ABBEYKNOCKMOY

In 1868, the parish of Abbeyknockmoy contained the following places:

"ABBEYKNOCKMOY, a parish in the baronies of Clare and Tyaquin, in the county of Galway, province of Connaught, Ireland, 7 miles S.E. of Tuam. The native name of the place signifies "hill of slaughter." The Latin name of the abbey signifies "monastery of the hill of victory." Cathol O'Connor, named also Red Hand, King of Connaught, founded it after a battle with the English, in which he defeated them. Cistercian monks were called to it from the abbey of Boyle. In 1620 James I. granted it to the Blakes; from them it passed to the Forsters, in whose family it still continues. A few remains of the abbey exist. Sculptured capitals lie strewn about the churchyard. On the north wall may be seen the tomb of the founder, and some rude frescoes which appear to belong to the 13th century. They are considerably defaced and going to decay. There are about 600 acres of bog in the parish. The neighbourhood is supplied with water from a subterranean stream near the summit of Knockroe hill. The parish has a police station, and petty sessions are held. The living is a rectory united with Killererin, in the diocese of Tuam, Killala, and Achonry. Moyne and Abbey are the principal residences. Fairs are held on the 24th June, the 21st August, and the 1st November."

"NEWTOWN, a village in the parish of Abbeyknockmoy, in the barony of Tiaquin, county Galway, province of Connaught, Ireland, 6 miles S.W. of Newtown Bellew."

[Transcribed from The National Gazetteer of Great Britain and Ireland 1868]
by Colin Hinson ©2018