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| ST. MARY'S CATHEDRAL, LIMERICK. -The above celebrated cathedral, although for centuries possessed by the Episcopalians, bears its ancient name of St. Mary's. It was, according to many authorities, founded in 1194, by King Donald O'Brien, of Thomond. Some authorities say, however, that its foundation dates from a much earlier period, and that St. Munchin, who flourished in the 6th century, and who established the diocese of Limerick, was its original constructor. King Donald, no doubt, improved the ancient edifice and this may have led some historians to believe that he founded it. St. Mary's is situated in the English Town, not far from King John's Castle and Thomond Bridge. From its tower, the Royal and Irish colors floated during the two memorable sieges of 1690 and 1691, when it was owned by the Catholic church. Under its venerable roof, the patriotic Earl of Tyrconnell, the heroic General Sarsfield, and other Irish leaders, worshipped, and it was frequently thronged to the doors by the soldiers of the brave Irish army of that troublous time. There Te Deum ws chanted when Lieutenant-General St. Ruth arrived to take his fatal command, in May, 1691, and beneath the flag-stones of its chancel, somewhere, the "weary heart" of Tyrconnell, whose life was shortened by the disaster at Aughrim, was laid to rest in August of that memorable year. The cathedral has been in Protestant hands since the fall of Limerick. |
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