RATHBARRY

In 1868, the parish of Rathbarry contained the following places:

"RATHBARRY, a parish in the baronies of Ibane and Barrymore, county Cork, province of Munster, Ireland, 4 miles S.W. of Clonakilty. Castlefreke is its post town. The surface extends along the seacoast. The soil inland is of good quality, and the road from Cork to Skibbereen traverses the interior. The living is a vicarage in the diocese of Ross, value £180. The church is in the later English style. It was erected in 1825 by means of a gift from the late Board of First Fruits, and a donation from Lord Carbery. The Roman Catholic chapel is united to that of Ardfield. There are a parochial school, and another founded by Lord Carbery. Castlefreke, the seat of Lord Carbery, and Kilkerran are the principal residences. There is a police station at Milltown. In the demesne of Castlefreke stand the ruins of Rathbarry Castle, which gave name to the parish. It was built in the 15th century by the Barrys, and has been at various periods the scene of conflict. Ruins are likewise seen of the castles of Dundedy and Dunowen. Great quantities of calcareous sand are collected on the strand, which is most valuable for manure. Fairs are held on 25th March, 29th June, and 29th September."

[Transcribed from The National Gazetteer of Great Britain and Ireland 1868]
by Colin Hinson ©2018