Carrickfergus (Knockefergus) was given a grant of murage dated 1556.
This was in the form of:-
Wording
{XVI}-Instructions for Androwe Brereton and others joyned in commyssion with hym in Ulster, geven by the right honorable the lord Fitzwalter, lord deputie of the realme of Ireland and counsell of the same, at Kylmaynan, the xvith of September, anno 1556
....
{14.} Item: We will that the saide generall and commyssioners shall call the towne of Knockefergus to accompte for suche money and other thinges as they have receyved for the fortyfieng of their saide towne, and shall thereupon cause them to fortyfie the same with all convenyent spede.
Primary Sources
Gilbert, J.T. (ed), 1897,
The manuscripts of Charles Haliday, esq., of Dublin. Acts of the Privy council in Ireland, 1556-1571 (London) p. 11
online copy
Secondary Sources
Thomas, A., 1992, The Walled Towns of Ireland Vol. 2 (Irish Academic Press) p. 37-43
Comments
In 1556 the Irish privy council was instructed to get Carrickfergus to account with all speed for 'money and things received for fortifying the town' (Haliday MSS. 11) - presumably a murage grant then active (Thomas)
Most likely a one off grant of money and materials. Securing the town and port as a base must have been an essential part of the Tudor reconquest of Ireland
Record created by Philip Davis. This record created 29/03/2009. Last updated on 04/06/2012. First published online 5/01/2013.
