Parish of Kilnaboy (g)

There is an old burying ground still in use called Cill Bhaighdeain, i.e., Baighdean’s Church, in the Townland of the same name. There is no Holy Well near it as mentioned in the Name Book, but the mortice in the pedestal of a Cross standing a little to the south of the burying ground, and containing some water in wet weather, is resorted to for the cure of warts, and hence the idea of a Holy Well.

There is a small burying place for children in the Townland of Leim an Eich, another in the Townland of Coum or Curreen, another in the Townland of Cahermochunna. This Caher is said to have been the residence of O’Hehir.

Besides the Holy Wells already mentioned in this Parish, are Bullan Phadraig in the Townland of Pollnalour and Tobbar Duibh in the Townland of Cahirfodda.

This Well has its name (the Well of the Black) from a black miry sediment which is found at its bottom, and is used by the peasantry for colouring wool, as well as for applying to swellings of the eyes and limbs. I know other places that produce this dye stuff, but they are not held in any sanctified regard, nor do I think this Well has any better claim to the name of Holy.