A Story of Walsh of the Mountain, background reference
A Story of Walsh of the Mountain
Supplemental Notes on a Possible Pedigree of Walsh of the Mountain
Howel son of Philip
Our story begins with Griffin fitz William, a younger son of William fitz Gerald of Carew Castle (Pembroke, Wales). Griffin was a brother of Raymond le Gros who was known for his prominent role during the initial military campaigns into Ireland in 1169-70. Raymond le Gros is cited by Giraldis Cambrensis as an uncle of a David Walensis, the Welshman, noted in the battle of Limerick, 1175. Griffin also took part in the early campaigns and was probably enfeoffed with the cantred of Cnoktoffre (Knocktopher, County Kilkenny) prior to the turn of the 13th century. He and his sons, Gilbert, Matthew and Raymond, were noted as barons of Knocktopher. A tradition states that one of Griffin's daughters (by some she was a daughter of Raymond le Gros) is said to have married a son of another invader, that is, Howell son of Philip Gualensi, the Welshman. Philip the Welshman is noted by Giraldis Cambrensis for his bravery in a naval battle in 1174. Howel was likely enfeoffed of lands in county Kilkenny and elsewhere, perhaps through his [apparent] father Philip and/or through his marriage. Where these lands were located is not clearly cited in the records but his descendants are claimed to be the Walsh of the Mountain family who later held their lands in the modern baronies of Knocktopher, Kells and Iverk.
In traditional genealogies Howel fitz Philip is stated to have built the Walsh family castle, named Castle Howel evidently after him. The castle itself was located just across the Knocktopher border in what is now the barony of Kells. Seemingly missing from the early records there is little known of Howel, although he is stated to have had a son named Griffin.
An interesting correlation may exist between this Howel and a man referred to as Howel (or Hoel) of Carrickbyrne (co. Wexford). The church and house of "Hoel of Karrothobren" are mentioned in Earl Richard Marshal's charter of the forest of Ross (ca. 1231-34), a charter connected with the Abbey of Dunbrody and which was witnessed by, among others, Matthew Fitz Griffin. Howel de Karcbren held 1/2 of a knight's fee as recorded in a feodary of 1247 at Carrickbyrne, late identified in the parish of Newbawn, barony of Bantry, co. Wexford. This property was held in knights fee by 'Howel son of Stephen' in 1324, and by the 'heir of Oliver Howell' circa 1425. In his book "Knights' Fees in Counties Wexford, Carlow and Kilkenny" (Dublin Stationery Office, 1950), Eric St. John Brooks makes the following observation,
"The name Howel, as Orpen points out, is preserved in the townland of Courtholye, where the castle and chapel (of Howel de Karcbren) are marked on the Ordnance Survey map. The family shows its Welsh origin in the name Howel. It was known in the first centuries after the Conquest by a patronymic: Howel son of Stephen, Oliver son of Howel &c. There is evidence that it was later represented by the well-known house of Walsh of the Mountain, for the ancestors of that house were the same Howels of the feodaries, and in Stuart days the Walshes of the Mountain held the (knight's) fee at Carrickbyrne. Walter Walsh late of Castlehowell, co. Kilkenny, died in 1619, seised of Courthoyle, and other places (named) in co. Wexford, containing 4 carucates of land, held of the King in chief by military service."
Griffin son of Howel
Howel fitz Philip is noted in Burke's Landed Gentry to have a son named Griffin, of which little is known. Burke suggests Griffin had a son named Howel. Griffin would have likely lived during the first part of the 13th century and there are no records that can be clearly attributed for him. The names Griffin and Galfridus (Geoffrey) le Waleis appear about the year 1260, however this was in reference to the Plea Rolls of county Cork.
A citation from a genealogical statement given to the Walsh de Serrant family of France notes, "Hale (Howel) had Griffith Walsh that built the great castle of Knocktopher and was married to great McDaniel's daughter from the north of Ireland. Said Griffin Walsh had Robert married to O'Connor's daughter from Connaught." Joseph Cyrillus Walsh, the author of a History of the Family of Walsh 1170-1690 (1925), disagrees with this statement and cites that it was likely Griffin's great-great grandson Geoffrey who possibly helped build Knocktopher castle for the Butlers (during the 14th century). He reasons that "Giffin," "renowned for deeds of prowess," who was "the son-in-law of O'Donnell of Ballyshannon", was this younger Geoffrey. He goes on to cite this Giffin (Geoffrey) as the one who "was married to the great McDaniel's daughter from the North of Ireland," and the one who was party to an "entermarriage with O'Daniel's daughter of Ballasanen," according to various traditional accounts.
There was however an earlier 'castle' built at Knocktoper. At Knocktopher a medieval borough grew up around the motte, probably constructed by Matthew Fitz Griffin, Seneschal, in the late twelfth century to control the crossing point of the Little Arrigle River. If the tradition were true that Griffin's father Howel married a daughter of Griffin Fitz William, then it could have been his father Howel, or one of his family, who participated with [his relative] Matthew in the construction of the motte style castle. Before the destruction of the motte, in 1973, it was described as 137 m. in diameter and 37 m. high.
Howel son of Griffin
As the lineage appears in Burke's Landed Gentry of Ireland, Griffin (above) had a son named Howel, and Howell had a son Nicholas Walsh, or Brenagh, of Castle Hoel. There are numerous references to the name Howell, without mention of surname, in the early Irish records. He may have been the Howel, son of Griffin, who was a witness about 1254 of a grant by Raymond son of Griffin, to the Priory of St. Mary's at Kells in Ossory, of the church of Kellistown in Forth, co. Carlow, as it was granted to them by charter by Raymond's [older] brother Matthew fitz Griffin. Matthew and Raymond are often cited as barons of Knocktopher, both identified as sons of Griffin FitzWilliam and, therefore, nephews of Raymond le Gros.
The name Howel Walshe appears in a later record (1373-74) in relation to his apparent descendant Geoffrey. As "Geoffrey, son of Thomas son of Nicholas son of Howel Walshe," he had received a quit-claim of lands in the Walsh Mountains from Walter son of Walter son of Oliver [Howel]. Eric St. John Brooks, in his book (Knights' Fees..., Dublin, 1950), alludes to Walter son of Walter son of Oliver Howel as a possible descended relative of the Howels of Carrickbyrne. It was the Oliver son of Howell fitz Stephen who in 1361 granted his lordship of 'Lotheran' in co. Kilkenny to Sir Raymond son of Robert Wallys, chaplain. It was the 'heir of Oliver Howell' who held the Carrickbyrne fee circa 1425.
Part of the reasoning Brooks uses seem to include the following records.
- In 1285-86, Stephen Howel and John son of Stephen occur both in co. Wexford and co. Kilkenny in the same connexion (Cal. Docs. Ire, iii, pp. 52, 95). Brooks inserts a comments here, "This is of interest as it helps to identify Stephen Howel as the ancestor of the Walshes of the Mountain, whose principal seat was Castlehale."
- About 1293 a Sir Stephen Howel witnessed two deeds relating to the transfer of Knocktopher, co. Kilkenny [Ormond Deeds, i. 302-303].
- Between 1294- 1302 Stephen Howel witnessed three de Tuluse charters to the Abbey of Dunbrody [co. Wexford) [Chart. of St. Mary's, ii.].
- In 1297 Howel son of Stephen occurs in a Kilkenny record [C.D.I., iii pp. 52, 95].
- In 1309 Howel fitz Stephen witnessed a grant in the tenement of Kilmoganny [Ormond Deeds, i. #440].
- In 1312 Howell Fitz Stephen witnessed the transfer of Knocktopher to the Butlers [ibid., i. 466-468].
- In 1315 Howell fitz Stephen, and Nicholas fitz Stephen, witnessed a de Baa grant in the tenement of Dengenmore, given at Kilkenny [ibid., i. 514].
- In 1324 Howel son of Stephen held 1/2 knights' fee at Carrykobren (Carrickbyrne) in co. Wexford [source: feodaries].
- In 1345 Nicholas fitz Stephen held lands near Rosbercon and New Ross [Ormond Deeds, i. 779].
- In 1346 Oliver Howel was a witness a de Bathe grant, given at Aghbillir (Aghaviller. co. Kilkenny) [ibid., i. 788-789].
- In 1355 Oliver Howel was appointed one of the sheriffs of county Kilkenny [Rot. Pat. 29th Edward III].
- In 1361 Oliver son of Howell son of Stephen had held the lordship of 'Lotheran' in co. Kilkenny [Ormond Deeds, ii. #76].
- In 1371 Walter son of Walter son of Oliver Howell transferred his Kilkenny possessions to "Geoffrey son of Nicholas Howel Walshe", a date which may indicate the period when the name Walsh was adopted by the family. [Knights' Fees counties Wexford, ..., Brooks, p. 100]
- In 1373 Walter son of Walter son of Oliver quitted claim of Kilkenny lands to a grandson of Nicholas Howell Walshe. [Ormond Deeds, ii. 185)
Notes: Based on the descent of the Kilkenny lands mentioned in the 1373 grant, the family associated with these lands used the patronym 'Fitz Oliver' rather than Howel.
Were the Howels and Walshs of the same kin? Certainly, one of the main strongholds of the Walsh of the Mountain family was referred to at an early date as Howellyscastle, Howelcastle, Castlehowel, and Castlehoyle. At Carrickbyrne in county Wexford, the Howel presence was preserved in the name of the townland of Courthoyle. And an interesting parallel is seen in the Howels and Walshs of Carrickmines and Balybrenan, county Dublin. The patronymic Howel appears to reference descent from the Welsh forename Howel or Hywel. In 1326 Maurice Howel was leasing Carrickmines and Balybrenan from Holy Trinity (church), while his kinsman Peter Howel was allowed to occupy nearby Ballymorthan. By 1372 the Walshs were occupying lands formerly leased from Holy Trinity (church) by the 'Howels'. By 1400, the Walshes were leasing at Carrickmines.
Nicholas son of Howel
Howel son of Griffin is said to have a son named Nicholas, according to Burke and others. He may have been the Nicholaus Walensis mentioned as a tenant in the extent of the manor of Cnoktoffre (Knocktopher) dated July 27, 1312 [source: Red Book of Ormond, p. 131].
There is a later reference to Nicholas in a record of his apparent grandson Geoffrey [Calendar of Ormond Deeds]. On March 21, 1373, Walter son of Walter fitz Oliver [Howel?] quitted claim to Geoffrey son of Thomas son of Nicholas Howell Walshe all his right in all lands and tenements of the town of Melagh and Saundrestoun (Cannderstown), and in a carucate of land, three acres of meadow and seven of wood in Kyldresse. These were lands in and near the civil parish of Killamery in western county Kilkenny. The next year, on June 29, 1374, it is recorded in the same source that Geoffrey, son of Thomas son of Nicholas son of Howel Walshe, gives and grants to James le Botiller, Earl of Ormond, and Elizabeth his wife, the manor and towns of Melagh and Saunderestoun with all lands and tenements, meadows, moors and pastures. To have and to hold to the Earl and Elizabeth and their heirs for ever of the chief lords of the fee, etc.
Certainly there were other Walshes in the co. Kilkenny area about the time that Nicholas must have lived. In 1303 Philip Walensis is listed in the rentals of Ballygaueran (Gowran, co. Kilkenny). In 1305 Hugh Walensis (Walsh) was a witness of a le Bret grant to Walter de lay Haye in the whole manor of Knocktopher. Richard le Waleys was among the select group of divers men called to the 1310 Parliament at Kilkenny. Circa 1310, a Mabath Walensis was a witness of a grant in the tenement of Aghaviller. The 1312 extent of the manor of Knocktopher mentions a Johannis Walensis, along with a Nicholaus Walensis.
Thomas son of Nicholas
The 1373-74 records in the Calendar of Ormond Deeds would seem to indicate that Nicholas [son of] Howell Walshe had a son named Thomas who in turn had a son named Geoffrey. There seems little reference directly to Thomas in the Ormond Deeds, or elsewhere, although a Thomas 'Howel' is noted with lands near Kilkenny (on the road to Thomastown) in a deed dated Feburary, 1312. In 7 Edward I (1313-14), the was a Thomas le Waleis mentioned in a record related to neighboring co. Carlow. In the Estreats of Co. Kilkenny (1325-26), there is mention of a "Thomas fitz Nicholas by pledge of John de Pembrok." About 1358, the names Thomas Walshe of Rathronan and Thomas Walensis 'filius Episcopi' appear in the pleas held at Clonmel, co. Tipperary.
Burke's Landed Gentry of Ireland mentions that "Nicholas (son of Howell) Walsh, or Brenagh, of Castle Hoel, had a son Thomas Walsh, or Brenagh, of Castle Hoel. Thomas married Mary, daughter of O'Connor Faly, M.I. and died circa 1300, leaving a son, Geoffrey Walsh, or Brenagh, of Castle Hoel". Given the 1374 record of Thomas's son Geoffrey, it seems likely that Thomas was still living in 1325 and beyond.
Among the other Walshes in the co. Kilkenny area at the time Thomas was possibly living include: Adam son of Wm. Walensis by pledge of Mathew de Baa and Philip Corre," and "John son of Adam Walsh (Walensis)," in the Estreats of Co. Kilkenny (1325-26). There was a Sir William Walche, in 1333, who witnessed a grant in Odogh, Co., Kilkenny. In 1338, a John Walche was a witness to a grant in Knocktopher, next to the land of Richard Holying. In 1356, among the jurors at an inquisition at Kilkenny included a Richard Houlyn of Knocktopher, Matthew Walshe, and David Eynoke. Among the names appearing circa 1358, in the Pleas of Assizes held at Clonmel, co. Tipperary, were Thomas Walshe of Rathronan, Robert Walshe, and Thomas & John Walensis 'filius Episcopi'.
Geoffrey son of Thomas
Geoffrey, son of Thomas, Walshe is the one who gave his lands in Killamery (in Co. Kilkenny) to the Earl of Ormond in 1374. The Walsh historian, Joseph Cyrillus Walsh, cites Geoffrey as owning vast lands in Knocktopher, although he does not indicate a firm source for his statement other than his son Richard later granted lands to Jerpoint abbey.
Reverend Carrigan in his History of the Diocese of Ossory suggests that Geoffry fitz Thomas fitz Nicholas fitz Howel Walshe is the first of the family to appear in Kilkenny records. On the Thursday next after the feast of the Nativity of St. John the Baptist, 1374, he appoints William Crispyn, of Carryk, and Walter Cantwell, his bailiffs, and attorneys, to put James le Botiller, Earl of Ormond, and Elizabeth, his wife, in full seisin of all lands and tenements of the manor and town of Melagh and Cannderstown (Mealaghmore and Garranmacandrew, otherwise Springmount, parish of Windgap), with all the lands and tenements and all their appurtenances in Ouerke (Iverk) in the Co. Kilkenny, as they are more fully set forth in his charter thereon. The original of this deed is preserved at Kilkenny castle, and is as follows: --
"Pateat universis per presentes me, Galfridum, filium Thome, filii Nicholai, filii Howeli Walshe constituisse &c. Willelmum Crispyn de Carryk et Walterum Cantewell, conjunctim et divisim, meas veras ballivas et attornatos ad ponendum Jacobum le Botiller, Comitem Ermonie, et Elizabeth, uxorem eius in plenariam seisinam omnium terrarum et tenementorum manerii et ville de Melagh et Cannderstoun cum omnibus terris et tenementis et omnibus eorum pertinenciis in Ouerkr, in Comitatu Kilkennie &c., prout in carta mea inde confecta plenius continetur, &. In cuius rei testimonium presentibus sigillum meum apposui. Datum die Jovis proxime post festum Nativitatis Sancti Johannis Baptiste, anno regni Edwardi tercii post conquestum Anglie quadragesimo octavo, regni vero sui ffrancie tricessimo quinto."
The name Geoffrey Walsch occurs in 1401 among the witnesses regarding the rental of the borough of Callan, co. Kilkenny. In 1412, a Geoffrey Walsche is also listed among those leasing of the manor of Melagh and Leynagheston, along with Jonoc and Walter Bretnaghe (a common form of the surname used among the early Walshes of the co. Kilkenny area).
There were other Walshes there, as well Howels and Houlyns. About 1385, King Richard 'granted' to Nicholas son of John Walsh, and to Philip lesagh Walsh, that they 'might chastise' the malefactors of their sept, and parley with the King's enemies in the County of Kilkenny. In a 1411 inquisition of the rental of James Earl of Ormond, were the names William Walshe, Robert Walsh, John Howell, William Holyn (Houlyn), John Holyn (Houlyn), Thomas Holyn (Houlyn), and Janyn & William Holyn. In the same inquisition, from the rental of the Earl from Grannagh and Overk (southern co. Kilkenny) were the names Robert Walsche, William Walsche, and Thomas Howell.
Richard son of Geoffrey
Richard, son of Geoffrey, is cited by Burke [Landed Gentry, 1912] as Richard Walsh, or Brenagh, of Castle Hoel, "suae nationis capitaneus" [Captain of his Nation]. Richard is described as "Richard Geffreyson Walshe," in another record. He was an outlaw in Iverke, 5 Henry IV, pleaded pardon in 8 Henry IV, and was appointed keeper of the Peace for co. Kilkenny on 30 July, 1410. Richard married and had a son Edward (or Edmund) Walsh, or Brenagh, of Castle Hoel, who married Joan Butler, daughter of the Baron of Poulickery. He may also be the Ricardus McGeffein Walsh who is listed in an extent of the manor of CarrekMcGriffyn [Carrick] on November 30, 1415 [page 118-9 of the Red Book of Ormond].
In his History of the Diocese of Ossory, Reverend Carrigan also cites the 1410 record (above) and goes on to say that Richard was still living, March 9th, 1446, when he (Ricardus, filius Galfridi Walshe) made a grant to the Abbey of Jerpoint of all the messuages, lands, &c., of Cloone, in the (parish of Kilmoganny, and) Barony of Kells, and of Ballycheskin (near the Kyllyne of Howellyscastell, or Castlehale), in the parish of Aghavillar and Barony of Knocktopher, as will appear from the following, the original of which is preserved at Kilkenny castle :
"Sciant presentes et futuri quod ego, Ricardus, filius Galfridi Walshe, dedi concessi et hac presenti carta mea, &c. Abbati et conventi domus beate Marie virginis de Jeriponte omnia messuagia, terras et tenementa, redditus et servicia, cum omnibus suis pertinenciis &c. in tenemento de Clonynstollane que omnino vocatur Clone cum omnibus suis, &c. in baronia de Kenlys, [et] in Ballycheskin in baronia de Knocktothyr et in parochia de Aghbillyr prope Kyllyne de Howellyscastell &c. Datum nono die mensis Martii, anno regni Henrici sexti vicessimo quarto." [also see Irish monastic and episcopal deeds, A.D. 1200-1600, 1936, p.29]
J. C. Walsh in his Walsh history (1170-1690), cites the following about Richard. Richard, son (or perhaps grandson) of Geoffrey, son of Nicholas, son of Thomas, son of Howell, lived through exciting times, He was outlawed in 1403, and had the outlawry removed in 1407. This was the time when the Kavanaghs, the descendants of the Kings of Leinster, and who kept the title of "prince" through all the feudal changes, were putting forth a last effort for their rights, and were making "of all Leinster a trembling sod." Richard may have been favorable to their cause, since he was outlawed. At any rate they were defeated by the Butlers, and Richard appeared in 1410 as one of the Keepers of the Peace for the County Kilkenny. Richard is described in the genealogies [e.g. Burke] as "chief captain of his nation," probably not the first to be so called, as he certainly was not the last. On March 9, 1446, Richard made a grant to the Abbey of Jerpoint of his lands of Clone, in the barony of Kells, and Ballycheskin in Knocktopher, thereby enabling the Cisternian monks to build the tower of the Abbey, which remains in a good state of preservation, and beneath which certain of his immediate descendants are buried. (... in the old Abbey of Jerpoint, ... there is a coffin shaped slab [Walsh] in one of the sepulchral niches in the chancel, to which it was removed from its original position beneath the tower.) Richard's son was Edmund, and both names were in high favor at the time in the Butler family. Their wives' names are nowhere given.
Other records in the Calendar of Ormond Deeds which seem to point to Richard include one date October 3, 1415, where, in the Rental of chief lands of Kylcron (co. Kilkenny), Richard son of Geoffrey Walsch and Walter Cantewell pay for Cnokdekkede, 19d. and suit of court. Among the jurors at this inquisition included David Lesagh Walsch. In another record, Richard son of Geoffrey Walsh and Thomas Fyll took the oaths of Richard Prout and Richard Fyll on August 12, 1428 in the Monastery of the B.V.M. of Jerpoint, that they would appear at the inquisition of the court of James, Earl of Ormond, held at Knocktopher on October 14, 1428. Among the jurors in 1428 were Thomas Bathe (Jr.), Thomas son of William McGriffyn, Eustace Howlyn, Richard son of John son of Philip McGriffyn, and others.
Edmund son of Richard
Richard seems the first Walsh of County Kilkenny which there are any appreciable records. If Richard had a son named Edward (or Edmund), this would seem to be the Edmund Walsh who, with his wife Johanna le Boteller, lies buried within the church of Jerpoint Abbey, underneath the tower, his right of interment there having been acquired, presumably, by the munificent benefaction of Richard fitz Geoffry Walsh, [his father?], to the Abbey in 1446.
From the book "A Royalist Family and Charles Edward Stuart" comes the following quote about Edmund: "Edmund Walsh or Bretnagh, of Castle Hoel, married Jane Butler, daughter of the Baron of Poulickery, seventh in descent from Hoyle Walsh, or Bretnagh, who built Castle Hoel, in the parish of Kilmagany, county Kilkenny, who was son of Philip Walsh, a nephew of Rees ap Griffith, Prince of South Wales, who accompanied Richard Strongbow, Earl of Pembroke, to Ireland, and having obtained large grants of land in the parish of Kilkenny, married, about 1174, Eleanor, daughter of Maurice Burgh. Edmund died in 1443. Edmund's son was Robert Walsh or Bretnagh, of Castle Hoel, died 1481, who married Catherine Power, of Donhill."
Notes: The 1443 death for Edmund is disputed by later readings of his tomb. A later date of 1476 is suggested by Canon Carrigan, J. C. Walsh, and Burke.
According to Burke's Landed Gentry (1912), Edward (aka Edmund) died and was buried at Jerpoint Abbey in 1476, leaving a son Robert Walsh, or Brenagh, Baron of Shancahir. Robert married Catherine Power, of Donhill, and he died 8 Dec 1501 (M.I.), leaving a son Walter Walshe, or Brenagh, "suae nationis capitaneus", and James Walsh of Ballincowle.
An article in the JRSAI (ser.5: v.16; 1906, by Richard Langrishe, published in 1907) describes the tomb of Edmund, as follows:
A coffin-shaped slab which formerly lay on the floor under the tower; it commemorates Edmund Walsh of Castle-hoyle, alias Lettercorbally (now Rossenarra), and Johanna le Botiler, his wife ; his family had been benefactors of the abbey. The coffin-shaped floor slab now covering the table-tomb under the tower is a very fine specimen of monumental sculpture of this period. This was the covering slab of Robert Walsh, of Castlehoyle, who died in 1501, and Katherine Poher, his wife. He appears to have been the son and heir of Edmund Walsh, above-mentioned, and his wife is said to have been a daughter of John le Poer, Baron palatine of Donhill, county Waterford, the head of that family, who was living in 1471.
Notes: This article provides an illustration of the tomb of Edmund and his wife Johanna. The death date appears to be "m cccc lttt vi" (1486?). The coat of arms of Walsh of the Mountain also appears on their tomb, with the three pheons (or broad arrow points) pointing down. The article also provide an illustration for the tomb of Robert Walsh and Katherine Poher (below), with Roberts obit. date listed as 8 December, 1501. Again the coat of arms of Walsh of the Mountain appears on the tomb of Robert, this time with the three pheons pointing upward, the lower pheon broader than the upper two.
Few early lineages are without an alternative view, and it seems appropriate to cite another view of the ancestors of Edmund Walsh (married to Johanna le Botiller). From the documents provided by the Walshs, later comtes de Serrant in France, located in the "Cabinet des Titres" in the "Bibliothèque Nationale" in Paris, Edmund was buried at Jerpoint in 1443. Edmund's lineage included his parents as Walter Brenagh of Castlehowell and Catherine Butler, his grandparents Philip Brenagh of Castelhowell and Mary O'Connor, his great-grandparents Robert Brenagh of Castelhowell and Eleanor Carroll; his g-g grandparents Walter Brenagh (!1327) of Castelhowel and Cecilia O'Pempsie, and his g-g-g grandparents Adam Brenagh (1st degree) and Catherin Burke. (See Walsh-Serrant)
Robert son of Edmund
According to Carrigan's translation of his tomb, Robert Walsh died Dec. 8th, 1501, and is buried with his wife, Katherine Poher (Power), in Jerpoint Abbey, alongside the grave of [his parents?] the above Edmund Walsh and Johanna le Boteller. He was probably the father of Walter Brenagh, or Walsh, of whom presently, and (perhaps) of Honora Brenagh, or Walsh, wife of Sir John Grace, of Courtstown (who are buried at St. Canice's Cathedral, Kilkenny). In the western niche on the north side of the chancel of Jerpoint Abbey are the tombs of Katerine Poher and Robert Walsh.
Burke (Landed Gentry, 1912) calls him Robert Walsh, or Brenagh, Baron of Shancahir. Robert married Catherine Power, of Donhill, and he died 8 Dec 1501 (M.I.), leaving a son Walter Walshe, or Brenagh, "suae nationis capitaneus,".
J. C. Walsh states, "The title of "Baron of Shancaher" is ascribed to Robert Walsh. Those who wrote of the feudal baronage of Ireland take note of the title, and also that of Grace, Baron of Courtstown, "but consider the validity of the titles in both cases not proven since the circumstances of their bestowal are not known. Doubtless the proofs might have been more easily available had it not been that both Grace and Walsh were eliminated by Cromwell. As it is, the record published elsewhere of the proceedings of Walter Walsh leaves no room for doubt about the title, but there is nothing to indicate the date of its creation, except that tradition designates this Robert as the first. This does not agree with the view held by Col. Hunt Walsh in 1769, he evidently believing the title was much older. At any rate he was right as to the main fact."
"Oldcourt, in Templeorum parish, was called Shancahir, or the Old Stone Fort. Tradition asserts that the Walshs erected a court, or castle, within the ancient cahir, and made it one of their earliest residences on the Walsh Mountain. The title, Baron of Shancahir, had its origin in the connection of the family with this place. Both cahir and court have disappeared. The ruined walls of the latter remained, to the height of a few feet, until about 1825. The site is marked by a circular depression 45 yards in diameter. "
Walter son of Robert
According to Rev. Carrigan, Walter Brenagh, or Walsh, "chief captain of his nation," is buried, together with his wife, Katherine Buteller, in the same grave with Robert Walsh, and must be supposed to have been his son. He was still living in 1537, in which year the Jury of the Commyners of the Towne of Kilkenny present Walter Brenagh, senr., Edmund, Walter and Richard, his sons, and Walter Brenagh, the younger, with most of the other freeholders of the County of Kilkenny, for charging their tenants coyne and livery. He died before 1549. Baron of Shancaher, said to have been another title of the chiefs of the Walshs, took its origin from a very early residence of the family, now entirely destroyed, in the townland of Oldcourt, near Templeorum chapel. The only title by which any of one of the old Lords of the Mountain is mentioned today, in Irish, in south Kilkenny, is "An Eye-zha Brannach", i.e. the Heir Walsh. His son Edmund Brenagh was dead before May, 1550.
J. C. Walsh states, "The position of these monuments [i.e. the Edmund, Robert and Walter Walsh tombs at Jerpoint] bears testimony to the gratitude of the monks for the munificent gifts of Richard Walsh, and the tombs themselves, the most notable in the Abbey except two effigial monuments bearing figures of Bishop Felix O'Dulany and William, Bishop of Cork, indicate past all misunderstanding the importance of the Castle Hale family of Walsh in the Barony of Knocktopher at the end of the fifteenth and the beginning of the sixteenth century."
An article in JRSAI (ser.5:v.16; 1906; publ. 1907) describes his tomb. "The south side of this tomb (at Jerpoint Abbey) is a slab incribed to commemorate Walter Walsh, of Castlehoyle, son and successor to Robert Walsh, and to Walter's wife, Katherine Butler, said to have been a member of the Poulakerry family in Tipperary. It is not dated, but judging from the references to this Walter, and his sons Edmund, Walter, and Richard in the presentment of the jury of the Commons of county Kilkenny, in 1537, it must have been about 1540-41. The abbey having been surrendered to the Crown in 1539, there would have been no difficulty in the way of the Walsh family converting their grandfather's tombstone into the top slab of a table monument as we now see it. In all documents of the period the name of this family is as often written Brenach or Brenagh (Brittanicus), as it is in the modern form of Walsh."
Notes: A drawing of Walter's tomb is also provided in the JRSAI publication, along with illustrations of the tombs of his apparent father Robert and apparent grandfather Edmund.
Edmund son of Walter
As Rev. Carrigan cites of the latter Walter Walsh's sons: "Edmund Brenagh his eldest son, succeeded. On the 27th March, 1549, pardons were granted to "Edmund Brenaghe alias Walsh, of Castelhowell, gent, ; and Robert Brenaghe, alias Walshe, of Richestown, Oliver Brenaghe, alias Walshe, of Ballytesken, and Philip Brenaghe, alias Walshe, sons of Edmund [source: Fiants of Ed. VI.]. Rev. Carrigan states that Edmund Brenagh was dead before May, 1550. About 1550, Edmund's lands and those of his kinsmen "houlden of the Mannor of Knocktofer" were valued at £151, an amount exceeded at the time by none of the Co. Kilkenny freeholders except the Earl of Ormond and the Bishop of Ossory."
Rev. Carrigan goes on to state, "This Edmund is the first of the family to whom the popular title of "Lord of the Mountain" is found applied, though, no doubt, it had been borne by his ancestors, as it certainly was afterwards by his descendants. It will be remarked that the title is "Lord of the Mountain," and not Lord of the Mountains ; for, though the hilly district formerly possessed by the Walshs is now known as "the Walsh Mountains," still the older and better form of the name is "the Walsh Mountain," which latter is also the exact rendering of Shleea-Brannach, its old Irish name.
Edmund is cited in the Calendar of Ormond Deeds. In a document dated in April 1521, he is referred to as Walter Brenagche sue nacionis ididem principali (chief of his nation). In August 1526 Walter Walsh is listed among the nine individuals in a manifesto of the freeholders of Kilkenny. In a bond dated August 4, 1549, Edmund Brenagh of Hovelcastle [Castlehale] is mentioned in the same company with Edmund archbishop of Cashel, Sir John Grace of Gracescourt, Piers fitz Edmund Butler of Glanballycullyane, and Piers fitz Edmund Butler of Knockenaneme.
There are a number of genealogical citations made about Edmund Brenagh, alias Walsh. From a genealogical statement made to Walsh de Serrant, it states "Edmd. Walsh married to the King of Leinster's daughter then, and the sd. Edmd. had Robert Walsh, married to Ellen Tobin, the lord of Kimsonagh's daughter." From "A Royalist Family and Charles Edward Stuart" comes the following quote, "Edmund Bretnagh or Walsh, of Castle Hoel, died 1550. He had two younger brothers. He married, secondly, Margaret, daughter of Rowland FitzGerald, Baron of Burnechurch. He was the father of Robert Walsh, died 1557." From another pedigree given to Walsh de Serrant, "Edmond Welsh, who was married to Greny, daughter of Garland, King of Linster antiently; he had by her a son Pierse Welsh and Mathew Welsh, Philip Welsh, Robert Welsh the father of Oliver Welsh. This Edmond Welsh wee treat of maried the daughter of the Barron of Burnchurch, and from him are descended the noble family of the Welshes of Encencarren (Inchicarran) and Clounashy (Cloonassy)." From another pedigree statement, published by J. C. Walsh, "Edmond the madman had for first wife Grani ni Cavanagh whom he repudiated and took to 2nd wife Fitzgerald of Burnchurch's daughter by who he had Robert of Castle Hayle & Philip of Court Hayle in the County Wexford (note: the latter is another reference to Carrickbyrne). Philip had issue William who had issue Lewis and who had issue Patrick and others name unknown."
Robert son of Edmund
The citations above all seem to agree that Edmund's son and heir was Robert Walsh. Rev. Carrigan says of him, "Robert Brenagh, son of Edmund who died before May, 1550, became next Lord of the Mountain. On the 12th March, 1550, livery of seisin of the possessions of Edmund Brenaghe, late of Howelliscastell, Esq., was granted to Robert, his son and heir. Fine £66 13s. 4d. (source: Fiants of Ed. VI.) Robert was dead before 1572."
From the book A Royalist Family and Charles Edward Stuart, "Robert Walsh or Bretnagh, of Castle Hoel, died 1557. He had two brothers. He married Helen, daughter of James Tobin of Cumshinagh. He was the father of Walter Walsh, died 1619."
From Burke's Landed Gentry, "Walter's first son Edmund married and had issue Robert, of Castle Hoel, who died 10 Oct 1557; Oliver of Ballyteskin; and Philip of Courthoyle. Edmund's first son Robert married and had issue Walter Walsh, of the Mountains; Edmund, John, Margaret."
In the pardons granted by the King on March 27, 1549, Robert Brenaghe alias Walshe, of Rochestown, is listed alongside his father, Edmund Brenaghe alias Walshe, of Castelhowell, and two of his brothers, Oliver Brenaghe, alias Walsh, of Ballestekin, and Philip Brenaghe, alias Walshe. About one year later is a record of the livery of the possessions of Edward Bretnagh, of Howelycastell, esq., to Robert, his son and heir, on 12 March, 4 Edward VI (1550) [source: Calendar of the Patent and Close Rolls of Chancery in Ireland; v. 1, 1861]. As J.C. Walsh suggests, Rochestown was the apparent residence of the son and heir of the Lord of the Mountain, which is indicated in a couple of the records concerning elder sons in the family.
Walter son of Robert
Robert Walsh's son Walter is also cited by various sources. Rev. Carrigan states, "Walter Walsh (who laid aside the Irish form of the name), his son, succeeded, and was Lord of the Mountain for about 50 years. It was not, however, till the 15th Feb., 1605-6, that, as son and heir of Robert Walshe, late of Castlehowell, in the Co. Kilkenny, gent., deceased, he had livery of seisin and pardon of intrusion ; fine £15 2s. 4d. sterling. As "Walter Brenaghe of Castlehele in the Walshe Montayne, gent.," he received pardon, Dec. 23rd, 1571. He was Sheriff of the Co. Kilkenny from 1579 to 1586. In 1610 he figures in Government records as a harbourer of the Popish Priests, Sirs Teige and Donogh O'Hely. He died at a very advanced age, May 19th, 1619. His Caoine, or Lament, has survived almost three centuries, and is still recited in the original Irish on the Walsh Mountain. By his wife, the Lady Ellice Butler (born several years before 1541, still living in 1614), eldest daughter of Richard, 1st Viscount Mountgarret, and grand-daughter of Pierce Ruadh, Earl of Ormond, he had, according to Lodge, five sons."
Other citations for Walter Walsh, son of Robert, include the following:
On 2 Jan 1580, Queen Elizabeth, in the 22nd year of the reign, nominates Walter Walsh (Walter de Montayne), Vice-Lieutenant of the County of Kilkenny. On 4 Jan 1580, she orders Richard Sheethe and Robert Rothe to receive the oath of Walter Walsh de Montayne. Again on 29 Nov 1586, Queen Elizabeth nominates Walter as Vice-Lieutenant.
In an Inquisition dated 6th October 1619, he is mentioned as Walter Walsh, late of Castlehoell, in the County aforesaid (of Kilkenny), Esq., was seized in his demesne, as of fee, of and in the manor of Castlehoell aforesaid, and of and in the castle, towns and lands of Castlehoell, otherwise called Litter Corbally, in the Barony of Shanecahir, containing... (a long list of lands is then enumerated). His heir is mentioned in this document as "Walter Walsh fitz Robert is the grandson and next heir of Robert Walsh, son and heir of Walter. senior, aforesaid, and was eighteen years of age at the time of the death of Walter, senior, aforesaid, and not married." His wife is also mentioned in this document as "Ellis Butler otherwise Walsh, wife of Walter Walsh, senior, aforesaid, still lives in full vigour."
On 11 May 1621, James I, King of England, of Scotland and of Ireland, approves the lease on fief passed between the late Walter Walsh of Castlhoell, in the County of Kilkenny, Esquire, on the one part and Richard Grant of Corsoddy, and William Wale of Muckery in the County of Tipperary. The revenues of these lands will be delivered to Walter Walsh, after him to his wife, Elicie Cutler; after her to one of their five sons, Robert, Edmund, James, William and John Walsh; after them to Robert Walsh, father of Walter Walsh.
On 6 Aug (21st year of the reign in England), James I, referring to his letters patent dated at Westminster, 23rd Sep 1622 (20th year of the reign), gives to Walter Walsh junior, cousin and heir of Walter Walsh of Castlehoyle in the County of Kilkenny, son of Robert Walsh, himself son of Walter Walsh the elder, the heritage of the latter on payment of 57 pounds, six penxe eight farthings, Irish money, into the Treasury of Dublin. Witness Henry, Viscount of Falkland, Deputy General of Ireland.
At Blackfryers near Kilkenny on 8 Apr 1635 (old style) - Attestation regarding the alienation by the late Walter Walsh of Castlehoyle (County of Kilkenny) of a fief situated at Farrenfelbine and Ballyferoge, for the benefit of Edmund Walsh of Killmanalim, and of Agnes Walsh his wife, according to the rolls of the Chancellery of Ireland, under Charles I.
Robert son of Walter
Walter's son and heir was Robert Walsh. Rev. Carrigan cites, "Robert, his eldest son and heir, who married, in 1595, Eleanor, daughter of Sir John fitz Edmund Fitzgerald, of Cloyne, Co. Cork, and died at his residence in Ballygown, near Kilmoganny, in 1603, leaving a son and heir, Walter, born in 1601 (and, perhaps, a second son, viz. "Edmund Walsh fitz Robert of Castlehoyle, in the Co. Kilkenny," mentioned in Inquisitiones Lageniae, Co. Kilkenny, 104. Charles I,)."
In a statement provided to Walsh de Serrant it cites, "Robert the eldest son married Margaret Fitzgerald, of the great family of the Earls of Thomond then. The said Robert and Margaret Fitzgerald had the great Walter Walsh that was married to Magdalen Sheffield, the English lady. "
The Calendar of Ormond Deeds makes a possible early reference to him, viz., Robert Walsh of Croballie is mentioned in a June 11, 1586 grant where he and others received a grant, among others, for the use of Kellistown. Croballie was likely Crobally in Derrynahinch parish as a later Robert Walsh (great-grandson of this Robert) forfeited lands there in 1653.
Among the pardons granted in the year 1602, he is likely the Robert Walsh fitz Walter, of Ballinone, co. Kilkenny, gent., who is listed along with his father Walter Walsh fitz Rob., of Castlehowell, gent.. The same record mentions that Robert Walsh fitz Walter was among those excepted from the proviso excluding from pardon in any prison or on bail.
Robert is also mentioned in a record made by his father in the year 1611. Walter Walsh of Castehoel, by entail of 20th January 1611 (original held by V. Hussey Walsh), enfeoffed Castlehoel, etc., to himself for life, to Ellice Butler, otherwise Walsh, his wife, for dower, and after her death to Robert Walsh, son and heir of the said Walter and his heirs, then to Edmund Walsh, second son of the said Walter, and the heirs male of his body begotten, and for want of heirs general to the use of James Walsh, the third son, etc., to William Walsh, the fourth son, etc., to John Walsh, the fifth son, etc., then to the heirs of Walter Walsh, and to the heirs of Robert his father. [source: Foreign Branches of the Family of Walsh, 2005 edition]
In a record of 1614, Robert is cited as deceased. On the 28th April, 1614, a grant was made to Robert Cowley, gent., of the wardship of Walter Walshe, son and heir of Robert fitz Walter Walshe of Ballinegown (Ballygown), in Co., Kilkenny, deceased; for a fine of 2 pounds and an annual rent of 1 pound, retaiin 10s. for his maintenance and education. [source; Pat. Rolls, 12 Jame I, 1.]
Walter son of Robert
Robert's son and heir was Walter Walsh. Rev. Carrigan cites, "Walter Walsh, the son of Robert, son of Walter, succeeded his grandfather as Lord of the Mountain, in 1619, being then a youth of 18 years of age. On the 28th April, 1614, a grant was made to Robert Cowley, gent., "of the wardship of Walter Walshe, son and heir of Robert fitz Walter Walshe of Ballinegown (Ballygown), in Co. Kilkenny, deceased; for a fine of 2l., and an annual rent of 1l., retaining therout 10s. for his maintenance and education." (source: Pat. Rolls, 12 James I. I.) Walter had livery of his estates, Aug. 6th, 1623, for a fine of 57l. 6s. 8d. Irish. On the 26th July, 1637, a grant in virtue of the Commission for remedy of Defective Titles, for a fine of 15l., was made by King Charles I., to him, his heirs and assigns for ever, of the whole manor of Castlehoyle, in the Co. Kilkenny, and of the manor of Courthale, an ancient inheritance of the Walshs, in the Co. Wexford."
J. C. Walsh says the following about this Walter, "Walter Walsh of Castle Hale, Kells, was a captain in Lord Castleconnell's regiment in the Confederate army. His signature is appended to the oath of association taken by the Confederates, 27 June 1648. He fought to the last against the English parliamentary forces and is probably the Captain Walter Walsh who surrendered to Major General Hadress Waller, 19 April, 1652 on favourable terms. Walsh's son and heir, Edmund, also a confederate officer, was killed in the king's service during his father's lifetime. Walsh's second son Hoyle, served as Lieutenant Colonel in the Confederate army. Sir Walter Butler was the military governor of Kilkenny city and James Walsh the commander of the Castle, when Cromwell and his army forced the plague ridden city to surrender after a short siege."
Rev. Carrigan goes on to say, "To return to Walter Walsh of Castlehale. He was M.P. for Co. Kilkenny in 1639 and following years. During the stormy period of the Confederation of Kilkenny, he took an active part with his Catholic fellow-countrymen in their struggle for religion and country. He must have impressed the Papal Nuncio Monsignor Rinuccini, very favorably, if it be true, as stated in an old Irish poem, that the latter honoured him with a visit to Castlehale. He died suddenly, while sitting at table, in New Ross, some time between 1650 and 1655, but the exact year is unknown. In 1625 he had married the Lady Magdalen Sheffield, 2nd daughter of Sir John Sheffield, and grand-daughter of Edmund, 3rd Lord Sheffield and 1st Earl of Mulgrave; they had the following issue: Edmund, Hoyle or Howel, Robert, Elizabeth, Ursula, and some add a third daughter Letitia (though inaccurate)."
Edmund son of Walter
Of Walter's eldest son Carrigan cites, "Edmund, eldest son and heir, killed in the King's service, that is, during the Cromwelliam campaign of 1649-50. Portion of his Caoine was recited for the writer, in 1892, but it contained nothing more than an enumeration of his many noble qualities. It is not stated where exactly he met his death. There is a tradition that he was at first buried on the battle-field, where his life had been cut short so prematurely ; that some nights afterwards, his spirit appeared to his footman, told him where his body lay, and desired him to convey it thence to the burial-place of his forefathers ; and that his behest was loyally fulfilled by the faithful servant. He was the last of the Walshs to live in Inchacarran Court. As his parents were not married till 1625, he cannot have been more than 23 or 24 years old at his death. By his wife, Margaret Grace, whose father, Oliver Grace, of Inchmore, died at an early age in 1637, he had a son Robert, of whom presently, and a daughter who is said to have married a blacksmith, and to have lived and died in great poverty."
In a pedigree drawn up in the 18th century for Walsh de Serrant (Statement A), he is described as Edmond Welsh that was slaine at Disartmone, married to Margaret Grace, daughter to Esq. Grace of Courtstown. V. Hussey Walsh describes him as Edmund, eldest son of Walter, who died during his father's lieftime, having been slain by a Tory of the name Dalton, at Dissertmoon, near New Ross. In another description he is referred to as Edmund, who was killed as an officer under Preston of Gormanstown, in a battle against Cromwell, near Rosbercon. He married Maragaret Grace, daughter of Oliver, and their son Robert, born in 1647, was regranted part of the estates of his grandfather, Walter of Castlehale, about 1653 (about 2,000 out of 14,000 acres).
Robert son of Edmund
Of Edmund's eldest son, Robert, Rev. Carrigan cites, "he was born in 1647, and succeeded to the Lordship of the Mountain, on the death of his grandfather, about 1652. He would have been only 5 or 6 when his entire property of about 14,000 acres was confiscated under Cromwell, in 1653. In the Down Survey Books, drawn up in 1657, he is mentioned as "Robt., son of Walter Walsh deceased, aged ten years," and as "Robert son of Math. Walsh;" but the "Math." is evidently a mistake for Walt., and "son" should have been grandson. By the 148th sec, of the Act of Settlement, 17 an 18 Charles II. (1665-66), "Master [Robert] Walsh, heir of Walter Walsh of Castle Hoyle." was restored to his principal seat and about 2,000 acres of his estate. That he ever effectually recovered the ancestral mansion of Castlehale, notwithstanding, is, however, most unlikely, though he is styled "of Castlehoyle" in a document of 1683, in which he is stated to have successfully established his claim to 115 acres in Ballynowmabagh (Mabbotstown), 132 acres in Millodstown, 88 acres in Barnadown and Brownstown, 12 acres in Castlehoyle, and 39 acres in Ballynonie, parcel of his former estate. Some years previously, the Duke of Ormond, to whom the lands of Ballygown, otherwise Smithstown, and Newchurch, also parcel of the Castlehale estate, had been granted by the Act of Settlement, re-granted them to Robert Walsh, and his heirs male, for a rent of 5l, a year. He resided in Cloonassy in 1689, in which year he was one of the representatives of Co. Kilkenny in King James's Irish Parliament. He is most probably identical with the Robert Walsh appointed a Burgess of Inistioge by King James' charter to that town, in 1688; with the captain Robert Walsh, one of those who "came out of France with King James II. to Ireland;" and with the Robert Walsh, who was Captain in Colonel John Grace's Regimeny during the Williamite and Jacobite War. As "Robert Walsh of Cloneassy, Esq.," he was outlawed and attainted, at Kilkenny, on the 11th May, 1691. A few months later he fell at the siege of Limerick.
His estate, consisting of the lands of Clonassy and Rochestown, in the Barony of Iverk; and Newtown (recte Newchurch) and Smithstown (now Ballygown), with the commons belonging thereto, in the Barony of Kells; containing in all 1,918 acres, was sold by the Trustees of Forfeited Lands to the Hollow Sword Blades Company, June 23rd, 1703. By his wife Mary (still living in 1700), daughter of Pierce, brother of Sir James Walsh, he had: Walter, Margaret, Elizabeth, Magdalen.
Early Reference to possible Walshs in and near County Kilkenny
Circa 1230? is a record of a Philip and Clement Walensis appearing as witnesses to a land grant in the country Okerle, that is Cluain Ui Cearbhaill, or O'Carrolls' plain near the city of Kilkenny.
Circa 1235 Adam Walensis was granted land in or near Gowran.
Circa 1292 Sir Stephen Howell witnessed a grant of the manor and castle of Knocktopher from Edmund, son of Milo le Bret, to Sir Walter de la Haye.
Circa 1300? David Valensis of Grellan witnessed a grant of land at Carrickmagriffin.
In 1303 in the rental of Ballygaueran are Philip Walensis, along with a Walter fitz Stephen.
In 1303 in the extent of lands in co. Carlow are listed John and Thomas Walensis.
In 1303 in the extent of the manor of Thurles is Hugh Walensis. Also a Clement and William Walensis.
In 1305 we find Hugh Walensis (Walsh) as a witness to a le Bret grant to Walter de lay Haye in the whole manor of Cnoctowre.
In 1305 Adam Waleys is listed as a juror at an inquisition regarding the extent of the manor of Ardmayle, co. Tipperary.
In June 1307, regarding the lands of David son of Milo at Hillyd, taken at Cnoctowre, included jurors Madok fitz Eynon, Colin Walensis, &c.
In 1308 William Walensis is listed with land in Villa Cormok, among those listed in the lands of Robert Purcell.
In 1308-9 in the rental of the barony of Knockgraffon, co. Tipperary is John Walshe, listed as a juror.
Circa 1310 we find witnesses of a grant in nearby Aghaviller including Milo son of Adam, Henry son of Adam, and Mabath Walensis.
In 1312 listed in the extent of the manor of Cnoktoffre is Nicholas Walensis. Johannis Walensis is mentioned in the same extent, and in connection
with Philip Rys and Matthew Rys at 'Hych.'
1325 - In the Estreats of Co. Kilkenny for the year 1325, we find Adam son of William Walensis, as well as John son of Adam Walsh (Walensis).
In 1338 we find John Walche as a witness to a small grant in Knocktopher, near to the land of Richard Hoyling.
In 1340 John de Ken (Kenlis or Kells) witnessed a grant of land in Kilmoganny.
In 1356 Matthew Walshe was a juror at an inquistion regarding land in Knocktopher, along with Richard Houlyn of Knocktopher.
In 1361 Oliver son of Howell fitz Stephen appointed Thomas son of David Cadugan and Walter Gret (?) his bailiffs for placing Sir Raymond son of Robert Wallys, chaplain, in seisin of all his lordships of Lotheran (possibly in or near Kilbeacon).
In 1362 John Brechnoc is mentioned with a messuage in Carrickmagriffin.
In the 1364 Roll of the English [Calendar of Entries in the Papal Registers Relating to Great Britain and Ireland] is an Adam Walshe, for the benefice in the gift of the Augustinian prior and convent of Kilnys, in the diocese of Ossory.
In 1373 Walter Howel, grandson of Oliver Howel, transferred his Kilkenny possessions to Geoffrey son of Nicholas Howell Walshe. These lands appear to have been in Tullahought and Killamery, in the barony of Kells.
In 1374 Geoffrey, son of Thomas son of Nicholas son of Howel Walshe granted the lands above to James le Botiller.
Circa 1385, King Richard 'granted' to Nicholas so of John Walsh, and to Philip lesagh Walsh, that they 'might chastise' the malefactors of their sept, and parley with the King's enemies in the County of Kilkenny. [King James's Irish Army List, v. 2 - 1861]
In 1388 we find Richard Walsh, chaplain, receiving grants in Aghaviller, Knocktopher and Ida.
In 1388 Andrew Walshe witnessed a grant of land in Jerpoint.
In 1401 Geoffrey Walsche is noted with rent in or near Callan.
From 1403 to 1411 Merick Walsch and David Walsch (sons of Gornok?) receive grants of land in Inistioge (barony of Gowran).
Circa 1410 (11 Henry IV), Richard and Geoffrey Walsh (&c.) are appointed custodes pacis in the county of Kilkenny.
In 1411 William Walsh is shown with rental in the barony of Knocktopher, for the great hall. Among the free tenents is Robert Walsh for le Knokyngawr. The two names are also shown for rental in Grannagh and Overk. In another list of November 1411 their names are spelled Walsche.
In 1412 for rental in Melagh and Leynagheston are included Geoffrey Walsche, Jonoc Bretnaghe, Walter Bretnaghe.
In 1415 for rent in the manor of Kilcron (so. Kilkenny) include David Lesagh Walsch and Richard son of Geoffrey Walsch.
In 1415 for rent in the manor of Grenagh include Lewellyn Walsh at Affadde. Jurors included Johannem Bretnagh and Willelmum Stephwalsh.
In 1419 regarding parcels of royal service divided between the Barony of Knocktopher and the Newtown of Jerpoint, are included John Howell, Richard son of Philip McGriffyn, Richard son of Philip Walsh.
In 1426 in the rental of Kilkenny and Tipperary are included David Walsch, Thomas Beg and Shane Bretanagh, Walter Walsch, William More Walsch, and another David Walsch. Aditionally are listed: William Walsch for the farm of Cloggagh, William Walsch of Polrothane.
In 1426 John Walsh was granted rents in Shanbogh, barony of Ida.
In 1428 Richard son of Geoffrey Walsh was noted accepting oaths at Jerpoint.
In 1428 a John Walsh and a Janyn Walsh were jurors at an inquisition as to the boundaries of Listerlin.
In 1429 Margareta, daughter of Richard Braynok grants to Nicholas son of Walter Braynok of Rathgoll, chaplain, a messuage called Condownyestoun with thirty acres of land in the lordship of Rathgoll. (There was a Condonstown in the parish of Aghaviller - Rathgoll is where?]
In 1432 Thomas Walsh was granted a farm lease, perhaps in or near Listerling.
In 1432 under the rental in the manor of Grennagh (so. Kilkenny) is listed William Philpotesson Walsch for the farm of Cloyagh, David Walsch, Schane Bretenagh, William More Walsch, Walter Walsch, and William Walsch of Polrothane.
In 1433 in the rental of Knocktopher appears William Walsch in Polrothan. Under the rental of Kilcron are Annora Walsch and Gilledan Walsch.
In 1434 under the rental of Grennagh includes William Walsch for the farm of Clogagh, and under that entry the farm of Clonasse. Also included are John Walsch, smith; Thomas Walsch and David Walsch. Under Carrickmagriffin is Robert Walsh for the farm of Monybrytayne. In the same year Annota [Annora?] Walshe and Robert Walshe her son are given custody of the Earl of Ormond's castle at Carrick [?magriffin].
In 1440 John son of William More Walsh grants a messuage and lands at Hopekynestoun near Meydlagh.
In 1442 or 1443 under the rental in the manor Grennagh include the tenure of William More Walsh, as well as William Philpotesson for the farm of Cloghagh.
In the 1443 payments to the Earl of Ormond includes Nicholas Walsch for messuages made at Knocktopher.
In 1444 under the rental in Knocktopher is Nicholas Walsh for his messuage and 12 acres of the demesne; Adam Walsh for 5 acres of demesne; and the wife of John Walsh for 10 acres in Dennesrath.
In 1446 William Walsch, chaplain, grants lands at Owning, Ballyhenebery and Fanningstown to a Henebery, with remainder to Henebery ancestors but also to John Glas son of Richard Gyllegalde Lesagh Walsch, to Milo son of the same Richard, to Philip son of Philip Cam Lesagh Walsch, to Walter son of John Glas Lesagh Walsch, and to Richard son of James Lesagh Walsch.
In 1456 is a grant to Nicholas Bryanock, chaplain of land in Cautouneston in the lordship of Rathgeyll. (see the 1429 grant)
In 1456 James Walch was a witness of land granted in the Rower.
In 1501 at an inquisition in Inistioge include William Bretnagh of Rosbaucon, gentleman; and Robert Walsh of Inystiok.
In 1504 William Brennagh alias Walsh fitzJames is granted half part of all lands of Androwislande of Caslanneholl (Castlehoel?) in Ossory.
In 1546 is Master Adam Walshe ffermour of Kilbecan.
In 1594 James Glasse Brenagh is listed with rent of lands of the manor of Knocktopher.
In 1594 James Brenagh fitz Edmund, late of Barnenicoll, was attainted of treason.
In 1594 are cited James Brenaghe of Downemogan, James Brenaghe of Rahin, and Philip Brennaghe of Knockmolan.
Note: Most of the records above are derived from the Calendar of Ormond Deeds, as well as the Red Book of Ormond.
Bibliography:
The Lament for John MacWalter Walsh with notes on the History of the Family of WALSH 1170 - 1690 (J.C. Walsh, 1925)
A Royalist Family Irish and French (1689-1789) and Prince Charles Edward (Edinburgh, Brown,1904).
Burke's Landed Gentry of Ireland (London, 1912 edition).
Walsh pedigree published by William Hawkins, Ulster King at Arms in 1769.
The History and Antiquities of the Diocese of Ossory (Wm. Carrigan, Dublin, 1905).
Genealogical memoirs of the members of Parliament for the county and city of Kilkenny (George Dames Burtchaell, 1888)
O'Harts Irish Pedigrees (Dublin, 1876).
Article reference by William W. Seaward (December 26, 1917).
The Calendar of Ormond Deeds (Volumes I through V, Edmund Curtis, publ. 1932-41).
The Red Book of Ormond (Newport White, Dublin, 1932).
Calendar of Documents, related to Ireland (various publications)
Journal of the Royal Society of Antiquaries of Ireland, (ser.5: v.16; Richard Langrishe, 1906).
Inquisitiones Lageniae, Co. Kilkenny, (104. Charles I)
Foreign Branches of the Family of Walsh (V. Hussey Walsh, 2005 edition).
Other sources, as cited in the article.
The preceding article was compiled by Dennis J. Walsh, © 2009
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