The Barnewalls were an Anglo-Norman family with strong ties to English royalty. Alanus de Berneval, who fought alongside William the Conqueror in 1066, later participated in the conquest of Ireland in 1172. Hugh de Berneval, surviving a massacre in Bearhaven, was granted lands in Terenure and Drimnagh in 1215. The Bernevals resided in Drimnagh Castle for over 400 years.

 

The family, anglicized from De Berneval, owned land and castles across Ireland, including Crickstown and Trimblestown. They played roles in Irish history, serving in Parliament and military campaigns. The family crest, featuring powerful warrior symbols and the Latin inscription "I would rather die than dishonor my name," is displayed in the restored castle.

 

In the early years, Roger de Barneville received lands from William the Conqueror in 1078. The family's military service and achievements in the Holy War and against the Sultan Kilidge Anslan are noted. Jordan de Barneville pledged allegiance to Philip Augustus in 1204.

 

Members of the Barnewall family came to Ireland, winning possessions at Bearhaven, but were mostly slain in a conspiracy by the Irish. Hugh de Barneville, studying law in England, returned and received lands from King John in 1215.

 

The genealogy traces from Alanus de Berneval to Reginald de Berneval, highlighting their roles in Dublin Castle, royal service, marriages, and contributions to expeditions. Reginald de Berneval died in 1331, succeeded by Ulphram, whose descendants continued to reside at Drumenagh until the reign of James I, when the line ended with heiress Elizabeth Barneval selling the property in 1607 to Sir Adam Loftus of Rathfarnham.