Tobar Phártaláin is a holy well located in the townland of Ceann Tuaithe (Toehead). Pártalán was supposed to have been blind but when he went to this well his sight was restored.
Etymology
Tobar Phártaláin would be interpreted as (the) Well (of) Pártalán. Sometimes Pártalán is given as the Irish equivalent of the apostle Nathanael/Bartholomew but there is no known connection between the local Pártalán and the apostle.
Pattern Day
May 14th was the traditional pattern day for this holy well.
Description
It seems the pattern finished in the later part of the 19th century and after that, it was used as a source of drinking water by residents in the twin hamlets of Íochtar Bhaile and Uachtar Bhaile. It was also used by fishermen who accessed it via steps that led up from Cuasín a' Tobair just below the well.
In the Mealagh Valley there is another Tobar Phártaláin which was also said to have a fish in it. It is not known if this well it is associated with the same saint or is a different Pártalán.
For the first time in many years, the well is once again accessible to locals and visitors as the undergrowth has been cleared away and rough pathway opened up. If visiting the well (which is about 200 metres from the road), please take great care not to damage fences on the surrounding farmland.
The site of Tobar Phártaláin
Tobar Phartaláin (and Colm Sexton)
Further Reading
- Castlehaven & Myross History Society Journal Vol. 3 - 2022 Tobar Phartaláin Naomhtha, Ceann Tuaithe by Michael Sexton
- The Schools’ Collection, Volume 0398, Page 111 - Toibreacha Beannaithe by Risteárd Ó Motharua >
- The Schools’ Collection, Volume 0282, Page 507 - Mealagh Valley Tober Pártaláin by Muircheartach Ó Cróinín >
