Holy well in Kilrodane

Holy well located in field to S of St. Rodan's church site (LI028-131001-) and levelled graveyard (LI028-131002-). Described in the Ordnance Survey Letters as 'there was a little church and burial ground dedicated to St. Rodan, but both have been destroyed and the spot which they occupied is now part of a meadow' (ibid.). The following folklore was recorded from Ardagh National School about Kilrodane Well; 'In former times there was a church-yard and also a well in Kilrodane. The remains of them are still to be seen in Mr. Hogan's land' (The Schools’ Collection, Volume 0487, Page 174; accessible online at www.duchas.ie/en/cbes/4921957/4913310/4935463). See attached photo taken in 1954 by Caoimhín Ó Danachair, courtesy of and © National Folklore Collection, UCD. The Photographic Collection, F025.21.00309 accessible online at www.duchas.ie/en/cbeg/17035. Compiled by: Caimin O'Brien Date of upload: 1 October 2020

Linked to St. Rodan, the well is associated with early Christian worship in the area, and such holy wells were often believed to have curative properties, particularly for ailments of the eyes and skin. Local tradition may have included rituals such as leaving coins or making offerings at the site.