 O'Rahilly Bar |
Northwards from this town lies the Gothic ruins of Lislaughton Franciscian
Friary, built in 1478 by John O'Connor Kerry. The walls of the friary
are still intact, and a number of attractive windows and well-preserved
sedilia make viewing worthwhile. A fine processional cross from the friary,
known as the Ballylongford Cross, is now in the National Museum in Dublin.
Carrigafoyle Castle: to the west of Ballylongford was the main
seat of the O'Connors built by O'Connor Kerry, from where he profitably
raided ships in the Shannon Estuary. The castle stands over 60 feet high,
but only three of its walls are standing as a result of the destructive
assault launched by the Cromwellian forces in 1649. It is now being restored.
The church opposite the castle dates from the same period.
The O'Rahilly: one of the heroic nationalist figures in the 1916
uprising was a native of Ballylongford, the public house which his family
owned was built in 1806 and is still operating as a public house in very
much the same as it originally was. Worthwhile visiting to see all the
memorabilia. He died outside the General Post Office in Dublin from wounds
received in battle.
Brendan Kennelly, the distinguished present day writer, poet and lecturer,
was born here also. A Brendan Kenneally weekend is held here the 2nd week
in August.
A Regatta is held on 3rd Sunday in July.
An Oyster Festival is held the weekend before the Listowel Races
having their own oyster beds nearby. Ballylongford also boast their own
Races. (see list of Festivals and Events.)