Balrath Demesne

[2] In Irish, Balrath translates to bal for "home" and ráth for the "enclosing bank" of a ringfort, which is an ancient dwelling structure(s) found in great numbers across Ireland.

From Lewis's Topographical Dictionary of Ireland, 1837: BURRY, a parish, in the barony of UPPER-KELLS, county of MEATH, and province of LEINSTER, 1¾ mile (S.W.)

This parish is situated on the road from Mullingar to Kells and Drogheda, and comprises 3339 statute acres, as applotted under the tithe act.

The land, which is of great fertility, is almost equally divided between tillage and pasture, and the system of agriculture is in a highly improved state.

Balrath, the seat of C. A. Nicholson, Esq., is a handsome residence, pleasantly situated in an extensive and well-wooded demesne, with a park well stocked with deer, and in which are some remains of the old church, with a burial-ground attached.

[7]Bury was a Catholic chapel-at-ease to Kells (a small church to make it easier for parishioners to attend services) on a slight rise on a level landscape, as noted in 1622 (Ussher's visitation).

"[8] In 1877, a "license for public worship" was approved for "an iron church" erected by the "late John Nicholson" at Balrath Burry.