The convent of Innis-Sherkin stands on an island in the sea at the entrance of Baltimore harbour. The O'Driscolls, who have a castle close beside, were its founders.43 Its position in the open sea was of advantage in many ways, but, at the same time, most dangerous. The supply of fish and other products of the ocean were abundant. Indeed, the inmates could cast the line while walking in the garden, and catch fish in large numbers. On the other hand, it lay open to the ravages of pirates and marauders of all sorts. In fact, the first object of such gentry was the capture of this island, for the anchorage of Baltimore afforded them small security while an enemy occupied Innis-Sherkin. This exposed position of the convent led finally to its destruction.
On one occasion certain merchants from the city of Waterford entered the port, and were detained there for some time by contrary winds. The O'Driscoll was absent, and the garrison of the Castle, believing them to be pirates, or pretending to believe so, that they might have a pretext for plunder, attacked them and carried off some of their goods. They then allowed them to depart with their ships and what remained of their property. No sooner had the merchants returned to Waterford than the citizens armed a
Since that time the convent has remained a ruin, and was never afterwards occupied by the friars. It is the common belief of the people of Waterford that none of those who took part in this act of sacrilege ever prospered in their undertakings, and that they either died without children or left them paupers.44