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Kingdom of Thomond
Munster Series

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Thomond - Tuadh Mumhan, meaning north Munster
Tuadh Mumhan came into prominence as a separate region within the province of Mumhan (Mumu, Mumhain, et al) in conjunction with a rise in power of the Dál gCais. An ancient origin tradition of the Dál gCais connect them to the Déis Becc (aka Déis Tuaiscirt), a branch of the Déisi who conquered the Thomond region from the Connachta in the 5th century. The Dál gCais initially gained supremacy in the Munster region during the 10th and 11th centuries. Mathghamhain and Brian Boru, both sons of Cinneide (or Cendétigh), were among the first of the the Dál gCais (Dalcassian) who became kings of Munster during this timeframe. The diocese of Killaoe, which was first established at the Synod of Rathbresail in 1111, is often given as "coterminous with the boundaries of the ancient kingdom of Thomond." At that time Killaloe was an area held by the Dál gCais and those most closely 'tributary' to them. This included the territory of the Dál gCais, Corco Baiscinn, Aradh, Múscraige Tíre, and much of Uaithne and Éile.

There are frequent references to "Tuadh Mumhan" in the Irish Annals beginning in the latter 11th century, but as a separate entity representing all of northern Munster an entry for the year 1118 seems to mark a milestone event. In that year, a treaty at Gleann Maidhir (Glanmire) divided the Kingdom of Munster into northern (Tuadh Mumhan) and southern (Des Mumhan) halves, a division apparently running near the border of modern counties Limerick and Cork. The entry in the Annals for 1118 reads, " A hosting by Toirdhealbhach Ua Conchobhair, king of Connacht, and by Murchadh O Maelsechlainn, king of Temhair, along with him, and by Aed O'Ruairc, into Mumha, as far as Glenn-Maghair; and he gave Des-Mumha to Mac Carthaigh, and Tuadh-Mumha to the sons of Diarmaid Ua Briain, and carried off the hostages of each."

With this 12th century division of Munster into two parts, Thomond included the area about the diocese of Killaloe, and additionally encompassed the traditional territorites of Úi Fidgeinti, Uí Chonaill Gabra, Eóghanacht Áine, Éile, Corco Mruadh, the tribes of Uaithne (later held by the Síl Cennétich, and much of Eóghanacht Caisel and Ciarraige Luachra.   (reference: Ancient Munster)

By the early 13th century, through the encroachment of the Anglo-Norman Butler family and others into eastern Thomond (north Tipperary, east Limerick and south Offaly), part of which came to be known as Ormond or East Munster, the kingdom of Thomond was greatly reduced. Further encroachment reduced its size to more of the immediate area of modern county Clare.




Tribes and Territories of Northern Munster


Dál gCais     (kings of Munster and Thomond)

Dál gCais was originally a small kingdom ruled by the ancestors Brian Borúmha, including the eastern portion of the present County Clare. Brian's ancestors are said to derive from the sons of Cas, 7th in descent from Ailell Aulum (or Oilill Olum), and included Caisin (Ui Caisin, e.g. MacNamara), Aonghus Ceannathrach (Cenel Cuallachta), and Blat or Blod (Ui Blait or Ui Bloid, e.g. O'Brien, O'Kennedy), among others. The power of the O'Brien ancestors, lords of Dál gCais, increased greatly in 10th and 11th centuries, to the point they became an important dynasty within all of Munster and culminating with Brian Ború, son of Cendétigh, recognized as the dominant king in Ireland by the turn of the 11th century. Brian's nickname, Ború, comes from Boramha, the name of the village where he was born. Ceann Coradh, now Kincora, was the stronghold of Brian, near the mouth of the Shannon river.
Dalcassian Septs included Ua Briain (O'Brien), Mac Domhnaill (MacDonnell), Ua Gradaigh (O'Grady), Ua hAnrachain (O'Hanrahan), Ua h-Elidhe (O'Healy), Ua Cinneide (O'Kennedy), Mac Con Mara (MacNamara), possibly Ua Cuinn (O'Quinn), Ua hEachtighearna (O'Aherne), and O'Muldoon (Malone) of Ogonelloe in east Co. Clare, among others.

About the 13th century the territories within in the modern county of Clare were given as Ó mBloid, Ó gCaisin, Tradaree, Cineal Fearmaic, Uí Cormaic, East Corcabaiscinn, West Corcabaiscinn, Corcomroe, Burren, and Uí Breacain. Six of the ancient territories are today represented on the Clare County Council's Coat of Arms, that is - Corcumrua, Ui Caisin, Clann Cuilean, Corca Baiscinn, Ui Breacain, and Dal gCais, that compromise the present day county.

The early territories would eventually be formed into the medieval and more modern baronies of Tulla (formerly part Ó mBloid), Bunratty (formerly part Ó gCaisin & Tradaree), Inchiquin (formerly Cineal Fearmaic, and Tullyodea), the Islands (formerly part Uí Cormaic, and Clonroad), Clonderlaw (formerly part East Corcabaiscinn), Moyarta (formerly part West Corcabaiscinn), Ibrickan (formerly Uí Breacain), Corcomroe and Burren (formerly the tribal area of Corco Mruadh).

The Ó mBloid and Ó gCaisin are given as Dalcassian septs, descended from the sons of Cas, 7th in descent from Ailell Aulum (or Oilill Olum), and represented by the septs of O'Brien, MacNamara (Clann Chuiléin), and many others in the region. The O'Briens and MacNamaras were dominant lords in this region for many centuries.

The Cineal Fearmaic are given as either Úi Fidgeinti or Dalcassian in origin, depending on which genealogy followed, and were represented by the O'Deas, O'Quins, O'Heffernans, et al. Origins of the Uí Cormaic are given as Úi Fidgeinti with their representatives the O'Hehirs, et al. The Corca Baiscinn are given in descent from a son of Conaire Mor ( c. A.D. 165), and related to the Corco Duibne of Munster and the Dal Riata of Ulster, with their later representatives cited as O'Donnell and MacMahon of Munster, among others.

The Uí Breacain are given as a Dalcassian sept in early genealogies, with their representatives including . The main septs of the Corco Mruadh, in descent from the Clanna Rory of Ulster, included O'Connor of Corcomroe, O'Loughlin of the Burren, O'Garbh, among others. The Tradaree (Tradraige) area included, among others, the O'Neills of Cinel Dealbhaoith. O'Donovan's Tribes of Ui Fiachrach cites the tribes of the Tradraighe as remnants of the original Firbolg tribes of Connacht.

an early genealogy of the Dál gCais - lineage of Brian Borumha, King of Ireland:   (Rawlinson B502)
Muirchertach m. Tairdelbaich m. Taidgcc m. Briain (ríg h-Érenn) m. Ceinnétich m. Lorccáin m. Lachtnai m. Cuircc m. Anluain m. Mathgamna m. Tairdelbaich m. Caidléine m. Áeda m. Conaill m. Echach Balldeirg m. Cáirthind m. Blait (a quo Úi Blait) m. Tháil qui fuit Cass m. Conaill Echluaith m. Luigdech Mind m. Óengusa Tírich m. Fir Choirb m. Moga Coirb m. Cormaic Caiss m. Ailella Auluimb m. Éogain Toídlich (aka Moga Nuadat) m. Moga Néit

The annals cite for the Dál gCais:

Síl Cennétich - referred to here in conjunction with Ó Cinnéide (O'Kennedy) of Ormond, originally centered in the Glenomra valley near Killaloe, their lands at one time included much of the baronies of Upper and Lower Ormond in co. Tipperary, formerly part of the more ancient territory of Muscraige Tíre. Even after the arrival of the powerful Butler (Earls of Ormond) in the 13th century, the Kennedys remained an influential family as Gaelic 'lords of Ormond' from the eleventh to the sixteenth centuries, as recorded in The Annals of The Four Masters.
They are given as a Dalcassian sept, perhaps taking their name from Cinneide, son of Donnchuan, and a nephew of Brian Boru. O'Hart gives other familes descended from Donchuan as: Eustace, O'Regan (of Thomond), O'Kelleher, O'Beollan (or "Boland"), O'Casey, Power, and Twomey.

The Annals cite:

Corco Mruad

The Corco Mruad were of west County Clare, later restricted to the Diocese of Kilfenora, barony of Burren. Caherballykinvarga, in the Burren of Co. Clare, was a ring-fort and a central settlement of the Corcu Mruad chiefdom. Septs included Ua Chonchobuir Chorcu Mruad (O'Conor Corcomroe), Ua Lochlainn (O'Loughlin), Ua Flaithbertach (O'Flaherty), Ua Diocholla (O'Deely), Ua Drinan (O'Drennan), O'Maoleidigh (O'Melody).

early Corco Mruad genealogy:   (Rawlinson)
Conchobor & Lochlaind dá m. Máel Sechnaill m. Argddai m. Sairennáin m. Flaithbertaich m. Duib Ruip m. Rechtabrat m. Láeg m. Duib Dá Chrích m. Báethellaich m. Máelduib m. Cuilíuin m. Senaich m. Amargein m. Táil m. Bruicci m. Conbruic m. Cúscraid m. Messen Nued m. Messen Sulad m. Meic Eirce m. Oscair m. Ochon m. Nechtain m. Art Chuirp m. Áeda Gnóe Fir Gaí Lethain m. Aislithi m. Me Druad m. Ollomna m. Déodai m. Echdach m. Cuircc m. Fergusa m. Rossa m. Rudraigi (founder of Clanna Rory in Ulster).

an alternate Corco Mruad genealogy:   (O'Hart Pedigrees)
Conor and Lochlan m. Maolsechlainn m. Argha m. Samhradhan m. Flahartach m. Dubhrue m. Rachtaura m. Miodh Laoch m. Dubh da crioch m. Maoldubh m. Ceallach m. Bescall m. Dubh m. Fulen m. Senach m. Amerigin m. Talagh m. Broch m. Cubrac m. Osgar m. Mesuindun m. Mesinsala m. Earck m. Enare m. Cork m. Oscar m. Merchu m. Earck m. Cuon m. Nachten m. Aodh chorb m. Aodh m. Anbheith m. Aibhill m. Meadnrua m. Ollaous m. Deadha m. Corc m. Fergus m. Rossa Ruadh (Roich, is mother) m. Ruadri Mor (founder of Clanna Rory in Ulster).

The Annals cite:

Corco Baiscinn

Corco Baiscinn was centered in south-west (e.g. barony of Moyarta) of Co. Clare. Their origins are given to be the same as the Muscraige and the Dal Riata. Septs included Ua Bascinn (O'Baskin), Mac Diarmata (MacDermot), Ua Domhnaill (O'Donnell, or MacDonnell), MacMahon.

The annals cite:

Éile

Branching out of the race of Cian, son of Oilill Olum, the Clan Cian is found anciently in the territory of h-Éile Muman, among other places. A main branch descends from Cearbhal, lord of Ely, who was descended from Oilioll Olum. Various septs are noted of Éile (Ely).
Eile / Clan Cian - northeast Tipperary, southwestern Offaly - e.g. O'Carroll.
Eile Uí Fhogartaigh [barony of Eliogarty] - South Eile - e.g. O'Fogarty, cited as a Dal gCais sept.
Uí Fiachach Eile - in descent from Deachluath, son of Fiacha Muilleathan (Eoganacht).
Ui Flannacan Eli, alias Cenél Farga (Cinel Fearga or Cenél Arga), occupied the barony of Ballybrit, King's county.
Úi Luigdech Éile, descended from Lugaid, son of Ailill Flann Bec (Eoganacht).
Corca Eathrach Eli, aka Corco Athrach, alias Machaire Caisil, centered near Cashel and Holy Cross, descended from Aimirgin Glúngel.
Mec Con Medha of Tir Ele, MacConway, of Sil Ronain, of southern Ui Neill descent.

Septs included Ua Cearbhaill (O'Carroll), Ua Fhogartaigh (O'Fogarty), Ua Meachair (O'Meagher), Mag Corcrain (Mac Corcoran), Ua Flannacain (O'Flanagan), Ua Banain (O'Banan), Ua Cathail (O'Cahill), Mac Guilfoyle.

In O'Heerin's Topographical Poem it describes 8 tuatha under the King of Ely (the O'Carrolls of the Plain of Birra). The eight included Kinel Arga alias Cenél Farga (Ui Flannacan); Clan Rooney (Mag Corcran); Crioch Chein (O'Hegan); Clan Maonaigh (O'Dooley, formerly chief of Fartullagh); Clan Conligan (Mac Guilfoyle); Hy Deki (O'Banan); Crioch Keerin, or Ui Cairin and now anglicised Ikerrin (O'Meagher); and Tuath Faralt ( O'Hailchen). O'Heerin next describes Corca Tine and Ely the southern, who were possibly centered in the present Barony of Elyogarty in the County of Tipperary.

O'Donovan in his Ordnance Survey letters notes "From the poem of O'Heerin's it appears that before the Irish principalities were disturbed or dismembered by the Anglo Normans in the 12th century, Ely, the Kingdom of O'Carroll extended from Birr to Ely O'Fogarty in the County of Tipperary and that it comprised the present Baronies of Ballybritt, Clonlisk and Ikerrin." He goes on to cite the extent of Ely O'Carroll defined on the north by the boundary of ancient Meath (by the boundary of the Diocese of Meath); on the east by the ridge of the Slieve Bloom range of mountains (i.e. by Eile Ui Mhordha, aka Ely O'Morha); on the south by Eile Uí Fhógartaigh, aka Ely O'Fogarty (largely the barony of Eliogarty); and on the west perhaps by the baronies of Ormond (formerly part of Muscraighe Tíre).

An early Éile genealogy:   (Rawlinson)
Rígbarddán m. Con Coirne m. Móenaich m. Cerbeill cuius filius Gilla Pátric m. Dúnlainge m. Cnáimíne m. Máel Ruanaid m. Sechnassaich m. Ultáin m. Lonáin m. Binnig m. Féicc m. Tháil m. Menchair m. Arad m. Druad m. Éli Rigdeirg m. Findchada Ulaig m. Eircc m. Sabarnaich m. Findcháin m. Féicc m. Findchada Ulaich m. Condlai m. Taidcg m. Céin m. Ailella Auluimb.

An early Éle genealogy:   (Rawlinson)
Bróen m. Gillai Chuileáin m. Cléirich m. Ceinnétich m. Áilgenáin m. Máel Ruanaid m. Sechnassaich m. Aingeda m. Máel Ruanaid m. Sechnassaich m. Ultáin m. Lonáin m. Binnig m. Féicc m. Tháil m. Menchair m. Arad m. Druad m. Éli Rigdeirg m. Findchada Ulaig m. Eircc m. Sabarnaich m. Findcháin.
Genealogy note: Corcco Áelda dano do Síl Condla m. Taidc dóib. Corcco Tene do Síl Briain m. Echdach dóib. Dá ardaiccme dano Corcco Tene: Clann Máelhuidir & Cenél n-Eircc. Trí h-ardaiccme immorru Corcco Áelda .i. Úi Dínertaich & Úi Midgusa & Úi Amraid.

An early Éile genealogy:   (Keating) Maolruanuidh, son of Fionn, son of Domhnall, son of Rioghbhradan, son of Cu Coirneach, son of Maonach, son of Cearbhall, son of Aodh, son of Dubhluidhe, son of Cnaimhin, son of Seachnusach, son of Aineadh, son of Maolruanuidh, son of Eile Righdearg (from whom Eile is named) son of Tomchadh, son of Ulltan, son of Lonan, son of Binne, son of Feagh, son of Tal, son of Meachar, son of Ard, son of Drui, son of Earc, son of Fionnchadh Uallach (brother to this Fionnchadh was Fionnachta from whom sprang O Meachair), son of Connla, son of Tadhg, son of Cian, son of Oilill Olom.

An early Éile Clan Cian genealogy
O Cearbhaill, in descent from Iomchaidh, son of Connla Clamh, son of Tadhg, son of Cian, son of Oilill Olom.
O Meachair, in descent from Fionnachta, son of Connla Clamh, son of Tadhg, son of Cian, son of Oilill Olom.

Excerpts from the Annals:

Éile Uí Fhógartaigh, aka Ely O'Fogarty or Desceirt Éle, was centered in the barony of Eliogarty in county Tipperary, apparently also including a portion of the baronies of Upper Ormond and Ikerrin. The Ely O'Fogarty region formed the southern portion of a more extended territory simply referred to as Éile (Ely). Thurles is located in the heart of Eliogarty, and O'Donovan (Four Masters) describes this place as Dúrlas Uí Fogarta. The barony of Eliogarty was the patrimony of the O'Fogartys, i.e. the Síl Echach Bailldeirg, as O'Donovan (Poems) refers to them as.

MacLysaght (Irish Familes) says of the O'Fogarty genealogy, "though located outside the area associated with the Dalcassian septs the O'Fogartys are counted as of Dalcassian origin."

A possible early Éle (Uí Fhógartaigh) genealogy:   (Rawlinson)
Fogartach m. Flaind m. Aurchlosaich m. Congaile ... m. Echach Balldeirg m. Cáirthind Find m. Blait m. Tháil qui fuit Cass m. Conaill Echluaith m. Luigdech Mind m. Óengusa Tírich m. Fir Choirb m. Moga Coirb m. Cormaic Caiss m. Ailella Auluimb.

The Annals cite:

Aradh Tíre and Aradh Chliach

Ara, Arae, Arad, Arada or Aradh.

The Leabhar na gCeart cites the people of Ara (Arada, Aradh) were Rudricians, descended from Feartlachta, son of Fearghus, King of Ulster, in the 1st century; but these people were driven out by the descendants of Eoghan, son of Ailioll Óluim, and thereafter the territory was called Eoghanact Aine Cliach. O'Ciarmhaic, the chief, paid tribute to King Munster.
In early texts there is mention of the four Aradhs, descended from Feartlachtga, son of Feargus. The Book of Fenagh says they were Ui Monan, Ui Fidhmuine, Artroighi and Teochraide. The Book of Leinster makes them the Taechraige, Artraige, Descert Cliach and Hui Idban (Hui Fidbannaig). The Book of Lecan cites the Taecraidi, Artraidi, Deisceart Cliach, Uí Fidban and Uí Feitheamna.

Aradh Tíre was located in northern Tipperary, within the half barony of Ara (and Owney) or the northern half of the barony of Owney and Ara. Ua Donnacáin (O'Donegan) is cited as king of Arad or Aradh Thíre prior to the Norman arrival, with Uí Riada (O'Reidy) cited as king of Aradh in 1129. The Mac I Brien were also noted here in the 14th century. The territory of Araid Tíre was east and south-east of Lough Derg on the east side of the Shannon in County Tipperary.

Ara Chliach was centered east of the city of Limerick, perhaps in or near the baronies of Clanwilliam and Coonagh in northeastern county Limerick. The Eoganacht Araidh Cliach in the barony of Coonagh, the Eoghanacht Aine Cliach in the barony of Small County, and the Uaithne Cliach in the barony of Owneybeg, were all close neighbors. The Book of Ballymote mentions the Araidh Clíach descended from Eber, son of Ir, an ancient lineage tying them to the Rudricians, aka Clanna Rory of Ulster. The tribal group called the Dál Mo Dola migrated from Pallas Grean in Arada Cliach, to the area of Airthir Cliach (in Munster) according to the Tripartite Life of St. Patrick. Airthir Cliach is thought to be in the territory of Muscraighe Mitine (Hogan). The Éoghanacht Leag in Arad Cliach and the Éoganacht Airthir Cliach share a common lineage according to the genealogies.

The Dál Coirpri Aradh were of Laiginian [Leinster] origin, descendants of Cu Chorb, who possibly settled in County Tipperary. The Book of Leinster places them in Ara Thire and Ara Cliach, located as cited above. The same source mentions the Dál Coirpri Aradh Cliach descended from Mál mac Arbhara, and the Dál Coirpri Aradh Tíre descended from Finnchaidh, son of Ferroith; both located in Munster.

Dál Coirpri Cliach - The Book of Lecan and Book of Ballymote mention the Dál Coirpri Cliach in descent from Lughaidh Corb. The Dál Coirpri in Ara Cliach were noted, by O'Donovan and Hennessy, in and near the barony of Idrone in Co. Carlow (in Leinster). The latter, and perhaps the former, were also referred to as Dál Coirpri Loingsic Beic, a chief family of early Leinster, by the Book of Leinster. The Dál Coirpri in Ara Cliach were also recognized in the Book of Ballymote as a chief family of Leinster. To confuse matters, the Book of Leinster also recognizes a Dál Coirpri Loingsic in Munster, named from Coirpri Musc the poet, who received the land of Tír nAmhais from Aongus Musc.

an early Dál Cairpri Arad Tíre genealogy:   (Rawlinson)
Connaid m. Máeli Doburchon m. Lóchéne m. Demle m. Lommáin m. Cuirc m. Findchada m. h-Írchada m. Fir Roith m. Fir Nuad m. Buain m. Airgetbrain m. Cairpri Cluichechair m. Con Corb unum genus est & Dál Cairpri Arad Tíre.

an early Dál Cairpri Arad genealogy:   (Rawlinson)
Flaithbertach m. Crunnmaíl m. Commáin m. Fínáin m. Fhaigir m. Eirníne m. Féicc m. Meic Ieir m. Gossa m. Fabrich m. Máil m. Ainmerech m. Fir Roith m. Muine m. Fir Neud m. Fir Lugdach m. Buain m. Argatibair m. Cairpre Cluichechair m. Con Corb.

The Annals cite for the general terms Aradh, Ariad, Ara...:

Uaithne

Clann Uathnia included Uaithni Thíre (perhaps the southern part of the barony of Owney and Arra in northwest Co. Tipperary) and Uaithni Cliach (barony of Owneybeg in northeast Co. Limerick). Uaithne Cliach (of Cliú) was also referred to as Uaithne Beg or Uaithne Fidbaig (Fidbuide or Fidhbhaidé).

The Four Tribes of Owney (Uaithne) were described as O'Heffernan, O'Calahane, O'Loinsigh (Lynch) and MacKeogh. The O'Cahalane or Culhane (Ua Cathalain) sept is noted as a lord of Owney Beg (Uaithne Cliach) in the early 12th century. Ua Duinechair (e.g. O'Dinan, Downing) is another sept noted as chiefs of Uaithne (Cliach) by O'Hart (Pedigrees). The O'Mulryans of Corfin, Co. Clare were noted as chiefs in Owney in the 14th century, displacing the O'Heffernans.

an early Uaithne Tíre genealogy:   (Rawlinson)
Loingsech m. Sestnáin m. Congeltaich m. Donnchada m. Echdach m. Moínaich m. Brócáin m. Beraich, descended from ... Celtchair m. cUuithechair m. Fothaid m. Fhir Fhiled m. Glaiss m. Rosa m. Rudraigi m. Sittride m. Duib m. Fomuir m. Argatmáir m. Sírláim m. Find m. Blátha m. Labrada m. Carpri m. Ollaman Fótla. m. m. Fiachach Findscoithe a athair m. Sétna Airtt m. Ébir m. h-Ír m. Míled.

The Annals cite:

Uí Fidgeinti

Uí Fidgeinti, branching out of the Race of Fiachu Fidgenid, son of Maine Munchaín. The Uí Fidgente inhabited a region of County Limerick along the River Maigue, west of Limerick City, from the 3rd to the 12th century. About 950, Uí Fidgeinti split into two major groups, the Uí Cairpri (Cairbre) and the Ui Chonaill Gabhra. Chiefs of the former group, also called Uí Cairbre Eaodhe (Aodhbha), included the O'Donovan chiefs whose seat was at Bruree, County Limerick. Chiefs of Uí Chonaill Gabra included the Ui Cuiléin, or Collins, of the baronies of Connello, County Limerick.
The Saerthuatha Muman are described by the Book of Ballymote as Ui Conaill Gabra, Ui Cairbri, Ui Liathain, Ui Cormaic, Tradraighe, Ui Cathbaid, and Eli.

Septs of the Uí Fidgeinti included O'Donovan, O'Collins, O'Flannery, and Lyons, among others, of mid and west Limerick. e.g. baronies of Shanid, Lower Connello, Kenry and Pubblebrien.

an early Uí Fidgeinti genealogy:   (Rawlinson)
Máel Ruanaid m. Máel Suthain m. Echthigirn m. Billrin m. Dúbartaich m. Gussáin m. Dúnadaich m. Gillai Fursu m. Conaill m. Cind Fáelad m. Duib Dá Bairenn m. Áeda Róin m. Éoganáin m. Crunnmaíl m. Áedo m. Óengusa (.i. Lappae) m. Ailella Cennfota m. h-Eircc m. Cairpri m. Brioin m. Fiachach Fidgenid m. Maine Munchaín m. Ailella Flaind Bic m. Fiachach Fir Dá Liach m. Éogain Máir m. Ailella Auluimm m. Moga Nuadat m. Moga Néit.

The Annals cite:

Uí Chairpri Éabha - by the 10th century an eastern portion of Uí Fidgeinti territory became the patrimony of the Uí Chairbre Éabha. The historian John O'Donovan describes the territory Uí Chairpri Aebhdha comprising the barony of Coshma and the districts around Brugh-righ (Bruree) and Kilmallock, and the plains on the west of the river Maigue as far as the Shannon. Uí Cairbre Aodha is also described in connection with Caonraoi, the barony of Kenry in co. Limerick (H. 1, 18, T.C.D., and O'Brien's Irish Dictionary). O'Hart (Pedigrees) mention O'Clerkin and O'Flannery as chiefs of Dal Cairbre Eva, in the barony of Kenry, county Limerick.
An early ruling sept of Uí Cairbre Eaodhe included Ua Donnubáin (O'Donovan). By the 13th century the O'Donovans were pushed by political pressure into the barony of Carbery into southwestern county Cork. MacLysaght (Irish Pedigrees) also notes the MacEnirys of the Ui Cairbre group, of the same stock as the O'Donovans. Pedigrees in the Book of Munster also gives septs of Uí Chairpri Eabha as O'Caolluighe (O'Kealy, Queally); O'Bruadair (Brouder, Broderick); and O'Cennfhaelaidh (Kenneally). It should be noted that a sept of Ua Cinnfhaelaidh (O'Kinneally) were noted in the Annals as kings of Ui-Conaill Gabhra.

Note: The Uí Cairpri Luachra, of Éoganacht Locha Lein affiliation, was also noted in the county Kerry, Cork, and Limerick region.

an early Ua Cairpri genealogy:   (Rawlinson)
Cenn Fáelad m. Duib Dá Bairenn m. Áeda Róin m. Éoganáin m. Crundmaíl m. Áeda m. Óengusa Lappae m. Ailella Cennfhota m. Eircc m. Cairpri m. Brioin m. Fiachach Fidgeinte.

an early O'Donnabhain genealogy:   (Book of Munster)
Murchadh, son of Amhlaoibh, son of Cathal, son of Donnabhain (a quo O Donnabhain), son of Cathal, son of Uainidhe, son of Cathal, son of Cionnfhaoladh, son of Dubhdaboireann, son of Aodh ruadh, son of Eoghan, son of Cronmhaol, son of Aodh, son of Aonghus, son of Laipe, son of Oilill, son of Cionnfhaola, son of Erc, son of Cairbre eabha (a quo Ui Chairbre Eabha), son of Brian, son of Fiachra Fighgheinte, son of Daire Cearba.

an early O'Cennfhaelaidh (Kenneally) genealogy:   (Book of Ui Maine)
Cennfhailadh (a quo Ui Cennfhaelaidh), son of Dubhdabhoireann, son of Aodh Roin, son of Cronnmhaol, son of Aodh, son of Aonghus, son of Laipe, son of Oilill, son of Cennfhaeladh, son of Erc, son of Cairbre eabha (a quo Ui Chairbre Eabha), son of Brian, son of Fiacha Fidhgheinte.

The Annals cite for the term Chairpri or Cairpri:

Uí Chonaill Gabra

Some of the western portions of Uí Fidgeinti territory became, largely, under the patrimony of the Uí Chonaill Gabra by the 10th century. This was roughly the baronies of Upper and Lower Connello in County Limerick, and the Uí Chonaill name survived as the country of Connello in western county Limerick. Since the large medieval barony of Connello also included the more modern baronies of Shanid and Glenquin, Uí Chonaill Gabra likely included this far western section of co. Limerick. Ua Cinnfhaelaidh and Ua Chuiléin were noted in the Annals as lords of Ui-Conaill-Gabhra in the 11th and 12th centuries.

Septs noted in the baronies of Connello included Ua Chuiléin (Collins), Ua Cinnfheadlidh (O'Kinneally), McEneiry, O'Sheehan, and O'Billry. O'Heerin (Topo. Poems) cites MacEneiry, chiefs of Corca Muiceadha (also called Conaill Uachtarach); O'Kenealy, chief of Eoganacht Grian Guara; and O'Billry, a chief of Hy-Conall Guara.

Ui Cuiléin and Uí Billraighe are noted by O'Donovan (Poems) in the baronies of upper and lower Connello. The Annals of Connacht note O'Cuilen as king of Claenglas, and O'Donovan's Supplement to O'Reilly's Irish Dictionary notes Claenglais as an early name for "commons of Cleanlish" in the parish of Killeedy, barony of Glenquin [in the old cantred of Conello].
According to McLysaght (Irish Pedigrees), the Mac Inneirghe (MacEnery) chiefs were located at Corcomohid (Corcro Mhuichet), an old name for the parish of Castletown, in the barony of Upper Connelloe, Co. Limerick. O'Hart (Pedigrees) calls their territory Corca Muiceadha, also called Conaill Uachtarach.
In addition to a O'Kenealy chief in the barony of Connello, O'Hart (Pedigrees) also mentions O'Kenealy chief of Eoganacht Grian Guara, a district comprising parts of the baronies of Coshma and Small County in Limerick. The Eoganacht Gabra and Eoganacht Guirt Gabra are noted by O'Donovan (Poems) in the barony of Connello.

Many of the familes were displaced or dispersed by the 13th century after the arrival of the Fitzgeralds. Collins is later noted in west Cork with their kinsmen, the O'Donovans (and in the area of the O'Cuilleain sept of the Corca Laoidhe). O'Billry seems to vanish as a surname.
O'Hart (Pedigrees) also mentions the name O'Connell as chief of Hy Cuilean, "a territory south-east of Abbeyfeale, in the barony of Upper Connello, on the verge of the county Limerick, towards the river Feale, and the borders of Cork and Kerry." These appear to be the O'Connells who were ancient chiefs in the barony of Magunihy in county Kerry, before their chiefs were driven west by the O'Donoghues in the 11th century.

an early Uí Chonaill Gabra genealogy:   (Rawlinson)
Flannabra m. Ciarmaccáin m. Flannabrat mc Scandláin m. Dúnadaig m. Scandláin m. Flaind m. Eircc m. Donennaich m. Óengusa m. Nechtain Cennfhota m. Brénaind m. Araide m. Conaill (a quo Úi Chonaill Gabra) m. Intait Dárai m. Brioin m. Fiachach Fidgeinti m. Dáre Cherbba (and/or Maine Munchaín) m. Ailella Flainn Bic.

an early O'Coileain (Collins) of Carbery genealogy:   (Book of Ui Maine)
Diarmuid, son of Raghnall, son of Raghnall, son of Niall, son of Giollachtain, son of Donnchadh, son of Tadhg (of the Plain), son of Conchubhar Og, son of Conchubhar, son of Domhnall, son of Conchubhar, son of Coilean (of Kerry), son of Tadhg, son of Diarmuid, son of Conchubhr, son of Coilean of the Battle, son of Amblaoibh, son of Dunadhach, son of Duinn, son of Caolluighe, son of Conall (a quo Ui Conall Gabhra), son of Brian, son of Fiacha Fidhgheinte.

The Annals cite:

Ua Laegaire of Munster - not to be confused with the Ui Laegaire, e.g. the O Donoghoes, who descend from Laegaire, 4th in descent from Corc.

an early Ua Laegaire genealogy:   (Rawlinson)
Snéidgal & Éládach dá mc Conamla m. Rotáin m. Áedáin m. Sinchill m. Sétna m. Threna m. Áeda m. Láegaire m. Fiachach Fidgeinte.


Ua Setnai

an early Ua Setnai genealogy:   (Rawlinson)
Conallach m. Máelodráin m. Marcáin m. Áeda m. Fiachrach m. Cellacháin m. Cuircc m. Sétnai m. Fiachach Fidgeinte.

Irish chiefs and clans of ancient Thomond
Excerpts from "Irish Pedigrees; or The Origin and Stem of the Irish Nation", by John O'Hart (1892).
(edited for County Clare names)

O'Brien, early kings and lords of Thomond.
O'Dea, chief of Dysart-O'Dea, now the parish of Dysart, barony of Inchiquin, county Clare.
O'Quinn, chief of Muintir Ifernain, a territory about Corofin in the county Clare. The O'Heffernans were the tribe who possessed this territory; over whom O'Quinn was chief. These O'Quinns had also possessions in Limerick, where they became earls of Dunraven.
O'Flattery, and O'Cahil, chiefs of Fianchora.
O'Mulmea (or Mulmy), chief of Breintire, now Brentry, near Callan hill, in the county Clare.
O'Hehir(or O'Haiéhir), chief of Hy-Flancha and Hy-Cormac, districts in the barony of Islands; and (according to O'Halloran) of Callan, in the county Clare.
O'Dugan, O'Duibhgin, (or O'Deegan), chief of Muintir Conlochta, a district in the parish of Tomgraney, in the barony of Tullagh, county Clare.
O'Grady, chief of Cíneal Dongally, a large territory comprising the present barony of Lower Tullagh, county Clare. The O'Gradys had also large possessions in the county Limerick; ...
MacNamara or MacConmara (literally a warrior of the sea) was chief of the territory of Clan Caisin, now the barony of Tullagh, in the county Clare. The Macnamaras were also sometimes styled chiefs of Clan Cuilean, which was the tribe name of the family; derived from Cuilean, one of their chiefs in the eight century. This ancient family held the high and honourable office of hereditary marshals of Thomond.
O'Connor, chief of the territory of Fear Arda and of Corcomroe, at present a barony in the county Clare.
O'Loughlin, chief of Burren, now the barony of Burren, county Clare, which was sometimes called Eastern Corcomroe. The O'Loghlins and O'Connors here mentioned were of the same descent: namely, a branch of the Clan na Rory, descended from the ancient kings of Ulster of the race of Ir.
MacDonnell and O'Baskin, chiefs of the territories of Corca Baisgin or Baiscind, now the barony of Moyarta, in the county Clare.
O'Mulcorcra was chief of Hy-Bracain, now the barony of Ibracken; and O'Keely was another chief of the same place. One of the Corca Baiscinds here mentioned was the present barony of Clonderlaw.
MacMahon. The MacMahons succeeded the above chiefs, as lords of Corca Baisgin; and possessed the greater part of the baronies of Moyarta and Clonderlaw, in the county Clare. In O'Brien's Dictionary these MacMahons and MacDonnells are given as branches of the O'Briens, the posterity of Brian Boru; and, therefore, of quite a different descent from the MacMahons, princes and lords of Monaghan, and the MacDonnells, earls of Antrim, and the MacDonnells of Kilkee, county Clare, who were of the race of Clan Colla.
O'Gorman, chief of Tullichrin, a territory comprising parts of the baronies of Moyarta and Ibrackan, in the county Clare.
O'Diocholla and O'Mullethy or Multhy, were chiefs in Corcomroe.
O'Drennan, chief of Slieve Eise, Finn, and of Cinel-Seudna, a district on the borders of Clare and Galway.
O'Neill, chief of Clan Dalvy and of Tradree, a district in the barony of Inchiquinn, county Clare. A branch of this family went in the tenth century to Limerick, to assist in the expulsion of the Danes, over whom they gained several victories; and on one occasion, having worn green boughs in their helmets and on their horses' heads, they, from this circumstance, got the epithet craebhach (i.e. Ramifer), signifying of the branches: a name which has been anglicised "Creagh." Of these Mac Gilla Craeibhe of "Creagh" family there are still many respectable families in the counties of Clare, Cork, and Tipperary. Some of those O'Neills, who were of the Ui-Bloid, of the race of Heber, changed their name to Nihel, and some to Newell; but they were all of the same stock as the O'Briens of Thomond.
O'Davoran, chief of Muintir Lidheagha (or O'Liddy), the tribe name of this clan; whose territory was situated in the barony of Corcomroe, and at Ballynalaken, near Lisdoonvarna, county Clare.
O'Moloney, were chiefs of Cuiltenan, now the parish of Kiltonanlea, in the barony of Tulla, county Clare.
O'Kearney, as chiefs of Avon-Ui-Cearney or O'Kearney's river, a district about Six-Mile-Bridge, in the baronies of Tulla and Bunratty, county Clare.
O'Hallinan and MacSheehy, chiefs of Ballyhallinan, in the barony of Pubblebrien, county Limerick.
O'Halloran, chiefs of Fay Ui-Hallurain, a district between Tulla and Clare, in the county Clare.
Lysaght, placed in a district about Ennistymon;
MacConsidine, in the barony of Ibrackan;
O'Daly of Leath Mogha or Munster, in the barony of Burren;
MacGillereagh (MacGilroy, MacGilrea, Gilroy, Kilroy) in the barony of Clonderlaw;
MacClancy, in the barony of Tulla;
MacBruodin, in the barony of Inchiquin: all in the county Clare.

Some Families of co. Clare, and Gaelic equivalent
O'Brien, Ó Briain
MacBrody, MacBruaideadha
Bruodin, Brodin, Broderick, Ó Bruadair
MacClancy, MacFlannacadha
O'Cleary, Clery, MacCleary, Ó Cleirigh
O'Connor, O'Conor, Ó Conchobhair
McConsidine, MacConsaidín
O'Daly, Daly, Ó Dálaigh
O'Davoran, O'Davoren, Ó Dabhoireann
O'Dea, O'Day, O'Dee, Ó Deághaidh
O'Grady, Ó Grádaigh, Ó Gráda
McGrath, MacCraith
O'Halloran, Halloran, Ó h-Allmhurain
O'Hickey, Ó hIceada
O'Hogan, Hogan, Ó hOgáin
O'Heyne, Hynes, Hines, Ó h-Eidhin
MacInerney, MacEnery, Mac an Airchinnigh
Kennedy, O'Kennedy, Ó Cinnéide
O'Loughlin, O'Loghlen, Ó Lochlainn
MacMahon, MacMathúna
O'Molony, O'Moloney, Ó Maoldomhnaigh
O'Mulconry, Ó Maolconaire
MacNamara, MacConmara
map reproduced from Irish Families, by Edward MacLysaght


Irish chiefs and clans of ancient Ormond   (and Ely)
Excerpts from "Irish Pedigrees; or The Origin and Stem of the Irish Nation", by John O'Hart (1892).
(edited for County Tipperary names, and with additional notes in dark red)

O'Carroll, Prince of Ely, ruled according to O'Heerin, over eight subordinate chiefs; and had their castle at Birr, now Parsonstown, in the King's County. The territory of "Ely" got its name from Eile, one of its princes, in the fifth century; and from being possessed by the O'Carrolls, was called "Ely O'Carroll;" The part of Ely in the King's County belonged to the ancient province of Munster. Notes: Also see Éile.
O'Kennedy, of Munster, chief of Gleann Omra; were of the Dalcassian race; and possessed the barony of Upper Ormond, in the county Tipperary. Notes: Gleann Omra was co-extensive with the parish of Killokennedy in county Clare, originally held by O'Kennedy prior to moving across the river Shannon into Muscraighe Tire (Ormond). Also see Síl Cennétich
O'Shanahan (or O'Shannon), descended from Lorcan, a king of Munster, who was grandfather of Brian Boru: hence, the O'Shanahans or Shannons are a branch of the Dalcassians, who were also designated Clan Tail. The O'Shannons were chiefs of a territory called Feadha Hy Rongaile or the Woods of Hy-Rongaile comprising the country about Eibhline; and, as Slieve Eibhline is stated in the old writers to be near Cashel, this territory appears to have been situated either in the barony of Middlethird or of Eliogarty. Notes: (Ó Seanachain of Ui Bloid). Ui Rongaile is described by O'Donovan (Topo. Poems) as coextensive with the parishes of Kilnoe and Killuran in county Clare, and and Ebhlinn in or near these parishes. Slieve Eibhline, alias the Sliabh Phelim mountains, are near Cashel. MacLysaght places the O'Shanahans in the north of the barony of Tulla, between Bodyke and Feakle, in county Clare; the parish of Kilnoe lies in the south of the same barony. The O'Shanahans of Clare became dispersed by the MacNamaras in the 14th century.
O'Dwyer, chief of Hy-Aimrit, was a branch of the Heremonians; and possessed extensive territory in the present baronies of Kilnamanagh, county Tipperary. Notes: (Ó Duibhir or Ó Dubhuidhir). Uí Aimrit of Duibhidhir; alias Muinter Midhasa. Cairney (Clans & Familes) places the O'Dwyers in the lineage of the Dal Cairpre Arad. Their territory was centered in the mountains of Kilnamanagh between the town of Thurles and the Limerick border, where they held power and resisted the encroachments of the English down to modern times.
O'Dea, and O'Hoiliolla (or O'Hulla), are given by O'Heerin as chiefs of Sliabh Ardach, now the barony of "Slieveardagh," in Tipperary. Notes: Árda, or Sliabh Árdachaidh, a mountain east of Cashel, the land of a tribe of the O'Deas. A sept of Ui Ailella is mentioned in the Book of Leinster in Airthiur Eoganacht Caisil
O'Carthy, chief of Muiscridh Iarthar Feimin -- a territory which, according to O'Halloran, was situated near Emly, in Tipperary. Notes: Muscraighe Airthir Feimin was in the vicinity from Cashel to Clonmel and the ancient land of the MacCarthys and O'Sullivans before being driven into county Cork.
O'Meara, chief of Hy-Fathaidh, Hy-Niall, and Hy-Eochaidh-Finn. The O'Mearas had an extensive territory in the barony of Upper Ormond, county Tipperary; and the name of their chief residences Tuaim-ui-Meara, is still retained in the town of "Toomavara," in that district. The Hy-Nialls here mentioned were of the race of Eugenius of Munster. Notes: (Ó Meadhra). O'Meara (and O'Mara) are cited by MacLysaght (Irish Families) with northern county Tipperary origins. An Ui Fathaidh is described by multiple sources in the barony of Iffa and Offa West, county Tippereray. An Ui Eogain Finn is decribed by O'Donovan (Poems) in North Déisi, county Tipperary, indicating an affiliation with the barony of Iffa and Offa.
O'Meagher or Maher, chief of Crioch-ui-Cairin, or the land of Hy-Kerrin, now the barony of "Ikerin," in the county Tipperary. Notes: (Ó Meachair). O'Heerin (Poems) - Crioch Keerin, or Ui Cairin, now anglicised Ikerrin.
O'Flanagan, chiefs of Uachtar Tire and of Cinel Agra. The district of Uachtar Tire (or the Upper Country) was situated in the barony of Iffa and Offa, on the borders of Tipperary and Waterford; and that of Cinel Agra, in Ely O'Carroll, in the King's County. Notes: (Ó Flannagáin). The Ui Flannacan Eli, alias Cenél Farga, occupied the barony of of Ballybrit, King's county (Index of Annals of Loch Cé).
O'Breslin, chief of Hy-Athy of Ely, which appears to have been a part of Ely O'Carroll, situated near the Shannon; and these O'Breslins were probably a branch of the O'Breslins of Donegal, who were Brehons or judges to the O'Donnells, princes of Tirconnell, and to the MacGuires, princes of Fermanagh. Notes: (Ó Breislein). O'Breslen was chief of Fanad in county Donegal. Keating (History) mentions the O'Breslen settled near the river Shannon and obtained lands "by force of battle."
O'Keane, chief of Hy-Fodhladha, a district supposed to be on the borders of Tipperary and Waterford. Notes: O'Laughlin (Book of Irish Familes) states that O'Cein or O'Kean, chief of Fodhladha, is mentioned by Aryan, i.e. "O'Kean from Machuin Meadaidh. His fame shall spread over tribes." He also notes that in Waterford this family was centered in the barony of Decies without Drum. MacLysaght (Irish Families) mentions a sept named Kean (Ó Cein) of county Waterford who is cited in O'Heerins Poem. He also mentions the O'Keanes of Thomond, citing no specific geographic region.
O'Donegan (or O'Dongan) prince of Aradh, was of the race of Heremon. The O'Donegans were styled princes of Muiscrith Tire, now Lower Ormond, in Tipperary; and possessed Aradh Cliach, now the barony of Owney and Arra, also in Tipperary. Notes: Also see Múscraige Tíre.
O'Donnelly, or O'Dongally, and O'Fuirig (or O'Furey), also chiefs of Muiscrith Tire. Notes: Also see Múscraige Tíre.
O'Fogarty, chiefs of South Ely, now the barony of Eliogarty, in Tipperary, had their chief seats about Thurles; it was called South Ely, to distinguish it from North Ely or Ely O'Carroll. Notes: Also see Eile Ui Fogartaigh.
O'Cullen, chief of Eoganacht of Arra; and O'Keely, chief of Aolmoy: these two districts appear to have been in the barony of Owney and Arra, in Tipperary.
O'Duinechair and O'Dinan, chiefs of Eoganacht Uaithne Ageamar [Owney Agamar]. This territory comprised part of the counties of Tipperary and Limerick, now the baronies of Owney and Owneybeg. Notes: Also see Uaithne
O'Ryan or O'Mulrian of Tipperary, afterwards possessed Owney in Tipperary, and Owneybeg in Limerick. Notes: Their territory also became known as Uaithne-Ui-Mhaoilriain. Also see Uaithne
O'Mearns, chief of Eoganacht Ross Airgid. Notes: Ros Airgaid was situated in or near the barony of Upper Ormond, Co. Tipperary. A sept of Eoganachts of Rosarguid included Sil Mailedúin. Dun Cais in Upper Ormond was a seat of the Eoganacht Ruis Arguid (Topo. Poems).
MacKeogh or Kehoe, chief of Uaithne Tire, a territory situated in ancient Owney, which comprised the present baronies of Owney and Arra, in Tipperary; and Owneybeg, in Limerick. In that territory also dwelt the O'Linskeys or Lynches, who are described as "men of lands," dwelling in the neighbourhood of the Danes, who possessed Limerick. Notes: Also see Uaithne
O'Heffernan and O'Callanan were chiefs of Owney Cliach, a territory situated in the barony of Owney and Arra, county Tipperary; these O'Heffernans were a branch of the O'Heffernans of Clare. Notes: Also see Uaithne
MacLenehan (Irish Mac Longachain), chief of Crota Cliach, and Hy-Coonagh. This territory was situated partly in the barony of Owney and Arra, in Tipperary, and partly in the barony of Coonagh, county Limerick. The O'Dwyers, chiefs of Kilnamanagh, in Tipperary, were also located in this territory. Notes: Keating in his History locates the Mac Longachains about the border of Tipperary and Limerick, alongside the O'Dwyers. The surname may have evolved into such variants as as Longan, Long, Lenihan and Linehan.
O'Lonergan, ancient chiefs and proprietors of Cahir, and the adjoining districts in Tipperary, till the fourteenth century, when they were dispossessed by the Butlers, earls of Ormond. Notes: Originally situated in northeast county Tipperary, the Lonergans were pressured southwards toward the country around Cashel and Cahir. They, along with O'Hartigan of Munster, were noted of the Cineal mBaoith (Baoi) in descent from Aongus Ceannathrach, i.e. Dalcassian; and noted among the followers of Brian Bóraimhe at Clontarf.
Mac I Brien or MacBrien, a branch of the O'Briens of Thomond, had large possessions in the barony of Owney and Arra, in Tipperary, and in the barony of Coonagh, county Limerick; and were styled lords of Arra and Coonagh. Notes: Also see Dal gCais
MacCorcoran, chief of Clan Rooney, "of the flowery avenues." Notes: The Mac Corocorans, of Clan Ruanni, were an important sept in Ely O'Carroll, located in both counties Offaly and Tipperary. O'Hart (Pedigrees) cites their descent from Ely O'Carroll lineage, noted as chiefs in the parish of Killenaule, barony of Slievardagh, county Tipperary.
O'Hogan, chief of Crioch Cian, about Lower Ormond, in Tipperary. Notes: Crioch Chein (O'Hogan or O'Hegan), is described as one of the tuaths under Eile O'Carroll by O'Heerin (Topo. Poems). Ardcrony, 4 1/2 miles north of Nenagh, was the site of a ruined castle and church built by the O'Hogans
MacGillfoyle or Gilfoyle, chief of Clan Quinlevan. The MacGillfoyles appear to have been located on the borders of Tipperary and King's County; and some of the O'Quinlevans have changed the name to "Quinlan." Notes: (Mac Giolla Phóil). The MacGilfoyles chiefs were seated in the vicinity of Shinrone, county Offaly, in Ely O'Carroll country. O'Heerin (Topo. Poems) calls the MacGilfoyle chief "the scion of Birra of the warlike tribe, is Mac Gilla-Phoill of fair fortune." The O'Quinlivans, according to Keating (History), sometimes changed their name to "Quinlan" and are now numerous in Tipperary and Limerick.
O'Bannan or Bannin, chief of Hy-Dechi, a territory situated in the north of Tipperary. Notes: Ui Déice was the tribe-name of the Ui Banáin of Leap Castle, in the Barony of Clonlisk near Roscrea. They were once seated at Leim Ui Bhanain, now Leap Castle, which later became an Ely O'Caroll castle.
O'Ailche, chief of Tuatha Faralt. Notes: O'Hart (Pedigrees) also mentions the O'h-Ailche family, anglicised Halley and Hally, as a branch of the O'Kennedys of Ormond, descendants of Cormac Cas. Tuatha-Fearalt, a district in the county of Tipperary (perhaps in Hy-Fogharty), was the lordship of the family, whom O'Heerin mentions. O'Donovan (Topo. Poems) mentions the Ui Aliche, now Halley, in the barony of Ikerrin or near Templemore, county Tipperary. MacLysaght (More Irish Families) mentions Ó hAilche (Halley) as a small sept around Templemore. Keating (History) mentions the land of the family as "a plain of fair fortresses and a numerous tribe, like the lands of the shallow rivers of Taiti. The Book of Lecan mentions the name Ailche of Muscraidi Tíre (baronies of Ormond), from whom are Ui Lachtnain of Ard na nÉn and Ui Luinin of Druim Inbhir (barony of lower Ormond, co. Tipperary.)
O'Cahill, chief of Corca Tine, situated on the borders of Tipperary and Kilkenny. Notes: O'Heerin (Topo. Poems) describes Corca Tine and Ely the southern next to one another in his poem, which would seem to indicate Corca Tine was in (or near) the barony of Elyogarty, county Tipperary. MacLysaght (Irish Families) gives this sept of O'Cahill located between Thurles and Templemore. O'Donovan's Supplement to O'Reilly's Irish Dictionary places the territory of Corco Thened in the parish of Templemore, and the name Corketenny in the deanery of Eliogarty seems to be applied to the same in Sweetman & Handcock's Calendar of Documents. MacFirbis' Book of Genealogies makes note of the Ui Cuanach of Corco Teneadh and the Ui Lachtnan of Bearnán Ele, the latter location being the name of the parish next to Templemore. The parish of Ballycahill in Eliogarty, and the townland of Ballycahill in Templemore (in Eliogarty) indicate the presence of the O'Cahill chiefs in this vicinity.
O'Dinnerty and O'Amry, clans located on the borders of Tipperary and Kilkenny. Notes: O'Heerin mentions the name O'Dinerty, alongside O'Hamery, and the placement within the poem may suggest a location in either the baronies of Ikerrin or Eliogarty, Ikerrin bordering on the medieval county of Kilkenny. The name O'Hamery may have evolved into surnames such a Amery or Amory.
O'Spillane, chief of Hy-Luighdeach, situated on the borders of Tipperary and Kilkenny. Notes: The Spillanes were sept (of the Dál gCais?) who were anciently chiefs of Ui Luighdheach, or Ileagh, in the present Barony of Eliogarty in Tipperary. According to MacLysaght (Irish Families), they were dispossesed of their lands by the O'Dwyers in early medieval times and perhaps later moving into Cork and Kerry. The large townland of Ballyspellan (Baile Ui Speallain), suggests an early presence of the O'Spillanes in adjoining Galmoy barony in county Kilkenny.
MacEagan, in the barony of Arra, were hereditary Brehons; and O'Cullenan or MacCullinan, hereditary physicians in Ormond. Notes: The MacEagan were originally a Brehon (law) family among the Ui Maine septs, who later settled chiefly in Ormond. The O'Cullinans are traditionally found in counties Cork, Clare and Waterford. A sept was recorded as early chiefs in the barony of Barryroe in county Cork, as a branch of the Corca Laidhe (MacLysaght). In addition, the sept of O'Cullinane had their origins in the barony of Orrery, County Cork, as Lords of Muscraighe Tri Maighe (O'Brien's Irish Dictionary).
O'Scully, O'Hanrahan, O'Lanigan, and MacGrath, were also clans of note in Tipperary; and O'Honeen, who changed their name to "Green," and "Hoyne," were numerous in Tipperary and Clare. Notes: The Scullys were a Westmeath sept who moved into Tipperary on the heels of the Anglo-Norman arrival cited near Lorrha in north Tipperary as eranaghs of the church of St. Ruan. The O'Hanrahans were a Daclassian sept of counties Clare and Tipperary. The O'Lanigans are traditionally linked to counties Kilkenny and Tipperary. The Mac Graths of county Clare were hereditary poets to the ruling O'Briens, who are said to have spread into Tipperary and Waterford. The O'Honeens as noted by MacLysaght as a Dalcassian sept of west Munster (Clare, Tippery, etc), the Gaelic form of the name given as Ó hUathnin. On his map, MacLysaght places the surname Honeen in the Corca Mruad (Burren) region of northwest county Clare.
O'Riordan, O'Riordan, a clan of note in Muskerry; and distinguished military chiefs in ancient times. Notes: The surname originated in the area between the modern towns of Thurles in Co. Tipperary and Birr in Co. Offaly known as "Ely O’Carroll", the kingdom of Éile. Interestingly, a genealogy for O'Riordain, in descent from the Eoganacht, is given in the Book of Munster. With pressure from the rise in power of the Dal gCais (O'Briens) the Riordans migrated into county Cork by the 12th century, where they eventually settled in the Muskerry region of west Cork.

Further Munster Reference: Mumhan * Map * Kings of Munster * Annals for Munster

Further Province Reference: Index * Connacht * Leinster * Mide * Munster * Ulster

Further Reference at this site:
Ireland's History in Maps - Home Page
Old Irish Surnames
Kingdoms and Clans



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