Athy is a town in
County Kildare. Founded in the 12th century, it derives its name from a second century battle which resulted in the death of Ae, the son of a
Munster Province chieftain. The name in Gaelic was "Ath Ae," or the "ford of Ae," which became anglicized to its present form. The
Grand Canal was extended in 1791, providing a water link to
Dublin. It is no longer used commercially, but provides a pleasant place for boating and walking.