The R147 road curves around the church, suggesting that an ancient ecclesiastical enclosure has become fossilised in the street layout.

According to a legend recorded in An Leabhar Breac, the 7th-century Eucharistic hymn Sancti venite was first sung by angels at Dunshaughlin, after Secundinus had reconciled with his uncle Saint Patrick.

[1] The abbots of Dunshaughlin are recorded in the 9th century, beginning with Ruamnus (d. 801), and continuing to Scannal mac Fergil (murdered 886).

After the Norman invasion of Ireland Dunshaughlin became a seigniorial manor of Hugh de Lacy, Lord of Meath.

[3] The remains of the parish church, consisting of one pointed arch and two piers of an arcade, suggest that its nave had aisles.