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Ballykerogue
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Ballykeroguemore Church from the
west
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About 200 metres from Ballykerogue castle
is Ballykerogue church and graveyard. The castle was the
main residence of the Suttons. Roger de Sutton came on the
norman landing with Robert Fitzstephen in 1169 and
received land from Hervey de Monte Marisco. He probably
built the church here. It is a medieval church and was at
one time the parish church of Ballybrazil. The church is
situated on the north east side of the graveyard. The
North, South and East walls still stand and a portion of
the West wall.
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East wall of church
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The church measures 8 metres from East to
West or 27 feet. It is over 6 metres from North to South
or 20 feet. The height of the North and South walls is 2.5
metres or 8 feet. There is a small window on the east wall
with two alcoves on either side. There are also two ledges
which now have flower pots on them. A number of very old
flag stones can be seen on the ground.
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South wall
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The south wall also has a narrow window
with an alcove to its left. These alcoves could have
been used for storing sacred vessels. The north wall has
one window as well. There is a parapet on the top of the
north and south walls.
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Holy water font
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An interesting feature can be seen close to the
west entrance. It is a holy water font or a stoup which
was carved from granite. It is built into the wall and
could also have been the baptismal font.
When Cromwell attacked Ballykerogue castle in 1649 we
don't know whether he also attacked the church.
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Ballykerogue Cemetery with east
wall of church in background
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Please remember that this ancient
graveyard is still in use. Seán Crowley.
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Please
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