School: Shanagolden (B.) (roll number 3786)

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1. Local Wells - Borrigone Well (continued)

   

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   north-east of Shanagolden there is another holy well. It is situtated a few hundred yards from the main road, between Limerick and Foynes, and beside the ruins of an old castle called Dysert castle. The well is dedicated to St. John (Eoin), and some old people say that the name Borrigone is derived from the name of the saint, i.e. Barraigh Eoin or the rough lands of St. John.

   On the 15th August each year a 'pattern' is held at the well. People come there on that day from this and the surrounding parishes, and perform a 'rounds' or pilgrimage there. Formerly a much bigger crowd gathered for the 'pattern', than there does of recent times. Up to thirty years ago a great number of people flocked to this well on the eve of the Assumption. They remained there all night and throughout the following day. Bonfires were kept lighting and open air dances were held near the well. People also visited Borrigone well to make rounds, on the Saturday before May day, and on the eve of St. John's day.

   The 'rounds' performed are as follows. A person walks slowly round the well

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   Transcribed by a member of our volunteer transcription project.

   History Edit

   Topics

   1. events
      1. events (by time of year) (~11,476)

   Language

   English

   Collector

   Joseph Neville

   Gender

   Male

   Informant

   Mr John Neville

   Relation

   Relative (other than parent or grandparent)

   Gender

   Male

   Age

   60

   Address

   Moig, Co. Limerick