St Marys Well

One of two wells (the other CO006-006002-) within an early ecclesiastical enclosure (CO006-006011-); in the NE quadrant, close to the N bank of a stream. Circular stone-lined well covered by square stone-built, flat-topped structure; a statue of the Blessed Virgin sits on top. A low wall, with entrance to the S, surrounds the well and the area around it. The well is described by Reeves (1858, 274) as 'cased inside with blocks of oak, about three feet deep, rudely squared...believed to have been formerly lined with lead.' Photograph taken in 1907 (Grove White 1905-25, vol. 4, 264) shows a low square drystone surround with a lintelled ope. According to Bowman (1934, 701), many miracles were performed at the well; it is locally called 'The Blessed Virgin's Well' where rounds are paid on February 18th and on Fridays and Saturdays throughout the year. Bowman gives (ibid.) the meaning of the townland name as 'hole of the finger' and says the well cured sore fingers; according to Grove White (ibid., 273), it cured sore arms and legs and was famed for its minerals. Larkin (1978-9, 52) notes the well was used as a baptistery until it was granted to a Cromwellian soldier who lost his fingers trying to remove its lead lining - hence 'Poll a mheir' (hole of the finger). The above description is derived from the published 'Archaeological Inventory of County Cork. Volume 4: North Cork' (Dublin: Stationery Office, 2000). In certain instances the entries have been revised and updated in the light of recent research.   See also: https://holywellscorkandkerry.com/2016/06/27/a-trio-of-wells-in-tullylease/ Date of upload: 14 January 2009

Linked to St Mary, the well is traditionally associated with healing and protection, with pilgrims historically visiting to seek cures for ailments and to collect water for blessings. The site's location within an early ecclesiastical enclosure suggests its religious significance dates back to the early Christian period in Ireland.