Holy well in Bigwood

The precise location of the holy well in the townland of Bigwood has not been identified. In 1937-9 the following folklore about this holy well was recorded from Finea National School; 'St. Bridgets Well is situated on Maoil Hill, Carlanstown, Castletown Co Westmeath. On 1st February people crowd to it for tradition says that if the water is lifted before sun-rise on that day that it will cure diseases. It is supposed that St. Bridget knelt down to drink at this well and she left the imprint of her knee and hand on the stone which is situated beside the spring. It can be seen to the present day. The most remarkable thing about this well is that it is on the side of a very steep hill and appears to be gushing out of the rock. Tradition says if nine cattle go to it to drink that there would be water for all except one' (The Schools’ Collection, Volume 0719, Page 030; www.duchas.ie). Finnea National School recorded the following tradition about the same well which was known as 'The Rose Well', the folklore recorded stated that 'The Rose Well on Maoil Hill is supposed to cure 'the rose', a big lump which grows on the body and doctors cannot cure it' (The Schools’ Collection, Volume 0719, Page 032; www.duchas.ie) Compiled by: Caimin O'Brien Date of upload: 10 September 2018

St. Bridget's Well is traditionally associated with St. Brigid of Kildare, a prominent Irish saint linked to healing and fertility. The well was likely visited for ritual washing or drinking as part of local customs, particularly on Imbolc, the festival marking the beginning of spring.