Sir Walter Raleigh in Ireland

Sir Walter Raleigh in Ireland

Sir Walter Raleigh was one of the most one of the most enigmatic adventurers, soldiers, scholars and courtiers to emerge in the Tudor Age. This essay looks at his multiple Irish connections, good and bad. Much of the information was gleaned from an excellent...

Thomas Harriot – The True Discoverer of the Potato

Sir Walter Raleigh will forever to be associated with the potato. It may even be true that he grew the first potatoes in Ireland at his home Myrtle Grove, Youghal. However, the first Englishman to discover potatoes was Thomas Harriot, a remarkable scientist who...

The Kinnears from Balmerino to Ballybay

THE KINNEARS FROM BALMERINO TO BALLYBAY Arms: Sable, on a bend or, three martlets (or canary birds) vert. Crest: Two anchors, saltier ways, proper. Motto: I live in hope. WHAT’S IN A NAME? There have always been numerous variations to the spelling of the name with de...
Finn of Drummond, St Mullins, County Carlow

Finn of Drummond, St Mullins, County Carlow

The story of the Finn family who have lived in the townland o f Drummin, near St. Mullins, Co. Carlow, since at least the 18th century. William Finn served with the United Irishmen in 1798, while his son John, a farmer, assisted the Poor Law Commissioners in the...