What is recorded here

Kilnacally Castle vanished into Elmpark Demesne after Hugh Massy bought the land in 1757, yet O'Brien holders defended it as late as 1655. The castle likely stands buried beneath Clarina's gardens, waiting for a shovel or a storm to reveal its bones.

The precise location of Kilnacally Castle in the townland of Elmpark Demesne has not been identified. Westropp (1906-07, 147) recorded the following details about Kilnacally; '1201 Kellnachallichi belonged to the church of Limerick (B.B.L., No. xxi.). 1410 Keilnacailly, near Claireene Bridge ("Torn Rolls," White MS.). 1583 Kylnecally C[astle], Corcamore (Des. R., 35b), Mahon Merigath (O'Brien) held it (Ib., 38b). 1655 Don mac Mahon (O'Brien) of Cragbege held it. It corresponds to the western and middle part of Elm Park (C.S.,p. 19). It was purchased by Hugh Massy of Duntrileague, "Elm or Kilnekelly," 1757 (will in Dublin Reg., B, 187, No. 127227), and is the residence of a branch of that family, the Barons of Clarina'. Compiled by: Caimin O'Brien Date of upload: 20 November 2020

Kilnacally Castle in Elmpark Demesne was recorded as belonging to the church in 1201. Its early medieval association with ecclesiastical ownership highlights the role of religious institutions in landholding during that period.

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