Tobar Bhaighdéan, perhaps Tobar Ingheán Baoith, South Commons, Killinaboy

Townland: South Commons, Killinaboy

Description of Holy Well and Landscape Setting

This holy well is located east of Inneenboy Holy Well, in the South Commons. The well is on a slightly raised, ivy-clad plinth, within a shaded spot. It has a clearly defined opening and water was present at the time of the research visit, suggesting an active spring. It is marked by an elegantly cut stone crucifix, measuring about 30 cm high.

Saint and Feast Day Associated with Holy Well

This may be one of several wells in the area dedicated to Inneenboy. The townland of Killinaboy was once home to the Cinéal Baoith clan and Inneenboy was a royal member of this clan. Her feast day is 29th September.
However, it is more likely that this holy well is dedicated Saint Baighdeán. Saint Baighdeán is associated with the area and there is another holy well dedicated to her at Corofin, near Lough Tedaun. Baighdéan is certainly a less well known saint in the area, but does have local connections. This well is identified as ‘Tober Boydan’ on the 1842 Ordnance Survey map.
Some votive offerings were present at the well at the time of the research visit. 

Clare County Library

Clare County Library 2

Jones, C, Walsh, P & Ó Cearbhaill, P 1996, ‘Recent Discoveries on Roughaun Hill’, The Journal of the Royal Society of Antiquaries of Ireland, vol. 126, pp. 86-107

Record of Monuments and Places Number

RMP CL017-060-