Archives

Sighle Ní Dhuibhir – Embittered Mistress Of Borrisoleigh, Co. Tipperary.

Tourists/visitors travelling from Borrisoleigh to Nenagh, via route 498, and arriving in the townland of Cullahill, Borrisoleigh, Co Tipperary, will observe a crumbling, two storey ruin, or tower house. This ruin is built on the ruins of a castle, latter which clings to a rocky outcrop, known locally as Cullahill castle. Houses built on earlier castle sites usually retain the name of that original castle site.

This building first comes into view on the horizon, easily observed on left-hand-side, as the junction leading to Kilcommon village (L4141) is encounter, just past the bad bends north of Borrisoleigh village.

Drone Footage: Courtesy Pat Corbett (Professional Videographer).
Music:
Courtesy Chris Haugen.

From what remains of this existing two storey ruin today; we can observe that both storeys had fireplaces and chimney-stacks on their south-west facing and north-east facing walls.

This visible eerie ruin, especially on late winter evenings, dates back to the early 17th century, and is reckoned to be only the second building on this elevated site. As the drone footage above shows, the ruined foundations of the older castle still exist, same estimated to date from as early as the 13th century.

It was one fortress of the Dwyer clan, latter who, over a 200 years period, constantly feuded with the nearby Bourke clan, in matters pertaining to agrarian claims, before finally the two clans eventually made peace.

It is believed that part of the peace negotiations between the Dwyer and Bourke clans was that a sister of the Dwyer clan, residing at Cullahill castle, named Sighle Ní Dhuibhir, would marry Chief of the Burke clan, Walter Burke, latter residing at Borrisoleigh castle, close to Cullahill castle.
However, after four years, in 1623, Walter died, leaving all his possessions in the hands of his wife Sheila, the latter who by this time had become an cruel, embittered mistress who immediately abandoned her husband’s castle at Borrisoleigh and moved back to Cullahill castle.

Sheila had gained the reputation of being a local tyrant and history stands her accused of committing horrendous acts of cruelty on both her enemies and those who simply incurred her wrath.
It is claimed that, at least on one occasion, she placed an enemy in a barrel containing internal spikes, before rolled him down the steep hill, just metres from south east of her abode. The action was repeated until her enemy died.

Others enemies, legends state, met a torturous death by being tied up and submerged in barrels of boiling water, killing them slowly.

Sheila also stands accused of the cruel murder her sister Cáit (Kathleen). It is said that Cáit had eloped with her stepson Ulick, seen then as a “moral relapse” by Sheila.
So displeased was Sheila that she, by means of deception got them to return to the castle, before making them both prisoners.
She ordered both of them to be hanged naked from the battlement of Cullahill castle, hung by their ankles, for them to be scalded to death while in that position, using boiling water poured on them from couldrons above.

Other storeys claim that she regularly had one night stands with lovers and like the Australian Redback spider (Latrodectus hasselti), she would then kill her mate the following morning.

Sheila met her own end when she was killed by one of her own soldiers. Again legend states it was her daily habit, on rising from her bed each morning, that she would walk towards the open window and stand surveying her property. It is believed she was killed possibly by accident, when an arrow was shot from a bow by a nearby soldier. It is said that a loud, high-pitched and intense scream reverberated throughout the Castle walls before her lifeless body was later recovered from the ground at the foot of the castle wall. Sighle Ní Dhuibhir was buried in Glenkeen old cemetery, outside Borrisoleigh village.

Eerie tales are often repeated in connected with these same aging ruins. It is said that a sow (female pig) and its bonhams (baby pigs) can be heard screeching in the castle ruins at certain times of the year, while the sound of strange music can be heard on other annual occasions.

Local legend states that gold remains hidden underneath the floor area of the castle. Two young men, legend claims, once set out to locate this hidden treasure. They dug down into the floor of the castle and came upon a large stone slab. They managed to lift the stone slab just slightly and from underneath emerged a huge black bird, who attacked one of the men with its beak, injuring his face, before flying away, never to be seen again. The story goes that this slightly injured young man was suddenly taken seriously ill and died within a few days.
To date no treasure has ever been discovered.

Anniversary Of Dublin & Monaghan Bombings.

Here in Co. Tipperary today, we again remember the two victims of the Dublin bombings; both murdered in the city, 51 years ago this very day, 17th May 1974.

In Dublin city car bombs were detonated without warning during rush hour, resulting in the murder of Miss Breda Turner, Thurles, Co. Tipperary aged 21 years and Mrs Maureen Shields, aged 46 years, originally from the village of Hollyford, west Co. Tipperary.

Mrs Shields, married with one son and two daughters, was murdered in the Talbot Street explosion, while Miss Turner, who was then engaged to be married on the following Easter, was murdered in the Parnell Street explosion.

It is at this time also that we remember Mr George Bradshaw, aged 30 years, a bus conductor from Fethard, Co. Tipperary, who was a victim of the Dublin bombing of December 1st 1972, at Sackville Place, in the city.

Statement by the Minister for Justice Jim O’Callaghan on the 51st Anniversary of Dublin and Monaghan Bombings.

“Today marks the 51st anniversary of the Dublin and Monaghan bombings, a devastating series of coordinated explosions in Dublin city centre and in Monaghan town.
Today, we remember all those that tragically lost their lives and we remember the survivors of the bombings. We think of their families and friends whose loved ones were injured or killed, and who have carried unbearable loss and traumatic memories for over five decades.
The Government will not forget our duty to the victims and survivors, and we will persevere in our efforts to seek out the truth behind the tragic events of 17 May 1974 and, hopefully, secure some measure of comfort for those effected by these callous attacks.
We have worked consistently to implement the all-party motions which call on the British Government to allow access to all relevant documents relating to the Dublin-Monaghan bombings and I specifically raised this issue with the British Government at the recent meeting of the British-Irish Intergovernmental Conference at Hillsborough Castle.
The investigation into the bombings remains an open case in this jurisdiction. Any new evidence that comes to light will be fully investigated by An Garda Síochána.
The Government is committed to working with victims’ groups and our Northern Ireland and British counterparts to develop fit-for-purpose mechanisms to meet the needs and expectations of all those impacted by those dark days, including the victims of the Dublin and Monaghan bombings. We will play our full part in legacy processes including addressing the legacy of the conflict in this jurisdiction.”

Genealogy Researchers Visit Two-Mile- Borris, Thurles, Co. Tipperary.

Residents of New Zealand, Mrs Julie and Mr Tony Thomas made a welcome return visit to Two-Mile-Borris, Thurles yesterday afternoon, (May 9th 2025) to view a memorial plaque, which had been unveiled on Tuesday, October 1st, 2024, to the Right Reverend John Ryan (DD), late Bishop of Limerick.
The memorial plaque had been unveiled on the gravesite of his parents, on the southern side of the old section of Two-Mile-Borris cemetery, by the Two-Mile-Borris Old Graveyard Committee; thus generating considerable attraction from Limerick visitors over the past 8 months.

Pictured above L-R:- Mr Enda Bourke (Secretary Two-Mile-Borris Old Graveyard Committee), Mr Gerry Bowe (Chairperson Two-Mile-Borris Old Graveyard Committee), New Zealand residents Mrs Julie & Mr Tony Thomas, Ms Margaret Cormack and Mr Dan Hayes.

Bishop Ryan’s mother Catherine (nee Hickey), was a native of Longfordpass, Grague, Gortnahoe, Co Tipperary. The now identified inscription on his parents headstone reads: “Here lies the body of Patrick Ryan of Borris, [Two-Mile-Borris], who depd this life March 5th 1805, aged 65 years. Also his wife Cathrn [Catherine] Ryan, alias Hickey who depd Novr [November] 1st 1836, aged 92 years. May the Lord have mercy on their souls”.

Our readers will remember that Bishop John Ryan laid the foundation stone for the magnificent St John’s Cathedral, situated at Cathedral Place, Irishtown, Limerick city, (Eircode V94 H521), in 1856, (At this time Pope Pius IX was then head of the Catholic Church, his reign of almost 32 years being the longest verified of any Pope in history), which saw the First Mass celebrated there, in 1859, prior to the opening of the Cathedral itself in 1861, same which was consecrated by his successor, Limerick born, Bishop George Butler (1815-1886).

New Zealand’s welcome visitors, Mrs Julie & Mr Tony Thomas, have researched and written extensively on the Burke Clans nationally and Mrs Thomas has traced her family ancestors (Burke) back to Rathcunikeen, Two-Mile-Borris, Thurles, Co. Tipperary.
Research undertaken by the Thomas family, combined with graveyard restoration by Mr Gerry Bowe, has led to the confirmation of the final resting place of Bishop Ryan’s parents.

Newcastle, Co. Tipp To Hold 102st Annual Liam Lynch Memorial Mass.

The Newcastle Liam Lynch Memorial Committee have issued an invitation, summoning the public to the 102st Liam Lynch Memorial Mass in Newcastle village, Clashganny, Co. Tipperary on Sunday, 27th April, 2025.

Limerick born Liam Lynch (William Fanaghan Lynch 1892 – 1923) was Chief of Staff of the anti-treaty forces during the Irish Civil War. On April 10th 1923, Lynch was killed whilst trying to escape Free State troops in south Tipperary.

A National Army unit was observed approaching Lynch’s secret headquarters in the Knockmealdown Mountains, located on the border of counties Tipperary and Waterford. Lynch was in possession of important papers that he knew could not fall into enemy hands, so he and six of his comrades attempted to evade the advancing troops. However, Lynch’s retreating group ran into yet another unit of some 50 National Army soldiers approaching from the opposite direction. Shortly afterwards Lynch was observed by troops and struck by rifle fire from the road.

His wounded body was carried on an improvised stretcher manufactured from guns to Nugent’s (formally Walsh’s) pub in Newcastle village, latter situated at the foot of the mountains, before later being brought to Clonmel hospital, where he died that evening at 9:00pm. He was buried two days later at Kilcrumper Cemetery, Lisnasallagh, Co. Cork.

The days schedule will begin at Tigh na nDaoine, the Community House, Newcastle with a ceremonial raising of the Tri-Colour at 1:45pm. A march will take place from the Community House to Newcastle Church, where Mass will be offered at 2:00pm presided over by Canon Brendan Crowley PP.

Following Mass, refreshments will be served in the Community Hall in Newcastle, followed by an Oration delivered by Co. Meath TD Mr. Peadar Tóibín, leader of Aontú since January 2019 and Chairperson Designate of the Committee on Arts, Heritage, Regional, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs.

The organising committee look forward to welcoming all in attendance.

Mid-West Region Will Celebrate Easter At Bunratty & Craggaunowen.

More than 15,000 people from counties Tipperary, Clare and Limerick’s Mid-West Region are expected to pass through the gates of Craggaunowen and Bunratty Castle & Folk Park this Easter Bank Holiday Weekend.

Lady Longbottom and Madame Bloomers will be judging the Easter Bonnet Competition at Bunratty Castle & Folk Park this Easter.

The popular County Clare visitor attractions are hosting a comprehensive programme of family-friendly activities and entertainment for all ages.

Bunratty Castle and Folk Park’s Easter events will be held on Friday, April 18th, Saturday, April 19th, and Sunday, April 20th from 10:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. each day.

The public is invited to step back in time with reenactors from Clan Life and Tercio Irlanda, who will bring 16th-century Gaelic Ireland to life, through engaging displays and talks on the era’s chieftains, warriors, and culture.

The traditional skills of the past will also be on display. Visitors will be able to witness the art of traditional Irish ironworking with live blacksmith demonstrations, showcasing the history and craftsmanship passed down through generations.

At 2.00 p.m. daily, the Bean an Tí will showcase the art and traditions behind Irish baking as the aroma of freshly baked griddle bread fills the interior of the Golden Vale Farmhouse.

Easter Bunny & Chick will be appearing at Bunratty Castle & Folk Park and Craggaunowen this Easter.

Along with getting the opportunity to meet the Easter Bunny and Chick, there will be plenty of children’s entertainment throughout the visitor attraction, as well as live traditional Irish music.

Bunratty Castle and Folk Park is calling all young designers aged 12 and under to showcase their creativity using recycled or upcycled materials in the Easter Bonnet Competition. The judges, Lady Longbottom and Madame Bloomers, will announce the winning bonnets and hats on the village street at 2.30 p.m.

The Wobbly Circus will keep visitors entertained outside the Tea Rooms with a showcase of fire-juggling, unicycling and circus skills, while Garry Rossiter will be combining juggling, comedy, audience participation and danger through knife juggling, fire eating and stilt walking.

Guests can hop on the Bunratty Express and travel through the Folk Park past the elegant Georgian design of Bunratty House and the reconstructed Ardcroney Church, and through the Fairy Trail, woodland trails and paddocks, with their vast array of indigenous Irish animal species from Kerry Bog Ponies to Irish Red Deer and Bunratty’s resident Irish Wolfhounds Rian and Mide. The 10-minute train ride departs from the Red Barn, located behind Mac’s Pub, from 10.30 a.m. to 1.30 p.m. and 2.00 p.m. to 4.30 p.m.

A fun and interactive Clue Trail, designed for younger visitors and their families, will lead participants through the folk park’s scenic woodland trails. Along the way, they will meet lively characters such as Mike the Seanchaí, the School Master, and the Village Policeman, all while uncovering fascinating stories from Ireland’s past.

Ms Marie Brennan (Events Manager at Bunratty Castle & Folk Park), said, “The Easter bank holiday weekend will be filled with various family-friendly activities and entertainment suitable for all ages. Visitors can expect a diverse range of attractions, including circus performances, storytelling sessions, train rides and living history reenactments. The programme aims to offer a blend of fun and educational experiences and is an opportunity for everyone to join us in a true Easter celebration.”

The Easter Bunny makes a quick leap from Bunratty to Craggaunowen, where more exciting activities await on Easter Monday from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Tony Baloney will entertain with his puppet show, while The Wobbly Circus provide fire-juggling, unicycle and circus tricks.

Craggaunowen will celebrate Ireland’s ancient crafts with talented artisans hosting woodworking, blacksmithing and weaving demonstrations.

There will also be an opportunity to meet the Easter Bunny at the popular East Clare visitor attraction, which has undergone significant investment and upgrades during the past year.

See www.bunrattycastle.ie and www.craggaunowen.ie for Easter Event 2025 ticket details. Early booking is advised.