Why this matters
Linked to Saint Patrick's tradition through its blessing by Father Byrne in the 19th century, the well at Derrinturn was historically visited for relief from toothache. The practice of visiting on Trinity Sunday reflects broader Irish customs of seeking cures at holy wells during significant Christian festivals.
What is recorded here
Traditionally visited on Trinity Sunday (the eight Sunday after Easter), Jackson (1979-80, 144-5) records it as 'Fr. Byrne's Well', named for a 19th century priest who blessed the well, which was visited for toothache cures. In a graveyard immediately N of a modern church (built in 1809). A small, circular well (int. diam. 0.9m) is enclosed below ground-level by a well-built limestone wall with six steps at W leading down to the water (D 1.2m), and is roofed by a single stone slab at ground-level. A plaque records its restoration in 1999. Jackson (op. cit.) mentions that there was a second holy well (KD008-035----) in this townland.
Compiled by: Gearóid Conroy
Date of upload: 10 June 2011
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