According to my info the song was written by Denny Lane (1818-95)from Cork and first published in the "Nation" on 15 February 1845. It was then called "Lament of the Irish Maiden: A Brigade Ballad", shortened to "Carrigdhoun". When Thomas Davis, the "Nation's" editor, saw it he is said to have asked "Why don't you write more songs"?

Lane was a Young Irelander and was jailed at the time of the 1848 Revolt. Later he became a successful businessman.