Who was the headless horseman?

Headless horseman witnessed at Tankardstown

The Spirits of Meath Halloween Festival takes place around the county from October 18th to November 2nd 2013.

Meath Tourism launched the festival at Tankardstown House in the early hours of Friday 13th September. It was a grisly experience and it’s a Friday the 13th that will haunt all of those present for life! During the launch one of those present noticed a dark figure moving up the tree lined avenue on the grounds of Tankardstown. There was an uneasy feeling in the air as the sound of a galloping horse came closer. As the ground began to rumble the figure came into view through the early morning mist. The horse came to an abrupt halt and let out a shrill neigh. Just then the onlookers realised the rider was headless but no sooner had they realised what they had laid eyes on than the headless horseman vanished again in the morning haze.

Who was this headless horseman and have you seen him?

One of those present at the launch shared the story of Tiernán O’Rourke. He ruled the kingdom of Bréifne during the 12th century. He was most noted for an inability to remain loyal to his allies. Indeed his notoriously treacherous ways may have aided his demise. Hugh de Lacy, the first Lord of Meath, arranged a meeting with O’Rourke at Tlachtga (Hill of Ward), near Athboy. The negotiations ended in a quarrel. O’ Rourke, who attempted to kill de Lacy, was beheaded by a knight named Griffin Fitzwilliam. Locals claim to have seen a headless horseman in and around the Hill of Ward and some even claim that it is the ghost of Tiernán O’Rourke. He’s still galloping around Meath in the hope of avenging his death against Hugh de Lacy!

Perhaps what was witnessed at the Spirits of Meath Festival launch is the Ghost of Tiernán O’Rourke or maybe it’s another headless horseman. One thing is for sure everybody should be on the lookout for a headless horseman as we approach Halloween this year.

For more information on the festival check out www.spiritsofmeath.ie. The website provides information on the full list of spine tingling events taking place all across the Meath. It’s Ireland’s biggest and most terrifying Halloween Festival, equal measures delighting and frightening! From House of Horrors to Halloween Fun; from Friendly Witches to Spooks & Spells; from Crafty Witches to Creep Crazy Cuisine; from Fancy Dress to Candlelit Tours; from Pumpkin Carving to Halloween Trick or Treat days – there is something for everyone in Meath this Halloween with ‘shockingly’ good accommodation offers and even some free events.