Above Image: Roadside entry gates.
Above Image: The track to the well.
Above Image: The well surround.
Above Image: The well and its stepping stones.
Above Image: Rules for intentions.
This ancient well formerly attributed to St. Brigid is now locally known as Fr. Moore's well. it is situated off the road between Kildare and Milltown on the Curragh in County Kildare.
This oft visited site has significance with the locals to Fr John Moore (1229-1826) who was appointed curate to the local village of Allen in 1803. Over the subsequent years he dedicated his life to healing and this young priest certainly appeared to have some healing powers of healing as many anecdotal tales of cures have attested down the generations. He often blessed the waters of this well which was formerly known as The Black Well and ushered people to seek a cure for their ailments from it's waters.. Born in Rathbride, Fr. Moore was celebrated in 1952 by its residents by the naming of the well after him. Also there was the construction of a decorative surround to the well designed by Patrick McCormack. Fr Moore himself is buried in the churchyard in nearby Allen.
When we visited on an Autumn evening it was very much deserted and so we had a good look around the site noting the rag tree which can also be found at many other wells.
The modern well surround is circular and has three stepping stones within it so the visitor can partake in a particular ritual as displayed on a sign within the walls. To avail of the healing powers it suggests the following:
First: Say the rosary of the Virgin Mary.
Second: Cross the stepping stones from North to South and
pray for Fr. Moore and his parents. Pray for your
own intentions and bathe your ailment (if any) with water
from the well.
Third: Say three Hail Mary's in honour of the purification
of the Blessed Virgin.
One visit is then complete.
You should make three visits for your intention. These are done usually on Fridays or Sundays and should include confession and Holy Communion.
The well is situated in a very peaceful spot and certainly has a calming effect upon the visitor.
To find the well take the R415 heading North from Kildare Town towards Milltown. Drive approx. 5KM until you see a small lay-by on your right with a gateway that has white pillars and blue capstones. There is a sign here pointing to the well. You can park safely in the lay-by outside the gates. Use the small pedestrian gate on the right for entry and simply walk up the short track to the well.
GPS: 53.19271, -6.87412
