School: Burrane, Inis (roll number 13738)

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1. Life Sketch of Peter O' Connell (continued)

   

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   old fool who spent his time collecting such raiméis could have employed his time much better" or some such discouraging words. This opinion of this great work by the "Liberator" seems very strange in view of his undoubted learning and wisdom and is totally at variance with the opinions of the learned men of later years. The Liberator's judgment apparently convinced Peter O'Connell's relative of the worthlessness of the manuscripts and being sorely in need of money to defray the expenses of the return journey to his home in Moyne, Killimer, Co. Clare pawned it (or sold it to a publican who had it is assumed some literary taste) for a few shillings. It was afterwards traced and now forms one of the most prized possessions in the archives of Trinity College Dublin. The inscription on the Tombstone is as follows and is written in old English as the Spelling of some of the words does not agree with Modern Spelling.

   This is an exact copy of the Inscription on Peter O'Connell's Tombstone - Line for line

   This tombstone was erected by Anthony O'Connell in memory
   of his Unchel Peter O'Connell
   who was a Professor of Languages and Teacher of Philosophy. He lived respected and died regretted
   by his numerous Family and Friends
   on the 24th Feby. 1826, Aged 71 years. May his Soul rest in
   Peace Amen.

   NB. Some very old people in this district remember to hear their parents and grand-parents speak of Mr O'Connell as a very great Scholar and Teacher.

   Recorded by Michael Twomey
   Principal Teacher
   Burrane N.S.

   Information gleaned from tradition and local sources.

   

   Transcribed by a member of our volunteer transcription project.

   History Edit

   Language

   English

   Collector

   Michael Twomey

   Gender

   Male

   Occupation

   Teacher