Abington

100 registered freehold parcels lie mostly in Abington, from 185 m² to 158,734 m² (15.87 ha, 39.22 acres). The dashed line is the townland's boundary. 27 neighbouring parcels touch it.

Download the townland as DXF, in Irish Transverse Mercator metres, with its boundary, parcels and buildings, or as GeoJSON or KML.

No zone of a development plan covers Abington in the national zoning. Outside zoned towns and villages, the county development plan's rural policies apply to each application.

Source: Tailte Éireann and the Department of Housing (MyPlan), national zoning, CC BY 4.0.

• 26 Feb 2026Conditional

  a change of house type, addition of a detached garage, change of site layout to include repositioning of the house, together with all associated site works under previously permitted governing permission reference number 22/62

  Permission, 1 home · Limerick County Council, 2660204

• 6 Nov 2025Conditional

  the construction of a vehicular entrance, dwelling house, domestic garage, home office outbuilding, domestic waste water treatment system with polishing filter together with all associated site works. Outline Planning Permission ref number 22/652

  Permission consequent, 1 home · Limerick County Council, 2561138

• 30 Oct 2025Conditional

  extending existing dwelling house and the raising of the existing dwelling to create habitable rooms on the first-floor level and all associated works

  Retention · Limerick County Council, 2561113

• 24 Mar 2025Conditional

  a change of house type, change of site layout to include repositioning of house and septic tank & percolation on the site, alterations to the site boundaries together with all associated site works under previously permitted governing permission reference number 22/62

  Permission, 1 home · Limerick County Council, 2560241

• 9 Jun 2022Conditional

  the construction of a vehicular entrance, dwelling house, domestic garage, home office outbuilding, domestic wastewater treatment system with polishing filter together with all associated site works

  Outline permission, 1 home · Limerick County Council, 22652

• 24 Jan 2022Conditional

  construction of a dwelling house, entrance, domestic garage, installation of a waste water treatment plant and percolation area and to sink a well and all associated site works

  Permission, 1 home · Limerick County Council, 2262

• 8 Jul 2021Conditional

  the construction of an entrance, single storey dwelling house, domestic garage, waste water treatment system with polishing filter together with all associated site works

  Permission, 1 home · Limerick County Council, 21967

• 4 Dec 2020Conditional

  a dwelling house, garage, wastewater treatment system, site entrance and all associated site works above and below ground(ref. no. of outline permission 18/1115)

  Permission consequent, 1 home · Limerick County Council, 201283

• 6 Nov 2020Conditional

  the demolition of a later mass concrete outbuilding to the North west of the dwelling house and its replacement with a single storey building containing 2 no. bedrooms, a small study and bathroom, linked to the main house via a single storey glazed garden room, minor amendments to the internal layout of the main house to provide an en-suite and walk in wardrobe at first floor level. No other changes are proposed. Castle Comfort House is a recorded Protected Structure (P.P.S. 83)

  Permission · Limerick County Council, 201140

• 4 Sept 2020Conditional

  a dwelling extension, new garage, wastewater treatment system, polishing filter, entrance and all associated site works

  Permission · Limerick County Council, 20875

• 3 Jul 2019Conditional

  Extension of Permission for Planning Ref. 13/705 and 18/530: change of house design granted planning permission under planning ref. 13/705 from a dormer dwelling house to a single storey dwelling house and associated site works

  Extension of duration · Limerick County Council, 197017

• 22 Feb 2019Conditional

  construction of an extension to dwelling, demolition of outbuilding, renovation of outbuilding and ancillary works, and installation of new septic tank and percolation area

  Permission · Limerick County Council, 19153

• 15 Feb 2019Conditional

  a new dwelling, garage, septic tank, percolation area, entrance and associated works

  Permission, 1 home · Limerick County Council, 19133

• 15 Nov 2018Conditional

  a dwelling house, garage, wastewater treatment system, site entrance and all associated site works above and below ground

  Outline permission, 1 home · Limerick County Council, 181115

• 30 May 2018Conditional

  change of house design granted planning permission under planning ref. 13/705 from a dormer dwelling house to a single storey dwelling house and associated site works

  Permission, 1 home · Limerick County Council, 18530

• 30 Jun 2017Conditional

  to retain and complete substantially completed detached two storey dwelling house which was granted planning permission under Planning Ref No: 08/2213 & permission for new entrance, site boundaries, septic tank, percolation area, and detached garage, including all associated site works

  Retention, 1 home · Limerick County Council, 17616

Source: National Planning Applications, Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage, CC BY 4.0. Applicants are not shown.

Designated sites

• Special Area of Conservation: Lower River Shannon SAC 002165

Recorded monuments

• LI014-014001 Settlement deserted - medieval
  Description

  Situated in undulating pasture land in fields to the E, S and W of Abbey Owney (LI014-014002-), church (LI014-014005-) and graveyard (LI014-014003-). The medieval settlement of Abington stood in fields to the N , NE and S of the Mulkear River in close proximity to a medieval corn mill (LI014-014007-) and 17th century stone bridge (LI014-014008-). The 1656 Down Survey map of Owneybeg barony depicted a cluster of dwellings standing either side of the Mulkear River in close proximity to the ruins of Owneybeg Abbey and the medieval corn mill (NLI, MS 718). On this map a cluster of dwellings representing the medieval settlement of Owneybeg Abbey are shown standing beside the medieval bridge crossing the Mulkear River. The dwellings are depicted on the N and S banks of the river clustered around the fording point of the Mulkear River. These dwellings represented the settlement belonging to ‘The Mannor of Abby Owthneybeg’ as annotated on the Down Survey barony map (ibid.). The terrier of the Down survey map of Abbeyowneybeg parish recorded that in this parish ‘there is an abbey p[ar]te whereof is Thatcht and about thirty Thatch Houses a good Corne Mill and a bridge on the Mannor of Abbeyowthneybegg’ (ibid.). The 30 thatched houses belonging to the manor of Owneybeg stood in the fields to the S and E of Abbey Owney. The Down Survey parish map depicted a cluster of dwelling standing beside the medieval bridge on both sides of the Mulkear River. The 1654-56 Civil Survey of Limerick recorded that in the parish of Abbeyowney there was ‘a Mannor Towne wth the priviledge of a Courte Leete and Courte barron. Ye River of Muilcherne leadinge through the said Towne and a stone bridge thereuppon one Mill two fishing weares a Demolished stone house with two Orchards and a garden upon Rath and Cnocknegurteeny’ (Simington 1938, 3). All of the above monuments stood on lands belonging to Colonel Piers Welsh [Walsh] who is described as an ‘Irish Papist of Abbieowghnie’ (ibid.). In 1681 Thomas Dineley visited Abington and made a drawing of the Cistercian abbey ruins which he showed standing close to a six-arched bridge around which there were a cluster of dwellings representing the medieval settlement of Abbey Owney (Shirley et. al. 1865, 278). In 1907 Rev. Seymour recorded the following about the medieval settlement at Abington, 'Seward, in his " Topographia Hibernica," written in 1795, describes Abington as a fair-town, fair days being May 27th and August 31st. It is hard to say, however, whether this refers to the old town or to the houses which are beside the present church' (Seymour 1907, 367). Earthworks and cropmarks in fields to the S and SE of the abbey which are visible on Digital Globe aerial photograph taken between November 2011 and March 2012 may be related to the medieval settlement of the Manor of Owneybeg. Similar cropmarks to the E, S and W of the graveyard (LI014-014003-) are visible on Cambridge University aerial photographs taken in 1968 (CUCAP AVQ093). Several earthworks are visible on the ground with terracing to the SE of the abbey. In this field there is a possible ridge and furrow system in the N, and a potential house platform (25m N-S; 20m E-W) and hollow way (Wth. 4.4m) were identified in the W quadrant. Compiled by: Caimin O'Brien and Matt Kelleher Date of upload: 28 June 2017

• LI014-014002 Religious house - Cistercian monks
  Description

  Situated on a slight rise of ground immediately S of a medieval parish church (LI014-014005-) and graveyard (LI014-014006-) and 70m N of the Mulkear River, corn mill (LI014-014007-) and 17th century bridge (LI014-014008-). In 1907 Seymour (1907, 180) suggested that the ‘true site of the abbey must be sought a little higher up from the river, where the ground is flat, and it may have stood, in whole or in part, on the site now occupied by the present graveyard (LI014-014006-)’. A deserted medieval settlement (LI014-014001-) appears to have been located in the fields to the SE of the abbey. Two fish weirs (LI014-014014-/-015-) possibly belonging to the abbey were located in the Mulkear River immediately S of the abbey buildings. Cistercian monastery dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary (Cal. papal letters, 1495-1403, 241) known as Mainistir Uaithne, Woney or Owney, the monastery of Abington or Abbey Owney founded by Theobald Walter, Butler of Ireland in 1205 for a colony of monks from Furness in Lancashire (Gwynn and Hadcock 1970, 126). In 1540 a 'Charter for the abbey of the B.V.M. of Wothonia, diocese of Emly, of the Cistercian order, with assent of James, earl of Ormond and Ossory, its founder and patron; transforming it to a secular provostry (prepositura); John Ryane, late abbot, to be provost' (Nicholls 1994, 21). In 1552 a 21 year lease was granted to Walter Ap Howell which included the 'site of the abbey of Wony, county Limerick, lands of Wony, Caslane boenaghe, Killenevnoke, Knocknegurtyn, Ragraige, Anaghe, Kappeynowke, Kappecullyn, and Lismollan, county Limerick; Cloankitt, county Kerry; the rectory of Wony, which extends to the towns of Wony Anaghe, Keppeynowke, Kappecullyn, Lysmolan, and Clonekitte; the rectory of Carkynlishe, extending to Carkynlishe, Brittas and Castelorkyn; the rectory of Killyvoily ; the rectory of Raiordan ; the rectory of Cayrrelly ; the rectory of Tharles, extending to Thurles, Archereston, Brittas, Killenan, Galwolle, Cassesston, and to certain places in Eliogortie; the rectory of Raheille, extending to Raheille, Syan, and Aenytt; the rectory of Wony Ikirryn, extending to Wony Ikyrryn, Twowynne, Monetample, Moyne, Bally[erke], and Garrynele; the rectory of Twoballyissyn, extending to Twoballyissin, Tollo, Ballenetample, Ballynehianes, Ballyneknockan, and Clanclenoiske; the rectory of Enagh in Ormond, extending to Enaghe, Bradir, and Tullaghedde; the rectory of Cnoyaghe in Ormond; the rectory of Arcloo, extending to Arcloo, Kilneyeige, and Kilranellaghe ; and the rectory of Tullaghe, extending to Tollo, Tankardiston, Rathville, Ramore, and Raglass' (ibid., 195). In 1557 a royal pardon as granted to 'Donald O'Mulryan, of the Monastery of Uathine, county Limerick, clerk' (Nicholls 1994, 311). In 1562 a royal grant was issued to Peter Walsh of Grange, Co. Kilkenny which included the 'the site of the abbey of Wony, co. Limerick, the lands of Wony. Caslane Boenagh, Kyllenevenoke, Cnoknegurtyn alias Knocknegustone, Rathereaghe alias Raegreige, Kappennowke alias Kappenowke, Kappecullan, [Lismullan, and Anagh], co. Limerick: and Clonkytt alias Clonkyll, co. Kerry; the rectories of Wony, Carkynleshe, Ballywailye, Raiordane; and Cayrrelly, co. Limerick; Thurles, Raheille, Wony Iskyrryn, Twoballyssyn, Enaghe in Ormond, and Cnoyaghe, co. Tipperary; Arclo and Tullaghfelym, co. Carlow. To hold in fee-farm for ever, by the service of a twentieth part of a knight's fee, at a rent of [£57] 2s: 3d. [Finding curates for the churches, and maintaining one horseman.]' (Nicholls 1994, 51-2). Peter Walsh of Owney died 20 June 1575 and was succeeded by his son and heir Edmund Walsh (ibid. 269). In 1577 a royal pardon was granted to 'Edmund Walsh, of the monastery Owney, co. Limerick' (ibid., 429). The monastic ruins were drawn by Thomas Dineley between 1675-80 (NLI Ms 392). The levelled Cistercian monastery of Abbey Owney appears to have been situated partially beneath the present graveyard (LI014-014006-) and in the field to the S of the graveyard. The two storey high medieval building marked 'Convent' on 1840 ed. OS 6-inch map located 5m S of SW angle of graveyard wall may have been one of the residential buildings belonging to the abbey. Seymour (1907, 180) suggested that this convent building was a house (LI014-014004-) built in the 16th century as a residence for the Walsh family who acquired the lands of Abbey Owney in 1562. This residential tower has punch dressed stonework of 16th century date which suggest that Seymour was correct in identifying the structure as a late medieval house that was converted in the 17th century into a mausoleum for the Walsh family. However it is possible that this building was originally built as part of the abbey that was converted into a residence by the Walsh family in the 16th century. A terrace running E-W in field S of graveyard may represent the S precinct wall of the abbey. Beyond this terrace to the S the surface of the field slopes down to the Mulkear River. It is possible that sections of the levelled abbey may have been located in the field to the W of the graveyard. A row of modern bungalows with garden plots are located immediately N of the graveyard wall. Archaeological trial trenching was undertaken in the field to the N of the modern graveyard extension wall in February 1992 by Celie O'Rahilly (Excavations 1992, 41), who opened two machine trenches, both of which yielded deposits of an archaeological nature and 17th century pottery sherds. In Cut 1, a Charles II copper farthing (1672-9), was recovered. The cuts were located on 2 of 3 ridges aligned north-south and it is possible that these may have been the site of the house (LI014-014012-) built by the Walsh family who acquired the lease on the Abbey lands in 1562. In 1992 further testing by means of resistivity survey was carried out by Martin Byrne in April 1992, but no further features of archaeological interest were detected. In 1994 prior to the constructed of 3 modern bungalows trenches were machine excavated under licence No. 04E0159 in the field to the N of the graveyard wall. The only features of interest were shallow field-drains which were bisected by all of the test trenches. The general environs of ‘Abbey Owney’ was the location for Famine Relief works. Since all the field-drains produced sherds of 19th-century pottery, it is reasonable to assume that they date to the period of the Famine Relief scheme (www.excavations.ie). In 1681 Thomas Dineley described the partial remains of the abbey ruins as following ; 'First, ye Town of Ownhy heretofore inhabited by ye OMulRyans a fragment of whose Inscription is seen upon a monument (LI014-014021-) in ye ruines of the Abby following, the inhabitants of this pt. of Munster, called the OMul-Rians Country, were in ye Reigne of Q. Eliz. ano. 1600, esteemed most notorious traitors, wherefore this Town & several castles & being [sic; qy. buildings] about it were almost layd even with the ground, & the Traytors putt to ye sword. Abby Ony als Owhny anciently an Abbey of the Order of St. Bernard (in going to it is crossed a stone bridge of six arches over ye river). Att the West end whereof is a small Chappel un-roofd belonging to the Walshes, as appears by a fair Monument of black Marble and Inscripcons there. Over the Door at the entrance into it is read as follows under his Armes, dated 1619. Now to returne again into the Ruines of the Abby, observe the following Monument (LI014-014019-/021-) with these Inscripcons also in Roman Capitall Letters, this is erected on the right side the High Altar. On the left side the sayd altar, & opposite to the former is seen this monument (LI014-014020-) but without Inscription' (Shirley 1865, 278-80). In 1841 the Ordnance Survey Letters described the Convent building located immediately S of the SW corner of the graveyard and recorded the following about the remains of Abbey Owney; 'The walls of an old edifice,

• LI014-014003 Graveyard
  Description

  Situated in gently rolling pasture immediately S of Abbey Owney graveyard (LI014-014006-). The site of possible graveyard associated with Abbey Owney (LI014-014002-) located on the crest of a gentle ridge which falls more sharply to the S down towards the Mulkear river. Possible graveyard not marked on any edition of the OS 6-inch maps. According to Seymour (1907, 180) the 'old graveyard is said to have been in the field between the river and the present entrance to the graveyard. Stepney, thinking it a pity that good land should be thus wasted, rooted up all the graves, gathered the coffins and remains together, and tried to burn them. They refused to burn, so he piled them on the river bank, and threw them in when a big flood came down. But the river, as if abhorring such desecration, washed them back again ; so he was at last compelled to bury them at a spot in the field which is now marked by the mound mentioned above'. No surface remains visible of this 'old graveyard' in the field to the S of the graveyard. Immediately S of the existing graveyard (LI014-014006-) and E of the abbey site (LI014-014002-), a raised area (Wth. 20m; H 0.25m) is visible running N-S towards the edge of the natural ridge. The purpose or function of this raised area in unclear. Compiled by: Caimin O'Brien and Matt Kelleher Date of upload: 3 July 2017

• LI014-014004 House - 16th century
  Description

  Standing immediately S of the SW angle of Abbey Owney graveyard (LI014-014006-) overlooking the Mulkear River 90m to the S and adjacent to the site of the levelled Cisterican abbey (LI014-014002-). It has been suggested by Seymour (1907, 180) that this building depicted as a 'Convent' on the 1840 ed. OS 6-inch map was not part of Owney Abbey (LI014-014002-) but was a 16th century house built by the Walsh family who acquired the lands of Owney Abbey in 1562. Seymour recorded that the Convent was 'the remains of a much later dwelling-house, built out of the remains of the abbey, into which the Walsh tomb was moved for some reason or another' (ibid.). In 1841 the Ordnance Survey Letters described the Convent building located immediately S of the SW corner of the graveyard and recorded the following about the remains of Abbey Owney; 'The walls of an old edifice, which the people say belonged to the old Abbey of this place, are still standing to the south of the Protestant Church (LI014-014005-) outside the wall of the Church yard (LI014-014006-). It is divided into two apartments by a wall that runs across the whole breadth. The building ran from east to west the eastern part measuring twenty feet four inches [6.1m] by ten feet ten inches [3.3m] and the western part nineteen and a half feet [6m] by fourteen feet three inches [4.3m]. The side walls are about sixteen feet high [4.8m] and three and a half feet [0.9m] thick. There are two doorways on the south side wall, one opening into each apartment, which consist, the one half of brickwork, and are of a quadrangular form. The materials of this structure are small field stones and cement of lime and sand mortar' (O'Flanagan 1929, 120). Compiled by: Caimin O'Brien and Matt Kelleher Date of upload: 3 July 2017

• LI014-014005 Church
  Description

  Situated on a ridge in rolling pasture overlooking the valley of the Mulkear River 75m to the S. No surface remains visible of Church depicted standing in SW quadrant of graveyard (LI014-014006-) on 1840 ed. OS 6-inch map. The church building is not depicted on any subsequent edition of the OS 6-inch maps. A pathway running E-W leading from the E entrance of the graveyard ran down to the entrance of the church which is depicted as a rectangular building with square shaped building attached to the NW angle. This pathway can still be seen in the graveyard where it survives as a sunken path flanked by two tall yew trees. This church building appears to be the site of the Protestant church mentioned in the Ordnance Survey Letters of 1841 which recorded that; 'The walls of an old edifice, which the people say belonged to the old Abbey (LI014-014002-) of this place, are still standing to the south of the Protestant Church outside the wall of the Church yard (LI014-014006-)' (O'Flanagan 1929, 120). In 1907 the following details were recorded by Rev. Seymour about the parish church of Abington, 'The old parish church stood in the graveyard (LI014-014006-), and is well remembered by the people, though every trace has disappeared. In 1784 "the parishioners had lately put up a new east window." Lewis describes it in 1837 as "a neat, small edifice, without tower or spire." The beautiful little church now in use was built in 1870, on an entirely new site. Opposite its door is the font, and still in use is the church plate, both relics of the old parish church' (Seymour 1907, 365). Compiled by: Caimin O'Brien and Matt Kelleher Date of upload: 29 June 2017

• LI014-014006 Graveyard
  Description

  Situated on a ridge in rolling pasture overlooking the valley of the Mulkear River 75m to the S. The graveyard is still in use and was extended to the E in the 1980s, the modern graveyard extension measures approx. 100m E-W by 35m N-S. Depicted as a rectangular-shaped graveyard (approx. dims. 60m N-S x 80m E-W) on the 1840 ed. OS 6-inch map. The graveyard was enclosed by a post-1700 stone wall which has been removed at E due to the modern graveyard extension. The original graveyard was entered from the E via a pathway leading to the main road as shown on the 1840 ed. OS 6-inch map and now visible as a hollow way flanked by two tall yew trees. On the 1840 ed. OS 6-inch map this pathway lead down to a church (LI014-014005-) which no longer survives. The graveyard contains post-1700 memorials and a levelled church in the SW quadrant. The graveyard appears to stand on part of the footprint of Abbey Owney (LI014-014002-). In 1907 Seymour (1907, 180) suggested that ‘The true site of the abbey must be sought a little higher up from the river, where the ground is flat, and it may have stood, in whole or in part, on the site now occupied by the present graveyard’. The ruins of a Convent associated with the abbey was marked in an area immediately S of the SW corner of the graveyard on the 1840 ed. OS 6-inch map. The graveyard contains architectural fragments of the 13th century abbey that have been inserted in the surface of the graveyard possibly reused as grave markers. The fabric of the graveyard wall also contains architectural fragments belonging to the Cistercian abbey. The graveyard contains several mausolea dating from the 19th century. Compiled by: Caimin O'Brien and Matt Kelleher Date of upload: 29 June 2017

• LI014-014007 Mill - corn
  Description

  Owney Mill is mentioned in 1558 when the 'Earl of Sussex and his retinue came through an old abbey (LI014-014002-) and a mill called Onin O'Mollrye' (Seymour 1907, 177). The mill depicted standing on the N bank of the Mulkear River, 70m S of Abbey Owney (LI014-014002-) on the 1840 ed. OS 6-inch map may stand on site of or incorporate the remains of a medieval corn mill depicted on the 1656 Down Survey map of Owneybeg barony (NLI, MS 718). This map depicted a cluster of dwellings (LI014-014001-) standing either side of the Mulkear River in close proximity to the ruins of Owneybeg Abbey (LI014-014002-), a stone bridge (LI014-014008-) and the medieval corn mill (ibid.). The mill is depicted standing on the N bank of the Mulkear River in a location similar to the mill depicted on the 1840 ed. OS 6-inch map. The medieval mill is depicted with a large waterwheel on the gable of the corn mill. The terrier of the Down survey map of Abbeyowneybeg parish recorded that in this parish ‘there is an abbey p[ar]te whereof is Thatcht and about thirty Thatch Houses a good Corne Mill and a bridge on the Mannor of Abbeyowthneybegg’ (ibid.). The 1654-56 Civil Survey of Limerick recorded that in the parish of Abbeyowney there was ‘a Mannor Towne wth the priviledge of a Courte Leete and Courte barron. Ye River of Muilcherne leadinge through the said Towne and a stone bridge thereuppon one Mill two fishing weares a Demolished stone house with two Orchards and a garden upon Rath and Cnocknegurteeny’ (Simington 1938, 3). No surface remains visible of mill structure depicted on the 1840 ed. OS 6-inch map. A water-filled linear ditch visible on Cambridge University aerial photographs taken 1968 to the E of the mill site may be the remains of a mill-race (CUCAP AVQ093). A linear earthwork to the W of the mill site visible in the aerial photograph could also be related to the mill-race. Compiled by: Caimin O'Brien and Matt Kelleher Date of upload: 28 June 2017

• LI014-014008 Bridge
  Description

  A stone bridge traversing the Mulkear River to the S of the Cistercian Abbey (LI014-014002-), church (LI0114-014005-) and graveyard (LI014-014006-) is depicted on the 1656 Down Survey map of the barony of Owneybeg (NLI, MS 718). The Down Survey map of Owneybeg barony depicted the medieval settlement (LI014-014001-) of Abbeyowney standing either side of the Mulkear River in close proximity to the ruins of Owneybeg Abbey and the medieval corn mill (LI014-014007-) (ibid.). On this map a cluster of dwellings representing the medieval settlement of Owneybeg are shown standing beside the bridge. The terrier of the Down survey map of Abbeyowneybeg parish recorded that in this parish ‘there is an abbey p[ar]te whereof is Thatcht and about thirty Thatch Houses a good Corne Mill and a bridge on the Mannor of Abbeyowthneybegg’ (ibid.). The 1654-56 Civil Survey of Limerick recorded that in the parish of Abbeyowney there was ‘a Mannor Towne wth the priviledge of a Courte Leete and Courte barron. Ye River of Muilcherne leadinge through the said Towne and a stone bridge thereuppon one Mill two fishing weares a Demolished stone house with two Orchards and a garden upon Rath and Cnocknegurteeny’ (Simington 1938, 3). In 1681 Thomas Dineley visited Abington and made a drawing of the abbey ruins which he showed standing beside a six-arched bridge traversing the Mulkear River, a cluster of dwellings representing the medieval settlement (LI014-014001-) of Abbey Owney were shown standing at either end of the bridge (Shirley et. al. 1865, 278). The present road bridge (L 38m; Wth. 6m; wall T 0.4m) over the Mulkear River stands 170m SSE of the abbey (LI014-014001-) and was described by the National Inventory of Architectural Heritage [NIAH] as a 'Six-arch limestone road bridge over the River Mulkear, built c. 1740, with earlier fabric. Rubble limestone and sandstone walls with limestone cappings and inscribed limestone plaque to west parapet wall. Roughly dressed limestone voussoirs to round-headed arches. Rubble limestone V-cutwaters to east elevation' (wwww.buildingsoireland.ie). The bridge was described by Simington and O'Keeffe (1991, 200) as a bridge of 'six arches with the piers almost equal to the spans. The arches are nearly semi-circular and the roadway overhead is level. The spans are about 15ft [4.5m]. It is a substantial bridge, probably dating from the first half of the 18th century. There is a plaque [LI014-014013-] set in the parapet. It is about 2ft 6in [0.76m] long by 2ft [0.6m] high and the letters are almost illegible. It does not belong to this bridge but to an earlier one which previously spanned the river about a quarter of a mile downstream'. Simington and O'Keeffe (1991, 200-01) stated that 'The most interesting feature of Dineley's sketch of the bridge is the raised battlement on the centre pier on the upriver parapet. It appears to be perforated. It resembles the high section of parapet on Gormanstown Bridge previously described and could have been a raised battlement. The most likely explanation is that it was the plaque (LI014-014013-) housed in a niche'. However Barry (1890, 50) stated that the present bridge dates from 1621 and he recorded that, 'The bridge still remains, which was erected by Lady Ellice Walsh after the death of her husband, the then proprietor, who was drowned here in 1618, according to an inscription on his tomb, which is still in a fair state of preservation. A slab, containing the arms of Walsh, and the following inscription, is inserted in the battlements of the bridge - " The Arms of Sir Edmund Walsh and his wife, Ellice Grace, who erected this bridge, after the death of her husband, for devotione and charitie, praying passengers to pray for the rest of their soules in Heaven, A.D. 1621." This bridge has six arches ; it was widened by adding to the south side about 120 years ago'. The semi-circular shaped arches are very similar to the arches drawn by Thomas Dineley in 1681. There is evidence of a straight joint underneath the arches of the bridge indicating that the bridge was widened on the E side in the 18th century (Seymour 1907, 179). It is likely that part of the W half of the present bridge dates from the 17th century and is contemporaneous with the 17th-century armorial plaque (LI014-014013-) of the Walsh family of Abbeyowney which is visible in the W parapet wall. However it has been suggested that the 17th century bridge was located closer to the medieval corn mill, weir and Cistercian Abbey. In 1865 it was recorded that 'The present bridge of Abington is not the one shown on the drawing of the abbey; the ancient bridge probably stood higher up, but below the weir; the inscribed stone was removed from that bridge, on the top of the parapet of which it seems to have been raised to its present position, built into the parapet of the present bridge, which I think has but five arches' (Shirley 1865, 278). Simington and O'Keeffe (1991, 200) recorded that only one bridge was depicted on Moll's map of 1714, but two bridges were depicted in 1778 on Taylor and Skinner's road map from Loughrea to Bruff which led them to suggest that the present road bridge was constructed between these two dates. The remains of this second bridge (LI014-014016-) are located approx. 200m W of the present road bridge. The linear cropmark of a roadway leading to this 18th century bridge can be seen in the field to the S of the Mulkear River. The linear earthwork visible on the Digital Globe aerial photograph appears to be the remains of the 18th century roadway shown on Taylor and Skinner's road map (Taylor and Skinner 1778, map No. 210). The NIAH suggested that the present road bridge dated from the first half of the 18th century but incorporated fabric from an earlier bridge. The present location of the bridge matches closely the location drawn by Thomas Dineley. The present bridge appears to have been built in 1621 on the site of a medieval fording point of the Mulkear River and was widened on the E side in the 18th century. In the early 18th century a second bridge (LI014-014016-) was constructed crossing the Mulkear River which was located approx. 200m W of the present bridge. Compiled by: Caimin O'Brien and Matt Kelleher Date of upload: 28 June 2017

• LI014-014010 Castle - unclassified
  Description

  The precise location of Owney Castle in the townland of Abington has not been identified. The medieval castle was probably located somewhere close to the medieval settlement (LI014-014001-) of Owney possibly between Abington bridge (LI014-014008-) and the Cistercian abbey (LI014-014002-) of Owney (Seymour 1907, 367). In 1452 the annals recorded that 'The Earl of Ormond, Lord Justice of Ireland, broke down the castle of Owny upon O'Mulrian' (AFM, 979). Compiled by: Caimin O'Brien and Matt Kelleher Date of upload: 3 July 2017

• LI014-014011 Mausoleum
  Description

  Situated on a terrace in gently undulating pasture immediately S of Abbey Owney graveyard (LI014-014006-) and abbey (LI014-014002-) c. 30m N of the Mulkear River with good views to S and W. No surface remains visible of any mound in field to E of the building marked as 'Convent on the 1840 ed. OS 6-inch map. According to Seymour (1907, 180 ), 'The old graveyard (LI014-014003-) is said to have been in the field between the river and the present entrance to the graveyard (LI014-014006-). Stepney, thinking it a pity that good land should be thus wasted, rooted up all the graves, gathered the coffins and remains together, and tried to burn them. They refused to burn, so he piled them on the river bank, and threw them in when a big flood came down. But the river, as if abhorring such desecration, washed them back again; so he was at last compelled to bury them at a spot in the field which is now marked by the mound'. Seymour (1907, 165) recorded that the mound was located between the E wall of the Walsh mausoleum (LI014-014004-) marked as 'Convent' on the 1840 ed. OS 6-inch map and the public road where 'there is a mound, resembling a small tumulus'. According to Seymour (1907, 363) 'two curious figures' 'were dug out of the mound outside the graveyard, and that they formed part of the Barry mausoleum (LI014-014018-). They represent nude, armless, female figures in very high relief, and appear to be copies of Sheela-na-gigs intended by the sculptor to be placed on each side of a tomb'. The mound appears to have been formed from the collapsed rubble of the Barry family mausoleum. In 1865 the following description regarding the Barry memorial mentions this mound which was described as following; 'In a mound of rubbish, my brother thinks that portions of some of the other monuments might be found, as he remembers, on a small portion of it being dug, the two little pillars represented in the drawing of the Barry mausoleum were found, quite in good preservation. He was a few years ago looking for a portion of the Barry monument, and a richly carved stone, both of which he had seen used as head stones; but the churchyard had become so overgrown with grass or weeds, that he could not find them, but he and I both perfectly remember them there' (Shirley et. al. 1865, 277-78). Seymour (1907, 363) described these fragments as following; 'two curious figures' 'were dug out of the mound outside the graveyard, and that they formed part of the Barry mausoleum. They represent nude, armless, female figures in very high relief, and appear to be copies of Sheela-na-gigs intended by the sculptor to be placed on each side of a tomb'. The two columns (LI014-014026-/027-) decorated with caryatid like figures can be seen in the SW quadrant of Abington graveyard (LI014-014006-). Craig described this monument as following; 'Just outside old graveyard, a seventeenth century mausoleum with squat ionic columns. Inside the graveyard two early nineteenth century cut-stone mausolea, and two smaller ones much overgrown' (Craig 1975, 418). Compiled by: Caimin O'Brien and Matt Kelleher Date of upload: 3 July 2017

• LI014-014012 House - 16th century
  Description

  A row of modern bungalows with garden plots are located immediately N of Abbey Owney graveyard (LI014-014003-) wall. Archaeological trial trenching was undertaken in the field to the N of the modern graveyard extension in February 1992 by Celie O'Rahilly (Excavations 1992, 41), who opened two machine trenches, both of which yielded deposits of an archaeological nature and 17th century pottery sherds. In Cut 1, a Charles II copper farthing (1672-9), was recovered. The cuts were located on 2 of 3 ridges aligned north-south and it is possible that these may have been the site of the house (LI014-014006-) built by the Walsh family who acquired the lease on the Abbey lands in 1562 (Seymour 1907, 177). Compiled by: Caimin O'Brien and Matt Kelleher Date of upload: 3 July 2017

• LI014-014013 Inscribed stone
  Description

  A stone bridge (LI014-014008-) built in 1621 is shown traversing the Mulkear River to the S of Abbey Owney (LI014-014002-) on the 1656 Down Survey map of the barony of Owneybeg (NLI, MS 718). The Down Survey map of Owneybeg barony depicted the medieval settlement (LI014-014001-) of Abbeyowney standing either side of the Mulkear River in close proximity to the ruins of Owneybeg Abbey and the medieval corn mill (LI014-014007-) (ibid.). In 1681 Thomas Dineley visited the Abbey and made a drawing of the abbey ruins which he showed standing beside a six-arch bridge around which there were a cluster of dwellings representing the medieval settlement of Abbey Owney (Shirley et. al. 1865, 278). The present road bridge over the Mulkear River stands 170m SSE of the Cistercian abbey (LI014-014001-) and was described by the National Inventory of Architectural Heritage as a 'Six-arch limestone road bridge over the River Mulkear, built c. 1740, with earlier fabric. Rubble limestone and sandstone walls with limestone cappings and inscribed limestone plaque to west parapet wall. Roughly dressed limestone voussoirs to round-headed arches. Rubble limestone V-cutwaters to east elevation' (wwww.buildingsoireland.ie). The inscribed plaque visible in the W parapet wall of the bridge is a 17th-century memorial plaque commemorating the death of Sir Edmund Walsh in 1618. The inscription was recorded by Dineley in 1681 as follows; 'The Armes of Sr. Edmund Walsh als Grace Knight and his wife Ellyce Walsh als Grace who erected this Bridge after the death of hir husband for Devotione and Charitie praying passengers to praye for the rest of their Soules in Heaven' (Shirley et. al. 1865, 277). This plaque was signed by its maker 'Patricius Kearing' and dated 1621. Loeber suggested that the cut limestone often referred to as marble for the memorials in Abington graveyard came from quarries in the barony of Clanwilliam (Loeber 1981, 278). The marble quarry (LI023-339----) of Caherline and Ballyhobin mentioned in the Civil Survey of 1654-56 may have supplied the stone for these memorials (Simington 1938, 74). It has been suggested that the stone plaque is not in its original location and that it was removed from the 17th century bridge located further upstream and inserted into the current bridge in the 18th century. In 1865 it was first suggested that 'the ancient bridge probably stood higher up, but below the weir; the inscribed stone was removed from that bridge, on the top of the parapet of which it seems to have been raised to its present position, built into the parapet of the present bridge, which I think has but five arches' (Shirley 1865 278). The inscription on the plaque is now illegible as it was in 1866 when it was recorded that 'there was an inscription now almost totally defaced, on the bridge of Abington; it is supposed to have referred to the building or repairs of it by the Walsh family' (Lenihan 1866, 719). The plaque was described by Simington and O'Keeffe (1991, 200) as following 'There is a plaque set in the parapet. It is about 2ft 6in. [0.76m] long by 2ft [0.6m] high and the letters are almost illegible. It does not belong to this bridge but to an earlier one which previously spanned the river about a quarter of a mile downstream. The letters are in bas relief and about 1.5 in. [0.06m] high. It reads: "The arms of Sir Edward Walsh and his wife Ellyce Walsh, also Grace Knight who erected this bridge after the death of her husband for devotione and Charitie prayinge passangers to praye for the rest of their Soules in Heaven AD 1621." The plaque came from the six-arch bridge which spanned the river at the former Cistercian abbey of Abington'. Simington and O'Keeffe (1991, 200-01) stated that 'The most interesting feature of Dineley's sketch of the bridge is the raised battlement on the centre pier on the upriver parapet. It appears to be perforated. It resembles the high section of parapet on Gormanstown Bridge previously described and could have been a raised battlement. The most likely explanation is that it was the plaque housed in a niche'. In 1890 Barry (1890, 50) recorded the existence of these battlements on the bridge when he recorded that a 'slab, containing the arms of Walsh, and the following inscription, is inserted in the battlements of the bridge : "The Arms of Sir Edmund Walsh and his wife, Ellice Grace, who erected this bridge, after the death of her husband, for devotione and charitie, praying passengers to pray for the rest of their soules in Heaven, a.d. 1621". This bridge has six arches ; it was widened by adding to the south side about 120 years ago.' In 1907 Rev. Seymour recorded the following details about the plaque; 'next stone of interest is the one on the bridge (LI014-014008-). This, in Dyneley's time, stood on the parapet; but when the bridge was widened, it was inserted in the wall. It is almost illegible owing to exposure to the weather. It bears the following inscription (taken from Dyneley), the only one in old English characters, on the left of which are the Walsh and Grace arms impaled: The armes of Sr Edmund Walsh knight and hys wife Ellyce Walsh als Grace who erected this Bridge after the Death of hir husband for Devotione and Charitie prayinge passengers to pray for the rest of their Soules in Heaven. 1621 Patricius Kearin me fabricavit' (Seymour 1907, 364). Patrick O'Kerin was the son of Walter O'Kerin who belonged to O'Kerin school of monumental sculpture in the Ossory region in late 16th and early 17th century (Phelan 1996, 167). The W half of the present bridge appears to date from the 17th century and is probably contemporaneous with the plaque now located midway along the W parapet wall of Abington Bridge. The bridge was widened in the 18th century and possibly the plaque was taken out of its original structure above the parapet wall and then inserted into the base of the present parapet wall. Compiled by: Caimin O'Brien and Matt Kelleher Date of upload: 28 June 2017

• LI014-014014 Weir - fish
  Description

  The precise location of a medieval fish weir in the Mulkear River to the S of Owney Abbey (LI014-014002-) has not been identified. This monument was one of two fish weirs (LI014-014014-/015-) mentioned in the 1654-56 Civil Survey of Limerick which recorded that in the parish of Abbeyowney there was ‘a Mannor Towne (LI014-014001-) wth the priviledge of a Courte Leete and Courte barron. Ye River of Muilcherne leadinge through the said Towne and a stone bridge (LI014-014008-) thereuppon one Mill (LI014-014007-) two fishing weares’ (Simington 1938, 3). The fish weir depicted on the 1840 ed. OS 6-inch map may have been built on the site of or incorporated remains of the medieval fish weir. The second weir (LI014-014015-) may have been located approx. 120m to the E. The two fishing weirs may be indicated by the two islands depicted on the 1900 ed. OS 25-inch map. Compiled by: Caimin O'Brien and Matt Kelleher Date of upload: 29 June 2017

• LI014-014015 Weir - fish
  Description

  The precise location of a medieval fish weir in the Mulkear River to the S of Owney Abbey (LI014-014002-) has not been identified. This monument was one of two fish weirs (LI014-014014-/-015-) mentioned in the 1654-56 Civil Survey of Limerick which recorded that in the parish of Abbeyowney there was ‘a Mannor Towne (LI014-014001-) wth the priviledge of a Courte Leete and Courte barron. Ye River of Muilcherne leadinge through the said Towne and a stone bridge (LI014-014008-) thereuppon one Mill (LI014-014007-) two fishing weares’ (Simington 1938, 3). The fish weir depicted on the 1840 ed. OS 6-inch map may have been built on the site of or incorporated remains of the medieval fish weir. The second weir (LI014-014014-) may have been located approx. 120m to the W. The two fishing weirs may be indicated by the two islands depicted on the 1900 ed. OS 25-inch map. Compiled by: Caimin O'Brien and Matt Kelleher Date of upload: 29 June 2017

• LI014-014016 Bridge
  Description

  18th century bridge crossing the Mulkear River to the SW of Abbey Owney (LI014-014002-), 17th century bridge (LI014-014008-) located 200m to the E. Simington and O'Keeffe (1991, 200) recorded that only one bridge at Abington was depicted on Moll's map of 1714, but two bridges were depicted in 1778 on Taylor and Skinner's road map from Loughrea to Bruff which led them to suggest that the present road bridge (LI014-014008-) at Abington was constructed between these two dates. However the presence of this second bridge on the Mulkear River suggests that this structure was the new bridge built in the 18th century, while the 17th century bridge was widened at this time. A linear cropmark of a disused roadway leading to this 18th century bridge can be seen in the field to the S of the Mulkear River. The linear earthwork visible on the Digital Globe aerial photograph appears to be the remains of the 18th century roadway shown on Taylor and Skinner's road map (Taylor and Skinner 1778, map No. 210). The bridge is no longer used and has concrete breakwaters with timber planks supported on iron girders when it was used as a livestock crossing. Compiled by: Caimin O'Brien and Matt Kelleher Date of upload: 30 June 2017

• LI014-014017 Wall monument
  Description

  The convent building marked on the 1840 ed. OS 6-inch map is the same building described by Thomas Dineley in 1681 as 'a small Chappel unroof'd belonging to the Walshes, as appears by a fair Monument of black marble and Inscripcons there. Over the Door at the entrance into it is read as follows under his Armes, dated 1619: - The Armes of Sr Edmond Walshe Knight, and hys Ladye Ellyce Grace. The Letters show what Images are thereon engraven : - B. St. Peter D. St. Bernard R. Sancta Maria Mater S. Maria Magdalena. The Inscription at large is after this manner' (Shirley et. al. 1865, 279). The partial remains of the wall memorial belonging to the Walsh family has been inserted into the N wall of a medieval building when this building was converted into a mausoleum for the Walsh family of Abbey Owney. This wall monument commemorating the death of Edmund Walsh bears a Latin inscription dated 1618 and is signed by its maker Patrick Kearin. This monumental sculptor also carved the tomb of Archbishop Miler Magrath at Cashel and a memorial to Walter Bourk at Glankeen church in Borrisoleigh, Co. Tipperary (Shirley et. al. 1865, 277). Patrick O'Kerin was the son of Walter O'Kerin who belonged to O'Kerin school of monumental sculpture in the Ossory region in late 16th and early 17th century (Phelan 1996, 167; Loeber 1981, 290, Plate XI). This memorial was drawn by Thomas Dineley between 1675-80, see attached image of drawing taken from Loeber (Loeber 1981, Plate XI, NLI Ms 392). Loeber suggested that the cut limestone often referred to as marble for the memorials in Abington graveyard came from quarries in the barony of Clanwilliam (Loeber 1981, 278). The marble quarry (LI023-339----) of Caherline and Ballyhobin mentioned in the Civil Survey of 1654-56 may have supplied the stone for these memorials (Simington 1938, 74). In 1865 this building and its wall monument was described as following; 'The only portion of the abbey now remaining is the small roofless chapel, containing the monument of Sir Edmund Walsh: some ten or twelve years ago, when I last saw it, the monument was in fair preservation, and most of the inscription still legible' (Shirley et. al. 1865, 277-78). The inscription on this wall memorial was translated by Seymour (1907, 360) who described the wall monument as following; Immediately above this inscription, and at an obtuse angle to it, are two small slabs, each of which has a representation of a grotesque human head amongst vine-branches and grape-clusters. On the right hand side of the inscription, and at right angles to it, is a stone which has carved on it a figure clasping the emblems of the Passion, above which runs in a semicircle the inscription SAINBERNARD. This represents St. Bernard, the founder of the Cistercian Order, and it would appear, from Dyneley's notes that there were three other similar figures representing St. Peter, the Virgin, and St. Mary Magdalene, which have entirely disappeared. On either side of the tomb are two plain pillars, and on the slabs at the back of them there is an orderly arrangement of squares and flowers. On the stone canopy overhanging the inscription are depicted a number of little figures, each with a semicircular inscription over it; they evidently represent saints, but the lettering is too illegible to be made out. On the same canopy are carved five coats-of arms'. See attached images for translation of Latin inscription as given by Seymour and photograph of wall monument taken early 1900s. This wall monument was recently described by Cockerham as comprising of a 'comprising a sarcophagus base, a middle tier with an architectural blind façade of pilasters supporting an architrave and a large panel behind inscribed in Roman capitals with a short factual account of the deceased and a set of verses. An arcade of three round-headed arches once fronted this layer, with plain Doric columns supporting a heavy entablature and cornice. The multi-storied composition, the arcading of the middle tier, the back inscription panels, the incorporation of saints' figures, and the lightly incised decorative panels, are all particularly close to the Shee/Rothe tombs in Kilkenny' (Cockerham 2009, 311). Fragments of this 17th century wall monument have been taken from Abington and are now incorporated into a shelter of a mass rock in the townland of Cappercullen. The image of St. Bernard carved on a slab described above by Thomas Dineley in 1681 and by Rev. Seymour in 1907 can now be seen at Cappercullen mass rock (LI007-014---). The scroll brackets incorporated into the mass rock shelter would also appear to belong to the 17th century wall memorial of the Walsh family. Compiled by: Caimin O'Brien and Matt Kelleher based on details kindly provided by Derek Ryan Date of upload: 30 June 2017

• LI014-014018 Wall monument
  Description

  The present location of a 17th century memorial belonging to Dulamus Barry has not been identified. This memorial was located in the church of Owney Abbey (LI014-014002-) which may have stood on the site of the present graveyard (LI014-014006-). In 1907 Seymour recorded the location of this stone which he stated were situated 'In the graveyard (LI014-014006-) adjoining the ruins there are some interesting stones, which lie along the side nearest the mound (LI014-014011-) and the ruins. Lying near a modern white marble tombstone is the Barry stone mentioned by Dyneley. Lying beside this stone, is another carved slab which may have formed part of the same tomb. It has upon it in high relief our Lord on the Cross, and on either side a draped figure, representing the Virgin and St. John' (Seymour 1907, 362-3). This latter fragment which may have formed part of the Barry tomb surround is now located beside the mass rock at Cappercullen where it has been built into the fabric of a modern stone shelter. This monument may have been the work of Patrick O'Kerin, son of Walter O'Kerin who belonged to O'Kerin school of monumental sculpture in the Ossory region in late 16th and early 17th century (Phelan 1996, 167; Loeber 1981, 287, Plate XI). This memorial was drawn by Thomas Dineley between 1675-80, see attached image of drawing taken from Loeber (Loeber 1981, Plate XI, NLI Ms 392). Loeber suggested that the cut limestone often referred to as marble for the memorials in Abington graveyard came from quarries in the barony of Clanwilliam (Loeber 1981, 278). The marble quarry (LI023-339----) of Caherline and Ballyhobin mentioned in the Civil Survey of 1654-56 may have supplied the stone for these memorials (Simington 1938, 74). The Barry monument was described in 1681 by Thomas Dineley as 'being of the mural and table forms combined on it is a shield bearing the arms Barry (apparently of six), argent and gules, a crescent for difference with the date 1633. The crest is rudely drawn, but resembles a castle, possibly the Barry crest - out of a carte argent a wolf's head sable. What is wrote in this last monument is all in Roman Capitalls. It is erected on the left hand, in a Chappel going up to ye Altar of ye Abbatial Church. Inscription on the Barry monument: "NOBILIS ADMODUM DULAMUS BARRY / IN HONOREM SUORUM PARENTUM SUI IPSIUS / UXORIS JOANNAE BOURCK ET FILIORUM/ SUORUM HOC SEPULCHRUM FIERI CURAVIT./ ANTIQUA GENITUS BARII DE STIRPE DULAMUS / QUIQUE APOLLINEA DOCTUS IN ARTE VIGET / QUIQUE FIDE PLENUS NUSQAM LANGUENTIBUS AEGRIS / DEFUIT ET PATRIAM QUALIBET AUXIT OPE / HAEC PIUS EXTINCTIS MONUMENTA PARENTIBUS AFFERT / QUAE SIBI QUAEQUE DEIUSINT [SIC] MONUMENTA SUIS / TU QUI CERNIS OPUS MORTIS MEMOR ESTO FUTURAE / DIC PRAECOR [HAC VI]VANT QUI TUMULATUR HUMO". This last Monument and Inscripcon are seen in the little Chappell without the West end of the Abby of Owhny, or Anthony's Abby' (Shirley et. al. 1865, 280). The translation of this inscription reads as follows; 'The very noble Donal Barry caused this Monument to be erected in honour of his Parents, of himself, of his wife Joanna Bourke, and their sons. Donal, born of the Ancient Race of Barry, who flourished learned in Apollo's Art, and being full of faith never failed to succour the infirm and the sick ; and served his country with all his might ; he duteously erects this Monument to his deceased Parents, that it may serve also as a tomb for himself and afterwards for his children. Do thou who viewest this work be mindful of approaching death. Pray, I beseech you, that they may live who are buried in this earth' (Barry 1890, 50). In 1865 the memorial was described as following; 'In a mound of rubbish, my brother thinks that portions of some of the other monuments might be found, as he remembers, on a small portion of it being dug, the two little pillars represented in the drawing of the Barry mausoleum were found, quite in good preservation. He was a few years ago looking for a portion of the Barry monument, and a richly carved stone, both of which he had seen used as head stones; but the churchyard had become so overgrown with grass or weeds, that he could not find them, but he and I both perfectly remember them there' (Shirley et. al. 1865, 277-78). Seymour described these fragments as following; 'two curious figures' 'were dug out of the mound (LI014-014011-) outside the graveyard, and that they formed part of the Barry mausoleum. They represent nude, armless, female figures in very high relief, and appear to be copies of Sheela-na-gigs intended by the sculptor to be placed on each side of a tomb'. In 1908 Barry (1908, 73) photographed the armorial stone and described it as following; 'Three bars gemelle gules and in chief a crescent azure for difference." When I first saw this stone in 1877, it was fixed as an altar-tomb, and had the finely-carved slab, accurately described by Mr. Seymour, fixed at the head of it, and the two curious female figures on pillars at each side. I was informed by an old man named Hayes that these figures have been removed to Clonshavoy House, with other carved stones; but, as they "ever and always" formed part of the Barry tomb, in which he was interested, he brought them back and re-erected them in situ himself'. Compiled by: Caimin O'Brien and Matt Kelleher Date of upload: 30 June 2017

• LI014-014019 Wall monument
  Description

  The precise location of a 17th century wall monument belonging to the Fitzgerald family within the graveyard (LI014-014006-) of Abbey Owney (LI014-014002-) has not been identified. In 1681 Thomas Dineley described the wall tomb which he recorded as following ; 'Now to returne again into the Ruines of the Abby, observe the following Monument with these Inscripcons also in Roman Capitall Letters, this is erected on the right side the High Altar, on the top whereof read: STEMMA AMINES GIBBON ALS GERALD FILIAE MILITIS ALEI. Some read it Stemma Aminae Gibbon Fitz Gerald filiae militis albi. The White Knight, the knight of Kerry so call'd, was a descendent from Desmond '(Shirley et. al. 1865, 280-1). Compiled by: Caimin O'Brien and Matt Kelleher Date of upload: 30 June 2017

• LI014-014020 Wall monument
  Description

  The precise location of a wall monument possibly belonging to the FitzWalter family within the graveyard (LI014-014006-) of Abbey Owney (LI014-014002-) has not been identified. In 1681 Thomas Dineley described the wall tomb as following ; 'On the left side the sayd altar, & opposite to the former (LI014-014019-) is seen this monument, but without Inscription' (Shirley et. al. 1865, 281). This tomb was located opposite the O'Mulryan wall monument (LI014-014021-) and was described by Westropp (1904-5, 437) as 'a double recess with trefoil arches and an ornamental hood, topped by a rose'. Loeber suggested that the cut limestone often referred to as marble for the memorials in Abington graveyard came from quarries in the barony of Clanwilliam (Loeber 1981, 278). The marble quarry (LI023-339----) of Caherline and Ballyhobin mentioned in the Civil Survey of 1654-56 may have supplied the stone for these memorials (Simington 1938, 74). Compiled by: Caimin O'Brien and Matt Kelleher Date of upload: 30 June 2017

• LI014-014021 Wall monument
  Description

  The precise location of a 17th century wall monument dating from 1632 belonging to the O'Mulryan family within the graveyard (LI014-014006-) of Abbey Owney (LI014-014002-) has not been identified. In 1681 Thomas Dineley described the wall tomb which he recorded as following ; 'Here follows a drawing of a monument of mural and table form combined bearing the above line, and first words of the following inscription: - NOBILISSIMUS DNUS GULIELMUS RIIANI PATRIAE SUAE / DE OWNHII NEC NON ANTIQUE RIIANORUM FAMILIAE CAPUT / ET PRINCEPS SIBI UXOEI ET LIBERIS SUIS HANC SEPULCHRI / MOLEM ERIGI CURAVIT '(Shirley et. al. 1865, 281). Westropp (1904-05, 437) recorded that 'to the left as you went up to the altar of the abbatial church' (LI014-014002-). William Brian's (Mulryan's) monument, 1632, was to the right of the altar'. Loeber suggested that the cut limestone often referred to as marble for the memorials in Abington graveyard came from quarries in the barony of Clanwilliam (Loeber 1981, 278). The marble quarry (LI023-339----) of Caherline and Ballyhobin mentioned in the Civil Survey of 1654-56 may have supplied the stone for these memorials (Simington 1938, 74). Compiled by: Caimin O'Brien and Matt Kelleher Date of upload: 30 June 2017

• LI014-014022 Tomb - chest tomb
  Description

  The side panel of an altar tomb or chest tomb decorated with blind ogee-headed panel and lierne vaulting of possible 16th century date that was probably located inside Abbey Owney (LI014-014002-) but is now incorporated within a modern stone shelter covering the mass rock (LI007-014----) at Cappercullen. Similar lierne vaulting pattern can be seen on MacGillaptrick effigial tomb (KK008-047007-) at Grangefertagh Church (KK008-047001-), Co. Kilkenny dating from 1510-40 (Hunt 1974, 167). The carved image of St. Bernard incorporated into this shelter came from the Walsh wall monument (LI014-014017-) in their mausoleum at Owney Abbey (LI014-014002-) while the crucifixion scene may have come from the 17th century Barry wall tomb (Seymour 1907, 363). Loeber suggested that the cut limestone often referred to as marble for the memorials in Abington graveyard came from quarries in the barony of Clanwilliam (Loeber 1981, 278). The marble quarry (LI023-339----) of Caherline and Ballyhobin mentioned in the Civil Survey of 1654-56 may have supplied the stone for these memorials (Simington 1938, 74). Compiled by: Caimin O'Brien and Matt Kelleher based on details kindly provided by Derek Ryan. Date of upload: 3 July 2017

• LI014-014023 Headstone
  Description

  The precise location of a possible 17th century headstone in Abbey Owney graveyard (LI014-014006-) cannot be identified. In 1907 Seymour recorded that the headstone was located close to the Barry wall monument (LI014-014018-) in Abbey Owney graveyard. He recorded the following details about the slab 'Following on in the same direction a curious little upright tombstone will be found. It is about 17 inches [0.43m] high by 11 [0.27m] wide, with rounded top, and represents a winged figure standing on a pedestal, blowing a trumpet, which is held in the left hand, while the right grasps a pair of scales. This is surrounded by foliage, and the whole is in low relief. Underneath is a blank space of about 5 inches, apparently intended for an inscription, which was never cut' (Seymour 1907, 363). Compiled by: Caimin O'Brien and Matt Kelleher Date of upload: 3 July 2017

• LI014-014024 Armorial plaque
  Description

  The precise location of the armorial plaque taken from doorway of the Walsh family mausoleum and was reused as a headstone in Abbey Owney graveyard (LI014-014006-) cannot be identified. In 1907 Seymour recorded that the armorial plaque was located close to the Barry wall monument (LI014-014018-) in Abbey Owney graveyard. He recorded the following details about the plaque, 'Next there is a square upright slab, now doing duty as a tombstone, with the arms of Walsh impaling Grace as in shield No. 1, and the crest a swan sejant. It has carved on it the following (taken from Dyneley, as the original is almost covered) : THE ARMES OF SIR EDMUND WALSH KNIGHT AND HYS LADYE ELLYCE GRACE. Enough, however, is exposed to show that it is written in raised Roman letters, not in old English, as Dyneley gives it. He says this stone was over the door going into the chapel (LI014-014004-) where the Walsh tomb was, and that the date 1619 was on it' (Seymour 1907, 363). Loeber suggested that the cut limestone often referred to as marble for the memorials in Abington graveyard came from quarries in the barony of Clanwilliam (Loeber 1981, 278). The marble quarry (LI023-339----) of Caherline and Ballyhobin mentioned in the Civil Survey of 1654-56 may have supplied the stone for these memorials (Simington 1938, 74). Compiled by: Caimin O'Brien and Matt Kelleher Date of upload: 3 July 2017

• LI014-014025 Graveslab
  Description

  The precise location of a cross-inscribed graveslab in Abbey Owney graveyard (LI014-014006-) cannot be identified. In 1907 Seymour recorded that the graveslab was located close to the Barry wall monument (LI014-014018-) in Abbey Owney graveyard. He recorded the following details about the graveslab, 'Beyond this are a few pieces of cut stone, and a slab on which is carved a raised four-point cross, the arms bound in a circle which is intertwined with them' (Seymour 1907, 363). Compiled by: Caimin O'Brien and Matt Kelleher Date of upload: 3 July 2017

• LI014-014026 Architectural fragment
  Description

  Two columns with caryatid like figures which formed part of the altar-tomb surround in the mausoleum (LI014-014011-) belonging to Dulamus Barry who died in 1633 are now in the SW quadrant of Abington graveyard (LI014-014006-). One of the columns lies flat on the surface of the graveyard while the other one (LI014-014027-) stands upright. The tomb was still intact in 1887 when it was photographed and described as an altar-tomb that had ‘fixed at the head of it, and the two curious female figures on pillars at each side. I was informed by an old man named Hayes that these figures have been removed to Clonshavoy House, with other carved stones; but, as they "ever and always" formed part of the Barry tomb, in which he was interested, he brought them back and re-erected them in situ himself ’ (Barry 1908, 73-4). The carved columns were described by Seymour (1907, 363) as following; ‘Lying beside this stone, is another carved slab which may have formed part of the same tomb. It has upon it in high relief our Lord on the Cross, and on either side a draped figure, representing the Virgin and St. John. A little beyond this are two curious figures, which appear to be the ones alluded to by W. R. Le Fanu in his note in the Kilkenny Journal. He says they were dug out of the mound outside the graveyard, and that they formed part of the Barry mausoleum. They represent nude, armless, female figures in very high relief, and appear to be copies of Sheela-na-gigs intended by the sculptor to be placed on each side of a tomb’. According to Dineley the Barry tomb was ‘ erected on the left hand, in a Chappel going up to ye altar of ye Abbatial Church" (Seymour 1907, 363). Compiled by: Caimin O'Brien with details kindly provided by Colmán Ó Clabaigh of Glenstal Abbey. Date of upload: 3 August 2017

• LI014-014027 Architectural fragment
  Description

  Two columns with caryatid like figures which formed part of the altar-tomb surround in the mausoleum (LI014-014011-) belonging to Dulamus Barry who died in 1633 are now in the SW quadrant of Abington graveyard (LI014-014006-). One of the columns (LI014-014026-) lies flat on the surface of the graveyard while the other one stands upright. The tomb was still intact in 1887 when it was photographed and described as an altar-tomb that had ‘fixed at the head of it, and the two curious female figures on pillars at each side. I was informed by an old man named Hayes that these figures have been removed to Clonshavoy House, with other carved stones; but, as they "ever and always" formed part of the Barry tomb, in which he was interested, he brought them back and re-erected them in situ himself ’ (Barry 1908, 73-4). The carved columns were described by Seymour (1907, 363) as following; ‘Lying beside this stone, is another carved slab which may have formed part of the same tomb. It has upon it in high relief our Lord on the Cross, and on either side a draped figure, representing the Virgin and St. John. A little beyond this are two curious figures, which appear to be the ones alluded to by W. R. Le Fanu in his note in the Kilkenny Journal. He says they were dug out of the mound outside the graveyard, and that they formed part of the Barry mausoleum. They represent nude, armless, female figures in very high relief, and appear to be copies of Sheela-na-gigs intended by the sculptor to be placed on each side of a tomb’. According to Dineley the Barry tomb was ‘ erected on the left hand, in a Chappel going up to ye altar of ye Abbatial Church" (Seymour 1907, 363). Compiled by: Caimin O'Brien with details kindly provided by Colmán Ó Clabaigh of Glenstal Abbey. Date of upload: 3 August 2017

• LI014-014028 Architectural fragment
  Description

  Sandstone base for an engaged column of 12th century date belonging to Owney Cistercian abbey (LI014-014002-) now lying up against the base of the W boundary wall in Abington graveyard (LI014-014006-) close to SW angle. Compiled by: Caimin O'Brien with details kindly provided by Colmán Ó Clabaigh of Glenstal Abbey. Date of upload: 3 August 2017

• LI014-014029 Architectural fragment
  Description

  Architectural fragment with roll and frontal fillet moulding of 13th century date belonging to Owney Cistercian abbey (LI014-014002-) now lying in SW quadrant of Abington graveyard (LI014-014006-). Compiled by: Caimin O'Brien with details kindly provided by Colmán Ó Clabaigh of Glenstal Abbey. Date of upload: 3 August 2017

Architectural heritage

• Mausoleum, 1850–1870 · Regional interest
  Description

  Freestanding gable-fronted mausoleum, built c. 1860, to west. Pitched felt roof with limestone copings and eaves course. Rendered walls having render quoins. Oculi to front (east) and rear (west) with limestone surrounds. Pointed arch opening having cut limestone surround and cast-iron panelled door with raised lettering reading: 'Erected by Mrs Jane Keays Cork'.

• Saint John's Church (Abington), church/chapel, 1860–1880 · Regional interest
  Description

  Detached gable-fronted Gothic Revival Church of Ireland church, built in 1869, comprising four-bay nave, three-stage square-plan tower to south elevation having octagonal-plan to upper stages, porches to north and south elevations and chancel to rear (east) elevation. Pitched fishscale slate roof with cast-iron ridge crestings and limestone copings. Hexagonal limestone spire with sawtooth motifs and wrought-iron finial to tower. Hipped slate roof having cast-iron ridge crestings to north porch. Snecked limestone battered walls with limestone and sandstone plinth course and sandstone stringcourse to gable apexes, west and east elevations. Blind sandstone quatrefoil motifs to tower, second stage. Blind sandstone trefoil motif to west elevation gable apex. Pointed arch opening to west elevation having sandstone impost course, limestone hoodmoulding, sandstone Corinthian style engaged columns with limestone plinths and capitals flanking inset rose window having quatrefoil and sexfoil stained glass windows. Sandstone trefoil motifs to spandrels. Alternating limestone and sandstone voussoirs throughout. Pointed arch openings with inset trefoil-headed stained glass windows and limestone block-and-start surrounds. Shouldered square-headed opening to north porch, north elevation having chamfered block-and-start surround and stained glass windows. Oculus to chancel, east elevation with limestone hoodmoulding, impost course and stained glass window. Pointed arch tripartite opening to chancel, east elevation with banded limestone Corinthian style engaged columns, limestone surround, sill and stained glass windows. Paired trefoil-headed opening to chancel, south elevation, having sandstone Corinthian style engaged column with limestone capital and plinth and quarry glazed windows having risers with blind roundels. Pointed arch opening to tower, first stage having sandstone and limestone hoodmoulding, inset stained glass oculus over trefoil-headed stained glass window with blind roundels to spandrels. Trefoil-headed stained glass windows to tower, second stage having limestone hoodmouldings. Pointed arch openings to tower, third stage with inset trefoil-headed openings, limestone roll moulded surrounds, and Corinthian style engaged columns having sandstone shafts. Pointed arch opening to porch, south elevation with limestone hoodmoulding, impost course, Corinthian style engaged columns having sandstone shafts flanking timber battened door with wrought-iron strap hinges. Limestone threshold with cast-iron bootscraper to entrance. Pointed arch opening to porch, north elevation, having chamfered limestone surround with splayed jambs and timber battened door having wrought-iron strap hinges. Pair of limestone tapering, chamfered square-profile piers with pedimented caps, trefoil motifs and ornate double-leaf cast-iron gates.

• Post box, 1880–1900 · Regional interest
  Description

  Wall-mounted cast-iron post box, erected c. 1890, with VR lettering and crown insignia. Manufacturer's name on base: 'W.T. Allen & Co. London.'

• Mausoleum, 1850–1870 · Regional interest
  Description

  Freestanding gable-fronted limestone mausoleum, built c. 1860. Pitched felt roof with limestone copings. Dressed walls having cut quoins. Pointed arch opening with cut block-and-start surround and cast-iron panelled door having rivets and raised lettering reading family name of 'Wilkinson'.

• Bridge, 1730–1750 · Regional interest
  Description

  Six-arch limestone road bridge over the River Mulkear, built c. 1740, with fabric dating back to earlier times. Rubble limestone and sandstone walls with limestone cappings and inscribed limestone plaque to west parapet wall. Roughly dressed limestone voussoirs to round-headed arches. Rubble limestone V-cutwaters to east elevation.

• Elm Grove, house, 1820–1840 · Regional interest
  Description

  Detached three-bay two-storey house, built c. 1830, with round-headed doorway with replacement door. Three-bay return to east and single-bay return to west. Hipped slate roof with red brick chimneystack. Outbuildings to rear and side. Boundary walls to front with cast-iron gate.

Designated sites: National Parks and Wildlife Service. Recorded monuments: Sites and Monuments Record, National Monuments Service. Buildings: National Inventory of Architectural Heritage. Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage, CC BY 4.0. Works at or in relation to a recorded monument need two months' written notice to the National Monuments Service (National Monuments (Amendment) Act 1994, section 12).

Radon

About 1 in 10 homes in this area is likely to have high radon levels. Testing a home

Landslides

The 1:50,000 map rates the landslide susceptibility here as moderately low, low, low (inferred).

Terrain model

No LiDAR survey of the Office of Public Works covers the centre of the townland of Abington.

Flooding

The Office of Public Works publishes its flood maps on floodinfo.ie.

Radon Risk Map of Ireland, Environmental Protection Agency, and Landslide Susceptibility Classification, Geological Survey Ireland, both under CC BY 4.0. LiDAR: contains Irish Public Sector Data (Geological Survey Ireland & the Office of Public Works) licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International (CC BY 4.0) licence.

• Abington, Murroe5 sales

Name

Abington · Mainistir Uaithne

Area

1,532,856 m² (153.29 ha, 378.78 acres)

Civil parish

Abington, and its townlands

Barony

Owneybeg

Electoral division

Abington, the unit of the census

Census 2022

1,367 people lived in 433 households in the Abington electoral division. 82% of households owned their home. 50% of homes were built since 2001. 7% of dwellings stood vacant on census night, and 0% were holiday homes.

Neighbouring townlands

Ahacore, Ballyguy, Bohergar, Dromeliagh, Farnane, Knockanerry, Maddyboy, Rath

Placenames

Abington on logainm.ie, the Placenames Database of Ireland

Townlands, civil parishes, baronies and electoral divisions, National Statutory Boundaries, Tailte Éireann, CC BY 4.0. Census 2022, Small Area Population Statistics by electoral division, Central Statistics Office, CC BY 4.0. A townland is the smallest land division of Ireland, and the unit of a rural address. Old registers such as the 1901 and 1911 censuses file it under its civil parish and barony.