There are 35 civil parishes in the barony (see map). They are: Blackrath, Blanchvilleskill, Clara, Columbkille, Dunbell, Dungarvan, Famma, Gowran, Graiguenamanagh, Grangesilvia, Inistioge, Jerpointabbey, Jerpointwest, Kilderry, Kilfane, Kilkieran, Killarney, Kilmacahill, Kilmadum, Mothell, Pleberstown, Powerstown, Rathcoole, Shankill, St. John's, St. Martin's, St. Maul's, Thomastown, Tiscoffin, Treadingstown, Tullaherin, Ullard, Wells, and Woolengrange.[9] Three of which are split between the Barony of Gowran and the Baronies of Fassadinin and Ida (Mothell, Kilmadum and Inistioge). Most of the eastern boundary of the barony of Gowran is formed by the River Barrow.
History
The barony was part of the territory of the historic kingdom of Osraige (Ossory). That kingdom was almost co-terminus with the still extant Catholic diocese of Ossory . In the Church of Ireland, the diocese has been merged into the diocese of Cashel and Ossory. Gowran is currently administered by Kilkenny County Council.[2]
Gowran was recorded in the Down Survey (1656),[10] and on Griffith's Valuation (1864).[11] Parts of the barony were in the Poor law unions of Castlecomer, Kilkenny, and Thomastown.[7]
Territory of O'Carroll and O'Dunphy.[12] Given to Theobald Fitzwalter (Butler ).[12] Dobbyn family based there in the 15th century.[12] Richard FitzPatrick was created Lord Gowran in 1715, and his son was created Earl of Upper Ossory in 1751. Both titles became extinct in 1818.
^Lewis, Samuel (1837). "Kilfane (Gowran)". A Topographical Dictionary of Ireland. Kilfane, a parish, in the barony of Gowran [..] Here are some remains of the ancient church, and of Kilbline and Ballynaboola castles
References
Fiontar (2008). "Placenames Database of Ireland". logainm.ie. Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs of the Government of Ireland.