One of the best-known graves in Conwal Parish Church is believed by many locals to be that of Count Redmond O’Hanlon, the notorious seventeenth century bandit. But does this popular local legend stand up to historical scrutiny? Originally from County Armagh, Count Redmond O’Hanlon had fought under Eoghan Rua O’Neill at the Battle of Benburb
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The Penal Laws of the early eighteenth century had prohibited the public practice of Catholic worship in Ireland, which led to private masses taking place in secluded wooded areas throughout the country. Isolated locations were sought to hold these religious ceremonies, as observing the Catholic mass was a matter of severe danger for those in...
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Owing to the predominantly Scottish nature of the new town of Letterkenny in the 17th century, the arrival of Presbyterianism was to be expected. By 1640, a presbytery was set up in the town with Rev. Andrew Semple appointed Presbyterian minister for Letterkenny in 1642. He was succeeded by Rev. William Semple who was ordained
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According to census statistics, Catholicism is the predominant religion in the town of Letterkenny today. However, given that the town has its origins in the Plantation of Ulster, it is no surprise to learn that many individuals and families of both the Church of Ireland and Presbyterian communities have left a rich imprint on the
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