Captn. Roger Langford, on the west of
to
river in lieu of his
Soon
aforesaid 4 Shares."
porcone or Share of the lands

lands were also granted to
after,
Robert Elice, and others. 1

October 28th, 1606, it was agreed that the lands west of
Woodburn river, below the Knockogh, should be divided, for
which purpose they were laid out into ten lots, eight of which
contained four aldermen's whole shares, each ; the others three
like shares each.
The
in breadth, extending
great lots varied
from the sea
from 66
to 68 perches
to the base of the
Knockogh
Above the lands of the
ancient abbey of Woodburn, lay

the share of Capt. Langford, just noticed ; the first lot laid off
meared with them, the others inclining still more westward. 2
hill.

4.
Capt. R. Longford
Sr. Arthur Chichester
4.
"
Number
of Quarter Shares.
Clement Ford
2.
John Longg
?.
2og
X umber
Number
of Quarter Shares.
John Savadg
John ScullyGeorge Savadg
William Savadg
John Hannyne
Rowland Mathews
James Bradye
^ Bryan O'Carr
Henry Thomson
James Savadg
Wyddowe
Wm.
of Quarter Shares.
John Plunkett
Robert Elice
XJCaptn. Norton
1 James Byrte
4.
Sendall
Story
Thos. Cooper
Willm. Long
Robert Lyndon
Robert Magye
^John M'Carne
JlMr.
Dallwye
4-
J Rich. Newton
rt
T?;^K
2.
T?ofK
2.
The
Lo. Bishop
Thos. Hibbotts
2.
Jenkin Winslowe
Wyddowe Conlan
Humfry Johnson
4.
Thos. Walsh
John Clarke
J.
Magye, of the Gat,
I.
Patrick
2.
Long
Wyddowe Vaughan
Wyddowe Baymond
Jasper Happer
I.
I.
2.
2.
2.
Thos Gravott
2.
Phillip Kelly
2.
2.
Rich. O Kane
Patrick Flynne
Sydney Russel
2.
Walter Holman
Leonard Gale
Henry Ochford
John Hooper
Thos. Stephenson
Farrel Foxe
John Magye
Tubman
Edmond Hussey
Willm.
Thomas Wytter
I.
Gildony Kelly
I.
Moyses Hill
4-
Willm. Lyddall
Thos. Bashford
Richard Conlan
Henrie Spearpoint
Dudley Yeareworth
2.
2.
2.
2.
2.
2.
2.
Rych. Butler
John Wills
2.
2.
Dermot Haynes
Christopher Doran
extent
2.
Morgan Woods
Thomas M'Manus
Owen Magye
John Redworth
John Thomas
John Conlan
Margrett Dobbin
Nich. Dobbin
The
2.
2.
of
ground
here
called
an
alderman
or
burgess's whole, half, or quarter share, appears to have been

varied accordingly to the nature of the soil, and also at the
different times
of
its
being laid out.
the lands in the country,
On
the
a whole share was
division of
102 perches in
first
and 99 perches in breadth; and half and quarter shares

due proportion. These, however, were rarely, if ever, in an
entire lot, consisting of a number of detached portions of about
Afterwards we find a whole share of the
9 or 10 acres each.
length,
in
300
lands varying from 200 to 600 perches in length, and from 19^
No regular
39 perches in breadth, usually the latter.
to
the lands was then noticed ; that

North East Division, is merely called "the
lands between Glenarm highway and Copeland water ;'' the
Middle Division is said to be "the lands between Glenarm way
and the river of Woodburn;" and the West Division named
divisions or
now
entitled
distinctions of
the
West of Woodburn ;" at present, part of said

on the east bank of the river of Woodburn.
Within the town 84 feet fronting any of the streets, were
called an alderman's whole share; 42 feet half a share; and 21
feet a quarter share, to extend back so far as not to encroach on
lands
"the
Division
is
any share
laid out.
The deeds granted
as above are mostly for 61 years, and

when some whole shares were sold a few years after, they were
called 40 acres, and when near the town, they were sold at the
same number of pounds: the leases commonly begin with the
"
To all Good Christian people, greeting in
following preamble
our Lord God everlasting, know Ye that We the Maior,'' &:c.
In many of them is a clause that the lessees are not to mortgage
and that
or sell for more than 21 years, save to the mayor, &c.
they are to have free grazing on the commons and the number
Where the
of cattle to be thus grazed is mostly specified.
it
is
sub-division
now
division
or
are,
present
bye-roads
"
there is always to be left and reserved a
mentioned, that
:
highway for the use of all people who are Corporators,

and joining." There is also a clause to "entrench & enclose the
in
same lands at the discretion of the maior and burgesses
some of the deeds the breadth and width (5 feet broad by 4
deep,) of such enclosures are named, and the number of years
within which it is to be perfected, or in default, the persons are
to forfeit a certain sum of money annually, till the same is
"
by vertue of the
completed. These grants commonly end with
In 1607-8, lands were
Gift and Grant of Queen Elizabeth."
2
also granted to a number of persons on the like terms.
The grants here enumerated included the greater part of
Several
those lands then deemed capable of being made arable.
lots however were not accepted by the persons to whom they
were laid out, and soon after we find them granted to others.
About the same time many also sold their right to their share
sufficient
''
for mere trifles, especially in the West Division: the shares of

the following persons were bought
by Sir Arthur Chichester:
Thomas
Johnson,
John Hooper, Clement Ford, Humphrey

Thomas Welsh. Moses Hill, William Long, William
Richard Hampson, Widow Byrt, Michael White, the
Stevenson,
Taaffe,
lands laid off to the
in all to
769
new grant
'
land
Lord Bishop, and
acres, of
in his
several others, amounting

which Sir Arthur afterwards obtained a
own name
for ever, by the
name of
Lettice-
[Scoutbush and the adjoining lands].
Soon after, the corporation began to let off large lots of

what was then called the "commonable lands." To Sir Arthur
Chichester they granted from the Deer's-lane to the ford of
Bruselee; and April 12, 1607, the grounds of the great and
little Knockogh were let off to
John Savage, Clement Ford,
Walter Hillman, and Richard Conlin, for 61 years.
Soon
after,
the
three
first
persons
sold
their
shares
to
John
January 1653,
renewal of this lease in his own name, on the back of which was
written the following clause
"It is meant that as long as ther
Dwelleth any Inhabitants either at the Tongue, Duncrew, or
Carnrasy, and payeth rent unto the town and Corporation ;
That then and during the same time Notwithstanding any Wars
or Invasions the party within mentioned shall pay and discharge
the annual Rent, within expressed."
Conlin's share is yet held
Willoughby, and
Andrew Willoughby had a
in
by
his heirs.
1616.
Division,
Thomas Cooper was granted 150

now called the Nine score acres; and
acres,
in
West
1620, and
1635. the lands of Straid and Little Ballymena were let off as
already noticed. In April. 1636, the grounds of Ardboley, and
Bally lagan, were
first let off in lots of 40 acres, at 4d per acre;

April, 1652, their owners being all dead, they were
granted to Roger Lyndon, with three shares of 40 acres each,
near Loughmorne, that had formerly belonged to Christopher
and
in
Northward of
Forde, John Edgar, and Edward Johnston.
those lands, mearing with Magheramorne. were 250 acres of
commonable lands that had been let a short time before to
Mathew Johnson, Richard Spearpoint, Thomas O'Cahan, John

In 1685, these lands, being
Parks, and Thomas Whitager.
waste, were
let
to
John Dalway.
To Edmund Davys was
granted part of the lands of

were
leased about same time
which
80
acres
of
Seskinamaddy.
1652.
Records of Carrickfcrgus.
302
John Bullworthy; and in 1661, those of Slieve-true, called

358 acres, were granted to Roger Lyndon, at the yearly rent of
to
10.'
portion said to contain 1500 acres, consisting chiefly of

part of each division, was set apart for
mountainous
the
commonage of grazing and turbary
but for many years very

;
progress appears to have been made in agriculture; as
Sir William Petty, in 1655, states the county to contain only
little
2
165 acres, 2 roods, 32 perches, of profitable ground, by which
he probably meant that part deemed capable of being made
arable.
Though
the above
commons
are called
1500
acres,
much
numerous encroachments made upon them.
The
real contents
at this
time are believed to be
less,
their
from
right
of
grazing on those grounds is confined to resident freemen ; but

the turbary has been always cut promiscuously by persons
residing within the franchises.
By custom, a person occupying
a plot of this turbary for three years, it is considered to be his
property not occupying for three years forfeits such property.
:
September
26th,
1747,
it
was agreed
at
a meeting of the
corporation, that those lands should be let off, save 200 acres
reserved for turbary but on the 24th of the following October,
this
resolution was rescinded. 3
September pth, 1754, the
:
commonalty agreed that they should be mostly let

Macartney, Belfast, because he had supported
off to
William
their claim to
; but the mayor suddenly adjourned the court.

and thus defeated the intention of the freemen. 4
Indeed, from those grounds the mass of the body corporate
receives no advantage whatever.
Even those who live on their
elect the burgesses
mearings are
the landlords
than might be reasonably expected

property adjoining, setting their lands
less benefited
who have
high, in proportion as the tenants are likely to be benefited bycommonage. Besides, the grounds are always overstocked with
so much that many prefer paying for grazing elsewhere,

In some
rather than have their cattle stinted in their growth.
cattle,
places there is excellent grazing, with traces in many parts of

ditches and regular ridges, evidently capable of being again
brought under cultivation. Let us hope that the crooked policy
1
3
'
MSS.
Lambeth Library.
'Gill's
MSS.
33
of keeping lands
that they may be
in such a state
let off,
and
may
and
good of
speedily disappear:
their rents applied for the
the community.
August i8th, 1808, several plots of commonable grounds, by the different road sides, were let off to the
who held lands adjoining. Noah Dalway,

Marquis of Downshire, Henry C. Ellis, Sir William Kirk,
Misses Lyndons, Misses Shaw, James D. Wilson, and James
following persons
From the rents arising out of the entire lands, the

different officers of the corporation are paid their salaries, and
Addison.
the Assembly can apply the surplus to any public use that
Its exthey think fit, for the benefit of the corporation.
penditure has generally met the approbation of the public; but
when lands or tenements are out of lease, if the tenant is on

good terms with the Assembly, he is certain of a good bargain.
The lands* are said to amount to 9,500 Irish acres; and in
2
For a list of the tenants
1793, the valued rent was ,51 54of the corporation in 1674, 1731, and 1722, see Appendix, No.
XXI.
The
during
air
of this district
winter;
but
is
whether
at all times variable, especially
so
much
so
as
render
to
it
particularly distinguished from the adjoining maritime country,

we cannot determine, as no registry of the weather is kept.
Westerly winds are the highest and most general at all seasons,
and the coldest winds are invariably from the north-east.
Frosts are rarely of long duration, and snows seldom remain
long on that part near the shore, while the high lands often
continue for weeks to exhibit all the chilling features of winter.
ridge of high ground runs the entire length of the parish,
beginning on the east
at Duff's-hill,
and terminating nearly west
to time taken place on

resident burgesses and
freemen complaining loudly to the Assembly of" the like but though
In September, 1811, the like
redress was promised, none took place.
but
complaints were made, and a list made out of 106 encroachments
after a good deal of fudge, and an expence to the corporation of
business
one person was ejected in 1812, and the
of
1
these
Numerous encroachments have from time

Commons. June, 1777, \ve find the
upwards
ended
^100,
encroachments have
Several
been
made
since.
Records
of
Carrickfergus.
in a
[*The lands of the Commons were let in 1867, and brought
rental at that time of over ;6oo, on the security of which the
Commissioners obtained a Government loan to construct a new harbour.
For some particulars regarding these lands see pages 112, 114, also
New
Appendix.]
1
MSS.
34
by south with the Ree-hill. Near this extremity is Slieve-true,
summit of which rises to the height of about uoo feet above
the adjoining bay, and is the highest ground in the parish. The
view from this hill in a clear day is remarkably fine
in the
distance are seen part of the mountains of Argyle, Wigton, and
Ayr shires, the Isles of Arran and Mann, mountains of Mourne,
part of the town of Belfast and adjoining bay, and the fine
A large
shelving country from Castlereagh to Donaghadee.
tract of the county of Antrim is likewise seen ; Loughneagh,
the town of Antrim, and several mountains in the counties of
Derry and Tyrone.
A little south-east of the above hill, is another, detached
from the ridge, called Knockogh, anciently Knocksciagh, i.e.
the
the hill of the white thorn
growing beneath
its
a considerable quantity of that plant

is finely infracted, and here and
brow, which
This
there covered with natural shrubs.
hill rises
903
feet
above
the prospect from its top has been also much admired,
embracing a bird's-eye view of the bay and adjacent shores ;
the bay
and the ground near
its
base being pretty
as to resemble a bowling-green,
Beneath its south-east brow
Trooperland, from
is
level,
appears so
flat
a tract of ground called the
being formerly used as pasturage for the

It contains about 125 acres,
horses attached to the garrison.
its
and since dragoons ceased to be regularly quartered here, has

been always held by this corporation.
The following brief
notices respecting these grounds, are taken from the records of
this place.
3oth, 1728, the corporation were required by

to
fence, drain, and repair the roads to those lands,
government
which they refused, as it was without any precedent.
April,
October
11771, two troops of dragoons were ordered here to take

possession of them, but the Assembly refused to give them up.
May, 1772, a like demand was made by General Gisborne, but
the Assembly replied, that the lands were the property of the
corporation, and belonged to them by charter, and had only

been allowed by indulgence to the troops while quartered in this
The House of Commons ordered the charter of
garrison.
to
Carrickfergus
be
laid
before
them,
and
the
Assembly
instructed the recorder to take defence, the expense to be paid by

we learn no more of this business. Since
their treasurer
:
1793, the grounds have been subject to cess and tythe, as other
lands of the parish formerly, a field containing 3 acres and 34
:
305
perches, was held by the
called the Dean's meadow.
rector
instead of tythe;
it
is
still
The soil of this district possesses a considerable

diversity,
especially along the shore, in which tract is found brown ochre,
brick clay, potter's clay, pipe clay, or light blue
clay, and deep
blue clay
the latter is found beneath a submarine
peat-bog ;
strata of brick clay, and deep and light blue
clay, are also
found within the sea mark. In boring a few years ago to find
:
water for a
pump within the town, the workmen sunk to the

1
80
of
feet without finding sufficient water; the strata
depth
were alternately a stiff yellow clay, and gypsum, or alabaster.
In sinking a pump in the country, above a mile from the town,
on an elevated situation, at the depth of 50 feet, the strata were
same as just noticed ; nor has any boring been ever made SD
deep, in searching for coals in any part of the coast between
Lisburn and Glenarm, as to penetrate these strata of clay which
contain the gypsum ; so that we are as yet unacquainted with the
the
rock upon which they repose, by any direct observation, but

there are reasons to believe that graywache slate is the funda-
* is found near the

town, and
Pipe clay
a
considerable
formerly
quantity was exported to England, and
to a pottery at Rostrevor; 1 but it has long ceased to be an
mental
article
stratum.
of export.
the lands
As
extend from the shore northward, they

gradually become calcerous, resting on a white chalky limestone.
The chief exception is in the north-west part of the West
where the soil is argillaceous, or of a light moory

and generally incumbent on strata of trapp, or gravel.
Near the northern extremity of the other Divisions are also some
tracts reposing on a similar basis, several parts of which appear
Division,
nature,
to preclude all improvement.

The different kinds of
stone observed, are, ist, basalt,

2d, limestone of
green stone, and all the modifications of trapp
two kinds ; the fundamental stratum grey, and graduating into
:
the other white, and in reality indurated chalk,

Those flints are
with gun flints, grey, red, and black.
contained only in the whitish limestone; those observed in the
sandstone
filled
northern branch of
if
Woodburn
river,
are generally shivered, as
they had undergone some operation by
Hill,
fire.
[*This pipe clay was supposed to have been found at Windmill

now the property of Joseph M'Caughen, Esq., J.P.]
1
Harris's History of the County of
21
Down.
306
The
basalt * makes
appearance along the shore, the entire

is most visible opposite the West
Divison, and is generally lost in the sea beyond low water mark.
Greyish sandstone is also found in similar situations ; in some
places its grain is very compact, and it is then called freestone.
Sandstone nearly similar to the above, but rather of a bluish
colour, is also found in the banks of Woodburn river, especially
on the southern branch, about two English miles from the town
.
its
extent of the coast, but
it
In it are imbedded various marine shells,

of Carrickfergus.
some of which are utterly unknown to the writer amongst them
have been observed Ostrea Crista galli, Gryphaea in curva,
:
Corbula complanata, with some species of Terebratulae, hitherto

The sea urchin (Echinus
only found in a fossil state.
coronalis), called the horse elf-stone, is also found in the same
with
the Trochus,
place:
its
whorls turned contrary to those
found on our shore the I sis asteria, or star-stone, is likewise

found here.
Several species of Ammonites, vulgarly called
snake-stones, are likewise found imbedded in the same manner ;
and those tapering substances called Belemites. Several shells
of the pecten kind are found in a fossil state, and numerous
fragments of a shell that has been alleged to be the Pinna
marina.
Zeolite of a dead white colour is observed in many
the nodules vary from one fourth of an inch to nearly
places
an inch in thickness, and are rarely an ounce in weight. This
fossil is composed of argillaceous, siliceous, and calcareous
Its most remarkable
earths, with a large quantity of water.
property is, that it forms a gelatinous mixture in the course of a
few hours, with any of the mineral acids (most readily with
in the fire, it swells, and parts with its water of
spirit of nitre)
a
property from which it derives its name. It is
crystallization,
alleged to arise from the decomposition of volcanic products,
:
[* At the Irish Hill, Straid, which was formerly within the liberty,
valuable deposits of iron ore and bauxite (alum clay) were discovered
by the late George G. Blackwell, of Liverpool, and the late Alexander
Sutherland, of Carrickfergus and Larne. The alum clay occurs in the
form of seams lying between sheets of tertiary basalt in County
This deposit of bauxite is one of the most valuable in the
Antrim.
For
world, and contains upwards of 57 per cent of valuable alumina.
the past 30 years large quantities of bauxite have been exported to
Kngland, Scotland, and" the United Kingdom. Mr. Blackwell was one
of the first authorities on minerals in the United Kingdom, and it
\vas owing to his exertions that this valuable product was developed
and exported in such large quantities.
At Boneybefore, a number of years ago, Potter's clay or Fuller's
arth was raised and exported by Mr. Blackwell to Liverpool.]
<
in places
whose fires have been

long since extinguished ; it
abounds in Iceland, in the Isle of Bourbon, in the
irregular
basalt of the Giant's
Causeway, and in most districts of the
1
-county of Antrim.
The southern brow of the Great Knockogh exhibits in

several places irregular basalt.
This is most strikingly seen on
.the south-east
part, where the basalt forms the summit in the
manner of layers, the north-east end
like
massy wedges.
Beneath those
is
usually terminating
a stratum of that loose kind of
friable trapp rock, called
by geologists amygdaloid, intermixed

always with nodules, or thin layers of zeolite: steatite, and
sometimes calcareous spar.
Curved and waving lines of this
kind, run in the fissures of the rocks.
Under the amygdaloid is
again the basalt (but not in wedges), resting on limestone. The
base on which the white lime rests, is
always, as far as has been
observed, the grey lime formerly mentioned, and the sandstone.
In the most easterly brow of this hill, about 600 feet above the
level of our bay, is a stratum of soft,
greenish earth, supposed
to be a marine
soil,
in
which are found
petrified fossil shells,
such as already mentioned at Woodburn.
The green earth is

very peculiar; it was examined by the blow-pipe, with care, by
that admirable man, Smithson Tennant, late professor of
Chemistry at Cambridge, who conceived it to be identical with
the green earth of Verona.
He
did not determine what the
colouring principle of this earth or sand consisted of, but he

ascertained that it did not arise either from Iron or copper, as
had been previously imagined by superficial observers. The

stratum on which the white lime almost always rests, is called by
the quarry men Mulatto; the colour of which is found to depend
upon an intermixture of the green earth. A similar earth is also

observed on the northern branch of Woodburn river.
The ruin which is progressively taking place, even on the
Vast
rocks of our mountains, is strikingly visible at this hill.
heaps of the rocks that once formed its rugged pinnacles, have
yielded to the extremes of the seasons, and have formed minor
at
hills
its
base,
motion, to "cast
thus proving that nature is ever busily in

figures in another mould."
new
Trials were formerly
made
for coal * in several parts of the
Hamilton's Letters on the County of Antrim.

In August, 1852, the then Marquis of Downshire, anxious to
made trial borings in
-develop the mineral resources of the county,
At Duncruc, to the north-west of
-search of coal near Carrickfergus.
1
f*
and according to tradition, some were discovered ; but as

none were presented to public inspection, it is believed this
report was unfounded.
Limestone is found in many parts ; when burned, it iscommonly sold from is. id. to is. 4d. per barrel. In the
commonable grounds of the Middle and North East Divisions,
parish,
raised promiscuously by all those who are freemen.

Three kinds of gypsum, or alabaster, are found here, viz.
granular, fibrous, and laminated; they are found between high
and low water mark, along the whole extent of the coast. The
veins are irregular, varying generally from one fourth of an
inch to about one foot and a half in thickness
it is found in
indurated clay, which is regularly stratified, the strata dipping
That found in the bluish clay is of a whitish
south-west.
colour, that in the red clay of a reddish colour; the former is
most esteemed, and is sold at a higher price than the latter. The
1
*
gypsum is raised by all those who choose, and for at least nine
months of the year, gives employment to a considerable number
of persons ; it is mostly taken to Belfast and exported. Of late
2 to 125. per ton.
years the price has varied from
Opposite the ruins of an old barrack, Irish quarter, on
digging in the strand at low water, about thirty perches from
the shore, is found a stratum of peat, in which are found
imbedded the trunks and leaves of trees, and hazel nuts. The
trees are alder, sallow, and hazel, mostly the two last, and lie
north-east and south-west.
On most of these the common moss
or fog still adheres, among which is found the shell of the
it
is
common
snail.
Some of
this
timber
is
in a petrified state
the
petrifaction
very hard and white, and seems to begin at the
Those parts that still remain
centre, and branch into veins.
is
wood, are often perforated by the razor-fish, solen vagina. The

shells of the nuts are commonly entire, and unchanged.
Some
are transparent, and of a crystal or greenish colour, resembling
common window
glass
others are brownish,
found on the adjacent beach.

the to\vn, rock salt, not coal, was
In December, below the stratum
the borers came on a stratum of
[* The raising of gypsum or
many
The
like
petrifaction
the pebbles
of the nuts
struck at 600 feet from the surface.

upwards of 100 feet thick,
of salt,
coal.]
alabaster has been
discontinued
for
years.]
Several notices have been given by the mayor to cease raising

In 1821, the Assembly offered to let off
alabaster but without effect.
the alabaster of the district, but there were no proposals.
1
have been formed from the circumference to the

many that we have seen, the outside was almost
to
appears
centre, as, in
completely encrusted, while the inner was hollow.

Some notice
of these nuts has been printed in the transactions of the
Geological Society of London.
The stratum of peat in which those are found, is commonly

but a few inches from the surface, and varies from six inches to
Some of this
thirty in depth ; the stratum beneath is blue clay.
when dried and burned, emitted a
peat,
bluish flame,
and had a
disagreeable smell, resembling sulphur. Where the peat is firm

.and compact, nuts are found, but not
when the peat
petrified
is soft and broken, at least one half of the nuts found are
petrified, or partly so,
and many of them are
filled
with pure
.semi-transparent carbonate of lime, as if the kernals had been

Peat, timber, and nuts, are found on digging in
petrified.
several places of the opposite shore, from Hollywood to Bangor,

but neither in the least degree petrified:
the soil is not
calcareous.
The
peat, being found in such a situation, offers a wide

of speculation to the naturalist, and is the more curious, as
no peat is found near the town, save a small stratum that is
field
seen about a quarter of a mile from the shore, in the bed of

Woodburn river, above w^hich are at least five feet of gravelly
earih.
Some have alleged that the peat and trees were driven
down
by some great convulsion, and afterwards

This opinion appears
of this bay.
it
that
seems
more
the
sea, which has been
extravagant
likely
at
some
distant period
this
has
on
coast,
always encroaching
the
settled
Lagan
river
the
creeks
in
covered a peat bog at this place, the softness of which rendered

it more
easy to be washed away, and has now left the present
stratum.
This hypothesis receives support from the following fact.

east and west of the town the sea is from four to six feet
deep each tide, where, within memory, were houses and gardens ;
and opposite where the nuts are found, the encroachments of the
Several lots of ground,
*ea have been very considerable.
formerly let off by the corporation, have been carried away ; one
Both
of which extended near 200 yards from the present shore. A

little south-west of this town the sea is carrying away a piece of
ground, the substratum of which is composed of stones smoothed

the stones have the appearance of those seen in the
;
t>y friction
3io
bed of Woodburn river. Within our memory, roads,* and even
parts of fields beyond them, have been washed away by the sea r
and embankments and walls raised to protect others, which seem
destined ere long to share a similar fate.
The mineral waters of this parish, though not numerous,
afford considerable variety.
Adjoining the eastern part of the
town, in the bed of a small

water,
name
river, is
a well of purging nitrous
commonly called Miss Spaight's well, from a lady of that

having caused an arch to be erected over it for its-
preservation. This arch has fallen down, and the well is nearly
lost by the river flowing over it during floods.
During an
of
about
the
its
waters
were used
epidemic
dysentery
year 1741-2,
with success,
when made
into a posset with milk. 1
Dr. Rutty,
History of the Mineral Waters of Ireland, has distinguished this well with peculiar commendation, and given itsanalyzation in his work, from which it appears that calcareous
in
his
predominant salt, with which is combined "marine

some limestone, and a little sulphur." In the spring of
1786, when a violent flux prevailed here, it is also said to have
nitre is the
salt,
been useful to numbers. 2
On a rising ground, about one mile east of this spring, and"

about the same distance from the sea, in a stiff yellow clay soil r
is a, spring of salt water, said to be the only saline spring in
Ireland
the taste of
its
water
is
exactly that of a solution of
gallon of water from this spring yielded two

ounces and thirty-six grains of sediment ; so that it is nearly of
salt
water.
the
same
strength
as
Lymington
and
Harrowgate
waters.
[*A number of years ago a piece of low-lying ground at tlieentrance to the town, called Gallow's Green, was to be let this ground
was continually getting less by the action of the tide. Notices were
put up asking for proposals for the lands, on condition that they
Two proposals
should be enclosed by a battery for their protection.
;
were received, one by Lord Donegall, from the late Mr. Torrens and
The former
the other by the late Mr. Thomas Greer, Seapark.
proposal stated that Lord Donegall was the owner of the land adjoining
the roadway along the front of the sea near to the ground in question,
Mr. Greer
8 IDS., and to build a battery.
for which he offered
his offer was accepted, but,
8, and build a battery
proposed to pay
for reasons best known to himself, refused to build the proposed battery,,
This transaction resulted in a loss to the town
or to accept the lease.
;
James Logan, in Carrickfergus Advertiser.

lands are almost washed away, and a considerable amount
of county cess has been paid to protect the roadway in that place.]
1
Rutty on the Mineral Waters of Ireland.
1
Belfast News-Letter, 1786.
"
Ruttv on the Mineral Waters of Ireland.
of nearly
The
.200.
3"
About 80 years ago, an attempt was made to discover rock salt *
1
here, but the design was abandoned without a fair trial.
Near the west bank of Loughmourne is a spring of
sulphureous chalybeate water, once in great repute for curing
various diseases, great numbers having resorted to it during
summer, and tents being frequently pitched near it for entertainment.
is
However,
it
has long since
now a mere puddle, though
retain their
former
qualities.
It
to
was
good name, and

appearance its waters
lost its
all
first
brought into notice in
173I-
Riductd /n>m GrtmUli
The lough t
Colliia'i
"Crttt
liritai*',
Caaftif
or bay of Carrickfergus
Pilot," I
is
believed to be the
salt was discovered on the property of the then

[* In August, 1852,
made for coal. For
Marquis of Downshire when search was being
some particulars of the different mines, see New Appendix.]
MSS.
Gill's
In connection with the defences of Belfast Lough,

[t 1889.
of a fort,
at Kilroot Point, a site was laid off for the erection
of Duffern
a similar site of three acres was given by the late Marquis
when
side, and the forts
and Ava at Greypoint, on the County
constructed will completely command the entrance to Belfast Lough.
The defence of the Lough in this way has been talked of since t
i
Mav,
Down
312
1
Vinderius of Ptolemy, and is both safe and commodious.

Its
breadth at the entrance is about seven English miles,
reckoning
from Blackhead, county of Antrim, to Cross, or Light-house

one of the Copeland isles, 2 near Donaghadee; the depth
isle,
removal, about 1885, of the submarine mines which were connected with
Carrickfergus Castle. Three maxim guns will be placed at Kilroot and
three at Greypoint.
Since the above was noted, twenty years ago, no
further effort has been made to complete the defences of the Lough.
In the Castle Gardens Battery the guns are lying awaiting the time
when the government may think fit to complete the forts.
The tender of Messrs. Henry Laverty & Sons, Belfast, for the
building of a battery at Kilroot Point, Belfast Lough, for the defence
of the Lough, has been accepted by the War Department, October,
1909.]
[The illustration of the Government Survey of Carrickfergus Bay is

reduced from the one given in Captain Grenville Collin's " Coasting
Pilot."
He commanded His Majesty's yacht the " Mary."
The only other Government Survey of the Bay was made by
Captain Beechey, R.N., who had the honour of piloting the late
Queen Victoria to the Belfast Harbour, in 1849.]
1
Harris's History of the County of Down. Ware's Antiquities.
2
The Copeland isles are situated on the south side of this bay, and
take their name from an English family called Copeland, who settled
on the adjoining coast in the latter end of the i2th century. A townland opposite, in Down, is still called Ballycopeland.
These isles are
three in number, and known by the following names
Big isle, Cross,
or Lighthouse isle, and Maw, or Mew isle
the latter is named from
the number of sea-mews or gulls which resort upon it.
The islands
are considered to be in the parish of Bangor, county of Down
the
inhabitants worship at Donaghadee.
and
is
to
have
been
called
believed
Neddrum,
anciently
Big isle
contains about 220 acres of land, mostly arable, let at ^,1 10 per acre,
and is well watered the chief produce is corn, barley, potatoes, and
flax.
The barley is of an excellent quality, and this year ten tons
were exported. The soil is a stiff yellow clay, resting on graywache
Their chief fuel is peat
slate, mixed in some places with quartz.
Some kelp is made during summer.
brought from the Down shore.
On the west is a small bay called Chapel bay, from some vestiges of a
church being there here the inhabitants bury such dead bodies as are
In 1743,
cast on shore:
they bury their own dead on the mainland.
:
1811, eight dwelling houses and 51

In the last 21 years
inhabitants: at present they amount to near 100.
February i4th, 1810, Mary
only ii persons died, and 70 were born.
Strahan, an inhabitant, died on this isle, aged 105 years; she had spun
There is a schoolmaster on
flax till within a few days of her death.
this island who has 28 scholars, for each of which he receives 5d. per
this isle contained six families; in
week.
Cross, or Light-house isle, contains about 30 acres, and is rented
by the government for keeping a light-house upon it a great part of
In 1742, it contained one family, and in 1811, two
the land is arable.
Larks are often found dead here in
families, or fifteen inhabitants.
considerable numbers, being killed by flying at night against the LightThe dry measure in these islands is called the Hoggart, and
house.
;
contains ten bushels.
Mew
it
lies
formerly called Goose isle, is not inhabited
rocky, covered with a light stratum of earth. In September,
contained 16 head of thriving young horned cattle.
low, and
1811,
it
isle,
is
3*3
of the water between those places varies from 12 to 14 fathoms
the tide sets in from the north.
From the entrance it narrows
and grows shallow by degrees. Opposite the town of Carrick:
it is about five miles in breadth, and from six to seven

fathoms water in mid channel, narrowing pretty gradually to
the Long bridge, Belfast, which may be said to be its termina-
fergus
though the tide flows considerably above said bridge.

this bay is a ridge of black
rocks, called the Briggs, which run out about 400 yards; they
are always covered at high water ; at their northern extremity
On the north side of the bay, near the
is a large buoy.
entrance, about a mile off the shore, is a reef of rocks called in
some charts the North Briggs, but commonly the Clachans. At
a little distance they resemble an irregular hamlet they are
Their name is probably derived from the
covered each tide.
Between the Big
Erse, clachan, signifying the stone circle.
isle, one of the Copeland isles, and Donaghadee, is also a
tion,
Near the southern entrance of
dangerous rock called the Deputy, on which are about nine

feet water at low ebb.
About a mile south-west of Carrickfergus quay, is a sandbank,* nearly a mile in length, on which are about eight feet
water at ebb.
The Speedwell, a Scotch ship, was wrecked on
1
January i3th, 1789.
during the reign of king William III.
during a storm, the Savage sloop of war drifted upon it, and
it
to the abbey of Bangor, on the

of the abbey, they were granted,
to Sir James Hamilton, to hold by
Those islands anciently belonged
Down
coast.
On
November
the
dissolution
27th, 1612, by James I.,

castles of Dublin and Carrickfergus.
They became
60
afterwards the property of James Ross, Portavo, when they paid
fealty
from the
At present they belong to David Ker, esq., Portavo.

yearly rent.
Notes
Harris's History of the County of Down.
Lodge's Peerage.
taken by the Author on the spot, in 1811.*
[*For some further particulars regarding the Copeland Islands,
see
New
Appendix.]
is simply
[*In 1905, 60,000 tons of "Carrickfergus gravel," which
the trade name for the class of sand required for mixing with the
concrete and the other departments of work indispensable to track
for use in the Belfast Tramway
laying, were raised from this sandbank,
Works, the track being relaid, and the horses being replaced by
The powerful suction dredger Triton proceeded every tide,
electricity.
raised in two hours
day and" night, to the sand bank; 600 tons being
and a half. A jetty was erected at the North Twin Island, to which
of
the dredger was moored, and the sand pumped into an enclosed area
between four and five acres, which had been temporarily acquired by
i
the contractor.
Owing to the scarcity of water, there being only 3
fathoms at low tide, two journeys only were made in the flay, bringing
back 600 tons each time.]
1
Harris's Historv of the County of Down.
3H
received considerable damage; and in the winter of
1799, the
William, of Maryport, a coal brig, struck upon it, and was
lost
the crew were saved.
The above are the only vessels
known to have suffered materially upon it, though several others
have grounded.
All sea weed growing or cast on shore within this countyis the
property of the corporation, and was formerly let off by
the Assembly.
May, 1741, we find Willoughby Chaplin taking
a lease for seven years, of all wreck, or tangle, growing or cast
on shore within the franchise, at the yearly rent of ^3 5. In
the following year James Carr, cooper, Edengrenny, opposed
the right of the corporation, but they entered a suit against him,
and he
ws
defeated. 1
For many years
past, the corporation
have relinquished their claim, each person taking what

cast on shore opposite his property.
may be
About two miles and a half north of the town of Carricka lake of fresh water called Loughmorne,* literally
It covers about 60 Irish
Loughmor, i.e., the great lough.
fergus
is
acres of land; very little water runs into it, but a stream runs
out which turns a cotton mill in the driest season. The greatest
length is about an Irish mile, and, at a mean, near half a mile
broad
it
is
altitude
like
said to be the largest sheet of fresh water of the

in Ireland, being 566 feet above the level of
Its water is supposed to be formed by a

Carrickfergus bay.
large spring near its centre, as there is no appearance of any
This opinion is somewhat confirmed
rising near its margin.
from a place near the centre being seldom frozen during winter,
and said to be remarkably deep. The water is clear, and well
1
[*This lough is situated 596 feet above high sea level, and was
sold in 1881 to the Belfast Water Commissioners, an Act of Parliament
having been obtained by them. This stream formerly turned the mill
now known as Taylor's. When the Commissioners took over the lake
they proceeded to drain it, thus revealing the remains of five crannoges,
which were at that time investigated by the Belfast Naturalists' Field
During the
Club, and some implements of stone and iron found.
drought of the summer of 1901 the water was again lowered, and
Mr. G. E. Reilly, Woodburn, made further search amongst the cairns
of stone surrounding the wooden piles, which at one time supported
the ancient lake dwellings, with the result of finding some fine
specimens of bronze ornaments. Many other little things were found,
but the most interesting is the remains of a smelting-pot, made of a
was
composition of lime and bone ashes. The remains of a female elk
found some years ago, and the canoe now preserved in the Belfast
Museum. This is the second complete canoe

several fragments of others have been found.]
found at Loughmorne
stored with eels
and pike;
we know of no
other fish being in

about forty years ago, but
none were ever taken. During winter it is much frequented by
wild fowl; and though a fine sheet of water, its beauty is
Some carp were put
it.
nearly
lost,
as
its
into
it
shores are entirely destitute of planting.

this lough, there is the following
that it was once a large town, when one
Concerning the origin of

vulgar tradition
evening an old
being refused in
man came into it requesting a

"
many houses, he said, although
would be a lough ere morn" and
lodging; and
it was a town
an adjacent
were
soon
alarmed
people
by the ground sinking, and eels rising about their hearth stones,
when lo in an instant the town sunk, " and like the baseless
The tradition
fabric of a vision, left not a wreck behind."
adds, that since that event, the place has been called Lough-
then,
it
witness the coming event.
hill to
retired to
The
inorne.
About forty perches from the western bank of this lough,

a glen called Lignaca. literally, Luiggnaca, i.e., the misty
pool'; into which a small river falls, forming a fine cascade.
is
This stream, after running a few perches in the glen, enters

the ground amongst limestone, and is lost ; but it is said to
rise about a mile and a half south from where it is lost, at a
place called Sulla-tober. perhaps properly, Sallagh-tober, i.e.,
the Sallow well.
It is. however, evident, that if it is Lignaca
water that
rises here,
it
must receive an additional supply
in
progress, as the quantity issuing from Sulla-tober considerDuring winter,

ably exceeds that entering at the former place.
its
or in floods, the subterraneous funnel above Sulla-tober
unable to vent the water on
its
passage
thither,
and
it
is
often
then often
with great force through the crevices of the limestone

Several attempts have been made to ascertain
whether Lignaca * and Sulla-tober waters really communicated,
rises
thereabouts.
but without success.
On
Saturday, 22nd Juno, 1907, James M'CulIough, of James

Sons, Ltd., emptied into Lignaca 10 Ibs. of oil of peppermint,
to see if the water which came out at Sullatober was really the water
from Lignaca. Mr. G. Klliot, of Sullatober Bleach and Print Works
Co., Ltd., took samples of the water every two hours on Saturday
and Sunday, up to 8 o'clock p.m., and found no trace, but on Monday
morning, at 7 o'clock, he telephoned to Mr. Pirrie, Managing Director
of James Taylor & Sons, Ltd., to say that it had arrived, and could bo
traced all over the works.
Samples of the water were taken out of
the boiling well and submitted to Mr. Robert Barklie, Government
Analyst, and the result of the analysis was that the water undoubtedlycontained "oil of peppermint."]
[*
Taylor
&
The rivers and streams of this country are numerous, but

none of them of considerable magnitude:
they are, however,
of great importance to
society, most of them being rendered
useful instruments to assist
human industry, and made, as

were, to toil in the different manufactories of this place.
it
Woodburn,* alias Wud-burn, i.e., the mad river, 1 is the most

remarkable, both for its size and beauty; probably possessing
as much natural and delightful
stream in Ulster.
scenery as
any
It rises
from
several springs in the western

part of the county,
consists of two branches, the southern one of which was
and
formerly called the Tang, or Tongue river; the other

Altcnackle: these unite about a mile and a half from the
[*
These rivers and glens are now the property of the Belfast
extensive reservoirs were constructed in
in 1874 further extensions were made.
Water Commissioners. In 1865

the district of Woodburn, and
All the
waters of these streams are collected
in
large reservoirs,
the
number of million gallons which they contain are

Doris Land, 66
Lower Woodburn (South), 107
Middle Woodburn, 460
Upper
Woodburn, 367; North Woodburn, 81
Loughmourne, 444, and
:
Copeland, 133. The water from Carrickfergus to Belfast is conveyed

through a conduit of brickwork nine miles in length.
Under the Belfast Water Act, 1899, about 519 acres in the townland of Commons, 380 acres in the townland of Middle Division, and
998 acres in the townland of West Division have been acquired by
the Belfast City and District Water Commissioners.
These lands all
drain into the reservoirs from which the surrounding districts and a
Almost all
large part of the City of Belfast arc supplied with water.
the farmhouses and buildings have been levelled.
In the townland of
Commons 28 tenants were disposed of their farms, and the Aldoo
National School
was also acquired, the schoolmaster receiving
In the Middle Division 24 tenants were
compensation for his loss.
The names of the
disposed, and in the West Division 68 tenants.
landlords from whom the tenants held their lands were
Earl of
Shaftesbury, Marquis of Donegall,
Marquis of Downshire, Lord
Blaney, Baron Hill Trevor, Captain W. F. E. Massey, Urban Council
of Carrickfergus, Marriott Robert Dalway, Edward Rowan Legg,
Davys Duncan Wilson, George Edmonstone Kirk, Mrs. Susan O'Rorke,
and Austin Cornwall. Landlords and tenants in all cases have received
Since 1882 Carrickfergus has a free supply of 40,000
compensation.
gallons of water per day from the Belfast Water Commissioners.
The western glen, a romantic and picturesque gorge, is now easy
of access by the path which the Commissioners have made, and the
A number of years
bridge and step ladders which they have put up.
ago access could only be had to the cascades by wading up the stream,
bushes.
These falls,
in
the
sides
and
by
rocky
overhanging
closely shut
like many others in the country, are due to the step-like character of
the alternations of the harder and softer beds of the great basaltic
plateau, from whence these rocks have derived the designation of
"
" from
In many cases dykes penetrating the
trappe, a stair.
trap
softer beds have given their character to our local falls, and also
produced the sudden turns and windings to which the streams owe
:
their picturesqueness.]
1
Gill's
MSS.
The
scenery of both is truly charming, their banks being

places covered with a profusion of natural shrubbery,
and each have a fine cascade, with several lesser ones. That
town.
in
many
in the
falling
northern branch
is
down a ledge of
particularly picturesque; the stream

infracted rocks, whose summits are
clad with shrubs, entwined with the clambering ivy.

The sheet of water at either cascades is not very large,
and consequently does not send forth that stunning noise which
renders some rather disagreeable.

It is, to use the words of a
"
learned author,
a uniform murmur, such as composes the mind
to pensive meditation
"
and
stealing at last
of the quiet vale/' falls into the bay a

town.
In
its
course from the cascades
it
little
"
along the mazes
north-west of the
turns * two large cotton
two extensive cotton printfields with water, and

and flax mill at the town. Being a
mountain stream, after heavy rains or thaws it rises very
June 27th, 1747,
considerably, and runs with great rapidity.
a man called Andrew Craig was drowned crossing it at its
mills, supplies
also turns a flour, corn,
upper bridge, during a
flood.
August
5th,
1810,
it
rose so
suddenly, after a water-spout which fell on the Commons, that

it carried off
a number of cows which were grazing on its
banks.
None of the cattle were drowned, being all cast on
the holmes, or bottoms.
Orland water takes
its
rise
from Loughmorne, and taking
an easterly course, is soon after taken off, and turns a corn

and cotton mill. Scotch quarter.
Sulla-tober river takes its rise about one mile and a half
north of the town of Carrickfergus, from beneath limestone,
and keeping a southern course, supplies a cotton printfield with

water, and assisting to turn a cotton mill, empties itself into the
sea.
Scotch quarter.
Silver
and
stream,
The other streams are Copeland

Red river; none of these
the
water,
require
particular notice.
Black trout, white trout, parr, eels, and stickle-back, are

found in all of those streams; young salmon also ascend some
of them, particularly Woodburn. for the purpose of brooding
but from the havoc made on them in ascending, their numbers
:
all waters are the property of the Belfast Water

[* Not now
Commissioners, and the cotton mills and printfields have given place to
and spinning mills.]
print, bleach and dye works
;
3'S
now inconsiderable. The flounder is also sometimes tak^n

Woodburn river; and the dologhan is occasionally taken
during autumn, in the Red river.
The corporation are proprietors of the fishery of all the
are
in
rivers within their liberties,
Chaplin
which
in
1705 they
in the records is the following

"
let off
to
memorandum on
John
this
2th February, 1705, ordered, that John Chaplin,

burgess, have a deed from the town of the salmon fishery, from
Boneybefore to the Coneybery point, paying yearly sixpence,
1
subject.
and to Mr. Mayor, Recorder, Sheriffs, and Town-clerk, two

salmon each, yearly, and to every burgess one, when caught."
A piece of ground was also granted same time to him, for the
purpose of drying his
nets,
without any additional
cost.
Though the country is now without any planting that can

be called a wood, there still remain evident traces of its having
had
such, where it is believed no trees would grow at present.

In the peat bogs of the Commons and Ardboley, oak, fir,
sallow,
and hazel
On
of hazel nuts.
traces of
There
fire
are frequently dug up, with quantities

the trunks of the two former are often visible
trees
the heads of the trees usually
lie
south-west.
no tradition respecting the formation of those bogs,

or the timber found in them ; they have probably remained
is
there since the general deluge.

The natural wood and shrubs
observed
are,
oak.
hazel,
Crack Willow, (Salix fragilis;) Common Sallow. (Salix

eaprea;) Grey Willow, (Salix aquatica; ) Holly. (Ilex; ) Hawthorn, Blackthorn, Whin (Ulex Suropaeus;) Native whin, or
Furz; Common Heath, or Heather; Ling, (Erica citicrca; )
yrtilBuckey -briar, (Rosa arvensis;) Blaeberry, (Vacciniam
lum;) Blackberry, Dogberry, Raspberry, Honey-suckle, and
ash,
vy.
Viewed from the shore near the town, the country presents
an agreeable landscape, from the numerous enclosures, plantings,
The
gentlemen's seats, villages, hamlets, and farm houses.
principal seats are, Prospect, the seat of Henry C. Ellis, esq. ;
Thornfield. the seat of Peter Kirk, esq. ; Burleigh-hill, the seat
of the late George Burleigh, esq. ; St. Catherines, the seat of
William D. Burleigh, esq., and Oakfield, the seat of the Rev.

John Dobbs. Near the latter is Glynn Park, a highly improved
On the shore is Seathe property of James Craig, esq.

park, the beautiful seat of William Stewart, esq. ; and near
it on a rising ground, Scout-bush, the mansion of James Craig,
villa,
3'9
esq.
There are also several other places

highly improved, as
Woodville, or Boley-house, Farmhill, North-Lodge, &c. [1839].*

The villages and hamlets are all of modern date; of the
former are Edengrenny, or Eden;
Boneybefore, and ReillysIn 1821, Edengrenny contained
town, or Clipperstown.
34
Of hamlets, are Fairdwelling houses, and Boneybefore 23.

view, Woodburn, Torytown, and Gallows-row.
Until 1798,
Torytown was called the Wren's egg, from a large stone near
THE THREE SISTERS.
it; and Gallows-row received

of the former Gallows. t
its
name from being near
the site
Many
comfortable
tenants.
of the farm houses present an appearance

:
they
Where
are
all
kept
in
repair
truly-
by the occupying
the tenants are under indulgent landlords, the
[* Since the above period mentioned, many of the houses have

been sold, and are now occupied by different gentlemen. Thornfield is
the property of (. K. Kirk, Esq., D.L., J.P., a grandson of the late
Peter Kirk, Esq., M.P.
Other seats in the neighbourhood are
"Rhanbuoy," built in 1856, by Robert Bowman, Esq., then " Town
DunClerk, now the property of J. H. Lepper, Esq., B.A., B.L.
loskin," Milebush, built by the Rev. Hammond Dawson, who died
in 1874, leaving the property to his wife for life, and afterwards to
his niece, Mrs. Anna Medici Echlin, wife of John Godfrey Echlin, Esq.,
"of Ardquin, Portaferry, Co. Down, the present owner.
"Tôsganna
about 1876 the late William Higgin, son of the late Bishop Higgin,
He had been
of Derry, built the house at Kilroot named Rosganna.
in the flax spinning industry, and on retiring from that business he
Mr. Higgin died
and his son erected the Avoniol Distillery, Belfast.
" was built in
"Castle Rocklands
October iqth, 1901.
187*. by the
it is now the property of W. A. Woodside,
late Rev. James Warwick
"Orlands," Kilroot, was built by J. B. Lyons, father of
Esq., J.P.
:
320
houses are mostly neat, and in decent repair; where the reverse
is the case,
they are wretched hovels.
has been observed, that " the civilization of a country is

best known by the state of its public roads;"* In this particular,
It
considerable progress has lately been made.
New
bridges have
W. H. H. Lyons, Esq., sold to Archer's, who were printers and

paper merchants in Belfast. James Logan afterwards became proprietor
with the intention of converting it into a hydropathic establishment,
with brine and other baths.
In 1901 the Most Rev. Dr. Henry,
Roman Catholic Lord Bishop of Down and Connor, purchased Orlands,
with its grounds of 140 acres, and commenced building operations in
order to convert it into a convalescent home, and to extend the scheme
" Villa
over the grounds on the
System for the reception of Consumptives," who are now treated on the open-air principle known as the
Nordrach system. The " Barn," built by James Cowan, Esq., father
of the late Mrs. J. K. Riddell, the well-known novelist, who was born
"
"
there.
Bessfield,
formerly the home of the Bashfords, restored by
R. J. Porter, solicitor, and many others which have been built within
these seventy years.]
1
August 2gth, 1819, the old gallows, being no longer required, was
sold by public auction, and brought 53. lod. !
" Gallows Green " was at one time of considerable
extent,
[t The
and was formerly commonable land. At the present time it is being
washed away by the tide its memory is still cherished by the natives,
who derive considerable pleasure in pointing out to visitors that portion
"
" old
of the beach where the
gallows
stood.]
[* Before the passing of the Local Government (Ireland) Act the
maintenance of the roads and footpaths was under the control of the
Grand Jury, and the cost was met by a rate for cess ; but the cleansing
was undertaken by the Town Commissioners, and paid for out of
Previous to the acquisition of rating powers the
the Borough income.
amount of money available for cleansing was small. Such a state of
Under the Local Government Act the County
affairs has now passed.
Council are trustees of all roads, but, by arrangement, the maintenance
may be undertaken by Urban Councils in their own districts. In
addition, the County Council may declare certain roads "main roads,"
and in that case half of the cost of same for maintenance, sweeping,
Within the past seventy
watering, &c., is contributed by the county.
;
In 1852 the
years many changes and improvements have been made.
In 1855-6 the shore
turnpike at the Copeland water was removed.
road from Carrickfergus to Larne was constructed, Sir Charles Lanyon,
A number of years after the road starting at Prospect,
engineer.
was
running north to what is known as the new road, near Duncrue,
made. In 1887 the Monkstown road, between the Knockagh and County
first
In
the
1903
Mearing, and in the same year the Gobbins road.
were completed at a cost of
granolithic footpaths in North Street
Board
of Works,
the
from
of
loan
,1,200,
260; and in 1907 a further
was obtained to construct other new granolithic footpaths in the town
In 1900, .5,800 was obtained as a loan from the
and quarters.
Board of Works, and a new sewerage scheme completed.
P. E. Deane, the contractor for the
1903, September 18, Mr.
new granolithic pavement in North Street, found, while excavating
several lengths of old wooden
opposite the First Presbyterian Church,
The pipes
for conveying water to the town.
pipes, used at one time
They were bound with
were 'made of oak and very neatly bored.
were well fitted and filled with
wrought-iron bands, and the joints
puddle clay.]
3 2I
and others widened; footpaths made, hills lowered;

by the road sides filled up. The first footpaths
were made in 1809.
About 90 years ago there were only a
few wooden bridges, and persons here were granted lands to
keep them in repair few of the roads were then gravelled, and
those in many instances only about two yards wide.
Goods
were usually conveyed in sacks or bags on horse-back.
All houses and lands within this county are subject to
parish and county cess, which is applotted on a valuation of
been
built,
and
gullies
made in 1793. The inequality of those applotments has been for some years a matter of complaint, and,
about three years ago, persons were appointed at the quarter
sessions to make out a new key, or valuation of the properties ;
the properties
but this design was never carried into execution.

1739, the
70; in 1770, .118 3 2\;
county cess was somewhat less than
10 8;
,311
1818,
included.
the collector's
fees,
9d.
per pound,
not
Formerly there were two applotters of the county cess for

the town, and two for each division, appointed yearly by the
2
at present only two are [were]
quarter session grand jury:
appointed in like manner. The parish cess is [was] commonly
it the streets of
applotted by the church wardens, and from
the town and quarters are [were] repaired.
The assessed taxes of the parish for the year ending 5th
and for the year
January, 1818, amounted to ^1244 10 8,
In 1816, the value
Z6i
1821,
7
9^.
January,
5th
ending
of stamps sold in the stamp office in this town, amounted to
.71437;
.366
,241
13
in l8l 7> to
62 7 2 9
Amount of
4.
in 1819, to
revenue,
by
^485
tanyards,
>
in l821
in
'
1821,
Amount of
1822, ^461 13 9^.
the
at
distilled
distillery
of
revenue paid and quantity
spirits
.15,184
duty
here in the annexed years
gallons,
1819, 50,970
16 3; 1820, 5,059 gallons, duty .1,507 3 a|; 1821, 16,560
gallons, duty .4-933 I0
5
10.
By
licenses in
December Qth, the County of the Town of Carnckfergus.

in the Larne
which comprised the Carrickfergus Electoral Division
was valued bv the Guardians
Union, exclusive of the Commons,
laid
Guard.ans
the
18,676 7 s. 6d., on wh.ch
Valuator at the sum of
"*
to
TV*,778 3 s
a rate of lod. per pound, which amounted
was
31,72* i. .which
valuation of houses and lands in ,901^
Valuation of Urban District.
included the townland of Commons.
f* 1842
1909.
8,820 155.
Gill's
MSS.
Inhabited houses, 1,820; uninhabited, 258.]
322
The lands of
this county are all let by the Irish acre; the

granted by the Assembly have been generally for 99
years.
Formerly the leases granted by the different landholders
were for 61 years, or 41 years or three lives; and, as such
leases
leases expire,
the landholders are adopting the plan of short

for 21 years and one life, or 31 years and one
commonly
leases,
life.
many farms were wrought
Anciently
exists
still
worked
in
[existed] in
this way.
the
in rundale,
Middle Division, which
and one
is
[was]
As such leases expired, the landlords

in the new leases, which forbade this
a clause
This
practice.
prohibition served the cause of agriculture and
industry, and likewise prevented many petty quarrels that arose
out of this pernicious practice.
introduced
During the late war, land rapidly advanced in value: on

the fall of leases the rents were mostly doubled, and in some
instances trebled.
Its
farms for which
fines
value
is
now
retrograding fast, so that
were cheerfully paid on the renewal of

time deemed of little more than half the
the leases, are at this

value of the present rents.
Town
parks are not included in
^4
to
j per acre,
they are usually let from
and good ground for setting potatoes, is often let off by the
to .13 per acre
square perch (without manure) from
this statement
^8
[1839-]
The
though
Many
it
agriculture of this county is still generally imperfect,

1
has been much improved within the last twenty years.
tracts,
previously covered with rushes, whins, or heath,
have been reclaimed into arable land, or planted with ornamental

or forest trees, which now add not a little to the general
appearance of the country.
Farms of arable land commonly vary from 10 to 40
acres ; but in the mountainous tracts, where the inhabitants rear
young cattle, or take them in as grazers, the farms are often
much
larger.
In the
interior
of the parish, the fences are either made
In 1800, a farming society was formed, composed of the landed

gentlemen resident in the to%vn and neighbourhood, who offered rewards
for the best crops, cattle, and the like
its
meetings were soon
:
discontinued.*
[*In October, 1842, the County of the Town of Carrickfergus and
Kilroot Agricultural Society's first cattle show was held in Mr.
Burnett's distillery yard, now markets.
This show was held annually
until the formation of the North-East Agricultural Society in Belfast,
when the show was discontinued.]
323
with earth sods, or what
termed the dry stone wall or ditch;
is
pretty generally the former.
made up of
usually
earth,
Near the town, the inclosures are

faced at the base with stone, and
planted with white thorn ; their rear with ash, fir, or other trees.
The former fences in the vicinity of the town were the broad
bank of great breadth, overgrown with

whins and blackberry brambles, which took up the space of
from three to four common ridges of ground. These have been
mostly removed, and replaced by a narrower ditch and bank,
such as just described.
ditch, with high earthen
The
crops cultivated are wheat, barley, oats, flax, and

Of the first very little is sown, oats being the general
potatoes.
the kinds sown are Blantyre, Poland, and potato oats.

Angus-shire, and a kind called American oats, were sown by
some persons a few years ago, but they are now nearly laid
crop:
aside, being less productive
oats
are most
esteemed
than either of the former.

farmers sow
the
Potato
from fourteen to
fifteen pecks on the acre ; and from fourteen pecks eight bolls
have been produced, each boll containing ten bushels. In 1810.
a field of these oats sold by auction at ^25
per acre; and
the purchaser was said to have
had a
fair remuneration for his
trouble.
Blantyre
is
still
sown by many, and is rather on the incommonly eighteen pecks, or nine

is mostly sown in April, and the
crease: the quantity sown is

*
bushels per acre.
Barley
crops are generally productive.
Of
its
sown; that produced is esteemed for

and improves much on its yarn being boiled. It is,
flax very little is
quality,
however, alleged, that at least one half of that

the parish
is
brought from Belfast.
The
now used
within
uncertainty of the
crop from bad seed, and the difficulty of getting proper ground
for sowing it, have produced a great decline in the cultivation
of this most useful plant.
The potato crops are generally good; especially on the
heavy grounds near the town. In setting, that called the lazy-
bed t way is generally adhered to, very few being set in

by the plough for though the quantity produced by the
:
bolls
[*At the present time barley

are not used as measures
common
is
in
very rarely grown, and pecks or

the cwt. being the
the district
;
measure.]
[tThe
lazy-bed system of planting potatoes
on very retentive
soil.]
drills
latter
is
now
obsolete, except
3-'4
mode
is often most abundant, their

quality is usually indifferent,,
This has been
being soft, or hollow within ; perhaps both.
from improper management, the drills being

too deep, thus giving too much moisture to the root.
persons therefore prefer a mixed mode for potatoes,
made
said to arise
Many
viz.
ploughing and harrowing the ground previous to spreading the

manure. These are always set in ridges, and taking them on an
The
average, as to quantity and quality, are the best crop.
breadth of the ridges is usually about three to the perch,
including furrows.
The planting of potatoes begins about the end of March^
and continues till June; generally from the middle of April
till the same date in May ; and the raising time from about
We can makr
the 1 2th of October till the end of November.
no remarks on the kinds planted, nor their produce, they are sovarious, and called by so many names.
Change of seed from
to
and
from
to
light
light, is deemed useful.
heavy soil,
heavy
It has been observed that those kinds brought from Scotland
have been very productive.
* are
This
Turnips
rarely sown as winter food for cattle.
believed
to
be
retarded
the
is
much
practice
by
plunderings of
From
nightly depredators.
the
same cause
neither beans nor
peas are sown.
The-general rotation! of crops

the lazy-bed manner over the
after this process they
oats
:
two or three years
season after the oats.
There
ist,
potatoes planted in
;
3d, oats ; 4th,
the land to lie
or set potatoes on
In the former case it is often so
in a state
exhausted as for the
is.
dung 2d, oats

commonly permit
first
of
lea.
season to produce
little
it
the
much
but weeds.
however, occasional exceptions to the above; as when

sown with wheat or flax, or laid down for meadow.
are,
a part is
Prices of ploughing}; and harrowing, when performed near
in the interior of the parish,
2 per acre
the town, are about
:
where the land
is
light,
about half that sum.
Sea-wreck, or sea-weed, is much used as a manure by those

who live near the shore, and is esteemed a powerful
It is often spread on the grounds as
invigorator of the soil.
farmers
brought
from the sea
manure meadows
to
but
Turnips arc now very extensively grown.]

At present the usual rotation of crops is: ist,
and 4th, upland hay.]
3rd, oats
potatoes or turnips
or week.]
[t Ploughmen arc engaged by the day
the
most
f*
[t
oats;
2nd.
325
approved method
it
letting
to
is
mix
potatoes are set
way,
if
The
late
it
manure, and
Unless used in this
in layers with other
a heap to ferment and
lie in
upon
it,
rot.
the quality
is
very inferior.
Mr. John Campbell was the first person here who used
.sea-weed as a manure; he also first introduced the use of cow
in a like way, about 1740, prior to which time it was
usually carried to the sea mark to be washed away, or suffered
to remain in heaps on vacant ground.
dung
Lime *
is
is
spreading
likewise used as a
it
manure ; the most general way

in this manner from
over the lea in autumn
eight to fourteen score barrels per acre is the common quantity.

It is then deemed best to let it lie for two or three years after,
without breaking
up the
soil by either the spade or plough.

with other manure for setting potatoes on ;
in either case three or four good crops of oats are successively
Some however mix
it
taken.
Common
stables,
half.
higher.
manure, or that gathered from streets, roads, or

has advanced much in price of late years ; perhaps one
It
now sells from lod. to is. 3d. per load, and sometimes
Some is annually exported from our quay to the west
of Scotland, and north of England.

The plough! now in common use is that called the Scotch
plough, usually drawn by two horses, sometimes without any
-driver.
This plough was first introduced about twenty-two
Some, however, still work with what is called the
years ago.
Irish plough, a very clumsy implement, drawn by three or four
About sixty years ago this plough was
horses with one driver.
The
four
or six horses, with two drivers.
usually drawn by
2 10 to ^3.
usual price of the Scotch plough is from
That called the Scotch cart is in general use near the town.
was first introduced about the same period as the Scotch
In the country,
6 to ;io.
plough: the usual price is from
It
the
common wheel
their price is
from
car
^3
is
to
preferred, with iron axle-trees

^5. Ninety years ago there were
still
at the period mentioned, about 50

[* Lime is less used than
barrels per acre is generally applied.]
machines for the saving of
[+ Within the past seventy years many
The chilled or digging plough, drawn
labour have been introduced.
have a threshing
by two horses, is now used, and many farmers
also a reaper and
machine, which has taken the place of the flail
binder, a machine for churning, and now a machine for milking
At the
cows and a potato digger have been put on the market.
present time nearly every farmer has a spring vehicle.]
;
only two wheel cars within this parish, and neither chaise nor
gig ; the slide car, which has now nearly disappeared, being
the only vehicle of conveyance used in this way.
Much of the
farmers' carriage was performed by loads on horseback.
The meadows are mostly natural, and clothed with the
common
notice
among which
grasses,
Dr.
by
Richardson.
the fiorin, first brought into

Manuring with sea-weed is the
is
common mode used
for their improvement

it
is laid on in
September or October. Irrigation is also used by a few, and,
as far as has been observed, with complete success.
Some
hay-seeds are also sown; chiefly those called rye-grass, and
white hay-seed.
Clover-seed is likewise sown; but the quantity
:
The
is usually sown with grass-seed or flax.
preferred ; as, in pulling the flax, the ground is
loosened, which gives the clover more room to spring up.
Hay
and straw, when not sold in the rick by lump, is usually sold
is
very limited, and
latter
mode
is
by the truss :* twelve score of pounds weight of the former is

deemed a truss, and nine score of the latter. Straw is sometimes sold by the threave, that is, the straw of two shocks of
corn.
There is no planting of fruit trees that can be properly

an orchard.
There are, however, some gardens and
patches so planted ; and from their being pretty productive,
called
there
is little
doubt of ample success under proper management.
for planting and inclosures is becoming

within the last twenty years many thousands of
more
taste
common ;
young
have been planted in clumps and screens near the different

gentlemen's seats
they are rarely registered, as the planters
generally hold their lands from the corporation.
trees
The following rates of wages f have been paid in the

annexed years by the farmers.
Men Servants' wages per year, with diet, ^3 8 3
1755.
Mowing, per day, with
diet.
without
Cutting turf, with diet,

without diet,
diet,
009
004
o
[* The truss and the threave are rarelv spoken of in the district
hay, straw and flax at the present time are sold by the cwt.]
[t The wages paid by farmers to their men servants are no\v
20 to
25 per year, with diet.
Mowing, per day, with diet, 2/6;
without diet, 3/6. Setting or raising potatoes, with diet, 2/6; without
Women servants are paid 8 to 12 per year, with diet.J
diet, 3/-.
,-
32
Reaping, with
diet,
without
6^
o
Setting or raising potatoes, with diet,
without diet, ...
o
cow's grazing, same price as in 1811.
[1909, ^3.]
81 1.
Men Servants' wages, with diet, ^12 to
13
4"
6
8^
diet,
A
1
Women
Servants'
wages, with diet, 3 to

Mowing, per day, with diet,
without diet, (75. ;d. per acre) per
day,
Cutting turf, with diet, from is. id. to
without
Reaping, with
diet,
diet,
without
600
diet,
Setting or raising potatoes, with diet, i3d. to o

without diet, is. 8d. to o
cow's grazing from the 2oth
from
to the
May
2oth November,
4 to ;i2.
Men
1822.
[1909, ^10 to
20.]
Servants' wages, with diet,
Mowing, with
Reaping, with
to
3d. to o
25. id. to o
is.
per day,
diet,
without
diet,
diet,
o 10
Setting or raising potatoes, with diet, tod. to o
without
diet,
without
diet,
cow's grazing, same price as in 1811.
Of
the breed of horned cattle
such a mixture, that there
is
little can be said ; they are

seldom a trace to be observed of
stock.
However, some attention is beginning to
be evinced in this particular branch ; an Ayrshire bull and some
cows have been imported, the crossing of which will probably
improve the present breed. The price of milk cows now varies
any particular
from
4 to
12.
considerable
[1909,
^10
number of
to
20.]
cattle are reared
by those who
Much milk
tracts, or near the commons.
New milk sells at two
is also brought into town to be sold.
pence per quart, and butter-milk at three quarts for one penny ;
live
on the mountain
being just double the price they were thirty years ago.
In the town and suburbs is made a considerable quantity
of excellent cheese, often fully equal to the best imported from
England. In making it a number of persons receive the milk

of each other's cows, a week or so in rotation, during the season
328
for making cheese, from May till November ; the milk being
regularly measured, and an account kept of that delivered. The
number of persons in each join is commonly from eight to
cows probably from twelve to fourteen ; the joins

Each join has vats, tubs, pans, and the like
which
are
implements,
kept up at the expence of the whole.
twelve
from
their
five to seven.
The
cheese
is
commonly made
the milk of that day

coloured with anetta
:
is
steeped.
last
in the
Of
morning, soon after

years it has been
late
season the price varied from
five
A considerable quantity of
pence to seven pence per pound.
this cheese is sold in the owners' houses; but the greater part
is taken to Belfast.
A few now continue the making of cheese
about Christmas ; but it is very inferior in quality, easily
distinguished by a peculiar softness and cold taste, and is called
fog cheese. The quantity of cheese produced by each cow is
till
uncertain, as it depends on the quantity of milk she gives ; and

the persons connected are very reserved on this subject.
Howfrom
our
own
we
the
to
be
ever,
observation,
allege
quantity
about 3 cwt. each cow, which, at 6d. per pound, amounts to
^8
8.
Of
[At present no cheese is made in the district.]

horses nothing can be advanced
few high priced ones
:
are kept; and those bred are few, and neither remarkable for
size nor beauty.
The number of sheep kept here have diminished much within

the last forty years ; chiefly owing to the losses sustained by
Those that remain are mostly grazed on the commons,
thieving.
and have nothing in their appearance to denote superiority in
size,
fleece,
or
flesh.
[Sheep stealing
is
now
extinct.]
During the late war, great numbers of swine were kept,

most of which when killed, were sold in Belfast.
Many of
these were reared within the parish ; but the greater part were
bought from drovers, of that size called shots. Those reared at
present are comparatively few, and usually kept for home use
i 2
when sold, the usual price is about
per cwt. [55;- to 6o/-J
The wild animals found here are foxes, badgers, hares,
;
rabbits, hedge-hogs, weasels, martins,
Norway
or
common
rats,
mice, and common or fetid shrew.

Foxes and badgers are much rarer than formerly, being nearly
short
extinct.
[Foxes and badgers are now extinct.]
common house
mice,
field
time
foxes
were
both
At the
were numerous.
ago
there
otters
lent
and
assizes.
martins
1769.
and
was
329
1
The caterpillar
granted to Thomas Cryes, for killing foxes.
of the sphinx qtropos, vulgarly called the Connough-worm, is
here during the latter end of summer, or

is about three inches in length, of
seen
occasionally
it
beginning of autumn
a greenish colour, faintly
:
feet
and
with yellow,
striped
having many
always found amongst long grass on the margin of
is
Cows
brooks, or adhering to the branches of the wild sallow.
eating of the grass that it passes over, are believed to be affected
with that fatal distemper called the connough.
Having never
known
whether
the
truth
of
this
been
has
circumstance
demonstrated for actual observation, we are inclined to think

that the report
is
is
founded on ignorance, and that
this reptile
really innoxious.
Birds are numerous, and some of them rather rare in the

For a catalogue of such as have been
parishes.
adjoining
observed, either as natives or visitors, see Appendix, No. XXII.

In 1 68 1, an account was taken by order of government, of
the persons within this county fit to bear arms, between the ages
1 6 and 60
their numbers were 496, besides the aldermen,
of
burgesses, and the different officers of the corporation.

January,
1692, a similar return was made, when the numbers were 469,
exclusive of the above mentioned members of the corporation.
In the
last
return,
71
persons are noticed as being
Roman
the
quarter
Catholics. 2
By
return
of the different
constables
to
grand jury, in April, 1723, of all freemen fit to carry

between
16 and 60, their numbers were as follow. In the
arms,
town, 108; Irish quarter, 52; Scotch quarter, 96; North East
sessions
Division, 64;
Middle Division, 87; West Division, 106:
total,
543-*
In 1725, the number of dwelling-houses within
this parish
was 546. 4
1765.
following
This
parish
religious
dissenters, 2004,
contained
denominations
Roman
3052
:
viz.,
inhabitants,
of
protestants,
catholics, 209, methodists, 30.
In 1793, 408 persons were returned by an amended
3
3
MSS.
Dobbs on
'
MSS.
the
Tradr of Ireland.
the
809,
list.
33
between the age of 16 and 45, able and eligible to serve in the
militia.
February, 1800, the number of houses within the parish,

paying taxes, was 169; houses exempt, 724: total 893. Amount
of window tax, ^250 14 ij ; hearth tax, ^55 115; inhabitants,
4414; freemen, 900; persons

1
resident
who
could be freeholders,
04.*
April, 1810, 779 persons were returned by the constables,

between the age of 16 and 45, eligible to serve in the militia.
Neither yeomen nor sea fencibles, nor a few other sea-faring
people, were included.
1813, an account of the number of houses and

within this county, was taken by order of the
government; the table on page 331 is the substance of the
May,
inhabitants
made by Mr. Adam Cunningham and the author, who

were appointed by the Grand Jury, at Assize.
return
SCHOOLS
Nov.
1834,
Masters and Mistress
IN
1834.
33'
332
o
p;
n
H=
JM'ol
OOvO 4. -U
(Ji
Houses Building.
Houses Ruinous.
Houses Uninhabited.
No. of Houses, 4 Stories
.
K>
OOUJ
(si
K>
vl
OC
Ul
U>
M U)
"<
KJ
~ ~
ON O
ONU)
*.
(0
4^.
^4
ts)
3 Stories.
2 Stories.
Story.
4^.
Total Inhabitants.
^J
^4 OsU>
Males.
O4^^-OJ
MO
OOVO
"4^-4 ONU> Ul OO
-j vo ONNO rr. hi
"to W
vO vO
-f>.
^4 VO
O Ui
<-"
TJVmolec
reiiiiics.
Protestants.
Roman
Catholics.
Schools.
uncerON
tain.
uncer-
At School
Male.
At School
Female.
No. of Persons between 80 and 90

between 70 and
80.
between 60 and
JO.
years,
between 50 and 60.
between 40 and
Under
OO
K)
(O
ON
50.
I.
Twins.
Dumb.
Blind.
Linen Weavers
3 of
Woollen Weavers.
Diaper Weavers.
Cotton Weavers.
them Females.
333
Table continued.
M
^J
334
RELIGIOUS POPULATION,
DISTRICTS.
August
i2th,
1831.
535
Both the dwellings and clothing of the mass of the people

have been much improved within memory, especially the latter.
This improvement in dress has been in a great measure owing
to the introduction of cotton cloths, the cheapness of which is
particularly conspicuous amongst the females, and has enabled
the servant to appear on Sundays, fair days, &c., nearly as
"
"
unprofitably gay
The food of
as her mistress.
the working and lower classes consists chiefly
of potatoes, oatmeal, flour, milk, and occasionally butter, flesh,

and fish. Tea is much in use; and from the present cheapness
of food, we recollect no time when the working classes were
much real
exception we know
generally enabled to enjoy so

provisions.
The only
comfort, as to their
of cotton
of, is that
weavers, who, from the very reduced rate of their wages, suffer
This is clearly seen by the following instance
great privations.
of their prices: 174 yards of 10 hundred calico is now worked
[Cotton weaving is now extinct.]

In and near the town, the fuel used is mostly English coal,
which is commonly preferred to the Scotch during summer the
for 12 shillings
Peat sods, or tours, are

price varies from 175. to 205. per ton.
in
the
the only fuel of those who live
country when the former
are brought to town for sale, the usual price is from 25. to
:
2s. 6d.
per kish.
few years ago, the price was from
35. 4d.
to 45. 2d.
The inhabitants are not subject to any peculiar disease,

though bilious and nervous disorders are thought to be more
Many persons live to an advanced
prevalent than formerly.
age, as
may be
seen by the following
Jane Carnaghan,
died
near 100 years of age she got a

died
John Morrison,
John Logan,
...
list
IO
army
of
James
aged
II.
100.
IO 5...
949593939594-
...
i~9.
q 9-
...
i79<>,
9&94-
I79 1
James Addison,
-
when
aged 94.
,Ann King,
set of teeth.
1732,
I74 2
106
aged
new
been in Derry during the siege by the

died 1753,
Margaret Fitzpatfick,
...
Elizabeth Bell,
1763,
...
Catherine Wilson,
1779,
...
Samuel Davison,
1780,
...
i/ 86
James M'Gill,
...
Thomas Barry,
1/86,
J 7 8 7>
James Penny,
...
Andrew M'Dowall,
1788,
...
Widow M'Gowan,
1789.
...
William Semple,
1790,
Margaret Ouinn,
Richard M~Comb,
1715,
1792.
*l
hc
liafl
336
John M' Go wan,
Thomas Godfrey,
Mary Campbell,
Margaret Mellan,
Felix
Hannah,
William Lappin,
John Tennant,
John Connor,
Mary
M'Gill,
M'Gill,
Catherine
Hugh Hannah,
Jane Deavy,
James Millar,
Samuel Davison,
Sarah Millar,
Andrew M'Dowell,
Jane M'Quillan,
Margaret Jamfrey,
Jane Deavy,
Edward M'Quillin,
John Browne,
James Dorman,
Jane M'Cullough,
The
inhabitants
following
who have
Samuel M'Skimin,
Jane Birnie,
Thomas Herdman,
John Herdman,
Samuel Wilson,
Elizabeth Thompson,
John Boyd Gilmore,
Alice Legg,
Alexander Johns,
Thomas Gorman,
James Woodside,
James Campbell,
William Laverty,
John Allen,
Samuel Catherwood,
Joseph Hamilton,
John Robb,
John Laverty,
Thomas
Lalor,
James Stannus,
Mary Moore,
Mary Elizabeth Simm,
Isabella Cooper,
Hugh Catherwood,
William Catherwood,
William Porter,
William Larmour,
Jane Alexander,
John Mitchael,
James Kirk,
are
died
337
Cunwuy Richard Dobbs,

James Craig,
David Bell,
John Morrison,
Frances Gorman,
James Hagan,
Anne Legg,
Joseph Legg,
Jane Miskimmin,
Andrew Forsythe,
Elizabeth Weatherup,
James Simms,
Letitia M'.Master
Jane Carnaghan,
Ellen
Kirk,
James Miskimmin,
Marriot M'Kay,
Henry Laverty,
John Jack,
Jane Millar,
Agnes Boyd,
Robert Semple,
George M'Ferran,
Robert Hilditch,
Anthony M'Brinn,
Elizabeth Legg,
C. A.
W.
Stewart,
Richard Gorman,
Nancy Jack,
William John Thompson,
William Donald,
William M'GifTin,
Ann Penny,
Thomas
Girvin,
James Miscambell,
Sarah Vint,
David Pasley,
John M'Intosh,
Elizabeth
M'Gowan,
Johnstonc Bowman,
James Shannon,
Ellen
Millar,
William Henderson,
Margaret M'Alister,
Barry Martin Smyth,
Charles M'Brinn,
Jane Logan,
Sarah Gorman,
Elizabeth Jane Scott,
Agnes Davy,
William Porter,
John Gardner,
David Boyd,
Barry Gorman,
Elizabeth
Herdman,
-March,
1886,
338
kingdom do fewer breaches of
the public peace take place.
It
rare to find any person in the prison of this county for a

criminal offence, and only two capital convictions have taken
is
neither of the convicts
place since 1772:

the parish.
Between the
had resided long
in
members of the different sects the utmost

and no where in Ireland are religious
or political distinctions less known.
In 1798, and some years
when
ran
in
most places, very few
preceding,
parties
high
excesses were committed here, and those of a trivial kind.
There is no society * of a literary or scientific kind ; no
harmony always
prevails,
nor even a
library, book-club,
The only
social
companies
weekly
in the large
called
the
together,
Rock
and
common news-room
are,
a musical
society,
room of the market -house

Harriers,
who
in the parish.
sometimes
who meet
a sporting club
hunt and dine
company called the Coterie, who

and sup together in the county of Antrim
dancing
occasionally dance
court-house.
The only eminent person we have discovered to be a native

of this place, is Richard Tennison, who died bishop of Meath.
He is said to have been the son of Thomas Tennison, a
burgess of this corporation, who served the office of sheriff in
Here
1645, and resided in Cheston's lane, alias Butcher's row.
he received the
first
rudiments of grammar, and in 1659 he
entered Trinity College, Dublin, on leaving which he kept a

Soon after he took priest's
school for some time at Trim.
and was made rector and vicar of Laracor ; likewise

and vicar of Augher palace, both in the diocese of Meath.
He was afterwards appointed chaplain to the earl of Essex,
then lord lieutenant, and through his interest, in 1675, obtained
the livings of the deanery of Clogher, rectory of Louth, and
vicarage of St. Patrick's, Drogheda, and the vicarage of
Donoughmore, near Navan. February, 1681, he was promoted
to the sees of Killala and Achonry, and February, 1690, was
translated to the see of Clougher, and from thence to that of
About this time he was made a privy
Meath, in June, 1697.
died
and
Councillor;
August 24th, 1705. He is stated to have
orders,
rector
different clubs and societies mentioned at

In 1853 the first society, to be
extinct.
Literary and Scientific Society of the Union Hall
[*
are
"
The
now
the above period

formed was the
"
(see
There are numerous other reading and recreation rooms.

Antrim Stag Hounds Hunt Club is the only sporting club
page
137).
The East
at present.]
339
been an eminent preacher, and to have converted
many dissenters
to the established church. 1
The
inhabitants have at all times evinced a due share of
which has been always conspicuous when the

of the nation appeared to be concerned.
On those
occasions they have ever been amongst the foremost to declare
public
spirit,
interests
their approbation or disapprobation of the measure in

question;
and have invariably supported the popular side, as far as in
their power.
This disposition of the people was strikingly manifested on

the memorable volunteer arming in 1779; which arming originated here in the following manner.
Two volunteer companies
having been formed a short time before in Belfast, seventeen
of
persons
this
place
associated
deputation to Mariott
as
and sent a
him
to become
requesting
volunteers,
Dalway, esq.,
Mr. Dalway having cheerfully complied with
their request, their numbers were soon augmented to 72 men,
their
commander.
who proceeded
to elect the following gentlemen for their other
Stephen Rice, John Haddock, Thomas Legg, John

The uniform
Moore, William Craig, and James Craig, jun.
"was scarlet, faced with green, and all were clothed and
An elegant stand of colours
disciplined at their own expense.
was presented by James Craig, sen., and a plot of ground near
officers
Tiis
majesty's castle was given by H. C. Ellis, for a parade.

December 2ist, 1779, the Assembly granted ;i2o out of
the revenues of the corporation, in trust to Mariott Dalway, to

purchase sixty stand of arms for this company ; and on the ist
in
July, they also granted ^60
2
Same year, the
for a like purpose.
attended a volunteer review at Belfast.
of the following
Thomas Legg,
trust
to
company
At a full meeting of this corps on the i2th March, 1782, a

number of resolutions were entered into, expressive of their
of
approbation of the resolutions adopted by an assembly
at Dungannon, the i5th
of
volunteers
of
the
Ulster,
delegates
of the preceding month. 3
In November 1783, this county delegated two gentlemen of
Belfast as their representatives to the NATIONAL CONVENTION,
which met in Dublin; and at the Dungannon meeting in 1793,
1
'-

Ware's Bishops.
340
William Finlay, Esq., Carrickfergus, represented this place, and
was one of the committee of that body.
To the Roman
Catholic petition presented to his Majesty, January 2d, 1793*
were the names of Christopher Teeling, and Lawrence
M'Deimot, for Carrickfergus.

1784 June 22d, the following corps of volunteers were
reviewed on the Commons of Carrickfergus, by Marriot Dalway,.
Belfast
Esq.
ist
Company,
Belfast
Artillery,
Belfast
Dragoons, White-house Company r

Larne
Dunagore Independants,
Independants,
Holywood
Company, Carrickfergus Volunteers. Several of the corps had
Belfast
Volunteers,
Light
the preceding evening in Carrickfergus, and were

on the inhabitants, who vied with each other in their
arrived
billeted
attentions to them.
September
7th, this year, the Carrickfergus.
Company, consisting of 145 members, Straid

Company 35, and Dunagore Independant 60, met on the
English-man's mountain, and formed themselves into a battalion,
called the REFORM BATTALION, of which Marriot Dalway was
Volunteer
Henry C.
Bowman, Adjutant; and W. Cunningham,.
chosen Colonel, Charles Adair, Lieutenant -colonel

Ellis,
Major;
J.
Quarter-master.
at Belfast.
In July, 1785, this battalion attended a review
In the
NORTHERN STAR Newspaper, of January
i2th, 1793,
following notice regarding the CARRICKFERGUS
TRUE BLUES, " Extract of a letter from Carrickfergus,
The volunteers of this place, called the
January 8th, 1793.
we
find
the
True Blues, have
lately
been presented with two
field
pieces-
(four pounders) by Marriot Dalway, of Ballyhill, Esq., which

to
they are getting mounted on carriages, and enlisting men
This spirited corps arose from the ashes of the

Battalion, and do indeed inherit its principles; being
to carry their arms, and wear their uniform until
resolved
firmly
a complete reform in the representation of their country in
work them.
Reform
parliament be obtained: tithes and unmerited pensions totally

abolished the constitution restored to its primitive purity, and
entirely freed
in execution;
from
all
its present corruption in principle and abuse

which they hope to see effected without a
Upon these grounds, and for these purposes, they

are daily increasing in number, and find great advantage from
revolution.
Belfast Newt-Letter.
the novel but effectual method lately struck out for

raising
National Soldiers, by issuing proclamation against them." *
February, 1874, a violent contested election took place here
a burgess to serve in parliament, which produced much
-discord amongst the members of this volunteer
company. May
for
ist, a full meeting was held, at which three of their members

were expelled for improper conduct at the election. It was also
agreed, same time, that its officers should be elected annually
from that period.
The former ^ officers were immediately re-
chosen, with the exception of the
first lieutenant, whose place

few days after, the captain lieutenant
up.
other officers
resigned, as did the third lieutenant and adjutant
were immediately elected in their room.
filled
they
May
2 pth,
the officers
who had
resigned,
re-chosen, with 24 other persons, formed a
<Tarrickfergus Royalists, of
company immediately
and the
company
officer
not
called the
whom
19 members of the former

In order to give additional
joined.
the earl of
dignity to this corps, officers were not wanting
Donegall was chosen colonel ; C. R. Dobbs, lieutenant colonel ;
:
E. D. Wilson, major
and
Cobham,
Stephen Rice, captain
Thomas Legg,
Edward
Craig, lieutenants; adjutant,

James
William Hay ; ensign, Daniel Kirk. On the 25th July, they
attended worship in the dissenting meeting-house of this town,
after
which they repaired to
his
where each
majesty's castle,
member took the oath of allegiance. The clothing of the corps

was scarlet, faced with blue; their arms were furnished by the
earl of Donegall
candidate
and the hon. Joseph Hewit, the unsuccessful

presented them with two splendid stand
at the election,
of colours.!
This company amounted to upwards of 100 men, but did
not attend reviews as other volunteers at that time
they ceased
1
to assemble about I786.
some
Notwithstanding the secession of the officers, and
soon
was
the
members of the old company,
augmented to
corps
jo men. Thev attended reviews at Belfast, Xewtownards. and
r
*This was one of the articles for which the proprietors of the
Northern Star were afterwards prosecutor! by the Attorney-General.
"Annals of Ulster," by Samuel Miskimm, with
[+ Seo new edition
notes by E. J. M'Crum, 1906; \Vm. Mullan, James Cleeland, Belfast,
publishers.]
in the house of the major, b

part of their arms was lodged
the castle gate. January gth, 1703,
near
a
house
in
were
stand
kept
50
unknown.
<hey were carried off by some persons
1
342
Broughshane, and, with the Straid Volunteers, and DunagoreIndependents, formed what was called the Reform Battalion?
of which Mariott Dalway was colonel.
Their reviews and field days were commonly held on time*
which had been fortunate to the protestant interest. On those
occasions, orange lilies, or cockades of that colour, were usually
worn, as emblems of their attachment to the constitution of the
country.
August
ist,
1787, they. held a field day at Bellahill,
ai
which 84 members were present, who were splendidly entertained by their captain. At this time it was resolved that from
henceforth no meetings of the company should be held on daysthat could serve to keep alive religious or political distinctions.
1
This corps ceased to assemble about 1790.

At this time the public mind began to be agitated by the
passing events of the French revolution, which, presenting a
most fascinating appearance, were deemed highly worthy of
Under
imitation.
the
influence
of
this
reforming
spirit,,
volunteering again commenced in Ulster; and in 1792, a

volunteer corps was arrayed here, called the Carrickfergus True
Their clothing was blue, and they were armed and
Blues.
clothed at their
The
own
following
Brice, captain;
expence.
gentlemen
were chosen
officers
Edward
James Craig, captain lieutenant; John Chaplin r
Kirk, second lieutenant; Edward Brice,

year they attended a review at Belfast, and
another at Broughshane: their numbers never exceeded 48.
first
lieutenant;
jun., ensign.
Hugh
Same
In Octoljer a meeting of the company was held in the

absence of the captain, after which an inflammatory paper was
In one of these
circulated as the resolutions of said company.
resolutions it was declared, that they would not be dictated to
by "monarchs nor mobs, lords nor levellers" and that they
conceived, under God, the citizen soldiers of the country
its
best
defenders.
Soon after, another meeting was held, and the following is

a copy of the resolutions, as published in the Belfast NewsLetter
"
Carrickfergus True Blues.
"At a full meeting of

1
this
Company
in the
Market-house of this
343
town, on Thursday the ist of November, 1792, Captain Brice
in the chair
The
Resolutions of the
being read,
and third Dungannon Meeting

and respectively considered and debated,
first
Resolved, that we heartily concur in the sentiments therein

contained ; and do pledge ourselves firmly to our country, and to
each other, to carry the same into execution, in the fullest and
speediest manner in our power, consistent with the principles of
the constitution of this kingdom.
That we will also exert our utmost endeavour to procure a

ALL the grievances complained of in the resolutions of
the NORTHERN WHIG CLUB.
That we will also support the civil magistrate in the legal
redress of
execution
of his
office,
against
of
offenders
every
religious
persuasion.
That we
happy prospect of the speedy repeal

penal laws, and the FULL EMANCIPATION of our brethren,
the Roman Catholic subjects of this kingdom, and we shall
of
rejoice at the
all
further the same with our best powers and abilities.
Signed, by order of the company,
HUGH
KIRK, Secretary."
February, 1793, the lord lieutenant issued a proclamation

against the assembling of armed bodies, from which period
this
company ceased
to meet, in
common
with others throughout
the kingdom.
In the latter end of
1796, an invasion of the kingdom

being apprehended, a meeting of the inhabitants was called by
the mayor, at which meeting it was resolved to raise a troop of
yeomen cavalry. The following gentlemen were elected officers,

and approved of by the lord lieutenant
Henry C. Ellis,
:
captain; Francis Shaw, lieutenant; Alexander Gunning, cornet.

On the death of Mr. Shaw, Philip Fletcher was appointed
lieutenant, and on the resignation of Alexander Gunning, Barry
Martin, cornet.
This troop consisted of 60 members, and were armed,

March 27th, 1797, the
clothed and paid by the government.
200 out of the revenues of the corporation,
Assembly granted
to form a stock purse for this corps.
They were several times
be embodied in 1813.
to
ceased
and
on
duty,
permanent
placed
At the time of the cavalry being arrayed, an effort was also
344
made
to enrol a company of yeomen infantry ; but the United

System had become so popular, that the attempt proved abortive.
September, 1803, an infantry corps was formed, consisting
of 75 members; it ceased to be arrayed in 1815.

Same year, a
corps of sea fencibles, consisting of sea-faring persons, was
embodied, commanded by a naval captain; they continued to
meet once each week for some years.

All classes of the people may be truly said to be pretty
free from superstition, yet a few relics of it still exist, which are
fast
We
declining.
shall
briefly
notice
such
remnants
of
popular superstition as are occasionally observed, but rarely, if

ever, credited by any enlightened members of the community.
There
is still
but
craft;
commonly
witches
is,
for
a belief in charms,* and the power of witcheffects of its power we are
the marvellous
referred to a distant period. The received opinion of

that they are old wrinkled hags, who sold themselves
to the devil to obtain a part of his occult art. such as the
power
of taking the milk or butter from their neighbour's cows, or

If we credit the same
riding through the air on a broomstick
!
Satan was formerly more openly familiar with the

here
than he is at present, appearing frequently in
people
various shapes.
However dark the night, (and according to the
accounts,
it was
mostly in dark nights that he appeared) we
are informed the persons were always able to discover his cloven
foot, on the detection of which he was sure to vanish in his
best accounts,
favourite element,
fire
belief yet prevails of the existence of fairies, and their

non-appearance at present is alleged to arise from the general
circulation
of the scriptures.
Fairies
are
described
as
little
who were always clad in green, and who inhabited the

Numerous stories are related of
mounds
called forths.
green
spirits
being seen at those places, "dancing ringlets to the circling

The large hawwind," to the music of the common bagpipe.
thorns growing singly in fields, are deemed sacred to fairies, and
their
are hence called gentle thorns.

Some fields east of this town
"
were formerly called The Fairy fields." Fairies are sometimes
said to have kept up good neighbourhood with human beings.
but are described as being very vindictive when offended. They
were also believed to have been
women when
[*
lying in childbed,
These superstitions have
all
much given to carrying off

for the purpose of suckling
died out.]
345
their
children are also said to have been often taken
young ;
away, prior to
their being christened, the elves

leaving some
grinning imp in their place, which continued crying till it either
died or vanished in a flame up the
chimney!
Though such
relations are now, commonly, confined to ancient

dames, yet
the former lucky preservatives are still
occasionally used as a
cautionary measure, viz. placing a bible beneath the head of
the mother while she remains in bed, or under that of the child
while unchristened.
The husband's small clothes are also
sometimes laid over her feet for a similar wise purpose.
In
Thuringia they hang the father's breeches against the wall to

keep off fairies from the infants. A few other vestiges of
superstition regarding fairies still remain; if an article is
mislaid, it is said the fairies have got it ; if milk is spilled, that
something had a dry heart for
Brownies,
now
the same family.
it.
alleged to be extinct, were another class of

They are described as large rough, hairy
sprites, who lay about the fires after the people went to bed ;
hence, perhaps, the adage, "as lazy as a brownie."
warning spirit, in the likeness of an old woman, called
Ouna, or the Banshee,

wailing, shortly
certain families.
is
said to have been
anciently heard
before the death of any person belonging to

At present this spirit is almost forgotten. The
place where she was alleged to be heard wailing, was ever

amongst woods or plantings, the time night hence, might not
the noise heard have been that of an owl, or the whistling of
the wind amongst the trees?
Formerly, a spirit was said to have his abode in this castle,
called Button-cap, from his wearing a cap with a large button
in front.
He was said to appear on the cannon before any
commotion from his not appearing of late years, his very name
:
sinking fast into oblivion.

Wraiths are still talked of as being seen. These are described as the shadowy likeness of a person, appearing a short
is
Other warnings, or
appearances, are also believed to exist as death-warnings, such
as strange noises, the shadowy likeness of a waving napkin, &c.
It is believed that the luck of a cow, or any other animal,
time before the decease of the real person.
can be taken away by a look or glance of the eye of certain

people, some of whom are said to be unconscious of their eye
"
having this effect. It is called the blink of an evil eye," and
346
the
charm
When
is
believed to extend in
some instances
to children.
this is alleged to occur, the persons are said to
be
''over-
and it is supposed that the person will not

recover, unless some charm is used to counteract its effects.
There is an opinion that certain people are able to take
milk from a cow without touching her, or the butter from the
looked, or overseen,"
When churning, or making

milk, letting the milk remain.
cheese, fire is never suffered to be taken out of a house during
that
The
common
operation.
calving,
it
is
first
time that
cow
is
milked after
to put a piece of silver in the
bottom of
the pail, and to milk upon it.

Salt is in daily use with some in
a similar way, to prevent witchcraft.
Horse shoes are nailed
on the bottom of the churn for a like purpose; and old nails
from horse shoes are sometimes driven in churn staffs. Some
hang a flint stone with a hole in it above their byre doors, or at

the heads of the cows, to keep off the witches ; elf-stones, that is,
the heads of the arrows of the ancient Celts, are used in a like
manner, and
made
tree,
if
cows are
ill,
and deemed
to be elf-shot, they are
Rowan
to drink off them, the stones being tied in a cloth.
(mountain ash), and the herb vervain, are alleged to be
preventatives against witchcraft.

Certain days are deemed unlucky
few persons will remove

from or to a house or service on Saturday, or the day of the
week on which Christmas was held that year. On new year's
day, and May day, fire is rarely permitted to be taken out of
Persons going on a
houses, lest they should lose their luck.
thrown after them,
shoe
a
man's
old
have
sometimes
journey
that they may come speed in the object of their pursuit.
Crickets coming to a house are believed to bode some
change in that family, but are commonly deemed a good omen.
A stray dog or cat coming and remaining in a house, is deemed
a token of good fortune.
Cradles are never taken
empty from one house to another

and some women deem it unlucky to wean a child in May.
Mothers, when givingr a child 'the breast for the last time, put art
door with a
egg in its hand, sitting on the threshold of the outer
The
this is usually done on Sunday.
leg on each side:
tobelieved
is
seventh son of a family, if no female intervene,
;
have the power of curing the evil.

To crack or break a looking-glass is deemed very unlucky.
Mirrors were formerly used by magicians in their divinations,.
347
hence probably this belief.
believed to forebode death.
The howling of
a dog at night
The people who
follow the fishing business retain a

of superstitions, but are not communicative to
others on this head the following have been observed.
Meeting
different
class
persons in the morning, especially women when bareTo

footed, is deemed an omen of ill fortune for that day.
name a dog. cat, rat, or pig, while baiting their hooks, is
certain
surmised to forebode
spit
first
on the
fish
first
taken
and
ill
last
off the
luck in that day's fishing. They always,

hook they bait, and in the mouth of the
hook or
line.
Previous to casting their
dip them three times, and each time the person

dipping gives a kind of a chirp with his lips resembling a young
bird.
The wood of the hawthorn is never used in their boats,
lines or nets they
being deemed unlucky.

Of the ancient customs * of the inhabitants few can
now be
traced, being either lost by the change of settlers, and internal

However we shall
commotions, or eradicated by civilization.
proceed to notice all customs that we have been able to discover,

by record or tradition, as well as such as are observed at
either
The following extract from our records shows the

"
October,
archetype of a custom that continued for many years.
all
manner
of
that
the
hole
and
ordered
Court,
1574.
agreede by
present.
Skoldes which Shal be openly detected of Skolding or evil!

wordes in manner of Skolding, & for the same shal be condemned before Mr. Maior & his brethren, Shal be drawne at the
Sterne of a boate in the water from the ende of the Peare
rounde abought the Queenes majesties Castell in manner of
ducking, and after when a Cage shal be made the Party so
shal be therein punished at the discretion
appears that a cage was got soon after, and
condemned for a Skold

of the maior."
It
manner noticed; and that regular

scolds, and their names laid before the
The cage, or ducking stool, stood on the quay ; in
delinquents punished in the

lists
were kept of
all
grand juries.
a deed granted to John Davy's, July 6th, 1671, is the following
"
One small plot of land or house stead, situated
notice of it.
the north-east, adjoining to the Ducking-stool,
on
the
upon
Key.
on said Key. now standing.
'
was another custom
was
[* Riding the franchise or "fringes"

to prevent any encroachments on the lands.
The
last riding
by Sir William Kirk, Knt., August ist, 1785.]

1
of Castle Worraigh.
[The pillory and stocks stood in front
this
was
then
Peace and war were formerly proclaimed here with great

pageantry; the following was the order of the procession,
November 5th, 1739, Henry Gill, mayor. " The mayor called an
assembly of the aldermen and Burgesses, as also caused the
Trades to be warned, and when the aldermen Burgesses &c.
were assembled, the mayor attended by the Recorder, Sheriffs,

Aldermen, Burgesses, &c. all on horseback, in their Formalities,
proceeded to the Castle gate, and there caused the Proclamation
to be read by the Town Clerk, after the proclamation was read
the mayor drew
company drawing
his
his
Sword, of honour, each gentleman in

Sword, until this time the mayor merely
Rod
of Mayorality.
went to the Tholsell, north Gate and west
Gate, where the proclamation was Read, after each Reading the
People who attended in great multitudes gave three Huzzas;
carried the
"
After
Avhen the
this they
Ceremony was over the mayor invited the Gentlemen

on the occasion to his House, where many Loyall
that attended
Healths were Drank, Particularly Success to his majesties armes

by sea and land, at which time the great Guns at the Castle
were Fired."
similar procession took place
May 28th, 1756,

When peace was
against the French.
a procession also took place, but the mayor and
on war being declared
proclaimed,
other members of the cavalcade had their
These customs have been
laid aside
many
1
swords sheathed.
years.
kind of punishment was formerly
inflicted occasionally,
called Riding the S/ang, meaning riding upon a sting, that is,
receiving chastisement for some offence of which the common
law did not take any cognizance.
On
those occasions some low
who
represented the delinquent, was mounted on a long

pole carried on men's shoulders, and in this way he was taken
about the streets, the liearers occasionally halting, and he making
fellow,
loud proclamation of the person's real or alleged offence, the

crowd huzzaing. They afterwards repaired to the residence of
the offender, where a grand proclamation was made of his crime.
or misdemeanor; after which the company dispersed, giving
three hearty cheers.
Near the town is a fine spring of water called Bridewell, or
St.
Bride's well.
Formerly, persons visiting
prison, at the north-cast end of High

William Gorman, Esq., J.P., stand on this
the
'Gill's
2
Gill's
MSS.
MSS.
street.
site.]
this
well
hung
The premises
a
of
349
small rag on a thorn near
it, and dropt a common

piri'into the
These were originally the
offerings made by superstition,
as worshipping at wells and fountains
continued till the reforantion.
The custom appears to be of eastern
Mr.
well.
origin.
in his
Travels in Persia, vol. I.

page 177, informs us
that in that
country he saw rags tied to a tree near a
"
well, as
Charms, which passengers coming from Ghilan, a
province remarkable for Agues, had left there., in the fond
expectation of leaving their disease on the same
Hanway,
'
spot."
Women of the
whom they dislike,
lower class,
they chance to meet a person

spit hastily on the ground.
There appears
just cause for supposing this also an eastern custom.
Dr.
Clark, in his Travels in Turkey, says, " The malediction of the
if
Turks, as of other Oriental nations, is

frequently expressed in
no other way than by slitting on the ground.
Although the people are generally protestants, yet if a
person is suddenly deranged, or a child overseen, the lower
orders rarely apply to their own minister for relief, but to some
Roman Catholic priest, and receive from him what is termed a
This book, or paper, is sowed in the clothes of

worn as an amulet about the neck; if
lost, a second book is never given to the same person.
It has
also been observed that if a protestant of
any denomination,
male or female, is married to a Roman Catholic, the protestant,
priest's book.
the afflicted person, or
three
out of four, becomes a Roman Catholic, and

a zealous one. The Roman Catholic very seldom
times
generally
becomes a protestant.
There are no remarkable customs observed at marriages cr
christenings, but of late small arms are sometimes fired at night,
near the residence of the new married couple.
In the town, a
married woman is always called by the surname of her husband ;
but in the Scotch quarter, and the interior of the parish, she
[At present her husband's
usually retains her maiden surname.
surname.]
On
the death of a person, the nearest neighbours cease

Within the house where the
the corpse is interred.
deceased is, the dishes, and all other kitchen utensils, are
removed from the shelves, or dressers; looking glasses aie
working
till
covered or taken down, clocks are stopped, and their dial-plates

Brand's Popular Antiquities.
35
deemed very infectious, the corpse is

Except
This sitting with
always kept one night, and sometimes two.
covered.
in cases
the corpse
is called the Wake, from Like-wake,

(Scottish), the
meeting of the friends of the deceased before the funeral.
Those meetings are generally conducted with great decorum ;
portions of the scriptures are read, and frequently a prayer is
pronounced, and a psalm given out fitting for the solemn occasion.
Pipes and tobacco are always laid out on a table, and spirits or
other refreshments are distributed during the night.
If a dog
or cat passes over the dead body, it is immediately killed, as it
believed that the first person it would pass over afterwar 3s,
would take the falling sickness. A plate with salt is frequently
set on the breast of the corpse, and is said to keep the same from
"
Salt was originally used in this way as
an emblem
swelling.
1
of the immortal Spirit."
Until lately, it was customary to ring the bells of the
church on the decease of any grown person, which ringing was
is
called the passing bells, i.e. the bells that solicited prayers for
the soul passing into another world.
This custom is nearly
discontinued, and when the bells* are tolled at present, it seems
merely to
distance
let
is
the public
the
short,
know
that a person
corpse
is
usually
is
dead.
carried
When
on
the
men's
shoulders.
Formerly, sprigs of boxwood were served about at funerals,

It was carried
prior to the removal of the corpse for interment.
in the hand, and on the coffin being lowered into the grave, each
This custom ceased about 40 years

person cast in his sprig.
Tradition
that
prior to 1740, rosemary was used for
ago.
says,
the same purpose, but that this plant being all killed by the
severe frost of that year,
boxwood was taken
as a substitute.
Evergreens were anciently used at funerals as an emblem of the

"
that though the Ixxly be dead.
soul's immortality, to signify.
1

[*At the present time the bells rung are The Labour Bell, rung
at 6 o'clock, morning and evening, for six months, beginning on St.
Patrick's day, or on the Monday of the week on which St. Patrick's
day falls, until October The Curfew, rung at 9 o'clock every night
The Market Bell, rung every Saturday morning at
except Sunday
< o'clock
The Funeral Bell usually tolls two strokes at intervals, for
about half an hour previous to funerals The State Bells, rung or> the
death of any old inhabitants, at the request of relatives that is, both
large and small church bells rung together from 7 o'clock until 9
All other customs at funerals and at different times
o'clock at night.
of the year have died out.]
;
35'
is Ever-green and
This custom
always in life."
was probably introduced here by the English settlers, as in
Yorkshire, Rosemary is still carried in the hand at funerals, and
cast into the grave in the manner described.
In France, and
some parts of England, it is common to put a branch of
Rosemary into the hands of the dead, when in the coffin; and
it was
formerly carried in the hand as an emblem of the soul's
This plant was also used at weddings; and on
immortality.
the bridegroom's first appearance it was customary for the
bride's maids to present him with a branch of it bound with a
riband.
In France it is common to burn it in hospitals to
yet the soul
2
prevent infection.
The new year is

common at other times.
ushered in
with better cheer than
Presents are
made
is
to children, which
are called new year's gifts, and some cautious housewives will
not permit the refuse of their kitchen to be carried out on this
lest they lose their luck.
If candlemas day be fine, it is deemed an ill
weather for that season hence the adage,
"If candlemas day is fair and clear,
day,
omen
of the
There'll be two winters in that year."

Shrove Tuesday,* called also Fasten s e'en, or pan-cake
Formerly the barbarous
eve, it is customary to eat pancakes.
was
at
cocks
sticks
of
practised on this day.
practice
throwing
1
On
devoted bird was tied to a stake, and persons standing off

his brutal owner
perches, threw at him with a staff,
The
a few
The
was killed.
receiving one penny for each throw till he
custom ceased about 1794.
Shamrock is worn on the i;th of March, in honour of St.
and whiskey is taken by many, with the ceremonial of
Patrick
;
"
common
drowning the shamrock." On the first of April it

send persons foolish errands, who are called April fools. Palm
the Sunday before Easter.
twigs are carried in the hand
is
to

London Gentleman's Magazine. Philip's History of Vegetables.
Hrande.
,,
c
I he tormer
name.
* Shrove-tide
appears to have been the original
or Shrive, signifying confession
Shrove
the
from
is
derived
Saxon,
part
and tide time i.e., the time of confession. The custom of throwing
at this
at cocks' on this day is said not to be of great antiquity
-with- cock
season school-boys formerly used to entertain their masters
as a perquisite the runfighting the master presiding and claiming
of throwing at cocks
away fowls might not the barbarous practice
have originated in the master exposing in this way the fugitive
2
352
Branches of the common sallow, if budded, are carried in the
hands for palms. On Easter Sunday it is fashionable to have
some new article of dress ; and eggs are used in profusion.
Easter
Monday
is
a day of very general festivity, and on

In the afternoon, if the weather
cock-fights are usually held.
it
is
young men and women resort to a green south of the town

the Ranbuy, and joined in some rustic sport, which
concludes by their return into town late in the evening, playing
thread the needle. Same day, children dye eggs various colours,
and repairing to some gentle declivity, trundle them till they
This appears to be a remnant
break, on which they are eaten.
fine,
called
of an ancient custom in the Christian church, of presenting eggs

at this season, as emblems of the resurrection ; there being a
striking analogy between the matter of an egg, which is capable
of being brought into life, and revival from the dead.
The
custom is referred to in the ritual of Pope Paul V., made for the
use of the people of these kingdoms, in the following words

"Bless, O Lord, we beseech thee, this thy Creature of Eggs,
that it may become a wholesome sustenance to thy faithful
:
Servants, eating it in Thankfulness to thee, on Account of the

Resurrecion of our Lord Jesus Christ. 1 They have been called
Pace or Pasch eggs, from the Latin Pascha, signifying Easter ;
and
it is
believed that the Christians borrowed this custom
from
the Jews.
The practice still prevails in the Greek church at
Easter.
The Russians dye and present eggs to each other at
this time, saying,
of a truth."
egg,
"
The
"
It is so
risen;" the answer is,
meanest pauper in the state, presenting an
Jesus Christ
and repeating the words,
is
Christce raseress,
may demand
"
salute of the empress.

Lovers to their mistresses, relations to
a
each other, servants to their masters, all bring enamelled eggs."
In some places in England, they are covered with gold leaf. In

Persia, painted eggs are presented about the same season, in
remembrance of the origin and beginning of things.

On May eve. young boys and girls resort to the fields and
gather May-flowers, which they spread outside of their doors.
Sprigs of rowan tree were formerly gathered same eve, and
1
stuck above the inside of the out-door heads, to keep off the
witches.
The herb yarrow, (mil-folium) is gathered to cause
1
3
4

Dr. Clark's Travels in Russia.
Harmer's Observations.
353
young
dream of
girls to
who have cows,
rise
their future husbands.
very early on
Some females
morning, and proceed to

the nearest spring well, and
bring home a portion of its water.
This is called, "getting the flower of the well," and those \vho
it
practise
believe
that
their
May
cattle
are thus
secured
against
charms for that season. Until of late years, straight tall trees
were brought from the country by young men, and planted on
this evening for a May pole; which
appears to be a remnant
of the following custom. Anciently a large
company of young
men assembled each May day, who were called May-boys.
They wore above their other dress, white linen shirts, which
were covered with a profusion of various coloured ribbons,
formed
and fantastic knots. One of the party was

and another queen, each of whom wore a crown
composed of the most beautiful flowers of the season, and was
attended by pages who held up the train.
When met, their
first act
was dancing to music round the pole planted the
preceding evening ; after which they went to the houses of the
most respectable inhabitants round about, and having taken a
into large
called king,
short jig in front of each house, received a voluntary offering

from those within. The sum given was rarely less than five
In the course of their ramble the king always
shillings.
presented a rich garland of flowers to some handsome young

"
"
till the
the queen of May
woman, who was hence called
following year.
"
the
jolly god
The money
collected
"
was mostly
sacrificed to
the remainder given to the poor persons of

the neighbourhood.
This custom ceased about eighty years ago.
If St. Swithin's day is wet or showery, it is expected that
;
the weather will continue so for six weeks;

the reverse is expected for the same time.
if
dry same day,
In harvest, when the last of the farmer's corn is about to

be cut, a small portion of the best is plaited and bound up.
The men then stand at a certain distance, and throw their hooks
This is
at it till it is cut, on which they give three cheers.
generally called winning the churn, but in some parts of the
It is carried home and laid above
parish it is called the hare.
door
the
the
name of
the
first
young woman who
enters
be that of the wife of the young man

1
who has put it there. A like custom is observed in Devonshire,
thence.
and in all likelihood it came here with the settlers from
afterwards,
it
is
said, will
Gentleman's Magazine, 1816.
24
354
On
winning the churn, the reapers are usually regaled with

a special feast, also called the churn.
Formerly this feast
consisted of a profusion of homely fare, such as bread, cheese,
butter, cream, &c, and generally concluded with a dance, the
master and mistress joining without distinction in the general
Of late years, this rustic feast has been corrupted by

festivity.
the introduction of tea and whiskey, and the former simplicity
of the entertainment is in a great measure lost.
This feast is believed to be the fragment of a very ancient
custom, formerly held by both Jew and heathen, and afterwards
adopted by the early Christians, who rejoiced and feasted on
getting in the fruits of the season. The sample of plaited corn
is believed to have been the
offering made to the tutelar deity
of harvest. 1
All-hallow eve, hallow e'en, is kept in festive merriment ;

apples and nuts are eaten, and young men and women place
nuts in the fire in the name of their sweethearts.
This custom
is
described by Gay
"
Two hazel nuts
:
And
to each
nut
threw into the flame,

I gave a sweetheart's name
This with the loudest bounce
That
in
me
sore
amazed;
a flame of brightest colour blazed."
Several other innocent fooleries are also practised on this

night, rather out of sport than a belief in the truth of them.
Same
or
evening, boys armed with a short stick, or mall, knock

batter at the doors of the different houses, which they
continue
Formerly cabbages were used for

This night was anciently kept as a harvest home
or thanksgiving for having safe housed the fruits of
; and
prior to the invention of bells, the people were
till
a late hour.
that purpose.
festival,
the field
by a knock on the door, with an

2
night signal, or wakening mallet:
hence, might not the knocking now practised be a vestige of
this ancient custom?
Formerly a custom prevailed, which was termed calling
convened
to nocturnal prayers
instrument
called
the
A short time before Christmas, young men or

assembled each morning about five o'clock, and proceeded
music to the houses of the most respectable persons, where
One of the party then bade
played some lively tunes.
the Waits.

boys
with
they
good
355
to each
morning
and ending by
of those within, beginning with the master,
calling out the hour of the morning,
and state
These visits were continued till some days
after Christmas, when they called in daylight, and received a
donation in silver, which was always spent in the ale-house.
This custom ceased in 1796, or 1797, when all nocturnal
The practice appears to have been
meetings were prohibited.
a remnant of the wanderings of the ancient minstrels.
In the
city of Westminster they still retain regular grants of their
of the weather.
office,
the
by the
title
of
time
inhabitants
of Waifs.
Henry
and
lately
They date
and
their profession
from
serenade
the
during
punished some unlicensed waits, in a.
II.,
winter
regular judicial proceeding.
Late on Christmas eve, young men and boys assembled and

collected carts, cars, gates, boats, planks, &c., with which they
block up the Irish or West gate of this town. There is a vague
tradition that the custom originated in the protestant inhabitants
shutting the gates on the Roman Catholics, when they went out
to
mass on Christmas
This
eve.
is
incorrect,
probably
several old inhabitants informed the writer that
was practised during

rancour
is
totally
their
unknown
Within memory,
it
youth.
Be
this
as
it
no such
as
act
may, party
at present.
was common with boys
to
assemble
school house on the morning before Christmas,

-early
and to bar out the master, who was not admitted till he promised
at
their
a certain number of days vacation.

Early on Christmas day,
the boys set out to the country in parties of eight to twelve,
armed with staves or bludgeons, killing and carrying off such
These were taken to their
fowls as came in their way.
the following day. To this
respective school-rooms, and dressed
feast many persons were invited, who furnished liquors, or
other necessaries: the entertainment usually continued for
several days.
became
less
As
civilization increased, those
popular, and the decline of
this
marauding feasts
custom was much
hastened by the discovery that the cooks often purloined the

best fowls to themselves.
the Christmas holidays it is yet common with young
During
dressed with paper

boys to assemble at night, fantastically
different
the
to
houses, each
to
and
ornaments,
proceed
'Gentleman's Magazine, 1821.
356
repeating in turn the words of some character in the well known
Christmas rhymes. After those orations, halfpence are solicited,
and usually given, which are spent in liquors or sweetmeats.

Formerly great numbers of men and boys resorted to the
fields on this day, to play at shinny, which game was sometimes
warmly contested between the inhabitants of
different
town-
the custom has almost entirely ceased, and a few boys

only assembling to this diversion.
Small wooden boxes are bought by children at this season,
lands
which are called Christmas boxes; into these they put halfpence, or such other small presents as are received at this time,
which are also called Christmas boxes.
Indeed Christmas is
particularly remarkable as a season of presents, hilarity, and
good cheer, and the meanest person may be said to fare
Geese, mutton, and pies, are

sumptuously on this occasion.
most sought after ; and, in short, every appendage connected
with good eating and drinking. Some burn large candles, called
Christmas candles, during the nights of festivity. The general
"
salutation at this time is,
a merry Christmas, and a happy
new
year."
Until of late years, branches of holly were put up against

the seats and walls of the church at Christmas, w here they
remained till Shrove Tuesday.
There is no tradition here
r
this custom.
The learned Dr. Chandler, in his
Travels in Greece, informs us that it is a remnant of druidism
"
"
the houses," says he,
were decked with evergreens in
December, that the Sylvan spirits might repair to them, and
remain unnipped by the frost and cold winds, until a milder
respecting
season renewed the foliage."

Formerly the sexton also carried
small branches of holly to the houses of the most opulent
persons belonging to the established church, who placed it on
the top
of their kitchen shelves, where
same length of time
it
remained for the
as in the church.
The following things are generally observed here as

prognostics of the weather, on which the moon is believed to
have great influence at all seasons. If the new moon appears
with her disk nearly upright, or what is termed on her back,
rough weather is considered during her time. Saturday's change
is
thought to forebode storms and rain
hence the remark,
"
At the full and

Saturday's change is enough in seven years."
quarters of the moon's age, change of weather is expected.
357
\\
hen a
weather
"
appears about the moon, called a brough, stormy

looked for within twenty-four hours; hence it is
circle
is
a far
said,
off
brough and a near hand storm."
If small
floating white clouds appear, which are called cat hair, rain is
looked for next day ; and when a meteor is seen at night, called
a shot
star,
thought that
is
it
it
will
be wet or stormy the day
following.
The singing of the red-breast in the evening on the top of

a tree or bush, is deemed a token of fine weather.
Swallows
low
are
believed
to
indicate
the
reverse.
rain;
high
flying
flying
The
seen abroad in the evening,
or bum-clock,
dor-beetle,
is
When the roaring of

supposed to forebode good weather.
Strangford bar is heard in this lough by the fishers, they
If
conclude that the wind will blow hard from the south.
Scotland is distinctly seen with the naked eye, and the Copeland
islands appear high, a gale is expected from the eastward.
When
the sun appears nearly encompassed by a circle, severe

is expected, and the wind from that direction where
weather
the breach was in the

in the clouds,
If a figure appears in the morning

of a rainbow, which the fishers call a
circle.
like part
Dog, they expect stormy weather;

reverse
if
seen in the evening, the
hence their adage.

"
dog
dog
A
By some
at night is a sailor's delight,
in the
morning
this
is
will
called a
appearance
is seen near the moon, which they
weather is looked for by them.
bark before night."
w eather-gaw.
r
call Ihirlbassey,
If a star
tempestuous
It is deemed unlucky for persons to remove their effects

from one house to another, on a Saturday; or, to begin any
work of importance on that day. We have also heard the like
the week on which Christmas
objection made against the day of
In sickness, it is deemed an ill omen if
was held, on that
year.
the afflicted person is better
"'
on a Sunday: hence, the adage,

If Candlemas-day is fine.
Sunday's ease was never good."
their proverb says.

expected immediately after
Candlemas-day be fair and clear,^
There'll be two winters in that year."
the following
It was formerly believed, that the markets of
streams arose
or
rivers
the
as
in
proportion
year, would advance
old.
in their waters, on the night between the new year and the
considered
is covered with snow, at Christmas, it is
f the
rough weather
"
ground
is
If
358
will be healthy
hence, the saying, if
green Christmas makes a red church-yard."
Dogs
howling, at night, is considered an omen of the death of some
If a dog or cat
person of the family to whom they belong.
coming season
that the
reverse,
"A
is immediately killed, from a

any person they would afterwards pass over, would
take the falling sickness.
Crickets coming to a house, or
removing suddenly from it, is commonly believed to forbode
some change in the family of that house. The three last days
of March are named the borrowing days; and they are expected
to be cold and stormy
hence, the adage, still repeated by old
passes over a corpse, the animal

belief that
people,
"
The first of them is win and weet,

The next of them is snow and sleet
The other one was pickry-bane,
To freeze the birds' neb till the stane. "
;
The
origin of those days is said to have been, the Israelites

lorrowing jewels, trinkets, &c. from the Egyptians, before their
flight
from Egypt.
A
from a
into
it
never removed from one house to another empty,

taken empty into a house, the child put
would not thrive. The virtues attached to a four-leaved
cradle
is
belief, that, if
shamrock, are
still
talked of by
by means of
believed,
it,
some
the
lucky finder
is
to acquire the gift of seeing things,
invisible to other eyes.
The employments of the people have been so fully given

in the tables inserted in this work, that the following additional
notices are all that we deem requisite on that subject.
Tradition states that the woollen manufacture was formerly
this place; but until of late years the
of some consequence in
linen business
people,
cloth
was that which
much being done both
was mostly sold
chiefly gave
in spinning
in Belfast
employment
and weaving.
to the
The
and within the parish were
four linen bleachfields, the last of which ceased about eighteen

These have been superseded by cotton mills and
years ago.
printfields
there are
now
three of each, all of which are pretty
Two
of the former are the property of Mr. Jamesthe

other
of Mr. How. The printfields belong to Mr.
Cowan,
Stewart Dunn. Mr. Saml. Hay, and Mr. Geo. M'Cann [1839].
extensive.
The first cotton cloth made in the parish, was about 1790
Soon after, some
yarn was brought from Whitehouse.
calico webs were given out to be worked by persons in this
;
the
359
town, chiefly on commission. In May, 1796, Mr. Robert Hanly
gave out calico webs on his own account, which first placed this
business here on a permanent footing.
Cotton printing was
commenced within this parish, by the same gentleman, in the
summer of 1804.
The
following were the prices paid
for
in 1796.
weaving calico
Length of Yards.
Prices of Weaving.
i
6
o.
Ten hundred,
96,
Nine hundred,
96,
9.
Eight hundred,
96,
o 19
6.
Prices in 1811.
Ten hundred,
116,
116,
o 17
o 15
o.
Nine hundred,
Eight hundred,
116,
o 12
o.
o 17
o 12
o.
o.
Prices in 1823.
Twelve hundred,
174,
Ten hundred,
In
174,
there were within the
1807,
town
o.
muslin weavers.
Irish quarter, 10
3 cord weavers, and 14 calico weavers.
muslin and 83 calico weavers. Scotch quarter, 3 muslin and 27
Total, 15 at muslin, 3 at cord, and 124 at

time there were 15 linen weavers in the town
November, 1809, there were 190 looms at work
calico weavers.
calico.
and
this
quarters.
in the
1
At
town and suburbs:
in
May, 1811, they were reduced
to
New
60.
[See
Appendix.]
Within the town and quarters are a distillery, brewery, and
two tanyards. A market * is held in the town on Saturdays.
[In
April,
1836,
branch of the
Northern
Bank,
Belfast,
was
Mr. Johns
died in 1866, and was succeeded by Mr. David Pasley as manager,
who died February i3th, 1003, aged 87 years. Mr. William Smyth
\vas the next manager he retired October 5th, 1906, and was succeeded
by Mr. Isaac Graham, the present manager.
In 1895 a now Post Office was opened in High Street, to replace
The following are the names of those
the old one in Market Place.
we find in charge in the annexed years: 1839, George Erskine
till
1861
Robert Alexander;
Nelson;
1858-61,' Mathew
1852-8,
Miss Nelson, who resigned, and was succeeded by
November, 1883
since 1892, Miss
Miss Percy, who removed to Portrush, July, 1892
opened here.
The
first
manager was Mr. Alexander Johns.
O'Gorman.]
Street was
[*In 1837 the old distillery and malt kiln in North
opened as a market.
the corn mill kiln and distillery in Irish
In January,
1824,
It is stated the proprietor, John
Quarter were advertised for sale.
6.000 in erecting an extensive distillery, ready for
Thompson, spent
work, dwelling house, yard, and loading quay erected.
36
which is much better attended than formerly.

Fairs * are also
held on the i2th May, and ist November.
In the spring of 1811, a stage coachf called the Commerce,
began to run through this town from Lame to Belfast, on

Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays; at present two stage
coaches run between those places on same* days. Eight jaunting
cars pass hence to Belfast on the mornings of said days, and
return in the evening
several of these also run to Belfast
:
every day
the fare
is
only
8d.
is.
The
first
regular conveyance
from hence to Belfast was a jaunting car established by Mr.

William Wilson of this town, about 1796; the fare was 2s. 2(1.
The FISHERY} of
employment to many
the bay furnishes an important source of

it
is computed that near 300
persons
:
people are employed in this way, including those who spin

hemp for nets, gather bait, attend markets, and cadgers. In
September, 1819, the number of boats and persons employed
as
were
Boats, 27; men, 123; of these 102 were

95 of those men could read and write, 26 could read,
only were illiterate. A few of those persons were only
fishers,
married
and
fishermen occasionally.
Their fishing boats are of very different descriptions, and
for distinct purposes.
Seven or eight boats usually sail from
the
quay
these
are
smack
rigged,
and follow trawling or
October, 1865, this old distillery was taken by Mr. Nelson Boyd,
of Belfast, and converted into chemical works, which have given place
to works for the manufacture of salt.
Alexander Gunning was the proprietor of a brewery in West Street.
1841, John Legg carried on the business of a currier and tanner
in the Scotch Quarter, and for a great many years James Woodside
his sons, William Allen Woodside, J.P., and David Allen, in \\Ysi
Street, succeeded in the business
they were also ship owners.
;
Alexander Hunter was a soap and candle manufacturer in High

and North Street.
*At present the fairs are held first Saturday in February, first
day in May, first Saturday in August, and first day in November.]
t The two stage coaches mentioned were the Larne Royal Mail
These coaches had their stopping
and Magee's Larne Day Coach.
place at Mr. Henry's Inn in Antrim Street, opposite the jail, which,
with Mr. Samuel Erskine's, in the same street, and Mrs. Sinnott, in
High Street, were the principal hotels.
In April, 1848, a branch of the Northern Counties (now Midland)
was opened to Carrickfergus, and in 1862 the railway line was opened
In 1890 the path was made along the railway to Taylor's
to Larne.
Avenue, and in 1896 the line was doubled from Greenisland to CarrickStreet
fergus.
at the Scotch Ouartor

industry is now obsolete
one boat for long line fishing, and three fishermen in
the Scotch Quarter there are three or four trawlers at the Town Quay.
In 1856 there were fifty long line fishers and seven boats, six other
boats were in the herring and other fishing.]
J
Ouay
The
there
fishing
is
36
When fishing for plaice

<lredging.
for oysters, dredging, or drudging.
it
is
called trawling
when
These boats commonly carry four hands each, and their

from ^30 to ^70
a trawling net costs about
The
nets
are shaped like a bag, and mostly made here,
,/~6.
of the material called Usher's hemp: they are from 10 to 12
fathoms in length ; their meshes about three inches and a half,
save near the beam to which the net is fastened, where the
meshes are about one inch and a half.
The beam varies in
length from 24 to 32 feet.
Plaice and oyster are the fish sought after by these boats,
clams,
though occasionally skate, sole, and lythe are taken
mussels, and other shell fish, are caught in the dredges with
price varies
Some plaice are taken at all seasons, but are

usually most plentiful from the beginning of September till
January, after which they are said to retire into deeper water.
the oysters.
If the weather
is
rough
at
any season, they remove, or bury
themselves in the sand.

Plaice are
now
less
plentiful than formerly
within the
25 years, two hundred were frequently taken at a haul

at present two or three hundred are deemed a tolerable day's
fishing, though the numbers vary from a few to four hundred.
The prices of plaice are equally irregular, varying from i8s.
to -Q\ 2 9 per hundred of six score.
The gradual decline of
these fish has been alleged to arise from the frequent use of
the trawl, which often brings up large quantities of spawn,
from which circumstances it might be proper to limit the use
of this net to certain seasons.
The trawl net was first used
here about 52 years ago, prior to which the plaice were caught
last
by the hook.
* are
the bay.
chiefly taken on the eastern part of
from the beginning of September till May, or in the common
phrase, in every month that has an R in its name, after which
the fish assume a milky appearance, and are then out of
season.
The oysters are taken up by a strong bag net, called a
drudge, the mouth of which is kept open by an iron hoop or
Oysters
oyster fishery, which formerly gave employment

and
1901 occupied only two boats, employed six men,
It has been stated that the disproduced ^64 worth of oysters.
appearance of the oysters, herrings, and other fish in the lough, as they
were wont to appear, is owing to the sewage matter and dye stuffs
from Belfast flowing down the lough, and the subsequent contamination
of the water, also falling clinkers from passing vessels.]
[*
to
The once famed
many men,
in
362
bar, of
an oblong shape, and about three feet and a half in

is about four feet in length, and made from
The net
length.
the refuse of tow.
The number of
oysters taken daily by each boat when

uncertain,
dredging,
very
frequently varying from a few to
three hundred.
These oysters are generally large some have
is
teen taken that weighed two pounds, being six inches long, and
four in breadth ; the average weight is about one pound four
Their
ounces, and near five inches long and four in breadth.
price varies at present from 8s. to i8s. per hundred, of six
score.
In 1800, their usual price was from 45. to 75. ; they
were then more plentiful, from eight to twelve hundred being
frequently taken by one boat at a fishing.
These fish are found on beds of sand,
commonly in deep
amongst a substance technically called clutch. In some
of them have been discovered pearls as large as a pea; the
same are also found in the horse mussel (Mytilus Modiolus),
water,
dredged promiscously with the common oyster.

has been observed that the oysters on the northern side
of the bay are the largest, owing to their being seldom disturbed.
that are
It
Of
some have been taken as far up this lough as Green

near two miles from the town of Carrickfergus.
The Scotch quarter boats are different from those described,
late
islarfd,
both in their equipments and employments. They are from 17

to 21 feet in keel, and from 6 to 8 feet wide: tonnage from
2 to 3 tons.
Each boat has two lug sails, viz., fore and main,
and have also booled oars, six of which they use in winter, and
four in summer. 1
One of these boats costs about ^30, and
their tacklings, as nets, lines, hooks, &c., near the same sum.
The
as
nets of each boat are in five shares, sometimes belonging to

persons ; the share consisting of forty eight yards, the
many
meshes an inch square, and an hundred and fifty deep. These

nets are hempen, and well barked with oak or sallow, to make
them durable.
Both the number of boats and hands employed varies with
the season ; during winter, the boats fishing seldom exceed nine
Booled oars arc those which row two at one beam
upon each
oar is fastened a piere of oak timber, the length of such part of the
which timber enables them to
oar as is worked within the boat
Between each
balance the oar, so that they row with greater ease.
beam of the boat is also fastened a piece of timber called a stretcher.
or footspur, against which they place their feet when rowing, to enabfrthcm to have a more complete command of their oar.
1
363
or ten, with from seven to eight persons in each ; at this season
they commonly fish with lines.
Every fisherman's line has eight
and eight hooks upon
score
two fathoms between each
it,
hook.
Shooting, or setting their nets or lines, is always done

with the tide if lines, as they shoot them they are all fastened
:
Between each line is suspended a stone or sinker.

together.
The former is about 7 pounds in weight, the sinker is a stone
of about 56 pounds weight, and one is usually attached to every
second line.
To the lines are also fastened a number of
bladders for buoys, which are tanned and tarred, to render them
impervious to water.
Some
alterations
within
lx>ats
present they
memory
are all
have taken place in the equipment of

formerly woollen sails were used, at
hempen canvass
for the
grapple they
have substituted the anchor.
The
season
time these
boats
set
o'clock in the morning,

hours.
If the weather
to
off
during the winter months
it
fish
is
changes with the
commonly about one
and they are usually out about twelve

is
moderate, they remain at anchor
all
that space, between setting and hauling their lines or nets; if

stormy, after setting, they go on shore at Castle Chichester, or
From February till November they fish

the
during
day, except for herrings, which are always caught by
The hours of employment are pretty much the same at
night.
more northward.
all seasons,
when no accident
occurs.
In summer, the number of boats fishing are from 16 to 20,

and from 4 to 6 persons in each; they fish occasionally (as in
The fish taken are chiefly cod, ling,
winter) with lines or nets.
Cod is the principal

lythe, or pollack, and herrings.
caught from November till March, and is then best in
season ; but the young ones are considered always in season
the cod are taken between Light-house isle and island Magee,
hake,
fish
40 fathoms water.
These boats also fish for
in about
lobsters,
which are taken by
baskets
putting pieces of fish, as plaice or eel, into wicker
with strait mouths, that admit the lobsters, but prevent their
return.
They are in season from May till October. Crabs
are also caught in the baskets with the lobsters.
The common baits used here for taking fish by the hook,
the fishers
are, lug, or sea worm, and a shell fish called by
buckie.
(Buccinum Undatum).
The former of
these
is
dug out
364
of the sand
at
low water; the
latter is
baskets, called -pots, in a similar

Herrings are usually caught
of
late years are rather
in
July and August
taken in small wicker
manner as the lobsters. 1

from May till December, and
more abundant than formerly,
all other fish,
especial ly
save cod. are scarcer.
To
discover herrings at night, the fishers make a noise with their

feet against the anchor in the boat ; if the fish are near, the
.shock of the water causes
This
by
their
When
them
observed by the curl
is
to dart off with great rapidity.

the surface of the water
made on
movement, and is called flushing, that is, starting them.

numbers are very great and compact, they are
their
termed a ball: sometimes, when a ball is flushed, the upper fish

are forced out of the water by the movement of those below,
in which case the confusion of the body increases, and the
upper fish, alarmed, shoot over each other for a considerable
space, with such rapidity, that their motion has been mistaken
for flying. An instance of this phenomenon is recorded, where
ths fish being close to the shore, a few were forced in their
flight on the land, and taken.
For a complete list of the fish caught in this bay, with

and local names, and observations on their former
and present numbers, see Appendix, No. XXIII.
their Linnsean
Notwithstanding the exposure of the fishers to the fury of

and waves, at all times and seasons, very few have
been lost. February, 1746, six fishers were lost during a storm;
in 1791, two others; one in 1797 ; and five on the 5th January.
1820.
By the humane exertions of the Rev. Robert D. D.
the winds
Wilson, and other gentlemen of the town, a handsome sum was

collected for the wives and children of the latter persons.
This district still exhibits numerous monuments of the
which
as
inhabitants,
primitive
yet
remain.
raths
They
are
and barrows, twenty four of

called
promiscuously
mounts,
moats, or jorths, and are believed by some to l>e the abode of

fairies, an opinion that has contributed not a little to their
a general observation, that from one mount

always seen, and to the truth of this remark only
one exception has been observed here, which probably proceeds
preservation.
another
It is
is
Formerly the persons who fished in this bay were obliged to

out a licence from the mayor: in the records is the following notice.
" October
future
3oth, 1727 agreed that no person or persons for the
shall presume or Take upon them to Fish in any part of the Seas,
from the
belonging to this Corporation, until they take out a licence
Mayor." It appears by the same authority that freemen paid annually
1
35. 4d., all others 6s. 8d.
365
from one or more being
levelled,
as several have been rased
within memory.
The mounts present very different appearances; some high,

and rather tapering to the top, others comparatively flat, and
hollow in the middle, surrounded by a trench, and evidently
intended for defence. These are always situated near a stream
or rivulet ; but very little attention seems to have been paid to
their situation, the summits of many being lower than the
ground adjacent.
The conical mounts were probably reared in remembranc

of those who fell in battle this opinion is strengthened by the
name of one of the largest, called Duncru, i.e., the fortress of
:
perhaps alluding to some battle fought on the spot.

opening a part of one of those mounts about twelve years
blood,
On
ago, a place was discovered on the north-west side resembling

a lime kiln, but without cement.
In the bottom were found
of wood, and some bones alleged to be human.

Within a circle of large stones at a few yards distance, were
found a number of urns containing ashes, the same kind of
Over each urn was a large flat stone,
charcoal, and bones.
bearing evident marks of fire, and near them the skulls, and
other bones of animals, which had been probably offered in
sacrifice ; the urns were all much broken, evidently from the
weight of their covering. Part of a deer's horn was also found ;
this was anciently a symbol of hunting, which it was customary
to bury in a warrior's grave. 1
The urns were coarse, and of a
ashes, charcoal
reddish colour outside,
resembling
common
flower- pot
all
were dark, as if some substance had been burnt

in them
their mouths were rather straight, and round the
When
outside of each was a raised circle, regularly embossed.
whole, each urn seemed capable of holding about six quarts.
Lately, in making an incision into one of those mounts,
some bones, and cinders of charcoal, were found about 10 feet
their insides
:
below the surface, also a row of short oaken stakes. Spenser,

"
in his
View of the State of Ireland," supposes such mounts to
have been erected as monuments of those who fell in battle
2
and the custom is believed to have been originally Scythian.
Scandinavian
and
other
as
the
Picts.
This is the more probable,
:
tribes
who
arrived in this country, followed the practice.

By a
deity, the body was
law of Odin, the Gothic legislator and

1
Dissertations on Ossian.
Mac Curtin's Vindication of the Antiquity of Ireland.
3 66
ordered to be burned, and the ashes collected in an urn, and

laid in a grave. 1
Herodotus, who flourished 413 years before
Christ, mentioning the tombs raised by the Scythians to their
"
kings, says,
they laboured earnestly to raise as high a
for them as possible."
Lucan, the
to this custom,
"
Roman
poet,
when he
who
flourished
A.D.
65,
mount
alludes
says,
Under a mountain
raised by hands, they keep.

Kings' sacred ashes, that securely sleep."
The custom
"
High
Of
is
also referred to in the Iliad
in the midst they raised the swelling
bed
rising earth, memorial of the dead."
M. Guthrie, in her Tour through the Taurida, mentions

Tumuli similar to those described; and Dr. Clarke in his
Travels in Russia, says they are numerous all along the road
from Petersburg to Moscow, and that such as had been opened
contained bones of men and horses, and sometimes warlike
weapons. Maria Graham, in .her late Letters from India, notices
sesing similar mounts in that country ; and Brown, in his
Western Gazetteer, also notices similar
state of Indiana.
artificial erections in the
Tradition ascribes the erection of those here to the Danes,
an opinion by no means improbable, as they are known to have

In Essex, on the borders of
reared such in England.
Cambridgeshire, are a number cf conical hills exactly resembling
those described, known to have been reared by Canute, king of
the Danes, on a field of battle, in in6. 2
Such of the flat mounts, r raths, as have been levelled,

confirm the belief of their having been intended merely for
defence.
Their ramparts, or breastworks, were formed of the
common
soil
near where they stood
within the rampart the soil
was deep and blackish, differing materially from the other parts.
Some ashes, and cinders of charcoal of wood, have also been
found within them ; and in one which was opened a few years
ago, there was found a cave, which extended nearly round the
It was composed of large stones laid
inside of the rampart.
across others, and seemed to have been intended for a store, or
place of refuge.
Giraldus Cambrensis
expressly
Ledwich's Antiquities.
-Gentleman's Magazine, 1822.
1
ascribes
the
erection
of
36?
those mounts, or forts, to the Danes ; and Mac Curtin, in his
Vindication of the Antiquity of Ireland, says, " the Danes,
about A.D. 852, began to build strong forts over all the
kingdom, the Irish do call them rat/is or lies; they were so near
one to another, that one might see one rath from another, all
over the whole kingdom."
They are said to have been
proportioned to the property and power of the toparch: round
them the clan resided, and within them they retreated from
1
From
danger.
their
being the residences of the chief, they

some of their names still
became courts of judicature;
also
allude to the custom, beginning with Lis, corrupted from Lois,

"
it was common
Spenser says
signifying a court.
among the
Irish to make assemblies upon a rath or hill, there to parley
about Matters and
Wrongs between Township and Township.''

the ancient boundaries of this corporation is a large mount
called Lisglass, i.e., the green court.
The name moat, by which
On
they are often mentioned, is a corruption of the Irish mo/a,

signifying a mound, and corresponds with the ancient name
2
rathe, or raid, primarily signifying a place of security.
Three cairns remain within

of
hills
called
three,
the largest
Sleive-true,
is
this parish, all on the summits

situated in the West Division, on a hill
the mountain of
i.e.,
no mention. 3 This heap is
the base, and about 20 feet high;
Slieve-triar,
literally
but of what three there
77 yards in circumference at
but was formerly evidently
commonly
called
the
is
larger
than
at
present.
White Cairn, perhaps from the
It
is
stones
being covered with a grey incrustation.

On its summit is a large stone six feet in length, and five
feet and a half in breadth at the north end, but little more
than two feet at the south
it
is
about two feet in thickness.
This stone was doubtless anciently a cromleigh, i.e., the stone of

bowing or adoration ; religious rites being performed there of
old, from a belief that the souls of the dead resided at those
places.
Formerly, like all cromleighs, it was supported by other
but about fifty years ago, it was cast down to its
;
present position, in consequence of a man having dreamt that
money was hidden under it. The search, however, was unsuccessful; nothing being discovered but a badger, which was
large stones
unearthed in the course of the operation.

1
2
3
Anthologia Hibernica,
Ledwich
Antiquities.
At the base of this hill aro three vory large stones, called the
three brothers, which still serve for land-marks.
[See also O'Lavcrty's Diocese of Down & Connor, Vol. 3.]
3 68
A little west of Sleive-true is the Rea-hill, probably

On it is
corrupted from Reagh-hill, i.e., the hill of the king.
a cairn, the base of which is 7 5 yards in circumference ; its
stones have been mostly carried away to build houses, or
enclose
fields.
horse market and race are held on this
hill
annually, on Christmas day.

[Not now held.]
About one mile north-east of Sleive-true is a cairn exactly
similar to those just noticed, called Cairn-na-neade, literally
Cairnadde, the coped heap. In the northern part of the North

East Division is a place called " The Priest's Cairn."
There
is
no record nor oral tradition respecting these
but
that
;
they were burying places, is confirmed by the
following circumstance. On clearing off a part of the cairn on
Sleive-true * about 26 years ago, for the purpose of erecting a
school house, an earthen urn was discovered, but unfortunately
it was broken
by the workmen in their hurry to get it up, as
cairns
In this they weiv

supposed it to contain money.
disappointed, as only some blackish substance adhered to it.
Cairns are numerous on the mountains and hills of the
they
county of Antrim, and are said to have been erected as

memorials of the dead. On the Fairhill, in the adjoining parish
"
of Ballynure, is the site of a cairn called

Quigley's cairn ;
Cairnlough, near Glenarm, takes its name from a cairn that
formerly stood there, within a small lough
on a high
hill
in
the parish of Ardclines, is a cairn called Cairn-Neal, from one

of the O'Neills, who fell in battle, and was interred there ; by
the conical hill of Slemish, near Broughshane (slaibh-mios), is
a cairn called Cairnalbonack, which is said to have been reared
'
by every person of an army of Scots casting a stone in passing ;

on Collenwarcl hill, and on the Cave hill, are similar heaps,
the names of which are lost; and on Knockleade there is a
"
the heap of the
large cairn, called Cairn-an-truagh, i.e.,
"
three ; another, on Great Aura, marks the place where the
Mac Quillans were defeated by the Mac Donnells ; and there
is one on the S. E. side of the mountain of Trostan, erected
by the Mac Donnells and Mac Aulays, called Caslin Sourhvbuy.~
[*
Of
the cairns mentioned few no\v remain
Duncrue
is
in
a good
The schoolhouse on Slievetrue was built in 1803.

state of preservation.
hy the late James Craig, M.P., Scoutbush
owing to its exposed
situation it was allowed to go to ruin.]
;
Drummond's
Giant's Causewav.
369
The erection of cairns * appears to be of great antiquity

and some have been intended for other purposes than those
above mentioned.
Cairns are noticed in scripture as being
reared over the bodies of Achan and Absalom, and one as a
memorial of a solemn covenant between Jacob and Laban.
;
Cairns are found in the interior of North America, 1 in Siberia.

2
and numbers of them
Iceland, and other northern counties ;
be
(l>elieved
to
Western
Isles.
monumental)
are
seen
in
Scotland
and the
The
Scottish highlanders. a Celtic people, say

"
to the heads of clans, by way of compliment,
I will add a
stone to your cairn ;" meaning that they will honour the person,
after his death, by contributing to rear his monument. 4
There are no natural caves within this parish, and but few
of the
artificial
kind have been discovered.
In the southern
brow of the Knockagh hill, are three cavest cut out of the
rock, which, from the difficulty of ascent to them, appear to
have been intended as places of refuge.
At the base of the same hill are also several other caves.'
which seem to have been used at some distant period for
habitations, a small crevice being in each, evidently ntended
as a fire-place.
burn
Adjoining the cascade on the southern branch of WoodThe

river, are two caves hewn out of the face of a rock.
upper one
is
called Peter's cave
both can be entered with some
but are not spacious.

Caves were anciently used
difficulty,
habitation,
being
the
secret
They were
inhabitants.
"
also
places of refuge and

winter dwellings of the
as
and
used
as
stores
and
granaries.
"
and they
long after the arrival of the English in this island ;
for
the
as
also
used
to
have
been
dead, as
receptacles
appear
3
numerous human bones have been found in some of them.
[*As a revival of an old custom, on Sunday, 2ist Juno. iQoS, a

was erected at Cushendun to the memory of Shane O'Neill. See
cairn
page
22.]
Bartram's Travels.
Henderson's Journal of a
-Bell's Travels through Siberia.
dence in Iceland.
3
Johnson's Tour to the Hebrides.
1
Encyclopedia Britannica.
Resi-
as O'Haughan's
[+The most western of these caves is locally known
Cave. Eneas O'Haughan was one of four brothers, robbers, who were
They ascended and descended by
long a terror to the 'neighbourhood.
the" Deer's Lane to the house of a Mrs. Jacques.]
,
25
37
The tradition of this neighbourhood is, that these caves

were made and inhabited by the Pehts, or Picls, a branch of
the great Scythian stock, who. overran a considerable part of
Europe. Caves are frequently mentioned in the Old Testament
In the book of Genesis we
as places of burial and refuge.
are informed that Abraham bought a cave for a burying place
for his family ; and in Judges
Israel made them dens, which
caves,
it
is
said.
were
in
"
the
The
children of
mountains,
and
and strong-holds."
RUIN'S
OF THE CASTLE OF CLOUGHNAHARTY.
Other appearances have also been

have been traces of the residences of
In cutting peat on the Commons a few
rows of wooden stakes were discovered
surface.
As
the
Irish
hut,
or
observed, and alleged to

the ancient inhabitants.
eaban,
years ago, some regular
about TO feet below the
was composed of the
branches of trees fixed in the ground and covered with rushes

or grass, might not those stakes have been the remains of an
1
ancient caban preserved by the peat?
1
Anthologia Hibcrnica.
Near the same place
-was found, about 21 years ago, a row of wooden stakes

standing
upright, about seven feet below the surface, and pointed with
some sharp instrument.
From a knob that remained on the
head of each,
fasten
cattle
it
to.
was conjectured they had been intended to

These appearances at least strengthen the
"
whilst tillage, and all

-opinion that peat has generated,
attention to agriculture, gave place to war and rapine
[1839].
Of ancient castles * few- vestiges now remain, besides those
1
'
On the shore, West Division, are some

formerly mentioned.
remains of a castle called Lugg's castle, from a family of this
place, by whom the lands attached to it were held in 1576.
was anciently called Cloughloughcarly, Cloughnohearty, or
Old Stone. There is neither record nor tradition respecting
this castle.
On digging about it some years ago, large iron
Tceys were found, and many human bones.
It
the
Speed, in his Map of Ireland, published in 1610, has laid

-down a castle called Dunrock, near the w est bank of Loughmourne.
This must have been an error, as there is not the
slightest trace of it observable, nor any tradition of a castle or
fort having been there at any time.
r
At Scoutbush, about one mile and a half west from the

are some vestiges of an ancient military
town of Carriekfergus,
1
The
formerly called the Scout-guard, or Lcttice-land.
former name is believed to have been taken from its being the
post,
station of the scout major, an office similar to that of provost

marshal ; 2 the latter name is supposed to have been given from
daughter of Francis Knolles, and wife of Walter

3
The deep
Devereux, earl of Essex, and governor of Ulster.
trench by which it was formerly encompassed can still be traced.
It contains upwards of two acres of ground, and appears to
Lettice,
have been a quadrangle, flanked with bastions, and entered by

draw-bridges on the east and north.
Tradition states this to have been the favourite residence
of
general
Robert
Munro,
who
commanded
the
Scottish
It is added,
auxiliary forces here, from April 1642 till 1648.
that early in the former year it was the residence of a respect-
M >till
old wall of "Castle Lugg
remains;
[* The remains of the
has been built up to form a gable to a shed. A modern house has
been erected near the site and named "Castle Lugg;" it is no\v
orrtipird by Stuart S. Littlr. F.pq.l
1
Grants of igth James I. to Sir Arthur Chichester.
8
l>s. Cur. Hib.
it
Camden's Elizabeth.
372
Protestant family called Crymble; and that a Romars
Catholic nurse, who resided with them, let down the draw-bridge
in the night, and admitted a party of rebels, who massacred
able
The elder Crymble is said to have made a

most desperate resistance, killing several of the assailants after
his bowels had fallen out, and even driving others over the
the whole family.
drawbridge.
In the
mansion,
Middle Division are some
enclosed
by
fosse
three
traces
yards
of
wide,
an
ancient
and about
three hundred in circumference.
Ancient military weapons have been often found in thisas swords, hatchets, and spear heads, all of brass, and
arrow heads of flint, vulgarly termed elf -si ones. Xo i, in the
parish
found in a bog in
These hatchets were fastened on a pole, and carried
1
in the hand as a walking-staff.
Xo. 2 represents a brass spear
A short brazen sword with
near
the
same
found
head,
place.
two edges, was found a few years ago in Loughmourne.
annexed
plate, is a figure of a brass hatchet
Ardboley.
Among
the antiquities of this district
may
be reckoned the
numerous coins * found in the neighbourhood, some of which are

Silver coins of the Alexanders, kings of
of an early date.
1
Grose's Antiquities of Ireland.

was a mint in Carrickfergus is without doubt: some
have been found, coined by John De Courcy. In tin
Calendar of Documents, Ireland, of the years 1171, 1251, p. 475, it
"
is stated
Expenses incurred in the mint, Ireland (35 Henry II.,
dated October i-fth to September 8th, 1252).
Hiring of servants and"
horses to carry ^.'2,000 from Limerick to Carrickfergus to form a
Also
in
Calendar
of Documents, yearsmint in Ulster, ^13
4."
"
From a chaplain
Pleas and profits of the mint, Ireland.
1228, 1255
"
.0 28 o.
Numbers of
of Carrickfergus for old halfpence newly clipt,
coins have been found at different times.
[* That there
silver farthings*
:
Mav, 1855, on removing the earth in North Street for

purpose of laying gas pipes, three pounds weight of base
minted for Ireland by Elizabeth, Philip and Mary, werecoins,
of
Lane.
Mr.
discovered.
Trooper's
Ferguson,
May,
1903,
unearthed a cow's horn containing 150 silver coins in a good'
state of preservation, containing groats and half-groats of Robert
Bruch, from the Edinburgh mint; groats, pennies, and halfpennies of
Edward III, from the London, Dublin, Eboracia, and Cantor mints;
also halfpennies of Edward II. and Edward the Black Prince, and a
These coins must have represented a large
halfpenny of Edward I.
money value at one time. They were purchased by the Belfast City
Council, and a special case made to hold them in the Museum of the
In 1805 some coins were found in North
Municipal Library, Belfast.
with the date,
Street, one Henry VIII. and two Philip and Mary,
1900, January iqth. in digging a grave
1556; one Elizabe'th, no date.
in St. Nicholas' Churchyard the graved igger turned up twelve coins,.
William and Anne.
In
the
V.VTXS OF THK-
t'HL'
RC1I OF ]\1LLYA3>',
[The foundations of the Church of Killyann can still be traced,

having the dimensions inside of about 41 feet long by 16 feet wide.
See "Transactions of the Belfast Naturalists Field Club."]
375
Scotland, and of John Baliol, have been frequently discovered
also some English coins, as those of
;
Henry
II., the other Henrys, the Edwards, Charles I. and II.,
in different places
Mary,
and James I. Several specimens of the base coin

James II., have been picked up, and also numerous
copper coins of Louis XIII. of France.
Elizabeth,
issued by
local copper tokens, issued by persons residing in

Antrim,
Lisburn, and Glenarm, have been discovered ;
Belfast,
each bearing on one side the name of the person who issued it,
Many
and on the other the nominal value (one penny.) Several tokens
are also found, that were issued by the inhabitants of CarrickOn the obverse of these is a castle embattled, and on
fergus.
the reverse the nominal value, encircled by the issuer's name.
tokens discovered are those of William Stubbs, Henry-
The
Burns. John Davadys, John Wadman, Andrew Willoughby,

and Anthony Hall. (See Xos. 3, 4, 5, in the annexed plate.)
Their dates are commonly from 1656 to 1666.
Some of the
latter have been found that had passed for two pence, all the
In 1808, a gold coin of Henry VI.
others were for one penny.
called an Angel, was found near the town wall ; on its obverse
was impressed St. Michael and the Dragon on the reverse a
shield with the arms of France and England quartered, in a
;
Several small copper coins of

ship having a cross for a mast.
also different local tokens.
been
Elizabeth
have
found;
Queen
On
the obverse of one found lately was ROBERT BRICE, and a

word much defaced ; on its centre were his arms, three stars and
two crescents in the field; on the reverse. CASTLE CHICHESTER,
On another token was inscribed JAMES SIM, of
1671, id.
HOLLYWOOD, id. On a third, on its obverse, W. R. D. M.
James M'CulIough, Scotch Quarter, has a number of

a
mound in Millnot's
when
coins
found
removing
Acre, N.E. Division, in the year 1855, viz., Nero, Comodus, Caracalla,
Cladius II., Diocletian, Constantine' the Great, (Urbits Roma) Severus
tokens of Andrew Willoughby,
Maximinus II. and Valens
II.,
merchant of Carrickfergus, found in the garden adjoining the old
in Lang's garden, and Robert
found
Franciscan Friary, Hugh Eccles
Double Turnois of Louis XIII. and his
Bruce in Julian's acres.
and Mary
brother, Gaston de Orleans, silver and copper coins of Philip
and Elizabeth found when opening up the streets in Scotch Quarter
and North Street for new sewerage system, silver and copper Edward
II. and III., William III., William and Mary, Anne and the Georges
in the old Churchyard,' and James' gun money,
I., II., III., and IV.
James (copper), and Charles I. and II. found in Castle Garden.
*The silver coin of John De Courcy (Patricia Farthing), Cragwas sold in Spinks & Sons, London, in December, 1906.
fergus
Mr.
Roman
for ^?i.]
376
1656;
reverse,
shin; on
its
reverse, Mr.
AA, GLENARM; on
its
the reverse, hands crossed, -and Archibald
token of some person in Belfast was also found,

Several other
obverse a ship under sail; reverse. 1671.
Addison.
On
On a fourth, SA, in BroughSAMUEL ANDREW, id.' On a fifth.
LISNAGARVY,
id.
tokens of persons who had resided in Belfast, have been found,

all of which are engraved in the History of Belfast, published
in 1823.
Quearns, or hand-mills, formerly used to grind corn, are

sometimes found, and preserved by the curious; and small
pipes resembling our tobacco-pipes, said to have anciently
belonged to the Pchts.
KEY OK THE IRISH OR WEST
C-ATK.
[This key was the property of the late C. A. W. Stewart,

Esq., B.L., or, as he was called, Councillor Stewart, who presented
it some
time before his death to Walter Carruth, Esq., J.P., Irish
Councillor Stewart inherited
the
which was
Quarter.
property
formerly Squire Ezekiel Davys Wilsons, twenty times mayor, and who
lived in the old house with the railings in the Irish
Quarter South.
This property formerly belonged to the Davys family." The plot of
at
the
West
or
Irish
Gate
was
let
in
to
Ezekiel Davys
ground
1729
Wilson at the yearly rent of 6d.
On the 24th of December Squire
Wilson appointed two men to watch the Irish Gate to prevent it being
blocked, which was the custom for a great number of years, until it
was removed sometime (I believe) in the forties.
The Irish Gate
(West Gate), like the North Gate (Spital Gate), was formerly entered
In July, 1886, at the assizes, a memorial was
by a drawbridge.
presented to the Grand Jury of Carrickfergus for the removal of
the Old North Gate (see page 92).
The Grand Jury in reply said
"
they were not at liberty to touch that arch without the permission
of the owners.
The Municipal Commissioners were more than the
custodians of the gate, they were the owners, and they had no power
to grant the presentment."
On being put to a vote ihe presentment
was lost, fourteen voting against it. In March, 1886, a public meeting
of the Belfast Natural History and Philosophical Society was held,
at this meeting it was unanimously resolved that they regard with
the deepest regret the reported proposition for the demolition of the
Old North Gate, Carrickfergus. A communication was sent to Secretary
of the Grand Jury, Mr. Robert Kolly, which the Chairman of the
Court refused to read at the Presentment Sessions in July.]
APPENDIX
No.
The
I.
Statutes of Knockfergus, ordered and decreed to be kept

the Right honorable Sir Henrye Sydney, knt. L.
by
President
of Wales
of
Deputie
Ireland,
and the marches of the same,

and the whole counsaile of
I..
this
realme.
First.
That all and everie the inhabitaunts
of the said Towne shal be reddie to answer all
and laroms geven by the enemies, and therein to
and advice of the maior of the said Towne for the
and freemen
maner cryes
doe the
will
tyme beinge,
payne of forfeyture for everie tyme neglectinge his said

the some of 73. 8d. Sterl. to be levied for the use of
the said Towne.
Item.
That everie the said freemen and Inhabitaunts in
the said Towne shal answer all Courtes and other causes l>efore
in
dutie,
the maior of the said Towne, beinge called thereunto, in payne

of forfeyture everie tyme not answeringe the same, 35. 4d.
Sterl.
That whosoever
Item.
anie person
Sd. Sterl.
Item.
Towne),
mather,
without
That
if
an
will
officer
presume
to
forfeyt
to tak a pledge
for everie
from
tyme
js.
anie foreyner (not being free in the sayd
retayle anie wyne, cloth, silk, saffron. Spice,

alome, or anie other sorte or Sortes, of wares or
shal
merchandyse within the sayd Towne. or the liberties of the

same, in payne of forfeyture of the goods or merchandyse so
Sold, to the behalf of the maior and commonaltie of the sayd
Towne or the liberties of the same, and that whosoever shal
present anie suche goodes so bowght and sold, to share for his
labor 1 2<\.
37
Item.
That noe person or persons doe goe to anie Vessel
or Shipp small or great to buy anie kind of merchandyse,
without lycence of the maior, in payne of 75. Sterl. forfeyture.
Item.
All brawels quarrells, and frayes which shal be tothe disquyetness of the Towne, to be fyned at 205. Ster. eyther
els if the parties so offending be not worthe so muche, then
he or they to be emprisoned according to the discretion of the

maior.
All manner of actions small and great, to
Item.
come
before the maior, of sayd Towne, in payne of 75. 3d. Sterl.

Item.
That no forreyne merchaunt or other forreyner, shal
bye anie maner of wares, goods, or merchaundyces
at
hands of
man
of the contrie or other persone not beinge free, in

payne of forfey tinge the goods so bowght,-- and whosoever shal
anie
present the partie or goods so forreyne bowght and forreyne

sold, shall have for his presentment i2d. Sterl.
That whosoever shal
Item.
that
it
is set
at
by the
sell
above the price

he shal forfeyte one
his beefe
pricers. that then
quarter of his said beefe to the maior.

If anie man doe bye anie horse or beefe after the
Item.
Sone
daye at 6 of the clock in the morninge r

maior
Item.
That whosoever beinge free or forreyne shal bye or
sell anie goods wares or merchandyse to collor the same for anie
forreyne merchaunt or other, the same goods wares or
Sett untill the next
to forfeyte 75. 8d. to the
merchandyse to be forfeyted.
Item.
That whosoever dothe absent himself from anie
quest, being appointed thereunto by the
fey t for everie tyme 75. 3d. Sterl.
Town
That whosoever shal slander
Item.
woman do
his
Clerke. to for-
neighbour,
man-
unto the maior 75. 8d. Sterl.

Item.
That no freeman or woman shall keep anie persone
or persones within their howses secretlie eyther to brewe or
bak, ale. beere. breade, or suche lyke, other than suche as be
or
free.
The
forfeit
said ale, beere. breade, or suche lyke. to be forfeyt,

to paye 75. 8d. Sterl. everie tyme so
and the howseholder

1
offendinge.
1
Sir Henry Sidney was son of Sir William Sidney, and father of
Sir Philip
king Henry VIII. was his godfather, and Edward VI. his
writing
companion. He was a great favourite with queen Elizabeth
:
Campion
usually begins with "most dean- Mistres."
informs us that he was "a great searcher and preserver of Antiquities.""
Cox's History of Ireland. Letters of Sir Henry Sidney.
to
her,
he
379
No. II.
Thomas Smyth. Ma\
Petition against
2gth,
1573.
most humble wyse complayning Sheweth unto your

good Lordships your supplicants the maior of the pore and
desolate Towne of Knockfergus. that whereas your said
supplicants have of late greatly decayed by manes of the
Rebellione rownde about them made and are become So pore
In
as the third parte of the said Towne is ruynate

May it please
your Lordships that notwithstanding your suppliacants have
bycome (in consideration of their povertie and bordering among
:
the enemies) to utter their
Wynes aqua vita

and suche lyke merchandyze to any as well
cloth saffron Salt

rebell as other, in
now since Mr. Thomas Smythe's repayre hither,

he hath stopped and abarred your sayd supplicants of their
whole trade and occupying into the Contry. not suffering them
to utter their Wares, but if they So doe doth forfect the same,
wherby they are dryven unto suche skarcety of victualls and
other necessaries, as they have not whenvith to maynteyne themthe Contry
and
selves
1
daye
7th
their familyes : and further the said

of this instant Aprill demanded
Mr. Smyth the

of your sayd
supplicants the maior and his Brethern to lend unto him, for the
furnishing of his Soldiers the some of fortie pounds, the which
when they answered

consideration that he
they had not to lend, But (in

a subject of our Soverigne Ladie the
and being herein so desolate a place) did
that
is
Queen's majestie,
graunt to lend unto him twentie hogsheds of barley and ten
hogsheds of malt for his Soldiers victualing, untille he colde
make better provision, the which is more than your supplicants
are well able to doe, they being in suche great skarcety themnotwithstanding the said Mr. Smyth presently upon the
denyall of the sayd mony. did by his Soldiers forceably fetch
all your supplicants kyne out of the felds and drave them into
selves
the abbeye where he kept them, and then sounded his Drome
through the Towne with these words, all Soldiers Serving under
the Collonell
to the abbye to receve your shares of the
repayer
praye; and part of the kyne were devided that night, everie
three Soldiers having two kyne, and the next morning your said
wold
supplicants seeing their kyne redie to be kylled (which
have been the undoing of all the pore people), did demand of
the snvd Mr. Smvth to have the kvne restored, the which he
not grant unless your supplicants wold lend him some

monie, so that in the ende they were fayne to let him have
foure pence out of everie co\ve, 20 hogsheds of barley, and 10
Avoid
hogsheds of malt, which notwithstanding, your supplicants are

still threatened that this porson being spent the soldiers will
take such small store of victual Is as your supplicants have in
their
from
howsen
which
them,
if
shall
they
doe.
your
supplicants must be dryven to leave this hir Highness Towne

the which they have so long defended, which their. most lenientable case they open to your good Lordships, beseeching your
Lordships that redresse herein maye be had, so as this hir

majesties Towne may not be utterly overthrowne, being without
redress at the brink of decay.
Answer.
IT. l-'itzivllliam
T rustic
By
and wellbeloved
the L. Dcputic
We
and Counsdl.
lêfore the
greet you
receipt of your letters of the 29th of the last month, wherein
well,
you againe complaine of the misusage towards you of Thomas

Smyth (wherof we are sorrie to heare). we have addressed
Captain Piers to retorn unto you with fiftie footmen for your
better aide and defence, whoe long ere this we well hope hathe
arrived theare, and as we wrote by him in our letters unto you.
shortlie there shall another
compayne of a hundrethe Souldiers

be sent thither for a further supplie to your helpe, and doe
meane by any weies els that we maie. to further you the best we
in
and uppon Thomas Smyths repaire hither which we looke
:
for shortlie he shall be questioned with tuching the matters of

his factes wherewith you charge him
and as uppon his answere
:
we
shall
discerne
him
to
deserve
we meane
reproof,
so
to
he shall be admonyshed throughe his

correction to shonne any the like doeings henceforth; and shall
deale with him likewise to see to the correction of his men
which mysused you the Sheriff's there, as you have advertised
proscede with him,
as
and so doe, bidd you heartlie well

6th of June 1573.
Adam Dublin custos Sigilli.
To
our loving freends the Maior

_
and the rest of his brethren of
_
r ^
the Corporacon of Carnckfergus.
'
from Dublin
to fare
Robert Dvllon
v^-n
Lucas Dillon.
T
iV'\
33
No.
An
order from Sr.
III.
Henry Bagenall &c.
for restulion of the
Prayes.
The answer and
order taken tuching the peticion exhibited by

the maior and corporacon of Karigfergus as well against
Hugh M'Phelemy O'Neill as others Newry 26th March
1583Firste for the Prey by Hugh M'Phelemy (O'Neill), it is

20 of
complayned there doth remaine twenty fower cowes.
the said
logh-tavy for the restytucon of the rest of the Prey
the
as
a
for a
of
the
distress
taking
Hugh justifieth
Preys
but for that it is for;
challenge he had to the corporacon
:
bidden by the articles of the Peace that none should for any
chalenge distrayne, but leave the same to the determynnacon of
the commissioners, and that also in another article in the sem
peace concluded that for such and other like wrongfull taking
of goodes. upon the restytucon thereof the logli-lavy to be taken
and receaved of the goodes of the taker, and not any part of
the goods of the owner of them so taken, yt is therefore ordered
that the kyne to be restored of such somes of mony and other
they have prayed for logli-tavy and the same
taken by the maior of Carigfergus (for so hath
to
be
prooffe
Hugh M'Phelomy consented) and the prooffe so receaved and
that
things
the substance of their chalenges known wee order the said Hugh
to satisfye the said somes so proved by the firste of Maye next.
Item
wher it is complayned that the capten of Kilulta
took from the said towne three schore kine wrongfully without
any cause, the agent for the said Capten confesseth the taking
the reste. and justifyeth the taking as a
of 30 and
denyeth
distresse, for that certen
made by
of a Spoyle
said capten
nucthoryty
former
is
of the said Towne were at the taking

Brian M'Phelomy's sones upon the
Sr.
- for that the taking of other distresses without

as more at lerdge appeareth in the
forbiden.
article,
it
is
ordered the number of the kyne confessed

and for the
to be restored or the vallue as shal be proved;
be produced with thir valow. all which prooffs

by the maior of Carigfergus as afore in the
mencioned ; and what shal be proved before him
reste prooffe to
is
to be taken
firste
it
is
firste
article
same to lê
of mave next.
the
satisfied
acording to the prooffe by the
Item The said Inhabitants of Carigfergus complayne that

Donell Gorme M'Donell sone to James M'Donell, the i2th of
from them eight or nine schore Cowes, for that

is proved that the sayd pray was taken by
the said Donell aforesaid (the number of the Cowes not proved
before us) the maior to take the prooffs of the owners for the
nomber, and the valow, whereof we order restytuceon presentlie
this instant tok
k appearath and
after the prooffes so taken.
H. Bagenall.
James Doudall.
Xo. IV.
An
order for the settlement of the differences between the inhabitants, and the constable of the castle, 1591.
W.
Fitzn'illiam
By
the L. Dcpiitic
&
Councdl.
T rustle
and welbeloved wee greete you well Whereas upon

the hearings of sondrie the griefs and complaynts exhibited by
the maior and corporacon of Carickfergus, and Charles Egerton
constable of her majesties castell there, the one against the
other ;
after their severall answeres
put in and further
proceedinge by pleadinges to drawe the cause to Issue, all which

we send you inclosed, we had full hearinge and perusuall of
them
whereupon for the greatest parte we found them to

upon prooffe. which we have thought good to referre to be
taken by you and in that tuchinge the custome of Ingate and
outgate, whereof the said Egerton is to have but two partes of
the Queenes custome. and the said Towne and corporacon the
thirde parte, the same by you to be put in execucion, and you
to see resticucion made of soe muche of the said third parte as
the said Egerton hath taken or delayed from them
where also
to the weaknynge of hir majesties said castell, it was complayned
that the said Charles had filled up the said diches thereof and
severall of the Townsmen, upon his assurance to be freed and
exempted from contrubusian with the Towne, were drawen to
build and dwell upon the said diches. which by us is houlden
and thought as well daingerous for the saftye of the said
:
reste
castell
as hinderfull for the said
Towne:
albeit the
same
in
not denyed by Egerton's answere. yet we requyre you

to take viewe thereof and to certifie what vou shal find therein
sorte
is
383
.am] so lickwise of the hight of
on the key side with prefers
Donge and filth by him raised

and promise of freedome and
ymunity after made (as is said), to such of the Townsmen as

will dwell and buylde on the same ; In both these
besydes your
we require you to take such prooves as the Townsshal produce before you
which together with your owne
retorne beinge delyvered to us we may thereupon take such order
*jwne viewe,
men
.as
shal be mete: having nevertheless alredy ordred that in the

all those tennants (the englishmen of his warde
mean tyme
excepted), shal contribut with the Towne as of right they ought

And tuchinge the grasinge of the 100 cowes free of
to doe;
allowed
grasinge
warders,
we
to
the
said
and his Englishmen

same performed to Egerton
none other, not permittinge him
Egerton
requiree you to see the
and his said warders, and to

under cullor thereof, to torne yt to other gayne or commoditie
In all the rest of theire cawses contayned in the pleadings on
both syds we require you to take such proffes as shal be
produced before you, and to order them yf you cane with
allowans of chardges to that partie whome you shal fynd to be
injured accordinge to your good discreasions, or otherwise
thereof and of all the rest to make relacon to us together with
:
suche
you shal take, the first of the next

whereupon wee may use suche further
proceedinges as shal be agreable to Justice and Eqytie, wherein
we pray you to have speciall care and for your doinge this shal
lie your warrant
Gevin at Dublin the 8th of Maye 1591.
deposicions
micheimes
terme
as
Jo: Armachan.
To our
trustie
and welbeloved the L. Baron Slane,
Sr.
Henry
Bagenall, knight, marshall of Ireland, Sr. Robert Dillon,

knight, chefe Justice of hir majesties courte of comon
Plees, and William Bath esquire second Justice of the
same, and to anv three of them, or two of them.
Xo. V.
Proclamation, by the Governor of Carrickfcrgus.
Whereas by reason of the greate Warres whiche of longe
in thes northeaste partes of Ullster, the
nomaine wealle as well of the Towne of Carickfergus as of
the Contrye neer abowte it. hathe in a maner bene quytte de-
tyme have continewed
384
faced and overthrowne, this Contrye being so dispeepled. as .a
greatte parte thereof lyethe styll waste for lacke of inhabitacon >
and that Peopell lyckwyse whiche be nowe replantinge in the

same by meanes of their lounge discontinewance frome cwiell
Government remaine alltogether ignoraunte of the comon and
general 1 good which wolde arysse unto all persons by mackinge
a dew and ordinary recoresse unto some establyshed markett
whearin they may at one sallfe same tym.e bothe sell and utter
from themsellves any suche comodeties as they have to departte

all. as allso buye and provyde any suche other needfull
withe
things as ther nessesity dothe require ; for redresse whereof, the

Governor of the upper and lower Clandaboyes. the Rowte, the
the
Glynes.
forces
and
and Kyllultogh,
Dufferen
within the
confered
Towne of
uppon
circumstances as unto
this
it
as
also
hir
majesties
Carickfergus, havinge consethred

present matter, and suche other
for this
tyme may be
l>elonginge,
have
thought good to nottefie and publish this resolucon thoughte

mett for this cause as a matter tendinge to the good service of
hir
majestic and the generall proffitte and comedetoy of all

is aforesaid
and whereas heretofore it hathe bene an
sortes as
ordynary cowstome, that the poore husbandman and others

beinge followers unto any Lord or cheffe of a countery, or any
other Gentell of meener quallity have bene subjecte to be
molested and arested. as well ther bodeys as any ther goods for
whom
the Debte of ther Lord or other one
thay wear dependinge
as followers or undertenaunts, whereby it enswed that the greater

partte of ther husbandemen and pore labouringe pepell are put
and doute to be so yll intreated as is aforesaid,

yf thay shoulde mack recorsse to the marckitte it is therefore
by the Governor afforesaid thoughte goode for the avoydinge
of all suche feare and doubte as affor said to give nottise that
in greatte fear
every
mane
that shal
come
to the marckett withe
any comodites
from any kinde of
whome they have
shal passe and repasse
to be solid, shal be proscekted and deffended

debts owing by them or ther Lords under
heretofore lyved, or hereafter
may
lyve.
from fryeday noune till Sonne day at night so long as thay lie
have them sellves orderly accordinge hir majesties good Subjecs.
Chrr.
Xote.
find
The above proclamation
Christopher Carleill
issued about that time.
is
governor in
Carleill.
without date, but as

1592,
it
we
was probably
385
No. VI.
Statuts to be considered of and established by the consente of
the whole assemblie, being the 6th of July, 1601
(viz.)
(The marginal
It
enacted that noe
is
man
having lande or
Howses within this Towne, shal sett or lett anie

'Zfgina'arc'in
the hand-writ- Howse, chamber, or lande to builde Howses on to
tng of -^'f an i e whore or defamed Person in which anie wine.
:
Arthur
Cht-
chickeiter,
as ale,
or
follow:)
Beere, or dishonest order sholde be either kept

soulde, neither shal anie man free or other,
Towne keepe anie whoore

Howse or Taverne:
Howse or lande so abused in
within this
as Taverner,
The owner
either within his
of the
by waile of
shal loose
I
fine to the yearlie
of the Howse or
Towne an ^ owners thereof
think this to the rente

>
of Bawdrie, and
this
manner,
value of
lande to the use of the
to be held as maynteners
not helde worthey to live in the
Towne.
enacted that the maior of the Staple for
is to be established for ever here-
It is
the
tyme being
after master of the Trinitie Yeelde
and merchaunts
of the Towne, for one yeare after he is out of his

mayoralitie of the Staple, and the yeire following
Threshurer soe as after ellecon of the maior, he is
This
is
to
be
one yeere maior of the Towne, Secondlie maior of

ê Staple, thirdlie master of the Trinitie Yeelde and
by the Table
with whom I master of the
companie of merchaunts, and the 4th
shal assent.
Theise offices to
yeare Treasurer o f the Towne
:
succeede for ever to etche person after his ellecon

as before ; excepte by Deathe, or cawse to the
contrarie to be shewed by misdemaneur; and then
newe ellecon whereby the place or

allwaise
be supliede.
maie
places
It is enacted that the maior of the Staple, Mr.
to proceede to a
leave this
the Table.
I
of the Trinitie Yeelde, Thresurer of the Towne,

Sheriffs, and Towne clerke, with 4 men for the
Comons, shal quarterlie take order for the collecteing of all the proffitts belonging to the Towne;
and after the view thereof, and knowe what they
doe arise
warrant
26
to,
to
the maior of the
the
Sherriffes
and
Towne
Town
shal
give
to
Clerke,
3 86
and receave all the somes comprehended,

and the same somes to be presentlie collected by the
Sherriffes and Town Clerke and for that heretafore
the Towne hathe loste manie greate somes by
necligence of the officers from hence forwarde, if
they shal not within the quarter make due collecions
according to the maiors warrant, or shew cawse to
the contrarie by a discharge from the maior, three
aldermen, and four of the Comons, for the tyme
collecte
being, shal be chardged with the maiors warrants

from time to time without remittall.
It is
I
enacted that
all proffitts
of Rente or
fine,
think this a Dutie,
or anie thing whatsoever shal continueallie

re(j owne to an(j for tne benefitte of the Towne;
ecree.
and a booke of accompte to be

of the Trenitie Yeelde; and for
of this Towne is to be accompted
It is enacted that the maior
kepte by the Mr.
Revenue
that the
for as before.
of the
Towne
for
tyme being shal have towards his howse keeping the some of ^20 pr. an. and the custome belonging to this Towne of the Revenue and profthe
sicons
think well
hereof.
well the Rente, Fynes,

upon the merchaunts
as
fitts,
laid
boughte
amount
after
the
date
and newe ympofor all wines
hereof,
To
to the value thereof:
shal
to
yearlie
the ende that
never maior of this towne hereafter for the tyme

being, shal sel either wine, ale, or acqua vitie to
anie straunder or others, either at his Table or in
presence, upon forfeicture of his stipende of
;2o, and to be fyned after his mayltie at the
his
discrecon of the Benche.

It is
enacted that the paiement of the stipents
of the maior,
Sherriffs,
Towne
Clerke,
and
Ser-
geants, the ymposicon newelie to be ymposed, is

to be collected in manner and forme following (viz.)
think this a
good an ibeneficial order for
I
d
mayEten?nce
upon everie Tonne of French wine foure shillings,

.....
Spamshe the tonne six shilling unleaden at the Key
.
of Carigfergus, either by Towne or privott bargaine,

and the wine soe landed to
retayled or soulde
of the general either within the Towne, and

charges.
Governr. of the Forces here,
Goverment of the
within the two
(viz.)
Clandeboyes, the Route and Glines, they shall paie
towards
the
aforesaid
chardges
out
of
etche
hogsheade as before be it more or lesse: and the

said collector! to be made by the Sheriffs and Town
clerke, and the Sherriffs to be accomptaunt for the
same as of the Townes revenue and proffitts, and
to be delivered to the Treasurer quarterlie as the T ,
I refer yt to the
,*
and of everie Towne or pnvatt bargaine of table, and for
rest
.
m
whate, mault, or anie other Graines broucrhte by ? P*rt
/ yt fit to be
i.- iu
L
i.
the person which buyeth the same is to paie fected.
ef-
sea,
towards the making of the key, for everie barrell

or wheate 4D, and for all other sorts of Graine and
maught 2D. the Barrell; and everie barque and
boate not belonging to the Towne shal paie after

the rate of the quantitie one pennie out of everie
Tonne, as often as they shal be occaconed to come
for succor or otherwise into the key.
It is enacted, that every horse,
hackney, coulte, I think well of
th:s articlegarran, mare, cowe, or Hayfer, whiche shal be
soulde or slaghtered within the Towne to be soulde

either within the Liberties or without by a free
butcher or countrie butcher, shall paie by wai of
Toule, towards the reperacons of Gatts and pave-
ments for everie heade 3d. and to him that keeps

the Toule book iD. to be paid by the buyere; and
the same to be collected by one appointed by the
maior
for
delivered
the
to
tyme being,
the
Thresurer,
and by him to be
be
to
accompted
appertayncthe quarterlie as before.

The Sherriffes for the tyme being shal
after this yeare for ther better mentinance the
of Six Pounds
thirtene Shillings 4d.
as
have^ r//iwr
some
Chi,
Chester.
without anie
other fee or Dutie in chardge to the Towne.
The next
article
following
Chichester,
I forther desre
is in
the handwriting of Sir Arthur
and signed by
Mr Maior and
his
name.
the rest to renewe the article
tyme of Mr. maiors former maioraltie

touchinge beddinge to be provided by aldermen, Sheriffes, and
Sheriffes equals, and freemen for entayrtayninge strangers and
such as shal resorte hether.
or order,
made
in the
A rtliur
Chichcstor.
3 88
Remember
to
tak
order
Fery and the wages

of mariners, and how ar
matest to have the Ferying
for the
John Dallway, maior.

Gregory Norton,
Humphrey
Johnson,
William Dobin.
John Savage.
Thomas Vaughan.
Henry Spearpoint.
Thomas Gravott.
Ja. Byrt.
Haper.
Richard Newton
Richard Fath
Jo.
Henry Ockford.
No. VII.
2Oth February 1605, the humble Petition of the agents of
of Carickfargus, in the behalf of that cor-poracon
and the answer thereof.
the
Towne
The answer is given Certaine

(Note.
,.
by the Ld. Defy. Chichester in
-,-,.
Rl
g ht
his own handwriting in the mar-
Greeffes exhibited to the

T
-^
honorable the L. Deputie
,
by Humpherie Johnsonn and

Clement Forde agents for the
Towne of Carickfergus, humblie
gin,asfo'lows:)
praieing your Lordships honorable favor for redresse whereof,

as to your Lordship (upon dewe
examination) shal seme expedient
the 25th Februaire 1605.
This shal not be taken from

the lands of the Towne.
Firste Mr. Moysis Hill provoste

within the government of
ma rshall
Carickfergus came with a warrant

of Sir Foulke Conwais livetenant
Governor of Carrickfergus aforesaid, there to have a Kearne cessed

on the said towne and contie to
attend the Provost marchall, which
is
contrarie to our Charter and
Fredome.
The said Proveste marshall

not meant that the freezd,
men nor such as are settled and di s i re th the bookinge of all the indwell within the Towne showd , , ..
...
,
-IT,
be bookt, but such only as are habitance within the said Towne
It is
Starters from one contrie or master to another, and those only

to the ende that their master or
Landlords may answer

he offends.
if
for
and
h
him for
Countie
that
booked
and threatneth
the
of the in habitance ther
they
are
not
and likewyes
his
with
him
men, am-
mated therbie hath thretnedd

our
hang
ploughe
to
the
at
ploughmen
tayle.
The said marshall hath ar3d,

rested contrie People in the Towne
by his Tipstaffe for privatt debts,
which
is
directly against
charter.
our
IIe
fre-
maye not doe
it is
it
fitt that the conthe tyme being shal

have a fish out of all such boats
,-,
T
r
i
Capt. Roger Langforde as come jnto the harbour to fish>
4th,
Constable of his majesties Castell and to sell the same at the towne
dome and
stable
thought
for
Knockfergus, in manner and

Carrickfergus contrarie to our lorme ot
long tyme continued and
charter and auntient custome of no otherwise,
Nothing is as yet showd by
the place, doth take from the poore
either partie to prove or make
_,.
,
r
Fishers of the Towne the beste
theire c
m es but it
at
good
and principall
custome for
hi<? nnipstipq nsfpll
en, which is rliirectlie contrarie to the fredome
fishe as
]
,
ay
may
be determined by the Judges of
at their next cominge
thither to whom j refer the saai
assizies
granted us by our charter, and we

have formerlie evicted Mr. Egerton
the
in
like
suit
at
the
counsell
table.
5th.
the said
The king's Customer in

Towne hath taken excesse
of customes both
and
Townesmen
from strangers
contrarie
The King's customer and that

Towne are to provide a
of the
to place certayne wher they are to

ak e thd r
met e a " d
nlries
wherebie all tradd is driven

equitie,
u
u Towne
^
within
the liberties of the
.
from the said Towne.
and no one of them to precede
6th, The said customer contrarie without the privitie of the other,
,
,,
,
,
-T.
iL
taking
b such custome as nowe is
to the use
Drugheda and other or of auncient tyme, hath byne
corporacons, dothe keepe the cus- allowable in the kingdome, and
no other
.
tome howse out of the Liberties

of the said Towne, whereby merchaunts have not ther entrese taken
in dewe howres as in other places
is accustomed, of which
they have
often complained.
The Towne having the 3d

7th,
Parte of the Kings custome and a
customer of ther owne to leveie
the same customes. and
make
en-
notwithstandinge the
Kings customer without any notice
tries
thereof,
390
geven unto our officer maketh all
of merchandize, and for
noc
customes compoundeth
the
acquainting him therewith, which
entries
is
both prejudicial! to the
Towne
and the merchaunts strangers

arrive here; whereas yf the
were
officere
made
unto, the matter

derated that the
that
Towne
there-
privie
would be so mo-
strangers should
he bye it as a merchant or have good contentment, and the
freeman it must be accordinge to
Towne be sure of what is dewe
the manner and Rules of the
Towne all which I require to unto them.
have observed.
Lastlie, whereas no man by our
If
Arthur
Chichestor.
except he be free; nor

freeman without the maiors
licence, till the Towne have hadd
the refusall of anie merchandize
there arrivinge can buy to sell againe any such merchandize
yett
charter
anie
customer or his deputie doth

usually buy and sell, with all merthe
chants coming thether, without observinge the good order established, and havinge better menes to
vent the same in the count rie,
hath mutch hindred the poore merchants and other freemen of the
Towne
in ther trade
and
livinge, to
the utter impoverishinge of
many
of them.
of all which wrongs and abuses

wee humblie praie that your Lordship wil be pleased to take notice,
and to give such order for redresse,
that wee be not hereafter molestin such sorte, but by your
Lordships honorable favor wee may
enjoy the benefite of our Charter
ed,
and privileges without disturbance

and also that your Lordship will
:
be favorable unto us tuchinge the
Townes letter diupon your honnor, as well
contents of the
rected
conserninge the abuses offered unus by Moysis Hill, as also
to
touchinge our losses in tyme of

warre: and wee shall daily pray
for longe incresse of honnor unto
your Lordship.
No. VIII.
Treaty with the Scots, Jany. 24th, 1641.
That proviscon of Victuals be
1,
presentlie sent *> C.fergus,
to be sold to our Soldiers at reasonable rates, answerable to
their pay.
That an Order be sent down how they shall be paid

and from whom they may require the same.
3, That they have the Command and keeping of the Town
and Castle of Carrickfergus, with power to them to remain still
within the same, or to enlarge their quarters, and to go abroad
2,
there,
into the Country,
upon such Occasions
as their officers discretion
shall think expedient for the Good of that Kingdom.

And if it
shall be thought fit that any Regiment, or Troops in that
Province shall join with them, that they receive Orders from the
Commander of our
Forces.
That Provisions of Match, Powder and Ball be presently sent to Carrickfergus; and what arms Ammunition, or
Artillery shall be sent over with them from Scotland, that the
like Quantity be sent from hence to Scotland, whensoever the
same shall be demanded.
5th, That a part of the Thirty thousand Pounds of the
4th,
Brotherly Assistance be presently advanced to us, which altho'

a just Proportion to these Men, it will amount but to
Seven thousand five hundred Pounds, yet for the better
in
furthering of the Service, we desire

may stand with your Convenience.
Ten thousand Pounds,
if
it
That they pay which was condescensed unto from the

of
December, be presently advanced to the Eighth of
Eighth
February next, against which time, we are confident they shall
be ready to march.
6th,
392
That a
man
of War, or some Merchants Ships, be sent

Bristol, Westchester, or Dublin, to Lochryan, for a safe
Convay and Guard of the Passage; because they being in
open Boats, may be subject to Inconvenichces from the Enemy,
7th,
from
whose Frigates we hear are towards that Coast.

8th, That the sending over of these Men be without prejudice to the Preceding of the Treaty, which we desire may goon without any delay.
Westm. 24. Jan. 164.1.
Ja. Prymrose.
No. IX.
The Mayor appointed Ca-ptain of Militia, July nth, 1666.

By the Lord Lieutenant General and General Governor of Ireland. To our trusty and well beloved the Mayor of the Town of
Carrickfergus, for the time being.
Ormond.
WE
reposeing speciall trust and confidence as well in the

and circumspection, as in the Loyalty Courage
rare Dilejence
and redyness of you to do his majesty good and lawful service,

have nominated constituted and appointed, and we do by
Vertue of said power and authority unto us given by his
Majesty nominate constitute and appoint you the said Mayor
of said Town of Carrickfegrus. for the time being, to be
Captain of a Company of Foot raised, or to be raised, in the
Town and County of Carrickfergus for his Majesty's service
and the Defence of this Kingdom. Which Company you are
&
to take into your charge and rate as Captain thereof,

duly
to Exercise both Officers and Soldiers in arms and as they
are thereby commanded to obey you as their Captain so you

are likewise to observe and follow such orders and directions as
shall from time to time receive from US or other your
Superior Officer, or Officers, and for so doing this shall be
your sufficient Warrant and Commission in that behalf Given
you
under our hand and seal of Arms at his Majestys Castle of

Dublin the nth day of July 1666, in the i8th year of his Majestys Reign.
G. Lane.
Captain Anthony Hall.
Hugh
Smith,
Towne
Clarke. Ensign.
393
No. X.
Sale of the third
-part of the Customs of this Port to the Crown.

Wentworth.
Whereas, Richard Spearpoint, Mayor of the Corporation
of Knockfergus, Edward Johnson and John Hall, sheriffs of
the said Corporation, and the Burgesses and
Commonality
thereof, have been humble suitors unto US, the Lord Deputy
and others
his Majesty's Committees for his Highnessess Revenues, to except and take from them, for and to the
USE
of
most excellent Majesty, our Sovereign Lord Charles,

by the Grace of God, of England, Scotland, France and Ireland, King, Defender of the Faith, &c. his Heirs and Suchis
a good and
form of Law, of the
ressors,
sufficient
surrender to be made, in due
third part of all and singular the Customs, as well great as small, to be divided into three Parts,
and all and singular sums of Money, to them due and payable, for and concerning the Customs of any Wares, Merchandize whatsoever, from time to time, brought or carried
into the Port of Knockfergus, aforesaid, or into any other
Port, Bay, or Creek, belonging or adjacent to the said town

of Knockfergus, and being betwixt the Sound of Fairforeland in the County of Antrim, and the Beerlooms in the
County of Down, and of, for or concerning the Customs of all
Wares, and Merchandize whatsoever, from time to time, Shipped, Laden or exported, or to be shipped Laden or Exported,
of from or out of the said Port or Haven of Knockfergus, or
of or out of any other Harbour, Bay, Creek, or any other place
within the Sound of Fairforeland, and Beerhouse aforesaid,
or of any one or any of them.
And that in consideration of
the Lord Deputy and
the said surrender, so to be made,
WE
Council! would be pleased that the Mayor, Sheriffs, Burgesses,

and Commonality of Knockfergus, aforesaid, might have and
receive of his Majesty the sum of ^3000, to be bestowed
and employed in the purchase of Lands for and to the use and
behoof of them and their successors and to none other USE.
therefore having taken the premises and the long and
WE
Crown by the said Corporation,

and being desireous by all just and honourable ways and means to advance, and augment the public
the said Corporation are conutility, profit and revenues of
And do hereby order and appoint that
tented and pleased.
faithful services done to the
into consideration
394
sum ^3000, shall within two months next, after

made and perfected, be paid unto and dein
the
hands
of Arthur Chichester, Arthur Hill, and
posited
Roger Lyndon, to be by them disposed of and employed
the
said
such
Surrender
and for the use of the said Corporation, entire, the said
shall be disposed of and laid out and employed by the said Mayor, Sheriffs, Burgesses, and Commonality,
or the more part of them, for the buying, purchasing and acquiring lands for and to the use of the said Corporation,
which lands are to be purchased and acquired we do ordain
and require that
be from time to time employed for
the trust and benefit of the said Corporation, without maketo
sum of ^3000
ing any alienation or Estate thereof, other than for the term
of 21 years, and for valuable rents to be reserved to the said
Corporation, Except it be by special licence from the Lord
Deputy, or the other chief Governor or Governors, of this
Kingdom, and Council for the time being. Given at His Majesty's Castle of Dublin, the ist of January, 1637.
Adam
Loftus, chancellor, Adam Loftus,

G. Lowther, Jo. Borlase, Geo. Radcliff,
Ro. Meridith.
XI.
Annals of the County of Antrim Gaol, extracted from the

Records of that County.
August, 1666, an agreement was made between the grand
jury of the county of Antrim and the corporation of Carrickfergus, to keep the court-house and gaol in proper repair,
and find all necessaries for the safety and maintenance of
prisoners, for the sum of ;yo per annum.
From April i4th till September 2gth, 1711, the total ex11 10 5, and
pense of the support of the prisoners was
Befrom January 3d, 1712, till April nth, 1713,
4 16 3.
tween August 1/16, and April 1717, ;io 8: from April i5th,
1718, to the same date in the following year, ,15 7 ij; and
8.
from the i2th April till the 5th August, 1762, only î
From the i3th March, 1813, till 22d March, 1814, the expense amounted to ^1086 16 5; and from the summer assizes
1819,
till
summer
assizes
1820, the
sum of .1960
12 8
was
395
At the sumpresented for the maintenance of the prisoners.

assizes 1821,
1000 was granted to the contractor to provide necessaiies for the prisoners till the following assizes.
mer
From the
.1500 was
2oth
March, 1822, till the iQth March, 1823,

granted to the contractor for a similar purpose.
In the first years just noticed, there is no particular menof weekly allowance made to prisoners; but in 1747, we
find those confined on criminal charges receiving ten pence
tion
halfpenny per week. If convicted, their allowance was usually

reduced to six pence or seven pence, and in some cases to
three
pence or four pence weekly.
no friends to
assist in their support,
The
prisoners
who had
solicited charity
by susIn 1757, the

pending a hat or small bag from a window.
weekly allowance to prisoners was augmented to fourteen
At present each pripence, which rate continued many years.
soner receives a pint of new milk daily; 5^ pounds oatmeal,
and two stone weight of potatoes weekly, with salt, soap, and
coals; and fresh straw once in each month.
They are also
furnished with blankets, and wearing clothes.
Formerly there were few persons confined in this prison
compared with those at present, even taking into account the
low state of the population
at that period.
There
is,
however,
a great decrease in barbarous crimes, and in the increase of priIn 1729, there were 70
soners is confined to minor offences.
were pirates; and in

jail, 28 of whom
1748 there were 59 prisoners.
April, 1760, there were no
criminals in this prison, and from the i7th April till the i5th
June, 1762, only one prisoner, Dennis Homer, a noted thief.
From October i3th, 1764, till February, 1765, there was but
one prisoner, Isabel Leviston, a convict. At Lent assizes that
persons confined in
year, there
was no criminal
trial.
In the spring of 1772, there were 64 prisoners on the

criminal calendar of the county, mostly charged with being of
In September, 1783,
the association called Hearts of Steel.
At lent assizes, 1792,

there were only 19 persons for trial.
there were 36 persons for trial, charged with the following
2 for murder, 10 felony, 2 highway robbery, 4 utSummer
base
coin, 5 rescue, 7 assault, and i for riot.
tering
calenassizes, 1816, there were 72 prisoners on the criminal
dar, 5 of whom were sentenced to be hanged, 9 transported,
crimes:
March, 1817, there were 142

whipped, and 9 imprisoned.
were sentenced to be exe2
whom
of
for
trial,
prisoners
2
39 6
and 18 transported; and
cuted,
at
the
summer
assizes,
same
year, 176 for trial, being the greatest number at any period.
Five of these were sentenced to be hanged, 20 transported,
and 30 imprisoned; three of those sentenced to be transported,
and four of the latter, were females. In the prison at the same
time were also 64 debtors, and 94 others convicted and deLent assizes, 1818, there were
whom were sentenced to be executed for the following crimes
2 for horse-stealing, i cowtained under various charges.
97 prisoners for trial, 13 of
highway robbery, 2 for passing altered

bank notes, i for forgery, and i for a rape. In July same year,
there were 64 prisoners on the criminal calendar, 13 of whom
stealing, 4 burglary, 2
were charged with murder, 16 with different
stealings,
with
One of these was sentenced

burglary, and i with forgery.
to be hanged, 4 to be transported, and 19 to be imprisoned.
Lent assizes, 1819, there were 90 prisoners for trial, 10 of
whom
were females
44 were found guilty, of whom 3
were sentenced to be executed, 9 were ordered to be transAt summer assizes, same
ported, and 20 were imprisoned.
:
4 prisoners received sentence of death, and 6 to be

Spring assizes, 1820, there were 114 persons on
calendar, 99 of whom were males, and 15 females
i
of these prisoners was sentenced to be executed,
and 15 to be transported. At the summer assizes there were
4 prisoners for trial. Lent assizes, 1821, there were 96 persons on the criminal roll of the county, and at the summer
assizes 93.
In the Spring of 1823, 36 prisoners were on the
criminal calendar, 26 of whom were convicted, and 7 of them
year,
transported.
the criminal
:
received sentence of death.
From
April 1747, till August 1/71, 56 convicts were transBetween

from hence, three of whom were females.
March 1797, and May 1819, 32 persons have been executed,
ported
viz.
for murder,
burglary,
conspiracy to murder, 3
high treason, 2 ; highway robbery, 2

From May, 1818,
forgery, i; administering unlawful oaths, i.
till January, 1823, 57 persons were sent off from this prison
rape,
parricide,
At spring assifor transportation, 17 of whom were females.

1823, there were 22 males and 4 females under rule of
zes,
transportation.
Until 1720, there
is no mention of any salary to the gaoler;

but in that year his annual salary was fixed at
10, "pursuant to the Statute."
He had liberty to sell spirits. There
397
no notice of
either chaplain, inspector or doctor,
nor even
In 1747, an inspector is mentioned, (Rev.
Thomas Finlay) who was also chaplain; for both of those offices he received
10 per annum.
An apothecary occasion-
is
of an apothecary.
attended the prison about this time.
ally
In 1720, the yearly salary of the treasurer of the county of

Antrim (James Willson,) was
20, for which he appears to have
transacted nearly all the county business at assizes and sessions,
as now done by the treasurer, secretary of the grand jury,
his assistants,
and the clerk of the
now worth
The
peace.
office
of trea-
per annum; that of the secretary of the grand jury upwards of ^200 the salary and fees
received by the clerk of the peace for the year 1822, appear
by the grand warrant of that year to have amounted to .956
The following is a correct statement of the expenses consurer
is
nearly
^400
To the contractor, ^1550;

nected with the prison in 1822.
to the three chaplains, ^120; inspector, .100; surgeon, ^40;
6; jailor, ^100; to same to pay assistants^
apothecary, ^57
same for fees at sessions, ^4 3 8; do. at assizes,

school\ i 6 8 to same for prisoners convicted at do. ^57 ;
work
and
to
done,
46
9 3;
master,
carpenter
25 ;*
glazing
11 3 i; smith work, ^30 8 2; candles, ,9cooper work,
;
17
8;
to
total,
^2303!!
Since this year, when the prisoners belonging toAntrim Jail,

Carrickfergus were first confined in the County of
for every 365 days' maintento the said
was
1826.
;i3
county
paid
ance of each prisoner, and an annual salary of
20 yearly to the inspector of prisons.
jailor, and
20 to the
The gaol school was established in March, 1818, by Samuel

M.D. then inspector and physician of the prison. For some
In September a regular committee was
time he was its sole support.
1
Allen, esq.
formed
to
arrange
its
concerns, consisting of the inspector, chaplains
and several gentlemen of the town and neighbourhood.

From the formation of the school till the first of September 1821,
of the gaol
date of the last report published)
it
appears that 793 Pf' 50
"^
considerab
had attended the school, and received instruction; a very
have
who
Males
number of whom commenced in the alphabet.
(the
attended since the commencement, 910; females, 126: total, 1030.

who attended, an appeal was
expenses increasing with the number
Recently,
made to the public for aid, and liberal assistance obtained
20 per annum towards the masl
the grand jury have granted
See New Appendix.
salary.
No. XII.
An
extract
from
the Will of
Henry
Gill,
with the -present state
of his Charity.
"
AND
all
the Rest and Residue of
my
Real and Personal
Estate whatsoever, or wheresoever, I give and demise in trust to

the Persons hereinafter mentioned Trustees, and their Successors
Trustees to be by them and their Successors Trustees applied

to the use and uses hereafter mentioned
that is to say, for
the annual support and maintenance for Ever of Fourteen Aged
Men Decayed in their Circumstances, and that are not able to
get
a maintenance to themselves, and that have been either

in or inhabitants of the Town and Parish of Carrick-
Born
from
fergus,
their Youth.
AND
it is
my
will
and
desire as also
request to the present Trustees, and also their Successors

Trustees, that none be admitted to this Charity now nor any
my
time to come but such
and
ful Industrious
men
as while they were able were Carediligent in following their several Trades
occupations or Callings and were not inclined or given to Idleness

or Drunkenness in their Youthful days, or at any time after,
and that were remarkable for their Innoffensiveness and good
behaviour, and that did not at any time from Malicious Wickedness injure their Neighbours, or any other, in their Characters
or
Properties.
common beggars
AND
it
is
my
asking alms from
desire
House
and
will
that
no
to House, be admit-
ted to the said Charity.

AND in case of the removal or death of any of the above
mentioned Trustees, the remaining Trustees, or any three of
them, shall have power to elect or choose one or more in the

place or stead of those Trustees removed or dead, to make
and continue the number of Trustees above mentioned for

ever.
No
less
than three Trustees to admit any to the above
Charity."
Original Trustees
George Spaight, Henry Ellis, sen., Archibald Edmonston, Comvay Richard Dobbs, Richard Fletcher,
and Marriot Dalway.

Present
Trustees
Henry Clements
Ellis,
Rev.
Richard
Dobbs, Rev. Robert D. D. Wilson, Comvay Edward Dobbs,

Richard Dobbs, Thomas B. Adair, and Wm. D. Burleigh.
State of the Charity, 1823.
Lower Altavady,
in the liberties of Carrickfergus, let
on a
399
lease to Nat.
256
Cameron, for 31 years from February 1819,
per acre,
at
^55
3 4}.
Upper Altavady, in the liberties of Carrickfergus, let on a
lease to William Eskine, for 31 years, at
i
2 9 per acre,
26 1 6 4.
Parks near the town of Carrickfergus, let on a lease to

Robert Bashford, for 31 years from February, 1819, at
4.
52 16 n.
plot of ground near the town of Carrickfergus,
will to Mrs. Hilditch, at
$ per annum.
per acre,
A
let
let
at
house on the south side of High-street, Carrickfergus,

lease for 31 years to Mrs. Craig,
14.
tenement near Quay gate, let on a lease for 31 years to
on a
C. Ellis, esq.
^1500 lent to
Henry
14 ij.
Henry
C.
Ellis,
esq.
interest
per
annum
9-
^900
lent to the
.200
in the
Rev. Richard Dobbs, interest per ann.
Northern Bank, Belfast,

^288 10 9.
interest per
annum
Total produce,
6.
The property of this Charity produces at the present time,

1901, an income of about ^300, which is almost double what
the yearly produce was at the time of the bequest.
The entire income is applied by the trustees in accordance

with the terms of the will of the donor; but as the Charity
is a private one, no accounts are published.
Trustees,
A.R.H.A.
1909
Wm.
Wm.
Alexander Miscampbell, Esq.
Monday
in April
Gorman,
A. Woodside, J.P.
;
J.P.
Henry
S.
I.
James Boyd, Esq.
P.
Close,
Johns, J.P.;
Meets
first
and October.
No. XIIT.
A
Jury
paper formerly presented to each Quarter Sessions Grand

from which this was copied was dated October i8th,
that
j6g2.
First, to inquire whether there be any that hath imagined
the death destruction or deposing our Soverign the Lord King,
the young prince, or any of his Majesties ofspring, or any
that
hath counterfeited his
Currant
in
Majesties
Coyne, or
any
Kingdom, or hath counterfeited
this
the
CoyneGreat
Seal, or any the Seals of the four Courts, or that hath Intended the Killing the Lord Deputy of this Kingdome, or any of
his Majesties Councell or Judges Sitting in Commission, if
there be any Such they are to be presented.
Whether there be any persons that hath Maliciously either

Sett forth or Spoken in contempt of the
Religion now used and Established in the Church of this
2,
in print or writing
Kingdom.
3, Whether
there be
any person or persons that doth teach

is allowed by Gods laws,
his Majesties authority and Book of Common Prayer.
4, Whether there be any within this County that hath or
doth Receive any Bulls from Rome for the authorising him or
them to teach preach or Sett forth, by way of authority of
or preach any other doctrine than
Rome, or the Romish Religion.

Whether any person or persons hath Secretly or MaSpoken Blasphemy against the Receiving or adliciously
ministering the Holey and Blessed Sacrament.
6, Whether there be any Semenary, priests, Jesuits, or fryars maintained within this County, and the maintainers and
the Bishop of
5,
Releivers of them.
7, Whether there be any that denys the Kings authority
and Supremacy, or doe maintain the authority of the Bishop of
Rome.
8, To Enquire of all Sortes of fellonys and petty Larceny.
9, And also all Evedroppers, Idle and Loitering persons, or
of all others that hath or doth penetrate or any way offend
or trespass against his Majestys Laws; or of all that hath
the Kings peace, or have forfeyted any Recogneby keeping of ale Houses or Victualling.
10, To enquire of all Wauffs, Strays, felons, and fugative
goods, and Chattells.
n, Whether any have refused to appear before the Mayor
broken
zances,
upon Lawfull warning.

12, Whether any have Rescued either pawn, pledge, or prisoner, from any officer or if any officer have taken any pawn
pledge or prisoner.
13,
Whether any have Sold any Wine,
Clouth, or other commodities without Licence.
Silk,
Saffron,
14, If any have used the goods Merchandize of any other

person which are not free, under collour to be his owne without
the Licence of the Mayor.
any freeman hath gone abourd a Shipp, Barque, or

Bottom to forestall or Ingross any goods without
Licence, and before the Town hath denyd the Bargaine.
1 6, If
any hath Committed either frey Battery or Blood15, If
other
shed.
17, If any
to be his own.
1
8,
have entered any foreigners goods under colour
If any have Committed any frey or quarral where by
a tumult might
arise.
to be of an inquest or agreement
betwixt parties.
20, If any have Slandered his Neighbour wrongfully.
21, If any have used the Mayor or other officers with any
19, If
any have Refused
unreverend words or deeds in doing Lawfully their Offices.

22, If any officer have been abstent above ten days without
Licence.
23, If any freeman hath been abstent above a year and a
day, and hath not paid his Share of all assessments and other
taxations.
24, If
any have made any unreverend noise
in the Court,
or presence of the Mayor.

25, Whether there be any Scolds which have offended and
were not punished for their offences.
26, If any have Refused to send their Boats or men to
the Townes work being once warned.
27, Whether all persons Selling Beer ale or other Liquors
doe Sell with Lawfull Sealed measures.

28, Whether the Inhabitants of this Towne doe not every
Saturday Secure the Channells and Sweep the Streets before
their Houses and Lands.
29,
Whether any goe
into
the Country to buy corn or
meal.
within
30, Whether any have left either durt or Rubbage
the Key. in the Church yard, or any of the Towne gates.
which are ordaind
31, Whether the aldermen or burgesses
to have and wear gowns, have upon every Sundays and Holyassemblies or at
days in the Church and the Court upon the
other times of meeting, in the said Court, worne their gownes
or not.
27
402
32,
If any have been
admitted
free
which cant speak
English.
33, If any of the freemen did not attend the mayor to
Church every Sunday.
34, If any have taken the timber or other materials appointed for building the Church, Towne Walls, or Key, or other
generall work whatsoever belonging to the Towne.
35, If any freeman at a freemans Sute hath been arrested
from St. Thomas Day until the 12 day.
any freeman or his wife have not good English.

any have Spoken any Irish in the Court in the presence of the mayor, unless he were commanded by the mayor
36, If
37, If
to Interperate.
38, If
any keep any Geese
in the Streets.
39, If any keep any Cows, Calves, Sheep or Goats, either

Standing in the Streets, Church-yard, or at the Strand within
the Key.
40, If any do keep or maintaine any inmate Strangers,
Beggars, or Runagate persons.
41, If any keep any Swine, within the Towne, which goe
or pass through the Streets, or any other forbiden place and
especially unringed.
42, Whether the fishers doe usually bring their fish to the
markett to be Sold or not, or whether any hath abused them
by the way by taking their fish from them violently.

43, Whether any have Sold any Liquor in time of devine
Service or Sermon.
44, If any Butcher hath Sold any Cattle quick or Salted,
or any meate to be Slaughtered to the intent to sell the same
again.
45, Whether any Loader or Lauboureer have taken above a
halfpenny for every hoggshed either of water or any other
Commodities to or from the Key.
46, If any Sailer have taken above 2d. Sterling with meat
and Drink competent for every time goeing to the Wood, and
27d. Sterling with meat and drink for going to the Whitehead.
47, Whether the Church Wardens doe keep a true and
weekly note of all such persons as dos defyle the Church Yard.
48, If any that is not free have made any Mault unless it
be for the use of Freemen.
49, If any Killns be kept within the walls or within twenty
perches of the Mills on the outside.
50, Whether the deputy Aldermen have weekly every Monday or Tuesday geven or delivered to the aldermen a true and
perfect note of all such persons, as well of women as of men,

as doe not come usually to the Church to hear Service and
Sermon.
51, Whether any have made any pound Breach or Rescue
of Cattle or deverted any Water Course out of its Usuall and
Antient course or Currant, or hath altered any Antient mare
or mark to the Hurtt or prejudice of his Neighbour.
52, Whether all such as are Licencd to sell wine have
hanged out wine hoops before their Sellars or houses or not.
53, If any have laid any Clay or temper or made any mortar, or doe keep or lay any timber, or other materials in the
Street before their Houses or land.
54, Whether all those which are to be Licencd to Sell and
retail
Beer or ale or to keep victualing houses, have provided

with Sufficient and decent Signes, to be either
themselves
hanged before their Houses or on poasts before their Houses

for the beautifying and gracing the Towne.
55, Whether every Alderman hath a ladder in his house of
twenty foot in length, and every two freemen have a ladder of
the same length, for the preservation of the Towne from fier
and Burning.
56, Whether any Millar or Loader have stolen or after any
sort embezlled or Spoiled any corn committed to his or their
charge, or Custody or have taken /or Toull over and above
the twentieth part of any corn or graine, for grinding the
same and for carrieing of the same, to and from the Milne.
No. XIV.
Sundry Papers concerning
the Rectory of Carrickfergus.
Edward Edgworth,
Clerk, professor of Divinity to all Christian people that shall hear or read these presents Greeting in
our Lord God everlasting. Whereas the Maior, and Bvrgesses
Towne of Cragfergus have of their own free motion

me vnder the Common Seal of their Towne vnto the
and Parsonage of the said Towne of Cragfergus which
of the
Presented
Hectorie
has been long void and in their gift. Know yov that I the said
Edward in consideration of their friendly dealing herein do by
and
these
faithfvlly Promise vnto the said Maior
presents
I shal be Parson and Incvmbent
Bvrgesses, that So long as
44
thereof
will
either
thereof, or else in
Same
my
in my own person discharge the Dvty

absence svbstitvte and leave for me in the
svche a svfficient minister as shal be avthorised to minister
the Sacraments and fvlly and wholly to do svch things as to a

minister of the Gospell appertaineth.
In witness Whereof I
have herevnto svbscribed my name the seventh day of Septem-
ber 1590, and in the 32 (seconde) yeere of the Raigne of ovr

Soveraigne Ladye Elizabeth Qveene of Englande, France and
Irelande, Defender of the Faith, &c.
Edward
Commission for the
assisting of
Ederworth.
Mr. Edgeworth. Preacher.
1590.
W. Fitzwilliam.
By the L. Deputie.
Trustie and welbeloved wee grete you well
Having sent
thither our wel beloved Mr. Edgworthe, Preacher as custos of
sees of Downe and Conor, not doubting but he will
discharge it sufficientlie to Gods glorie and furtherance of his
churche, extivning of sinne and vice, and planting of true
Religion & vertue, wee wold there sholde be no slacknes in you,
those
in countenancing him in that Function, or in asisting

him by your auctoritie against open and obstinate offenders,
whome no good exortacon in publicke or private can reclaime
from their wickednesse ; wherein we wold have you neverthelesse
as we doubte not but you will, precede with temperance and
either
good discreacon as fit is with suche a people so long misled in

and so hoping that this short
looseness and impunitie;
admonicion will suffize to the furtherance of so godle a worke.
and so pleasinge unto God, we bid you farewell Given at Kilmainham the i9th of September 1590.
To our trustie and welbeloved the Governor of the
forces at Carigfergus, and to the maior and Burgesses of the same Towne.
To the Right Revd. father in God Henry by the Grace of

God, Lord Arch Bishop of Armagh, and Primate and metroWe your honours most humble Serpolitan of all Ireland.
vants, Humphrey Johnston, maior of the Towne of Carickwith all
fergus, and the Commons and Burgesses of the same,
1
In
parish
the above Edgvvorth bishop

yet he continued to hold the Rectory of this
Ware's
his death in 1595.
Bishops.
1503,
of Do\vn
till
Queen Elizabeth appointed
and Connor
due Reverance do wish you health and honour, we nominate

and present unto your fatherly Institution our welbeloved in
Christ, Hugh Griffeth, Clerk, unto the Rectory and parsonage
of the parish Church of St. Nicholas being now voyd by the
natural
deceasse of
therein,
likewise
the same
Hugh
Doctor John
Charlton,
Incumbent 1
late
to vouchsafe to admit
humbly beseeching you
unto the said Rectory, or parsonage,
Griffeth,
and him also Canonecally and lawfully to Invest Indowe and

Institute within the said parish and Church, together with all
Right and appurtances in any wise thereunto belonging, and
further to insure unto and accomplish in him all other Requisite
therein as well behalfe the pastorial functions and with all
In Faithfull wittness and Testimony hereof we have
favour.
annexed and put hereunto our Seal, Dated at Carickfergus the
2oth of November 1599 (ninety nine).
Humphery
No.
Xames
the
of
Those marked
(*)
Johnston.
XV.
Aldermen and Burgesses, with

and time of being made (1822).
have no property whatever within
their
residence
this corporation.
ALDERMEN.
Ormeau,
Sir Arthur Chichester, bart.*
Lord Blaney,
Thomas
B.
Made an Alderman.
Residence.
.Y fl tut".
Marquis of Donegal!,
Henry C. Ellis,
Adair,*
Alexander Gunning,
Rev. Richard Dobbs,
Carrickfergus,
Carrickfergus,
Thomas
Thomas Verner,*
Belfast,
Belfast,
Belfast,
Rev. Samuel Smyth,*
Carnmoney,
Lord Belfast
In the
L. Stewart,
George Bristow,*
Sir Stephen
May, bart.*
Hussars,
Belfast,
Rev. George Macartney,*

David Gordon,*
Cortland M. Skinner,*
i
Yacancv.
Antrim,
Summerfield,
Belfast,
In England,
Lisburn,
Kingsmill,*
RPV. Snowden Cupples
Hon. John Jocelyn,*
James Craig,
Scoutbush,
Richard Dobbs,*
Belfast,
in
He was
60 1
also bishop of
Dundalk,
Down and
Apr.
Sep.
Jan.
Jan.
Sep.
Sep.
Sep.
Sep.
17,
i.
i,
22,
22,
1814.
1820.
1X20.
4,
4,
29,
29,
26,
26,
jn.
If.
1821.
i
1822.
Made
BURGESSES.
R.
Sir
Aug.
Aug.
Aug.
June
Feb.
loth
1/92.
1792.
1801.
30, 1802.
30, 1802.
30, 1802.
Sep. 17,
Sep. 18,
Sep. 11,
Prospect,
Castle Carey,
Castle Blanev,
In England,
Connor.
a Burgess.
Sep. 24, i
Nov.
29,
I'
Sep. 12,
Sep. 27,
Nov.
1804.
Ware
29,
1802.
says he died
406
Henry Adair,*
John Campbell,
'Ihomas Millar,
Langford Heyland,*
Hugh Kennedy,*
Rev. John Dobbs,
Daniel Gunning,*
James A. Farrell,*
Arthur
Rev.
Loughanmoro,
Sep.
Willpwfield,
Carrickfergus,
In France,
Cultra,
Oakfield,
Aug.
Belfast,
Maheramorne,
Macartney,*
James Owens,*
John M'Cance,*
Rev. Edward Chichester,*
Belfast,
Holestone,
Peter Kirk,
Suffolk,
Culdaff,
Thornfield,
Marriot Dalway.
Lord Edward Chichester,*
Ormeau,
Joseph Macartney,*
Andrew Alexander,
2 Vacancies.
Bellahill,
Belfast,
Belfast,
15,
27,
Feb. 24,
Feb. 24,
Feb. 24,
Feb. 24,
Sep.
Sep.
16,
Dec.
Jan.
Feb.
Feb.
10,
Sep.
Sep.
Sep.
Sep.
Sep.
29,
26,
26,
26,
26,
16,
4,
8,
8,
1806
1808.
1812.
1812.
1812.
1812.
1816.
1816.
1816.
1820.
1820.
1820.
1821.
1822.
1822.
1822.
1822.
No. XVI.
Ancient By-laws.
Court it was ordered by Mr. Maior &
Sheriffes with the hole Consent of the Aldermen, Burgioses &
Cominality, that all Tiplers in this Towne which have licence
June 1569, In
this
to Sell ale or beere or bread, Showd have free liberty So to doe

Provided always that every of the Sayd Tiplers Shall find in
:
every of their howsen tow beds for the lodging of Strangers,

or any Suche as Shall be appointed by Mr. Maior or Sheriffes
to be lodged.
And that every of them Shall erect a Stable
fowre horses, and that they Shall

Maior Shall appoint for their
that they Shal paie Scott 6
Lott, as
Sufficient for the Stabling of

paie any Such fine as Mr.
Tipling.
And
from time
to time Shal fall out to their Share.
lastlie
Court it was ordered that whereas John Whyt had

freedome of this Towne for his nonresidence That he
was fined by the sayd Court in the Some of forty Shils. curraiit
money of Englande That whereas he willingly payd & was
receyved againe to the f redome & liberty of this Towne.
June 1571, In this Court it was ordered, for that the maiors
Sending his officers to warne as well the Husbandmen or
Laborers as also ther Garrons to be in redinesse for the Service
of hir Majestye, that the Sayd husbandmen for fliing away
should pave for the want of everie Garron five Shills. currant
mony of Englande, and for fliing away of every such husbandIn
this
lost his
man
or laborer Twelve pence Sterl.g

February 1574, whereas ill measures of ale was found within this Towne to the great annoyance of the Poore & displeasing
407
of God,
it
is
ordered that the Sayd fault should be corrected
with punishment according, that

comitted in ill measure by anie
Ster.g
&
is
to
man
Say for the
first
fault
paie therefore izD.

the ale So complayned of, and the Second time that
Should therein offend to paie 5 Sh.g Sterl.g
any man
the ale complayned
to
&
and the third time the hole brewing or

the value thereof, the one half of the Sayd forfaytes So taken
to belong to the maior for the time being, and the other halfe
of,
thereof
to apertayne to his Substitute apointed under him,

which is apointed to Seale the Sayd Cannes & look to the
measures thereof.
July 1 2th, 1574, ordered that the Townsmen for the strength-
ening of the Watche, Shal from henceforthe find five men to

the Stand & two freemen to the Search, & that everie howse
within the Towne, Shal by the owner thereof be aunswerable to
Sayd watch whether they be in paie or not. And also that

no man within this Towne Shal after the Bell ringing be out of
his howse, and yf anie manner of person Shal be found by the
Watch to be abroad after the bell rings, then it is ordered that
the
the
Watch Shal apprehend them.
And
yf they be
men of
the
Towne
to bring them to the officers of the Towne, and yf the

be of the Garryson to bring them to the Marschialls Officers.
September, 1574, ordered, that whereas Francis Turner did

most Slanderously use this undecent wordes following viz.
"
Parson Darsye made a Sermon to his Parishioners & cryed
thrice (Soho), which he Sayd did Sygnifye I have found, And
So Sayd he a Sort of Knaves I have found you, & So I will
&
"
for
leave you, and So will I sell my howse
goe my wayes ;
Francis
the
that
it
was
ordered
wherof
the punyshment
Sayd
Shal openly before the Maior & Aldermen of this Towne Say
"
Mr. Maior & the
upon his knee kneeling viz.
rest of the aldermen I have Slandred your worshipps & for the
Same I ask God and your worshipps all forgivenes most
Francis Shal be committed
hartely;" And also that the Sayd
to the Marshialls Ward & ther remayne in bolts, So long as it
Shall please the maior and Generall.
thes wordes
SerRalph Crawly, for breaking Owen Duff's head, being

Court, condemned to paie
hole
and
maior
the
was
by
geant,
and the bludshedds to the
twenty Sh. Sterl. to the Towne,
Sherryffes.
Dudlie Yerworth was

January 1600, In this same Coort
Allso in
chosen and appointed marshall of this Corporation.
408
the foresaid Coort
it was ordered and

agreed that from hencefreeman
him
the office of Provost
any
taking uppon
Marshall of this Garryson heare residente, of what degree Soever he or they be So imployed, shall have no benefit of maricharice as a freeman to by or Sell duringe his contenuance in
the Sayd office of Provost Marshall.
In this same Courte, in the Maioraltie of Mr. John DallAvaye, with the assent, consent, and agreement, of the said
Maior, Bench, & Comons, Moyses Hill, alderman, was ffyne'd
for many his Slanders & missdemers, as well comitted & done
unto Homfrey Johnson, late maior, as also unto the Sayd Mr
Dallwaye nowe maior, for which he was ffyned in the Som of
Six Pounds thirteen Shillings & fower pence, ster. which was
forth
by the sayd Mr Hill Satysfied
&
In the afforesaid assemblie
paid.
it
was
also
condesended and
agreed, that from henceforthe no free mertchant Shal entertaine

any former or Souldier to Sell or retaile any wyne. or any other
merchanrice within the Liberties of this Towne, in paine of

forficher of Tenn Pounds, Ster. & lose of his liberties & Free-
dome.
Augt. 24th 1607, Michaell Whitt, alderman, cominge behynd
John Conlan, & Suddenly Strikinge him in the heade with a
Spade, with which blowe he fell into a Sounde, upon which
was lik to growe a great uproare & bralle betwixt the Warders
of the Castell & Townesmen, had not Mr. Witter, then deputy
maior, pacifyed the Same by comandinge Mr. Whitt to his
Howse, which comand the Sayd Whitt contemptuously disobeyed in goinge abroade at his own pleasure; for all which he
was censured to pay the Some of Twenty Six Shillings & Eight
Pence before he Should departe the Courte Howse.
July 5th. 1624. It was ordered, condesended, and agreede,
by the whole assembly, that all Such of the late made Aldermen
as have not brought in there Plate Avhich they should have
delyvered upon the Table in the Court-House the same daye
they were admitted & Sowrne Aldermen, shall at or before the
first daye of the nexte Assembly after Easter nexte, bringe in
ther Plate, or in deffault thereof that they and every of them
makinge deffault shall then and there tender and delyver in

reddye moneyes without further delaye the Som of Twentye
Nobles, Ster. the peice.
Novr. i pth, 1657, Ordered that noe apprentize now made,
or hearafter to be made, shal Serve lesse than Seven Yeares for
409
freedome as an apprentize before he bee made
free; And
none shal bee admitted unles
they come & first enter their
Indentures in the Town Bookes of Record after three monethes
of their Signeinge of the Said Indentures: for which the
Towne Clerk is to receave three Shillings and foure pence This
act is to remayne and be irrevocable.
his
June 25th Agreed at an Assembly, "that John

M'Knaight and Edward Colburne be disfranchised from their
1725,
for insulting Anthony Horseman,

esq. dep. mayor,
pth instant, in the house of Arthur Hill, and refusing then
to obey his Lawful Comands,
contrary to the oath of a freeman, and the antient Laws of this Corporation."
freedom,
the
No. XVII.
Mayors and
Sheriffs of Carrickfergus*
I 5 2 3.
MAYOKS, YEAR ELECTED.

William Fythe
1568,
Thomas Stephcnson
John Teadc
5^9,
1570,
Rychard Sendall
1571,
Edward Brown
SHERIFFS.
Thos. Unchile
Henry Fythe
These are
Nichola^ Wilis
Nicholas Rogers
John Flude
Wolston Elderton
Cornell O'Kane
'
1572, Captain William Piers
/called Bayliffs
John Teade
William Dobbin
Pattrick Savadge, junior
Wolston Elderton
John Dyer
* The
original spelling has been preserved in this list.
1
Was descended from a family of that name who arrived here
with John De Courcy, about 1182, and who had at one time three
castles within Carrickfergus
vestiges of two of those castles still
remain.
October i2th, 1702, Martha Sendall, Carrickfergus, was
married to Edward Williamson
she is the last person that I find
noticed of that family.
Records of Carrickfergus. Parish Registry.
2
He was a great
Captain William Piers was from Yorkshire.
favourite with Queen Elizabeth, having once saved her from the
fury of her sister, Queen Mary, "by conveying her privately away."
About 1566, Queen Elizabeth snt him to Ireland, and rewarded him
with several grants of lands, amongst which were the Abbey of
Tristernagh, county Westmeath. In 1568, he was governor of Carrickfergus, and seneschal of the county Antrim. It was he, says Hollinshed,
who cut off the head of Shane O'Neill, killed near Cushindun, in this
He died early in 1603, and
year for which he received 1000 marks.
was interred at Carrickfergus. LODGE states in his Peerage, that he
had only one son called Henry, who embraced the Roman Catholic
faith.
This is evidently an error, as William Piers, jun., appears in
our list of mayors.
He had also two daughters. About 1620, some
persons of this family removed to Derryaughy, and in 1633, we find
Thomas Piers vicar of that parish. In 1638, his son Richard, married
Margaret, daughter of James Byrt, Carrickfergus. In 1685, John Piers,
;
410
1573,
Thomas Stephenson
1574,
William
Piers,
Gregory Grafton
William Field, senior
Humphrey
junior
Potts
John Cockrill
1575,
William Piers, junior
Humphrey
Potts, died,
succeeded by
John Dishford
1576,
William Dobbin
William
577.
Piers,
1580,
Robert Magye
Robert Warcope
Humphrey Johnston
Mychaell Savadge
Barnabic Ward
Thomas Stephenson
Humphrey Johnston
junior
Thomas Sackforde
William Dobbin
Thomas
Sackforde,
succeeded by N. Wills
1582, Capt. William Piers
1581, Capt.
William
1584, Capt.
Dobbin
Nicholas
Dawtrey
1585,
William Dobbin
1586,
Thomas Stephenson
John Savadge
Cockrill
John Dyer
John Dishford
1578, Nicholas Wills

1579, Capt.
J.
died,
John Dyer
John Savadge
Phellimy Magyc
John Dishforde
James Dobbin
John Dyer
Rychard Thomas
Mathew Jones
John Scully
John Dishford
Mychaell Savadge
Humphrey Johnston
John Scully
John Dyer
James Dobbin
William Dobbin
Thomas Vaughan
John Lugg
Charles
James Dobbin
Roger Cooper
Eggerton
merchant, resided in that town, who is said to have been a lineat

descendant from Captain William Piers.
Until lately some of his
descendants resided in Lisburn.
Ware's Annals.
Lodge's Peerage.
[" The Captain Wm. Piers referred to was son of Richard Piers,
near Ingleton, Yorkshire, from whom Sir John Piers, of Tristernagh
His son, Henry Piers, Esq., of
Abbey, is the tenth in descent.
His greatTristernagh, conformed to the Roman Catholic Church.
grandson, Sir Henry Piers, of Tristernagh, was the author of a
Chorographical Description of the County of Westmeath, a work of
The family residence at
great merit for the age that produced it.
Tristernagh is now (1850) in a state of dilapidation, and the family
estates encumbered."
Hill's MacDonnells of Antrim, p. 144.]
1
Was a confidential servant of Sir Henry Sidney, lord deputy,
and came into Ireland with him. Edmond Packenham of the Longford
family, was married to his daughter Frances.
Lodge's Peerage.
1
Was a lineal descendant of a person of that name who arrived
here with John De Courcy.
In 1600, he possessed a considerable
property in the Middle Division, extending from the town to the
Commons. About 1670, some persons of this family removed to
Rosstrevor.
The last male descendant who resided at Carrickfergus
was Patrick Savage, shoemaker, who sold off houses in the town,
and lands in the North-East Division, to Henry Magee. Records of
Carrickfergus.
1590,
Mathew Jones
1591,
Humphrey Johnston
59 2
>
1593,
John Dalhvaye
Nicholas
William Savadge) John Dyer,

Henrie Ockforde/ Ueputy.
l
Wills,
died,
succcded
by M. Savadge
1
594, John Savadge
1595,
Thomas Stephenson
1596, Charles
1597,
Moyses Hill
Roger Cooper
Alexander Haynes
James Dobbin
John Hooper
James Rice
Robert Wills, died,
John Dyer succeeded.
Richard Thomas
Roger Cooper
2
Rychard Con Ian
Thomas Vaughan
Thomas Wytter
Eggerton
Humphrey Johnston
Rychard Thomas, died,

Henry Ockforde succeeded
Thomas Gravott
X
598i
Rychard Newton
John Savadge
Owen Magye
1599,
Humphrey Johnston
Henrie Spearpointe
s
Sydney Russel
1600,
John Dalhvaye
Rychard Newton
Rychard Faythe
1601, Gregorie
1602,
Norton
Same
John Hooper
Mychaell Whyte
Ralph
Storie,
died,
Thomas Gravott
1603,
Movses Hill*
and
succeeded
Dudley Yearworth
Robert Lyndon
See notice of the Dalway family.
^Richard Conlin, or O'Conlin, was son of Thomas Conlin.

Having no issue at his death he bequeathed his property to his niece
Ann Bunch, who was afterwards married to Ensign Garret Reiley,
to whom she had three
daughters, one of whom was married to
Marlow Reiley, another to James Rice, and the third to Dr. John
Neither of the two last had issue.
From
Coleman, Carrickfergus.
the former was descended the late James Reiley
and Ann, daughter
;
Garret Reiley, of this family, being married to Mathew Barry,

Carrickfergus, from her is descended Mrs. Ann Barry, alias, Hill.
of a
Tradition.
3
Sidney Russel was descended from the Russel who arrived here
with John De Courcy.
At his death he left a considerable property
in the Middle Division, which his eldest son Christopher sold in 1661
to Edmond Davys, and removed to Shanescastle.
About the same
time his youngest son, Richard, mortgaged his property in this town,
and went to reside at Broughshane. Records of Carrickfergus.
*
Sir Moses Hill was one of those military adventurers who
arrived at Carrickfergus with Walter Devereux, Earl of Essex, in 1573.
He also served under his son Robert, Earl of Essex, and afterwards
in
the army of his successor Lord Mountjoy, by whom he was
appointed governor of Olderfleet castle, near Larne, then a place of
In 1597, he was in Carrickfergus, and on
considerable importance. 1
the 4th November accompanied Sir John Chichester, governor, when
and
a few horse, marched out against James
he with 500 foot soldiers,
M'Donnell, who with a force of 400 foot, and 60 horsemen, braved
'Collin's Peerage.
Lodge's Peerage.
412
1604,
John Savadge
1605,
James Byrte
Thomas Wytter
Clement Foard
1606,
James Byrte
1607,
Thomas Wytter, deputy

Thomas Wytter
1608, Sir
Foulke Conway
Thomas M'Manus
Thomas Cooper
Owen Magye
Leonard Gale
Nicholas Dobbin
Dermot Haynes
Robert Elice*
Walter Hilman
the garrison to combat.

On the advance of the English, M'Donnell
retired to Altfreken, where he had placed a select body of Highlanders
in ambush, in a ravine now called the Saut-hole.
These men starting
from their concealment, and charging with great fury, the troops
under Sir John fell into confusion, and but few were enabled to effect
their escape. 1
Sir Moses fled into Island-Magee, where he remained
for some time hid in a cave, which for many years after was called bv
2
his name.
He afterwards served under the Lord Deputy Chichester,
to whom he was related.
In 1603, he was appointed provost-marshal
of the forces at Carrickfergus, with a fee of six shillings per day
and
in 1613, he was one of the representatives in parliament for the
of
Antrim.
A
fe%v
after
he
was
made
county
years
provost-marshal of
Ulster, with po%ver to proceed by martial law, and to inflict the
3
of
or
at
his
discretion.
death,
otherwise,
punishment
Lodge, in his
Irish Peerage, alledges, that he married for his first wife, Alice, sister
of Sorley Buye M'Donnell.
Tradition affirms that she was Alice,
daughter of William Dobbin, an alderman of Carrickfergus, and
\Vidow of Lewis Jones, also an alderman of the same town.
This
account is in a great measure confirmed by the circumstance, that in
1603, Sir Moses Hill had granted to him 60 additional acres of the
Corporation lands, "in right of his wife Alice;" and it is certain the
Sir
M'Donnells never had any claims to lands in Carrickfergus.
Moses also resided several years in the castle of William Dobbin,
4
His second wife was Anne, widow of
High-Street, Carrickfergus.
Sir Francis Stafford, knt.
Peter, his son by this marriage, succeeded
5
Sir Moses in 1629.
his
on
death
of
to
the
estates,
1
This person resided in Castle-street, Carrickfergus, and held a
The last of his family who
landed property in the Middle Division.
resided here was named Bryan ; he was agent to John Davys, and
In
removed from Carrickfergus to near Ahoghill.
1769,
Bryan
M'Manus served the office of high sheriff of the county of Antrim, as
did his son Alexander in 1782, who was afterwards lieutenant colonel
Records of Carrickfergus. MS.
of the Antrim Militia.
2
In the above year Sir Foulk was also lieutenant general of the
army, and governor of Carrickfergus, in which he held a considerable
In 1613, he was one
property, chiefly bought from Thomas Powell.
and in the
of the knights of the shire for the county of Antrim
Grand Inquisition of the county of Down he is called of Enniskillegane,
He died 1626. February, 1640, Edward Viscount
county of Antrim.
Conway, to whom his estates descended, mortgaged his possessions in
;
Carrickfergus
perfected
1
in
to
1647.
John Davys, for ^Tiooo,

Mac Geoghan.
Lodge's Peerage.
Commons' Journals.
Lodge's Peerage.
4
5
Lodge's Peerage.
* See notice of the Ellis familv.
which
MSS.
mortgage
was
iCcx),
1610,
Sir
Foulke Conway
Rychard
Jasper Happer
Thomas Powell
Taafle
Bartholemewe Johnston
Rychard Wytter
William Hurley
Edward Hodgsone
1611, Mychaell \\hyte

1612,
Robert Lyndon
1613,
Thomas Cooper
'
Thomas Bashford
Ine sword and mace were
Ezechiel Davis William Dobbin, dismissed

Carew Hart chosen in his
room.
William Stephenson
Clement Foard
Anthony Dobbin
first
carried before him.

1614, Capt.
1615,
Hercules Langford
Humphrey Johnston
1616, Capt.
Humphrey Norton
Thomas M'Manus
Thomas Papes
William Hurley
Thomas
Kirkpatrick
See notice of the Lynden family.

See notice of the Davys family.
3
Captain Hercules Langford was brother to Captain Roger Langford, who in the igth James I. had a grant of the lands that had
Hercules was also
belonged to the dissolved abbey of Muckamore.
"
mayor in 1623, and
began the building of the large house in the
Market place, which was finished in 1626." He bequeathed his property in Carrickfergus to his nephew Sir Roger Langford, who, May
loth, 1643, sold off the lands of Boleyhouse, called 95 acres, and 26
acres adjoining the North road, called Kelly's land, to Roger Lyndon
for ^400.
In 1661, Hercules Langford, perhaps, son of Sir Roger,
was high sheriff of the county of Antrim. In 1716, Sir Arthur Langford died, at which time he was one of the representatives in parliament
for the county of Antrim.
Gill's .1/55.
4
Was one of five brothers, all of whom were officers in the army
of Queen Elizabeth, in Ireland, viz. Sir Dudley, Robert, Gregory,
Thomas, and Humphrey Norton. Sir Dudley was long chief secretary
for Ireland, which office he resigned from his age and infirmities in
Robert built Castle-Robin, near Lisburn
Gregory dwelt near
1634.
Castle-Dobbs
Thomas settled at Lochill, county of Antrim and
Humphrey erected Castle-Norton. By an inquisition on Lord "ChiSir
chester's property, held 1618-19, it appears that he granted to
Humphrey Norton (Armiger), the castle called Castle-Norton, with the
Villages and Lands thereunto belonging, viz. Templepatrice, alias,
Templeton, alias, Temple-Bally-Patrick Clougherduff, and Killnakice,
12
in the territory or Tough of Ballylinny," at the annual rent of
That Tough had been granted to Sir James
and two fat beeves.
-
Sir
In
in
trust for Lord Chichester.
1613,
of the original burgesses in the charter granted to
Belfast.
In 1616, Thomas was member of a jury impannelled to
About 1620, n
ascertain the possessions of Sir Arthur Chichester.
named
daughter of Sir Humphrey's marrying a serjeant of dragoons,
off
O'Linn, he was so highly incensed at her conduct, that he sold
from
Castle-Norton, and the lands adjoining, to Captain Henry Upton,
which time the place was commonly called Castle-Upton. From this
about ^"2500 per annum. Within
property Lord Templeton now draws
Randalstown.
memory some descendants of said O'Linn, resided near
MSS. (See Note.)
Tradition.
Hamilton
in
1609,
Humphrey was one
414
1617, Sir
1618,
Hill
Moyses
Thomas
Mathewe Johnston
John Redworth
Nicholas Dobbin
Witter, died,
Mychaell Whyte succeeded

1619, Sir
1620,
Hugh Clotworthy
Cornell
O'Kane
William Hurley
Edward Wilkinson
Edward Hodgsone
Inghram Horsman
O'Kane
James Savadge, died,
James Byrte
Cornell
1621,
Thomas Cooper
1622, Mychaell
Wm.
Whyte,
died,
Storr succeeded
1623, Sir
Hercules Langford
1624, Sir
Roger Langford
1625,
Thomas Kirkpatrick
1626,
Anthony Dobbin
1627,
Inghrame Horsman, died,

Mathewe Johnston succeeded
Mathewe Johnstone 4
1628,
1629, Sir
1630,
Moyses
Hill
James Byrte
1631, Sir
Hercules
Langford
1632, Cornelius Hermans, died,

Mat. Johnston succeeded
1633,
Thomas Kirkpatrick
1634,
William Penrye
1635,
Thomas Whitager
William Story 3 elected by

the Bench
Robert Savadge
John Davis
Rychard Spearpoynte
William Cloughe
Marmaduke Newton
Edwarde Mason
Edwarde Hodgsone
Andrewe Dixon
Cornelius Hermans
John Howsell
Thomas Richison
Ralph Kilman
Thomas Turner
John Edgar
William Penrie
William Cankarth
Thomas Whitager
Anthony Haull
Joshua Wharton
Clement Bashford
Rychard Spearpoynt
Marmaduke Newton
John Davis
John Parkes
William Happer
William Ayshworth
Thomas Gravott
William Bashforde
1636, Richard Spearpoynt
Thomas Richison
William Williams
1
Sir Arthur Chichester, then in Scotland, was first elected, but
on his return " he Shewinge many good
forceable reasons, as well
for the good of the Towne, as other vvyse, and withall submittinge
the came
himselfe to what fyne the Towne would ympose upon him
to a Seconde Elecone upon the i2th day of Sep. 1617." Records of
;
Carrickfergus.
2
See notice of the Clotworthy family.

From this time it is often noticed that one of the Sheriffs was
elected by the Mayor only.
4
Mathew Johnston was a son of Humphrey Johnston, who was
deputed to take out a new charter from Queen Elizabeth. In 1658 he
was very old and poor, and the Assembly, on his petition, granted him
;io 5 per annum, during his life. Records of Carrickfergus.
Arthur Chichester, Esq., was first elected, but "Shewinge many
" the said
office,
good forceable causes & reasons hinderinge to undergo
Richard Spearpoint was elected in his room on the i3th September.
3

1638,
Edward Johnston
John Hall
William Happer
William Penrie, junior
Roger Lyndon
1639, Sir
Thomas Gravott
Humphrey Johnston
Roger Langford
1640, John Davies
Robert Savadge
George Happer
T. Baker chosen
1641, John Davies
his
in
room
1642, Capt.
Roger Lyndone
Mychaell Savadge
John Bull worthy
1643, Capt.
Roger Lyndone
Pat.
William Bashforde
Fitz-James
Savadge
2
Same
1644,
Thomas Kirkpatrick
1645,
Mathewe Johnston
1646,
Richard Spearpoynt
F. N. Dobbin
John Savadge
William Bashforde
Thomas Tennison
John Orpin
John Boyd
James
Same
1648, Capt.
Roger Lyndone
James Dobbin
1649,
William Happer
1650, William
William Cathcart
John Orpin
James Crooks
Robert Welsh
Happer
1651, Capt.
Roger Lyndone
1652, Capt.
John Dallway
653, Capt.
,
Roger Lyndone
John Bulhvorthy
Rowland M'Quillan
Edmond DuvYes
Thomas Dobbin
John Bull worthy, junior
Anthony Hall
Rowland M'Quillan
John Hall
John Birte
Richard Spearpoint was mayor in 1637, when he made a

Surrender of the Customes of this Towne for three thousand pounds,
which
he ruined the Towne, by parting with one of the valueablest
by
grants that perhaps \vas ever made to any body Corporate before
me
and must do every one else that reads the History of this
gives
vile action the greatest abhorrence to the memory of So vile a man,
which ought to perish in oblivion, did no other flagrency of the fact
suffer it not to die
but to convince every man that does an unjust
action that either he or his posterity will meet with Justice retaliate
due to their name this man left behind him a Son possessed of a
corporation estate the father unjustly got, which the Son as foolishlyparted" with, and died a Beggar."- -Gill's MSS.
2
The said Pat. Fitz-James Savadge & William Bashforde, bv
the generall Consent of the Maire, Bench, and Comons, were chosen &
In regarde they were very
elected Sheriffs for the succeeding yeare.
deligent this yeare in their office, and for that they were very experte in
;
these tymes of distractions." MS.

3
"Was Grandfather by the mother, and Grand uncle by the father
to Mr. Alexander Dahvay, who married the daughter of the Laird of
Duntreath, 1696." Gill's MSS.

4
Was a carpenter by trade, and resided in High-street, in a castl*
that had belonged to Thomas Dobbin, which was afterwards called
John
Peter Taylour
Bullworthy
Thomas Dobbin
1656,
John Orpin
'6571
John Orpin
Robert Wyttcr
\\"iiliam Dobbin
Thomas Griffeth
Andrew Gaidner
Jasper Haper
Harris,"
1658, Joseph
1659,
John Davies
1660,
John Dallvvay, Esq.
1661, Capt.
1662,
John Dalhvay
James Dobbin,
1663, Hercules
John Wadman
Samuel Treherne
William Thomson
Michaell Karr
Richard Johnston
Thomas Dobbin
Rowland M'Ouillan
Thomson
\Villiam
Rowand M'Quillan
Thomas Dobbin
Same
Davies
1664,
John Dallway, Esq.
1665,
Anthony Hall
1666,
William Dobbin
1667,
Edmond Davies
1668,
Robert Welsh
Thomas Dobbin
*
Richard Johnston
John Magee
Cornelius Bashforde
Richard Westbrook
Henry Burnes
Ezekiel Davies
Richard Pendleton
William Hilditch
"'
Bulleries-castle, being a corruption of his name.

January 171)1, 1653,
he had a grant of 48 acres of land, West Division, that had been
William Jordan's; also six acres adjoining: likewise a deed of 80
acres of Seskinamaddy, which his grandson, John Gardner, sold to
Henry Clements, Straid who, in 1684, had a deed for ever in his own
i
6s. 8d.
Gill's MSS. Records of
name, at the annual rent of
Carrickfergus.
"
John Orpin was a pewterer and plumber, and of mean descent
the way he came to improve his fortune was by being one of the
Executors of the Lady Langford, by which he got considerable, but
not justly."
He died 1661, leaving his possessions here to his son
Thomas, a glazier, who died 1719, bequeathing his property to his
eldest son John, and his daughter Margaret Wisencraft, and offspring.
;
Gill's
MSS.
MS.
"
was a rich merchant, and dealt much in French

Joseph Harris
wines until alderman John Davies by buying the Country Butter gived
them a greater price, selling the wine he imported cheaper, and Mr.
Harris loosing the Ships with the Cargo, in about three weeks time,
and other losses Spoiled his trade, and reduced him and his family to
low circumstances." He died 1660. Gill's MSS.
"
*
James Dobbin was of an ancient family, yot kept an Inn and
Sold Ale; he left only one Son behind him." Gill's MSS.
* "
Was a merchant of good Account, and lived many Years in
this Towne, till brocken by bad Servents and misfortunes at Sea, to
the loss of Great numbers of people that he had
money from on
20 yearly, for five years, to
In 1676, he was granted
Interest."
the
him
he
in
the
losses
sustained
mutiny of the
May, 1666, by
repay
"
in the year 1696, he was a Chandler in Belfast,
troops in garrison
and died there." Records of Carrickfergus. Gill's MSS.
"
5
Was
Resided where the distillery then stood in North-street.
a tanner, and tho' mayor could neither Read nor write, yet was a
*
417
J669,
Anthony Horsman
1670,
Anthony Horsma.t
1671, Richard
Samuel Treherne
John Stubbs
j ohn Henderson
Same
Symon
Dobbs'
Richardson
he makes
mark.
William Bennett *
.
signing
1672,
Henry Davies
kdmpnd
Uav'es,
In
his
Thomas M'Manus
John Smvth
j ames M'Cuilogh
John Davies
George Walsh
dep.
1673, William H.ll
Anthony Horsman, dep.

1674, William Hill
1675,
Anthony Horsman, dep.

John Byrte
1676,
John Byrte
1677,
Solomon Faith*
Edward Hall
Thomas Harper
Adam
1678, tzekell
;679, Hercules
Dennison
John Smyth
John Tyso
James M'Cuilogh
William Dawson
Robert Williams
Cornelius Bashford
Richard Pendleton
John Magee
Davies
Davies
man in considerable substance, which shows

a fortune in those times, and how difficult
man." He died 1671. Gill's MSS.
1
The
family
of
Horsman
formerly
how
now
easy it was to make

by the most learned
possessed
considerable
within this corporation.

Anthony, who was mayor in the
above years, had a son called Richard, who married a daughter of
Kane's
of
John
Carrickfergus, by his wife
(mother of Cornelius
Crymble), by whom he had a son called Anthony and several
Richard
died
his
daughters.
1720, leaving
property in this place to his
son Anthony, who soon after sold part of that in the town to Ezekial
Davies and about 1726, mortgaged his lands in the country to Henry
Magee they were then valued at ^40 per annum. In 1729 he was in
such low circumstances that the Assembly gave him
10 out of the
property
funds of the corporation

and, in 1731, he resigned his place of alderin favour of Colonel Richard Kane, a native of this town, then
governor of the island of Minorca, and went out to that island. About
1764, his heirs, Beresford Horsman and John Boyse, made an attempt
to recover the lands he had so foolishly mortgaged.
December nth,
a
1769 they were publicly sold at the Exchequer Office, Dublin, bv
lt
to
decree of the Court of Exchequer bearing date June same year,
pay the Plaintiffs the Principal, Interest, and Costs, in the Decree."
The Plaintiffs were Francis Shaw and Ann Magee. alias Crymble, aliaShaw, wife of said Francis, administratrix of William Magee, Henry
Magee, and Charles Crymble. Gill's MSS. Records of Carrickfergus.
MSS. Belfast News-Letter, No. 3371.
2 See
notice of the Dobbs family.
John Jowland was first elected, but refusing to take the oaths of
20.
office he was fined
4
Solomon Faith was a captain in the army; he married Catherine
Their daughter, Jane,
daughter of William Dobbin, Carrickfergus.
was married to Edward Pottinger, whose daughter was married to A
Vesy, Lucan, near Dublin. MS.
;
man
:!
28
Henry Clements
1680,
'
Andrew Clements
John Byrtt
In 1609,
we
an Edward and John Clements settled at Straid,

from its being previously possessed by
Thomas Stevenson, of Carrickfergus. On the aoth of March, in this
Edward
Clements obtained from John Dalway, a deed of the
year,
townlands of Ballythomas, Straidballythomas, and Ballymenagh, for
which he was to pay
2 55. per annum.
At the same time John
Clements is noticed as holding lands near Straid the remainder of the
then
called
find
Thomastown,
Cynament, or parish of Ballynure, consisting of thirteen townlands,

was then held by Moses Hill and Thomas Hibbots. 1
About 1640, Henry Clements of Straid, who is believed to have
been son of the above Edward, was deputy recorder of Carrickfergus.
In 1648, we find him a captain in Sir John
Clotworthy's regiment of
foot, and in the following year in garrison at Carrickfergus, of which
town he had been chosen an alderman. He died soon after. Henry,
Edward, Andrew, and Francis Clements, are afterwards mentioned as
aldermen or burgesses of Carrickfergus
they are believed to have
been sons of the first mentioned Henry. 3
Another brother named
settled
in
the county of Cavan, got an estate there
and
Robert,
married Miss Sandford, of the Castlerea family, from whom descended
;
Lord Leitrim, father to Nathaniel, Earl of Leitrim. 3

Robert,
Henry and Edward Clements took an active and decided part
first
in
the passing events of their time.

They were of those who signed the
Antrim Association in 1688, for which the former was attainted by
King James's parliament in 1689. In 1692, Henry was one of the
and in 1699, Andrew
representatives in parliament for Carrickfergus
was high sheriff of the county of Antrim, and in 1710, on the death of
William Shaw, high sheriff of the same county, he was appointed to
succeed him ; in which office he continued the following year.
Henry
;
died in 1696, and Andrew in 1721.*

On the death of Henry, his brother Edward succeeded to the
In 1707, he resided at Clements-hill, in which year he
family estates.
served the office of high sheriff of the county of Antrim and in 1715,
;
he was appointed major of a regiment of militia dragoons belonging to

the same county, commanded by the hon. John I. Chichester. 5
He
married Eleanor, daughter of Alexander Dalway, Ballyhill, and by her
who died March, 1696, had seven sons, and two daughters, viz.
Edward, Henry, Hercules, Francis, John, Dalway,
Anne, and
Millicent.
Anne was married to Francis Ellis and Millicent to WaterIn 1716, Edward was high sheriff of the county of
house Crymble.
Antrim he died 1733."
Francis was appointed major of dragoons on the decease of his
father, and in 1721, served the office of high sheriff of the county of
Antrim. He married a Miss Pont of Liverpool, but having no issue,
and dying intestate on the 26th March, 1749, his estate devolved to his
nephews, Henry Ellis, and Waterhouse Crymble, eldest sons of his
sisters Ann and Millicent.
Henry entered into holy orders he died
1716. John and Dalway Clements were officers in Colonel Skeffington's
regiment, and served in the city of Derry during its memorable siege
,
'MS.
MSS.
3
3
Debrett's Peerage.
State of the
MS.
Antrim.
5
MSS.
MS.
Protestants.
MSS.
Records of the County
Samuel Webby
68i,
1683,
Andrew Willoughby
John Dobbin
Henry Burnes
John Davies
William Johnston
John Kerr
1684,
Edmond Davies
Edward Hall
Symon Richison
1682, Richard Dobbs
John Henderson
James M'Cullogh
John Kerr
James M'Cullogh
Richard Kane
Richard Horsman
1685, Arthur Earl of Doncgall

Solomon Faith, dep.
1686, John Davies
1687, Richard
Dobbs
1688, Richard
Dobbs
1689, Richard
Dobbs
Marmaduke Newton
Richard Horsman
Marmaduke Newton
Same
1690,
Henry Davys
Samuel Davys
1691,
Andrew Clements
Solomon Bashford
*
John Brown
William Tisdall
the former of
officer
in
whom
as well as his brother Hercules
Lord Inchiquin's regiment
of
was afterwards an
Hercules married
Susanna, daughter
Captain Francis Ellis, niece of Sir Hercules
Clements
Langford. John
(perhaps son of Edward), got that part of
the family estate called
Ballymenagh (Lower Ballymenagh), which he
foolishly sold to Charles Crymble, Ballygallogh, "for a Song, an old
10 in hand.*
horse, and
Some of this person's grandchildren reside
in Dublin, and are in
respectable circumstances.
1
Was from Lincoln at his death which happened in 1684, he left
his property in North-street, and Back-lane,
Carrickfergus, to his niece
Elizabeth, daughter of William Dobbin, who was married to Captain
James Gibbons from her it descended to Captain Henry South, Ballyeaston, and from him to Lord Macartney, and
Reynell, who
sold the same to Sir William Kirk, Knight, and the Rev. Richard
Dobbs. Records of Carrickfergus.
dragoons.
of
"The following memorandums appear in the records of Carrickfergus, immediately after the notice of the election of Mr. Dobbs
1687, Feb. Cormick O'Neile, Esq. was ellected alderman, in place of
:
^'
Andrew Willoughby."
"
TYRCONNELL.
Whereas, on the i3th day of this inst. July, a
Certificate was returned unto this board, from the mayor and Sheriffes
of Carrickfergus, dated the 27th day of June, 1687, whereby it appears
that on the said 27th day of June, Richard Dobbs, alderman, was
chosen of the sd. Towne for one year commencing at michaelmas next,
& Richd. Horseman & Marmaduke Newton, Sheriffes for the year
aforesd.
the Ld. Deputy and Councell do by this our order approve
of the choyce of the sd. Persons to Serve in the Severall offices aforesd.
Given at the
for the sd. year commencing at Michaelmas next.
Councell chamber in Dublin, the i3th day of July, 1687. A Hylton,
We
C. Granard,
Mountjoy, S. Nugent, D. Daly, Wm. Davies,
Thos. Heightly, John Dasvies, Step. Rice, Garret Moore."
3
Was a wealthy dealer in Carrickfergus he bought several tenements and lands from the Savage's and Wills's, which his heirs sold to
Thomas Gunning. -Records of Carrickfergus.
;
MS.
ford family.
Tradition.
MSS.
of the
Lang-
420
1692,
Marmaduke Newton
1693,
Marmaduke Newton
1694, Richard
1695,
Horsman
Samuel Davys
Henry Clements, died

Nov. ad. Samuel Davys succeeded
1697, Hon. John E. Chichester
1696,
1698,
Henry Davys
1699, Sir
Thomas Dancer
1700, Cornelius
Crvmble
David Hood
John M'Cully
William Dawson
James Erwin
William Tisdall
Cornelius Crvmble
Robert Williams
Cornelius Bashford
Roger Horsman
Solomon Bashford
David Hood
James Erwin
Capt. Arthur Davys
Capt. John Davys
John Chaplin
Capt. James Gibbons
Solomon Bashford
James Erwin
1
The family of Crvmble are said to have been of French extraction,
and are believed to have arrived in Ireland about 1568, with Sir Edward
Waterhouse, secretary to the lord deputy Sir Henry Sidney.
Sir
Edward afterwards settled in Carrickfergus, and in 1585, was' one of
its representatives in parliament. 1
His only child is said to have been
married to Roger Crymble, to whom, at his removal to Dublin, he
those
tenements
which
he held in Carrickfergus.
In 1621
bequeathed
2
In
they were held by Charles Crymble, son and heir of said Roger.
1612, we find Waterhouse Crymble (probably son of Roger), one of the
in
the
charter
of
Belfast
and
in
a
chief
original burgesses
1636,
mourner at the funeral of Lord Viscount Montgomery and in 1649,
he erected thecomptroller of the customs of the port of Donaghadee
3
first Custom-house at that port.
April 1646, George Crymble was admitted a free Merchant of the
2
and in 1687, we find
Staple, of Carrickfergus, on paying a fine of
the above Cornelius residing at Scout-bush, and obtaining from the
1
corporation a grant of 147 acres of land beneath the Knockogh hill,

that had been William Penry's, to whom he would seem to have been
4
related.
These lands afterwards became the property of Charles-
Crymble, Ballygallogh, who, in November, 1792, sold them to James

Craig, Carrickfergus, for ^2500.
About the same period that George Crymble is noticed, a branch of
the family settled at Ballygallogh, near Ballyclare.
In 1698, Charles
Crymble, of said place, obtained a deed from the corporation of
Carrickfergus, of the lands called Lisglass, alias, Little Ballymenagh.
2.
at the yearly rent of
He married his cousin Ann, daughter of
Cornelius Crymble, Carrickfergus, by whom he had several children.
1704, a William Crymble, and a Waterhouse Crymble, jun. are
mentioned in the records of Carrickfergus. Cornelius died 1720. 5
his eldest son
Charles Crymble died near Ballyclare in 1756
Charles is said to have married a Miss Houston he died in 1775, at
he was remarkable for his parsimonious
the advanced age of 102
His son Charles died at Ballyclare, Sept. 3d, 1765 he married
habits.
of
Ann, daughter
Henry Magee, Carrickfergus, by whom he had
The latter died unWilliam, Charles, Martha, Margaret, and Ann.
In
MSS.
'
Mongomery MSS.
Ibid.
421
John Davys
Samuel Davys, dcp.
Andrew Clements
Samuel Davys, dep.
Andrew Clements
1701, Captain
1702,
1703,
John Bashford
Nathaniel Bvrte
David Hood'
Thomas Bashford
Same
Cornelius Crymble, dep.

1704,
Edward Clements
1705,
Edward Clements
John Chaplin
Thomas Bashford
John Chaplin
Thomas Bashford
1706, Richard Horsman

1707, Richard Horsman
Thomas Young
Nicholas Brown
Same
1708, Cornelius
Crymble
John Bashford
1709, Cornelius
Crymble
Thomas Bashford
Same
1710,
Edward Clements
1711, John Chaplin
Thomas Young
William Bashford
Rigby Dobbin
Nicholas
Brown
married, as did William in Dec. 1785.

June, 1780, Margaret was
married to Valentine Joyce, merchant, Belfast, to whom she had one
son and three daughters.
Charles married Clementina, daughter of
Gardner, goldsmith,
Edinburgh, by whom he had two
daughters. In 1789, he served the office of high sheriff of the county of
Antrim.
He died Sept. 6th, 1797, some years before which he had
separated from Mrs. Crymble.
Having no male issue, his estate
to the will of his grandfather), devolved to his cousin,
âgreeable
Thomas B. Adair, Loghanmore.
son of the first-mentioned Charles,
resided
at
W'aterhouse,
He married Millicent, daughter
Clements-hill, where he died in 1754.
of Edward Clements, Straid, by whom he had two sons and two
daughters, viz. Edward, Watcrhousc, Eleanor, married to Henry Ellis,
and Nancy, married to the Rev.
Lindsay, who settled near
Dungannon. Waterhouse was a lieutenant in Col. Dunbar's regiment
of foot, and fell in North America, July, 1755, with General Braddock.
Edward was an officer in the 58th Regiment of foot, and distinguishing
himself at the capture of Crown-point, was made a captain in the same
He married Lucy, daughter of James
corps by Sir Jeffrey Amherst.
Bradshaw, Lurgan, and widow of
Ogle she was distinguished
;
by the name of the handsome Quaker. They resided for some years at
Lurgan, and one summer had for their guest the afterwards celebrated
Oeneral \Volfe. A few years after a total separation took place between
He was a magistrate of
Mr. and Mrs. Crymble; they had no issue.
the county of Antrim, and remarkable for the inflexible justice of his
decisions
he died at Clements-hill, August gth, 1789, leaving his
estate to his nephew, Henry Clements Ellis, Prospect, Carrickfergus.
[The Belfast News-Letter of May ist, 1850, has a death notice of
n Martha Crymble, daughter and last lineal descendant of Charles
Perhaps a daughter of Charles, who died
Crymble, Ballyclaro.
6th, 1797.]
September
l
john Chaplin married Mary, daughter of Andrew Willoughby
their daughter, Margaret, was married to Andrew Newton, who had
Issue, Henry, married to Sarah, sister of the Rev. James Frazer,
Carrickfergus; from whom was descended Andrew Newton, Coagh.
1
;"
who
died there April 1826, in his 78 year.

J
Tradition.
422
1712,
Samuel Davys
Charles
1713,
Samuel Davys
James Wilson
Ezekiel Davys Wilson
John Brown, Jun.
1714,
1715,
Ellis
1717, Francis
Ellis
1718,
Thomas Young
Thomas Bashford
John Davys, Jun.

Samuel Davys, dep.
Andrew Clements
Samuel Davys, dep.
1716, Francis
Howard
Rigby Dobbin
Nicholas Brown
David Morrison
William Bashford
David Morrison
William Spencer
Rigby Dobbin
John Chaplin
Andrew Newton
1719, Francis Clements
Francis Ellis, dep.
1720, Arthur
Francis
David Morrison
William Bashford
David Morrison
William Magee *
William Bashford
Dobbs
Ellis,
dep.
1722,
John Lyndon
John Chaplin, dep.
Ezekiel Davys Wilson
James Ervvin
David Morrison
1723,
Anthony Horsman
Thomas Bashford
Same
1724,
Rigby Dobbin
John Chaplin,
An. Horsman, deputies
1721,
1
Arthur Chichester was
on paying a fine.
David Morrison
Thomas Bashford
chosen, but was excused from serving
first
He was
a brother of Henry Magee, and resided in a castellated

North-East Division.
In 1741, he obtained from Edwarrf
Lyndon a grant for ever of the lands of Ardboley, at the yearly rent of
He bequeathed his estate to his brother Henry, who at his death
1$.
left his property to his daughter Ann, %vho was married to Charles
On his decease she was married to Franci?
Crymble, Ballygallogh.
Shaw, and by him, who died April 1801, she had four daughters, viz.
Mary, Elizabeth, Frances, and Helen.
3
Was descended of a family who were early settled in Carrickthe first mentioned is Peter, constable of the castle in 1400.
fergus
In 1614, we find the family consisting of several branches, and possessing considerable property in Carrickfergus, chiefly, in the North-East
Division, which they soon after sold to Sir Arthur Chichester, Sir
Thomas Phillips, and Anthony Hall. About 1627, Nicholas Dobbin
removed hence to Shanescastle
and in 1688, we find William and
Humphrey Dobbin, two of the burgesses appointed by James II. in hischarter to Belfast, from which circumstance it is probable they took
In 1690, the estate of Peter Dobbin was
part with that monarch.
attainted, and June 3d, 1703, his lands were sold at Chichestcr-house,
Dublin
they consisted of the lands of Drumsough, Lenagh, Ballyhe
with
nclurgan, alias, Ferelagh, alias, Oglully, county Antrim
lands of Newton and Cunningham, county of Donegall.
Rigby
Dobbin, noticed above, resided at Duneane, where he died in 1765, as
In 1756, Nicholas Dobbin, son of
did his son James the same year.
Thomas, still held the family property of Ardoo, with the lands now
called Farmhill, and also several tenements in the North East Division,
which were afterwards sold to Edward Brice, Kilroot, who sold them
to William Finlay, Carrickfergus.
About 1760, James Dobbin, son of William, removed from Carrickfergus to London, and about 1778, his son James Dobbin, M.D., sold
mansion,
4*3
Valentine Jones
E. D. Wilson, dep.
1726, Francis Ellis
Willoughby Chaplin
Nathaniel Byrt
David Morrison
1727, Francis
John Coleman
John Chaplin
George Spaight
Clements
Dobbs
1728, Arthur
Francis Clements, dep.

1729, Francis Lord Conway
I 73
John Lyndon
1731, Francis Ellis,
Dobbs
1732, Arthur
George Spaight,
1733, Willoughby
dep.
Chaplin
1734,
George Spaight
I 735
Willoughby Chaplin
736, Francis
Ellis
Nathaniel Byrt
William Magee
Henry
Gill
George Spaight
Willoughby Chaplin
Nathaniel Byrt
David Morrison
Clements Courtney
John Chaplin
Clements CourtneyJohn Chaplin

Nathaniel Byrt
Clements Courtney
John Coleman
Clements CourtneyJohn Coleman
Nathaniel Byrt
John Coleman
Same
Ellis
1737,
Henry
1738,
George Spaight
1739,
Henry
Nat. Byrt
Hercules Clements
Richard Chaplin
John Seeds
Gill
1740, Francis Clements

George Spaight, dep.
1741, Arthur Dobbs
1742,
John Davys
John Seeds
Nat. Byrt
Willoughby Chaplin
not appearing
*743i Capt. John Davys
to
be sworn into office, Wil;
Richard Chaplin
Davys Wilson
Richard Chaplin
Edward Jones
Davys Wilson
loughby Chaplin continued

the remaining part of the family lands at Carrickfergus, to Sir
William Kirk, Knight.
The last person of this name who resided
here was Thomas.
His son went early to sea, and was long
off
commander
a vessel in the revenue service.

He dwelt a
Records Rolls Office, Dublin. Records
Sale of Forfeitures.
Tradition.
of Carrickfergus.
1
Was related to Francis Clements. Straid. He left two daughters,
who perished on the Commons of Carrickfergus, during a snowstorm,
about 1740, going on a visit to their friend Mr. Clements. Another
woman named Mulholland was also lost with them at the same time.
Tradition.
2
Son of John Chaplin, by Mary, daughter of Andrew Willoughby.
3 "
In this year James Erwin, who was a burgess, and had served
the office of sheriff, died in great poverty, and was interred at the
When sheriff in 1700, he was ruined by
sole expence of Henry Gill.
the misconduct of his colleague, Solomon Bashford." Records of
the
of
few years ago at Milfordhaven.
Carrickfergus.
4
"In the
month of July the Repairs of the Dragoon & foott

Barracks were began at Carrickfergus, and finished in the month of
January 1737-8, Mr. Hugh Darley, undertaker, Arthur Dobbs, Esq.
then Engineer and Surveyor General." Gill's MSS.
424
Hon.
Chichester
not
John
appearing,
Willoughby Chaplin
continued
1745, Rt. Hon. Arthur Earl of Donenot
Will.
gall
appearing,
Chaplin continued
1744,
Hon. John Chichester; was dead
1746,
when elected. Willoughby Chaplin was elected in his room on

the 24th
1747, Rt.
gall
Same
Richard Chaplin
Nat. Byrt
William Macartney
Nat. Byrt
Sepr.
Hon. Arthur Earl of Donenot appearing, Willoughby
Richard Chaplin
Davys Wilson
Chaplin continued
Edward
1748,
Brice
Edward Jones
William Macartney
Was
descended from the Rev. Edward Bryce, or Brice, Presby-
terian minister of
Drimen, who was obliged
to
fly
from Scotland, for
opposing "in bitter tcarmes," John Spootwood, Bishop of Glasgow, who

had been appointed moderator of the Synod of Clydesdale. 1 About 1611,
he settled in the parish of Templecoran, alias, Braidisland, preaching
there and in the church of Ballykiel, Island-Magee alternately. 2
September 3d, 1619, he was collated to the Prebend of Kilroot, by Robert
of
Down
and
in
which
he
was
installed
Echlin, bishop
Connor,
living
on the i7th of the same month. 3 These ceremonies however did not
to
the
canons
of
the
The bishops
imply conformity
episcopal church.
were merely acknowledged as Presbyters, and in performing the duties
of their office on these occasions omitted such parts of the ceremonies
as were objected by the ministers, whose only object was to obtain the
4
legal maintenance of these parishes to which they had been called.
August I2th, 1636, he was deposed in Belfast, by Henry Lesly, bishop
of Down and Connor, for refusing to conform to the canonical forms
of episcopacy. 5
He died the same year, aged 67, leaving two sons and
two daughters.'
His eldest son
Robert resided at Castle-Chichester, where he

acquired a fortune probably, by trading to Scotland Castle-Chichester
the station from which the mails
being then a place of some trade, and
In November 1676, he died in
were despatched to that kingdom. 7
Dublin, aged 63 years. By his wife Elizabeth, who died January 1704,
he had three sons, and the same number of daughters, one of whom
was married to Thomas Knox, the first of the Northland family who
came to Ireland.* Hugh, son of Robert, died in 1687, aged 24 years
in 1675, his brother Randal was high sheriff of the county of Antrim,
and in 1692, was one of the representatives in parliament for the
1697, he died in Dublin, leaving
borough of Lisburn. In September
two sons and two daughters. 9 An Edward Brice, who is alledged to
have been also son of Robert, was a colonel in the army, and settled
lo
in Belfast, where he died at an advanced age June 28th, 1726.
About 1720, Captain Charles Brice, an illegitimate son of Robert,
Robinson, resided at Castle-Chichester. He is said to have
by
;
*
5
4
5
6
James Balfour's Annals.

Tradition.
Registery of the Perogative Court.
Life of the Rev. Robert Blair.
Sir
Inscription at Templecoran.
Ibid.
MS. Lodge's Peerage.

MSS. Commons' Journals.
MSS.
"
Richard Chaplin
John Seeds
i/49> Willoughby Chaplin
Hon. Arthur Earl of Donenot appearing, Willoughby
1750, Rt.
gall
Same
Chaplin continued
1751, Willoughby Chaplin
Same
1
1752, Willoughby
Richard Chaplin
Kzekiel Wilson
Chaplin
married a Miss Curry, by whom he had three sons, viz. Edward,

Robert, and Arthur, and two daughters, one of whom, Dorothy,* was
married to
Charles is
Ennis, of Dromantine, county Down.
Edward, married Catharine,
reported to have died about 1746.
of
daughter
George Spaight, Carrickfergus in September 1779, 1 their
In
daughter Prudence, was married to George Bateson, of London.
Edward
was surveyor of the port of Belfast, and agent for the
1761,
French prisoners kept in that town he died at Castle-Chichester, July
Robert entered into the royal navy, was promoted to the rank of
1796.
admiral, and was also created a baronet. He married in England, Miss
Kingsmill, by whom he obtained a large fortune on assuming her
name which name his brother Edward also took soon after. Sir
;
Robert died at Sidmonston, Hampshire, November 22d, 1805, in his

75th year h; left no issue. Arthur was an officer in the guards, and
;
retained the
name
of Brice.
Edward, who, it is presumed, was son of Randal, married Jane,

daughter of Richard Dobbs, by whom he had two sons, Edward and
Alexander, and several daughters. In 1748, he was high sheriff of the
He died August nth, 1742, aged 83 years. His
county of Antrim.
married first Rose, daughter of A. Stewart,
he had the late Edward Brice, and several other
He married secondly, December igth, 1758, Jane Smith,
whom
alias, Adair, daughter of William Adair, army agent, London, by
he had several children, one of whom was married to Sir John
He died in old Bond Street, London, December, 1804.
Anstruther.
Edward who succeeded to the family estate, married Theodora,
She
daughter of Thomas Mullins, afterwards created Lord Ventry.
died in Dublin, Nov. 1807; he died July gth, 1815, leaving four sons
and the like number of daughters.
*
son of Henry, by
Henry Maxwell, of Finnybrogue, Esq., eldest
of Down and Connor,
Jane, daughter of Robert Ecklin, Bishop
of Robert Brice, of
married, for his second wife, Dorothy, daughter
Col. of t
Kilroot Esq., by whom he had Robert, his heir; Edward,
married to James
67th regiment of foot and one daughter, Margaret,
Adair of London, Esq., by whom she had James, one of his Majesty ^s
of London.
Lodge s
Sergeants at Law, and Recorder of the city
In 1831, Edward Brice, of the above family,
Peerage v. 3 p. 390.
died in London aged 51
changed his name to that of Bruce. 1823,
of Acton, County of
vears, Sir Robert Kingsmill. Bart.,
<;louces
Catherine
He was son of Edward Kingsmill. of Belfast Esq., by Sir
R
his " ncl
succeeded
He
..
of
Esq.
George Spaight,
daughter
fJ
died in November, iSo^.-Gentleman s
who
first
the
Baronet,
Kingsmill,
Bruce
re
note
family.]
also
Magazine. [See
*
'The Earl of Donegall had been first elected **
son
Edward
Ballintoy,
children.
by
in
1748,
whom
'
Wlloughby Chaplin
'Tradition.
petitioned
the
privy council
agamst
said
426
753. Valentine Jones,
sen. 1
John Seeds
Willoughby Chaplin continued

1755, Rt.
gall,
Ezekiel Wilsor
Same
Ellis*
Henry
1754,
Hon. Arthur Earl of Donenot appearing, Henry Ellis
Same
continued
J
Hon. Arthur Earl of Donenot appearing, Henry Ellis

continued *
756, Rt.
gall
Willoughby Chaplin
1757,
Henry Burleigh
John Seeds
Ezekiel Wilson
John Seeds
Henry Ellis*
Wilson'
1758, Hill
Same
1759, Francis Price

Will. Chaplin, dep.
1760, Rt. Hon. Arthur Earl of
Ezekiel
not
continued
gall,
Will.
appearing,
F.
Wilson
Thomas Ludford
DonePrice
Ezekiel
Wilson
John Seeds
Chaplin, dep.
which came to a trial on the 23d November, but the counci

rule, Willoughby Chaplin continued.
Gill's MSS.
Said Jones came here from Lisburn on the 28th
Sepr. 1753
when Wy. Chaplin & him had a conferrence & Concluded
matters,
after which pretending in the morning of his
sworn
into office,
being
that he had forgot the approbation at home, Chaplin and him went
return,
no
making
"
to the Castle,
but as he did not produce the approbation he was not
sworn Mayor, which I believe was settled between them, and which
I conclude to be an
unprecedented and unheard of Injustice." Gill's
MSS.
z
Sworn into office before Henry Gill, store-keeper of the castle,

there being no military quartered here at that time.
Gill's MSS.
3
June 28th, Richard Barry and Edward Brice appeared as candidates for the office of mayor; but some of Mr. Brice 's friends behaving
rather rudely, the mayor returned Mr. Barry duly elected.
Willoughby
Chaplin, the sheriffs, and several freemen, made a certificate of Mr.
Brice being duly elected, and sent a petition to the privy council to
that effect.
John Reynolds, weaver, deposed, that neither was duly
elected, on which a mandamus was issued on the 27th November, for
This election
a new election to be held on the 2oth January, 1757.
was held in the street the mayor was both judge of the court, and a
candidate
and by mutual agreement none but freemen really resident
were suffered to poll.
George Spaight, deputy recorder, was the
Edward
returning officer : Henry Ellis had a majority of 20 votes.
Brice, who lost this election, memorialed the privy council against the
In one
return, and numerous depositions were made on the subject.
" from time Immemorial been
of these it was declared, that it had
"
"to adjourn all contested Elections from the
the custom and usage
Court-house to the Street, for the greater ease of the Voters." Gill's
;
MS.
MSS.
4
was obtained against Willoughby Chaplin, in

Henry Ellis, late mayor, not attending to see him
office.
Henry Ellis served the office the remainder of the
Judgment
of ouster
consequence of
sworn into
year.
Father of Captain James Wilson, who, in 1776, was chosen one

Said
Antrim.
representatives in parliament for the county of
James died in London, March 1812.
5
of the
6
Agent
to the
Earl of Donegal!.
427
I76J, Francis
Earl
appearing, F.
of
not
Same
Price, continued
Will. Chaplin, dep.
1762, Francis Earl of Hertford, not
appearing, F. Price held over
Will. Chaplin, dep.
Same
Hon. Arthur Earl of Done-
Same
1763, Rt.
Hertford,
not appearing, F. Price held
gall,
over
Will. Chaplin,
1764, Francis Price
Will. Chaplin,
1765, Rt.
gall
1766, Rt.
gall
1767,
dep.
Same
dep.
Hon. Arthur Earl
of
Done-
Same
Hon. Arthur Earl
of
Done-
Stewart Banks
John Seeds
from
Henry
Ellis,
dep.
3d
November
Rt. Hon. Arthur Earl of Done-
Same
gall.
Ezekiel D. Wilson, dep.

1768, Rt. Hon. Arthur Earl of Done-
Same
gall.
Will. Chaplin, dep.

1769, Ezekiel D. Wilson
1770, Hercules Ellis
1771, Kenneth A. Price
1773, Henry Ellis
1774, Hercules Ellis
John Seeds
William Craig
Same
Same
Same
Same
Thomas Kirk
John Seeds

1776, Edward Brice Dobbs
1
1778, Edward Brice Dobbs
1780, William Kirk
1781, Ezekiel D.
Wilson
1782, William Kirk

1784, William Kirk
1786, William Kirk*
Same
Same
Same
Same
Same
Thomas Kirk
John Seeds, died
Robert Clements succeeded
Thomas Kirk
Robert Clements
Same
Same
Same
Same
Robert Clements
Thomas Legg
Same
1
In the summer of this year he rode the franchises of the
Corporation, agreeable to the boundaries as established in the reign of
On this occasion he was accompanied by the
Queen Elizabeth.
members of the different guilds, with their respective flags and martial
music.
2
On this gentleman going out of office, he was waited on by the
masters and wardens of the different guilds, and returned thanks for
his proper conduct while mayor.
3 In
August, 1787, Charles Manners, Duke of Rutland, arrived in
Carrickfergus, and was splendidly entertained by the Corporation.
1788,
1789,
1790,
1791,
Sir William
Kirk
Same
Same
Same
Thomas Kirk
Thomas l-t'gg
Ezekiel D. Wilson
Sir William Kirk
Ezekiel D. Wilson
1792, Sir
William Kirk

1794, Sir William Kirk
1796, Sir
Same
Same
Same.
Sir
William Craig
Thomas Kirk
Barry Martin
William Kirk
William Kirk
Ezekiel D. Wilson
Sir William
Marquis of
Sir William
Sir
William
1804,
1805, Marquis of
Sir
illiam
Clements
Thomas Kirk
Ezekiel D. Wilson
Sir
Robert
died in April.
William Kirk

1798,
1799,
iSoo,
1801,
1802,
1803,
'
Robert Clements
Thomas Kirk
Kirk
Donegall
Kirk, dcp.*
Kirk
Same
Same
Same
Same
Same
Same
Same
Same
Donegall
Kirk, dep.
1806, Noah Dal way

1807, Sir William 'Kirk
1809, Noah Dalway
1810, Ezekiel D. \Vilson
Same
Same
Same
Same
Thomas Kirk
Barry Martin died
Robt. M'Gowtui succeeded
1811,
Noah Dalway
Thomas Kirk
Robert M'Gowan
Same
Same *
William Kirk, dep.

Sir
1813,
Marquis of Donegall
William Kirk, dep.
Sir
"
On
the day of election, Thos. Legg made an objection to his

But on Michaelmas day following he refused being
sworn into office, and tendered his resignation, which was not accepted
He afterwards took the opinion of Counsel on the
by the mayor.
case, which was, that pursuant to the new Rules (He having Served
the office before), he could not be compelled to Serve, and would be
The opinion of Counsel further
punishable if he should attempt it.
Stated that the mayor and corporation Shou'd apply for a mandamus
to hold a new Election for a second Sheriff
but this was omitted, and
Thomas Kirk served the office alone for that yeare, and received the
being elected.
salaries of both Sheriffs."
MSS.
On
the night of July 23d, in this year, a partial rebellion broke

out in several parishes of the county of Antrim, and efforts were
previously made to organize an insurrection here, but without effect.
2 On
this occasion a sharp contest took place between the Marquis
and the Rev. Richard Dobbs 449 polled for the former, and 430 for
the latter.
;
September
annum, during
at an
1814, the Assembly granted Thomas Kirk ^20 per

He died May 1816,
his life, for his corporate services.
advanced age.
429
William Kirk
1814, Sir
Thomas
Same
Noah Dahvay
1816,
Millar
John Campbell
1815, Marquis of Donegall

Sir William Kirk, dep.
Same
William Kirk, dep.

Marquis of Donegall
Sir William Kirk, dep. 3
1818, Rev. Richard Dobbs
Sir
Charles V. Joyce
Andrew M'NcA'in
1817,
1819, Ezekiel
1820, Rev.
D. Wilson.
Thomas
Millar
George Burleigh
Richard Dobbs
Marquis of Donegall
R. Dobbs, dep.
1822, Lord Belfast
Rev. R. Dobbs, dep.
Rev. Richard Dobbs, dep.
1824, Sir Arthur Chichcster, Bart.
Rev. Richard Dobbs, dep., who
died August i2th, 1825
Thomas
Edward Chichcster
Rev. John Dobbs, dep.
Rev. John Dobbs, dep.
1827, Sir Arthur Chichester, Bart.
John Campbell
1821,
Rev.
1825, Rev.
1828,
No Election Sir A. Chichester,

Bart,
and the Sheriffs merely
held over.
:
1829, Rev.
Samuel Smith,
March.
'
James A. Farrel
Hugh Kennedy
James Owens \Geo.P.Pitce,
David Gordon / deputy.
dep.
from
Millar
*
Hon.
J. Jocelyn
Peter Kirk
Henry Adair
Thomas
Millar
Marriot Dahvay
Peter
Kirk
Marriot Dalway
Thomas
Millar
John Campbell
Thomas
Millar
John Campbell
Thomas
Millar
John Campbell
Thomas
Millar died on
the i5th December, 1828
John Campbell
John M'Cance (see
note)
These sheriffs paid particular attention to the duties of their

office, and to keeping the streets of the town free from nuisances,
which for many years had been suffered to remain in a shameful state.
Their proper conduct was several times publicly noticed by the judges
of assize.
2
Died June 17111, 1819, aged 77 years. He left his landed posseswhich were considerable, and entirely of his own accumulation,
second son Peter, and bequeathed ^50 to the poor of the
sions,
to his
to each
parish of Carrickfergus, to be divided in sums of five shillings
claimant.
(See notice of the Kirk family.)
3
Was son of Henry Burleigh. He died at Burleigh-hill, May i6th,
benevolence
1822, aged 78 years, much regretted as a person of general
to his
Having no issue he bequeathed his estate
hospitality.
died
nephew John Robinson. In January, 1824, his widow, Rebecca,
on the 26th same month, she was interred at
in Dublin, aged 82
and
Carrickfergus.
4
He died January
Close.
Was son of Davys Wilson, by
Having never been married, he bequeathed
27th, 1821, aged 83 years.
who soon
his estate to his second cousin, the Rev. Robert Duncan,
after took the name of Wilson.
all
8
Did not attend to be sworn into office Mr. Millar performing
the duties of both sheriffs during this year.
atti
The Mayor and his Deputy are non-resident, and rarely
;
the duties of the office
430
not appearing
1830, Rev. John Dobbs
to
be sworn into office,
the
Marquis of Donegall held over ;
;
and
Lord
in
June,
Edward
the
1831,
Rev.
Chichester
was
appointed deputy.
1831, Thomas B. Adair; neither the
mayor nor his deputy appearing
on the usual day of swearing the
into
mayor-elect
John Campbell
John M'Cance
office,
John Campbell
Marriott
Dalway
the
Marquis of Donegall held over.
Thomas
1832,
B. Adair (see note)
John Campbell
Marriott
1833, Peter
Kirk
John Dobbs not appearing

to
be sworn into office, Mr.
Kirk held over.
Peter Kirk held over.
1834, Rev.
1835,
Kirk
held
over
Henry
Adair, deputy, part of the time.
Kirk held over
1837, Peter
Henry
Adair, deputy, from ayth of May.
*
1838, Marriott Dal way
1836, Peter
1839, Marriott
Dal way held over.
Dalway
George Forsythe
John Legg
John Legg
George Forsythe
George Forsythe
John Legg
George Forsythe
John Legg
George Forsythe
John Legg
George Forsythe
John Legg
George Forsythe
John Legg
(1841-2, Marriott Dalway)
No. XVIII.
From
the
MEMOIRS
Sinclair's
SIR JAMES TURNER, an Officer of

who
landed at Car rick fergus, April,
Regiment,
of
264.2.
Edinburgh, printed, 1829.
" AFTER we had refreshed a
little, Major-Generall Monro left seven or
eight hundreth men in Craigfergus, and went to the field with the
rest,
among whom was my Lieutenant-Colonell and I
my Lord
Conway went along also with neere two thousand English. In the
woods of Kilwarning we rencountered some hundreths of the rebells,
who, after a short dispute, fled. These who were taken got bot bad
This was too much used by both
quarter, being all shot dead.
a thing inhumane and
English and Scots all along in that warre
;
for the
of one enemie cannot excuse
cruelti*
the
inhumanitie of ane other. And heerin also their revenge overmastered
their discretion, which sould have taught them to save the lives of
disavouable,
8th, 1838, in consequence of a writ of Mandamus from the

of Queen's Bench, a court was opened by the Deputy Mayor,
for the election of a Mayor and Sheriffs.
The Marquis of Donegall
and Marriott Dalway were candidates for the office of Mayor, and at
the conclusion of the poll on the third day the number of votes were
Mr.
for Marriott Dalway, 356; for the Marquis of Donegall, 151.
Dalway and the Sheriffs were sworn into office on the 25th of June.
At the conclusion of the poll for Sheriffs the following were the
number of votes for each : George Forsythe, 402 John Legg, 387 ;
May
Court
Stewart Dunn, 96; John Campbell,
53.
43*
these they tooke, that the rebells might doe the like to their
prisoners
Then we marched straight to the Neurie, where the Irish had
easilie
seized on his Majesties castle, wherein
they found abundance of
ammunition, which gave them confidence to proclaime their rebellion.
The fortification of the toune being bot begunne, it came immediatelie
in our hands; bot the rebells that were in the
castle keepd it tuo
days, and then delivered it up upon a very ill-made accord, or a very
ill-keepd one ; for the nixt day most of them, with many merchands
and tradesmen of the toune, who had not beene in the castle, were
carried to the bridge and butcherd to death, some
by shooting, some
by hanging, and some by drowning, without any legall processe and
was verilie informed afterwards, that severall innocent people
I
suffered.
Monro did not at all excuse himselfe from haveing accession
to that carnage, nor could he purge himselfe of it
thogh my Lord
Conway, as Marshall of Ireland, was the principall actor. Our sojors
sometimes
are
for
no
other
reason
bot because mans
(who
cruell,
wicked nature leads him to be so, as I have shoune in my Discourse
of Crueltie) seeing such prankes playd by authoritie at the
bridge,
thought they might doe as much any where els ; and so runne upon
;
a hundreth and
women
or thereby, who had got together in a

they resolved to massacre by killing and
drouning which villanie the sea seemed to favour, it being then flood.
Just at that time was I speaking with Monro, but seeing a fare off
what a game these godless rogues intended to play, I got a horseback
and galloped to them with my pistol! in my hand bot before I got at
them they had dispatchd about a dozen
the rest I savd.
This
execution had not the successe which Conway and Monro had
themseives
for
instead
of
the
rebells
from
their
promised
terrifieing
wonted cruelties, it inraged them, and occationed the murthering of
some hundreths of prisoners whom they had in their pouer. Sir
Phelomey Oneale, the ringleader of the rebellion, hearing of the losse
of the Neurie, in a beastilie furie burnt the toune of Armagh, where
he then was, and as much of the Cathedrall as fire could prevaile
over, and then retired himselfe to the woods and bogs.
"
My Lieutenant-Colonell stayd at the Neurie, haveing got tuo
hundreth commanded men added to his oune, till I sould bring up
from Craigfergus as many of the regiment as were comd from Scotland.
Accordingly I went thither with the armie we tooke our march through
fiftie
place below the bridge,
whom
woodes and mountaines of Morne, where severall rebells were

I do remember that there we sufferd
killed, and many cows taken.
one of the most stormie and tempestuous nights for haile, raine, cold,
and excessive wind, (thogh it was in the beginning of May,) that ever
It was not
All the tents were in a trice bloune over.
I yet saw.
or any sojor to handle his musket,
possible for any matche te keep fire,
or yet to stand yea severalls of them dyed that night of meere cold.
So that if the rebells, whereof there were 500 not farre from us, had
which
offerd to beate up our quarters with such weapons as they had,
were halfe pikes, suords, and daggers, which they call skeens, they
and
wold undoubtedlie have had a cheap market of us. Our sojors,
some of our officers too, (who suppose that no thing that is more than
hurnkan to the
ordinarie can be the product of nature), attributed this
and if that was true then I am
devilish skill of some Irish witches
sure their master gave us good proofe that he was reallie prim
the
the aire."
43*
Jan.
12,
1559,
i5 8 5.
1613,
1635,
Members of Parliament.
James Wyngfield, 1
1
Humphrey Warren,
Sir Edward Waterhouse,*
Thomas Stephenson,*
Thomas Hibbots,*
Humphrey Johnston,*
Henry
Upton/
room
in
for their attending

147 days, ,98.
of
Humphrey Johnston,
Wages
deceased.
William Sambeck,*
John Davys,'
1640, Sir
The ? e Parliaments
sat at Westwhich Ireland sent

]
Thirty Members.
he' sat in Oliver Cromwell's
1658, Colonel J. Duckenfield
Parliament, held at Westminster.
Hercules
1661,
Davys,
Arthur Upton, 12
1654, Daniel Redmond," )

1656, John Daws,"
m mster
,
'
to
,_
1
Master of the Ordnance in Ireland, and an active officer serving
under the lord deputy Sidney. Lodge's Peerage.
I
Resided at Warrenstown, King's county. Lodge's Collections.
*
Chancellor of the Exchequer.
He was from Hertford, and came
to Ireland with Sir John Perrot
at this time he dwelt at CastleWaterhouse, Ferns. October 13, 1591, he died at Woodchurch, county
Kent. Lodge's Collections.
*
;
An Alderman
of
Carrickfergus,
who
possessed
considerable
which he bequeathed to his son of the same

name, who sold it to Sir Arthur Chichester. In the records of Carrick"
Thos.
fergus of 1610, is the following notice regarding him.
Stephensone, Gent, voluntarily went upon the Sweden Viodge, where
he died." In 1612, his son Thomas was an apprentice to William
Wills, stone mason.
s
Chancellor of the Exchequer, and son-in-law of the above
at Cottendstown, county Kildare.
He
resided
Stephenson.
Lodge's
Collections.
*
An Alderman of Carrickfergus some of his descendants are now
property in that town,
paupers.
Came to Ireland a captain in the army of the Earl of Essex.

September, 1628, he married Mary, daughter of Sir Hugh Clotworthy,
by whom he had four sons and three daughters. Lodge's Peerage.
*
in
Dublin.
resided
General for Ireland
Lodge's
Attorney
7
Collections.
*
Son and heir of Ezekiel Davys, Carrickfergus.

Major in the army of Oliver Cromwell.
MS.
"A
II
Was
chosen but not permitted to take his seat, being charged

to the Government.
Secretary Thurloe writing to
Henry Cromwell, from Whitehall, September gth, 1656, says, that
John Davys is a great favourer of the royal cause, and that he must
be looked after, as he was "a most pestilent fellow;" and that hr
would send for him to Dublin, that his coming to England might be
Henry Cromwell in his answer, dated from Kilkenny,
prevented.
but
September 23d, says, he never heard of Davys before his letter,
had since learnt that he was "a very naughty man," and not fit to
sit "in that council," and that he had taken care to stop him.
with
disaffection
12
Son of Henry Upton just noticed. He was a rigid Presbyterian,
and a steady opposer of the usurpations of Oliver Cromwell. By his
433
The
1689,
charter being suspended by James II. no

members
to his
Parliament, held in Dublin
1
were returned
Henry Clements,
Henry Davys,
1692,
1695, Hercules Davys,
Henry Davys,
Edward Lyndon,
Henry Davys,
1703,
1709, Alexander Denton

I
7 I 3i John Davys,
in
room
of
Henry Davys
deceased
Arthur Davys,
1715, Alexander Dalway,
Archibald Edmonston, 1
1718,
Edward
1727,
Arthur Dobbs,
3
John Lyndon,
Arthur Upton ;* in place of John Lyndon, deceased.
Marriot Dalway,*
Arthur Upton,
Con way R. Dobbs, 6
room
in
Lyndon;
Alexander
of
Dalway,
deceased.
1742,
1761,
1768,
Hon. John Chichester,

wife Dorothy, daughter of Michael Beresford, Coleraine, he had
eight
sons and ten daughters.
His son Clotworthy, born January, 1665,
succeeded to the family estate, and in 1689, he raised a body of men,
and joining King William's army before Limerick, led the forlorn
hope1 at the assault of that fortress. Lodge's Peerage.
Son of Edward Clements, Straid, and one of those who signed
the Antrim Association in 1688, for which he was attainted by King
James's parliament, in May, 1689. MS. State of the Protestants.
*
He was second son of Archibald Edmonston, Redhall, near
His elder brother, William, being deaf and dumb, he
Carrickfergus.
succeeded to the Braidisland property, and married Anna Helena,
daughter of colone.1 Walter Scott, and relict of Sir William Adair, of
Elizabeth, the
Kilhill, by whom he had four sons and five daughters.
eldest, was married to James Montgomery, Rosemount, to whom she
whom
became lord
of
had two sons, William and Hugh, the former
of Ards the youngest daughter, Anne Ellen, was married to Alexander
Archibald died at Redhall, December 25th, 1768, aged 88
Dalway.
;
years.
1
MS.
Son
of
Sir
John
He
Lyndon.
Dublin, August 23d, 1741.
Gill's
died
'in
Great
Britain-street,
MS.
Son of John Upton, sixth son of Henry, by Mary, daughter of

Francis Upton
and one of the third generation of that family who
He was
had represented the town of Carrickfergus in parliament.
twice married, but had no issue, and deceased at Bath, September 28th,
1768.
Lodge's Peerage.
On the above occasion Francis Clements, Straid, was first returned
Robert Dalway, who had
to parliament in the room of John Lyndon.
of an
lost the election, petitioned the House of Commons, complaining
undue election and return, and the Committee appointed to examine
Another election
the same, declared that neither was duly elected.
but
took place, and George Evans was returned, and took his seat
on the 25th January, 1742, the House declared, that he was not duly
in
seat
his
on which Arthur Upton, the other candidate, took
;
elected;
the House.
8
Journals of the Irish House of
The candidates and number
of
votes
Commons.
were as follows
Arthur
Hon. Arthur Barry 192.

Marriot Dalway, 341
Upton, 441
C
hester,
Candidates and number of votes for each Hon. John
Edward Smyth, 71.
392 Conway R. Dobbs, 371 Marriot Dalway, 333
;
29
434
1776,
Con way R. Dobbs,

Barry Yelverton,
Hon. Barry Yelverton,
1783, Right
1784,
Conway R. Dobbs,
Waddel Cunningham 2
made chief baron
;
in the
of the
room
of Barry Yelverton,
Exchequer.
D. Wilson ; in the place of

declared not duly elected.
1785, Ezekiel
1790, Alexander
D.
Ezekiel
Hamilton,3
Wilson,
Waddel Cunningham,
Lord Spencer
S. Chichester,
Ezekiel D. Wilson,
Lord
Belfast; in room of Lord Spencer S. Chichester,
1798,
resigned.
i799,Noah Daiway ; in room of Lord Belfast, who succeeded
on the death of his father to the peerage.
The first member to the Imperial
1801, Noah Daiway.
Parliament.
1797,
1802, Lord Spencer S. Chichester,*

1807, James Craig
\ in the room of Lord Spencer
6
S. Chichester resigned.
1807, James Craig,
J
7
1812, Arthur Chichester,
1818, Lord Belfast,
1820, Sir Arthur Chichester, bart.
1826, Sir Arthur Chichester, bart.
1830, Lord Geo. A. Hill,*
1831, Lord George A. Hill.t
1832, Conway R. Dobbs,
;
February 7th, 1784, the Lisburn Constitution Club, consisting of

members, led by their president Dr. Alexander Crawford, and
accompanied by a large body of the freemen in the interest of
Mr. Cunningham entered the town. The members of the Club were
distinguished by a cockade of orange and blue colour, on which were
imprinted "CONSTITUTION CLUB: FOR FREEDOM OF ELECTION." They
walked through the principal streets, and distributed a printed address,
signed, Robert Bell, Secretary, in which they promised to make
compensation to all persons who might be in the least injured by
In the evening
giving their votes at the election about to commence.
At the close of this
they entertained Mr. Cunningham at dinner.
were
as
follows
number
of
votes
for
Waddel
the
election,
Cunningham,
464 Hon. Joseph Hewit, 279.
s
Ezekiel D. Wilson, 830
Candidates and number of votes
175
Alexander Hamilton, 617 Edward Brice, 368 Francis Dobbs, 55.

*
Candidates and votes for each: Lord Spencer S. Chichester, 611;
Ezekiel D. Wilson, 523
James Craig, 363.
5
Number of votes for Lord Spencer S. Chichester, 381 Ezekiel
D. Wilson, 270.
*
This gentleman was first elected in April, by a majority of 41
;
votes,
in
to
opposition
Edward
May,
Jun.
Esq.
brother
to
the
Marchioness of Donegall. Parliament being dissolved immediately after,

another election took place between the same persons, and Mr. Craig
was again chosen by a majority of 42 votes.
T
Number of votes Sir Arthur Chichester, 460 Ezekiel D. Wilson,
:
406.
* For an
extraordinary petition presented against him, see a few
pages over.
t
Lord Hamilton F. Chichester offered himself on

few days, he resigned.
but, after a brisk canvass of a
this
occasion,
435
1835, Peter Kirk,*
1837, Peter Kirk.t
No.
The Boundaries of
the
XX.
County of the Town of Carrickfergus,

by Queen Elizabeth.
as establshed
WHEREAS there was a Commission under her Majesties

great Seale
bearinge Date the loth day of June, 1601, & in the forty three yeare
of her Majesties most gracious Reigne, directed unto Us Sr.
Geffrey
Fenton Knt. Survevr. Generall, or his Deputy, Sr. Edward
Moore, knt.
Sr. Foulke Conway, knt. Charles
Calthrop, Esquire, Attorney Generall]
Sr. Arthur Chichester, knt. John
Dallway, Gregory Norton, Charles
Eggerton, Counstable of the Castell of Carrigfergus, & his ViceCounstable, Givinge and Grauntinge full power and aucthoritye unto
us or any fower of us, whereof the said Sr. Arthur
Chichester, knt.
Sr. Geffrey Fenton, knt. or his deputye as
Surveyor, and the Counstable
of the Castell, or his Vice-Counstable to be three to vewe,
survey,
Lymytt, assigne, & Set owt by the oathes of one good & Sufficient
Jury, & all other lawfull manes accordinge to our best discressiones,
certentye Scirrytt, quantitye, and nature, of all the tenamants,
of pasture, and hereditaments, aunciently belonginge to the
Corporacion of Carrickfergus, and which have alwayes or of a longe
tyme contynewed in their manurance, graisinge & possession. (Here
" the owld
it is noticed that the Commissioners are of opinion
that
Stone called Goodburn, and the hospittall of Spittell," "with some six
-akers of land, or thereabouts, auncientlye belonginge to the Pallace
knowen by the name of Saint Francis Abbey doth appertaine to her
"
yt is challandged by the said Corporacion, as past unto
Majestic,"
them by her Majestic in there charter.") Next follows the finding of
the Jury.
"
doe finde that the Landes auncientlie belonginge unto the
Corporacion of Carrickfergus, is Sittuated & bounded within the meares
& markes followinge viz. From the North East ende of the Sd. Towne
leadinge by the Sea Side, unto a Stream or Small River called
Copeland, waiter, which devideth the Townes landes & the landes
and then from the
belonginge to the Bishopp of Downe and Connor
Sea Side alongst by the Sd. watter side to a forde called Annagullmyn
North North West, from the enteringe
<alias, Clubbes-forde), beinge
of Copelande watter into the Sea, which Forde is the furdest part &
boundes of the earrable landes, meadowe, & pasture, that appertainethe
And from the Said Clubbes Forde West
to the Same Towne that wave
South West directlie alongst a meare & ditche Syde to the South end
the
comons
WE
of Loughmoorne.
And So contenewinge from thence full West South West, to a hill
Lark's hill), and to a hill called
called Carnehusshocke (alias,
'*Sir Arthur Chichester again offered himself to the electors, but
he did not come into court on the day of the election. Thomas Verner,
but after some debate he also
Esq., was proposed at the bustlings,
retired.
was war
t On this occasion the representation of the Borough
for whom
-contested bv Matthew B. Renie, a gentleman from London,
Two
for Mr. Kirk
petitions were
and
electors
446
polled
418
in which he
afterwards presented against the return of Mr. Kirk,
h
was charged with many high crimes, particularly in corrupting
formidabk
but before the day appointed. 3rd of April, for these
-electors
were withdrawn.
petitions being heard they
;
43 6
Carnesolloghe And from thence Still devidinge the Earable landes,.
meadowe, & pasture from the Comons, South-west directlie to little
Dunecrowe, and over the Forde of Larbricke, Southwest to the Forde
of Turnegrawee, allongst the back of the
Knockaghe, to a meare or
mark
called
furdest part
Faserisneey
and boundes
the Deares layne), which is also the

the Earrable landes meadowe & pasture
(alias
of
belonginge to the Towne that wave And from thence turninge Sovvthe
to a small Streame or Rever called Lysnashemer which runethe Sowthe
into the Sea, and devydethe the Townes landes and the Earles
medowe And from thence leadinge by the Sea Side North East,
unto the foresaid Towne of Carigfergus.
We do also finde, that the
Comons for graisinge, Turbrie, Heathe, and all other Fewells
reatchethe from the above-named Forde Annagullmyn (alias Clubbes
Forde), North North West over the inoorie, Heathye, & Boggie hills,
to a forde called Avalley-shione (alias Johnstownes forde) l beinge the
uttermoste parte & boundes of the Saide Comons that waye.
And from thence leadinge to an oulde Stone walle called Ralowe
And from thence directlie west South west to a Hill called Browsley,
which is also the uttermost Part & Boundes of the Comons that
waye And from thence turninge Southe to the fore-named meare or
marke called Faseris-neey (alias the Deares Layne), which is all the
boundes of the Comons belonginge to the Same Towne.
All which
landes, within those boundes markes & meares before mentioned, with
all woode underwoods, Bogges, Heathe, Meadowes, pastures Comons
of graisinge and Torburie, doth auncientlie belonge and appertaine to
the Towne & Corporacion of Carrigfergus, & ever in their manurance
graisinge & Possession.
Within which boundes there is a rewenated & decayed Abbaye
called Goodburne, & St. Brides Hospittall, called the Spittall Howse
(which is found to be her majesties), with a Small quantetye of landes
to them belonginge, which are bounded Severallye within themselves.
In witness whereof we have hereunto Subscribed our names & annexed
1601.
our Scales the i2th daye of October anno Dom
Richd. Butler
William Dobin, foreman. Richd. Conlan
Willm. Ledall
Henry Spearepoint
Humfrey Johnston
:
Robert Lyndon
John Thomas
Willm. Turkman
John Savage
Thos. Stevenson
James Birte
Thomas M'Manus
Walter Holman
Thos. Vaughan
John Lugg
Henrie Ochforde
Thos. Bashforde
John M'Carne
Brian O'Carr
John Clarke
Turlogh Hyan
Phillipp Kellie
Neall M'Collam
Boundaries as established by James
I.
James, by the Grace of God of England, Scotland, France and

To all to whom
Ireland, King, Defender of the Faith and so forth
Know ye that we of our special
these presents shall come, greeting.
the
assent of our
with
Grace, certain knowledge and mere motion,
right well beloved and trusty councellor Sir Arthur Chichester, knight
our Deputy General of our said Kingdom of Ireland, and according to
the tenure and effect of Letters Patent, of Commission, made under
our great seal of England, dated at Westminster the 26th day of
March, in the fourth year of our reign of England, France and Ireland,
and of Scotland the 4oth, to our said Deputy General and others
directed and enrowled in our Rolls of our Chancery of our said
Kingdom of Ireland and at the humble request of the Mayor, Sheriffs,
CarrickBurgesses, and Commonality, of the County of the Town of
HAVE given and granted, and by these presents DO for US
fergus.
;
Avallcy-Shione,
now
Ballyshane, or Johns-Town.
437
our
and successors, give and grant unto the said Mayor, Sheriffs,
Burgesses and Commonality, of the County of the Town of Carrickfergus, alias Knockfergus, and their successors, for ever, that the said
Town or Borough of Carrickfergus, alias, Knockfergus, with all the
lands, tenements and hereditaments, of or within the said Town or
Borough, with their appurtenances and all lands tenements and other
hereditaments, whatsoever, lying near the town of Knockfergus, alias,
Carrickfergus, at the northern side of the bay of Knockfergus, alias,
Carrickfergus, viz. being within the mares, bounds and limits following,
viz.
On the eastern side a small river called Copeland Water, is the
boundary of said land near Broden-Island, from the bay of Carrickheirs
fergus aforesaid, as far as until the said river runs into another river
called Orland Water, and from thence the boundary of the said land
extends through the middle of the said river of Orland Water, as far
as the lough called Loughmorne, and so by the south-west bank of
said lough, and so from the extreme N.W. point of said lough the
boundary of said land runs directly near the mountain called Redmountain, as far as the foard of Aghnehawly on the borders of the
territory of Bellenowre, and from thence to the head of the Red-river,
and so far. And thence, through the middle of the bog of Ceskenemeddy, and so to the long stone called Carcain, and from thence to the
three stones called Slewenkrioven, the limits of Ballinlyny, and Ballynowre, aforesaid, and to the bog on the Glynn of Altnabredagh, on the
limits of Ballinlyny, and so to the Carneshalagh, on the limits of the
territory of Carntall, and from thence as far as Altballimanagh, and
-so to Fasser-neagh, alias the Deer's-lane, and from thence as far as
the head of a certain small stream called Silver-stream, and the lands
of the town of Knockfergus, alias Carrickfergus, aforesaid, which river
beginning near Fasser-neagh, aforesaid, is the western boundary of
said lands, and runs between the same and the territory of Carntall,
and also that
aforesaid, as far as the bay of Carrickfergus aforesaid
the entire scope, ambit, and precint of land and water, within the
;
mears and bounds, abovementioned, and expressed belongs to

the Corporation of Knockfergus, aforesaid.
limits,
At a
Town of
riding of the Franchise of the County of the
on Monday the ist of August, 1785,
Carrickfergus,
pursuant to notice given by order of William Kirk, esquire,

of said town, for the time being.
found the lands at present subject to pay cess and other
the
Taxes, to said Corporation, are all situated and bounded within
Mayor
It
is
mares and marks following, viz.

From Town N.E. to the Copeland-water, bounded by the sea,
water to the Copeland bridge,
nearly N.N.W. up the course of said
bounded on the N.E. by the bishop of Down and Connor, and on the
S.W. by Ezekiel Davys Wilson,
esq.
From Copeland Bridge up said river to the foot of Cross-mury,

bounded on the N.E. by Conway Richard Dobbs, and Mariot Dalway,
West by Ezekiel Davys Wilson, esquire.
or pound, and
nearly N.N.W. to Clubb's ford,
Ferran s
from thence to a gate the entrance of the Park-moss, called
of said Moss, bounded by Mariot
gate, from which through the middle
on the
Dalway esquire, on the S. W. by Richard G. Ker, esquire,
the Ladit
to
ford, about twenty perches below
esquires
and on the
S.
From Cross-mary,
N.E.
Johnston's
1U
From' the upper end of said Moss round John Calbraith's house,
which is the farthest limit of Corporation, that way.
From John Calbraith's house about W. by Craigbuy farm, to the

Dead Wife's Grave, bounded on the N.W. by Lord Dungannon, and
on the S.E. by Mariot Dalway, esquire.
From the Dead Wife's Grave, by a stone ditch over a small river
to the corner of a ditch near the Priest's Cairn, and thence nearly
west to the old wall of Raloo, within about fifty perches of the
Standing Stone, and then between Mr. Lyndon's and Mr. Dobbs's
land, to George Patterson's house.
From said George Patterson's going nearly south and keeping Mr.
Ellis 's and Capt. Crimble's estate,
which they hold from Conway
Richard Dobbs, esquire, to the westward, and turning westwardly
along the wall that divides Me. Cann's field from the Englishman'sMountain, at which place there has been great encroachments made
on the Corporation, from said place to the Standing Stone.
From the Standing Stone along said mountain to three lying
stones commonly called the Three Brothers.
From the three lying stones about W.N.W. along a ditch on the
N.E. side of Straidanahana to Bruslee flush, or lower end of Straidanahana, which is the farthest bound of the Corporation at that place.
From Bruselee flush southerly to the Ree-hill, and along said hilf
by the march ditch, between said hill and Carntall, observing the
then turning about S.E. along the west sideturnings of said ditch
of my Lord's Mountain to the head of James Anderson's farm.
From James Anderson's farm down the S.W. side by a rivulet
called Silver Stream, which runs nearly south to the sea, and bounds
;
the Corporation all the way.

From the mouth of said stream the sea is the bounds into town.
Names of people present at aforesaid Riding.
William Kirk, esquire, Mayor.
Alex. Gunning, esq. Deputy Recorder.
Robert Clements, esquire,
Thomas
Kirk, esquire,
Sheriffs
No. XXI.
Tenants of the Corporation of Carrickfergus in 16*4, //J/ r

and 1820, with the sums paid by each.
Earl Donegall
Anthony Horseman
Anthony Hall
Andrew Willoughby
Andrew Gardner
Amos Derby
Bryan M'Manus
'
Crook's heirs
Cornet Bashford
Edmond Davys
Edward Hall
Edward Edwards
George Gravott
Henry Davy's
Henry Burns
Henry Clements
Hugh Lyndon
1674, Half year's Rent.

James Dobbin
7 19 6
t 16
John Johnstone
7
o
o
3 10
237
009
o
i
293
o
092
004^
039
050
300
o
3
18
John Lyndon
John Kane
John Orpin's executors
12
048
020
o 12 S
o 16 10
Jacob Household
James Parks
John Davys
John Powell
John Hinch
John Magee
John White
John Edgar
James Savage
John Byrte
Jasper Harper
James Dobbin
John Hall's widow
John Stubb's executors
John Purdy
John Garvan
John Dallway's execu-
tors
026
070
076
030i
009n
o
i
12
050-
034
o
i
092
o
3
15
439
John M' Bride
Mathew Grey
Michael Savage
006
020
071
executors
Nicholas Wills
Patrick Savage
Patrick M' Craven's
Mathew Johnston's
034
o
o
assignees
Robert Welsh's executors
o 10 5
o i 10
o i 6
Richard Tennison
Robert Dalway
Richard Newton
Robert Witter
Richard Conlan
Richard Russel
Robert Wills 's heirs
Richard Johnston's
on
050
n o
034
050
003
i
executors
Richard Stacy's executors
199
Solomon Faith
Salaries and
Mavor
Sheriffs
Recorder
Sword Bearer
Three Serjeants at Mace
The king's rent, with Exchequer
For receiving and delivering the
Rent of Guard-house
Militia
Drummer
Looking
to the
Church Clock
'73'-
Earl Donegall
Thomas Bashford
6 10
o 3
William Bashford
John M' Bride
Robert Byrt
James Byrt's heirs
Lord V. Hillsborough
006
048
080
Nathaniel Byrt
John Brown's heirs

Joan Coapy
Charles Crymble
Cornelius Crymble 's
heirs
Francis Clements
For Customhouse and

Watch-house
David M'Culloch
John Chaplin
Mathias Calvart
Elizabeth
Dawson
Anthony Dobbin
William Dobbin
o
o
o
10
o
i
ig
006
734
7
15
o
o
003
0068
o
034
056
i
440
Ez. D. Wilson
2
John White's executors o
f
Thomas Young
Henry Mulholland
William Jamfrey
Richard Kane, (col.)
James Keenaghan
Edward Lyndon
Henry Magee
James Morrison
Bryan M'Manus
Henry Newton
Margaret Newton
Thomas
Orpin's heirs
Jane Pottinger
John Purdy
Thomas Pemberton
Widow Powell
Garret Railey
Jane Russel
Nicholas Redworth
James Savage
Thomas Savage
James Savage
441
1820.
Year's Rent.
442
Tinnunculus, Kestril or
Wind Hover, Peepe Hawk.
Nisus, Sparrow-hawk, frequently seen.

Strix Otus,
Common
Owl, heard sometimes when flying at
night.
Corvus Comix, Hooded Crow, commonly called the Grey

never more than one pair have been seen together.
Crow
Corax, Raven, builds in the holes of the rocks at
Knockogh.
Frugilegus, the Rook, often seen in large flocks.
Monedula, Jackdaw, common ; breeds at the Knock-
ogh
hill.
Graculus, Chough, red legged Jackdaw, frequents

same places as the last, where it breeds, but is not so
common.
Pica, Magpie ; common.
the
Sturnus Vulgaris, Stare, rather
rare.
Cinclus, Waterhen, frequently seen on the banks of

remote streams, where it breeds.
Rallus Crex, Corn Craik, Land Rail, migrates. These birds

numbers about the end of April. The
earliest they have been heard calling was the iyth April, and the
arrive in considerable
latest the i4th August.

January loth, 1788, eight or ten
brace of these birds were flushed amongst the rocks at the
Knockogh, one of which was shot it was rather lean.
Rallus Aquaticus, Water Rail, very rare;

seen were shot during winter.
the only ones
Tetrao Perdix, Partridge; common.
Those
Seoticus, Grouse, Moorcock, rather rare.
seen here resort amongst the heath, where some of them breed ;
they are scarcer than formerly, and are said to pass from hence
to Agnew's-hill and Ballyboley mountains.
Coturnix, Common Quail, usually called Wet my
foot; this last name is taken from its note, which in sound it
much resembles. The earliest this bird has been heard calling
was the 3d May, and latest the 6th September they seem to delight in showery weather, calling more frequently at those
times.
These birds frequent meadows and corn fields, and are
believed to migrate, though some have been shot here during
:
winter.
Tringa Vanellus, Pewit, Green Plover, common in boggy

places, where they breed.
443
Cinclus, Pir, Purr, seen on the shore,
and breeds
in
Mew-isle.
frequents
retires in
Hy-poleucos,
the banks of
Sand Lark,
Woodburn
May, and
and Loughmorne:
arrives early in
river,
Autumn.
Labata, shot on the shore of the bay ; rare.

Charadrius Pluvialus, Grey Plover, arrives in autumn, and
remains on the hills during winter.
Hiaticttla,
bay
pretty
common on
the shores
of the
migrates.
Caladris, Sanderling,
common on
the sea shore.
Scolopax Rusticola, Woodcock, usually arrives in the latter

end of October; but some have been killed on the first of
In moderate weather they remain on the most
that month.
remote parts of the hills or mountains, but if the weather is
severe they come near the shore in quest of food.
They
generally migrate in March ; a few years ago one was shot near
the shore on the ist May.
Sportsmen describe two kinds of
this bird as seen here; the large
much
bird
kind
is
most common, and
is
darkest in colour; the other slender, and rather a rare

the tail large in proportion to its body, with shades of
a reddish brown
-
called the Jack-cock.
it is
Ar quota, Common Curlew,
plenty on the shores of
this bay.
PJuzopus, Little Curlew, seen on the shores, and

about half the size of the last.
Gillinago,
and marshes, where

often
soars
singular
in
the
drumming
years ago one was
it
is
Snipe, Heather-bleater, frequents bogs

breeds.
During the breeding season it
air to a considerable height, emitting a

few
noise like the bleating of a goat.
shot on the Commons, which was nearly
white.
Scolopax Gallinula, Jack Snipe, frequents marshy places,

but
is
much
smaller than the snipe.

Calidris,
Red Shank, sometimes
seen on the shore.
Turdus Pilaris, Fieldfare, Phelt, arrives in October, and

migrates about the end of April.
the same
Hiatus, Redwing, arrives and retires about
rarer.
time as the last, but is much
Merula, Blackbird, very common.
Musicus, Thrush, very common.
Viscivorus, Missel Thrush, often
heard
singing
444
early in the year, in the
most stormy weather.
beating off such birds as approach

in the cleft of a low tree.
its
nest;
It is
very bold,
and always builds
Phasianus Colchicus, Pheasant a few years ago some of

birds settled at Prospect, where they are now pretty
numerous.
Cuculus Canorus, Cuckoo, usually arrives about the latter
end of April.
During twenty years observation, the earliest
she has been heard calling was the lyth April, and the latest
:
these
the 30th June;

is
commonly
Is believed to migrate.
first
heard about the Knockogh-
hill.
Columba Palumbus, Wood-quest, formerly frequented the

rugged banks of Woodburn river, but is now only found in a
small glen at Prospect, where they breed.
Alcedo Ispida, King-fisher; this beautiful bird is often
shot near the town during severe winters, where it seems to
come in search of food.
Upupa Epops, Hoopoe ; one was shot on the shore near the
This elegant bird is a native of
town, September 2ist, 1809.
the south of Europe: this was the only one ever seen here.
It
is
rarely seen in
England.
Motacilla Alba, Pied Wagtail, common.

Boarula, Grey Wagtail (commonly
Yellow Wagtail) ; a beautiful bird, rather rare.
called
the
Regulus, Golden Crested Wren, the smallest bird

seen here
rather rare.
-
Troglodytes,
Common Wren,
very plenty.
Rubecula, Robin Redbreast, common.

Cinerea, White Throat, arrives late in April, and
frequents the thickest part of the hedges, where it is heard
calling cha, cha, cha. The earliest heard was on the 2ist April.
Hedge Sparrow, common.
Modularis,
-
thickets
and
Grasshopper
Locustella,
close hedges,
Warbler.
and makes a noise
in the
inhabits
summer
evenings resembling the winding up of a clock, or call of the
common
grasshopper.
Salicaria,
where
it
builds
its
nest
Sedge Bird, frequents sedgy places,

a very ingenious manner, of the
in
It imitates the notes of several birds,

dried fibres of plants.
particularly those of the sparrow and swallow ; and during the
breeding season (in June), often sings all night, if the weather
is fine.
445
ings.
Motacilla Trochilus, Willow Wren, frequents

solitary plantArrives about the end of April, and retires
in
early
September.
-
CEnanthe. White
Rump,
in
arrives
April,
and
frequents remote places; rarely more than a pair are ever seen
together.
- Rubicola,
Stone-chatter, frequents stone walls in
solitary places.
Rubetra, frequents same places
Neither of the three last noticed are numerous.
Parus Major, Large Blue Titmouse; rather

- Caeruleus, Blue Bonnet, not common.
as
the
last.
rare.
If disturbed
when hatching, it utters a singular puffing noise.

Hirunda Rustic a. Common Swallow, very common. From
observations made during twenty-six years, the earliest arrival
of these birds was on the pth April, and the latest seen on the
1
3th October.
former.
The
Riparia,
Sand Martin not so numerous

was the 5th April migrates
;
earliest seen
sooner than the
swallow
the
as the
rather
last.
Urbica, White
as
arrives
in
common
Martin, not so
Rumped
early
May, and
late
retires
in
September.
the
birds
2th
May;
seldom
difficulty
in
Apus, Swift, or Black Martin

retires
alight
rising
rarely seen before
about the same time as the last. These

on the ground, as they have a great
again,
and we have known
it flies
before they could resume their flight
tribe.
the
swallow
than
of
others
evenings
:
several taken
much
later in the
Alauda Arvensis, Laverock, Lark, very common.

Arborea, Wood Lark, common.
Minor, Lesser Field Lark, or Tit Lark; sings
descending, with
its tail
cocked; rather
rare.
Loxia Curvirostra, Cross-bill a flock of these birds were

seen in July, 1811, which is the only instance of their visiting
:
this place.
Chloris,
Green Linnet, rather common.
Pyrrhula, Bullfinch, common.

Emberha Miliaria, Bunting. Bunding,
pretty
common;
all seasons.
sings occasionally at
Nivalis,
Snow Bunting:
during severe winters.
some have been
caught
446
Citrinella,
Yellow Hammer, Yellow Yorling ; common.

Head, frequents bogs and amongst
Schceniclus, Black
reeds, where it builds.
House Sparrow, very common.

Carduelis, Goldfinch; pretty common.
Linaria, Grey Linnet; common.
Anas Cygnus, Wild Swan; a few have been seen during
Fringilla Domestica,
winter at Loughmorne.
Anser,
Wild Goose; often seen
flying,
but rarely
alights here.
Vast numbers of
Barnicla, Brent Goose, Barnacle.
these birds arrive in the bay in the latter end of September,
which mostly frequent the banks near White-house and Hollywood, feeding on sweet grass, or sleech (Zostera marina). They
begin to retire northward about the 2oth April, and are com-
monly gone by the iath May.

Boschas, Wild Duck; often shot during winter
Loughmorne, and until a few years ago, some pairs bred
at
in
the most remote bogs of this parish.

Their eggs have been
hatched under hens, and the young thus domesticated; but they
have been observed to be always shy, and easily alarmed on the
least noise ; and in the spring the drake has been remarked to
attach himself wholly to one duck for that season.
Tadorna, Shi el Drake, shot on the shore
during
winter.
Mariia, Scaup Duck, common.
Clanguid, Golden Eye, frequents the bay.

Fuligula, Tufted Duck, resembles the Widgeon ; rare.
Ferina, Red Headed Widgeon, seen on the shore
during winter, and
at
Loughmorne.
Penelope, Widgeon
morne, where it is often shot.
frequents the bay and Lough-
Clypeata, Shoveller, rare.

Crecca, Teal, frequents Loughmorne, where it breeds.
Alca Arctica, Puffin, common in the bay ; breeds at the
Gabbons.
Torda, Razor
Couter-Neb, frequents the bay.

Northern
Diver; sometimes seen near
Colymbus Glacialis,
the entrance of the bay.
Grylle, Black Guillemot, frequents the bay.
Stellatus,
Hawk,
pretty common.
Bill,
Speckled
Diver,
Arran-Ake,
Allan-
447
Minor,
Little
Grebe,
Penny
Bird,
builds
at
Loughmome.
Fulica Atra, Bald Coot, Drink-a-Penny, found on the shore
of the bay and Loughmorne, where some of them breed.
Ardea Major, Long Necked Heron; not common.
Mergus
Castor,
Dun
Diver, rare.
Pelicanus Carbo, Skart, Scart, Corvorant, Cormorant; common in the bay. This bird also frequents fresh water lakes
those here set off almost every morning for Loughneagh, and
:
return again same evening. On one being shot just as it arrived

from Loughneagh, in his crop was found fourteen Pullans.
Pelicanus Graculus, Shag ; never leaves the salt water
:
both these
last
breed at the Gabbons. 1
- Bassanus, Gannet, frequents the entrance of the

bay, especially when herrings are on the coast.
Procellaria Pelagica, Petrel, Mother Carey's Chicken ; rare.
Hamato-pus Ostralegus, Sea Pie, common.
Larus Cataractes. Skua, or Grey Gull ^
Common in the bay,
r*
f^ n
- ~
Canus, Common Gull,
an breed at the
r- 11
r
TT
"
Fuscus, Herring Gull,
!?.
Gabbons.
Indactylus, Kittiwake,
- Marinus, Black Backed
Gull, rather rare.
Crepidatus, Black-toed Gull, Dung or Dirt Bird,

about the size of the common gull. It pursues the other gulls
it is a shy bird,
for the purpose of robbing them of their prey
seldom coming near the shore.
-
young Land-rail was caught in High

it was kept in a cage during winter,
and eat of almost every kind of food offered; it was fond of
fresh meat, and became very tame, and began its notes at the
October, 1823, a
Carrickf ergus ;
Street,
usual time.
May, 1825, a
Stork,
Ardea Ciconia, was
shot.
June, 1826, a White Sparrow was killed.

In January, 1829, the following birds were shot,
which
are
rare:
all
The Water Hen, Fulica Chloropus;
Water Crake, Rallus Porzana; and a White
of
the
Linnet.
1
Rewards were formerly paid at Assize for destroying those birds
In the records of the County Antrim, in 1729, mention is made of a
who had killed 96 Cormorants
person called Jemfrey, in Island Magee,
In one season.
:
44 8
The following notes regarding the Birds have been kindly supplied
by Robert Patterson, Esq., F.L.S., M.R.I. A. They are given verbatim
Falco Peregrinus.
No longer breeds on the Knockagh.
Strix Otus.
Known now as the Long-eared Owl.
Corvus Corax. The Raven has long ceased to breed at the Knockagh.
Corvus Graculus. The Chough has long ceased to breed at the
Knockagh.
The
Sturnus Vulgaris.
abundant.
Sturnus Cinclus.
"
"
Waterhen
It
is
now
is
Starling
curious that the
common
very
and
Dipper should be called
here.
Tetrao Perdix. The Partridge is now far from common.

Tetrao Coturnix. The Quail in this district is now unknown, and
has been for many years.
Tringa Cinclus. The Dunlin does not breed on Mew Island, and
no record exists of it ever having done so.
Tringa Hypoleucos. Now called the Common Sandpiper.

Tringa Labata. The Grey Phalarope is still a very rare visitor.
Charadrius Pluvialus. The Golden, not the Grey, Plover.
Hiaticula.
The Ringed Plover does not migrate in the
ordinary sense of the word.
Caladris.
The Sanderling is rare, and can only be met
with for a very few weeks in autumn.
Scolopax Rusticola.
Phceopus.
Woodcock now breed in Ireland commonly.

Whimbrel are only to be seen for a very few
weeks
in the year.
Motacilla Rubetra.
now.
Hirundo Apus.
The Whinchat
will
scarcely
be seen
in
the
district
The Swift
and does not belong

Alauda Arborea.
to the
leaves before the Martins
Swallow
Wood-Lark has been
Tfie
and Swallow,
tribe.
extinct here for
many
years.
the Tree Pipit, which is unknown in Ireland ;

the Meadow Pipit, whose singing he describes.
Carduelis.
The Goldfinch is now quite extinct in the
Alauda Minor
is
M'Skimmin must mean

Fringilla
district.
The Brent Goose
Anas Barnicla.
may
be
attributed
to
the
scarcity
of
is
now
the
rare,
"
and
its
"
absence
(Zoster a
sleech-grass
marina) now.
The Tufted Duck is very common in winter.

The Puffin never bred at the Gobbins, but the
M'Skimmin does not include) did.
Colymbus Stellatus. The Red-throated Diver.
Ardea Major. It is curious that the Heron should be considered
Fuligula.
Alca Arctica.
Guillemot (which
" not common " 100

years ago, as 60 years ago they were plentiful.
Strange that the rare Goosander should be
Mergus Castor.
mentioned, and the common Red-breasted Merganser omitted.
The Cormorant ceased to breed at the Gobbins
Pelicanus Carbo.
about 1845.
Graculus.
Gobbins now.
Larus Cataractes.
"
The Shag
No Skua
is
not
known
to
ever bred in Ireland,
breed
at
the
and none are
common."
Canus.
Another mistake, the
Common
Gull never bred at
the Gobbins.
Tridactylus.
bred at the Gobbins.
The Kittiwake
is
not
known
to
have ever
449
No. XXIII.
list
of the Fish,
"These
etc.,
found
rolling spheres that
Their kindly influence
in the
Bay
of Carrickfergus.
from on high shed down
not these alone,
Which
strike ev'n eyes incurious, but each moss,

Each shell, each crawling insect, holds a rank
Important in the plan of Him, who framed
This scale of beings ; hokU a rank which, lost,

Would break the chain." STILLINGKLKKT.
Balccna Physalus, Fin Backed Whale; one of these was

on shore a few years ago at Kilroot.
A very large fish is
sometimes seen by the fishers, which they call a Bottle-nose;
1
cast
we could
not determine
its class.
Delphinus Phocana, Porpoise ; sometimes seen in considerable numbers during summer, in pursuit of other fish.
Orca, Grampus ; an occasional visitor during summer.
This
Petromyzon Marinus, Lamprey, Lamper-eel, rare.
fish
is
accounted poisonous, perhaps without foundation, as
was formerly esteemed a
it
delicacy.
Gastrobranchus
When
Ccecus,
Hag-fish, Sucker; eel shaped.
cod, or other fishes are taken on the hook, this fish some-
times enters into their mouths, and eats all save the skin and
bone.
They have been also seen adhering to the skate.
Raia Batis, Dun Skate, Dunny ; these are the largest of

the species that are taken here: rather common.
Rubus, Rough Skate, the back of this fish is covered
with tubercles, hence
its
name; common.
Clavata, Thornbacked Skate, pretty common.

Squalus Squatina, Monk or Angel-fish, rare.
Cornubicus, Porbeagle Shark, rare.

Mustelus, Smooth Shark, Stinkard;
rare.
Maximus, Basking Shark, seen during summer

In this situation it seems
lying near the surface of the water.
very unwilling to move, remaining till the boats are close by.
The fishers also describe a ravenous fish called the Sucker,
alleged to belong to the shark species.
Vulpes, Sea-fox, Thresher, sometimes seen off the
Copeland Isles; and heard after night making a noise with its
which
is
against the water.

- Acanthias, Piked Dog-fish, or
taken.
tail
'The
others,
whale.
frequently-
describe a very large fish, seen in the pursuit of

of the herring^ with a large dorsal fin, called the
from their description we allege it to be the Fin-backed
fishers
especially
Herring-hog
Gobbuck
45
Canicula, Spotted Dog-fish, common.
Catulus, Lesser Spotted Dog-fish, common.
of these
and said
The
be a remedy for the flux.

Lophius Piscatorius, Malegoon or Sea-Devil. This fish has
a horrid appearance; it never takes a bait, nor is taken in a
net, but is sometimes caught on a hook by swallowing other
A fish nearly as deformed as the
it is never eaten.
fish;
Malegoon is sometimes seen by the fishers, and called the
last
is
eaten,
to
Cobbler.
Cephalus Brevis, oblong Sun-fish; this is a large fish, and

appears like a large one cut through the middle; very rare,
not eaten.
Cycloplerus Lumpus, Lump-Succer, rather rare;
it is
never
eaten.
Syngnathus Acus, Horn Sand-eel, Needle-fish, sometimes

taken.
Barbarus,
Horn
Sand-eel,
longer
Pike-fish;
rather rare.
Murana
Anguilla,
Common
eel,
caught both in
salt
and
fresh water.
-
Conger, Salt-water eel; frequently taken throughout the lough.

Ammodytes Tobianus, Sand eel, caught on the shore of
the bay; is only used for bait.
Callionymus Lyra, Sooter, Yellow Gurnard, commonly
about eight inches in length, rare; it is never eaten.

Trachinus Draco, Sting-fish, seldom exceeds three inches in
length, and is found in the sand at low water, always beneath
When observed is usually killed by
a shell with its nose out.
the fishers
Gadus
not eaten.
Morhua,
White
Cod,
Common
Cod,
plentiful
throughout the lough, varying in size from one to forty pounds ;

they vary much in colour, according to the ground on which
they feed.
Gadus
Rockling Cod, merely the young of the former.

(Eglesinus, Haddock; formerly very plenty, now
rather rare.
plenty,
Pollachius, Laithe, Pollack; formerly they were very

still at times taken in considerable numbers.
and are
Carbonarius, Grey Lord, Blocken, or Glashan, freabout the entrance of the bay during summer.
taken
quently
When young, they are usually called by the latter names.
was formerly common, but
Merlangusy Whiting;
is
aiow rare.
-
Merluccius,
Hake, sometimes taken
in considerable
.numbers during summer.

Luscus, Bib, very rare. During
Jarge shoals were seen in this lough.
last
autumn
several
Ling, frequently taken; and are commonly

Some have been
during the summer months.
taken that weighed nearly 19 pounds.
A small fish is sometimes seen by the fishers that bears a resemblance to the
ling; it
Molva,
pretty
is
plenty
called Pickey.
Tricirratus, Rockling, or three bearded
Mustela, Cod-Owen, or
for
five
Cod ;
rare.
bearded Cod; used only
bait.
Brosme, Torsk, very rare.

Blennius Gatlorugine, Blenny, caught in the lobster pots;
jare.
Guntielus,
Codlick,
Spotted
Blenny;
taken on
the
strand at low water.
Gobius Aphya, Spotted Goby, found on the strand. Both

the shape and habits of this fish resemble those of the trachinus
its length seldom exceeds
draco; hence it is killed when seen:
three inches.
Coitus Gobio, Miller's Thumb, Bull head; caught on the
shore about the rocks at low water.
It frequents the mouths
of fresh waters, and varies in length from four to ten inches ;
not eaten.
Scorpius, Father Lasher: this fish resembles the last,
often confounded with it ; both are said to be poisonous.
Their disagreeable figures perhaps give rise to the report of
and
is
their
bad qualities.
Zeus Faber, Johnny Dory
is
ance, yet
In length;
has a hideous appearseldom exceeds 14 inches
this fish
esteemed a delicacy.
It
rare.
Pleuronectes Hypoglossus, Holibut ; this is a large fish

some have been taken which were one hundred and a half in
:
weight.
June, 1820, one was caught which measured six feet

in length, and near four feet in breadth.
two inches
Platessa,
Fluke,
Plaice,
caught in the bay in
considerable numbers.
Flounder, or fresh water Fluke, rather

has been sometimes taken in Woodburn river.
Flessus,
.rare in the
bay
45*
not
length
choice
fish.
Limanda,
common.
Dab,
rarely
exceeds
ten
Solea, Sole, He-Sole, rather rare;
is
inches
in
esteemed a
Arnoglossus, She-Sole, Smooth Sole, an indifferent

fish
scarce.
Maxtmus.
Turbot,
choice
fish;
sometimes-
taken.
Rhombus.
much esteemed;
Britt,
shaped
like the last,
but not
so-
rare.
Passer, Knock's-Fluke, thin

both on the left side of the head ; rare.
and
pellucid,
eyes-
Sparus Raii, Hen-fish, a choice fish ; rare.

Auratus, Bawin, Red Gilt-head, Jenny Munro; rather
rare.
Pagrus, Carf, Scarf; rare; a beautiful
fish
Labrus Tinea, Wrasse, Old Wife; seldom taken

Perca Labrax, Braze, Basse, formerly very plenty, nowvery rare; its length never exceeds twenty inches.
Gasterosteus Spinachia, Fifteen-spined Stickle-back; small
and worthless.
Scomber Scomber, Mackerel, a beautiful fish ; sometimes
taken during autumn.
Trachurus, Horse Mackerel rare.
Trigla Lyra, Piper, deemed a choice fish, and usually;
Red Gurnard, which it much resembles.

Red Gurnard ; very rare.
not so much esGurnardus, Nowd, Grey Gurnard
teemed as either of the former, but is plentier. Taken during
the summer months.
Salmo Salar, Salmon, sometimes taken ascending Woodcalled the
Cuculus,
burn
river.
Trutta,
Salmon Trout,
taken
near
the
mouths of
rivers.
Mugil Ce-pJialns, Mullet, formerly pretty plenty; now rare.

usually taken from early irr
Clupea HarengHS, Herring
;
May
to December.
Pilcardus, Pilchard
Sprattus, Sprat;
rare.
rare.
Lumbricus Marinus, Lug or Sea-worm.

The above are found on
Echiurus, Grey Lug.
digging in the sand, and used for bait. On being found, they
453
-are gutted and put into a kit, in which state
they keep better,
.and longer alive than when ungutted.
Asterias Papposa, Star-fish, found on the shore.
Splicer idata,
Star-fish,
found on the beach
at
low
-water.
Caput Medusae, seen
as the last.
Aphrodita Actdeata, Sea-Mouse, often caught when dredgang, or found in the belly of the cod-fish.
Squammata, seen on the shore at low water.
Sepia
Cuttle-fish,
Officina/is,
Ink-fish;
the
largest
taken
was about twenty inches in length; rather rare.

Media, Cuttle-fish; rare.
Loligo, Broologhan, found on the shore after storms.
Medusa Aurita, Sea-Xettle, seen frequently on the shore.
Cruciata, Sea-Nettle, found same as the last.
Cancer Pagurus, Common Crab, Croobin, usually caught
an the lobster pots
some have been taken that weighed up*wards of seven pounds.
:
Pisum, found in the Horse Mussel.

Velutinus, Flying Crab, taken in the lobster pots.
Smith
or
Crab,
Hammerman, seen
Tetraodon,
frequently on the shore at low water.

Bernhardus, Crawlish Crab; found in several kinds of
.-shells.
Phalangium, Long-Legs; rather

Prawn, rather common.
Araneus; rather rare.
rare.
Squilla,
Serratus, rare.
Mcenas, found on the shore amongst sea weeds ; is

very tenacious of life.
Astacus, Crawfish, fresh water Lobster, seen near the
mouths of rivers; very rare.
Gammarus, Lobster ; caught in baskets or pots, in the
eastern part of the bay, and sometimes taken about rocks and
stones at low water.
very large one was caught a few years
.ago, Avhich was white; it continued so when boiled.
Longicornis, taken in deep water in the lobster pots.

Echinus Esculentus, Sea Urchin ; taken up when dredging,
.and seen adhering to the rocks.
Spatagus, Sea Urchin,
so
common
caught
as the last.
Solen Siliqua, Scout, or Razor-fish.
when dredging; not
454
Vagina, Razor-fish. The two
sand at low water; the former
Pectcn Maximus, Scallop.
~|
Subrufus, Clam.
Ostrea Edulis,
some of them.
Common
Mytilus Edulis,
low water.
mentioned are found;
last
in the
is
much
the largest.
Cau & ht when dredging; are

much scarcer than formerly.
Oyster; small pearls are found in
Common
Mussel; found on the shore at
Modiolus, Horse Mussel, much larger than the last,

and is dredged up with the oysters. Pearls have been found in
some of them.
Cardiiim Echinatum, Cockle, found on the shore at low
water.
Edule, Common Cockle, taken up at ebb water.

Mactra Solida, Lady Cockle, found as the last.
-Lutraria.
Patella Vulgafa,
Common
Limpet, found in plenty on the
shore.
Ungarica, Claw Limpet, found on oyster shells
uncommon.
Turbo
Littoreus, Wilk.
Found
"|
Duplicatus, Cronlough Churn.
in plenty
not
on
the shore.
Bnccinum Undatum, Whelk, Buckey
caught in pots for
bait.
Lapillus,
Horse Wilk; adheres
stones
to
on
trie-
shore.
Pidlus.
- Reticulatum.
\
>
Found on
the shore.
Murex
Despectus, Horse Buckey. J

Corneus.
Arenaria, found at low water.

adheres to stones on the shore, and the
Balanns,
Lepas
horse mussel.
Mya
Balanoides, seen adhering to rocks and stones at lowwater.
Anatifera, the Barnacle shell fish

Islandica.
rare.
Venus
Decussata.
Exoleta.
Erycina.
Sabella Belgiea.
Alveolata.
Pholas Candidns.
-,
-Common
in the
sand
Area Glycymeris.
Strombus Pes Pelicani, Corvorant's
Trochus Zizyphinus.
foot.
Crispatus.
at
low water.
Dactylus.
Bulla Lignaria.
Umbilicalis, Cronlough Watch, found on the beach.
Ncrita Littoralis.
Glaucina.
Serpula Vermicularis.
Doris Argo, Lemon Doris.
Phoea Vitulina, Seal, or Sea Calf; often seen near the

entrance of the bay.
Several kinds of Sponge, and Coraline,
are frequently taken up when trawling.
These
regarding the Fishes are also supplied by Mr.

They are given verbatim
Gastrobranchus CCBCUS. This is the only local reference known
Thompson never met with this animal, and it has not occurred since.
Raid Rubus. This is the R. maculata of modern writers.
Squalus Maximus. An error the Basking Shark has never been
seen on the East Coast of Ireland.
Cephalus Brevis. This is the Short Sun-fish.
Trachinus Draco. A mistake should be T. vipera.
Gadus Merlangus. The Whiting is by no means rare now, while
notes
Patterson.
the
Hake
is.
Luscus.
Molva.
weighed 59
Quite common.
Thompson
records
Carrickfergus
Ling
that
Ibs.
Brosme.
This
is
the only local note of this fish
probably
a mistake.
This is the Freckled Goby (G. minutus).

The Miller's Thumb was not included in the
Gobio.
fishes of Ireland by Thompson, and no specimen is known to exist.
Probably a mistake.
This is Arnoglossus megastoma. the
Pleuronectes Arnoglossus.
Whiff.
Passer.
Merely a variety of the Flounder.
Raii.
Thompson considered this a case of mistaken
Gobius Aphya.
Coitus
Sparus
identity.
These refer to the same fish Pagellus

Auratus, Pagnis.
centrodontus, the Common Sea-bream or "Carp."
Labrus Tinea. This is the Ballan Wrasse (L. maculatus).
Scomber Trachurus. Sometimes the Scad visits us in vast numbers
" Guide to
Belfast," 1902, p. 174).
{Vide B.N.F.C.
T. cuculus, Red Gurnard, common.
Trigla Lyra.
T. hirundo. Grey Gurnard, commoner.
Cuculus.
T. gurnardus, Knowd, commonest.
Gurnardus
The Lesser Grey Mullet
Uugil Cephalus. M. chclo.
_J
common.
Consisting of Original Papers.
Knowe
all
men
to
CERTIFFICATT.
whome these presents
shal
come
to
be heard,
reade, or seene, that we Gory M' Henry, and Cahall O'Hara, Esquyers,
doe hereby testifye, that we weare present when Sr. James M'Donell,
Knight, was married unto Mary M'Neill, (by the Lord Bishope), of
Galchoane in the O'Neve, in the lands of Clanndonnels, beyonde the
Bande and that Donnell Oge M'Fee, and Bryan O'Lavertye, with
diverse others weare present at the said Marriadge and knoweth
and this is the cause of our knowledge, that Alexander
thereof
M' Donnell is the lawful Sonne and heire of the said Sr. James
M* Donnell, Knight Witness our hands this z6th of Februarij, 1609.
Cahall X O'Hara.
G. M'H.
marke.
his
;
We doe acknowledge and confess that we have receaved at Uiehands of the maior, sheriffs, and corporacon of the Towne of Knockfargus, the Patent graunted unto us by his majestic for houldinge of
our lands of Killeleagh and Killmackevett, being formerlie committed
by direcion from the late Lord Deputye, unto the trust and custodye
of the maior and corporacon of Knockfargus, aforesayde, until such
tyme as we should come to perfecte adge, and be capable of reason
and understandinge as wytness our hands this i8th of Aprile, 1616.
;
Neall O'Nealt,
Hugh O 'Neall.
Witnesses,
Hercules Langforde,
Thomas Witter,
Thomas Tracy.
Articles agreed and concluded by and between the right honble. Hugh
lord Viscount Montgomery of the Ardes, on the one part, for and
in the behalfe of all parts of the Army within the Province of
Ulster, that either are or hereafter shall be joyned under his
And Major Ellis, governor of Carrickfergus, Major

Coghrun, Govr. of the Castle, and the rest of the Officers -within
the said towne and Castle, together with the Mayor Sheriffes,
Aldermen, Burgesses, and Comons, of the other part, the fourth
day of July 1649 : (see page 57.)
be received
1, First that the towne and Castle of Carrickfergus
no officer or souldier to bo in
only by Lord Viscount Montgomery
garrisoned therein, of any but of the British, of the Counties of Downe,
and
Carrickfergus, and Antrym, resident in the said respective places
in imployment at or in the month of May last, and such as are wel!
Comand,
protestants.
other
2, That neither Mayor, Sheriffes, Aldermen, freeman, or any
inhabitaunts of the said Coporation and liberties, thereof, be prejudiced
457
ither in person goodes or estate for the
joyning with the garrison in
late defence thereof, And with all that
they be not abridged of
their priveledges interests and rights which of due do and hath
the
belonged to the said Corporation, And that no papist shall be allowed

to inhabit within the said liberties, being a thing especially cared for
in former tymes, And that their Sesses in regard of their former
burdens & present losses, destruction of their corne, cattell, housses, &c.
.may be reduced to the half of what they now pay, And also to have
the benefit of the customs for all goods to be imported and exported in
the port of Carrickfergus, and the limits thereof, for one whole year
from the date hereof. And that such of the townsmen that desire to
remove out of the country may have free and uninterrupted leave of
transportation of themselves and goods and what estate they leave
behind them may be charged with burdens in a proportion with others
remaining, and not otherwise.
That the Officers resolving to quit their present employments

charge, shall be free of all Sesses, billett, quarters, and contributions whatsoever any way chargeable or to be charged in his or their
respective estates, as well real as personal towards the maintenance
of the Army, and shall be admitted to live quietly secured in their
from
persons and "possessions, of their estates, without any molestation
And the like liberty and freedom for
the Army, or any part thereof
who have been detained
cap. Roger Lyndon, and cap. John Dalway,
the siege
by the governor and officers within the garrison, during
thereof.
that shall as aforesaid be out of
4, That such officer or officers,
have no other subscription
-employment by the quitting of their charge
or declaration imposed upon them, but what they shall voluntarly
in their possession or injoyment of
aggree, and shall not be molested
presbyterian government.
as have been within the garrison in tn
5 That such Ministers
in their
be
not
the
'of
any way interrupted or hindred
may
siege
tyme
and injoy
return to their respective congragations, and there to practise
the protection of their Minister as formerly.
or future
6 That any officer or officers resolving for the present
sea and Land,
to transpose out of the Kingdome have free liberty by
them And what effect:
in the removal of what belong to him and
him to be Sessed but in a progoods he or thev shall leave behind
of the remaining mhabitaunts, And by
portionate way, 'with the rest
3,
and
his removal he in his effects to suffer no prejudice.

to quit his charge have a monthes
7 That what officers resolving
or upon
advanced him according to the pay established by
1
pay
>
That no
officer
for the present

be questioned or molested either
*feffiSS j5S3Sjg
1
late
Coi
Siers
'
^ f "^^^^Capfain
andletter, whatsoever,
Clelnents have no officers nor sold-ers
in
those distracted
tymcs may
,n
458
three
fyles of Musquitiers of his own Company for the defence of

himself and family. And the same to
injoy their maintenance off the
quarters of the regiment of Antrym as formerly, and the said Captain
Clements one fyle for his house, And the said Major to have six
months tyme to advyse whether to hold or discontinue his
r
And in the interim not to be prejudised in his present andcharge
future
interest and that Regiment whereof he is
major.
12, And that the officers and Soldiers of Sir John
Clotworthy'sof
foot
and
of
horse
shall
have the benefite by all and
Regiment
troops
the
aforesaid
named
in
relation
singular
to their freedom from
persons
Sesse, imposition of oathes, transportation of themselves and goodes
and monthes pay, and ingarisoning the same with British in their
present quarters and garrison.
Ed. Ellis.
Robt. Hannay.
B. Coghran.
Edward Ferguson.
Clemenis.
Samuel Stewart.
Henery
-
ANSWER.
To THE
FIRST, The towne and Castle of Carrickfergus, shall be

received by the lord Viscount Montgomery and garriesoned by the
forces
of the province of Ulster only, and such as have been
protestant
in imployment therein at or in the month of May last.
the Second,
Neither the Mayor,
2, To
Aldermen, Sheriffes,
Burgesses, or other inhabitants shall be in any wise prejudged for
their joyning with the garrison in the late defence thereof, nor in any
wise abridged in the Rights and priviledges belonging to the Corporation, nor Papists shall have any allowance (more than formerly), by
any authority from wee, And especiall care shall be taken, that in
regard to the Sesse of the inhabitaunts of the said Towne, an estimate
shall be taken of the same, and accordingly their Sesse be Sessed by
deducting a part of their former burden till the same be satisfied
And as for the customes the same shall be imployed in such man.r as
may most ease the same to the inhabitaunts thereof by advyse of the
Mayor and Common Counsel!, And such of the inhabitaunts who desire
to remove out of the Countrie shall have free liberty for themselves
and goods, And what estate they leave behind shall be charged equally
with the rest remaining, and no farther.
3, The third article is granted, as to the officers of the garrison.
And likewise that Cap.n Roger Lyndon, and Cap.n John Dallaway
shall be no more charged than formerly, who likewise are included
within the agreements made for their several regim.ts yet it shall be in
their choyce which both they will accept of, whether that agreed upon
with the Regim.t or the benefit of this article, as granted to the
1,
officers.
4,
5,
The
The
The
fourth article
is
granted.
fyfth article is granted.

sixth article is granted.
He nor they in the mean tyme

6,
acting nothing against the King's just authority.
shall be paid
7, The following article is granted, and the money
before the rendering up the garrison.
8, The eight article is granted.
shall have this9, To the nynth article, the officers and Souldiers
monthes arrears paid unto them, which I doe undertake to doe before
the i5th of this month, and that such souldiers who are not willing to
continue in future shall not be pressed to serve against thir wills.
the
10, To the tenth article, in regard to the garrison, urgency at
tymes doth not admit any of the artillery now in the garisone to be
removed out of it, a list shall be taken and given to the com.dr of
what does belong to the state of Scotland, and the same shall be
preserved for their use, as formerly hath been undertaken.
459
n, To
the elleventh article, as to the

requests desired by Major
Ellis and Cap.n Clements of freedome from
quartering upon their
and
to
dwelling houses,
liberty
Major Ellis for three fyles of men with
maintynance to be allowed unto them, and of one to Cap.n Clement*
for the keeping of his house, It is
granted, Provyding they act
nothing against the Army here ; And tyme of advysment descried byMajor Ellis as also granted as to the Vacancy of his place as Major.
12, To the last Article, I have formerly granted the
propositions
put
in
by Cap.n Robert Stewart and Cap.n Francis
Ellis
on Behalfe of
the Regiment of troops, To which I remit

myselfe, And I am contented
that what further benefits they may claim as
hereby granted to the
of
garrisonc
Carrickfergus, they may and shall have "the like in their
respective quarters.
Upon syncing of the within article, and satisfaction made of per
within monthes pay, the Towne and Castle of
Carrickfergus is to be
delivered up as aforesaid.
Ed.
Ellis.
B. Coghran.
Edward Ferguson.
Samuel Stewart.
Henry Clements.
Robert Hannay.
Annals of the county of Antrim,
chiefly, extracted from the records of

that County.
1668
Anthony Richardson, of the parish of Makerarhisk, having
br-cn cast into prison by Lemuel Mathcws, rector of said
parish, for
not paying tithes, and being prisoner, at times near seven years, died in
1
the Goal of Carrickfergus."
Between 1712 and 1740, the county of Antrim appears to have been
much agitated by bands of robbers called lories, or rapparees. Rewards
being offered for their apprehension, dead or alive, the following
notices appear in the records respecting their captures :
the sums were
all granted and paid at the assizes.
10 was granted to James Stewart for apprehending
April, 1713,
2 IDS.
Pat. Feney O'Hagan, a proclaimed tory, hanged at Armagh;
to Andrew Ferguson for taking Art. O'Hagan, a rapparee, executed at
2 to Samuel Duffeild, for bringing to justice Hugh
Downpatrick and
"
M'Lernon, a noted
thief.
.fg granted to Samuel Swan, Michael Thompson, and

Alexander Forbes, for taking prisoner Murtagh M'Alinden, a desperate
and notorious robber, executed at Carrickfergus.
The number of persons transported from the County of Antrim in
the annexed years:
1829, 44; 1830, 40; 1831, 57; 2832, 28; 1833, 46;
1834, 26; 1835, 38; 1836, 67; 1837, 102; 1838, 46.
to
Henry M'Auly, for apprehending Thomas Jamfrey,
1715, _$
10 to Arthur Graham, for
noted rapparee, executed at Armagh
bringing to justice Bryan M'Garrety, a proclaimed tory; Hugh
M'Lernon and John M'Lean, noted robbers, executed at Carrickfergus ;
10 to Peter Meason, of Moira, for bringing to justice Francis
Graham, a proclaimed tory. A Watch-house ordered to be erected in
1714,
the parish of Derriaughy.

10 granted to John Huston for taking prisoner Pat.
i"i6,
10 to Oliver Ancktell, for apprehending
M'Devlin, ^proclaimed tory;
10 to John Pollock for securing David
Phil. Roe Trener, a tory;
Dumbar, and Zachariah Barr, proclaimed tories. To David Hamilton
and to John John10 for bringing to justice Bryan Maguire, a tory
;
Henry Roe M'Ardle, and Bryan Crummy,

20
notorious r'appnrees, whose heads 'were put up on Dundalk jail.
for apprehending Loughhr.
2S. 2d. granted to captn. Malcolm M'Neal
Fews,
ston,
20, for killing
Sufferings of the Quakers.
400
M'Quoy, alias Pat. Morgan, a proclaimed tory, hanged at Downpatrick
and Pat. Moody, a tory, executed at Dundalk
$ as. 2d. presented
;
Gilbert Porter, and Toal O Caine, for bringing to justice Toal

Dunlap, a noted horse-stealer.
to, ordered to be raised off the
county at large, to build a Watch-house, and put up a pair of Stocks
to
in the parish of Killead.

1717, To captn. Malcolm M'Xeal,
M'Mahon, executed at Dundalk; to John
.5
for apprehending Sylvaster

M'Crea, Ballynure,
$, for
apprehending Daniel Mulholland, Henry Graham, and Farrell Agnew.
robbers, the latter of whom was exev. 'ted at Carrickfergus.

10 granted to John Hamilton, sheriff, for transmitting
year,
also ./~io to Edward
priest M'Donnell and Alice Usher to Dublin
Clements, late high sheriff, for the transmission of Henry Stafford,
capt. M'Donnell, and W. Stuart, to Dublin, by order of the government. To Bryan Hanlon,
4, for apprehending Pat. Roe O'Burn, -a
10.
proclaimed tory, executed at Dundalk ; and to Mathew Stuart,
noted
Same
to John Edmonston
taking prisoner John Greer, a noted robber
and Daniel M'Kert, Braid, ^3 each, for assisting to take prisoner
Shane Oge O'Haghinw, a notorious robber, executed at Carrickfergus;
and to James Stewart, Newry,
5, for apprehending James Hamilton,
a murderer, robber, and rapparee, executed at Downpatrick
12
for
ordered to Wm. Moore, high sheriff, for transmitting Thomas Stewart,

to Dublin, he being charged with the murder of col. Henry Lutterel,
who was assassinated in Dublin, October 22, 1717, and died the noxt
1
To James Willson, keeper of the House of Correction, at the
day.
town of Antrim, one year's salary, .15.
1
12 to Saumel, Robert, and Hugh Beggs, Braid, for im7 1 8,
10 were
portant services rendered to the county. At the same time,
ordered to the Rev. Oliver Douglass, and lieut. John Vere, for appreto Nicholas
hending Bryan Kelly, a rapparee, executed at Armagh
White,
10, for bringing to justice Daniel Magee and Duncan O'Kellv,
proclaimed tories, whose heads were put up on the county of Antrim
5 to John Mack for apprehending Cormick O'Neill, a
2oal, in 1717;
10 granted to captn. Malcolm M'Neal
tory, robber, and rapparee;
for taking prisoner Gregory Burns, a proclaimed tory, whose head was
Same
time,
1$ was ordered to Alexander
placed on the Antrim goal.
Legg, and John M'Dowell, Malone, for bringing to justice Daniel
O'Neill, alias, Agnew, a tory, Henry Graham and Edward M'Guire,
noted robbers, executed at Carrickfergus
5 to Robert M'Neight,
and John Warwick, for apprehending Wm. Tuck, a noted robber,
executed at Downpatrick.
10 were granted to James M'Kinstry,
3 to Wm. Craig,
1719,
in taking prisoner
and
5 to Robert Allen, Braid, for their assistance
10 were ordered to be paid to
the notorious Shane Oge O'Haghins
Wm. Purlevent, and John M'Dowell, for taking prisoner Denis
To Arthur
O'Haghins, a proclaimed tory, transmitted to Derry.
$ for apprehendip" Gilbert
Leverty, Daniel Murphy, Bryan Maginnis,
Agnew, a noted tory and to Mathew Munday, Alexander Stewart, and
a proclaimed
Charles Melloy,
5 for bringing to justice John Lamba,
10 were granted to John Hamilton, for killing
Same year,
tory.
;
for bringing to justice

$ to Henry Jackson and Wm. Armstrong,
Laurence Buy M'Kenna, a tory; ;io to John Johnston, Fews, for
10 ordered to Dan. Murphy,
killing John Lamba, a proclaimed tory
Richard
Rea,
and
5 to John Johnston, Fews, for taking prisoner
Lodge's Peerage this was he

so strangely at Limerick.
1
who
is
reported to
have behaved
461
and
robber
Same
rapparee.
Thomas M' Williams,
for
10
year,
killing
to
Robert
Bradagh Quinn, and Every Quigley, proclaimed
Art.
Arthur
Bashford
one year's salary.

Same
M'Manus and Thomas Dickey,
^4
Monaghan
to
to
Findlater,
and
Thomas Murphy, and apprehending

for
tories,
executed
Knogher
Adam Lamb, for bringing to justice Darby
O'Buchan, and .,'5
To John Ruxton,
Lennan, proclaimed tories.
8, for apprehending
Phill. Duff, and Donald M'Donnell, noted
tories; .-5 to John Jessopand Adam Spence, for taking prisoner Dultagh Duff O'Donnell, a
and
ordered
to Thomas Falkner, jailer,
proclaimed tory
rapparee. ^"5
at^
for
and
year,
to erect
Cage there
apprehending
were granted to Alexander
new Stocks
in
for Scolds.
repair the
ordered to be erected at Stoneyford.
1720, To Arthur O'Neill,
40, to reward those
Ahoghill,
to
the village of
Watch-house
who apprehended
Saul M'Seveney, Eneas M'Donnell, and John M'Kean, alias Johnston,
notorious rapparees of this county, executed at Omagh
$ to John
Cuppage for taking Alexander Buy M'Kenna ^5 to John Woods, for
Thomas
Green, a noted horse-stealer
apprehending
15 to Daniel
Phillips,
Ballymascanlon, and ^5 to John Hawkins, for bringing
to justice Eneas O'Haghins, a proclaimed tory and rapparee.
Soon
Eneas O'Haghins and six other robbers were executed at
after,
1
Carrickfcrgus, and the head of the former placed on the prison.
1 7 21
s ordered to Robert Tweed and John Lesson, for taking
prisoner Robert Streahorn, a notorious robber, executed at Carrickto William Ross and James Armstrong,
,$, for bringing to
fergus
;
justice
Dan.
O'Creeland
and
Edmond Murphy,
notorious
robbers,
executed at Carrickfergus
7 granted to Thomas M'Mahon, for
apprehending Para Glass, Connolly Owen Buy M'Cabe, and Edmond
10 to David Johnston, for taking Robert Sterla, a proclaimed
Laney.
torv
5 to George Booth and Bryan Murphy, for bringing to justice
John Reiley, alias, Hamilton, a tory. executed at Armagh. js 15*.
paid this year for killing otters, at 55. each.
1722, The Records destroyed till 1728. The taking of tories, or
robbers, appears continued. August ioth, 1728, James Hargrave, Jonas
Hargravc, John Hunter, Joall Rice, and Anthony Huston, *-ere
executed at Carrickfergus, and the heads of the three former placed on
:
the goal.
1730, Toal Rice, robber, also suffered.
were
April 9th, 1731, Daniel M'Auley and Neal Murphy, robbers,
executed
September gth, 1733, David Miniss and Robert Reid also,
and
Charles
in
in 1734, Michael O'Mullan, and
suffered death
1736,
;
at Carrickfergus
1739, James and
Erwin, noted tories, who had long invested Killymoris, werapprchended by John Johnston, Fews.
The Homers were the next gang of notorious celebrity who disand
turbed the peace of the country
they were often imprisoned,
In January, 1775, James Horner
effected their escape several times.
suffered death, and in August, same year, Dennis and John Horner
Dennis was hanged, but John
were capitally convicted of robbery
himself the night before he was to have suffered.
Bryan O'Brogan were executed
Wm.
poisoned
1
Eneas appears to have been the last of four brothers, who were
of the counties of Antrim and
long a terror to the peaceable inhabitants
of resort was at the Knockagn.
Carrickfergus. One of their chief places
of Gideon
Carrickfergus, at the house of a Mrs. Jacques (widow
the Deer s-Iane. Their
Jacques); thev ascended and descended by
still called AT chys bushes.
great store was in a little dell adjoining,
on the prison, a
During the time of their heads being exposed
down
Wren built her nest in one of their skulls They at length fell held
a school was then
the chimney of the grand jury room, where
a>
and were long kept in a corner to frighten juvenile delinquents
their parents when living.
successfully as they had done
!
462
COUNTY OF ANTRIM.
Number
of
persons
murder, felony, &c.
committed,
convicted,
for the last nine years.

In the year
Committed for Trial Males
Females
Male and Female Debtors
Total number committed in each year
Convicted and sentenced Death
Imprisoned or Fined the last 2 years
Transported for Life
sentenced,
&c.
for
463
Thomas Pemberton,
...
AVidow Powell,
...
o
o
s.
d.
6
O
4
.Richard Pendleton,
... o
3
Nicholas
Redworth,
... o
(Nicholas Smith)
9
Garrett Reiley,
... i
'4
James Savage's, Executors, (Wm. M'llenry) o
3
Thomas Savage,
... o
2
William Savage's (J.
... o
Brytt)
Thomas Stacey,
... o
Captain
(late
Henry
Ann
John
... o 16
Dobbin)
(Pound) o
Tennison's,
... o
Executors,
... o
Thrallcott,
Theophilus
Executors,
Execu...
Wills,
Thos.
G.
Robt.
G.
Thos.
"
3
...
M'Kinny)
o
o
...
o 3
o 6
o
o 1
o 16
9
8
o
o
o
o
8
o
Wills, (Executor,
... o
M'Kinny)
Wadman's, Exe-
cutors,
...
Robert Williams,
2
...
...
...
...
ii
ade)
...
Crooks 's Heirs,
...
8
o
Gardner's
...
Heirs,
S
i
(James
...
PAYMENTS MADE OUT OF THE ALL SAINTS RENT,

Paid Richard M'Gill, Prisoner, a week's allowance
Sword Bearer, Michaelmas salary

Militia Drummer, for said time,
Taylor,
for
said
time
George Bell, for said time,

James Preston, for repairing the Quay Gate
Nicholas Smith, for attending the Guard, from Michaelmas last to September 28th, 1709
- Nicholas
Brown, for Guard Candles
- William
Ross, for the Guard-house
John M'Keown, for a Wheel-car,
- Laid out for repairing the Church,
Joseph Mort, Michaelmas allowance,
John Hall, his salary,
- Mr.
Mayor, in part of Lady Day, 1710
January Sessions, 1709-10, public orders
The Mayor
for
6*
78 19
insolvencies,
Collection,
-Thomas
Ann Henderson, (Par2
Taylor's,
Brytt)
50
Wills, (Executor,
John White,
Bryan M'Manus,
Thomas Young,
d.
s.
Execu-
tors,
Bishop
Thomas
Welsh's,
tors,
James
South
Hugh Smith
*t>
Tisdall, Executors, o
the Sergeant's
Hatts
1709.
^Ji
10
i
i
o
10
10
o
o
o
o
17
4
6
500
o o
loj
041
i
o 15
o 15
036
6 o
i
10
15
4
o
o 10
096
'8
The Mayor, and Aldermen
Richard
of Carrickfcrgus, to Colonel
Kan:.
-Sir,
Wee the Mayor and Aldermen of Carrickfergus, beg leave to

it in our true view
acquaint you, that we have from time to time, had
to elect you an alderman of this antient corporation, but to our loss and
-great disadvantage
have met with disapointments.

descended
is
of an antint
and whose ancestors (as is well known to you), have been
this Corporation, and have beha/ed
frequently Aldermen and Mayors of
themselves on all occasions, to the satisfaction of the Same, and
And now Anthony Horseman who
Family,
in order to use
being obliged to travel abroad into foreign parts
and
endeavours to Release his Estate, which is now incumbred,
is
to.
464
made a resignation of his place of Alderman,
his request, to the Mayor and Aldermen, to Elect you in
his Room and place, and
having always had the greatest regard
and esteem for you, have this day, Elected you an Alderman of this
and
in
Town
Room and place of the said Anthony HorseCorporation,
man and we having so often heard of the tender regard you bear
towards Gentlemen in distress, do hope you will have the same for one
of the Old Rock, and especially of a family so well acquainted to you.
support his family, has
and made
it
We
and
do
therefore
recomend
the
said
Anthony
Horseman
to
your
protection and favour, always wishing for an opportunity of showing,

as well with actions as with words, how sincerely we are your most
humble Servants.
In testimony whereof wee have fixed the seal of this corporation,
and Subscribed our names this first day of June 1731.
Francis Clement, deputy Mayor.
Francis
Rjgby Dobbin.
James Stenhouse.
Arthur Dobbs.
Ellis.
Colonel Kane's Answer.

Ma/io/i in Minorca, October ntli, 1731 Gentlemen,
I
have received by the hands of Anthony Horseman a written
instrument dated the ist of June, 1731, under the seal of the Corporation of Carrickfergus, and signed by yourselves the Mayor and Alder" and now
men, in which are the words
Anthony Horseman being,
obliged to travill abroad into foreign parts in order to use bis
endeavours to release his estate which is now incumbred, and to support
his family, has made a resignation of his place of Alderman, and made
it his request to the Mayor and Aldermen to elect you in his Room and
place," which being done you further add "and Wee have so ufto-i
heard of the tender regard you bear towards Gentlemen in distress, dotherefore recomend the said Anthony Horseman to your protection and
favour."
Gentlemen, I do acknowledge the favour you have done me in thisaffair
but at the same time must desire you will excuse my acceptation of it, for I cannot answer to myself the acceptation of that honor
when the world may Judge it to the dishonor of Mr. Horseman io
Resign, and therefore with the same frankness that Mr. Horseman
resigned his room and place of Alderman to me, I now do Resign the
;
same Room and place of Alderman to Anthony Horseman, Esq. of

which he was possessed before his Resignation, and do make it my
request to the mayor and Aldermen that they will be pleased to remitt
Mr. Horseman in his Room and place of Alderman as formerly uponmy being elected Alderman. I presume my room and place of Burgess
was filled up, which I desire may continue so, it being high time I
should be removed from that rowl of record, for it is now 44 or 45
years since I was sheriff, and never moved for a step of promotion.
Altho I have no other Rank in your Corporation, but that of a Common

Free Man, and Free of the Staple, yet I shall be always ready and
willing to promote any thing that may tend to the Good of the
Corporation.
I am heartily sorry Gentlemen for the occasion of Mr. Horseman
coming abroad, and should with pleasure regard your recommendation,
and put him in a way to Retrieve his fortune, were it in my power
and here pray permit me to observe to you that there is not any person
who is acquainted with the nature of this Government but knows that
there are no Imployments here but what are Military, and that in the
If Vacancy happens in Regiments I can recommend to
King's Gift.
none but my own, and those must be half pay officers, for the King is
;
465
determined on that point. Promotions in the
Navy are made at home
by admirals abroad, but even there Mr. Horseman can have no
speedy prospect, for having served but three years at Sea, he must
serve three more as
midshipman before he can be admitted to an
examination for Lieut, and at this time there are few
ships on pay
that have not several
young noblemen on board as midshipmen, and all
pusshmg forward, so that his prospect that way must be very distant.
And as to any other business in this Island
whereby a Gentleman may
retrieve his shattered fortune, I assure

you there is as little hope of it as
in any place I Know, and therefore as it is not in
my power to serve
Mr. Horseman in such an Effectual manner as I should be
willing to
do, and that his stay here will be loosing time, I must
leave to
Recomend him back
beg
to
your Corporation.
Richd. Kane.
P. S.
he above Recomendation ^ so surprising and of such a navure

cannot forbear saying that it would have seemed both reason.-ible
and friendly in the Gentlemen of the Corporation, to have
aprised me of
their intention in order to have had my
thoughts upon it before they
sent Mr. Horseman to Minorca
But to have it so contrived that Mr.
Horseman should resign his place of Alderman to me, and then send
him hither to be supported by me, and put into a way for retrieving
an Incumbred estate, might naturally seem to the world as if it were
making a trial of my understanding, and yet I have not sent that
Gentleman back, but supported him in an inactive way of life having
neither business nor Imployment for him, nor prospect of any.
It would likewise seem as if a great merit was put
upon his
Resignation, when I was to purchase it at so high and unlimited a
and
this
after
I
had
been
so
overlooked
the
price,
long
by
Corporation.
For altho I never made any application for the rank of Alderman, yet
my pretensions to it were not the less, for it is now 44 or 45 years
'1
thai
I was sheriff and consequently burgess of the Corporation.

If the
rank of Alderman had Come to me in the usual way I should have
accepted it as a note of Honor and friendship, but did not think it
proper to accept of it to the dishonour of Mr. Horseman, and therefore
I
resigned it back to the Gentleman as in my letter of the nth
October 1731, to the Corporation.
When Mr. Horseman arrived here he passed as my Relation, and
before his arrival I reed, a letter from his Brother in law Mr. Hagan,
to acquaint me that he was coming to Minorca (who had obtained
Letters of Recomendation for his promotion, as being married to a
Relation of mine), but I wrote to prevent his coming however he did
come in the Service of the Artillery, and as he seems to be of a modest
and sober disposition with a turn for business, I wish he had some
better imployment among them, but that does not depend on me, for
all promotions are made by the board of Ordenance in London.
The affairs of the family not stopping here, I am to acquaint you
that I have lately seen a letter from Ireland which says that a sister
of Mr. Horsemans had reported that the occasion of Mr. Horseman
me of a debt that >vas
coming to Minorca, was to make a demand upon
due by me to him in right of his Grandmother. But to explain upon
that imaginary debt and upon the pretended relation the affair is 'his.
The widow Crymble, of Scoutbush, near Carrickfergus, mother to
Cornelius Crymble, married a Relation of mine, and of my name, who
which
settled a jointure upon her out of his estate at Carrickfergus,
him to
estate upon that Gentlemans Death fell to my father, and after
me. After the death of my said Relation, Ensign John Kane (not of
the family of O'Cahan's Carrickfergus), came from England (I suppose
toward the latter end of the 41 war), and married the widow of my
since
31
466
said relation by which marriage Ensign Kane became entitled to her
Jointure, and by her he had a daughter that was married to Alderman
Richard Horseman, by whom Richard had the present Alderman
Anthony Horseman and some daughters and this is all that can be
said for a pretence as to Relation.
As to the imaginary debt above mentioned, the case is this. Having
in the year 1693, come from Flanders to Ireland, the old Gentlewoman
that was wife to Ensign Kane died when I was in the north, by %vhose
death the Jointure ceased, and the Ensign Kane (who had been absent
from Ireland above 20 years), made a demand upon me for some
pretended arrears of that Jointure and being then to return to Flanders,
'and willing to have matters adjusted with Ensign Kane before my
departure, we came to an agreement and the affair was adjusted between
;
His son in law Alderman Richard Horseman, and Mr. John Smyth,
both of Carrickfergus, being present and witnesses of his release to me,
and since that time (39 years ago), I have not heard any thing more
upon that subject till now. It is natural to suppose that if Alderman
Richard Horseman had had any demand to make upon me he would
have done it before I left Ireland, rather than at any time since. And
us,
having now told Alderman Richard Horseman of what his sister had
reported, he declared he never heard his father say he had any demands
on me.
Thus having explained the true state of the Case, to show Mr.
Horsemans sister and my friends how unjustly she has charged me,
she might have thought it sufficient that her brother should be forbad
upon me, and daily touching my purse, and not busy herself dispersing
this may be made kno.vn
unjust reports for injuring my Character
Mahon Novr. 24th, 1732.
to my friends in the Country.
Richard Kane.
:
No. XVIII.
Ancient Fees paid to the Officers of the Corporation of Carrickfergus
copied from the Manuscripts of Henry Gill; date 1700.
" A Dockett of
Fees, belonging to the Water Bailiffe of the
Liberties of Carrickfergus, 4th, Ed. 6th
:
ist,
him
The Water
Bailiffe is to enquire
and
find out, as
much
as in
suche rights and duties as do any wayes belong to the

Maior or Admiral, and to seize to his use, and to certifie and be
for
the same.
accountable
2d, The Water Bayliffe is to enquire of any Person that haih
taken in the Seas within the Admirals Liberties, Whales, Sturgeons,
Purposes, Baelands, Grampuses, or any other overgrown fish, and hath
not Satisfied the Mayor or Admiral thereof.
3d, The Water-Bay liffe is to have the custody of the Water
measure and weight, and to measure & weigh all and Singular goodes
& merchandizes which are to be weighed & measured within Shipboard,
to be laden, carried, transported, or brought over, that thereby the King
be not deceived in his Customs, or any of his Subjects either in false
measures or Weights and also Size and Seal every weight & measure,
& be Sealed & marked with the Admiral's Seal.
4th, The Water-Bay liffe is to have of every Boat of Fish, as Cod,
Ling Hake, Place, Mullet, Haddock, or any other dry or wet fish, one
lyeth,
all
chief Fish.
5th, The Water-Bayliffe is to have of every Barque, Ship, or
Vessel that taketh Ballast, of Sand, Gravel, or Stones, being within
the flowing or re-flowing of the Sea or Salt water, upon any of the
Shores within this Corporation's Jurisdiction for Lastage of every Tunn
of the Said ballast, three Pence.
467
He is also to have for anchoring of every ship with two Topps,

Shilling.
7th, For every Barque or Ship without Topps, Six Pence.
8th, For every small Boat that beareth Anchor, Four Pence.
gth, And for such of these Ships or Barques that cast Anchors, not
having a buoy thereto, in any navigable River, Shall forfeit to the
6th,
one
Water-Bayliffe three shillings and four pence.

loth
nth, For Grounding every Barque Six Pence, and for every
Stranger one Shilling.
i2th, And for every Vessel laden with Corne, Coal, Salt, one
measure where%vith they usually measure the aforesaid Corne, or Coal,
or Salt, and every Vessel laden with Wine, Iron, Timber, Freestone,
Hardstone, Clappboards, Deal boards, Masts, Millstones or Grindstones, for Baylinge of every one of these one shilling.
i3th, The water-Bayliffe is to have of every Boat of Herrings,
fresh or Salted, for the fishing time, one 100, be they huddled or
barrelled.
i4th, The Water-Bayliffe is to have for every Bloodshed within his
Jurisdiction happening, three shillings and four pence.
i5th, All Deodands, Fynes, Forfeitures, Presentments, Bloodsheds,
& Casualties, under 20, according to the Custom of the Admiralty are
to be divided into four Partes, whereof the halfe is to go to the Judge,
the other equally to be divided betwixt the Register & Marshall which
was So Settled in regard they have no Salaries allowed them."
Mayor's Fees.
For the admission of every Freeman, any sum not exceeding,
For giving judgment in every Action,
at present,
Signing and sealing every execution is.
Taxing every bill of costs thereupon
;
Seal of Mayoralty to any Certificate, Bill, of health, pass, &c.

For every lease granted by the Towne,
License from every fishing Boat, from a Forreyner,
From a Freeman for the same,
Mayor's Fees, as Clerk of the Market.
1
For every firkin of Butter, sold or going through the Towne,
For every load of Graine,
For a Sheep, Lamb, Swine, or Calf, dead or alive
For every Cow or Bullock, dead or alive,
a horse or mare, sold or book'd,
every sack of Meal, or Wheat, &c.
everv piece of Cloth, Woollen or Linen, if under 10 yards,
If above ten yards,
For any Shoemaker or Co%vpers standing,
every sack of Wool,
every
every
every
every
every
every
Pack
of
Wool,
sack of Potatoes, apples, or nuts,
10
o
o
o
i
c
o
SJ
006
026
o 13
o b
o 3
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
X
4
r
j
'
r
i
002
o o
003
o o
i
Pedlars Stall,
Clothyers Standing,
o
o
Horse draught of Timber,

Dozen of Cleft Boards,
o
o
Saunders Brenien, John Bremen, David

Samuel Woodside, Thomas Edwards, Jonn
in
behalf of themselves and others,
Getty, and Robert Murdoch,
to the House of Commons, complaining that
presented a petition
Ed%vard Clements, late mayor of Carrickfergus, and Richard Horseman,
1
In
Edmond,
October,
James
1707,
Carr,
then mayor, made the petitioners pay toll for Butter and other goods
their petition \vas
carried through Carrickfergus, and praying relief
referred to a committee, and we learn no more of this business.
Irish House of Commons.
Journals of the
:
4 68
every Load of Barrel Staves,
every Green Hide,
Every Kipp,
Every Hebeus Corpus, or Writt of Error,
For scaling every Dicker of Leather,
Recorder's Fees.
o
o
o
o
o
i
i
05
068
004
For every Freeman upon his admission,

Persusall of every deed granted by the Towne,
03
&
034
Sheriff's Fees.
For
ever)'
person attached and having given in Bail,
25.
2d.
at present,
For every person attached, and having presently agreed with

is.
now disputed,
every person committed in every action of debt,
For every person committed for Treason, Burglary, &c.
no\v
4d.
All the rest of the fees as other Sheriffs.
plaintiff,
135.
Towne
Clerk's Fees.
For every summons, or attachment,

Appearance and Bail, 4d. at present the
;
like
060-
006
expence of the
total
is,
For every Freeman on admission, IDS. 6d. at present,

Withdrawing any action before tryal is. 4d. now,
Entry of Judgment,
;
Drawing the Execution,

Drawing any deed or lease from
Recogniences taken
in
the towne,
o.
034
026
o
DIG
o
0264
006
006
004
006
046
o 6
006
006
13
Court,
Reading a Petition (except the poors),

Writing any Summonces,
Fileing Declaration or Plea,
Drawing a Warrant, syned by the Mayor,

Every Submission to an Indictment,
livery Traverser,
Drawing an order on every Petition,

Drawing a Certificate that passes the seal of Mayorality,
o i o
Copy of Declaration, plea, or Bond,
At present the total amount of fees to the Town-Clerk on an actbu
As
i.
passing through the court, and execution thereon, is about
Clerk of Peace, his fees are regulated by acts of parliament.
Sword Bearer's
Fees.
For every Freeman on Admission,

Water Bailiff's Fees.
For every Freeman on his Admission,
Sergeants at Mace.
For every Summons or attachment, Served upon a Freeman
in the town or Suburbs, 3d.
now,
Upon any not a freeman, 4d. now,
For every Summons or attachment served out of the Suburbs,
and Within the bounds of the Corporation, is. now,
On the Admission of every Freeman,
On every oath administered in Court, or in the Mayor's
room, now not for room,
;
Attorney's Fees.
One
fee in every Action, viz.
Another
fee,
if
the Tryall,
the action be
$, or above upon
or Plea,
Drawing a Declaration
Joining of Issue,
At present (1823),
i
ii.
the
whole
of
the
attorney's fees
amount
026
o
o-
006
006
022
004
004
026
026o
o
o
to
about
469
BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.
Some account
of the noble family of Chichester.

(See Page
197).
Arthur Chichester, the first of this

family who came to Ireland
was the youngest son of Sir John
Chichester, of Raleigh Devonshire'
At an early age he entered Exeter
College, Oxford, where he remained
but a short time, being obliged to
fly into Ireland on account of some
juvenile indiscretions, where he remained till his
pardon was obtained
from Queen Elizabeth.

On his return to England he received a
commission in the navy, and in 1588, was commander of one of the
which
ships
destroyed the Spanish Armada.
Shortly after he went to
the West Indies, under the orders of Sir Francis
Drake; and on his
return sailed for Spain, as a volunteer with the Earl of
Essex, where
his relation Paul Chichester
being killed, he was presented with his
company. Afterwards he served in Flanders, and was wounded at the
siege of Amiens, and for his distinguished courage he received the
honor of knighthood, from Henry IV. King of France. Soon after he
was appointed to
Ireland, and on
Drogheda,
the
command
his
arrival
where he was
of a regiment of 1200 men destined for

was quartered for some time at
made sergeant-major-general of the army
there,
1
serving in that kingdom.
In autumn, 1599, we find
him in garrison at Carrickfergus, and

in August the following year, by orders of the Lord
Deputy Mountjoy,
he laid \vaste all the country within twenty miles of that town. June,
1601, he joined Lord Mountjoy near Dundrum, and having received a
reinforcement of 200 men, in July he took Castlcreagh from Brian
M'Art O'Neill, and in October was recommended by the Lord Deputy,
as the fittest man "in England or Ireland," to be made governor of
Ulster.
August, 1602, he took from Tyrone the fort of Ennislaughlin,
and afterwards accompanied the Lord Deputy in the pursuit of that
chieftain into Fermanagh, and in the following January expelled Brian
M'Art O'Neill out of the woods and fastnesses of Killultagh. 1
April, 1603, he was admitted a privy counsellor, and appointed
governor of Carrickfergus for life, with a salary of thirteen shillings
per day, and also governor of the fort of Mountjoy, and commandant
of the forces stationed in the Dufferin, Killultagh, the Clanebuys,
with liberty to employ
Kilwarlin, the Little-Ards, Route, and Glynns
the troops quartered in those places as he thought fit, and the
inhabitants thereof "to attend upon him, and be at his direction."
He was likewise constituted admiral of Loughneagh, by the name of
Lough Sidney, alias, Lough Chichester, with the fishery of the said
lough, as far as the leap on the river Bann.
February, 1603-4, he was appointed Lord Deputy of Ireland, which
and established the circuits of assize
situation he held twelve years
In 1609, he had a grant of the entire
for Connaught and Munster.
called
then
of
Innishowen,
O'Doghertie's country,* and rated
barony
The following year he was
worth upwards of ^1000 per annum.
granted the castle of Dungannon, with 1320 acres of land adjoining;
and in November, 1621, he had a general confirmation of all his
;
Moryson's History of Ireland. Lodge's Peerage.
From Sir Cahir O'Dogherty, son of Sir John O'Dogherty. In
we fi 11 ^ the lineal descendant of Sir Cahir, a schoolmaster,
J 779.
presenting a petition to the Earl of Donegall, to be admitted teacher of
Maudlin school, Innishowen. London Gentleman's Magazine, 1797.
-
former deeds and patents, in which was included the castle, manor,
and town of Belfast.
His grants of lands in several other counties
were also extensive.
In 1612, he was created Lord Baron Belfast;
and in 1622, was sent ambassador to the princes of the German Union.
He married Letitia, daughter of Sir John Perrot, by whom he had
one son who lived only a few weeks.
February, 1624, he died
in London, and in the following year was interred at Carrickfergus,
where his lady had been buried in 1620.
Having no surviving issue, his estates then valued worth ^TSooo
but his
per annum, devolved to his brother Sir Edward Chichester
title being limited to issue male, Charles I. conferred it anew on Sir
Edward, and also created him viscount Carrickfergus, and appointed
him governor of that town, admiral of Loughneagh, and governor of
Culmore fort. He married Anne, daughter and heir of John Coplestone, of Eggesford, county of Devon, by whom he had Arthur, John,
;
Edward,
and
Elizabeth.
He
died
July
1648,
and
was buried
at
1
Eggesford church.
"In the third year of Charles I. Arthur Chichester Esq. son and
heir apparent to Edward Lord Viscount Chichester, obtained a grant
in reversion of the government of Carrickfergus and all the forces
within the precincts, with full power to kill, burn, and destroy, by
martial law, or otherwise, all enemies to the state, whether foreign or
On the
This grant is made during his natural life.
domestic."
breaking out of the rebellion of 1641, he raised at his own charge a2
regiment of horse, and another of foot, for the service of the crown.
March, 1647, he was created Earl of Donegall, with limitation of that
honour to the issue male of his father, whom he succeeded the following
He died at Belfast, March i8th, 1674 ; he had three wives, but
year.
having no surviving male issue, his titles and estates devolved to his
nephew Arthur, eldest son of his brother John.
Arthur, second Earl of Donegall, married Jane, daughter of John
Itchingham, of Dunbroody, county of Wexford, by whom he had four
sons and three daughters, viz. Arthur, John Itchingham, who in 1715,
and 1721, was one of the representatives in parliament for Belfast;
Edward, afterwards rector of Cloneagh, who married Elizabeth,
Charles, and three daughters.
daughter of Captain John Chichester
He died early in 1682.*
a regiment of foot, in
commanded
Arthur, third Earl of Donegall,
In 1702, he went out with the army to
the reign of King William.
On the
and was made major - general of the Spanish forces.
;
Spain,
loth April, 1706, he was killed near Barcelona.

By his second wife,
Catherine Forbes, only daughter of Arthur Earl of Granard, he had
two sons and six daughters, viz. Arthur, his successor, John born 1700,
who in the parliaments of 1725, and 1745, was one of the representatives
and by his wife Elizabeth, daughter of
for the borough of Belfast
Sir Richard Newdegate, had two sons, Arthur and John, the former of
whom succeeded his uncle in his title and estates as Earl of Donegall.
to
Catherine was married in
Clotworthy, Lord Viscount
1713,
Massereene Mary died unmarried. Jane, Frances, and Henrietta, were
unfortunately burnt to death in the castle of Belfast, April 25th, 1708.*
;
Lodge's Peerage.
MS. Anthologia Hibernica.

*At page 200 it is stated that he
be an error.
3
Lodge's
died in 1705; this
is
believed to
Peerage. This awful accident was occasioned by the

carelessness of a servant who left a fire of wood burning in a room
which she was airing. At the same time there also perished a daughter
of Mr. Berkley's, rector, and a servant named Catherine Douglass;
Mary Taggart, servant, escaped through the flames. MS.
Arthur, fourth Earl of Donegall, married in 1716, Lucy, eldest

daughter and coheir to Robert Ridgway, Earl of Londonderry,' but had
no issue. He died Spetember 1757, and was succeeded
by his nephew,
Arthur, who, November iath, 1761, married Anne, daughter of James
Duke of Hamilton, who died at Bath, November nth, 1780.
By her
he had three sons and four daughters. October
25*, 1788, he married
at Bath, Charlotte, relict of Thomas Moore, of
Barn, daughter of Conway Spencer, Trumery, and sister of General Sir Brent Spencer. She
died at Fisherwick, September igth, 1789.
October i2th, 1790, he
married Barbara, daughter of Dr. William Godfrey he had no issue
either
of
the
last
by
marriages.
July, 1791, he was created Marquis
of Donegall.
He died at St. James's Square, London, January sth,
and
was
succeeded
his
eldest son George Augustus, born
1799,
by
August i3th, 1769, who August Sth, 1795, married Anna, daughter of
Sir Edward May, Bart, by whom he had a numerous issue.
December
Sth, 1822, his eldest son, George Hamilton, Earl of Belfast, married
Harriot, daughter of the late Earl of Glengall, and sister of the present
;
earl.
It is not a little remarkable that Sir Humphrey May, ancestor to
the present Marchioness of Donegall and minister to James I. for the
affairs of Ireland, was the person who procured from King James the
patent of Lord Baron of Belfast, for Sir Arthur Chichester, then Lord
1
Deputy of Ireland, the Marquis's distinguished ancestor.
Additional Notices of the Chichester Family.

Arthur, who succeeded in 1757, and became fifth Earl of Donegall, and
who was created a British peer by the title of Baron Fisherwick of Fisherwick,
Staffordshire, in 1790. and advanced in the Irish peerage to the dignity of
Earl of Belfast and Marquis of Donegall in 1791. His eldest son, George
Augustus, inherited the marquisate in 1799, and in 1844 he was succeeded by
his son, George Hamilton, the third marquis, who had represented CarrickThis peer was created
fergus, Belfast, and County Antrim in Parliament.
Baron Innishowen and Carrickfergus, in the peerage of the United Kingdom
When he died, in 1883, his British barony became extinct,
in August, 1841.
but his other honours devolved upon his brother Edward, Dean of Raphoe,
who became the fourth marquis, and who married Amelia, daughter of Henry
Deane O'Grady, Esq., of The Lodge, County Limerick, and Stillorgan Castle,
County Dublin. Their son, Gedrge Augustus Hamilton Chichester, born
June, 1822, succeeded to the marquisate in 1889, and also to the dignities of
Hereditary Lord High Admiral of Lough Neagh and Governor of CarrickMarried, in 1859, Lucy Elizabeth Virginia, (laughter of Henry
fergus Castle.
Holt Oliver, Eq., of Weston Priory, Somerset, but this marriage was annulled
In 186, he married Mary Ann Williams, daughter of
four years later.
Edward Cobb, Esq., of Wright's Lane, Kensington, and Arnold, Kent. This
lady died in 1901, and in December, 1902, he married Violet Gertrude, only
Nova
daughier of the late Henry St. George Twining, Esq., of Halifax,
He died May 19th, 1904, aged 81 years, and was succeeded in the
Scotia.
title by his son, Edward Aithur Donald St. George Hamilton, Earl of
Belfast, born 7th October, 1903, and at the time of his father's death seven
months' old. The family property in Belfast and Carrickfergus passed to the
late Countess of Shafteslmry, daughter of the third marquis, and through her
descended to the present Earl of Shaftcsbury, her son.
Some account
of the
Davys family,
family, who settled at Carrickfergus,

Soon after we
arrived from North Wales, early in the ibth century.
those who obtained
find, the names of Joseph and Ezekiel Davy amongst
The
first
persons
Lodge's Peerage.
of
this
Anthologia Hibernica, V.
4,
p. 93.
472
grants of lands from the body corporate, and at the same time they were
admitted burgesses of the borough. 1
In 1630, John Davys, son and
heir of Ezekiel, appears on the roll of aldermen of Carrickfergus, and
in 1639, he was chosen a
burgess to represent that town in parliament.
Early in 1656, he purchased from Sir John Clotworthy his large castellated mansion in Carrickfergus, which from that period was called
Davys 's Castle. In April the following year, we find Col. Thomas
Cooper, governor, recommending to Henry Cromwell, that as John
Davys was a person disaffected to the government, he should not be
permitted to live in that town, and in a mansion overlooking its guards.
August, 1656, he was elected to represent the town of Carrickfergus in
Cromwell's parliament about to be held at Westminster; but from his
being deemed so very discontented with the ruling powers, he was not
2
In 1659, he served the office of mayor for
permitted to take his seat.
the said town, and in May the following year he proceeded to Holland,
and waited on Charles II. at Breda; 3 perhaps, for the purpose of
informing him of the state of the public mind in the north of Ireland.
In 1661, he was one of the knights of the shire for the county of
Antrim. 4 He died in 1667, leaving issue Hercules, Henry, and John,
all of whom held commissions in the army.
In the manuscripts of
date 1660, we find the following notice of the above
Henry Gill, under
" This
John Davys
John Davys was he who raised himself and
:
^1300 Hundred pounds,
sterling, being part of the Corporafor which the Customs were sold, and never paid one
to the Towne, nor his successors, though he left a good
estate that he acquired by this money he unjustly got, and purchases
he made from John Savage's heirs, for which he never paid them
family by
tion
money,
penny for it
one penny."
About 1658,
the names of Edmond, Ezekiel, John, and Henry

Davys are frequently noticed in the records of Carrickfergus, as
members of the Assembly. They are believed to have been sons of
Joseph already mentioned it is at least certain that the two former
were brothers.
In 1684, Henry was high sheriff of the county
Antrim; and in 1701, John Davys served the same office. Edmond died
the
1695-6, leaving his property to his sons, Samuel and John Davys
latter was a captain in the army, and in 1705, served the office of
He died in 1711. Samuel died in
high sheriff of the county Antrim.
1719, leaving his estates to Ezekiel Davys Wilson.
About this time it becomes impossible to give a regular narrative of
several persons of the name of
the different members of this family
Ezekiel and Hercules Davys are mentioned as members of the corporaand in the records of that town of 1712, three
tion of Carrickfergus
individuals called John Davys are on the rolls of its aldermen and
In 1714, we find John Davys, jun. mayor; in Sept. i7 2 3i
burgesses.
1741, John Davys,
John Davys, sen. an alderman, died in London
5
;
burgess, son of John, died at Carrickfergus.

now return to Captain Hercules Davys, son and heir of the
In 1661 and 1695, he was one of the burgesses in
first noticed John.
Parliament for Carrickfergus, and in the former year he married Lettice,
We
whom he had two

John and Hercules. He was a very loyal man, and in 1689, he
and his son John were attainted by King James's parliament; he died
March 1711. Henry was one of the representatives in parliament for
he
Carrickfergus, in the years 1692, 1703, and 1709, in which last year
youngest daughter of Charles, Viscount Moore, by

sons,
died.
2
3
5
*
Records
Records
Records
Records
Records
of
of
of
of
of
Carrickfergus.
Carrickfergus.. Thurloe's State Papers.
*
Commons' Journals.
Carrickfergus.
MS.
Carrickfergus.
Carrickfergus.
Lodge's Peerage.
473
Hercules, son of Hercules, was father of Arthur, who, in 1709, was
of the county Antrim
in 1713 he sat in parliament for the
corporation of Carrickfergus, as did his uncle John Davys in the same
Tradition
that
year.
says,
they were among the most violent tories of
that day.
Arthur married Catherine, youngest daughter of William,
first viscount Mountjoy, and had issue
William-Henry, Hercules, Mary,
and Anne; he died 1736.'
John, son of captain Hercules, married in 1690, Anne, eldest
daughter of \Vm. second viscount Charlemont, by whom he had seven
He died intestate, in Dublin,
sons, and the same number of daughters.
March i2th, 1743, leaving two sons and four daughters alive, viz.
Charles, James, Sarah, Judith, Alice, and Jane." Charles was for several
years an officer in the army James was comptroller of the ordnance,
and in 1749, married Mary, daughter of \Vm. Pole, Ballyfin. He died
-at Glasnevin in 1761, without issue.
In 1740, Sarah was married to
Thomas O'Callaghan she died in 1745, leaving two sons and two
Alice to
Judith was married to John Tuckey, surgeon
daughters.
Michael Howard, merchant, Dublin Jane died unmarried. 1
The property of John Davys was valued at ^38,080,6.2, but his
widow relinquished her right to administer in favour of her son Charles,
In June
with whom she went to reside at Hampstead, near Dublin.
1755, she died intestate, on which her daughter Alice obtained letters
of administration, and on the ist January, 1757, she and her husband
filed a bill against her brother Charles, to cause him to account for the
assets of her father, with interest, and also for the jointure of her
After
mother, to whom it was alledged he was indebted ^1885.
several answers and rejoinders had passed, in one of which Charles
sheriff
^300 per annum, for the maintenance of his mother, the suit
being likely to be decided against him, In December, 1761, he suddenly
moved the bill to the English House of Peers, which suspended all
In April 1762, the bill,
proceedings in the Irish Court of Chancery.
without anything decisive being affected, was returned, and again
ordered
to take Charles
hancery, and a Pursuivant was
lodged in
charged
(.
into custody, for his neglect in not answering certain interrogatories before said court.
From 1762 to 1768, the proceedings in Chancery were continued
latter year
through all the protracted forms of that court, and in the
Michael and Alice Howard dying, their executors. Sir Annesley Stewart
and Edward Lucas, filed their bill of revivor, but Charles Davys dying
on the gth July, 1769, the case was for some time abated.
his will disinherited his sisters and all their offspring.
Charles
Davys
by
His personal property was admitted
to be
worth .12,185
1221 125. 3^d.

the yearly value of his estate
Dublin,
in the counties of Kildare, Antrim,
He
i$s.
8d. and
devised his estates
and Carrickfergus, to
first and
Cadwallader, Lord Blaney, for life, with remainder to his
other sons and in failure of such issue, his estates in the counties of
Antrim and Carrickfergus, to John Caulfield, and his Dublin and
To Mary
Kildare estates to the Hon. Francis Caulfield for ever.
an annuity of
300, with ^200
Davys, alias, Kelly, his wife, he left
4
executors.
each, to Faithful Fortescue and Adam Noble his
and Charles Lucas, filed a bill
June, 1770, Sir Annesley Stewart,
;
of the said Charles, but

Chancery against the trustees of the estate
widow "(who had married Emanuel Tomasyne), dying in 1774, the
the Hon.
case was again abated. In the following year Edward Lucas,
Francis Caulfield, and Lord Blanoy died.
in
his
1
*
Lodge's Peerage. MS.

MS. Lodge's Peerage.
Case in Chancery.
Case in Chancerv.
474
In 1776, Sir Annesley Stewart again revived the suit against JamesE. Caulfield, Cadwallader Davys, Lord Blaney, and Faithful Fortescue,
and on the ist August, 1777, the Chancellor referred the case to Charles
Walker, master in Chancery July 1784, the master made his report, to
which five objections were taken by Adam Noble, surviving executor of
:
Charles Davys, and Andrew Thomas, Lord Blaney, by his guardians

the Rev. Robert Montgomery, and John Montgomery.
In 1786, the
case was again heard by the Chancellor, who declared, that he did not
think the master warranted to report, specially, as he had done, and
he was ordered to report again upon it. 1
March 1790, the case was heard at the bar of the Irish House of
Lords, after which the lands of the late Charles Davys were confirmed
Andrew
to
Thomas, Lord Blaney. A great part of these lands within
the counties of Antrim and Carrickfergus, have been sold off within
these few years.
Some
account of the
Dalway
-family.
at Carrickfergus from Liverpool, August 2oth,

few
1578, a cornet in the army of Walter Devereux, Earl of Essex.years after he married Jane O'Byrne, or O'Bryne, grand-daughter of
Hugh O'Neill, Earl of Tyrone, and related by the mother to Shane
M' Bryan O'Neill, of the lower Clandebuy. From Shane M' Bryan he
obtained a grant of the greater part of the Tough of Bradenisland,
alias, Brinny-island (Braidisland). and the lands of Kilroot, for which
he was to pay a few cows yearly, during O'Neill's life; and with
to his tenure afterwards there was introduced the following clause
" And after
my decease my heirs shal pay to Shane M' Bryan O'Nei!!,
or his heirs, portionally, according as the rest of the freeholders of the
In Witness
said Shanes Contry shal pay by the acre or estimation.
John Dalway landed
wherof
I have hereunto put my hande,

John Dalli/th Feby. 1591.
waye." 3Leave was also given to cut timber in the woods of Shane
M'Bryan.
In 1595, Shane M'Bryan O'Neil joining in Tyrone's rebellion he
was taken prisoner and confined in the castle of Carrickfergus, where
he died.* Another account says that he was surprised and slain near
5
Ballyhill, by John Dal way's men.
On the death of Shane M'Bryan his estate became forfeited to the
crown, but on the loth of April, 1606, John Dalway obtained from King
James a grant of such lands as he held in right of his contract with
About the same time he purchased from James Hamilton,
O'Neill.
afterwards Lord Clandebuy, the Cynament of Ballynure, and on the 8th
letters
July, 1608, they were with his other possessions, erected by
Liberty was also granted to hold
patent into the manor of Dalway.
a Friday's market, and a fair in each year, at Thomastown (Straid),
within the Cynament of Ballynure.
May 28th, 1609, John Dalway made a fee farm lease for ever, of
the lands of Bradenisland, containing 2870 acres, to William Edmonston,
laird of Duntreath, at the yearly rent of .160 gs. 4d. being one mark
In this deed Edmonston was bound to furnish five
Scotch per acre.
able horsemen, properly equipped, to attend every year, for forty days,
He was also bound to furnish
the general Hastings of the lord deputy.
five davs' labour of his tenants and horses, to draw timber and slates1
Case
in
Chancerv.
MS.
MS.
*MS.
Tradition.
'
MS.
Lodge's Collections.
475
a castle about to be built by John Dahvay, near Ballynure
and
within five years lo build a mansion of " Lyme and stone, covered with
" 1
In the same
slate, which shall cost in the building
300, Sterl
deed twelve acres of land "of good arable, pasture, and meadow," are
"
also granted, for ever, to be annexed
as glebable land to and for the
Parish Church of Templecoran."
By his marrage with Jane O'Byrne he had only one child, Margaret,
for
to John Dobbs
to whom he made a freehold lease
of the lands now called Castle-Dobbs.
In 1613, John Dalway was one
of the representatives in the Irish parliament for the borough of
married about 1603,
Bangor.
On
the death of his first wife he married Jane Ewer, widow of

"
Jane, second wife of Mr.
Captain Norton, but had no issue by her.
unfaithful
to
his
bed,
Dallway, proving
Margaret Dobbs informed her
father of the intrigues of her step-mother," which caused such a breach
between them, that Margaret removed to Dublin, where her husband
3
held a situation in the Treasury.
Her step-mother, fired with an
implacable desire for revenge, prevailed on John Dalway to acknowledge
one Giles Dalway for his brother and also to make a will in favour of
Giles's two sons, both of whom were named John, for the purpose of
obtaining the favour of the old gentleman distinguishing them by the
names of John the elder, and younger. This Giles came to Ballyhill,
about 1599, and said, that he was brother to Captain John Dalway;
but John having no brother when he left home refused to acknowledge
him as a relation, but " gave him a small farm on the mountain above
;
Ballyhill."
In 1618, John Dalway being dangerously ill, expressed a desire to
see and be reconciled to his daughter, but her step-mother prevented
her getting the account till it was too late, as he was speechless when
On his decease the widow and John Dalway, the elder,
she arrived.
kept possession of the mansion house and the estate and a suit being
about to commence for their recovery by John and Margaret Dobbs,
William Edmonston offered to join them in the prosecution of their
of Bradendesign, provided they would confirm to him his bargain
declared
island.
They however considered his deed imperfect, and
"
she would
themselves certain of gaining the suit
Margaret said
lose the Horse or win the saddle," upon which Edmonston attached
himself to John Dalway, the elder, supplied him with money, and, upon
his coming of age a few years after, gave him his daughter Helen in
;
marriage.
law in the King's Bench immediately commenced between

John and Margaret Dobbs claiming the estate by virtue of
a will made by the late John Dalway, March 2oth, 1610, in favour of
and John Dalway, the elder, by a will made the 3ist
their son Foulk
In this suit Edmonston appeared as a
March, the following year.
material witness on behalf of John Dalway, the elder, and the case
for the reserved rents of
being tried by a jury, a verdict was obtained
and William Edmonston was committed till he should pay
the estate
made to the lord
his portion of the rent.
Application was afterwards
who referred the
deputy and council to put the plaintiffs into possession,
matte'r to William Jones, chief justice, Sir Francis Aungier, master of
the Rolls, and Sir Christopher Sibthorp, one of the judges of assize,
who made their award in favour of John and Margaret Dobbs; they
suit at
the parties
to the children of the said

paying yearly, certain sums therein specified
Giles.
MS.
MS.
MS.
'MS.
:!
Commons'
Journals.
On
an order for possession John Dobbs came from

into effect, but the defendants declaring " that they
had not submitted to that reference nor award," he was obliged to
return to Dublin without effecting his purpose. Soon after John Dobbs,
and his son lr oulk, set out for London, where they obtained the King's
letter, for a new grant of the lands of the late John Dalway, but they
were both lost in 1622, on their return off the bar of Chester. MarmaDublin
obtaining
to carry
it
duke Dobbs, nephew
to the late John, was now appointed guardian to

Hercules Dobbs, son of John, then only eight years old; and i 1623-4
in Chancery against John Dalway, the elder, and William
filed a
bill
i
Edmonston, praying that the trial might take place in an indifferent

"
county, as the defendants had
great influence upon the freeholders in
the County of Antrim." This suit not likely to be soon decided, was
the
advice
of
the
lord
chancellor
The
by
again left to reference.
referees were Lord Viscount Clandebuys, and Henry Lord Dockwra,
baron of Kilmore, who were empowered to bind the parties to stand to
their decision.
March gth, 1625, 6, those persons made the following
award
The house and demesne of Ballyhill, and the fee farm rent of
Braidisland, with lands in the libeities of Carrickfergus, were allotted
to John Dalway, the elder. 1
To Hercules Dobbs, the Cynament of
Ballynure, and the lands of Castlc-Dobbs, with the reversion of a
:
tenement
in Carrickfergus.
This award was agreed to, confirmed, and
a decree by the lord chancellor, Adam Loftus, December 4, 1626."
John Dalway, the elder, died 1665, leaving issue Alexander, Archibald, Henry, and Helen, the last of whom was married to Andrew
His widow was married to Col.
Clements, merchant, Carrickfergus.
James Wallace, who commanded the Covenanters at. the battle of the
Pentland Hills, in 1666, for which he was attainted. John Dalway, the
younger, entered into the army, and was afterwards distinguished by
the name of Captain John Dalway. In 1636, he was high sheriff of the
made
county of Antrim. He was married and left several children.''

Alexander married Ann, daughter of John Parks, Carrickfergus
and in 1662, served the office of high sheriff of the county of Antrim.
By his wife he had two sons, John and Robert, and three daughters,
viz. Eleanor, married to Edward Clements, Slraid, Mary to Anthony
Robert married Letitia,
Kerr, and Jane to James Shaw, Dunathie.
daughter of Captain John Dalway. John died Feb. 1687, leaving his
and at the decease of said
estate to his cousin, *Col. Robert Dalway
Robert, to his eldest son Alexander, and in default of issue to Henry,
second son of Robert. Colonel Dalway married first, Mary, daughter
of Sir John Williams, county Kent, widow of Charles, first Lord
Shelburne, and widow of Lieut. -General Henry Conyngham, of Slane.
She died in 1710, and was interred in St. Mary's, Dublin. He had a
second wife who survived him named Lettice.
Of his children, Alexander, Henry, Ann, and Eleanor are mentioned the latter was married
to Andrew Stewart, of the Castlestuart family.- Henry is said to have
married Ann, daughter of Henry Magee, Carrickfergus, who died 1746.
In 1695, Robert was one of the representatives in parliament for the
borough of Antrim, and in 1721, one of the burgesses in parliament for
His son Alexander married Ann Helena,
the borough of Newry.
daughter of Archibald Edmonston, Redhall, and had issue Robert,
Archibald, Elizabeth, Anne, Helena Emily, and Lettice, the last of
whom was married to John Hamilton, Ballyboyh county Cavan. In
1721, Anne was married to the Rev. Samuel Haliday, Belfast; and in
1
1
:f
MS.
MS.
MSS.
Bentham's Baronatage.
* Another account
says his uncle.
.1/S.
477
was married
Elizabeth
i7-.v
same town.
to
On
John
Macartney,
merchant,
of
the death of his first wife in 1694, he married

Feb. 1711, he was again married to Helen,
youngest
of
Sir
It does not appear 'that he
daughter
John Shaw, Greenock.
bad offspring by those marriages. He died in 1718, at which time he
was one of the representatives in parliament for Carrickfergus. l
His eldest son Robert succeeded to the family patrimony.
In
January 1718, he married Mary, daughter of Joseph Marriot, brewer,
Francis-street, Dublin, by which marriage he got some property in the
In 1740, he served the office of high
county and city of Dublin.
sheriff for that county.
By the above marriage he had offspring,
Eleanor died unmarried
Marriot, Ann, Eleanor, and Mata-Hittabella.
;
and
in
Mata-Hittabella was married to Noah Webb, on whose

1791
Wilson.
death she married
Robert, on the decease of his first
wife, in June 1753, married Jane, widow of Gawin Steel, of Craig's
he got a large fortune he had no
with
whom
near
castle,
Ballymena,
His will is dated June ist 1761.
An Alexander
children by her.
Dalway, who is also believed to have been son of Robert, was an
June
army, and was
killed in Scotland, in the rebellion of 1745.'"

of the burgesses in parliament for
and independent
of truly
liberal
He
Carrickfergus.
In
principles, and was much respected by every person who knew him.
17X4, he was one of the representatives for the county of Antrim to the
officer in the
In
1761,
was one
was a man
Marriott
NATIONAL CONVF.NTIOV which met in Dublin. He died March 7, 170^,

He was never married, and bequeathed his property
his 7ist year.
to his nephew Noah Webb, an officer in the Royal Navy, on condition
of his taking the sirname of Dalway.
May 22, 1705, Noah Dalway was
:i
in
married to Eleanor, daughter of the Rev. Con way Bonning. February

in
parliament for
1799, he was chosen one of the representatives
the legislative Union with
Carrickfergus, and most strenuously opposed
Groat Britain. In 1801. he was the first member from that town to the
He died July I7th, 1820, aged 76 years, leaving
Imperial Parliament.
sons and six daughters.
Additional notices of the Dalway family.
The children of Noih Dalway. who was married to Miss Banning:
and
Marriot. married Euphemia, dau. of Thomas Henrv, Esq.. Castledawon,
had issue Marri' t', Robert, and Euphemia (married to Kev Dr. A. L. Lee,
Rector of AhoghilM. Noali, Lieut. K.N., born 30 Ap., 1799. married, in 18-8,
and four daughters). John Bennmg,
Emily Gibbon (and had issue two sons
Henry, born I4'h Dec., 1803.
horn 3rd Dec., 1802. Capt. 2nd Queen's.
1st Gilbert M'llween, Esq
George Montague, born 1810. Anne married
and 2nd George W. Braddell, Esq, Mary Marparet married Joseph Barns,
Ellen married Peter Kirk, E>q.. D.L., M.P., J.P. ; she
K*i., Captain R.A.
Millicent Tane married ist Thomas Milter. Lsq., of
died November. 1853.
H.E.I.C.S. Jane,
second
anH
Philip Fletcher. Esq., Capt.
Carrickfergus.
who married William Duncan Davys Wilson, Esq., died at Easi bourne Ap.,
died
Baldurn
E<q.
Lucy married Henry
1892; be died Xovemlier, 1841.
Marriott Robert Dalway, born
Mahatabella died 22n'1 April, 1815.
1822.
and married in
November i7th, 1832. was educated at Taivin Hall. Chester,
Barnes 61
i8w, to Elizabeth, onlv child of Colonel Andrew Armstrong Mrs. Da
way
sons and one daughter.
Royals, by whom he had issue thr-e
five
of Muckletord, Uorsetsmre.
J.P., late Lieutenant
1
Antrim
Family Papers.
mon's Journals.
2
Family Papers.
3
ny m
Militia,
born
Lodge's Peerage.
Tradition.
Belfast Xeu's-Letter.
-~~
".
2th July, 1861, di
Exshaw's Magazine.
Com-
John, born 22 August, 1865 ;

1873: and Elizabeth, who was
Parish
Church, to Commander
1st, 1881,
Templecorran
Horace Rochfort, R.N., son of Horace Noel Rochfort, Esq., D.L.,
Marriott Robert Dal way, Esq., of Bellahill, and
Clogrenane, Co. Carlow.
Lome, Victoria, Australia, was M.P. for Carrickfergus, 1868 till 1880, J. P.
for Carrickfergus, and J. P. and L).L. for Co. Anirim. High Sheriff for
Carrickfergus, 1859; Chairman of the Municipal Commissioners, 1861-4;
re-elected December, 1873; an Independent Liberal-Conservative; first
elected for Carrickfergus November, 1808; isaJ.P. for South Bailiwick, of
born 26th November,
1862
Andrew Armstrong, born January
I3th,
Robert,
married Dec.
at
Victoria, Australia.
Some account
Robert
of the Ellis family.
in the army, and came to

married a lady of the Norton
of whose brothers had commissions in Queen Elizabeth's
Elice,
Ireland with Sir
or Ellis,
Hugh
was a captain
1
He
Clotworthy.
family, five
2
forces in Ireland.
Additional notes copied from Win. Smith Ellis's "Notices of the Ellises
of England, Scotland, and Ireland."
There can be little doubt that this
Robert Ellis was of the Stoneacre family. The Kentish families of Moore
(afterwards Earls of Dro_;heda), Beresford (Earls of Tyrone), St. Leger,
Norton, and Whyte all went over to Ireland in the reign of Elizabeth,
Thomas Ellis, of Stoneacre, who died 1583, mentions in his will his brotherin-law, Mr. John Whyte, and Robert Ellis might have been his nephew.
In 1601, he resided in Carrickfergus, and in 1606-7, ne obtained
grants, for ever, of two half shares of the Corporation lands, situated
in the Middle Division.
He had three sons, John, Edmund, and Henry
the two last are mentioned as being officers in the army.
Of Henry no
;
farther particulars have been obtained, except that he

3
left several children.
John married Mary, daughter
of
was married and
Arnold Mitchel,
and
his
father
Robert, in 1634, having settled on him his property in Carrickfergus,

he removed from that town soon after, leaving his lands and tenements
These
charge of Richard Kane and John Willoughby, attornies.
worthy guardians immediately transferred his property to one Eccles,
who in 1661, sold the same to captain Solomon Faith, who obtained a
new deed from the Corporation in his own name. In 1664, we find
Andrew Willoughby claiming said lands and tenements in behalf of the
He was informed by the Assembly that the
children of John Ellis.
leases had expired, and that the lands had been granted to others.*
in
1614, Edmond Ellis, son of Robert, was provost-marshal of the

s
a few yea^s after
forces under Sir Henry Dockwra, at Loughfoyle
we find a lieutenant Ellis granted 400 acres of land near Killmacrenan,
In an
county of Donegall, who is alleged to be the same person.
:
"
Edmund
Lord Chichester's property, taken 1621,
Edmond
de la Cane, Gent." appears as one of the jurors.
married Jane Stewart, and had issue Foulk, Edmond, Francis, Anthony,
6
and Henry, all of whom embraced a military life.
On the
Foulk married Margaret Kennedy, but left no issue.
persecution of the Presbyterians of Ulster, by Earl Strafford, in 1638-0,
of
a
he sought refuge in Scotland, where he raised
upwards
company
-of 100 men, who had also been banished from Ireland.
They are
inquisition regarding
Ellis,
2
3
4
5
'
MS.
MS.
of the Rev.
Andrew
Stuart.

MS.
Pvnner's Survev.
479
"
both resolute and religious." In 1640, \ve find a

captain
Ellis, probably, the same person, commanding a company of Irish
soldiers at \e\vburn, and assisting the Scottish Covenanters in their
invasion of England
and at the same time receiving ^'15 which had
been collected for his support at Stranrawer.
About October, 1641, he
was nominated captain in Sir John Clotworthy's regiment of foot, and
soon after \vas appointed serjeant-major of the same corps. September
:6th, 1642, he made his will at Desertmartin, county of Derry, just
before going into battle, in which he is believed to have fallen. Amongst
his property bequeathed to his wife, and his brothers Edmond and
2
Francis, were the lands of Clough Castle.
-described as
Edmond was also a captain in the regiment of Sir John Clotworthy,

of which he became major.
In November, 1646, he was chosen an
elder of the Presbyterian congregation of Templepatrick 3 and early in
1649, was one of a council of officers assembled at Lisburn, under the
orders of General Monk. In April, this year, he marched from Lisburn
with Glencairn's regiment, to attack General Sir George Munroe, who
had landed from Scotland, and was ravaging the northern part of the
On arriving near Clough he sent a message to
county of Antrim.
Munroe to learn the intention of his coming to Ireland with an armed
force.
Munroe replied, that he merely desired the restoration of lawful
From the smallness
authority, and that he would oppose all sectaries.
of his number, and the irresolution displayed by them, Major Ellis was
obliged to appear satisfied with this vague answer, and returned to his
In June, we find him governor of Carrickfergus,
former quarters. 4
which he was obliged to surrender, as already noticed, page 56, in this
work.
Francis was likewise a captain in the same corps, and in June
1649, commanded the garrison of Antrim, which town he surrendered
on honorable terms, on the 3oth of the same month, to the Lord of
Ards. 5
Vestiges of entrenchments cast up by him at this time remained
on the north side of the town of Antrim till of late years. He married
Ann, sister of Sir Hercules Langford, then an officer in Sir John
viz. Mary,
Clot%vorthy's regiment, by whom he had four daughters,
Mary, the eldest was married to
Ann, Frances, and Susanna.
Thacker. Susanna
Theophilus Burleigh, and their daughter Mary to Mr.
was married to Hercules Clements. On the death of Francis his widow
William
Burleigh, of
was married to William Burleigh, son of Colonel
the same corps, ancestor to William Dobbs Burleigh, Carrickfergus.
She afterwards petitioned the government commissioners for the arrears
Sir John Clotworthy certified that he
of pay due to her late husband.
had laid down his arms at a certain time, and kept out of the way,
The commissioners,
lest he should be imprisoned by the opposite party.
there being allegations
therefore, did not then comply with her request,
;
against him of a different nature."

Of Anthony* no account whatever
Mdair's MS.
2
has
reached
us.
MS
MS.
An Account
of
the
Parish
of
Templepatrick,
by
S.
II.
Stevenson, M.D.
<Adnir's MS.
Montgomery's MS.
MSS. of the Langford Family.
r* Anthony Ellis, with Francis, Edward, and Hercules Ellis, signed
inhabitants of the garrison of Enniskillm tc
address from the officers and
his w,11, made 1745 <he year
WilHam and Mary, 1698. A Hercules Ellis, in
5
"late Captain of Dragoons in the Kegiment

of his death), describes himself as
He lived for several years after he left the army at BallyoJ Lord Rothes.'"
to whom he
the family of "his cousin, Arthur Ellis,"
heady as a member of
480
alledgcd to have passed over to
1044, \ve find an Irish captain
Scotland
named
in
Ellis,
a military capacity.
In
serving with Montrose,
who on the i6th November, was taken prisoner, and carried to Aberdeen.
He was soon after liberated 1 while several officers taken about
the same period were put to death. 2 He was afterwards a
major in the
service of the Commonwealth, and on his
retiring from service, got
3
a debenture for lands in Leinster, which were since sold.
About 1696.
an Edmond Ellis (nephew of Foulk), resided at Brookhill, near Lisburn.
In 1697, we find him one of the executors to the will of the Countess of
Longford, and in the following year high sheriff of the county of
Antrim. He is reputed to have removed to London about 1702. From
him descended
Lady Molesworth, unfortunately burnt to death in

4
London, May 6th, 1763.
son
of
the first noticed Edmond, had issue Henry, Francis,
Henry,
Hercules, and Edward, all of whom were officers in the army or navy.
He had also a daughter Jane, married in 1699, to Richard Joy, Belfast.
In 1689, we find the names of Edward, Francis, Hercules, and Anthony
Ellis, to an address from the officers and inhabitants of the garrison of
Enniskillen to King William and Queen Mary.
From their names
and stations in life, they are alledged to have been of that family of
which we are treating.
Henry, son of Henry, on retiring from a military life married,
July 7th, 1711, Sarah, daughter of Edward Clements, Straid, and
resided many years in Belfast, of which town he was made a burgess
in 1707 and in 1717, 1720, and 1722, served the office of sovereign.
5
In the last of those years he died in office, leaving four sons and two
daughters.
Francis was an officer of Dragoons, and being severely wounded,
He settled at Prospect, near
obtained leave to sell his commission.
Carrickfergus, and married Anne, daughter of the above Edward
On the
Clements, by whom he had two sons, Henry and Hercules.
landed property of considerable value.

Hercules, son of Arthur below,
this period, and was godson of his relative of the same name.
Hercules, in his will, mentions his sisters, Elinor tix Edw. Armstrong, and
left
was born during
Dailies.
Ellis (traditional son of Anthony), of Bally-heady, Co. Cav.in,
his wife, Jane (whose will is dated 1740), had issue Margery, wife of
Sidney
n.v
Edward
by
Ellis, of Ballyueady, who married Margaret /.art /er, of

Clonanhill (one of the most beauiiful women of Ireland, celebrated by the
barH, Carolan, in his music as "Maggie Lauder," and in honour of whom her
descenden'.s bore and bear the crest of the family a griffin seg>eant), by
whom he had issue Jane Ellis, of Dunbar, Fermanagh, who, in her will, proved
Of these Gore
1792, mentions her brothers, Edward, Hercules, and Gore.
Ellis married Mary, sister of Henry Coddiugton, Esq., of Oldbridge, County
Johnston, and Arthur
Meath, M. A., and Hercules Ellis, who was an officer in the British army at
the conquest of Canada, and married her sister, Frances Codaington, daughter
of Nicholas C. and Anne Tennison, by whom he had issue (l) Rev. Arthur
Ellis, rector of Avdea, Co. Louth (who had a son, Arthur, married to Eliza
Lord) ; (3) Hercules Ellis, Capt. 49th Regt, lost at sea; (4) Dixie Ellis, Capt.
49th Reyt. dead; (5) Henry James Ellis, Capt. 62nd Regt, dead
Nicholas Ellis, of Lisnaroe, Co. Monaghan, living January, 1866.
issue, inter alia, Hercules Ellis, Esq., Barrister-at-Law, of Dublin.]
1
:l
and
(2)
who has
Spalding.
Monteith.
MS.
MS.
The
writer could not trace the descent of Lady Molesworth

he is certain she was not his daughter
from the above person
his grand-daughter.
perhaps,
"
MS.
Records of Belfast.
48 1
death of his first . wife he married Elizabeth
who died
October, 1732; he died February 5th, 1740-1.'
Hercules entered into the Royal Navy, in which service he obtained
a considerable fortune; and on
withdrawing from service retired to
,
Innisrush, county of Derry.

February lath, 1713, he married Mary
Dobbin, Carrickfergus, niece to Captain William Dobbin, of
Moneyglass, and had issue by her Henry and Hercules.
In 1754, Henry was
admitted an alderman of Carrickfergus, and in
he
married
May, 1758^
Elizabeth, only daughter of Dr. John Coleman,
Carrickfergus, and
widow of Dr. Dobbin, Belfast. She died at Innisrush,
July loth, 1794.
Having no offspring at his decease, the family property devolved to
his brother Hercules, of Duneane, who.
May aoth, 1768,' was married
in Crumlin church, county of
Derry to Ann Murray, of Ling, in the
same county, grandchild of the galfant Adam Murray, who so
bravely
2
defended the city of Derry in its ever memorable
siege.
By her he had
issue Henry, James, Hercules, and Mary.
He died at Duneane. April
she died in the city of Derry, December 2oth, 1822',
5th, 1782
aged
70 years.
Henry was an officer of a corps of yeomen, and bravely
di fenoVd thf: village of Randalstown when attacked
the
rebels
on
by
the ~th June, 1798.
He was afterwards a captain in the Londonderry
militia.
April igth, 1829, he died at Innisrush, in his 58th year;
he was married and left several children.
In May, 1789, Mary was
married to James Wilson, Belfast.
on
Edward/"*
quitting the army, settled near Clones, county of
Cavan, where some of his descendants still reside. He is supposed to
have married Mary, daughter of Thomas Whyte, of Redhills, in the
;
same county.
We now
'
Clements.
Henry and Hercules, sons of Francis, by Miss

was a captain in the army, and being acciCarrickfergus when that town was attacked by the French,
return to
The
latter
dentally in
in 1760, gallantly
assisted
in
its
defence.
On
the
reduction
of
the
army in 1763, he returned to his native place, and married Catherine,

widow of the Rev.
Barry, and daughter of Captain Adair, son
of Sir Robert Adair, Ballymena, but had no children.
He was twice
Mayor of Carrickfergus, and paid great attention to the duties of
He died at Prospect, January isth, 1792. Henry, the

his office.
elder brother, who died April 1798, was also several times Mayor of
said town
he married Eleanor, daughter of Waterhouse Crymble, of
;
Clements-hill, by whom he had offspring

and Mar}', who died unmarried. Millicent
:i
Henry,
Millicent, Nancy,
in December,
was married
M.S. Gill's MS.

M.S. Belfast News Letter.
["'Edward Ellis acquired a valuable property about four miles from Clones,
where he built a very handsome house called Farmhill, and where his family
The family became extinct in the male line
resided for some generations.
with the death of Captain Thomas Ellis, 18
(Ex inf. Hercules Ellis, Esq.)
It appears that this Edward Ellis was not the Edward Ellis who mas
married to Mary, daughter of Thomas Whyte, of Redhills, County Cavan,
" Edward Ellis, of Dublin, who died 1773," a son of a Thomas
but another
Ellis, of Monaghan (whose will was proved 1714), by Elizabeth, widow of
1
Whyte."]
late Mrs. Hunt, of Loughanmore, nee Eleanor Margaret Adair,

the Rev. James Hunt, Incumbent of Ahascragh, County Galway,
who died 13th April, 1909, sine frole, was the last of the descendants of
Charles Adair, of Loughanmore, who was married to Millicent Ellis in 1775.
Mrs. Hunt continued to reside at Loughanmore after her marriage, her
husband having taken up his residence there, and left his benefice at
Ahascragh in charge of a curate.
a
The
relict of
482
77Si
Loughanmore, and Nancy was married to the
Rev. Dr. C. Benning.
Henry married Jane, daughter of William Burleigh, Dublin, and by
He married secondly,
her, who died in 1795, he had no surviving issue.
Jane, daughter of James Craig, Carrickfergus, by whom he had one
daughter, Jane.'"
to Charles Adair,
Some account
Robert,
arrived from
the
first
of
this
of the
family
Lyndon
who
family.
settled
at
Carrickfergus,
with Sir Arthur Chichester, probably, in a

A few years after, the names of Roger, Walter,
military capacity.
Hugh, and John Lyndon, appear in the records of Carrickfergus, all
of whom are believed to have been sons of Robert. x
Roger succeeded to the family estate in Carrickfergus he was a
captain in the army, and recorder of that town.
Hugh was collector
of the port of Bangor, county of Down
John was a lawyer, and
In 1665, he was
having obtained a seat on the bench, was knighted.
one of the members in parliament for the borough of Killybegs.
was
a
Roger
very loyal man, and in the rebellion of 1641-2, exerted
himself against the rebels, who in revenge burnt the family mansion,
and every house upon his estate. ~ In 1644, he was mayor of Carrickfergus, and neglected to burn the Covenant, as ordered by the government, was afterwards brought to the bar of the House of Lords upon
his knees, and obliged to give security that he would see the Covenant
burnt.
He died in 1669. a His eldest son was intended for the bar;
he married early in life the daughter of a Dr. Messcarry, and getting
involved in debt, was many years in the king's bench prison. 4
In 1657, Sir John was chosen recorder of Carrickfergus, which
office he resigned in 1698, and his son Edward was elected in his room.
Edward was long one of the burgesses in parliament for Carrickfergus.
He died in 1727, leaving an only son named John. George, son of Sir
Sir John had
John, married Jane, daughter of Adam Molyneux.
also a son of the same name, who being a captain in the army, and
an active and loyal man, was attainted by King James's parliament, in
5
A daughter of Sir John's is said to have been married
May, 1689.
Some descendants of
to
Hall, Mount-hall, county of Down.
the Lyndons, and of that name, reside near Rathfriland.
John, son of Edward, in 1727, was one of the members in
parliament for Carrickfergus; he resided at Glasnevin near Dublin,
where he died, August 231!, 1741-2, and having no issue he bequeathed
his estates to his relation William Lyndon, great-grandson of Captain
6
Roger Lyndon.
Some persons of this family, perhaps sons of George, settled in
In October, 1762,
the counties of Waterford, Wexford, and Dublin.
England
On the death of Mrs. Hunt the Loughanmore estate devolved upon

Major-General Sir William Thompson Adair, K.C. B.
['"Jane Ellis, daughter of Henry (Clements) Ellis by Jane Cra g, was
married firstly to Duncan Wilson, and secondly to Christian William Nicolay.
;
She died
1
187.]
MSS. Records of Carrickfergus.

Commons' Journals.
Gill's
News
Belfast
Letter.
3
Lords' Journals.
Gill's
MS.
MSS.
Records
of
Carrickfergus.
Protestants.
6
Gill's
MSS.
Tradition.
Lodge's
Peerage.
State
of
the
ahcre died in Dublin, John

Lyndon, an officer of the customs.
In
January, 1765, we find John Lyndon, county Waterford, married to Miss
hfford, daughter of William Clifford, same countv
and in 1806,
John Lyndon, a descendant from Roger Lyndon, and heir at law to
the Lyndon estates, resided at Tomduff,
county of Wexford. l
William Lyndon died in London, June,
1803, leaving his estates
:in the
county and city of Dublin, and in the county of the town of
to
the entire disposal of his
Carrickfergus,
daughters Anna and
Helena, both unmarried, with reversion to his relation George Lyndon,
Soon
after
the
Misses
-attorney.
Lyndon gave George Lyndon a letter
of sale, who in 1807, sold the estate in
Carrickfergus to the Marquis
of Downshire,
for
^17,500.
May, 1819, George Lyndon again
advertised these lands for sale, entire or in lots, but no bidders
From
.attended.
.per
this
estate
Helena
annum.
George Lyndon died
receives
Lyndon
nearly
^Jiooo
in Dublin,
September, 1775.
" To the
Tablet in the north gallery of Bromley Church, Kent
memory of Mary Lyndon, youngest daughter of Richard Ashe, Esq., late of
Died 27th June, 1780. InAshfield, in the County of Meath, in Ireland.
terred in the churchyard.
Erected by her husband, William Lyndon."
" The remains of
Tablet in the north aisle, directly under the altar
William Lyndon, Esq., by whom the memory of his deceased wife was commemorated in the above inscription, now lie interred in the same spot. He
was born in Ireland in the year 1710, and died at Chelsea, Middlesex, roth
June, 1803, aged 93 years. Erected by his daughters, Anna and Helen
Lynden. Anna Lynden, died i6th January, 1816, aged 71 years. Helen
Lynden, died in Hollis Street, Cavendish Square, London, December, 1829,
Interred at Bromley."
,aged 84 years.
:
Some
Sir
account of the Clot-worthy -family.
Hugh Clotworthy was, probably,

who arrived from England early
one
.adventurers
in
whom
of
those military
the reign of James
he received the honor of kighthood. He had the charge

stationed at Massereene, to act upon Loughneagh
For this service he was allowed five shillings per
against the rebels.
day for himself, and ten pence per day, each, for eighteen men to be
I.
of
from
armed boats
employed in said boats." In 1618, for his good and faithful services
he had a pension of 6s 8d. per day; and in 1613, 1618, and 1622, he
was high sheriff of the countv of Antrim.
By his wife Mary, daughter
-of Sir Roger Langford, Muckamore, (who died at an advanced age in
and
the
latter settled at Moneyhe
had
two
sons, John
James
1661),
Sir Hugh died February i2th, 1630.*
.more, county of Derry.
Sir John Clotworthy succeeded his father as captain of the
squadron of boats stationed on Loughneagh, and was granted fifteen
and had under his command
shillings per day for his own services,
He was a zealous Presbyterian, and one of the most active
46 men.
and loyal men of the age in which he lived. In 1634, he presented a
:!
petition to the
of episcopacy
Irish
House
of
Commons, praying
for
the abolishing
and under his patronage the Rev. John Ridge, the

Rev. Henry Calvart, and the Rev. Andrew Ferguson, nonconformists,
b
He married Margaret, daughter of Roger first
were settled at Antrim.
Viscount Ranelagh, by whom he had one child Mary, married to Sir
;
Exshaw's Magazine.
-Lodge's
3
Belfast
News
Letter.
Peerage.
MS.
Lodge's Peerage.
Rawdon
Papers.
MS.
Jet-Black,
&c.
Lodge's Peerage.
4 84
In
John Skeffington, Bart, who succeeded to his estates and titles.
1640, Sir John Clotworthy was chosen one of the members in parliament
for the borough of Maiden, in Essex, and was afterwards one of the
1
bringing the Earl of Strafford to the scaffold, who

his family with great indignity.
January, 1638,
Strafford, writing to his patron Laud, Archbishop of Canterbury, says.
"
I have given direction that the Lady Clotworthy shall be convened
before the Court of High Commission, and ere it be long." 2 In 1640,
he was one of the commissioners sent by the English parliament to
Ireland, to receive the sword of state, and garrison of Dublin, from
and the following year he was, with ten other
the Duke of Ormond
members of the House of Commons, accused by the army of high
treason.
On this accusation he went to Holland, and on his return
was permitted to take his seat in parliament, and was one of those
who acknowledged that the concessions made by his Majesty in the
chief persons
in
had previously treated
Wight, were ample and satisfactory on which he was expelled

House by Cromwell, and imprisoned nearly three yeni!.
October, 1649, Sir George Munroe burned his town of Antrim, on:
been fired at from a mount." Antrim is then
pretence "that he had
" famous for
described as a place
godliness," which was countenanced*
by landlord and people.
During those times of confusion the annual stipend received by
Isle of
11
the
the Presbyterian ministers from the state had been unpaid for five
On the liberation of Sir John, in 165:4, he laid their case
years.
before General Fleetwood and the council in Ireland, and so effectually
pleaded their cause that they were not only ordered their former
maintenance, but also restored the tithes of their parishes, along with
4
On the Restoration, which he had been active
their other revenues.
in forwarding, he was admitted a member of his Majesty's privy
council, and on the i2th November, 1660, was created Baron of
Loughneagh, and Viscount Massereene, entailing the honors, in failure
of his issue male, on his son in law Sir John Skeffington, and his
male issue, by the said Mary.
By his interest in 1661, the Rev.
James Cunningham was permitted to preach at Antrim, when alf
Presbyterian ministers were banished the country, by order of the
June a8th, 1665, the town of Antrim was by his interest
bishop.
members to
incorporated a free borough, with liberty to send two
and he was granted leave to enclose 1000 acres of land'
parliament
into a park for deer.
;
his
titles
He died September, 1665. and was succeeded

5
and estates by Sir John Skeffington.
Dobbs family.
who came to Ireland, arrived
Henry Dockwra, to whom he was afterwards
Some account
John Dobbs, the
about
first
with Sir
1596,
in
of the
of this family
deputy, as treasurer for Ulster.
He
married Margaret, only child of
of Ballyhill, by whom he had two sons, Foulk and

latter succeeded to the family property, the elder Foulk,
See
from England.
being lost along with his father on their coming
notice of the Dalway family.
Hercules married Magdalene West, of Ballydougan, county of
son named Richard, who, on the deceaseDown
her he had an
John'Dalway,
Hercules. The
only
by
Lodge's Peerage.
2 Carte.
3
Cox.
Adair's
Straff ord's Letters.
Ludlow's Memoirs.
Lodge's
MS.
MS.
Peerage.
Adair's
MS.
which happened in 1634, was not three months old.

married in London Dorothy, daughter of
Williams, a gentleman of Yorkshire, by whom he had two sons, John,
Richard, and a daughter married to
In 1664, he
Jackson.
of
hi*
father,
Richard
in
served the
1655,
office of
high sheriff of the county of Antrim.
John was designed by his father for the church but being about
1683, taken by his mother to a Quaker meeting held in Carrickfergus,
Tic joined that sect, which so provoked his father, that at his death,
in 1701, he left him only
10 per annum, bequeathing his estate,
;
360 yearly, to his second son Richard. Some time

this event, John went to England and studied physic, and
to
Ireland, settled as a physician at Youghall, but afterwards
returning
removed to Mallow, where he died in 1739, aged 80 years." He
then valued at
Tjefore
married Phoebe Savary, and had offspring Arthur, who died aged 21
married to Jacob Atkins
Elizabeth,
Mary, married to Thomas
Taverner
Patience, married to Joshua Humphreys
Martha, married
to Richard Mountjoy, and Phoebe, who died unmarried. *
Richard, born 1660, married Mary, daughter of Archibald Stewart,
of Ballintoy
by her he had issue Arthur, Richard, Marmadukc, Jane,
and Elizabeth. Jane was married to Edward Brice, Kilroot, Elizabeth
died unmarried.
He resided at Castletown, parish of Ballynure. In
1688, he was one of those who signed the Antrim Association, for
which he was attainted by King James's parliament the following
On the
In 1694, he was high sheriff of the county Antrim. 4
year.
death of his first wife, he married Margaret, daughter of
Clugston, Belfast, and had issue Margaret, married July 7th, 1729,
to George Spaight
Mary, married to Andrew Boyd, Ballymoney
He was
and Ann-Helena, married to William Ker, Ballymena.
a small
He was author of
married a third time; and died in 1711.
"
"A Brief Description of the County of Antrim.''
tract entitled
;
"'
Arthur, who succeeded to the family estate, was born at Girvan,

in Scotland, April 2d, 1689, his mother in consequence of the wars
In 1720 he served the office of high
in Ireland being there a refugee.
He married Anne, daughter of
sheriff of the county of Antrim.
whom
Captain Osburne, Drogheda, and relict of Captain Norbury, by
he got an estate at Timahoe, and had offspring by her, ConwayRichard, Edward-Brice, and Francis, and a daughter who died in
He was for many years one of the

December 27th, 1757.
and was remarkable
representatives in parliament for Carrickfergus,
6
About
for probity in all his dealings, and for his general information.
Boulter to Sir Robert Walpole,
1730, he was recommended by Primate
and soon after was appointed engineer and surveyor-general of Ireland
and on his finishing the new house of parliament in 1741, he was
and attention displayed in
presented with .250, for his great care
About the same period he was also agent to Lord
that service. 7
by means
Conway, and made an ingenious attempt to drain Loughbeg,water
soon
of a wind-mill, to which buckets were attached, but the
8
of
several
He was author
after returned by a subterraneous channel.
Ireland
work? amongst' which were, An Essay on the Trade of
an Accot
the Probability of a North-West Passage to India; and
Belfast,
MS.
4
'
Rutty 's History of the Quakers.
MS.
MS.
MS.
State of the Protestants.
"
* First
M'Donnclls' of Antrim.
published in Hill's
MS. Records of Carrickfergus.
7
Commons' Journals.
Boulter's Letters.
*
An Account of Glenavy, in 1815.
4 86
Middleton's Voyage to Hudson's Bay.

By his advice in
two vessels sailed on discovery, to endeavour to explore a.
north-west passage to India, and during their voyage named a high
point of land on the north-west of Hudson's Bay, Cape Dobbs.
In January, 1753, he was appointed governor of North Carolina,
and on the meeting of the Assembly of that state in 1754, he made an
animated speech to rouse them to a proper sense of their danger, from*
the encroachments made by the French 1 He married a second time inNorth Carolina, but had no offspring by this marriage and died in hi*
government, at Castle-Dobbs, Cape Fear, near Brunswick, sincerely
His lands in that province amounted"
regretted throughout the state.
to near 30,000 acres, which, with his share in the Ohio company, were
of Captain
May, 1741,
lost to his
family.
Richard was several years an officer in the naval service, onquitting which he entered Trinity College, Dublin, and in about three
He is said to have afterwards settled at
years obtained a fellowship.
Lisburn as a physician. The writer has some doubts as to the accuracy
for this part of his information, having reason to suppose that Richard*
was rector of said parish. He has seen a sermon published in 1762,
" A Remarkable Account
by Richard Dobbs, D.D., Lisburn, entitled
He married"
of a Noted Scripture Prophecy;" text, Revelation vi. 2.
daughter of William Young, and widow of Cornet M'Manus.
From him descended the late Richard Dobbs, Dean of Connor, and"
Francis, barrister at law, who, July i~th, 1773 was married to Jane
Francis was author of several works, and was a
Stewart, Ballintoy.
distinguished and eloquent member in the Irish parliament for the
borough of Charlemont.
Conway-Richard was many years one of the representative
burgesses in parliament for Carrickfergus, and was remarkable for his
In 1752, he was
strict attention to the wishes of his constituents.
high sheriff of the county of Antrim. He married first Anne, daughter
of Alexander Stewart, Ballintoy and by her, who died i-ebruary igth,
1765, he had issue Richard Arthur, Alexander, Randal-Conway, Mary,
married to Dean Ryder, and Frances.
His second wife was Charity,,
daughter of Robert Burrows, county Kildare, and widow of Stephen
Rice, of Mount-Rice, same county, by whom he had Edward-Brice,
She died at Castle-Dobbs, November, 1788.
Robert, and Frances.
Edward-Brice was a captain in the army, and was twice mayor of
Robert
Carrickfergus he died at Castle-Dobbs, February 25th, 1803.
entered into holy orders, and in 1798, was married to Miss W. Bristow,
Belfast
he
died
of
William
vicar
of
the
Rev.
Bristow,
daughter
December gth, 1809, aged 38 years. Conway-Richard died in Belfast,
April nth, 1811, and was interred in Ballynure.
,
Belfast News-Letter, No. 1287.

Belfast News-Letter, No. 2914.
t* Richard Dobbs, D.D., was rector of Lisburn, where he died r
May 3rd, 1775, in his Both year. Mary, relict of the said Richard,
died April, 1796, aged 82 years.
Maria, their daughter, was married
she died December i2th, 1815,
to Samuel de la Cherois, Crommelin
1
MS.
aged 57" years. Lieutenant Dobbs, their son, was second in command
Paul Jones. (See
of the
Drake," and was wounded in action against
" Millennium
Dobbs,""
page 93.) Mr. Dobbs was known in his day as
and was one of those who strongly opposed the Union with Great
three
He
laid
down
Writ.
his
on
Britain, basing
Holy
arguments
main propositions first, the speedy advent of the Messiah second, the
and third, that Ireland issigns of His coming and the manner of it
to have the glorious pre-eminence of being the first kingdom to receive
Benn's History of Belfast,
Him. His arguments fell on deaf ears
;
Vol.
ii.,
p.
19.]
48 7
The
following are
some
additional notices
Conway Richard
(died 1811) was succeeded by his son, Richard

Dobbs,
fcsq., of Castle Dobbs; married Nichola, daughter of Richard
Obins, Esq
of Portadown, and had issue
Conway Richard and Archibald Edward
(married in India to Miss
Chapman).
Conway Richard Dobbs, Esq., J.P., D.L., High Sheriff, 1841, and M.P.
l8 3 2 married, first. Charlotte
Mary Sinclair, co-heiress of
.,r
William"c
Sinclair, of Fortwilliam, and had issue one son (M. W. E.
Dobbs)
.Z>
'
and seven daughters.

Olivia Nichola married Sir
James M'Cauley Higginson, and Harriet Sydney married George Duke of Manchester.
Conway
Richard Dobbs married secondly
(1875) Winifred Susanna Morris, and died
March, 1886. His son, Montague William Edward, born 1844,
J.P., D.L.,
High Sheriff County Antiim, died April, 1906, and was succeeded by his
cousin, Archibald Edward Dobbs, M.A., J.P.
Born at Calcutta ; married
Edith Mary, second daughter of the late Sir
James T. Chance, Bart., and has
issue three sons.
Olivia Nichola, Lady Higginson, died

October, 1906, leaving the residue
of her estate to her son,
Captain Conway Richard Dobbs Higginson, Ute of
Dunloskin.
Harriet Sydney, late Dowager-Duchess of Manchester, died
June, 1907,
having had children by both husbands. Her only daughter is Lady Kintore.
DETACHED
No.
"
PAPERS.
I.
Tyrcowiel having given out commissions for above

40,000 men, Cormick O'Neale, of the County Antrim, who, at that time,
had professed himself a Church Papist, was engaged by the Government, to raise a regiment on the confines of Down and Antrim, but the
Protestant gentlemen dissuading him from it, he,
seemingly, submitted
but, as soon as his Lieutenant-Colonel, Felix O'Neale, came into the
raised
their
on
both sides the Ban,
country, they privately
regiment
and immediately marched that part of them, which quartered on this
side the river, to garrison CARRICKFKRGUS; but such as lay on the
other side could not so easily be brought over, for fear of the
Protestants in Antrim; and Cormac O'Neale, for this purpose (about
the beginning of February), attempted, by a stratagem, to make himself
master of Tuam pass (Toome ferry), but his regiment was pursued by
a small detachment of dragoons, and, being totally defeated, the
Protestants built a small fort at the pass, and garrisoned it with 60
men thereby intercepting all correspondence with the Papists beyond
1688-89.
the
Ban."
Of Carrickfergus.
" The
garrison, now, by the accession
O'Neale 's new raised men,
of
Cormac
consisted of 19 companies, besides the

country that daily flocked to the town, as being the only Popish
asylum in those parts. The Protestants began to grow jealous of the
Colonel Edmonston (by
great numbers crowded in that garrison.
command of the council of the Protestants) seized a boat, laden with
provisions, at BroadiSfand, which was intended for my Lord Antrim's
The Earl
private family, and sent it across the bay, to Bangor.
threatened to burn the Colonel's house, but he had secured it with a
also
and Bangor being
threatened, Colonel
garrison of 100 men
Hamilton made the same provision against it. The Earl of Antrim, and
his officers, having proposed a parley, which was agreed to by the
General and his council, met at Belfast, when the Irish, remonstrating
on the unreasonableness of interrupting their provision, and finding the
the
great concourse of people to be the only reasons offered by
;
4 88
Protestants, in excuse for their usage, offered to divide their numbers,
their soldiers might garrison Belfast, or any other
indifferent place
but this proposal was rejected, unless the Earl would
suffer them to be disarmed, which he obstinately refused."
The General Council thinking this compliance of Antrim to hav?
proceeded from a distrust of his strength, resolved on a bold attempt
This design was chiefly
to make themselves masters of the garrison.
promoted by Hamilton, of Tullymore, and countenanced by the
and that some of

;
General.
Mr. Hamilton, of Bangor, was particularly concerned to
forward it and Sir William Franklyn engaged in it but it was opposed
by Sir R. Colvill, Mr. Upton, and most of the country, thinking it
would expose their weakness, and hasten Tyrconnel's forces down on
them.
Having resolved to attack Carrickfcrgus, they resorted to a
Mr. Davis, an inhabitant of the town, whose hospitality
stratagem.
and good humour had rendered him much esteemed by the Popish
officers, was to make them drunk, and make them incapable of their
Circular letters were now despatched from Belfast, to summon
duty.
the country regiments to meet next morning, near Carrickfergus
who,
notwithstanding the short warning, great distance, and winter season,
appeared at the place, to the number of 3,000, having undergone the
The men would
fatigue of a rainy night's march, in very bad way.
now have fallen on the town and, from the effect of H. Davis's
liquor, on the commanders, it is generally believed it might have been
taken, by killing only the sentinels but our General and Council began
fresh consultations, and gave the enemy time to sleep themselves sober,
and to call a council of war, who resolved on a parley with the
besiegers.
Accordingly, Colonel Talbot was sent from the town, to
manage the conference but it plainly appeared their object was only
to discover our strength, and to gain time to prepare for defence
for,
having manned the walls, and lined some hedges without the town,
they took no further notice of the parley, but sallied on the suburbs,
Upon this
killing, plundering, and firing all that lay before them.
violation of the truce, it was purposed that Colonel Talbot should be
secured but he was dismissed with a safe convoy into the town. Our
General and Council now resolved on a general attack though, they
had neither cannon to batter, nor ladders to scale, nor any other
Accordingly, the army divided into
provision, for such an attempt.
several battalions, for a general assault
who, upon the first word of
of
the enemy's cannon, marched up to the very
command, in defiance
walls of the town, which they could have undoubtedly taken, if pikes
and scythes could have prevailed; but, having spent their ammunition,
and experienced the impossibility of the attempt, they were, at last,
but their
obliged to retreat, which they performed with no great loss
preservation was rather due to Providence, and the indiscretion of their
enemies, than to the care or conduct of their General or Council, who,
after they had given orders for the attack, left their soldiers exposed
to the cannon, and retired under the shelter of a barley-field and pigeonhouse, hoping, thereby, to secure themselves from the noise and danger
The news of this retreat having caused a fear at
of the enemy's shot.
headquarters, the General and his Council concluded upon a parley
and, being resolved it should end in peace, the soldiers wer^ commanded to their former quarters. In this conjuncture, it was thought
the town might have proposed their own terms: but Colonel Talbot.
being willing to return the civilities lately received, onlv insisted noon
the same proposals that had been formerly made by the Earl of
Antrim, and desired that a cessation might be punctually observed, on
both sides, till such time as fresh supplies should be sent from Dublin.
The General and his Council facing their ill success with their pretended advantages, they boasted to have gained upon the parley,
The evil consereturned, as it were in triumph, to Hillsborotigh.
quence that followed this defeat, at Carrickfergtis, so far encouraged
;
489
the Irish, that they immediately ventured upon public acts of hostility
plundering the Protestant houses at noon-day, and massacreing such
as they thought would have opposed their villanies and the Protestant
soldiers, so far discouraged by their ill success, for ever after entertained so mean an opinion of their General and Council, that, for the
future, they never yielded an exact obedience to their commander."
This Genera! was Hughj second Earl of Mount-Alexander. .4 Faithful
;
History of the Northern Affairs.

Upon this defeat, at Carrickfergus, there arrived a packet of
declarations, directed to the General and Council, at Hillsborough,
requiring all the Irish to lay down their arms, by the loth of April
and, at the same time, King William and Queen Mary were proclaimed.
Tyrconnel now began to prepare for an expedition to the North, sent
part of the provisions, for his army, to Carrickfergus by sea. One of
his ships, laden with biscuit, was driven into Dundrum, and seized by
"
Some Reflections
the Protestant garrison. Ibid. In a tract, entitled,
on the Faithful History." the articles of cessation are given at large,
Antrim,
signed, Henry Davis, Richard Johnson, Clotworthy Upton
Cormac O'Nenle, Marke Talbot the last was a natural son of the
Duke of Tyrconnel. When the town was besieged, by Duke Schomberg's army, the garrison consisted of the regiment of Mac Carty
More, and 9 companies of Colonel Cormac O'Neale's regiment. This
Tract was printed by Alderman James Malone Dublin, 1689.
;
A
the
correct
following
ment
list
of the Candidates, and number
contested
Elections,
Upton,
Mariott Dalway,
Hon. Arthur Barry,*
Dalway,
1784,
Ezekiel D. Wilson,
523
James Craig.
363
1802, Lord Spencer S. Chichester,
381
Ezekiel D. Wilson,
270
359
1807, James Craig,
Edward May, jun.
318
363
1807, James Craig,
Edward May, jun.
321
Arthur
Chichester,
460
1812.
Ezekiel D. Wilson.
406
A.
Lord
311
Hill.H
George
1830,
Lord Marcus Hill,
241
Charles Adair.
198
46
495
1832, Conway R. Dobbs.H
Sir Arthur Chichester, 447
333
Waddel Cunningham,
Hon. Joseph Hewit,
1785, Ezekiel
D. Wilson, t
Waddel Cunningham,
D. Wilson,
Alexander Hamilton,
468
329
464
79
401
365
1790, Ezekiel
Brice.J
617
368
Francis Dobbs,
55
Edward
Chi-
192
Edward Smyth,
Conway R. Dobbs,
Barry Yelverton,
Mariott Dalway,
S.
170
Hon. John Chichester, 392

Mariott
Lord Spencer
441
341
Conway R. Dobbs,
1776,
of votes for each, at

serve in Parlia-
Burgesses to
1761, Arthur
1768,
for
chester,
James
Wills,
61
this period, it was usual for the Candidates to issue tickets

issued
for certain sums, to be paid on demand, to the freemen. Those
on this occasion, by the Hon. Arthur, were for one guinea; those of
Mr. Upton, for 55. ; and those of Mr. Dalway, for 5*.
*At
tAt
this
election,
an objection
was taken against the votes of

had been
because
they
Henry Joy and George Black, Burgesses;
in the open Court,
.admitted Burgesses in the Market-house, and not
" as had been the ancient usage." At the same election, an objection
James Gordon, a freeman, because that

a Papist."
+
Of 54 freemen who presented a memorial to Mr. Bnce, to stana
him with H
forward as a candidate, and that they would support
votes and interest, 10 polled against him
was taken against

"
he was married
the vote of
to
490
l8 33
June 4th, Mr. O'Connell brought in a Bill for the disfranchiseread, and ordered to be read a second
ment of the Borough, which was then

time on the 3d of July.
On
7th of June, a meeting of the electors of the Borough was held

for the purpose of preparing a Petition to the House
of Commons, against its disfranchisement.
petition was here read which
had been forwarded from London, by John Wallace, solicitor, in order to be
and
which had been already signed by sixteen electors. Afier some
signed,
confusion, this Petition was rejected and torn, because it acknowledged the
of
the Freemen, and prayed that the rights of all other classes of
corruption
Electors should be preserved.
It was afterwards purposed, that a Petition in
in the
the
Market-House,
This election was remarkable for corruption during which, three

persons died from an immoderate use of ardent spirits.
On the evening of the first day of this election, Sir Arthur
declined the contest, and his friends set up Mr. Adair
and, on the
following day, Lord Marcus Hill was put forward as a candidate, by
the friends of Lord George Hill.
On the latter being returned, a
petition was preferred against him, on the. grounds of bribery and corruption, and also, that he was "not a burgess of this Corporation."
From an informality in the preamble to this petition, it was thrown out
by the Committee appointed to try its merits.
If On the fifth day of this election, Sir Arthur Chichester did not
appear in Court, and very few of his friends polled it was, however,
known on the previous day, that, in the course of this evening, a new
candidate would appear, on the same interest as Sir Arthur.
A
little before the hour of finally closing the Court, and after proclamation had been made to that effect, Sir Stephen May proposed himself as
a Candidate, on which James Wills, Esq., was proposed and seconded
by the opposite party, and six persons polled for him, on which ihe
usual hour having elapsed for closing the Court, it was finally closed.
A petition was presented against the return of Mr. Dobbs. This
petition was signed by Edward Chichester, Samuel Arrot, Robert
Gamble, Charles Seeds, and William Walker the four first belonging
After an investigation of several
to Belfast, the latter to Carrickfergus.
days, before a Committee, of which Daniel O'Connell, was Chairman,
Mr. Dobbs resigned, and the election was declared null and void.
;
II
Fifty-three persons were summoned to London upon this occasion, most

It is believed, that the total expense of this
of whom were volunteers.
suit, and the previous election, could not have cost the parties less than
;lO,000.
From the testimony of several witnesses examined, it appeared that

an almost general system of bribery had been practised during the late
election, and that the prices given for votes varied from five"~to twenty
pounds; and that alLthe public houses in the place were kepj open for
One witness acthe friends of either one candidate or an other.
knowledged his having received between 13 and ^1400, for electioneering
purposes,
500 of which was furnished by a Club in Dublin, called
An agent for Sir Arthur Chichester stated,
the Conservative Society.
and that he had, formerly,
that he "had bribed several hundreds,
offered ^700 for a batch of about 40 votes, which sum was however
1 '
refused.
The Committee of the House, in their Report, recommended, that

no writ for a new election should be issued by the Speaker for one
month and that, in the mean time, measures might be taken either to
alter the constituency of the Borough, or towards its total disfran;
chisemenl.
At present. May, 1833, the number of electors stand as follows

Freemen, 918; freeholders, 23; leaseholders, 5; house and landholders,
:
106
rent chargers,
Total, 1062.
support of the claims of all the Electors should be forwarded to Parliament,

signed by those who had neither received, nor been promised money at the
late election
this being agreed to, the
petition was numerously signed !
About the same time, a Petition from the Mayor, Sherifts, Aldermen,
and Burgesses, was presented to the House by Lord Belfast,
praying that the
Borough might not be disfranchised. In the mean time a select Committee
" to
of 15 members of the House was appointed to meet on the
3d of July,
make further inquiry into the proceedings of the last and former Elections for
the Borough of Carrickfergus, and into the state of the
Population, and
other circumstances of the said Borough ; with a view to the propriety of its
being represented in Parliament." One of this Committee was Daniel
O'Connell, Esq., who had been Chairman of the former Committee, and was
now put forward to reverse his former decision !
On this Committee being assembled, Mr. Lafroy, one of the members,
purposed, that the Freemen should be disfranchised, and all the other classe
of the Electors preserved.
This proposal was objected to by Mr. O'Connell
and the major part of the Commiitee, who proceeded to examine evidence.
After fifteen witnesses had been examined, all of whom agreed that there was
a constituency of about 500 Electors besides the Freemen, who had neither
received nor been promised bribes
yet the Committee decided, that the
said county of the town of Carrickfergus, " should be added to the county of
Antrim, so as to enable Freeholders and Leaseholders, with a beneficial
JO a year, or upwards, to vote at the future elections of the
interest of
members for the said county of Antrim." However, on the iyth of same
month, Peter Kirk, Esq., in his Petition to the House, prayed to be heard by
The second
council at the bar against this decision, which was granted.
reading of the bill for the disfranchisement, had been previously adjourned
to the 23d, and afterwards to the agth of July, when Mr. O'Connell n-.oved,
that the second reading should be postponed for three months, and the
issuing of the writ of electicn suspended for fourteen days after the meeting
of next session of Parliament, which was agreed to.
In the interim, on the i8th of January, an Assembly of the Corporation
was held, who voted ^400 to be paid out of the rents of the Corporation, to
defend the Franchises of the Borough ; and at their meeting of the 8th of
February, they appointed Messrs. Joseph Macartney and David Legg, solici:
On the 22d of same

proceed to London on their behalf.
month, a meeting of the Freemen was held, in order to take into consideration some measures against their disfranchisement, when a petition that had
been prepared to be forwarded to the House of Commons, was signed by about
in this
forty persons ; no greater number appearing to interest themselves
tors, their agents, to
affair.
On the meeting of Parliament, Mr. O'Connell gave notice, that he would

and on the
bring in a bill for the proposed disfranchisement of the Borough ;
ilth February, 1834, leave was given by him to that effect ; which bill was
read a first time, and ordered to be read a second time on the 5th of March.
a petition
February 25th, James E. Tennant, Esq., presented to the House,
from Carrickfergus against the disfranchisement of the Borough, and praying
He also gave notice, that on
to be heard by council at the bar of the House.
the 27th, he would move that the Corporation of Carrickfergus be heard as
above ; and that the Freemen be disqualified to vote at elections for
members of Parliament. On the 22d of March, Mr. Tennant obtained leave
former
for a Committee to meet on the I5th of April, for the examination of
deem it necessary.
evidence, and to call upon other evidence, if they should
The appointment of this Committee was afterwards adjourned to the 9th of
it was, on the motion of
May, and again until the gth of June, on which day
Mr. O'Connell, postponed to the 5th day of the meeting of the nextsession
to the
of Parliament and afterwards on the motion of Lord Althorp, put oft
;
28th of February, 1835.

In the meantime, the ministry being suddenly dismissed, the Parhamei
new
was rather unexpectedly dissolved on the 29th of December ; the
492
Parliament to assemble on the igth of February, 1835. On the 3d of-January,
the writ for holding an election for a Burgess to serve in Parliament, was
received ; and the loth was appointed for the day of election, wherrl'eter
Kirk, Esq., was chosen without opposition.
[Carrickfergus was disfranchised January, 1884.]
ALDERMEN AND BURGESSES OF CARRICKFERGUS,
IN
1748.
ALDERMEN.
Earl of Donegall,
Francis Clements,
\VilIoughby Chaplin,
George Spaight,
Valentine Jones,
Henry, son of Francis
Arthur Chichcster,
Francis Price,
Arthur Dobbs,
Rigby Dobbin,
Henry
Gill,
Con way R. Dobbs,

Francis Lord Con way,
Hon. Henry Conway,
Edward Brice,
Ellis,
Waterhouse Crymble,
Henry, son of Hercules
Ellis.
BURGESSES.
Nathaniel Byrt,
Edward Morrison,
Hon. Arthur Hill,
Hercules Davys,
William Magee,
Hill Wilson,
Charles Macartney,
Margretson Saunders,
Arthur Byrt,
William Lyndon,
Richard Chaplin,
Hercules Clements,
Henry Burleigh,
<jeorge Fortes,
Edward Jones,
Samuel Close,
Edward Dobbs,
Robert Maxwell,
William Macartney,
Arthur Barry,
Lord Hillsborough.
William Brow n,
Davys Wilson,
7
Ezekiel Wilson,
ALDERMEN AND BURGESSES,
IN
1833.
ALDERMEN.
Marquis of Donegall,
Arthur Chichester,
Lord Blaney,
~*Sir
^Thomas
Thomas
B. Adair,
L. Stewart,
...Orrncau,
...Belfast,
...Castlcblaney,
...Loughanmorc,
...Belfast,
September 17, 1792.

September n, iSoi.
August
30, 1802.
August
30, 1802.
1811.
i,
February
~*George Bristow,
'Thomas Vcrner,
...Belfast,
April
22,
1811.
...
22,
*Rev. Samuel Smyth,

Lord Belfast,
...Carnmoncy,
4,
1814.
1820.
4,
1820.
"*Sir
...Belfast,
...Florida,
September
January
January
September
September
29,
1821.
26,
1822
April
19,
1824.
April
19,
1824.
September
September
August
August
26,
1825.
26,
1825.
27,
1831.
27,
1831.
Stephen May,
*David Gordon, elect,
...London,
M. Skinner,
...Belfast,
~*Rev. Lord Edward Chichester, Dublin,
Rev. John Dobbs,
...Carrickfergus,
"*Cortland
"*Joseph Macartney,
...Belfast,
Peter Kirk,
~*Hcnry Adair,
...Carrickfergus,
...Loughanmorc,
493
BURGESSES.
...Lisburn,
494
"WILLOUGHBY CHAPLAIN,
MAYOR.
SHERIFFS.
RICHARD CHAPLIN,
EZEKIEL WILSON.
GRAND JURORS.
Henry Burleigh,
David Legg,
Randal Wilson,
William M'llnea,
Andrew Reynolds,
Edward Dawson,
William Jones,
Alexander M'Dowell,
William Wilkison,
Francis Blakney,
John Morrison,
James Hamill,
James Cobham,
John Blair,
James Taylor,
James Magill,
Hugh
Lappin.
"January
list,
1754."
At a General Assembly of the several Incorporated Societies of ihe

of Carrickfergus, held in the Tholsel of the said Town, on
Monday, the 2ist January, 1754, it was unanimously agreed, that an
address of thanks be drawn up, and sent to ARTHUR UPTON, Esq., one
of the Representatives in Parliament, for said Town, and the same was
drawn and agreed to, as follows
Town
"To ARTHUR UPTON,
ESQ., M.P.
4<
SIR,
We, the Masters and Wardens, of the Incorporated Societies
of the ancient and loyal Corporation of Carrickfergus, in Common Hall
assembled, beg leave to express our grateful acknowledgments, and
the high sense we have, of your behaviour in parliament.
"
To find a Representative ever watchful over, and studiously
careful of the liberties and privileges of the People, whom no undue
influence can move, no menace awe, nor ambitious views seduce, must
always give the highest satisfaction and certain security, to his constituents in particular, as well as to the Kingdom in general
and, we
congratulate ourselves upon our judicious choice of you, Sir, endowed
with all the qualifications necessary to form and complete the honest
:
and unbiassed Irishman.

" While his
Majesty's mild Government (which God long preserve)
and your known
we always shall esteem ourselves secure
lasts,
attachments to his sacred person, and the best of Constitutions, render
us easy and happy, and only leave us, thus, to express our obligations
to you, Sir, and our ardent prayers that you may long live an honour
for
to your country, and the pride and safety of your constituents
whom we subscribe ourselves, Sir, your assured friends and humble
Patriot,
servants.
"
CORPORATION OF WEAVERS.
Hugh Murphy and James
James M'llwean, Master
Catters,
Wardens.
CORPORATION OF TAYLORS.
John Hood, Master
John Ravenhill and John
Price,
Wardens.
CORPORATION OF BUTCHERS.
Francis Bleackley, Master
Alexander Veacock and John Miller,
Wardens.
CORPORATION OF CORDWAINERS.
Edward Dawson, Master
John Davison and Andrew M'Dowell,

Wardens.
CORPORATION OF HAMMERMEN.
William Thompson and William Pickin,
Wardens.
That Mr. James M'llwcan do transmit this Address
William Douglass, Master
"
to Mr.
Ordered,
UPTON.
By Order,
" CHARLES
MAKEPEACE,
Clcrl;."
495
"
COURT-HOUSE, CARRICKFF.RGUS, Nov. 4, 1779.

At an Assembly of the
Mayor, Recorder, Sheriffs, Aldermen Burgesses and freemen of the County of the Town
of Carrickfergus.
the following Address and Instructions -were
unanimously agreed
on
"
To
CONWAY RICHD. DOBBS
AND
BARRY YELVERTOX,
ESQRS.
"
Representatives in Parliament for the County of the
Town
of Carrick-
fergus.
GENTLEMEN, Perfectly convinced of your integrity, and
entirely approving of your conduct, we have hitherto found* it unnecessary 10
advise or instruct you; but, when the time is
which
from its
come,
importance, calls into action the mind of every member ot the community, we should be much wanting to ourselves, and without excuse to
posterity, did we not record in our annals, and, as such,
publicly
declare to you the sentiments of free
minds, loaded with unmerited and
"
unremitting
oppressions.
"
The restraints, long since, unconstitutionally
imposed upon our
national industry and commerce,
by a sister nation, and still continued,
to
the
interest
of
the
contrary
general
empire at large, after having, in
their consequences, enabled France to rival Great Britain in the
Woollen
Trade, have their final effect in reducing this country to that deplorable
state of poverty, which has been
the
lately acknowledged by
Crown, in
the person of our present
worthy Chief Governor, unanimously proclaimed to the Throne by both Houses of Parliament,
severely felt in
the person of every individual, and as
severely in the person of an
all-gracious King, by the mortifying, but unadvoidable necessity he was
lately under, of resorting to the coffers of another state for that very
money which his Irish Parliament assured him of finding in the Irish
Revenue.
"
We are, therefore, confident, that if a FREE TRADE, the only expedient left to avert the impending ruin of the country, depended upon
the goodness and wisdom of the King, and Parliament of Ireland, that
event would immediately take place.
But, however unconstitutionally
the present restraints upon our trade were originally imposed, and however well-inclined his Majesty is to abolish them, as repugnant to
justice and good policy, we fear he cannot effect these wise purposes
without the consent of the British Parliament, a body, to whose powers
we are no strangers, but with whose justice we are totally unacquainted;
and we likewise fear, that the consent of the British Parliament
depends upon the humour of the British Minister, a character yet
unknown in the confidence or gratitude of this country.
" These
circumstances, Gentlemen, are, in our opinion, productive
of mischiefs, which can only be guarded against and prevented by the
The sense of the British Senate
suspicion and firmness of Parliament.
upon the present important object, cannot be known until after the
usual time of granting the supplies in this Kingdom shall have elapsed
and the supplies once granted, an untimely prorogation, or the offer of
an admissible system of redress may for ever defeat the present most
;
towards this Kingdom.

of his
gracious
" In purposetherefore,Majesty
that an end may not be put to the present
order,
of this unhappy country be finally
the
fate
until
Session of Parliament,
decided upon, we expect, and do, for the first time insist, that you will not
suffer any new tax, whatsoever, to take place, even for an hour, nor consent
to the continuation of the present taxes, for any time longer than si.v months ;
to the end, that if, by the expiration of that period, the present restraints on
our trade be not removed, you will then, as of necessity you must, regulate
the expense of this forlorn state, through no other medium than the ability of
in order, if for no other purpose than the honour of the nation,
the People
;
496
the only thing she has left to boast of, may not be a second time degraded,
and the King a second time insulted, by grants from his Irish Commons, of
money, which, when wanted, he may find himself obliged to raise upon his
own private credit with the British Treasury. In testimony whereof, we
have hereunto affixed our Seal of office of Mayoralty, the day and year above
written.
Signed by Order,
"DANIEL KIRK, Town
Cletk.'*
"TO THE
MAYOR, SHERIFFS, ALDERMEN, BURGESSES, AND FREEMEN,

"Of
"
the County of the
Town
of Carrickfergus.
WE return
you our warmest thanks for the approbation you are pleased toexpress of our past conduct in Parliament ; and, as your sentiments so
perfectly coincide with our own, we trust that the spirit of just indignation
with which your ancient and loyal Corporation is animated, will not be dishonoured by our future exertions.
" We are
deeply sensible of the impoverished state to which this Kingdom is reduced, by restraints upon its commerce, with as little regard to the
Constitution of Ireland, as to the general interests of the empire.
"
feel, as Irishmen, the mortifying necessity which his Majesty wasunder, of resorting to his private credit with the Treasury of another State,
for that support which he would have found in Irish Revenue, had the justice
of Great Britain been equal to the generosity of this country ; and, you may
believe, we shall be anxious to prevent a repetition of the insult.
"
are convinced that we have no other pledge remaining, wherewiih
we can negotiate for the restitution of our natural, as well as constitutional
rights, except the money of the people, of which the Representatives are only
the trustees.
'
You may, therefore, rest assured, that we shall pay the strictest
attention to the measures which you so properly recommend to us, to the end,
that when the time of six months shall
e expired, we may either add to the
grants, if our abilities shall be enlarged, or if that illiberal policy to which the
prosperity of millions of the faithful subjects of this country have been
hitherto sacrificed, shall be any longer continued, we may retrench establishments too burthensome to be endured, and, in every department of the State r
reduce our expenses t the measure of our means.
"
have the honour to be, Gentlemen,
" Your most faithful and obedient
servants,
We
We
We
"CONWAY RICHARD
"
1779.
DOKBS,.
BARRY YELVERTON."
This day, November 5th, Barry Yelverton, Esq., Recorder of the
County of the Town of Carrickfergus, waited upon Walter Burgh, Esq., with
the freedom of that Corporation in a gold box
and, at the same time,
presented him the following Address
;
" His
"To THE RIGHT HON. WALTER BURGH,
ESQ.,
Majesty's late Prime Sergeant at Law, and one of the Representativesin Parliament lor the University of Dublin.
"
SIR,
Considering ourselves, from the idea of aggregate representation, in
the number of your constituents, and living in an age when the ruling passion
of almost every gentleman is either avarice or ambition, we cannot too much
admire, or too highly applaud, the manly sacrifice you have made of rank and
emoluments, to the service of your country.
"This singular instance of exalted patriotism, while it gains you the
heart of every constituent, is rendered still more meritorious, by the example
497
which
holds out to every Representative, that there are times and occasions
when private considerations, however plausible or alluring, should
yield to
public duty ; and, by the proof which it affords, that corruption alone first
introduced, and still continues the distinction between the truly faithful
servant of the Crown, and the inflexibly honest
representation of the People.
"
have taken, Sir, the earliest opportunity of giving to
your merit the
highest testimony of our gratitude and approbation, by placing you with our
own worthy and upright Representation, among the free electors of one of the
m^st ancient, loyal, and Independent Corporations in the
kingdom of
Ireland."
it
We
"
TO THIS ADDRESS MR. BURGH RETURNED THE FOLLOWING ANSWER.

GENTLEMEN, I am happy, beyond expression, to find my public conduct
warmlv approved of by a
so
society of men, that has, at every important

been so eminently distinguished for the soundest
and patriotism.
principles,
" I receive with
pride and gratitude, the honour that you are pleased to
confer upon me, by placing me with your own representatives (worthy and
upright ones indeed) among the free electors of your most ancient, loyal, and
Independent Corporation."
of our
period
history,
and noblest
efforts of loyalty
"COUNTY OF THE TOWN OF CARRICKFERGUS.

" In
consequence of a requisition to us, signed by the Mayor, Aldermen,
Burgesses, and a number of respectible Freeholders and Freemen of this
for calling a meeting of the same, to take into consideration the
propriety of acceding to the Resolutions entered into at Dungannon, on the
8ih day of September last, relative to a more equal representation of the
People in Parliament and, also, of sending instructions to our Representatives on the same subject, a meeting of the County was, this day, held at
the Courthouse, when the following resolutions were entered into
County,
"
That we most heartily approve of, and

accede to, the Resolutions entered into at Dungannon, on the 8th day of
September la^t, and adopt them as our own ; and solemnly pledge ourselves
to each other and our country, to give every constitutional aid and support in
bur power, to have the same carried into speedy effect.
" 2. Resolved
unanimously, That as the first necessary step towards the
same, we do, by the hands of our Sheriffs, send the following instructions to
Resolved unanimously,
i.
our Representatives in Parliament
"TO THE
RIGHT HON. BARRY YELVERTON AND CONWAY RICHARD

"
'
WE.
to,
and
DOBBS, ESQS.
of the
Rep-esentatives in Parliament for the County
Town
of
Carrickfergus.
of oui having, this day, acceded
your Constituents, in consequence
into at Dungannon, on
adopted as our own, the Resolutions entered
the 8th day of September last, wi'h full confidence in your tried integrity, do
aid and support in your power,
hereby instruct and request you, to give every
to the
in Parliament, to have the same carried into speedy effect, agreeable
welfare of the People.
That the above be published in the Dublin
"3. Resolved unanimously,
the answers of our
Evening Post, and the Belfast Newspapers ; and, also,
Representatives
when
received.
" THOMAS KIRK,

\ rj,,,.-ff.
" ROBERT CLEMENTS, f J
"
That the thanks of this meeting be given
4. Resolved unanimously,
with our
to our Sheriffs, for their readiness and punctuality in complying
in the chair, to-day.
requisition, and their very proper conduct
"JOHN MOORE.
"
Carrickfergus, Nov.
33
3,
1783."
" TO THE
MAYOR, ALDERMEN, BURGESSES, FREEMEN, AND FREE-
HOLDERS
" Of the
County of the Town of Carrickfergus.
"GENTLEMEN, I have received your instructions, and assure you it will
give me a particular pleasure, if, upon the discussion of the important
question which you recommend to my attention, I shall be able to reconcile
your wishes to the general interests of the kingdom.
" I have the
honour, to be,
" Your most faithful andGentlemen,
obedient humble servant,
'
"JVov.
8,
BARRY YELVERTON.
1783."
"TO THE
MAYOR, ALDERMEN, BURGESSES, FREEMEN, AND FREE" Of
HOLDERS
County of the Town of Carrickfergus.

"
GENTLEMEN, I have received your instructions, and shall always be
happy to communicate with you on any subject of importance which may
the
occur in the discharge of
my duty in Parliament.
brg leave to assure you, that I shall most willingly support any plan
of Parliamentary Reform, submitted to the House of Commons, which may
appear to be such as will answer the great object you have in view, the
"
preservation of our excellent Constitution in

" I have the honour to
be, Gentlemen,
" Your most obedient and
"
Dublin, Nov.
8,
its
faithful
native vigour
humble
and
purity.
servant,
" CON WAY RICHARD DOBBS.
1783."
"
WE, the Grand Jury of the County of the Town of Carrickfergus, convened
at Summer Assizes, 1784, have agreed to the following Resolutions
:
"
That when questions of such political magnitude and

Resolved,
importance as a Reform of Parliamentary Representation, and the right of
suffrage, are publicly agitated, it becomes the duty of good subjects, after
due deliberation, to make their sentiments publicly known.
"Resolved, That the inequality of the present state of Representation
in Ireland, makes a Reform thereof necessary and desirable.
"
Resolved, That the remedy of an evil which time and habit have in
some measure made congenial to the Constitution, should be digested with
wisdom, conducted with prudence, and adopted with caution and temper.
"
Resolved, That a permanent, safe, and effectual remedy can only be
obtained through the channel pointed out by the Constitution for redress of
grievances ; and, that we have entire confidence in the wisdom of our most
gracious Sovereign, and of our Parliament, to form an adequate provision for
[ This resolution agreed to : six dissentients
effecting this salutary measure.
to the latter part of tf.]
"
Resolved, That we consider all attempts to accomplish this object by
means of congresses or assemblies, not recognized bv the laws, as unconstitutional and dangerous, and as having a necessary tendency to retard and
defeat the purposes for which they are designed.
\This resolution agreed to :
seven dissentients.}
"
That as every constitutional means should be used to proResolved,
mote a measure of such public utility, so we must disapprove of the tumults
and outrages which have lately prevailed in the capital, as tending to obstruct
and frustrate a measure, practicable only by peaceableness and moderation.
"Resolved, That while we feel the warmest sentiments of regard and
cordiality for our fellow-subjects of the Roman Catholic persuasion, and
heartily approve of their dutiful and peaceable demeanour, we must, at the
499
same
time, declare our decided opinion, that the extension of the

richt of
suffrage to them, at present would be attended with
many evil consequences
the end, be subversive of that
and,
liberty which it proposes to diffuse
I Ik is resolution agreed to : only one
dissentient.]
"
Resolved. That our thanks be returned to the

Sheriffs, Robert
Clements and Thomas Kirk, Esqrs., for the
propriety of their conduct, in the
answer they gave to the aggregate
at
Dublin.
meeting
" Resolved
That these resolutions be printed in The Belfast NewsLetter and The Dublin
Evening Post.
"
CONWAY RICHARD DOBBS, Foreman
"'John Moore,
John Kirk,
William Kirk,
Stephen Rice,
Francis Shaw,
Edward Craig,
Charles Crymble,
Thomas Legg,
Henry Bryan,
Robert Morrison,
David Kirk,
William Clements,
John Frazer,
Robert M'Gown,
Daniel M'Kay,
Robert Catherwood,
John Bowman."
On His Majesty's visit to Ireland, in August, 1821, the following Address

from Carrickfergus was presented to His Majesty
:
"TO THE
KING'S
MOST EXCELLENT MAJESTY (GEORGE
IV.)
your Majesty's most dutiful and loyal subjects, the Mayor, Sheriffs, and
Recorder, Aldermen, Burgesses, Freemen, and other Inhabitants of the Town
and Corporation of Carrickfergus, and its vicinity, humbly app:oach the
throne, to offer our sincere expressions of joy and gratitude on your Majesty's
gracious visit to this part of your Majesty's dominions.
" At a time when all ranks of
your Majesty's Irish subjects emulate each
"
WE,
other, in showing their unshaken loyally, we humbly entreat your Majesty to

believe, that we give place to none, in our devotion and unalterable attachment to your Royal person.
"
Highly sensible of the many invaluable blessings we enjoy under your
Majesty's mild and equitable government, and grateful for former Royal
favours, it is our fevent wish and prayer, that your Majesty may long continue to reign upon the throne of this kingdom, and in the hearts of a loyal,
faithful,
and united People."
5co
APPENDIX,
1909.
AN APPRECIATION.
To THE MEMORY OF SAMUEL M'SKIMIX, AUTHOR or
THE HISTORY OF CARRICKFERGUS.
BY
THE
AUTHOR
(Copied from the Belfast
OF
"
RATHLIN.
News -Letter, August
To ask a tribute of a passing sigh,

And tell the reader he was horn to
"
15, 1843.)
die,
His worth to publish, and his name to save,

No column rises at his humble grav
Yet truth avers it (and afiecti<>n can),
He \vas an honest, and an upright man ;
;
And
monument but not of tone,

monument the work his own.
hath a
living
In spite of party and of partial men,

lent her guidance to his lips and pen
Truth
The pride of principle was all his pride

To stand unblemished, and be true when
patriot
And
tried,
warm, without the patriot's boast,

who knew him longest, loved him most
those
No
canting hypocrite, with secret crimes,

And durst be honest, in the worst of times.
No
false pretentions
and no
idle praise,
Allured the worthless to his will and ways

Consistent action and a noble aim,
Gave
reputation, that he well might claim.

and wished the poor to live,
Gave all his station could afford to give ;
Nor oft inquired, if to saint, or sot.
To make them happy, was the mite they got ;
\Vith mean apology, or scruple nice,
Chilled not the needy on the plea of vice,
Poor had he been
Nor let the drinking of a dram be made

A mar when misery implored his aid
;
Vet he was temperate, and wise as those

Who spurn the wretched and deride their woes.
Stern might he seem yet ne'er to merit cold,
No fee he courted, and no friendship sold.
I
knew
his friendship (and
my
heart
it
cheered),
His virtues valued, and his thoughts revered,

Whose mind was manly, and expression just,
Who
never listened to betray a trust

example, as through life he passed.
And with integrity he lived his last
What more has man in this cold world to try
But live like him, and learn like him to die.
fair
HIGH SHERIFFS OF CARRICKFERGUS AND THEIR

DEPUTIES FROM 1839 TILL 1899.
DEPUTIES.
1839
1840
1841
1842
'
George Forsythc.
John Legg.
John Legg.
William Duncan.
1843
Edward Bruce.
William Burleigh, J.P.
Stewart Dunn.
1856
i*57
1X58
V.
W.
Magill.
Thomas Mercer
Glendinning Martin.
Robert Forbes.
John Smyth.
Birnie.
-Robert Forbes.
John Legg.
W.
C. Allen.
Marriott Robert
J.
Dalway.
Thomas
James Alexander.
Andrew Forsythe.
1863
1864
1865
1866
John Borthwick.
William M'tiee, M.D.
Snowden Corken.
Samuel Greame Fenton.
18(17
1
8h8
i.X(x)
1870
1871
1872
1873
187:5
1876
1877
1878
1879
1880
188 1
1882
1883
1884
1885
3886
1887
,888
1889
1890
1891
1892
1893
W.
William Burleigh.
IHeitrick Jones Hill.
Peter Kirk.
H. T. Higginson.
William Kirk.
James Barnett.
William Kirk.
James Barnett.
So
1862
i
Jjohn Legg.
William Moore.
Charles M'Garell.
Stephen Richard Rice.
185(1
i8b<>
i
j George Forsythe.
he
Davys Wilson
when
November,
Bruce was appointed.
;
1844
1845
1846
1847
1848
1849
1850
1X51
1852
1853
1854
1855
John Legg.
D.
William
Samuel Campbell.
Battersby.
Duncan Wilson.
Rowan
Robert Forbes.
William M'Dow.
;!.
Joshua Chase.
Legg.
James Mehan.
Alexander Johns.
Thomas
Greer.
Austin Cornwall.
Alexander Taylor.
Frances Elcocke Massey.
George M'Auliffe, J.P."
Robert Alexander, J.P.
John Campbell.
William John Xicholl, J.P.
Wm. Allan Woodside, J.P.
Charles A. W. Stewart.
James Taylor Reid, J.P.
George Edmonstone Kirk.
William Bell, J.P.
Pardo A. Kirk.
John Shaw Exham, J.P.
Robert MacMurray, J.P.
Samuel Larmour.
A. J. A. Lepper, J.P.
Robert Kelly,
James Napier Hamilton.

John M'Ferran.
William Porter, J.P.
Edward W. Keean.
Colonel James Craig, J.P.
Henrv H. Boitomlev.
Robert Kelly,
Jur..
Henrv H. Bottomlov.
Jur..
<'
in
Edward
502
John Barbour Pirrie.
David Woodside.
John Wilson.
John Wilson, J.P.
Robert Kelly, J.P.
Charles James Johnstone.
1894
'$95
1896
1897
1898
1899
In
\vas
Robert Kelly, Jun.
1899, under the Irish Local

for Assizes purposes in
Sheriff abolished.
merged
High
Government Bill, Carrickfergus.

County Antrim and the office of
Biographical Sketches.
SHERIFFS.
ADAIR.
Early in the seventeenth century Captain James

Adair (whose will, dated gth March, 1685, was proved 2oth July, 1686)
settled at Loughanmore.
He had by his wife, Annabel Blair, a son
Benjamin, born 1655, who was married to Ann, daughter of Waterhouse
Crymble, of Ballygallogh, by whom he had, with other issue, a son
Thomas Benjamin, born 1705, who was married about 1736 toMargaret, daughter of Charles Crymble the elder, of Ballygallogh. They
had, with other issue, three sons
Charles, born 1737
Benjamin,
born 1738
and William Robert, born 17
who were all married
in
to
of
of
Charles,
Millicent, daughter
1775,
Henry Ellis,
Prospect
Benjamin, Lieut. -Col. of the Royal Marines to Susannah, a sister of
Rere-Admiral Wm. Prowse, C.B.
and Wm. Robert to Rose Ann,
Thompson, of Muckamore Abbey, and all had issue.
daughter of
Charles Adair had two sons, Thomas Benjamin, born 1776, who was
Maj'or of Carrickfergus in 1832, was married and had issue (as
stated below), and Henry, born 1781, who was Sheriff of Carrickfergus
in 1822, and Town Clerk for many years, and died unmarried.
The
last named, Thomas Benjamin Adair (he inherited, in 1797, the estate
of his grandfather, Charles Crymble, which he afterwards sold, see
page 290), was married, in 1806, to Amelia Sophia Leonore, daughter
of the above-named Col. Benjamin Adair, and by her had five sons,
who all died unmarried, namely Charles, who was proposed as M.P.
for Carrickfergus in 1830, being then a Captain in the 33rd Regiment
of Foot
Henry, High Sheriff of Co. Antrim in 1871
Benjamin
Rev. Thos. B.,
Clements, a Major in the Royal Antrim Artillery
and Wm. Robert, a Lieutenant in the 67th
Vicar of Templepatrick
Regiment of Foot and four daughters, of whom only the youngest,
Eleanor Margaret, was married, viz., to a grandson of the first abovenamed Wm. Robert Adair, the Rev. James Hunt, Incumbent of
Ahascragh, Co. Galway (who predeceased her). Mrs. Hunt died 13111
April, 1909, without having had issue, whereupon the Loughanmore
estate (including some property near Ahoghill) devolved upon MajorGeneral Sir Wm. Thompson Adair, K.C.B., of the Royal Marines, a
1822.
grandson of the above-named Lieut. -Col. Benjamin Adair.

M'CANCE. John M'Cance, Esq., M.P. for Belfast,
claimed descent from the Clan Macdonald, through that sept the
M'lans of Glencoe, who after the Massacre of Glencoe, on i3th
February, 1692, were scattered over the adjacent parts of Scotland.
Three brothers landed near Donaghadee, in Co. Down, in which
The first of the
county there are still descendants of two brothers.
name we find in Co. Antrim are David and William, of Mulliganstown
William
(the two children of the eldest of the three brothers)
(1693-1753) died unmarried, David (1684-1747) married Isabella, and
great
1829.
53
had one son, John (1711-1786),
Stouppe, and had issue, David
whom
in
of
Dunmurry, who married Rachel

of Upper Falls, from
(1736-1773),
direct descent is his great grandson, Colonel

John M'Cance,
Knocknagoney, Co. Down, and John (1744-1811), of Farmhill,
Dunmurry, who married Jane Charley, and had issue, John (1772-1835)',
of "Suffolk," Dunmurry, M.P. for
Belfast, from whom, by his first
wife, Maria Finlay, is descended his great grandson, John
Stouppe
of
Finlay M'Cance,
"Suffolk," and by his third wife, Sarah Law, are
descended his great grandsons, John Law M'Cance, now of Wimbledon,
London, and Joseph Bell M'Cance, of Mauricewood, Midlothian.
LEGG. John Legg, Esq., was a descendant of the
1840-1.
family of Legge or Longg, who were granted two quarter shares of
the lands of the corporation in 1606.
He was a currier and tanner
in the Scotch Quarter and resided at
Glynn Park. At his death he
left his property to his nephew, William
Rowan, who afterwards took
the name of Legg.
William Rowan Legg was a Trinity College
man with honours, and was High Sheriff in 1868. He died, leaving
the property to his brother Edward L. Rowan Legg, now in Canada.
WILSON. William Duncan Davys Wilson, Esq., who
1842.
died November, 1842, was a nephew of C. A. W. Stewart, and was
married to Jane Dal way, who died at Eastbourne, April, 1892.
His
only son, Dr. William Duncan Wilson (High Sheriff, 1867), died at
Summer Place, South Kensington, London, March 3oth, 1897 his
widow married Charles Hayward, August 2gth, 1900. Mrs. Hayward
of
died,
190
BRL'CE. In 1831 the King (William IV.) was pleased

1843.
to give and grant to Edward Brice, of Kilroot, His Majesty's royal
license and authority that he, and the issue of his father, may take
and use the surname of Bruce, instead of that of Brice and also may
use and bear the armorial designs of Bruce, instead of those of Brice,
to commemorate his descent from the noble and ancient family of
In 1851,
Bruce, of Airth, in the County of Stirling, in Scotland.
March, at the sale of encumbered estates, the lands of Edward Bruce,
in the townland of Kilroot, were purchased by Mr. Henry Russell in
Reid states (Vol.
trust for the late C. R. Dobbs, Esq., for ^Tio.ooo.
New Edition) " James Brice, grandson of Edward, had
I., p. 203.
a son John, who removed from Kilroot to the neighbourhood of
Edward, son of John, lived at CloughCavehill, early in last century.
castle or Greencastle, and was a farmer, his eldest daughter, Blanche
Brice, was married to James Killen, grandfather of the late Professor
W. D. Killen.
BURLEIGH. William Burleigh, Esq., J.P., was a
1844.
descendant of William Burleigh, a Captain in Sir John Clotworthy's
Regiment of Horse, who was wounded at the defence of Lisburn,
Born in 1797, he married in 1828, Lucretia,
against O'Neill, in 1641.
daughter of James Wills, Esq., of Plas Bellin, Co. Flint, by Lucretia
Anne Kingslev, his wife, and had issue six sons and six daughters.
Of these Miss Rebecca Mary Burleigh and Mrs. S. P. Close, of
;
Carrickfergus,
are the only
living
M'GARELL.
1848.
the son of Charles
representatives.
Charles M'Garell,
Magheramorne,
Esq.,
M'Garell, who was a successful shoe and
was
The elder son
Larne.
inn
in
an
brogue maker, and afterwards kept
died unmarried, and the younger, Charles, bestowed to Larne the
M'Garell Town Hall and the M'Garell Cemetery, and, dying childless,
he bequeathed the estate at Glynn, which he had purchased from John
the late Sir James Hogg, afterwards
Irving, Esq., to his wife's brother,
Sir James M'Garell Hogg, brother to Quintin Hogg, founder of the
Sir James M'Garell Hogg was married to a sister of
Polytechnic.
the present Earl of Shaftesbury.
54
KIRK. Peter Kirk, M.P., D.L., J.P., Thornfield, was
second son of Sir William Kirk, for many years Mayor of
Peter Kirk
Carrickfergus, \vho died June 17, 1819, aged 77 years.
married Ellen, third daughter of the late Noah Dahvay, Esq., Bellahill,
and had issue, William (High Sheriff, 1852, 1854), Charles Edmonstone,
Peter Kirk died November ist, 1856, aged 56
Ellen, Anne, and Marie.
Charles Edmonstone Kirk
years William Kirk died May i3th, 1855
died agth July, 1857, aged 26 years.
He was a Captain in the ist
Royal Regiment,' and served through Alma, Inkerman, and the Siege
1850.
the
Maria Kirk dk-d

of Sevastopol.
Ellen Kirk died August i5th, 1875.
In 1857 Anne, second daughter, married the Very
April ist, 1881.
Rev. George Bull, D.D. (who came to Carrickfergus in 1855, succeeding
Dean Chaine in the Deanery of Conner), by whom he had two
sons, who took the surname of Kirk, and under the wills of their
aunts, the late Misses Ellen and Mary Kirk, became entitled to the
Kirk property and estates, George Edmonstone Kirk, J.P., D.L., was
born at Redhall, September 25th, 1858, married, first, 24th July, 1887,
Isabel Margaret, daughter of Mr. Seawright, 80 Lancaster Gate:,
London, W. second, Agnes Beatrix Armstrong, only daughter of Sir
George Armstrong, proprietor of the Globe newspaper, London, and
has issue one daughter, Eileen Beatrice. George E. Kirk (High Sheriff,
1883) died March 23rd, 1909, on voyage from China, and was buried at
sea.
Pardo A. Kirk (High Sheriff, 1885), of St. Catherine's, CarrickDown, married in February, 1803,
fergus, and Ballywillwill, Co.
Ethel Frances, only daughter of Mr. Bailie Gage, Tirnaskea, Co.
Tyrone, Solicitor to the General Post Office, Dublin, and had issue one
Pardo A. Kirk was a retired Lieutenant in the Royal Antrim
son.
Garrison Artillery, and died in April, 1900.
;
ALLEN. W. J. C, Allen, Esq., J.P., lived at Faunornn

1858.
he was Chairman of the Ulster Bank, Belfast, and father of Andrew
J. C. Allen, Senior Wrangler at Cambridge.
;
FENTON.
1866.
Samuel Greame Fenton, Esq., was one of the
special respondents in the chancery suit of John Rea v. the Corporation
of Belfast.
GREER. Thomas Greer, J.P., of Sea Park, was married

1871.
Miss Owden, daughter of the late Mr. John Owden, a member of
the well-known and eminent Belfast firm of Richardson, Sons & Owden.
In 1880 Mr. Cireer stood as Conservative candidate for Carrickfergus in
Mr. Greer continued to represent
opposition to Mr. M. R. Dalway.
Carrickfergus until it was merged in the East Division of County
In addition, Mr.
Antrim, when he retired from parliamentary life.
Greer was for many years a member of the Grand Jury, a Justice of
the Peace for the County Antrim, first President of the Carrickfergus
Young Men's Christian Association, and a Patron of the Carrickfergus
Died September, 1905, leaving a
Literary and Scientific Society.
widow, a son (Thomas Macgregor Greer, Esq., J.P.), and three
to
daughters.
STEWART.
1881.
Charles Arthur Willoughby Stewart, B.L.,
the only son of Colonel Stewart, of Carrickfergus, and was born
January, 1815. He was educated at Trinity College, Dublin, where he
took his M.A. degree, and afterwards studied for and was called to
the Irish Bar in Hillary Sittings, 1839.
He was in the enjoyment of
a lucrative chamber practice, which he relinquished on the death of his
aunt, the late Miss Duncan, of Carrickfergus, to whose property he
He was agent for the Castle Dobbs and Ballynure estate
succeeded.
for upwards of 35 years, and was also agent for the estate of the late
was
Mr. \Y. D. D.
Scotch Quarter,
Wilson
\vas
unmarried,
and died
May ^th, 1899, aged 83 years.

1882.
REID. James Taylor Reid was the
Re-id, a merchant of Glasgow.
He succeeded to
at
his
residcr.ee,
son of the late John

Barn Mills on the
the
death of his uncle, the late Alexander

Taylor, Esq., J.P., in June,
Mr. Reid died in 1883, and, as the 'survivors were ladies, the
1878.
firm was formed into a limited
liability company., Mr. John Barbour,
Chairman, and Mr. John M'Ferran, Managing director.
BELL. William Bell, Esq., J.P., Silverstream House,

1884.
Greenisland, was a native of Hillsborough, Co. Down, and was an
t-xtensive grain merchant in Belfast.
He married Jemima, daughter of
Thomas Mitchell, shipowner, Glasgow, and had issue, two sons and
three daughters. Their eldest daughter married Thomas Gallaher, J.P.,
Bally goland, Greencastle, Chairman of Gallaher, Ltd., tobacco manuBelfast,
facturers,
Mitchell
Bell, are
November,
and
his
two
sons,
William James Bell and Thomas

Mr. Bell died 22nd
both directors of Gallaher, Ltd.
1905.
M.\cMURRAY. Robert MacMurray, J.P. for County

Antrim, was born at Glaskermore, near Loughbrickland, and is a
descendant of a very o'.d and influential family.
Some centuries ago
an account was given of the Meade family it was recorded that tlic
jrd Baronet was father-in-law to the 3rd Karl of Mayo, and father of
the ist Viscount Clanwilliam in 1766.
It was the ist Earl who, by
his marriage with Miss Magill, the heiress, acquired the estates of Gill
Co.
which
his
descendants enjoy.
Hall, by Dromorc,
Down,
John
Hawkins, whose daughter married Sir John Magill, Bart., the
ancestor of the present Richard James Meade, Earl of Clanwilliam,
who entered the navy when a boy of 13, and who was promoted to
Admiral of the Fleet in 1895. A daughter of Sir John Magill, Bart.,
married Robert Montgomery, Esq., heir to the several towns and
lands of Glaskermore, Glaskerbeg, and Endal, who died, leaving his
estates to his son, Robert Montgomery, on his attaining the age of 23
He married Helena Bullock, and had issue, three daughters,
years.
who were left by his will equal shares.
Helena, third daughter,
He died, leaving two daughters
married George MacMurray, Esq.
and one son, Robert, who was heir-at-law, and on the death of his
1887.
mother entered into possession of the third part of the lands of

Robert MacMurray, Esq., married
Glaskermore and Glaskerbeg.
Diana Bennet, and had issue, George, Susanna, and Robert
MacMurray. Susanna died young; George MacMurray died 4th May,
Robert MacMurray, the present representative of the family,
1903
married Miss Eagleson, and had born to him, at Glynn Park, three
of the old Municipal and Harbour
daughters. Mr. MacMurray was one
Commissioners, and acted as Chairman of both boards for many \rar>.
;
1888.
LEPPER.
Alfred
J.
A.
Lepper,
J.P.,
Rhanbuoy, was a
descendant of one of the oldest families in the North of Ireland, settled

He was second son of
in Donegal), early in the seventeenth century.
Robert Stewart Lopper. of Trainfield, Belfast, and of Jane, daughter
of John Heron, of Maryfield, Co. Down, who was one of the founders
Robert Stewart Lepper (died 1866) was one of
-of the Ulster Bank.
the special respondents in the famous chanc'-ry suit brought by John
Rea against the Corporation of Belfast. He was the eldest son of
Francis Leppor, who, with his brother Charles, founded the Lodge
known by the name of
Mill in 1808.
(This mill continued to be
out of the hands of the family,
epper'* even after it had passed
Francis Lepper married Jane Bryson,
was burnt down in 1875.)
Jane Bryson 's mother was sist
lialf sister to Samuel Nelson's wife.
1
56
to
John Brown, Sovereign of Belfast in the years 1797, 1799, i8oo t

1801
one of the " four Johns " (John Ewing, John Holmes, and John
Hamilton being the other three; who founded the second Bank of
Belfast in 1787.
Its location was at Cooney's Court in Ann Street.
Francis Lepper was second son of John Lepper and Sophia Millicent
Maxwell, his wife, who had a large family of children. John Lepper
lived in the eighteenth century, at Joybank, \Vhiteabbey, Co. Antrim >
on the site where the present Convent School stands. He was son of
;
Dalway Lepper, who died in 1753.

of the family are buried in the old
All the above-mentioned members

Churchyard, Carnmoney. The late
Francis R. Lepper, Senior Director of the Ulster Bank, was a brother
to the late A. J. A. Lepper.
Mr. A. J. A. Lepper married, in 1874,
His
Margaret, daughter of John Herdman, of Lodge House, Belfast.
only surviving son, John Heron Lepper, B.A., T.C.D., B.L., is the
"
present owner of the
Rhanbuoy."
M'FERRAN.
John M'Ferran, Esq., was the eldest son of

M'Ferran, Esq., of Fisherwick Lodge, Doagh, County
Antrim.
He was educated at the private school of Dr. Maloney,
Carrickfergus, an institution which in its day occupied a very high
He married
position among the educational establishments of Ulster.
Miss Ellen Love, daughter of the late James Love, Esq., Ballymena,
whose wife was a sister of the late James Taylor, Esq., the founder
of the firm of Messrs James Taylor & Sons, Ltd., Barn Mills.
Mr.
M'Ferran died August, 1904, leaving four sons and two daughters.
The eldest son, Mr. H. A. M'Ferran, holds a Government office ;
the second, Mr. James L. M'Ferran, of the firm of Messrs. James.
Taylor & Sons Mr. J. C. G. M'Ferran is engaged in the electrical
profession, and Captain E. M. M'Ferran is in the army.
1890.
the late
Wm.
1891.
PORTER.
Captain
William
Porter,
J.P.,
Greenisland.
was one of the oldest shipowners out of the port of Belfast.

His
father and grandfather were also shipowners.
He was a member of
the Local Marine Board, Belfast, the Shipowners' Protection Association of London, and sat on the Board of the Belfast Corporation for
Mr. Porter died at Bayview, Greenisland, August, 190(1,
years.
aged 86 years. His family numbered ten, of whom all are married,
seven being sons and three daughters. Mr. Porter was a liberal of trieold school, and when Mr. Dalway represented the division of Carrickfergus in Parliament he was an enthusiastic supporter of that gentleman.
many
1891.
1823.
in
KELLY. Robert Kelly, Esq., J.P., Greenisland, was born

After receiving his education, he studied for the legal pro-
and was admitted solicitor in 1855. He immediately opened

an office, and thus founded the business in Donegall Street, Belfast.
Mr. Kelly was brought into prominence in the rather stirring period
of 1868, acting as agent for the late Mr. Win. Johnston, M.P., of
Ballykilbeg, who had been incarcerated for three months in Downpatrick Jail, for having defied the New Party Processions Act by
heading the Orangemen in their demonstrations at Bangor on the i2th
On that occasion the other elected Member of Parliament was
July.
Mr^ (afterwards Sir) Thomas M'Clure, the defeated candidates being
The same year Mr.
Sir Charles Lanyon and Mr. John Mulholland.
Kelly was elected to the Corporation of Belfast as one of the Councillors
Mr. Kelly died October
for Dock Ward, retiring eventually in 1892.
His son, Mr. Robert Kelly, succeeded him
3ist, 1907, aged 87 years.
fession,
The other sons are Mr. H. C. Kelly, Sub-Sheriff for

Down, and Mr. Stewart C. Kelly, proprietor of Messrs. Jorm
Oulton & Co., flax merchants.
in
the business.
Co.
57
CRAIG.
Colonel
1893.
James Craig, J.P., 2nd Brigade, N.I.
Division, Royal Artillery, is a descendant of the first James
Craig we
find living in the Scotch Quarter, who was born in
1691, died in 1767,
and left his property to his son James, who married
of
Jane,
daughter
and had issue, one son, James Craig,
Carrickfergus in 1807, and three daughters
Sarah, married to Admiral Rapier, R.N.
Jane, married to Captain
and Mary, who married the Rev. Richard
Ellis, as his second wife
Dobbs, son of the Dean of Connor. The following members of the
family served as Deputy Recorder and Sheriff: James Craig, Esq.,
appointed Deputy Recorder by Barry Yelverton. first Lord Avonmore,
January, 1778; William Craig served as Sheriff from 1769 till 1773.
James Craig, M.P., 1807, was twice married and had issue, four sons
and four daughters.
His eldest son, Robert, was drowned in the
(iulf of St. Lawrence; Thomas became the father of the present Colonel
James Craig, J.P., now of Carlton Hall, who married, in 1885, the
Hon. Margaret Clementina Skeffington. nee Dennistoun of Dennistoun,
widow of the Hon. Sydney Wm. Skeffington, and had issue, one son,
Cecil De Vere Craig, who died in infancy.
Andrew Boyd,
of Scoutbush,
Esq.,
M.P.
Prospect,
for
1894.
PIRRIE.
John
Barbour
Managing Director of the Barn

He is a cousin of Lord Pirrie, of
is
the present
Pirrie,
Esq.,
" Barn."
Mills, and resides at the
Belfast.
WILSON. John Wilson, Esq., Faunoran, is a native of

1896-7.
Ballymena and an extensive linen merchant. He is the proprietor of
the Harryville Factory and Victoria Laundry, Ballymena, and the
Whitewell Laundry and Dye Works, Belfast. In 1897, November i2th,
Lieutenant-Colonel Sir Fleetwood Edwards, at the command of Queen
Victoria, forwarded to Mr. Wilson, High Sheriff, a handsome silver
medal to be worn in commemoration of the ooth year of Her Majesty's
reign.
JOHNSTOXE. Charles James Johnstone, Esq., New

1899.
Bath, Greenisland, the last High Sheriff, was the youngest son of the
He was married
late Mr. Thomas Johnstone, Whinfield, Greenisland.
to a sister of Thomas Houston, Esq., J.P., Carnmoney, by whom he
was
in the stockMr.
had three sons and four daughters.
Johnstone
He died at New Bath, January, 1901. His sons
broking business.
were associated with him in business. Mr. Johnstone was for many
years a member of the Grand Jury, and as last High Sheriff of the
County of the Town, prior to its inclusion under the Local Government
Act for Assizes purposes in County Antrim, acquitted himself with
marked
ability.
Page
130.
(See page 130.)
THE OFFICE OF HIGH SHERIFF ABOLISHED.
The case of the Queen, by the Right Hon. the Attorney-General, against
for his refusal
Captain Con way Higginson, of Dunloskiri, Carrickfergus,
to accept the office of High Sheriff for the County of the Town of
in
1896,
Carrickfergus, to which he was nominated and appointed
came on for hearing on Tuesday, May 4th, 1897, in the Nisi Prius
Court, Dublin, before the Lord Chief Justice and a Special Jury.
The prosecution, which was brought by writ of criminal inforas to the legal
mation, raised a very important as well as novel point
selection of sheriffs, and naturally created"
obligations involved in the
great and general interest.
very
'
The arguments of the learned counsel engaged for the
Crown and
5o8
the
were
defendant
-audience,
amongst
followed
whom
of the
issue
Bar.
with close attention by a considerable

a number of ladies and a large
were
representation
The real
was whether or not the Lord Lieutenant has
uncontrolled power in Ireland, of himself or the Lord
Justices acting
on his behalf, to appoint sheriffs in opposition to their
protest to fill
that office, and thereby make them
for
responsible
damages in the
event of their refusal to act in that capacity.
The defendant entered a general plea of "not guilty to the
contained
allegations
in
the writ.
Mr. George Wright, Q.C., in stating the case for the Crown,
"
said
This was a somewhat peculiar inquiry.
The defendant was
being prosecuted here by the Attorney-General by a form of procedure
that was not very usual in this country, viz., what was called a
criminal information.
It was alleged against
Captain Higginson that
when
High
called upon by law, and duly nominated

by law, to serve as
Sheriff for the County of the Town of
Carrickfergus, being called
to that office by Her Majesty's representatives in Ireland, he declined
to act.
It was called a criminal prosecution, but it was
essentially a
case brought for the purpose of vindicating the law by
seeing that it
must not be called into contempt or brought into confusion in CarrickA verdict of guilty would not involve
fergus or in any other place.
the defendant in five minutes imprisonment."
Counsel then proceeded to explain the procedure which regulated

make the appointment rested with Her Majesty, or her
Three names wr-re
representative, or those acting on his behalf.
selected, and unless there was good cause for acting otherwise the
authority to
first
name was
generally chosen.
Captain Higginson refused to act, and in a letter to the Under" that he had
secretary he explained
absolutely no connection with
Carrickfergus; he had not a foot of land in the town, and that he
a house which he would give up in April."
He further
only rented
" that
stated
he did not think it was ever contemplated that he was
to spend his small retiring allowance in that way."
The High Sheriff had to pay the Sub-Sheriff fifty guineas during
the year, and he had to provide a carriage for the judge.
He had also
to pay Crier's Fees, court fees, and supply liveries.
The carriage cost
^50, the liveries ^40, and the halbertmen had to be paid, in addition
to printing and advertising.
The decrees to be executed in one year
would amount to about twenty.
Mr. O'Shaughnessy addressed the jury for the defence, alleging
"
that
because Captain Higginson wanted to live within his means
the Crown wanted to punish him.
There was nothing more unjust or
unfair, and he confidently left the case with the jury."
His Lordship, in charging the jury, said " he proposed to put to
them three questions, but the third question would be the only one
which they would have any difficulty in dealing with.
The first
Did he refuse to accept the office of sheriff?' To that
question was
Did
To the second, which was
they would of course answer yes.
Tic refuse to take the oath of office?' they would also give an affirmative
The
third
was
Had
he
sufficient
lands
to
answer
reply.
question
the Queen and her people ?' "
His Lordship repeated the three
"
Had the defendant
questions already mentioned, adding a fourth, viz.
sufficient means to answer the Queen and her people."
The jury, after a short deliberation, answered the first two
questions in the affirmative and the other two in the negative.
His Lordship said he proposed to direct the jury what he thought
ought to be the verdict on their findings, and reserve everything for
both sides to have discussed in the Court above.
He had decided to
pass sentence himself. The jury, by direction, found a verdict of guilty.
'
'
'
59
It
I
proper that the Judge who hears

now accordingly hne you ^5."
The Attorney-General conducted
a case should
pass sentence
and
the proceedings, and the result of

this trial was to
bring about the abolition of the holding of a separate
Assize for Carrickfergus in
1899.
In 1898 it was stated that
country gentlemen have frequently
sought to evade the office of High Sheriff owing to the expense
attached.
ITlis is somewhat lessened, as in
August, 1*98, a circular \va<
issued by the Treasury stating that Sheriffs of counties
would in future
g'-t certain allowances for expenses incurred at assizes or the trial of
election petitions.
These expenses cover the cost of a carriage and
pair
of horses for the reception of the
judges, javelin men, and clerks, as
well as a fee of five guineas for each
attendance.
day's
MEMBERS OF PARLIAMENT FOR CARRICKFEKGUS. 187? TILL

1885, WITH THE NAMES OF THE UNSUCCESSFUL
CANDIDATES.
1835, Peter Kirk, C.,
1837, Peter Kirk, C, 446 ; Matthew Rennie, L,
418.
1841, Peter Kirk, L C.
1847, Hon. W. H. S. Cotton, C, 311.
1852
Hon. W. H. S. Cotton; Col. VV. H. L. Fiith, L, 295. 1857, W.
Cary
Dobbs, C, 560 ?>ancis M'Dcnagh, L, 383.
1852, Robert Torrens, C, 668';
W. Median, L C, 259. 1865, Robert Torrens, C, 498 ; Col. Hon. L.
1868. Marriott" Robert Dalway, L.
White, L. 285.
1874, Marriott Robert
1880, Thomas Greer, C, 591 ; Marriott Robert Dalway, L,
Dalway, L.
Colonel
M.
Marriott
Robert Dalway,
554.
M'Calmont, 4634 ;
1885.
James
2,318 (Carrickfergus being merged in East Antrim since 1885).
;
NOTICES OF MEMBERS OF PARLIAMENT.

Peter Kirk.
(See account of the High Sheriff.)
Hon. Wellington Henry Stapleton Gotten was the eldest son of
Lord Combermere. On the day appointed for the nomination of a candidate
r candidates for the
representation of the borough of Carrickfergus, the
interest of the proceedings was enhanced by the fact of an unexpected opposition to the Conservative candidate, the Hon. Major Cotton, it having been
organised by the Tenant-League party in the candidature of a certain Colonel
W. H. L. Frith, of the Hon. East India Company's service, of whom
nothing had been previously known to the electors or to any person except
the parties who invited him to come forward.
William Gary Dobbs. Q.C., was the son of the Rev. Robert Dobbs,
1857.
and subsequently one of the judges of the Landed Estates Court in Ireland,
Councillor Close,
after which appointment he resigned his seat in Parliament.
1835.
1852.
the aqent for the opposing candidate, Francis M'Donagh, boasted publicly
that Mr. M'Donagh paid him five guineas a day for performing the duties of
" Gutter
a character designated in Dublin by the name of a
Agent." This
aroused the indignation of ancient Carrickfergus, that had been everything
"
close borough."
l>efore but a
" Old Carrick

cries, while o'er his brow
Rage deepens every furrow
M'DonaglVs paying money now
To make me a Close borough."
;
Polling commenced at eight o'clock for

8th Hussars, commanded by Captain
from Belfast for the election,
Reilly and Lieutenant Mussenden, had arrived
and a number of these kept a passage clear in the market place by prancing up
and down.
company of the 5th Regiment, under command of Captain.
1857, Wednesday, April 1st.
Messrs. Dobbs and
'Donagh.
The
Maunsell, were drawn up with fixed bayonets out.ide the market, while a
posse of constabulary kept the entrance, and prevented all whom they knew
were not voters from entering. At an early hour, cars conveying voters, drove
furiously through the streets, and to and from the polling booths drunken
men, and as the day advanced immense numbers of women arrived from the
country districts, who were not wanting in their endeavours to increase the
excitement by cries and cheers.
Robert Torrens was a nephew of the late Judge Torrens, and
1859.
He spent a great part
brother-in-law to the Rev. C. O'Neill, Shane's Castle.
of his life in India, where he held a high civil appointment.
Marriott
Robert
account
of
the Dalway family).
1868.
Dalway (see
See page 116.
Petition of Robert Torrens.
Before leaving for Australia in December, 1886, Mr. Dalway was presented with an illuminated address in album form, and a purse of sovereigns
from friends and admirers in Carrickfergus and County Antiim. The presentation took place at the Royal Hotel, Belfast, on Friday, i?ih December,
1886.
1880.
Thomas Greer, J. P., Sea Park. Petition against. See page 121.
Colonel James Martin M'Calmont, M.P., J.P., Magheramorne,
1885.
son of the late James M'Calmont, of Abbeylands, Whiteabbey, Co. Antrim,
and Emily, daughter to James Martin, of Ross, Co. Galway. \\ as a captain
Sth Hussars and Denbighshire Hussars, and Hon. Colonel Antrim Artillery.
In 1880 was married to Mary Caroline, daughter to Colonel Romer, of Brynceinlin, Dolgelly, and has issue, Robert C. A., captain Irish Guards, and
Has been M.P. for East Antrim since 1885. In February, 1905,
Margaret.
Colonel M'Calmont, in recognition of his services as member of the division
from 1885, was presented with a magnificent service of plate and candelabra
from the electors in East Antrim.
LINES.
The
following lines were suggested by a
Carrickfergus in Septem-
visit to
ber, 1856. of Francis M'Donagh, Esq., Q.C., the Radical candidate for the
Joymount Presbyterian Church was opened on
representation of the town.
At this time the vote of a " free elector" was worth
that day by Dr. Cooke.
anything from five shillings to ten pounds, with a cow thrown in
:
barrister, thinking of things above,
And not of earth or ermine,

Travelled a hundred miles for love
Of a Presbyterian sermon.
To
a church newly built for Mr. Warwick,

counsellor took his journey,
And on Sabbath morning arrived in Carrick
The
Accompanied by
The
his attorney.
attorney behind
him
his patron before
He
walked down the meeting-house aisle

expressive smile which his features wore,
Might the birds from the bushes beguile.
;
The
With eyes now
He
Artful
To
raised,
now
fixed
on
his
book,
an hour-and-a-half,
assuming an artless look
sat for
catch the elders with chaff.
His attorney scoured the town next day

For listeners on the morrow.
Few came
Belfast
many that stayed away,

they managed to borrow.
but, for
men
5"
"To
" he
open the church," he said,
came down,
But happening to be in the way,
As a nominee represented their town,
He
might as well drive him away."
But nothing he spoke of his native

Connaught,
Of the faith he once held or forsook,
For his heart seemed set on an elder's blue Iwnnet,
And his soul was with Dr. Cooke.
I
wish him success, tho'
I know him no more

" the man in the
I know
moon ;"
" moonshine" all till
we'er paid the old score
then he is coming too soon.
A FREE ELECTOR.
Than
But
it's
Till
SHIP
AND YACHT BUILDING.
(Page 128.)
Wooden
shipbuilding was at one time carried on to a great extent.

The
first vessel launched, of which we have
any account, was the ''David Legg,'
named after the Town Clerk of that lime, and built about 1845. Some time
after a company was formed by Bowman, Logan & Co., and a
ship named
"
"
the
was the first to be built by them. In 1861, July 131*1,
Carrickfergus
a ship of 200 tons burden was launched from Robert Johnston's
shipvard,
and named the " Dorothea Wright." Paul Rogers (his son-in-law) became
in
and
in
1870,
proprietor
July, 1874, he launched his first vessel of 160 tons
"
Mr. Rogers gained fame by building
burden, named
Accrington Lass."
and designing a large number of yachts. His first attempt in this direciion
was the " Dawn," a 6o-tonner, built to the order of Mr. M. R. Dalway, then
M.P. for Carrickfergus. Then came the "Venture," a 15-tonner, which
carried off a large number of prizes.
The most notable was the "Olga,"
In 1883-4, he obtained a lease
which, in her time, was invincible in her class.
of the foreshore, and started iron shipbuilding. The first launched was in
"
Emulator." Robert Kent, from the Clyde, took
April, 1885, and named the
over the business, but this firm not being successful, the interest was bought
1
back by Mr. Rogers.

Robert Johnston died nth September, 1891, at Upper Loch Lomond,
Paul
parish of Simonds, aged 84, leaving four sons and two daughters.
Rogers, his son-in-law, was born at Slievetrue in 1834, and died, March 8th,
1901.
By his first marriage he had one daughter, who married Henry Lynn.
Several members of the Banker Corinthian Sailing
1897, March.
Club gave the order to Mr. John Hilditch, the present owner of the yacht
The names chosen
to
build
eight boats of a particular design.
building yard,
The Wimbrel," Mr. H. Trevor Henderson " Widgeon."
were as follows
Mr. Wm. Vint; " Halcoyve," Mr. G. H. Brown ; "Feltie," Mr. George S.
"
"
Colonel Sharman Crawford ;
Clarke
Flamingo," Mr. J. B.
" Hoopoe,"Messrs.
Messrs.
Pirrie
"Merle,"
Tem,"
King;
Smyth. With the
"
Wimbrel," all the yachts have changed owners. Severa
exception of the
of these gentlemen are officers in the Carrickfergus Sailing Club.
'
COUNTY ANTRIM
(Page 171.)
JAIL.
Grand Warrant, published September 5th, 1839
It appearing to the Grand Jury that the time had arrived to take active
and immediate steps to build a new Jail and Courthouse, or increase the
accommodation in the present one, and the Irish Municipal Bill having passed
the House of Commons, whereby the power is given to separate certain
An
extract from
"
boroughs from counties in which they are situated, which, if carried into effect,
as regards Belfast, would involve the propriety of a change of site for a Jail
and Courthouse to some more central situation than Carrickfergus within the
committee was appointed to inquire into the matter and
County Antrim.
r eport at next Assiz-s."
5'-'
At Road Sessions at Carrickfergus there were two1840, June 1 6th.

presentments, one for building a new County Jail in Belfast and the other for
the erection of a Courthouse same place.
These were passed, afier a spirited
content, by a majority of three.
On the Crumlin Road, Belfast, 8 acres of ground were
1841, August 6th.
purchased, at a cost of ^4,330, on which to build a new Courthouse and House
of Correction, to contain 300 cells.
(See page 109.)
The Assizes for the County of Antrim was held for the
1850, July igth.
first time in the County Courthouse, Belfast, this
building being completed at
a cost of ; 17,000.
The Commission was opened in the Crown Court by the
Right Hon. Justice Moore.
The old County Antrim Courthouse and Jail was

1851, November 5th.
sold in Mr. Hyndman's Mart, Belfast, to Alexander Stewart, solicitor to the
Board of Works, for the sum of ,390. The buildings were purchased on
behalf of the Government for the purpose of being converted into a convict
The lowness of the purchase was accounted tor by the fact that,
depot.
according to the lease, the Government title would be better than that of any
individual as long as the buildings were intended for the purpose of a prison.
It w.is expected that the services of the officers of the old County Antrim Jail
would be retained in the convict establishment.
1852, May 5th.
Notwithstanding that the Government had bought the
old Courthouse and Jail for the purpose of making a convict establishment, it
was impracticable, and Philipstown was selected for the purpose. This sale
was cancelled, and a yearly lease taken of the old Courthouse and Jail up to1896, when it was again sold.
Mr. Robert Forbes,* Governor of the County
1850, September 1st.
Antrim Jail, removed under the new Act 84 prisoners from that establishment
to the new Jail in Belfast, 35 of whom were convicts.
They were escorted by
a strong force of the Constabulary, under the command of Sub-Inspector Wr.iy.
The new Jail was built at a cost of
41,000, and to accommodate 350
prisoners.
At Spring Assizes an application was granted to pay

1851, March I2th.
the Inspector and Governor of Carrickfergus Jail a pension, the former ^25 per
annum and the latter 20.
At the Assizes it was agreed that all the officers should be
July ijth.
paid up 10 the time of their discharge two mon'hs from last Assizes.
Alterations and repairs were made in the County
1856, September I2th.
Antrim Courthouse and Jail to fit them for the accommodation of the staft of
the Royal Antrim Artillery and Royal Antrim Rifles, Carrickfeigus having
been selected by the Grand Jury in preference to Antrim or Randalslown.
For a considerable time past the military authorities
1894, June 1 5th.
had in contemplation the building of a barrack in Carrickfergus. As the time
had expired for which the Government, held the Courthouse, a site for a
barrack was being looked for.
The military authorities bought the old County
1896, March 2Oth.
Antrim Courthouse and Jail for 2,500, which was apportioned between Lady
Shaftesbury and the County of the Town of Carrickfergus.
Mr. Alexander Rodgers obtained ihe contract to remove
5897, February.
the old Jail, the ground on which it was built to be clear by the 1st of May.
The new Ordnance Stores, which have been built on the site of the old
County Antrim Jail, were completed in 1900. They are used as a depot for
the supply of the Belfast Army District (including Belfast, Dundalk, Ballyshannon, Enniskillen, Londonderry, and Cavan) with stores and war material.
The buildings are very extensive, and contain great storage accommodation.
One of the last governors of the old County Antrim Jail at Carrickfergus
was Mr. James Erskine, who occupied that position for 28 years. During his
*Mr. Robert Forbes, who was the first Governor of the Belfast
September, 1865, owing to ill-health.
retired in
Jail,
term of
office
Mr. Erskine was

exceedingly popular with every person he came
in contact with, and was the

recipient of a handsome service of plate presented
to him in the year 1834
by his numerous friends and
admirers in the County

retired May, 1849,
owing to ill-health, and was succeeded by
Mr.
Robert
Forbes.
nephew,
Mr. Erskine died in
Deputy Governor.
December, 1852, leaving a family of three sons,
namely-James Erskine,
solicitor ; Pakenham Erskine,
merchant
in
Belfast ; John Erskine
grain
Rector of Wychffe, England and three
daughters, nearly all of whom have
of Antrim.
He
his
living representatives.
Page 397. State of the County Antrim

Jail from 1839 till September
1850, when all prisoners were removed to Belfast.
Total confined in Jail. 222.
1839, March 6th.
In February, 14 male
convicts left Carrickfergus for Dublin, on their
way to Van Diemen's Land.
Number of prisoners in Jail at July Assizes, 162.
Spring Assizes, March loth, 1840, number of prisoners in Jail, 997.
Spring Assizes, March 3rd, 1841, number of prisoners in Jail, 203.
Assizes, March 3rd, 1842
Capital convicts, 14 for offences at Assizes,
for
offences at Sessions, 36 ; for fines,
4;
for trial at
5 ; by magistrates, 2
112
for
trial
at
Sessions,
Assizes, 28 ; debtors, 14 ; County of
:
Carrickfergus
Total. 220.
prisoners, 5.
Assizes,
Number
of
March, 1844.
Spring
prisoners in Jail, 123.
January 24th, 1845, 25 convicts were sent to the Depot, Dublin, for transportation to Van Diemen's Land.
Number of prisoners in Jail, 155.
1846, March 2Oth.
Summer Assizes, July I7th. Number of prisoners in Jail, 83.
Number of prisoners for trial at Spring Assizes, 177.
1847, March I2th.
Number of prisoners in Jail, 155.
1848, July 28th.
Under rule of transportation in Jail, 63; for trial II ;
1849, March 20th.
debtors, 21 ; under rule of confinement 3 ; insane persons, 8.
Total confined, 162.
Prisoners, 153.
1850, March.
84 prisoners
1850, September 1st.
Belfast, 35 of whom were convicts.
were
removed
to the
new
Jail at
As there is no description left of this Jail, which was taken down in 1896,
the following may be of interest
The entrance to the Jail was by a small
postern gate, immediately to the north of the modern structure, and through
long dark passages and staircases in which no daylight appeared ; a corridor
fifteen feet wide, arched overhead ; on either side a dozen large iron doors,
with massive iron crossbars, secured with padlocks half a foot in length. These
were the doors to the cells, which were dark and gloomy.
Light was
admitted through three tiers of iron bars, embedded in the masonry of a wall
The opening on the inside was a few feet square, but tapered
five feet thick.
away until it was about three-quarters of a foot square, and so it was cell after
In a dayroom, 2oft. x I3ft., a boiler was set for cooking as prisoners
cell.
cooked their own food and each cell was provided with two beds. Two
(See page 395. ) There was also the dark cell, the
prisoners slept in each.
condemned cell, and the record cell. The dark cell was of a darkness that
could have been felt. The condemned cell was very much like the others.
The record cell, the walls of which were covered with names and initials, with
the length of terms of imprisonment to which their owners had been subjected.
After passing through a number of passages, there was an iron door leading
In one corner
into a courtyard, surrounded by high walls of massive masonry.
stood a semi-circular stone staircase, flanked with a balustrade of iron railings.
This staircase led up tu the chapel, where the condemned man received the
After ascending the stone steps,
last rites of his church before execution.
which were worn deeply away in the centre by the passage of many fett, and
from the summit looked down on a courtyard, over which by a causeway the
:
34
condemned man was conducted to an apartment, and from whence through a

window to the open street, where the scaffold was erected the houses opposite
bore the suggestive name of Drop View Terrace.
Complete classification and
inspection are indispensable in a good jail, and in this prison they were both
wanting. There was communication among prisoners of different classes and
sexes.
Females were kept spinning linen yarn, but the males were doomed to
idleness.
A schoolmaster was provided, and his services were considered
;
invaluable.
collection of the padlocks, fetters, manacles, &c., of this Jail

to the Belfast Museum.
(See Annals of
were given by the late Dr. Moore

County Antrim Jail, page 394. )
HARBOUR.
The
old harbour enclosed a water area of about an acre, with

Page 232.
600 feet of berthage ; while the new harbour is 16 acres, and 1,000 feet
additional quayage, and a depth of water at high tide averaging from 9 to 17
About the year 1867, the Harbour Commissioners added a red sandstone
feet.
extension, having a quayage of 230 feet, at a cost of
5,200.
(At this time
there were thirteen shipowners, who had 433 registered vessels coming into the
Subseharbour.) This extension ran into the sea in a southerly direction.
quently a wooden jetty, 350 feet in length, was added to this, besides a turn
in a westerly direction of no feet.
In 1881, the foundation-stone of a new harbour was laid, a loan of
12,000 having been obtained on the security of the Great Commons. This
harbour is enclosed by two piers the east, the "Albert Edward," and the
The west pier starts from the point known as
west, the "Alexandra Pier.'
Wilson's Quay, at the old Vitrol and Salt Works, and runs in a southerly
it
then
turns to the east, and extends for a further
direction for i.ooofeet;
The east pier is a condistance of 190 [feet, terminating in a pier head.
tinuation of the red sandstone one for a distance of 410 feet towards the
south
turning to the west, it runs 148 feet, and terminates in a pier head
similar to the west pier. The entrance to the harbour between the two pier heads
Each pier has a clear cartway for traffic of 24 feet, and both are
is 80 feet.
The first vessel
fitted up with mooring and storm palls at regular intervals.
to enter the harbour after it had been opened in April, 1885, was the schooner
Susan, belonging to an old and much-respected firm of merchants, Messrs.
(See page 122.) In 1891 the harbour was dredged, at a
J. & R. Alexander.
cost of
1,000, and ten years later it was again dredged at a cost of
595.
A number of years ago the owners of a line of steamers running from
Belfast to Bangor made application for permission to erect a jetty at the east
pier, to enable their vessels to call at Carrickfergus at all states of the tide.
The applicants' only stipulation was that no opposition pleasure steamers
were to be granted permission to use the jetty. The application was refused,
and no such offer has been made since.
For a number of years the harbour did not pay, because Belfast and
Lame had taken most of the trade from it, and the interest on loans and
annual expense to keep it in order have taken more than the income. The
chief benefit from the cost and care of the Harbour Commissioners seems to
fall to the War Department, on whose behalf steamers bring at times large
quantities of stores to the place for which no harbour dues are paid.
In order to utilise the harbour to the best advantage, it was thought
necessary to connect it by a line of railway with the Northern Counties line
;
Bill giving the

Midland).
necessary powers was passed in
Parliament, and what is known as the Harbour Junction Railway has been
The line is seven furlongs in length,
7,500.
completed at a cost of
In 1831 the Scotch Quarter
including the portion which traverses the pier.
Quay was erected by the Fishery Board. This quay is now under the control
of the County Council.
The amount due in July, 1908, on account of Harbour loans was
13,808 has been advanced by the Urban
11,036, and up to the present
(now
District Council, making the total indebtedness

24,844.
During the year
*98 395 vessels entered the port. Exports 14,522 tons rock salt; 6,318 tons
made salt ; 1,988 tons brick. Imports Coal, 35,488 tons.
Grains, slates,
an3 gunpowder are also imported. The harbour receipts for the year ending
1,284 2s. od. ; the balance of income over expenditure
July, 1909, were
The expenditure is exclusive of the annual
was, in July,
517 6s. 7d.
interest and instalment of principal paid on foot of the Government loans to
the Public Works Loan Board, London, and the Board of Public Works,
Dublin.
During the past year ending July, 1909, 429 vessels, of a total
The exports were Rock
registered tonnage of 20, 795 tons, entered the port.
The
salt, 13,076 tons; manufactured salt, 8,616 tons; bricks, 1,826 tons.
imports were
Coal, 37,861 tons; powder, 1,553 packages; grains, 415 tons;

;
slates, 93 tons ; tiles, 136 tons.
On and after
Carrickfergus Harbour Orders, 1862, 1865, and 1874.
May, 1901 Vessels entering with cargo and discharging, and loading
outward with more than half register tonnage, per register ton, 6d. Every
vessel entering and discharging cargo, 5d.
Every vessel entering light or in
ballast and loading outward with more than half registered tonnage, 3Jd.
rebate of
Every vessel entering the harbour in any other manner, 2^d.
25 per cent, allowed to all sailing vessels. Tug boats, when not engaged in
All
Lighters entering the harbour, 55.
towing, entering the harbour, 55.
pleasure boats, open boats, and fishing boats excepted.
The opening
In July, 1907, a band stand was erected at Joymount.
ceremony was performed by Mrs. T. D. Johns, Joymount Court, Carrickfergus.
alabaster, 4 tons; plates, 18 tons
The
SALT MINES.
Page 311. The salt trade of Carr ckfergus began in 1852. In the month
-of August the then Marquis of Downshire, anxious to develop the mineral
At Duncrue,
resources of the county, made trial borings in search of coal.
north-west of the town, rock salt (not coal) was struck at about 600 feet from
the surface.
Mr. M. R. Dalway afterwards made several attempts to discover salt in

the neighbourhood of Eden, but only succeeded in getting brine in small
He afterwards sank a shaft at Maidenmount, and found it there ;
quantities.
and this he followed up by another successful effort in
'Kay's land in the
North-East Division.
Messrs.
J.
and W.
connected with
it,
interest in this mine was subsequently acquired by

Logan, who effected many important improvements
the erection of pans at Boneybefore for the
The
including
of salt.
Afterwards Messrs. Logan
melting of the rock, and the manufacture
and the working of these two mines was carrie on
parted with their interest,
by M. R. Dalway & Co., Ltd.
In 1856, the' Belfast Mining Company was formed, and a tramway from
Duncrue to the Northern Counties Railway was made, and at Jennymount
works were erected for the conversion of the rock salt into white salt until
and the site taken over by the Northern Counties
1878, when abandoned,
Midland) for a goods yard. About 1868, Mr. D.
Railway Company (now

shaft and erected
O'Rorke sank a
salt
works
at the old distillery.
In 1887 the interests of the Belfast Mining Company were bought by Mr.
the rock salt into
\lexander Miscampbell, who erected new works to dissolve
to Clipperstown, where it was boiled, and
brine, and piping the brine down
the works
the manufactured salt put into waggons at a railway siding adjoining
Mr. Miscampbell continued
for conveyance over the various Irish railways.
were
mines
purchased by the Salt
to hold the works until 1888, when all the
These mines comprise
Union Ltd., now all managed by Mr. Miscampbell.
and Eden Salt Mines, and Irish
Duncrue, Maidenmount, Burleigh Hill,
Quarter South and Clipperstown Salt Manufactories.
opened the salt mine at Eden.
the Chemical Salt
About
1890,
Company
Tennant Bart of Peebleshire.

This was the property of the late Sir Charles
In 1892 the bait
Scotland.
-who owned large chemical works in England and
Mines Syndicate was formed by Mr. Dundas Simpson, of Edinburgh, whopurchased the rights from Messrs. Wm. Vint & Sons. Mr. Simpson erected
four steam pans, which proved unsuccessful, and the Debenture Trust took over
the business, and six furnace pans of the ordinary type were substituted.
The whole business was worked at a loss until taken over by the late Jame*
Hodkinson in March, 1903. He died, July, 1903, leaving the business to his-
who are working the mines.

Arrangements have been made, and new works are being erected, to
manufacture salt by the Tee process.
Mr. H. Tee, of St. Helen's, is the
four eldest sons,
The works, when completed, are expected to be

patentee of this process.
capable of turning out 50,000 tons per annum, and will be worked under thename of the International Salt Co., Ltd., the management being still in the
Hcdkinson
family.
Carrickfergus Salt Works Co., Ltd., have their manufactory at

The works cover 2J acres. The thickness of the bed of rock salt
at Eden is 96 feet.
Of this about 50 feet is kept intact to form the roof of the
mine, and the lower 46 feet is worked almost in one face in a series of great
The
Minorca.
spacious chambers, 30 to 40 feet high.

It has been stated that the Carrickfergus salt deposit is the result of theevaporation of sea water or salt lakes among the deposit of the new red sandstone which form the slopes of the escapements along the north of the Lagan
Valley, and, indeed, underlie almost the entire area of County Antrim.
When we consider what a small proportion of solid salt is contained in
sea water, we may calculate what an enormous quantity of water must havebeen evaporated to produce a solid bed of salt 96 feet thick. The same strata
of limestone, clay, gypsum, and rock salt in lagoons, exist from Lisburn to-
and from that to Carrickfergus and Lame.

now fully 70 years since Sir Robert Kane wrote that the strata ol
the vicinity of Belfast and Cheshire were identical, and yet, remarked Sir
If Fortescue
Robert, there is no salt to be found in the vicinity of Belfast.
Gregg, the celebrated salt manufacturer of Ballymacarrett, had known there
was salt so near Belfast, he certainly would have left behind him a largeamount of wealth accumulated by salt refining.
Belfast,
It is
COPELAND ISLANDS.
Lighthouse Isle, on which is the stump of an old lighthouse,
contains about 40 acres, and is now rented for shooting snipe, seabirds, and
This lighthouse was, in 1796, a beacon light, in which,
rabbits being plentiful.
the illumination was by coal placed in an iron grating or chaffer, and reSoon
plenished at intervals as the coal began to burn down during the night.
Page 313.
after
it
was lighted by
Mew
oil.
one vast flat rock, some 26 acres in extent, and nowhereabove sea level. On it is the splendidly-equipped lighthouse
(to replace the old one on Lighthouse Isle), completed in 1884, the tower of
which is laofeet high, and the lights flash over a radius of 18 miles. The
In thick or foggy weather huge
illuminant is gas, manufactured on the spot.
About 1846 a Liverpool paddle
sirens boom out their reverberating warning.
steamer was wrecked on the Mew Isle, during a dense fog, when coming to
Belfast on a Sunday morning in July.
Big or Great Island is separated from the mainland of Donaghadee by a
deep sound a mile in breadth. Donaghadee Pier was built about 1827, after
The lighthouse at the
the introduction of steam vessels to carry the mails.
entrance to the harbour was constructed only 50 feet in height, as it was
principally intended to guide the navigators into the harbour after they had
Island
more than 40
is
feet
passed the Copeland lights.

story is told in connection with this pier that mav not be out of placehere.
On the occasion of Daniel O'Connell making his hurried exit from
Belfast, in January, 1841, by way of Donaghadee for Portpatrick, after declining Dr. Cook's challenge to discuss the Repeal question, before starting.
from the pier O'Connell was standing on the deck of a steamer

lying in the
harbour, and there is a tradition that a Scotch piper who happened to be on
the pier struck up on the bagpipes the tune, " He'll gang nae mair tae
yon
toon," to the great amusement of the bystanders, who had assembled to see
Daniel O'Connell, whose identity had become known.
At the present time the Copeland Islands belong to Captain R. W. B.
Ker, of Portavo, Donaghadee, and Montalto, Ballynahinch.
INDUSTRIES.
'842 James and William Gamble carried on the business of
flax-spinning at Upper Woodbum, Woods & Dobson at Woodlawn, and William
Walker at Scotch Quarter. Cotton-Spinning James Cowan at Duncrue, and
In 1852 the same gentlemen carried on the
John Vance at Lower Woodburn.
business of flaxspinning, with the addition of James Taylor at the Barn,
Samuel Woods at Sullatober, and William Cowan, Duncrue. There was also a
muslin bleachgreen at Woodburn, J. & T. T. Kennedy, proprietors bleachgreen at Kilroot, Michael Andrews, of the Ardoyne Damask and Diaper
Manufactory, proprietor ; and William Walker at Joymount, afterwards
Robert MacMurray. In 1856 there were three sewed muslin manufacturers
viz., Turnbull & Co., Lancasterian Street; Sharp, Wallace & Co., West Street;
and James Robinson & Sons, Castle Street. At Woodburn, Hill Woods manuIn 1863 Mrs. Bragg was a sewed muslin
factured wadding and cotton bands.
manufacturer at Woodburn, and in 1884 Thomas Gird wood was the proprietor
of a weaving factory same place.
The works in Woodburn at the present time
-are a weaving factory and bleachworks
proprietors, County Down Weaving
Company, Ltd.; and the Duncrue Hemstitching Factory proprietors, G. & J.
Templeton. These replace the cotton-spinning and muslin bleachgreens before
mentioned, both industries, like handloom weaving, being now extinct.
Page 359-
The flax-spinning mills of Messrs. James Taylor & Sons are three-quarters
In 1858 Mr.
a mile from the Railway Station, and were founded in 1852.
An old
Taylor's sons, James and Alexander, were taken into partnership.
road leading past the mills from the Shore Road is kept up at the expense of
Mr. James Taylor, jun., died in 1871, and Mr. Alexander
the Company.
Taylor seven years later. Mr. James Taylor Reid, nephew, then assumed
He died in 1883. In 1881, the late Mr. Reid having lost the water
control.
supply for driving purposes by the Belfast Water Commissioners taking Lough
Mourne, expended several thousand pounds in the erection of a new enginehouse and engines of the latest and most improved description, so that the mills
at the present time are the most complete of their kind in Ireland.
The Sullatober Bleaching and Print Works Company was registered under
In the printing process hand and roller are
the Limited Liability Act in 1872.
combined, and bleaching is done according to the most improved methods.
-of
and cottons are

printing of handkerchiefs, and bleaching of lawns, linens,
These premises were built for flax-spinning many
for Belfast and Lurgan.
of a corn mill. Afteryears ago, and were remodelled to suit the requirements
wards they served the purpose of a spinning and weaving factory, and were
The works were originally called
ultimately converted to their present uses.
Oakfield Factory, and were, I believe, in 1819, the property of the Rev.
Bleach and Dye Works occupy the site of an old
Richard Dobbs.
The
done
Joymount
They are a branch of Sullatober Printworks.

spinning mill.
The tanning of leather, distilling of whiskey, and the making of soap and
candles have given place to the manufacture of bread there being three bakery
establishments and the manufacture of salt. The salt mines in the neighbour
.hood are the only ones in Ireland.
5*8
NOTES.
TREATY WITH THE SCOTS.
The statement on thison the 24th January, 1641, a treaty was entered
"
"
into with the Scots' Commissioners in England for
1,500
auxiliary
Page
page
38.
to the effect that
The number given istroops to garrison Carrickfergus is incorrect.

evidently a misprint for 2,500, the number actually agreed upon; and
the date was 1642 not 1641 according to our way of reckoning, as the
year began on 25th of March until 1752 A.D.
(See page 48.)
The second treaty alluded to on page 391 was not concluded till 6thScottish
None
of
the
sent over till April,
were
August, 1642.
troops
1642, and consequently they could not take part in the Island Magee
massacre on the 8th of the previous January. In this treaty there isan allusion to the fact that .7,500 would (for the men then sent to
Ireland) be the proportion of the ,30,000 promised for the entire
number. Now when the total number agreed upon was 10,000, thisgoes to prove that it was 2,500 who were sent first, as already stated.
81.
Page
GENERAL STRODE 'S REGIMENT.
The Duke
of
This regiment, the Wiltshire, was

Edinburgh's Wiltshire Regiment.
formerly the 62nd General Strode's Regiment, mostly recruits, commanded by Lieutenant-Colonel Jennings, and having only a small
supply of ammunition, they fired the buttons of their tunics at the
French troops. For this act the buttons of the regiment were marked
"
" of lead
These buttons ceased to>
with a
to represent a bullet.
splash
be worn in 1881, when the 62nd Regiment was linked to the 99th Regiment, now stationed at Devizes.
Colonel Hill Carter, C.B., late the Wiltshire Regiment, has
written an account of the origin of the 6and Wiltshire Regiment. The
"
On the 2ist April, 1757, the 2nd King'sfollowing is an extract
Own was constituted the 62nd foot, under command of Col. Wm.
Strode, an officer who had served under the Duke of Cumberland
;
who
on distinguished himself
by
gallant defence of Carrickfergusagainst Thurot, being appointed Lieutenant-Colonel."
Tradition statesIn 1787 the 62nd was called the "Wiltshire."
thai Colonel Jennings, in order to husband the ammunition, ordered
only half the powder from each cartridge to be fired with the bullet,,
and the other half with one of the buttons of the men's tunics,
"Such is the episode in the history of the 'Six and Twos,' which,
now the button with its splash has disappeared from the corps, requires'
The
to be re-written for the benefit of the present generation of
Major Jennings,
of the 3oth
when commanding
foot,
the 62nd,
later
his
'
!'
Springers
THUROT'S LANDING. The following estimate of the

inhabitants of Carrickfergus by the French landing and
taken and sworn to
plundering the town on the 2ist of February last,
the 23rd March, 1760, is taken from Book No. 2 of Civil Affairs,.
"
Dublin.
'759- 61 Bradford," in Public Record Office,
Page 83.
losses of the
Patrick
Allen,
Henry Clements
Dal way Clements
Robert Clements
Charles Crymble
Samuel Blair
...
10
...
16
...
13
12
...
...
...
93 15
i
132
4^
14
17 10
New York.
1909, Thursday, June nth,
Page 93.
An interesting announcement comes from Boston that the log-book of
"
Paul Jones,.
the
Ranger," which was commanded by Captain John
PAUL JONES.
has just been discovered in that

The log-book is almost entirely
city.
handwriting of the famous privateer, and forms a most valuable
addition to the few relics now
such
existing of the man who
in the
wrought
damage to British commerce during the War of Independence.

The name of John Jack, great grandfather of
Captain Thomas
Jack, has been accidentally omitted from the
list
of fishers taken.
Page J 12. CRIMEAN WAR. The only Crimean veteran that the
town can boast of is an old man named John M'Dowell, who was born
in Back Lane or Lancasterian
He joined
Street, eighty-four years ago.
the ist Battalion ist Royal Foot, now known as the
Royal Scots
Infantry Regiment, seventy years ago at Edinburgh Castle, where his
father, Robert M'Dowell, was then stationed.
John M'Dowell landed
at the Crimea on September i4th, and took part in the famous battle
of Alma on September 2oth, 1854, was in the thick of the
fight at
Inkerman on the i5th of November, same year. He was also through
the siege of Sevastopol, which lasted ten months.
John M'Dowell served his Queen and Country twenty-five years,
and was rewarded by the Government with a pension of one shilling a
Four or five years ago he received out of a fund an additional
day.
sum
of sixpence a day.
116.
MEDICAL DOCTORS. Dr. George Forsythe was
medical officer of the Carrickfergus Dispensary District to Her
His nephew, Dr. W. H. Patrick, succeeded him (I
Majesty's Forces.
believe), and at his death Dr. Josias Patrick, who died January 2nd,
and
was
succeeded
1891,
by Dr. W. R. A. M'Alister (born at Annsboro*
Dr.
House, Lurgan), who died March i3th, 1896, aged 39 years.
A. B. Frances was the next, and at present Dr. Samuel Killen.
Page 124. QUEEN VICTORIA'S JUBILEE. In 1887, the year
Page
the Jubilee of Her Majesty Queen Victoria, the High Sheriff,

Robert MacMurray, Esq., J.P., received the following reply to the
Address of the Grand Jury of the County of the Town of Carrickfergus
"
of
SIR,
have had the honour to lay before the Queen the loyal and
I
dutiful address of the High Sheriff and Grand Jury of the County of
the Town of Carrickfergus, on the occasion of Her Majesty attaining
the fiftieth year of her reign, and I have to inform you that Her
Majesty was pleased to receive same very graciously.
I
am,
Sir,
your obedient servant,
of
the
County
CRASS.
To
the
High
Sheriff
of
the
Town
of
Carrickfergus,
Ireland."
HIGH CONSTABLE.
Owing to the Local Government

Act the position of High Constable has been abolished. The collection
of county cess and the rates now known as poor rates are paid together.
The last High Constable of Carrickfergus was the late James Whiteford.
He died August igth, 1904; was an engineer
Esq., of Prospect House.
and surveyor for the estates of the Marquis of Downshire. His sons
are David G. Whiteford, Esq., Prospect, and J. W. Whiteford, Esq.
Page
127.
COUNCILLORS. The present Urban

James Blackburne, William Byrtt, John
Cameron, John Campbell, James Ferry, Alexander Hay, John Hilditch.
William H. Howe, Thomas Jack, Daniel Lawlor, Charles M. Legg.
Thomas Mitchell, Samuel M'Allister, Henry M'Cavana, James L.
Thomas
M'Ferran, John Patterson, Francis W. Wisnom Chairman,
URBAN
Page
Councillors,
129.
1909,
are
The
to
above are also
Harbour Commissioners.
James Boyd, Clerk
Council and Commissioners.
ROYAL IRISH CONSTABULARY. Up
till
1901
Page 133.
district of the
Carrickfergus was the headquarters of the Carrickfergus
John Montgomery was District Inspector

number of years he removed to Raphoe, May, 1859. Op
Scott was Inspector, when he was promoted to a County
Royal Irish Constabulary.

for a great
to 1888 Mr.
W. Leathern
1888,
July,
District-Inspector C.
command of the Carrickfergus Constabulary District.
The number of men at this time in Carrickfergus were one officer and
ten men at present, one officer and six men.
In
Inspectorship.
took
over
;
EDWARD KEAN.
Page
134.
to Carrickfergus
Edward Kean,
the actor,
paid a
about the end of September, 1805.

in Belfast, and it appears that Mr. Atkins (I
suppose the manager of the Belfast Theatre) closed suddenly and left
visit
The company was
all in distress, when they went down to Carrickfergus.

had commenced and they could hire no room, but the
gaoler, pitying their forlorn case, got them the Court-House, after the
court was over, and as there was a great number of convicts, he gave
them leave to attend. The rapture and applause of the poor wretches
mingled with the rattling of their manacles and fetters was not soon
forgotten by the company.
CEMETERIES. The Victoria Cemetery, Victoria
Page 135.
Road, was provided by the Urban District Council, acting as a Burial
Board, at a cost of ^2,500, and is in their custody. ^Ji,ooo of the cost
of this cemetery was defrayed by Mr. Hugh G. Legg, of Carrickfergus
and Capetown.
The other cemeteries in Carrickfergus are St. Nicholas' Churchyard
and North Road Cemeteries, both of which are under the custody of
St. Nicholas' Parish Church, and the Roman Catholic Cemeteries at
Minorca and Prospect.
the
company
The
assizes
CHALICE. A number of years ago the Rev. \Y.

Page 160.
Dempsey, P.P., of Carrickfergus, and now of Downpatrick, bought in
Dublin a Chalice on which is the following inscription in Latin
" Paulus O'Neill curavit
Paul
pro Conventu Cragfergus fieri, 1631."
O'Neill was prior of the Franciscan Convent, and the date on the
This is the only link of connection between the
Chalice is 1631.
parish now and then of Catholic times, and of the old Convent of the
Franciscans, on the site of which was built the County Antrim Jail.
Page 167. ALBERT ROAD. The Albert Road from St. Bride's
Street, North Road, in the form of a half circle, to the end of West
:
was made about 1850-56. In a notice regarding the improve" that several houses are
ments made in the town it is stated
being
built on the Albert Road (1865), in addition to those of Messrs. Wm.
Gorman and John Kane, by Mr. David Pasley and Mr. Henry Laverty. "
Carrickfergus Freeman.
The Horse Barrack in Irish Quarter was probably built in the
summer of 1703, as on the 3rd of May, that year, Richard Kane made
a deed of that plot of ground (132 feet in front to the road), to His
About 1749 the Barrack was destroyed by an
Majesty, for 999 years.
and in 1754 a survey was made for the purpose of its
accidental fire
the estimate was ^3,071 IDS.
being rebuilt
Page 205. ALMS PLATES. About 1878 Mrs. Robert MacMurray,
then residing at Glynpark, presented the Alms Plates to the Church of
The Rev. George Bull, Dean.
St. Nicholas.
GARRISONS IN CASTLE. Detachments of the
Page 227.
different regiments have garrisoned the Castle in the annexed years
The Forfar and Kincardine Artillery Militia.
1857, December.
A detachment of the I4th Regiment.
1876.
The gist Argyleshire Highlanders, under command of
1877, May.
Lieutenant Tottenham.
The iO4th Bengal Fusiliers.
1879, February.
The Princess of Wales' Own Regiment.
1881.
Street,
5"
1
The Welsh Regiment.

The Enniskilling Fusiliers.
882.
1883.
1885.
1888.
2nd Brigade North-Irish Division Royal
The Queen's Regiment.

The Black Watch.
Artillery.
1890.
Lancashire Fusiliers.
1891.
2nd Battalion Royal Irish Rifles.
1900.
Since this year the staff of the Antrim Roval Garrison Artillery
1901.
Rifle Brigade.
In 1862 the fixtures of the old County Antrim Court-house were
removed and the spacious halls fitted up with barrack furniture. This
Court-house is now the headquarters of the above Rifle Brigade.
COMMONS AND OTHER
Page 303.
rent of the Commons
is
LANDS.
The
present
32$-
See pages 112-114, Sale of the Lands.

Lands taken by the Belfast and District Water Commissioners,
page 316; valuation, page 321.
ESTATE OF THE MARQUIS OF DOWNSHIRE.

of the Marquis of Downshire comprises
The Carrickfergus Estate

-a
total
area of 6,506 statute acres.

contains 675 acres, the Middle Division
The North East Division

1,694 acres, the West Division
1,660, and the County Antrim or Straid

1,250 acres.
All the agricultural holdings held under judicial tenancies have
been sold to the tenants under the provisions of the Land Purchase
Act at a reduction of 20 per cent on their second term rents, and a
year's rent in each case was added to the purchase money.
The Commons, containing 319 acres, were also sold under the
provisions of the Land Purchase Acts to David G. Whiteford, Esq.,
Estates
the remaining
Prospect, Carrickfergus
by the Belfast Water Commissioners for
The rent paid by Lord Downshire
Council is ^52 195. 2d.
ESTATE OF THE EARL OF
;
portion having been acquired

the purposes of their scheme.
to the Carrickfergus Urban
SHAFTESBURY.
The Carrickfergus
Estate of the Earl of Shaftesbury comprised a

total area of 2,977 acres, the greater part of which is now sold to the
tenants, with the help and through the medium of the Irish Land
Commission.
The number of acres in the West Division were 438 acres 2 roods
9 perches, Greenisland (part of which is now sold) Scoutbush, 273
acres 2 roods 7 perches
Knockagh, 334 acres 2 roods 34 perches
;
roods 17 perches
Lisnabroghan,
(sold)
Trooper's Lane,
My Lord's Mountain, 284 acres 2
45 acres i rood 16 perches (sold)
Straidnahanna (No. i), 428 acres 34 perches
roods 28 perches (sold)
Straidnahanna (No. 2), 207 acres 3 roods i perch (sold). North
(sold)
East Division, 220 acres i rood 31 perches; Boneybefore, 216 acres
2 roods 27 perches (sold); Marshallstown, 227 acres, 2 roods 16 perches
299 acres 2
The Rea
(sold).
hill
is
also
sold.
April, 1909, Lord Shaftesbury

12 a
purchase of the head rent of
Carrickfergus Estate.
In
paid a sum of
year for all the
^336
for
lands of
the
the
NOTICES OF THE FIRST BOARD OF MUNICIPAL

COMMISSIONERS.
ELECTED NOVEMBER,
Peter Kirk, M.P., D.L., J.P., Thornfield.
1843.
(See notice of
John Legg, Glynpark, was High Sheriff.

where
James Barnett^ distiller and grain merchant,
quay are, was High Sheriff in 1853.
the
High
Sheriff.)
salt
pans at
5 22
Russel
Ker Bowman
was a grocer
and. spirit
merchant
in
Market
Place.
John Coats, J.P., born at Carrickfergus, 1805, was Secretary to the

Grand Jury of County Antrim until he retired in 1880 died in
;
1896.
Paul Logan was a shipowner he resided at the Knockagh.

John M'Gowan was a medical doctor in High Street.
Samuel Davis Stewart was a shipowner and a slate and timber
merchant.
William Walker resided at the Knockagh
he was proprietor of a
spinning mill, now known as Joymount Bleach Works.
Wm. Burleigh was a Justice of the Peace, and resided in the Scotch
Quarter was High Sheriff, 1844.
Daniel Blair was a grocer and woollen draper.
Richard Battersby resided at Oakfield he was a member of the family
of that name who were in the provision trade in Ann Street,
His brother was curate of the Parish Church, Carnmoney.
Belfast.
James Cowan was proprietor of the Barn Mills he was the father of
the famous novelist, Mrs. J. K. Riddel.
Alexander Johns was a storekeeper in the Castle, and was superannuated
in 1834
he was the first manager of the Northern Bank, Carrick;
fergus.
William Kirk Martin was a medical doctor
he had a property near

;
Bridge.
Stephen Richard Rice, High Sheriff 1849, was a Captain in the Antrim
It is probable he
Artillery and resided in the Scotch Quarter.
might have been a grandson of Stephen Rice, who was a Captain
in the Carrickfergus Royalists in 1784.
Richard Thompson was a wine and spirit merchant, and resided at the
Woodburn
Mount.
James Wilson was a flour and meal miller he resided at Millmount.
Chairman, William Burleigh.
he was a grandson of Henry Ellis, of
Treasurer, Henry Adair
of
Prospect, and Thomas Benjamin Adair, of Loughanmore, Mayor
;
Carrickfergus,
1832.
Harbour Master, James Stannus, Jun. he was a

of Anthony Carey Stannus, the well-known
;
painter.
Ballast Master, Alexander Jones
Gate.
he was a
spirit
and father
and portrait
builder,
artist
merchant at Quay
CRAIG. The following are some extracts from

Page 432.
BELFAST NEWS-LETTER, March i7th, 1807
" To the
of
Mayor, Aldermen, Burgesses, Freemen, and Freeholders
the County of the Town of Carrickfergus.
Lord Spencer Chichester having thought proper to vacate the
trust which you lately reposed in him, I beg leave to offer you my
invariable object t
services, and' to assure you that it shall be my
merit your approbation, by a steady adherence to the welfare of my
the interest and independence
country, and by a particular attention to
:
of our ancient Corporation.

I
have the honour

Gentlemen,
to
be,
humble servant,
JAMES CRAIG."
Extract from the BELFAST NEWS-LETTER, Friday, April 10, 1807
" CARRICKFERGUS ELECTION.
:At the final close of the poll on Tuesday last the numbers were
...
359
For James Craig, Esq.
...
3 l8
For Edward May, Esq.
Your
faithful,
Majority in favour of Mr. Craig
41
523
Mr. Craig was, therefore, declared
duly elected, and was conducted
from the hustings to an elegantly-decorated
triumphal car, and drawn
through the principal streets by a band of the electors, preceded by a
band of music, composed of private
gentlemen, accompanied by "the
most respectable inhabitants of the town and
neighbourhood, amidst the
reiterated acclamations of
surrounding multitudes."
Extract from BELFAST NEWS-LETTER,

April 10, 1807
the Mayor, Aldermen, Burgesses, Freemen, and Freeholders of
the County of the Town of
Carrickfergus.
Gentlemen
The high honour you have conferred upon me by
choosing me your Representative in Parliament demands my warmest
To be placed in that important position by so
acknowledgements.
respectable a body of men as the free and independent Electors of
is
a
distinction
too gratifying to be ever erased from
Carrickfergus
my
memory. My gratitude shall be best evinced by an unremitting attention
to your interests, and a faithful
of
discharge
my duty.
To the Sheriffs I return my thanks for their impartial conduct
during the poll.
I have the honour to
remain,
Gentlemen,
Your obliged and devoted servant,
"
To
"
JAMES CRAIG."
Scoutbush House,
8th April, 1807."
ANECDOTES OF OLD CARRICKFERGUS.

The
following, taken from a little book, "Waifs of Conversation,"

"
published in 1876, may be of interest as a reminder of the
good old times :"
TALLY-HO AND THE DEAN. "Tally-ho !" This was a name given
one of the Sheriffs of Carrickfergus, which, in the good old times when
had the honour of being governed by a Mayor, had no less than two High
He was a remarkable man in several ways, but one thing in
Sheriffs.
particular for which he was noted was his frequent repetition of the
He was a jolly-looking man; his
words, "Ho! ho! Tally-ho!"
rather red
and looking redder, perhaps in contrast with the
face,
flaxen wig worn in ihe fashion of his day.
A great banquet was given in
honour of a Lord Lieutenant who visited the ancient town. After dinner,
toasts of course were given.
The Sheriff was permitted to give one, and when
glasses were charged, he rose and said, "Mr. Mayor, here's to the devil."
Everybody of course was astonished, if not shocked. The president very
properly asked why he should propose such a toast. There was a Dean at the
" that he did it to
table, and the Sheriff immediately replied
please the
Dean." The Dean, shocked as he must have been before, was now indignant,
and asked how it was possible that the Sheriff could suppose it would be
The Sheriff, no way abashed, jumped
pleasing to him to hear such a toast.
" Ho ho
to his feet and said,
Tally-ho no devil, no dean no devil, no
"
dean
MERMAID OR MAYOR MADE. About fifty years ago the authentic rumour
went out that a mermaid was to be seen at Carrickfergus, and people in
to
it
multitudes flocked to the strange exhibition.

Amongst others a learned
doctor, crazed about curiosities, went down, but with the public in general was
doomed to disappointment. The excitement, however, induced the enterdecircumttance.
prising manager of the theatre in Belfast to produce it as Apiece
The notabilities of the town "Cocky Bendy," "Herring Jamie," and the
were introduced ; and so good was the
rest, and among them the doctor
his hands,
make-up that his brother, who was present, jumped up, clapped
"
Well, if that's
and with an asservation more forcible than polite, exclaimed,
not
my brother, the doctor, on the stage." The whole affair

there having been a Mayor made in Carrick.
was suggested by
THE MAYOR AND THE CANDLES. Some half century ago the arrival of
the Judges in assize towns was a matter of considerable uncertainty.
There
were then no telegraph messages flashed along the wires with intelligence of
the departure of their Lordships from one assize town, and signifying their
arrival in the next.
The civil and legal dignitaries of old Carrick were accordOn one such occasion after waiting
ingly, at times, kept in much suspense.
until twilight had set in, and expectation of the arrival of the Judges had been
given up, the Mayor and Sheriffs were doffing their robes of office, and the
halberdiers were laying aside their halberts, cocked hats, and long cloaks for
the night, when a swift messenger arrived to announce the immediate approach
of their Lordships.
In due time, and with accustomed pomp, the Judge took
his seat on the Bench ; the Mayor, Sir William
his chartered
, exercised
privilege of sitting on his right; the Sheriffs took up their less dignified
position in their box, and Johnny Mulholland, the chief halberdier, acting as
The Court was hushed in respectcrier, stood at his post on the witness table.
ful silence, and the decreasing remains of
daylight added something almost of
solemnity to the situation. The Courthouse was anything but bright, even at
mid-day, but now in the dark shade of twilight it was found necessary to have
artificial light to permit the King's Commission being read.
There was in
those times no gas, and it was now discovered that no light had been provided.
The Mayor, reproaching himself for his want of forethought, sought to
remedy it, and remembering the close proximity of Bob Willis's chandlery,
broke the prevailing silence, saying, "Johnny, run over to Bob's for two
" Indeed, Sir William
penny candles for the Court," but Johnny replied,
"
I needn't, for he
says the last you got you never paid for.
THE SHERIFF'S DILEMMA. In the last century the High Sheriff for the
County of Antrim one year chanced to be a very simple-minded man full of the
Among the other
dignity of the office, and anxious to do everything correctly.
arrangements he learned it was necessary to have a man to play the National
Anthem when the Judge proceeded to the Courthouse, a trumpet being the
few days before the assizes he proceeded to make the

proper instrument.
proper arrangements for that part of the ceremonies, and found to his dismay
that the only trumpeter in Carrickfergus had passed away, and no successor
could be found.
Ultimately, as the only substitute he could procure, he
engaged a piper and fiddler to precede his Lordship playing, no doubt to the
best of their ability, the National Anthem, but with such effect that when the
Judge was seated on the Bench he called the Sheriff before him, and in place
of eulogizing the music and returning thanks for his successful endeavours, he,
" Mr.
in an indignant manner, said
Sheriff, in consequence of the disrespect
you have manifested towards the representative of His Majesty, and the slight
thus exhibited in your substitute for the usual trumpeter, I will fine you
$o."
The poor fellow was unable to utter a word in either defence or excuse but
some friend, who knew the Judge and had learned the cirumstances, explained
the matter probably at or after dinner
and caused a hearty laugh. The fine
was remitted.
JOHN WAS HUFFED. In the olden time a woman went to visit her
husband, who was lying in Carrickfergus Jail, and had been condemned to be
hanged upon the following day. The doomed man began to give his last
;
instructions to his wife preparatory to bidding her farewell, when all at once she
the by, John, whaur
in upon the conversation, and exclaimed
"
The unfortunate man, as may be imagined,
will I plant the tatties this year ?
grew exceedingly indignant at the indifference of his wife, and exclaimed
"What need I care whaur ye plant them ? I'm no likely to need ony
angrily
"
o' them."
Ilech," replied the woman, turning to the warder with a wag of
" oor
huffed because he's gaun to be hanged in the morn,"
the head ;
"By
broke
and marched
John's
out of the
cell.
525
[THE BKLUUNGE*. Deafy M'Kee, the Carrickfergus bellringer, lived in

M'Kee was stone deaf, and on all occasions carried the
Lancasterian Street.
by the tongue. This was accounted for by the fact that on one occasion a
had extracted the tongue of the bell, and M'Kee, after
spending some
hours in parading the streets and
crying his notices, found that he had been
spending his time and energy in ringing a tongueless bell.]
bell
local wit
The old bell is still used by fishermen when a

cargo of fish is in the
harbour.
A man is paid by the hour to go round all the
streets of the town
calling "herrin' in the harbour."
BIOGRAPHY.
EMINENT PERSONS.
M'SKIMIX.
Samuel M'Skimin, the Historian
of
Carrickfergui,
was born in the year 1775, in the neighbourhood of Ballyclare, County

Antrim.
Early in life he settled in Carrickfergus, and carried on the
business of a grocer in the Irish Quarter.
In his youth he had a
remarkable taste for reading and what is not so usual in childhood,
had a memory peculiarly retentive of whatever knowledge he derived,
either from books or from conversation.
On one occasion, after having earned and saved the price of a pair
of brogues, he renounced all thoughts of them, resolved to go barefoot
through the winter, and devoted his hoarded treasure to the purchase
of a book, on which he had set his heart.
There was, about the year 1792, in the neighbourhood of Ballyclare, a club of men who had joined together for the purpose of taking
some reviews of the day. After their example, Samuel M'Skimin and
a few other boys joined together for a similar purpose. They could not
and to
afford much, their contributions were i jd. per month each
" Eckshaw's
the last day of his life he preserved the numbers of
Magazine," which fell to his lot at the annual distributions.
In 1797, after some attempts which he had reason to think were
meditated upon his life, he suddenly left Ballyclare and came to
Carrickfergus. The folly of such attempts was soon discovered and in
three months from the time of his leaving Ballyclare he was able to go
in perfect safety among the very people who had meditated his death.
I may here take this opportunity of contradicting a statement in
" United
a letter of James Hope's to Dr. Madden, published in Madden 's
Irishmen
Irishmen," as to Samuel M'Skimin's hatred of the United
" Ramble to
and his reason for leaving Ballyclare. In a sketch of a
M'Skimin and a friend (Belfast Magazine,
Antrim," taken by Samuel
" \Ve came in
sight of Ballyclare; at sight of
July, 1808), he says:
this small town,
'
Remembrance wak'd with all her busy train.'
and upwards of eleven years had elapsed since
native
It was
;
'
my
place,
could not pass the little bridge, as

1
slander had driven me hence.
t
vou enter the town from Belfast, without halting. I leaned against
a melancholy cast to me every
range wall the sight gave my mind
reminded me of some juvenile amuseobject was interesting every look
ment at mv feet was the place where I had whipped the top beneath
was
was the litt'le pool where I used to snare trout and eel close by
and a
childish plays
the hawthorn hedge, where oft I had made my
b
is
few perches distant was my native cot (on this site, I believe,
526
the Ollardale Hotel)
following lines
the scene affected me,
and was productive of the
Hail
little
stream,
still
to
me
dear
Here memory presents to view

Those happy scenes, which on thy banks
In youthful innocence I knew.
On yonder green, when school let loose

The village youth to sport and play,
The noisy groups oft, oft I join'd
In rural sport at close of day.
Beneath yon hedge
oft
have
sat,
With others, making noisy glee

The trees, the slopes, that's hereabout,
As old acquaintance here I see.
I see the cot where first I drew
The vital air in of this day,
And may
;
Whose
....
slander forc'd
me
hence to stray.
Here years rolled by most unperceived,

Free from all care, in thoughtless ease
My pastimes now, though more refined,
Have not the charm, alas to please.
Corroding care now fills my breast

Yet when sweet hope does lend a gleam,
;
And earthly joys present to view,

The scene is ever by thy stream.
My comrade, who sat patiently while I took down
the above lines, now

our journey.
I
arose, not without emotion, and
we resolved to take the upper road by Doagh to Antrim."
On his recovery from a severe illness he endeavoured to turn to
good account the stores of learning that he had accumulated^/His
first publication was an essay on Carrickfergus,
which appeared in
1808 in the Belfast Monthly Magazine and the Cyclopcedian Magazine.
"
"
The first edition of the
appeared in 1811
History of Carrickfergus
A second
as a small i2mo. volume, printed by Hugh Kirk, Belfast.
edition, much enlarged, was printed by Joseph Smith in 1823, and a
third in 1829.
Some Addenda were printed in 1833, and an Appendix
urged
in
to
renew
1839.
He communicated articles to the Gentleman's Magazine : one on

"Extinct Birds," another on the "Round Towers."
In Frazer's
Magazine appeared an article of his on "The Insurrection of 1803."
He also contributed to the Dublin Penny journal, the Northern Whig,
and interleaved a copy of
the Belfast Magazine, and other papers
"
Harris's
County of Down," thus adding a mass of most valuable
materials, intended, no doubt, for a second edition of that rare and
valuable work.
The late Rev.
Macllwaine, D.D., Incumbent of
St. George's Church, Belfast, possessed this precious collection, besides
/
which he collected a good deal of material relative to 1798, which hasS
;
been republished
in
1906.
Samuel M'Skimin was probably an only son, as there is no record *

His father, Samuel M'Skimin,
of the death of any brother or sister.
died in November, 1808, aged 54 years, and his mother, Nancy, in
* All records of the
Ballyclare Unitarian Church prior to 1839 have
The Secretary, Mr. Ledlie, brother to Mr. Ledlie of the
disappeared.
Bank Buildings, Belfast, left about 1860, taking all congregational
documents with him. His widow went to reside in Cork.
527
At the age of 27 he married
May, 1820, aged So years.
Nancy
Goodacre (April 4 th, 1802), by whom he had six children.
James
to
emigrated
Quebec, and Elizabeth was married in 1837 to Hugh
Catherwood, Knockagh, and died August ibth, 1893, aged 73 years.
Of the eleven children born of this marriage two sons and three
daughters are alive, and numerous grandchildren.
Samuel M'Skimin died February 2ist, 1843, and was interred in
St. Nicholas's Churchyard.
His collection of MSS. and books were
sold, the most curious, an annotated copy of the
Autobiography of
Newell, the informer, came into Dr. R. R. Madden 's possession, who
"
United Irishmen."
published it in the second edition of his
KANE. Colonel Richard Kane was the son of Richard Kane,
Town Clerk of Carrickfergus. At an early age he embraced a military
life, and distinguished himself at the memorable Siege of
In
Derry.
1720 he commanded at Gibraltar; and there sustained an eight months'
He died in the Government of Minorca,
siege by the Spaniards.
December loth, 1736, and was buried in the Castle of St.
Philip.
A monument is erected to his memory in Westminster Abbey, whereon
are inscribed the most striking passages of his life.
He' was the
author of a work entitled: "General Kane's Campaigns,"
giving an
account of the wars in which he had served in Ireland and Flanders.
In Hill's " MacDonnells of Antrim," Appendix, page 477, is a
copy
of the will of Colonel Kane, in which he leaves " Fifty Pounds Irish
to
the
Poore
of
the
will
is
dated
money
Carrickfergus ;"
May, 1733.
In an appendix to the will Col. Kane mentions the estate at Carrickfergus, and the lands of Carnaglass, on the north side of the town,
under a mortgage of ^30, which he paid off. This money Col. Kane
received as a fine from the Government of Ireland, in 1699, in
consideration of the lease of 999 years for a plot of ground on which
to build the Horse Barrack in the Irish Quarter.
See also mention
"
Life and Times," Vol. 2, page 381,
of Colonel Kane in
Calamy's
" True Blue
where he is described as a
Presbyterian from the North
of Ireland."
ANDREW
President of the United States. The

the
settlers
" and "Boneybefqre
" His English
Fairfront
Fairview.
called this hamlet
father, Andrew,
and his mother (whose maiden name was Elizabeth Hutchinson), lived
in a house close to the passage to the shore known as Magill's
The main road from Carrick to Eden did not run as
Crossing.
The walls of the old homestead were unfortunately
does now.
it
levelled to the ground when the railway line from Carrickfergus to
Andrew Jackson, his wife and three sons,
Larne was constructed.
Hugh, Robert, and a son named Andrew,* left Carrickfergus in the
year 1765 and settled in Warthaw, North Carolina, having landed at
Two years after Andrew
the city of Charlestown, South Carolina.
Jackson the elder died, and young Andrew grew into early manhood
in North Carolina, where he read law at Salisbury, and went soon
after his majority to Tennessee, and in due time made his home at
In 1797 he was
Nashville, where he was appointed public prosecutor.
appointed Senator for Tennessee, and some years after appointed MajorIn 1815 Genera! Jackson engaged in war against
General of Militia.
the British before New Orleans, and in 1829 was elected President of
His journey from his home near Nashville, known
the United States.
as the "Hermitage," to the federal capital was a succession of
On March 4th, 1833, he entered on his second term as
triumphs.
With the close of his second term his public career ended.
President.
parents of
JACKSON,
Andrew Jackson
"
*This Andrew
Andrew was born
is
lived at
supposed to have died, as another son named

1767, the United States claiming the
i5th March,
honour of his birthplace.
He
died in the year 1845.

In religion he was a strict Presbyterian.
Colonel Colyar's "Life and Times of Andrew Jackson."
From
SAMUEL ALLEN (page 397). Samuel Allen, M.D., and J.P. for
Co. Antrim, was son of (by his wife Frances, eldest daughter of James
Samuel Allen, a Justice of the Peace and a
Higginson, of Lisburn)
"
"
of the County of Antrim, of which County he
Deputy Governor
served as
High
Sheriff in 1790, being then resident at Allensbrook, in the
townland of Ballykeel, near Larne, a place now called Millbrook,

where he had a bleach green and a beetling engine.
He afterwardslived for a few years at Bellisle (leased to him), near Dervock, and
finally at Lisconnan, on an estate purchased by him, where he died
on the 4th May, 1820, aged 78 years, and was succeeded in the family
property by his said son, Samuel Allen, M.D., who died at the
same place on the gth October, 1835, aged 57 years, the estate then
devolving upon Henry Ellis Allen, his second son, by his wife Millicent
Mary, second daughter of the Rev. Conway Benning, LL.D., Archdeacon of Dromore, by Ann, otherwise Nancy, a daughter of Henry
Ellis, of Prospect.
Henry Ellis Allen (known among Latin scholars as
Henricus Alanus), dying at Kingstown, Co. Dublin, on the 6th of
November, 1874, aged 66 years, so much of the estate of the family
property as remained unsold became vested in his second son (by his
wife Jane, third daughter of John Rogan, of Kilkenny), viz., Samuel
Allen, LL.D., now if Lisconnan, near Dervock, J.P. and D.L. of the
County of Antrim, and its High Sheriff in 1886.
ADRAIN.
Robert Adrain, Mathematician, was born
in Carricktook part in the Rebellion of 1798,

Here he took to
the United States.
being wounded, and
teaching and eventually became Vice-Provost of the University of
of a couple of mathematical papers
Pennsylvania. "He was founder
"
and the " Mathematical Diary."
The Analyst
fergus, 3oth September,
1775.
fled to
He
REID.
Dr. James Seaton Reid,

Historian,
page 256. Rev.
brother of the Historian, was ordained minister of
Ramelton on the 8th December, 1806, and died loth February, 1838.
Edward
Reid,
of his sons, Edward Reid,

1867, and another Professor of
Belfast (James Seaton Reid).
One
Esq.,
was Mayor
Materia Medica
of
in
Londonderry in
Queen's College,
RIDDELL. Mrs. J. H. Riddell, born at the Barn, in 1832, was

a daughter of the late James Cowan, formerly High Sheriff, and was
a well-known writer of fiction.
The deceased author, Charlotte
Elizabeth Lawson (Cowan), who wrote under the name of Trafford,
married, in 1857, the late Mr. J. H. Riddell, grandson of Mr. Luke
In the following
Riddell, of Winson Green House, Staffordshire.
year she published her first book, entitled: "The Ruling Passion,"
and other works followed quickly. The "Rich Man's Daughter," the
In 1867 Mrs. Riddell became co-proprietor
last, was published in 1897.
and editor of "St. James's Magazine." For many years she lived at
Maidenhead, but removed to Houndslow in June, 1906, where she
died the following 24th of September, at the ripe age of 74 years.
STANNUS.
Anthony Carey Stannus, the Artist and painter of

was born at Carrickfergus, and was the third son of
James Stannus, builder and harbour master. Married December, 1878,
at St. Matthew's, Bayswater, London, Alice Trophy Keith, Kensington.
local
pictures,
CAMPBELL.
John Campbell, Esq., Greenisland, gave the

1883, to found a Scholarship in the
Royal Academical Institution for Model School boys of Carrickfergus
and Belfast.
This scholarship was to commemorate his year of
sum
1878.
of ;i,2oo,
Sheriffalty.
in
August,
529
Xtst of
u&0criber0.
Major-Gcneral Sir William Thompson, K.C.B., Loughanmorc

Co. Antrim, and 35 Hereford
Square, London, S.VV.
Adair, Rear- Admiral K. N., 9 Blythewood
Adair,
Square, Glasgow
Samuel, Esq., LL.D., J.P., D.L., Lisconnan, Dervock
Antrim. (2).
Allen, Robert M., Esq., Joymount, Carrickfergus.
Anderson, Sir Robert, Knt., Parkmount, Belfast.
Archibold, Thomas A., Esq., J.P. Hillmount, Carnmoney.
Baird, R. T. Wilson, Esq., Ollardale, Ballyclare.
Barren, James, Esq., The Dairy, Mallusk.
Belfast Municipal Library
(George Elliott, Chief Librarian).
Bell, James, Esq., High Street, Carrickfergus.
Blackburne, Henry, Esq., High Street, Carrickfergus. (2).
Blackwell, George G., Esq. (the late), Waterloo, Liverpool
Allen,
Black, Arthur, Esq., Bloomfield, Belfast.

Bourke, Robert, Esq., Belfast.
Boyd, James, Esq., Joymount, Carrickfergus. (3).
Boyde, James, Esq., Coolmain House, Monaghan.
Brennan, Captain W. A., Acreback, Ballycarry, Co. Antrim.
Brereton, Dr. R. W., St. Nicholas' Rectory, Carrickfergus.
Browne, J. C., Esq., Derryvolgie Avenue, Belfast.
Burney, Andrew, Esq., Mossgrove, Carnmoney.
Burney, A. G., Esq., Rockmount, Carnmoney.
Byrtt, William, Esq., North Street, Carrickfergus.
Campbell, A. Albert, Esq., 4 Waring Street, Belfast.
Campbell, Hugh, Esq., Cloughfern, Whiteabbey.
Campbell, John, Esq., Irish Quarter West, Carrickfergus.
Campbell, John, Esq., M.A., M.D., F.R.C.S. (England),
Co
Crescent
House, Belfast.
Campbell, Robert, Esq., Carrickfergus.
Campbell, R. Garrett, Esq., Coolgreine, Fortwilliam Park, Belfast.
Cambridge, Robert, Esq., High Street, Carrickfergus.
Carey, J. W., Esq., Brugh, Knockdene Park, Knock.
Carrey, Wm. Thomas, Esq., Governor's Place, Carrickfergus.
Carson, James, Esq., Irish Quarter West, Carrickfergus.
Carruth, James, Esq., Ballypallady, Doagh.
Carruth, Walter, Esq., J.P., Irish Quarter West, Carrickfergus.
Caters, Ezekiel, Esq., Irish Quarter West, Carrickfergus.
Catherwood, W. B., Esq., Dairy House, Ayrshire.
Catherwood, Samuel, Esq., Joymount, Carrickfergus.
Catherwood, David, Esq., Chambers Street, Belfast.
Catherwood, Hugh, Esq., Galston Road, Hornsby, N.S.W., Australia.
Chisholm, John, Esq., 82 Royal Avenue, Belfast.
Clarke, J. A., Esq., M.D., H'igh Street, Carrickfergus.
Close, Samuel P., Esq., C.E., A.R.H.A., Fodeen, Carrickfergus.
Cochrane, Robert, Esq., LL.D., F.S.A., &c., 17 Highfield Road,
Dublin.
Coates, Frederick, Esq., Glynpark, Carrickfergus.
Coates, Charles M., Esq., Brighton Road, Coulsdon, England.
Cunningham, H. H. B., Esq., M.D., F.R.C.S. (England), Firenzie.
Malone Park, Belfast.
Cuthbert, Rev. Alexander, B.A., Rocklands Manse, Carrickfergus.
Notts. (5).
Craig, Colonel James, J.P., Carlton Hall, Carlton-on-Trent,
Notts.
(5).
Craig, Hon. Mrs. Skeffington, Carlton Hall,
U.S.A.
Craig, James, Esq., Silverton, Oregon,
Craig, James, Esq., Glenwood, Carrickfergus.
35
53
Esq., 43 Garthland Drive, Glasgow.
Crymble, Hugh, Esq., Bailee, Downpatrick.
Dalway, Marriott Robert, Esq., J.P., D.L., Bellahill, Co. Antrim, and
Crystal, James,
Lome,
Victoria, Australia.
Davey, W. H., Esq., M.A., D.L., Greenholme, Carrickfergus.

Davey, Rev. Charles, B.A., Wellington Park, Belfast.
Davidson, \Y. M., Esq., Walinor, Anclcrsonstown, Belfast.
Davidson, James, Esq., Dublin.
Deans, Alexander, Esq., Corcooghan House, Moira.
Dobbs, A. E., Esq., D.L., J.P., Castle Dobbs, Carrickfergus.
Douglas, Hugh, Esq., Eden, Carrickfergus.
Downshire, The Most Noble the Marquis of, Hillsborough Castle.
Dundee, Isaac C., Esq., M.D., Carnmoney.
Dundee, Samuel, Esq. (the late). Cedar Avenue, Belfast.
Dudgeon, A. H., Esq., 22 William Street South, Belfast.
Eames, W. G., Esq., York Road, Belfast.
Echlin, John Godfrey, Esq., Ardquin, Portaferry, Co. Down.
Thomas,
Esq., Carrickfergus.
George, Esq., H.I.M.E., 131 Limestone Road, Belfast.
Elliot, John, Esq., Ravenhill Avenue, Belfast.
Ellis, William E., Esq., LL.D., Dublin.
(6).
Ellis, Alexander, Esq., Bank House, Ballycarry.
Fernville,
Jordanstown.
Erskine, Pakenham, Esq.,
Erskine, John, Esq. (the late), Hatfield, Carnmoney.
FenneU, W. J., Esq., Deramore Drive, Belfast.
Feeney, Thomas G., Esq., Castle Place, Carrickfergus.
Fletcher, Charles A., Esq., Annalore, Whiterock Road, Belfast.
Forrester, M., Esq., Helen's Bay, Belfast.
Forsythe, Alexander, R.S.M. (W.O.), Antrim Artillery, Carrickfergus
Fulton, J. C., Esq., Inver, Salisbury Avenue, Belfast.
Elliot,
Elliot,
Galway, Miss, Garfield Chambers, Belfast.

Gibson, Andrew, Esq., Queen's Square, Belfast.
Gibson, Samuel, Esq., J.P., Summer Hill, Dunmurry.
Gibson, Rev. J. W., M.A., The Manse, Andersonstown,
Belfast.
David, Esq., St. Bride's, Carrickfergus.

Gorman, William, Esq., J.P., Market Place, Carrickfergus.
Gorman, Richard, Esq., High Street, Carrickfergus.
Gourley, David, Esq., Hydepark.
Graham, James, Esq., Market Place, Carrickfergus.
Graham, Isaac, Esq., Northern Bank House, Carrickfergus.
Grant, Frederick, Esq., Water Office, Belfast.
Green, William, Esq., Collinward House, Whitewell.
Greeves, Mrs. E. M., Altona, Strandtown.
Greer, Thomas, Esq.. Seapark, Carrickfergus.
Giffin,
(2).
Hadden, J., Esq., Ballyclare.

Haggan, William, Esq., Belfast.
Hanna, Charles, Esq., Custom House, New York.
Hanna, James A., Esq., C.E., Holywood.
Hawthorn, Mrs. S., Green Street, Carrickfergus.
Hayes, George, Esa., North Street, Carrickfergus.
Hayes, John, Esq., Belfast.
Heathcrington, Andrew, Esq., Albert Road, Carrickfergus.
Henry, Rev. F. C.. P.P., Carrickfergus.
Henry, Professor R. H., Queen's University, Belfast.
Henderson, Sir James, Knt., D.L., J.P., Oakley House, Belfast.
Henderson, H. Trevor, Esq., Norwood Towers, Belfast.
Herdman, William, Esq., Knockagh, Greenisland.
Higgin, Miss, Rosganna, Kilroot.
Hilditch, John, Esq., Carrickfergus.
Hodkinson, William, Esq., Eden Vale, Carrickfergus. (2).
53'
Hodges, Figgis
&
Co., Ltd., Messrs., Dublin.
(4).
Houston Thomas, Esq., J.P.,

Ashley House, Carnmoney.
Holmes, L. Jackson, Esq., Antrim.
Howe, \V. H., Esq., M. P.S.I., West Street, Carrickfergus.
Hogg, Alexander, Esq., 13 Trinity Street, Belfast.
Hubert, Very Rev. Father, C.P., Holy Cross Monastery, Belfast.
Hutchmson, Joseph T., Esq., Franklin, Mass., U.S.A.
Jack, John, Esq., Joymount, Carrickfergus.
Jack, Captain Thomas, Joymount, Carrickfergus.
Jamison, W. B., Esq., Technical School, West Street, Carrickfergus.
Johnston, Charles, Esq., Scotch Quarter, Carrickfergus.

Kane, David, Esq., 169 Agnes Street, Belfast.
Kane, James, Esq., Dundonald.

Kelly, Stewart C., Esq., 37 Donegal! Street, Belfast.
Kelly, Robert, Esq., Seaview, Greenisland.
Kelly, William E., Esq., J.P., D.L., St. Helen's, Westport, Co.
Kennedy, Andrew, Esq., Whiteabbey.
Kennedy, David, Esq., Glencovit. Dundonald.
Killen, Dr. S., High Street, Carrickfergus.
Kirk. John, Esq., J.P., Antrim. (2).
Kirkcr, S. R., Esq., Bencoolen, Maryville Park, Belfast.
King's Inn Library, Henrietta Street, Dublin.
Knabenshue, Hon. S. S., Esq., Schomberg, Belmont Road,
Mayo.
Belfast.
12, 14 Cambridge Street, Belfast.

Laverty, James, Esq
Laverty, John, Esq., 12, 14 Cambridge Street, Belfast.
Laverty, William, Esq., Hopefield Avenue, Belfast.
(2).
Larkin, F. C., Esq., M.D., F.R.C.S. (England), 54 Rodney Street,
Liverpool.
Law, David, Esq., Carrickfergus.
Latimcr, Rev. W. T.. M.A., Eglish Manse, Dungannon.
Latimer, Rev. W. J., The Manse. Carnone.
Leckey, Miss, Beardville, Coleraine.
Legg, C. M., Esq., Carrickfergus.
Lepper, J. H., Esq., B.A., T.C.D., B.L., Rhanbuoy, Carrickfergus.
Lepper, R. S., Esq., Elsinore, Crawfordsburn.
Letts, Rev. Canon, M.A.. M.R.I. A.. Aghadcrg Glebe, Loughbrickland.
Co. Down.
Leeburn, John, Esq., Sandymount, Carnmoney.
Loughridge, J. C., Esq., M.D., Tober, Whitewell.
,
Logan, Robert, Esq., Carrickfergus.

S. S., Esq., Castle Lugg, Greenisland.
Linen Hall Library, Belfast, F. J. P. Burgoyne, Chief Librarian.
Lynn, Henry, Esq., Albany Cottage, Carrickfergus.
Lyon, Rev. James, Xorth Road, Carrickfergus.
Mann, William, Esq. (the late), High Street, Carrickfergus.
Manchester Free Library.
Mavers David, Esq., Belfast.
M.R.I. A., Bank Bu !dings. Belfast.
Milligan, S. F., Esq., J.P.,
Milliken, Robert. Esq.. 2b Woronzow Road, London, X.W.
Millar, James, Esq., J.P., Glenshcsk, Limestone Road, Belfast.
Minford, Rev. J. V., B.A., Joymount, Carrickfergus.
Mitchell! Captain Samuel, junr., Albert Road, Carrickfergus.
Miskimmin. James. Esq.. Glcnburn Park, Belfast.
Governor's Place, Carrickfergus.
Miscampbell, Alexander, Esq.,
Cranmore Avenue, Belfast.
Montgomery. John, Esq.. Arlington,
Mother well, David, Esq., Belfast.
Motherwell, William, Esq., Shaftesbury Avenue, Belfast.
Morrow, James, Esq., 19 Rosemount Gardens. Belfast.
Little,
Morrison,
W.
J.,
Esq.,
High
Street, Carrickfergus.
S. Temple, Salt Lake City.,
Moore, Lindsay D., Esq., 551
U.S.A.
532
Samuel, Esq. (the late), Mossley, Belfast.
Samuel, Esq., Lille.
John A., Esq., Chester Road, Halifax, England.
Hugh C., Esq., Castleton Avenue, Belfast.
Musgrave, Mrs., Trinity Street, Carrickfergus.
M'Alister, Edward, Esq., Irish Quarter West, Carrickfergus.
M'Alister, Samuel, Esq., Irish Quarter West, Carrickfergus.
M'Bride, H. J., Esq., J.P., Hydepark, Belfast.
M'Bretney, W. A. J., Esq., Haypark Avenue, Belfast.
M'Cartney, Thomas, Esq., West Street, Carrickfergus.
M'Cance, Captain Henry M., Mauricewood, Milton Bridge, Midlothian.
M'Cance, Stouppe, Esq., 6 Markham Square, Chelsea, London, S.W.
M'Cance, Colonel John, Knocknagoney, Co. Down.
M'Caughen, Joseph, Esq., J.P., Windmill Hill, Carrickfergus.
M'Calla, Wm., Esq., Victoria Street, Belfast.
M'Calmont, Colonel J. M., M.P., Magheramorne.
M'Cammond, Lieutenant-Colonel W. E. C., J.P., Innisfavle, Doncgall
Park, Belfast.
M'Cammond, Robert, Esq., Knockagh House.
M'Clean, C. E., Esq., Doon, Co. Galway.
M'Clelland, Thomas, Esq., 161 Randolph street, Chicago.
M'Cormack, Robert J., Esq., Holmsted, Marlborough Park North,
Murphy,
Murphy,
Murphy,
Murphy,
Belfast.
M'Combe, W. J., Esq., 85 Royal Avenue, Belfast.

M'Crum, John, Esq., Millbank, Templepatrick.
M'Crum, Joseph, Esq., Ballyvesey, Carnmoney.
M'Cracken, Wm. M'A., Esq., 2 Idrona Terrace, Blackrock, Dublin.

M'Cullough, James, Esq., Scotch Quarter, Carrickfergus.
M'Donald, Allan, Esq., LL.D., Glenarm, Co. Antrim.
M'Dowell, W. J., Esq., Brookfield, Carrickfergus.
M'Dowell, Thomas, Esq., Glenorcky, Knock, Belfast.
M'Ferran, Captain E. M. G., Williamstown House, Carbury, Kildare.
M'Ferran, J. L., Esq., Oakfield, Carrickfergus.
Esq., The Cabin, Carrickfergus.
Esq., Greenholme, Carrickfergus.
Esq., J.P., i Wellington Place.
Esq., 51 Royal Avenue.
M'Keown, Robert, Esq., Minorca Place, Carrickfergus.
M'Kelvey, David, Esq., J.P., 85 Royal Avenue, Belfast.
M'Kinney, W. F., Esq., Sentry Hill, Carnmoney.
M'Laughlin, W. H., Esq., J.P., Macedon, Belfast.
MacMurray, Robert, Esq., J.P., Lisburn Road, Brlfast.
M'Giffin, Richard,
7
illiam,
M'Giffin,
M'llroy, Archibald,
M'llwaine, Joseph,
M'Mannus, William,
Esq.,
Davis Street, Carrickfergus.
M'Meekin, George, Esq., Roughfort, Mallusk.

M'Neill, James, Esq., M.A., (the late), Campbell College,
Belfast.
R., Esq., Lifford, Co. Donegal.

Thomas, Esq., Dover Street, Belfast.
Robert, Esq., Kennet Place, Clifton Park, Belfast.
Miss, Joymount, Carrickfergus.
Neill, Thomas, Esq., Euston Square, London.
Orr, James, Esq., Summerville, Landscape Terrace, Belfast.
O'Donaghue, Joseph Albert, Esq., Route No. i, Box 116, Portland,
M'Nulty,
M'Veigh,
M'Quitty,
Naismith,
Oregon.
O'Neill, C., Esq., Cave Hill, Belfast.
Parrington, G., Esq., 52 Shaftesbury Avenue, Belfast.
Pasley, W. J., Esq., 82 Royal Avenue, Belfast.
Patterson, Robert, Esq., F.L.S., M.R.I.A., Glenbank, Holywood.

Patterson, W. H., Esq., M.R.I.A., Granard, Strandtown.
Patton, W. J., Esq., 39 Fitzroy Avenue, Belfast.
533
Peden, Andrew, Esq., Rickamore, Templepatrick.
Peden, John, Esq., Franklin, Mass., U.S.A.
Percy, James G., Esq., Seaforth, Carrickfergus.
Pinkerton, J. C., Esq., Belfast.
Pirrie, J. B., Esq., The Barn, Carrickfergus.
Policy, William T., Esq., 131 University Street, Belfast.
Porter, R. J., Esq., Silverdale, Greenisland.
Porter, J. A., Esq., Killeen, Fortwilliam Park, Belfast.
Porritt, W. J., Esq., Redhall, Ballycarry.
Presbyterian Historical Society of Ireland.
Reilly, George E., Esq., Woodburn Glen, Carrickfergus.
(2).
Robinson, John, Esq., The Flow, Cattogs, Comber.
Ross, Alexander, Esq., Fairview, Ballyclare.
Rowan, Miss, Scotch Quarter, Carrickfergus.
Rice, Thomas, Esq., 6 Townhall Street, Belfast.
Seeds, Robert, Esq., Glentilt, Cavehill Road, Belfast.
Shaftesbury, Right Hon. the Earl of, K.C.V.O., Belfast Castle.
Shaftesbury, the Countess of, Belfast Castle.
Shanks, James, Esq., Ballyflounder, Portaferry.
Shaw, Captain Robert, Albert Road, Carrickfergus.
Sloan, A. G., Esq., Ballyworken House, Portadown.
Sloan, Rev. Isaac, Dungannon.
Sterling, Thomas, Esq., J.P., Loughside, Greenisland.
Stewart, Rev. David, B.A., Cregagh, Belfast.
Stewart, Rev. John, B.A., Rathgar, Dublin.
Stewart, Samuel, Esq., Balfour Avenue, Belfast.
Stevenson, J. M'N., Esq., Castle Place, Carrickfergus.
Swanston, Wm., Esq., Erindale, Cliftonville Avenue, Belfast.
Taggart, Wm. D. R., Esq., C.E., Carrickfergus.
Taggart, Wm. H., Esq., Battenberg Street, Belfast.
Torrens, T. H., Esq., D.L., J.P., Edenmore, Whiteabbey.
Tomlinson, W. J. C., Esq., 17 Glandore Gardens, Belfast.
Turner, John, Esq., Clifton Street, Belfast.
Turner, William, Esq., Irish Quarter West, Carrickfergus.
Tuke, John, Esq., 26 Brogden Grove, Brooklands
Tyrrell, John, Esq., J.P., Antrim Road, Belfast.
Tyrell, Thos., Esq., Glengormley.
Verner, Henry, Esq., Bloomfield, Belfast.
Vint, Robert, Esq., Carrickfergus.
Vint, Thomas, Esq., Carrickfergus
Vint, William, Esq., Ballyduff, Carnmoney.
Ward, Isaac, Esq., 24 Camden Street, Belfast.
Wallingham, Miss L. A., Edenvale, Strandtown.
Waterworth, Rev. Hugh, M.A., Carnmoney.
Weatherup, Thomas D., Esq., Carrickfergus.
Weatherup, John, Esq., Carrickfergus.
Weatherup, James, Esq., Bayview, Carrickfergus. (2).
White, James, Esq., Albert Road, Carrickfergus.
\Yhiteford, David G., Esq., Prospect House, Carrickfergus.
Willis, Miss Elizabeth, Engracia, Malone Park, Belfast.
Wilson, John G. Hill, Esq., 143 Royal Avenue, Belfast.
Wilson, James, Esq., 21 Carlisle Street, Belfast.
Wilson, Rev. James, 60 Cliftonpark Avenue, Belfast.
Woods, H. S., Esq. (the late), Bank Buildings, Belfast.
Woodside, W. A., Esq., J.P., Castle Rocklands, Carrickfergus.
Wright, Edward Perceval, Esq., M.D., Trinity College, Dublin.
Young, John, Esq., Canning Street, Belfast.

Young, Right Hon. Robert M., P.C., J.P.,
Park, Belfast.
Young, Stewart, Esq., Carrickfergus.
Rathvarna.
(2).
Chichester
534
INDEX.
Abbeys,
162,
160,
154,
Cairns, 22, 368, 369.

Castles, Fergus, 214; Worraigh, 147,
t>
Sendall's,
171;
Lugg's,
371;
O'Neill's, 151; Savage's, b; Birket's,
295Castle made headquarters of Militia,
164.
Rev. William, 256.

Sir Robert, 40, 56, 256.
Rev. Patrick, 75, 76, 172, 235,
Adair,
251, 256.
William, 235.
family of, Appendix.
T. B., 290.
Agriculture, 322,
Aldermen, 405.
Alabaster, 308.
Constables of, 221, 223.

Governors, 223, 224.
326.
Catherwood,
Royal Soc.ety
of,
visits,
Chapels, 22, 214, 258.

Charters, 234, 238.
18
Churches, ancient, Franciscans,
Killyann, 165
Carnrassy, 165.
modern, St. Nicholas, 174
North Street, 211; Joymount, 212;
Unitarian, 212; Independent, 213;
Roman Catholic, 258; Methodist,
210; Baptist, 212.
Chichester, Sir John, 31.
Sir Arthur, 32.
family of. Appendix.
Clements, Henry, 418.
Clergymen, Episcopal, 245-247 Presby212,
terian,
248-257; Covenanters,
Roman
213;
257;
Independents,
Catholic,
213;
258-260;
Baptist,
Unitarian, 212; Methodist, 210.
Close, Rev. William, 257.
Clock, 205.
Clot worthy, family of. Appendix.
Coins, 372, 375 Coining, 372.
Coaches, 360.
Coastguards, 231.
Coal, in, 307.
Convent, 162.
Constabulary, 104.
136-
127,
1
Antrim, Earl of, 37, 49. 5
_
Court-house, 171.
171.
170,
158,
Jail,
Area, 171.
Argyle, Marquis
of,
Assembly, 264.
Assizes, attempts
to
54.
Arms, Coats of, 181.

Ards, Lord of, 57.
final
Bank,
106,
remove,
172.
Commission, 241.
359-
Barracks, 167, 225.

Basalt, 306.
Bauxite, 306.
Bells, 132, 350.
Belfast Strikes,
New
138.
at,
Jail
109.
Big Wind, 107.

Birds, 441, 448-
Blackwell, 360.
Boats, 360.
Boundaries, 435, 437Bows, Aereal, 102, 104,
105.
Edward, 424.
Brice,
Brickworks,
135.
Cooke, Dr., 108, 112.

County, length and breadth, 242.
Copeland Islands, 312, 313.
Bull Baiting, 207.

Burleigh, 429.
Burgesses, 405.
Bullworthy, family of, 415.
Bruce, King Robert, n, 13.
Edward,
death,
13
Commons,
crowned,
14
14.
Brechon Laws,
29,
287.
founded, S;
of,
Carrickfergus,
walled,
burnt by Scots, 17, 19, 23
incorporated, 242.
143
town
186.
Caves, 369.
Census, 168, 169, 171, 331, 332.
Chaine, Dean, 274.
Chamberlain, Rov. George, 247.
Append.x.
Allen, Samuel, M.D., 397.

Antiquities, 372.
Antiquarians,
in.
112,
114,
118,
203.
Court-house, 173.
Coroners, 237.
Coronation Celebrations, 134.
Covenants, 50, 61.
Craig, Si, 122, 132, 138, 206, 210, 238,
339.
34".
34*. 368-
family of.
Crannoges, 314.
Appendix.
535
Crossmary, 291.
Crymble, 420.
Curfew, 132.
Cuthbcrt, Rev. Alexander, 257.
Customs, let of, 153, 159; ;imoimt,
ibo
sale of,
Houston, Thomas, 130.

Horseman, Anthony, 417.
Industries, Appendix.
Island-Magee, Massacre, 41-47.
Iron Scats, 134.
159.
Custom-house, 152, 250; Seal of the

Custom Surveyors, John, King,
Customs, 230
6.
Paul, 91, 94.

Johnston, of Ballykilbeg, 115,
Jones,
230.
Customs,
old,
347,
356.
Joymount,
Dalraida,
Dahvay, family
of,
Davys, family
De Courcy, <>.
De Burgo, 15.
DC Lacys, 6, 7,
of,
Distilleries,
Appendix.
Appendix.
Disestablishment Bill,
Dobbs, family of, Appendix.
Dobbin, 422.
Downshire, Marquis of, address
Knockagh,
Down
Earl
first
of,
Ellis,
Earl
of,
arrives,
tradition
Fergus, King,
Fenianism, 114.
Fire Engine, 134.
23.
concerning,
French take Carrickfergus,

Freemen, 276-283.
Freemasonry, 127.
3.
Lyon,
Commons,
137.
213.
Si.
Feast, 266.
Salary, 267.
Market House,
173.
106.
Masonic Hall,
Members
Militia,
of
80,
127.
Parliament, 432-435.
84.
Gas, town first lighted by, 113.

Gaelic League, 137.
Gaol, 151, 170, 171, 190, Appendix.
Gallows' Green, 310, 319.
Gallows sold, 104.
Gill, Henry, 234, 235.
Governors, 224.
Monuments,
Mounts, 365.
Moneypenny,
Y., 212.
J.
184,
196.
129.
Monkstown Chapel,
4.
Monasteries, 147, 160.

Mutiny of Garrison, 61.
Municipal Act, 107.
Commissioners, 108.
Munroe, Robert, 48; surprises Belfast,
263.
164,
123.
Harbour Masters,
53
165.
Harbour Junction Railway,

Harbour,
114.
Downshire's,
296-309
of,
Rev. James,
Mint, 372.
Minford, Rev.
103,
307.
206.
Fullers Earth, 306.
Hospitals,
1:2.
Mayors, 409-430.
Fish, 317, 360.

Forts, 311.
Frosts, 79, 101, 102.
Franchise, riding the, 292, 437.
Guilds,
304,

Lifeboat, 129.
Lignaca, 315.
Limestone, 308.
Lisglass, 289.
Literary and Scientific Society,
Loughmourne, 314.
Emancipation Bill, 105.

Eminent Persons, 338, Appendix.
Essex,
158.
Church,
33-
Lepper,
Appendix.
of,
Division
3 02
224.
34.
family,
166,
Langford, Hercules, 413.

Lands,
Shaftesbury's,
Appendix.
201.
Duncru, 365, 373.

Eagle-wing,
155,
Larne and Stranraer Route,

to,
126.
of,
of,
Presbyterian
Kennedy's Works," 133.

King-Kerr, Dr., 132.
Kirk, Sir William, 95, 295.
8.
Marquis
Manor
"
359.
Survey, 295.
Donegall, funeral of
117.
154.
2.
273.
Hearts of Steel, 90.
Hill, Sir Moses, 411.
taken prisoner, 57.
122.
M'Calmont, 132.
M'Cance, family
of,
M'Comb, William,
Appendix.
108.
M'Donnell, 30, 37, 42, 46.
536
M'Ferran, Capt. Robert, no.
M'Gilmore, 18.
Railway,
Names
of Early Settlers, 154,

Humphrey, 413.
Nursing Association, 129.
158.
Norton,
110,
109,
360.
Rebellions, 97.
Rent, 295.
Red-hall, 31.
Recorders, 268.
Recreation Grounds,
127.
Rectory, 245.
Officers
of
Corporation,
fees
Re
of,
240,
Old Inhabitants, 335-337.

Orr, Execution of William, 96.
Orlands, 210.
Ormond, Duke of, 73.

Orangemen, 104.
Orange Processions, 180.
to rs
?.
2 45-
'
Religious Denominations, 334.

V
S^liRev" 3 James
Reid
"
'
Seaton
D D"
'
'
^/',. i
RivtfS
"' 3*7-
Koaas, 320
Roman Catholic troops, 37.
Council of he World, 124.
Club l6 4"
Rowi
Tricentenary of the defelt of
"f I33
ell
the Spanish Armada, 124.
Bicentenary of the landing of
the Prince of Orange at Torbay, 124. Saltmines, Appendix.
Hall, Lancasterian Street, 133; Salt, in.
Eden, 127; Knockagh, 127; Wood- Sailing Club, 114.
'
'
>
burn, 118.
Oysters, 361.
Sandbank, 312.
O'Haughan's Cave, 369.

O'Neill, Shane, 22.
Brian Ballagh, 25.
Brian M'Phellimy, 25.
School Attendance Committee, 232.

Scoutbush, 371.
Scots plunder the town, 19.
Hugh,
Schools,
25.
Con's escape, 34, 226.

Art Oge, 39.
Turlough Lynogh,
27.
161.
Papers (News), Freeman,
Seals, 35, 219, 230,

Seats of Principal
of,
65.
231.
Inhabitants,
3 1 9-
Sieges,
2.
12,
Shaw, Rev.
68.
S.
M., 258.
Shaftesbury, Earl of, 131.
Sheriffs, 409-430, Appendix.
'
Silver Oar, 261.

Societies, 233, 322, 330.
Soil,
35-
Springs, 310, 311.

Stones, 305.
Stewart, Rev. John, 251.
Rev s E -> 2I2
-
146.
Councillor, 376.
Straidland, 290.
Potato Famine, 109.

Printfields, 358.
Priests, list of, 258,
334.
330,
Sergeants at Mace, 273.

121; Ad-ver- Shields, Charles, 238.
User, 121.
Patriot Club, 80.
Paul, Rev. John, 257.
Peat, 308.
Picts, 4 370.
Pillory, 374.
Pipe Clay, 305.
Population, 171, 334.
Port-surveyors, 231.
Post Office, 359.
Police,
233,
Schomberg, Duke,
Seaver, Dean, 125.
Settlers,
Palace,
232,
259,
260.
Priory of Woodburn, 163.

Presbyterian ministers imprisoned, 60.
Bicentenary Year, 109.
Presbytery, First in Ireland, 49.
Quakers, 61.
Quay, 158, 232, Appendix.
Quarters, 167.
Querns, 376.
Queen Anne, death of, 77.
Victoria, death of, 132.
Dean 26 7Sword and Mace, 265.

Swift
Sword-bearers, 273.
Tanyards, 360.
Taxes, 321.
Tablets in Church, 179-199.
Technical School, 137.
Tenants, 438.
Tennison, Bishop, 336.
Thourot, 81-86.
Tokens, 375.
318,
537
Town
Court, 136.
Clerks, 272.
Chest, 284.
Walls,
Belfast,
145.
Wages, 327.
Water Sold,
Urns, 365.
murdered,
Union Hall and Museum,
15.
137.
Valuation of Lands, 321.

Vaults, 175, 191.
Victoria,
Queen, addresses to, 106,
124; arrives in the Lough, no.
Victoria Cemetery Consecrated, 135.
Visits of
115.
Act,
316.
Bailiffs, 273.
Wells, 219.
Weavers, 359.
Weather, prognostics of, 356, 358.

Wesley's Visits, 82.
White, Rev. James, 257.
Whales, 78.
William, King, 72.
Wilson, Ezekiel Davys, 376, 429.
Windmills, 143.
Witches, Carnmoney, 101.
Islandmagee, 73.
King John, 7.
King William, 72.
Prince and Princess of Wales William III. lands, 72.
(now King and Queen) and Prince Women's Suffrage, 122.
Albert Victor, 122.
Working Men's Institute,
Lord Wolseley, 125.
Woodburn Priory, 162.
Field-Marshal
Earl
Roberts,
127.
Marquis of Dufferin, 128.

General Sir George White,
Earl and Countess of Shaftes-
Glens,
316.
Stones
of,
Wood's Halfpence,
Young
V.C., 131.
bury,
Men's
133.
164.
Christian
138.
His Royal Highness the Duke Zadia Lifeboat,
126.
78.
132.
of Connaught,
126.
80.
Carrickfergus, 339.
Underground Passage, 174, 227.

Urban District Council, first, 129.
of,
104.
Trades, 333, 359.

Treasurers, 274.
Trooper's land, 304.
Tythes, 291.
Earl
Marquis of Salisbury,
Carnmoney, 84.
Volunteers,
and Quarters Numbered,
Ulster,
General Lord Grenfell, 136.
128.
Association,
ANNALS OF ULSTER
BY SAMUEL M'SKIMIN.
New
Notes by
Edition, with
few Copies
left.
Price,
BELFAST
E. J.
2/3
M'CRUM.
post free.
WILLIAM MULLAN & SON, DONEGALL

JAMES CLEELAND, ARTHUR
STREET.
PLACE.
20783
LIBRARY
CENTRAL UNIVERSITY San D.ego

University of California,
DATE DUE
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LIBRARY

HISTORY AND ANTIQUITIES

COUNTY OF THE TOWN

SURVEY OF SAID COUNTY.

of the brain, would we believe,

WITH NOTES AND APPENDIX.

ALL RIGHT* RESERVED.

MUI.LAN & SON, JAMES CI.EEI.AND,

DAVIDSON & M'CORMACK,

PREFACE TO NEW EDITION.

submitting a new edition of my great-grandfather's work

published, 97 years ago, many changes have taken place in

Papers in the Linen Hall Library, various newspapers published

in the text of the original work, neither has there

been any interference with the disposition of the notes. The

has been arranged into chapters, the ninth has been

solely responsible for both text

pages have been added to the text, as noted.

many additional pages.

Appendix were many additions for

text, also corrections.

and succeeding generations.

keep on record the times that are

has not been in vain.

studiously engaged in collecting materials for the

in a much more complete and enlarged

County of Antrim, have been carefully

as well as those of the

as well as those of the living, have

encouragement here; yet, "with little assistance from the learned,

be found to contain much new

matter to general readers, and not a

the lovers of historical inquiry, local topography, or antiquarian

MINISTERS OPPOSE THE COMMONWEALTH CONFINED IN CASTLE NOTE

His DEATH NOTE DUKE OF RUTLAND

Formation of the Royal Irish Constabulary

Orangemen Catholic Emancipation Bill Passed

This chapter and notes are additions to original work.

GREAT COMMONS VISIT OF CANADIAN ORANGEMEN FOUNDATION STONE

URBAN DISTRICT COUNCIL ELECTION OF COUNTY COUNCILLORS

KING-KERR DKATM OF OUEEN VICTORIA CURFEW Biir.i.

PRIORY OF \\"OODIU;RN HOSPITAL OF ST. BRIDGET NOTE BRIDE-WELL

Councillors ST. NICHOLAS

Harbour Masters TREASURERS

Xotices in Text, 282-28}.

XOTE CROPS XOTE

star are reproduced

from the old

showing Custom House.

SAMUEL McSuiMiN AND E. J. M'CRUM.

North Gate, Carrickfergus, photo, by A. R. Hogg ...

from the West Pier

The Old Gallows

Cloughnacarty (Castle Lugg), from

"The Three Sisters "

Joymount, from drawing in British Museum (J. \V. Carey),

Antrim Court-house, photo by

Plan of Carrickfergus, taken 1550

thanks are due to Sir James Henderson,