Definition
Drumbar is a townland situated in the civil parish of Kinawley, within the barony of Tullyhaw, County Cavan, Ireland.
Overview
Covering 309 statute acres, Drumbar lies on the western side of Kinawley and is bounded by the townlands of Drumbrughas, Greaghnafine, Aghakinnigh, Cullion, Newtown, Tircahan, Drumod Glebe, Gortlaunaght, Gortnaderrylea, Tonyquin, and Drumersee. The terrain includes a hill rising to 486 feet, several mountain streams, forestry plantations, dug wells and spring wells. Minor public roads and rural lanes provide access across the townland.
Etymology / Origin
The name derives from the Irish Droim Bairr, meaning “ridge of the summit”.
Characteristics
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Geography – The townland’s chief natural features are its ridge‑top hill, watercourses, and planted woodlands. Its landscape has historically supported agriculture and small‑scale settlement.
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History – In medieval times the area formed part of a ballybetagh owned by the McGovern clan, known variously as Aghycloony, Aghcloone, Nacloone, Naclone or Noclone (from Irish Áth Chluain, “ford of the meadow”). Following the Plantation of Ulster, a 1615 grant by King James VI/I conveyed the parcel to Sir George Graeme and Sir Richard Graeme as part of the Manor of Greame. The Grahams participated in the 1641 Irish Rebellion; their lands were later confiscated under the 1652 Act for the Settlement of Ireland. Subsequent records list proprietors such as Thomas Worshipp and tenants including Edmond Magwire.
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Demography – Census data show a decline in population from 146 inhabitants (1841) to 36 (1891). The 1901 and 1911 censuses recorded ten and eleven families, respectively.
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Antiquities – An earthen ringfort (circa 50 m internal diameter) is recorded in the Archaeological Inventory of County Cavan (Site No. 558). Folklore associated with the fort appears in the 1938 Dúchas collection.
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Education – In the early 19th century, a hedge‑school operated in Drumbar under teacher Pat McHugh, serving both Catholic and Church of Ireland pupils. The school was later referenced as Tircahan National School, although its physical location lay within Drumbar.
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Notable persons – Thomas McGovern, the second Roman Catholic Bishop of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, originated from Drumbar.
Related Topics
- Kinawley (civil parish and village)
- Tullyhaw (historical barony)
- Townlands of County Cavan
- McGovern clan
- Plantation of Ulster
- Irish ringforts
- Hedge schools in 19th‑century Ireland