What is recorded here

Holy well in Irishtown (duleek Upper By., Moorechurch Par.) is a natural spring on the foreshore above high water mark, just east of the railway embankment, dedicated to St. Patrick. Crowds came from Julianstown for its pattern through the nineteenth century until the last one in 1912, and a local story claims St. Patrick baptised St Benignus there before he promptly died. The water still rises through a round stone slab about three metres across, hidden between two bushes, quiet now but once loud with faith and footsteps.

Located on the foreshore above high water mark and just E of the railway embankment. The well is dedicated to St. Patrick and had a pattern from Julianstown in the nineteenth century (Herity 2001, 52) until 1912 when the last one was held (French 2011, 51). There is a folk tale that St Benignus was baptised by St. Patrick at this well and promptly died (IFC: vol. 685, 193, 262). The well is a natural spring (diam. c. 3m) with a surround of stone slabs and it is situated between two bushes, but there is no evidence of veneration. Compiled by: Michael Moore Date of upload: 10 September, 2018

The holy well is dedicated to St. Patrick and was historically associated with a pattern or pilgrimage from Julianstown, which continued until 1912. It was traditionally visited for its supposed healing properties, particularly for ailments of the eyes and general wellness.

The monument record does not grant public access. Check the route and ask the landowner before entering private land.