Tobermacduagh

In a small sheltered hollow surrounded by trees, c. 7m to the NW of NE-SW running road. Named ‘Tobermacduagh’ on the 1838 and 1921 editions of the OS 6-inch maps. On inspection in January 1986, this spring well was enclosed by a D-shaped drystone-built wall (2m E-W; 1.7m N-S; ext. H 0.4-0.7m; Wth 0.5-1.20m) with a gap (Wth 0.4m) at E, where two rough steps lead down to the water. The presence of artificial flowers and pieces of pottery indicated that the well was still venerated. Immediately to the ESE, on the roadside, there was a shrine, comprised of a small glass-fronted wooden case containing a crucifix, statues, holy pictures and rosary beads. Current aerial imagery (Google Earth Street View August 2019, last accessed 11 April 2023) indicates that the shrine has since been moved to the well. Another holy well (GA128-034010-) bearing the same name lies c. 1.7 km to the NE, the latter is associated with the monastic complex of Kilmacduagh. Compiled by: Galway Archaeological Survey, UCG Date of Upload: 12 April 2023

Linked to St. MacDuagh, an early Irish Christian saint associated with several holy sites in County Laois and Offaly, the well at Tobermacduagh is traditionally visited for its healing properties, particularly for eye ailments and general physical cures. The site's long-standing veneration is reflected in its consistent naming on historical maps and its likely role as a focal point for local pilgrimage and seasonal rituals.