Fathom Castle facts for kids

Fathom Castle, also known as Feedom Castle, was an old castle located in a place called Fathom (or Fidun) in County Armagh, near Newry in Northern Ireland. It was an important building many years ago.

The Story of Fathom Castle

Fathom Castle had a long and interesting history. It was once a strong base for the O'Neill family, who were powerful Irish leaders. During the Nine Years War, English forces took control of the castle. Later, in 1730, the castle was taken down to make way for a new canal.

Who Built Fathom Castle?

Before the O'Neills, there was an "old castle" at this spot. It was likely owned by Hugh DeLacy, an important Norman lord. Around the 1550s, Shane O'Neill built his own castle structure here. He used it as his main home.

Fathom Castle on Old Maps

You can find Fathom Castle shown on several old maps. One such map from 1602 is available online. It helps us see where the castle was located long ago. Link to page displaying map from 1602

Early Defenders of the Castle

Fathom Castle was located on the western side of Carlingford. This was an important area where King John's Castle was being built around 1180–1200. Fathom Castle was probably a fortified building. A knight serving DeLacy likely protected it.

Sir Robert Marmion's Role

There is a clear record of Sir Robert Marmion being with knights before King John in Dublin in 1210. It seems Sir Robert was the knight in charge of Fidun, or Fathom Castle. He came to Ireland with Strongbow and other Normans between 1169 and 1172. Later, other Marmion family members, like Sir Gilbert in 1290 and William in 1305, were also connected to "Fidun."

The Marmion Family Moves On

As the Gaelic people became stronger, the "Fidun" area was left behind. It was also called "the fort in the Forest." The Marmion family then moved to the nearby town of Carlingford. Carlingford was well-protected by soldiers from King John's Castle.

The Marmions were important in governing Carlingford until 1655. At that time, they lost their large land holdings. This happened because they were involved in a rebellion. They also lost a castle, which might be the building now known as 'The Mint'.