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The precise location of Smearagh Castle in the townland of Ballyoran which was formerly known as Smearagh has not been identified. House indicated within the townland on early 17th century map of the area (Loeber 1988, vol. 1, 10), depicted as a small building at Smearagh. In 1641 the owner of the lands is listed as Owney Molloy (RIA, Ms, G-IV-2). In 1666 the lands were confiscated and granted to Sir William Petty (Loeber 1988, vol. 1, 10). In 1213 Cormack macArt O Melaghlin plundered Ballyboy and the castle of Smarlie (Smearagh?), this may be the building that is depicted on the Down Survey (1655-6) map (Loeber 1988, vol. 4, 46).
The above description is derived from the published 'Archaeological Inventory of County Offaly' (Dublin: Stationery Office, 1997). In certain instances the entries have been revised and updated in the light of recent research.
Date of upload: 23 May 2011
The monument record does not grant public access. Check the route and ask the landowner before entering private land.
The map shows the centre of the officially named townland area, not the monument. The government record does not identify the exact monument point.