10th Earl of Antrim marks 400th anniversary of ancestor’s pilgrimage to County Roscommon

Another chapter in an intriguing centuries old story was written recently when the 10th Earl of Antrim, Randall MacDonnell, visited Brideswell in South Roscommon to mark the 400th anniversary of his ancestor’s pilgrimage to the local holy well in 1625.

The Earl’s attendance during the recent Brideswell Pattern Festival marked the special anniversary of the erection of a gateway and plaque leading to the holy well. They were erected in 1625 by the 1st Earl of Antrim, Randall McSorley MacDonnell, and the plaque bears the family coat of arms.

Exactly 400 years ago this year, the 1st Earl of Antrim came to Brideswell with his wife, Ailsis O’Neill, the eldest daughter of Hugh O’Neill, the Earl of Tyrone. Apparently, Randall and Ailsis were struggling to have children and it’s recorded they travelled to the holy well in Brideswell to seek divine help.

Speaking to the gathering after the annual Pattern Mass held recently in the village, the 10th Earl of Antrim explained that St. Brigid’s well was already known as a place of prayer, pilgrimage and petition. 

Mr MacDonnell pointed out that it would certainly have been a long and arduous journey for Hugh and Ailsis O’Neill who hailed from the Glens of Antrim. “Thankfully, it’s been a whole lot easier for this cohort of McDonalds to make it here in modern times. We’ll be home by six this evening,” he quipped.

During his address, the Earl went on to explain that “happily their prayers (his ancestors) were answered, and a family did follow, no less than eight children”.

Mr Randalll said that four centuries on, the MacDonnell family was honoured to be in Brideswell to acknowledge and celebrate the anniversary and “reflect on the thread that connects the past and the present”.

“So, I stand here today, all these generations later, as one small part of that continuing story. I’d like to take the opportunity to thank the community here in Brideswell for their warm welcome and for keeping this special place and tradition alive.

“It’s a remarkable thing to stand in the footsteps of someone from so long ago, especially in a place that still welcomes those seeking reflection, hope or healing.

“We feel moved and honoured to be here today and we’re very grateful to share this unique and spiritually uplifting moment with you all. Thank you very much indeed,” he said.

During his visit, the Earl unveiled a new plaque marking the 400th anniversary of his ancestor’s pilgrimage.

Mr MacDonnell visited Brideswell with his wife Aurora (Lady Antrim), their daughter Helena and his uncle Hector MacDonnell.

The event was organised by members of Brideswell Pattern Committee.