School: Rockfield (roll number 15378)

Location:
Rockfield, Co. Sligo
Teacher:
Caoimhín Ó Duibhín

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An Old Irish Tale

Archival Reference

The Schools’ Collection, Volume 0174, Page 262

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Just a hundred years before Saint Patrick brought the Faith to Ireland, a good king named Fiacha reigned at Tara. He was attached by raiders, who hoped to seize the kingdom. In those days kings used to seek advice from wise men called druids. King Fiacha asked counsel of a druids, who answered," You have a hard choice If you win, you will still be king, but your son wille lose the kingship If you are defeated, however, you son and your children's children will be kings of Eire. The king did not hesitate. I choose defeat and death," se said. So it came to pass. He fought and was beaten and slain, but his death roused the anger of the people. The dead king's subjects rose in fury and drove the raiders out. Fiacha's son became king Fiacha's by giving up his own life saved the kingship of Ireland for his race.

Informant
Mrs Farry
Gender
female
Address
Knockadoo, Co. Sligo
Language
English