RATHANGAN

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

"RATHANGAN, a parish, post, and market town in the baronies of East and West Offaly, county Kildare, province of Leinster, Ireland, 5 miles N.W. of Kildare, and 26 S.W. of Dublin. The parochial surface, which extends over 8,872 acres, is varied by hill and dale. The living is a rectory in the diocese of Kildare, value £459, in the patronage of the Duke of Leinster and Bishop of Kildare alternately. The church occupies a prominent site. There are likewise a Roman Catholic chapel and Methodist and Quaker meeting-houses. There are two or three private schools and a National school. Lord Harberton resides at Spencer Farm. The town is situated on the E. side of the Grand canal, and on the road from Kildare to Edenderry. It contains a chief police station and a dispensary. Though well suited for trade, its business is but trifling. Viscount Harberton and the Duke of Leinster are the sole proprietors. Petty sessions are held weekly. Monday is market day. Fairs are held on 26th June, 26th August, 12th November, and Whit-Tuesday."

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