There was a very holy Parish Priest in Mullinavat at the time my Great Uncle lived. The Priest's name was Rev. Fr. Neary. He helped the Farmer's during the time of the Land Wars. His Funeral was five miles long and was the largest ever seen in the County. He is buried in Mullinavat. Edmond Anderson wrote the following poem in praise of him:-
Father Neary
I
Old Ireland is mourning since on that cruel day.
The Soul of Father Nearly into Heaven passed away.
Kilmacow is in grief now, Ballyhale and Mullinavat.
Are sunk in grief and anguish for the loss of Father Pat
II
His contenance was heavenly, when lying upon his bed.
No one would imaging Fr. Nearly, he was dead.
(leanann ar an chéad leathanach eile)
