We planned to visit Carrick-on -Suir today as it is connected with the early life of one of my ancestors, James Hally. On the way, we took some small detours to visit some sites where there are good examples of High Crosses. We visited three sites : Killamery, Ahenny and Kilkieran.
Situated in an old graveyard near Kilkenny is the High Cross of Killamery one of the western Ossory group of crosses. There is a worn inscription on the base of the cross which is said to read as 'OR DO MAELSECHNAILL' a prayer for Maelsechnaill. Maelsechnaill was the High King of Ireland from 846 to 862.
In the churchyard at Ahenny, stands two excellent examples. Both are crowned by 'caps' or 'bishops mitres' and have intricate cable, spiral and fret patterns carved on them.
At Kilkieran are three interesting examples that date from the 9th century. The Plain Cross is capped; the West Cross is profusely ornamented; the Long Shaft Cross has very small arms on an elongated shaft.
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