DUNBEG, or DOONBEG

DUNBEG, or DOONBEG, a village, in the parish of KILLARD, barony of IBRICKANE, county of CLARE, and province of MUNSTER, 6 miles (N. W.) from Kilrush, on the bay of Dunmore; containing 213 inhabitants. The river Dunbeg flows into the harbour and is here crossed by a good bridge, near which stand the ruins of a lofty castle, formerly a defence to the harbour, and one of the ancient strong holds of the O'Briens. The harbour which is the only one, excepting Liscanor, between Loop head and the bay of Galway, an extent of nearly 40 miles, is rendered dangerous by the rocks at its entrance. The pier, built by the late Fishery Board, is small and not much frequented; sea-weed is landed here, and flags of a superior quality, raised near the village, are sent to Galway, Limerick, and Cork; it also forms a place of refuge for small craft in bad weather. Here is a station of the coast-guard. Fairs are held on May 2nd, July 26th, Oct. 8th, and Dec. 16th, for general farming stock, and for flannel and frieze of home manufacture. Near the bridge is a flour-mill. A court for the manor of Kilrush, in which small debts are recoverable, is held once in six weeks. In the village is a R. C. chapel, and about a quarter of a mile from it is the newly erected parochial church.

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