The ancient Motte of Donohill was attacked by O’Sullivan Beara’s starving people, who had camped in the nearby woods of Bealnakelly for 2 days in the winter of 1602
“They attacked and took many provisions, the food was immediately devoured by those who rushed in furst and the rest commenced to feed like cattle, on the wheat, beans and barley grain depositedin the castle.”
Today the traveller can enjoy the comforts of the local pubs in Donohill at their ease.
St. James Well is located just north of the graveyard and is probably Pagan in origin. In pre-Norman times it was dedicated to St. James, Apostle. The local Pattern day is 27th July, or the nearest weekend every year and Mass is celebrated at the well.
Donohill cemetery, just across the road from the Motte, is in the townland of Churchfield. Here lies the mother of Fr Matthew, the Apostle of Temperance. The freedom fighter Dan Breen is also interred here.
Stamp Location
John Cross
Heffernan’s Shop
