Dominick Duff Lynch
Dominick Duff Lynch played a central role in obtaining the charter of 1484 and collegiate status for St Nicholas' Church. He served as mayor of Galway in 1486 and was a considerably important patron of St Nicholas', building the south aisle of the church which extended it considerably.
The south porch was also built around this time. Although it is not known who built it, it may well have been Dominick Duff. Of particular interest is the heavy rib vaulting to the interior of the porch. The doorway is framed by a patterned hood moulding with decorative frieze and is dated to the sixteenth century.
Dominick Duff Lynch has also been credited with commencing the construction of the church tower which may have been completed by his son Stephen. A spire was added in 1683 and its peal of bells date from 1590 to 1891.
Dominick Duff Lynch also founded the College House or residence for the clergy It is believed to have been situated opposite the west door of the church, where the west gate now stands and is said to have stood for three hundred years. In his will, Dominick Duff Lynch also bequeath ‘to the college one silver cup weight eight ounces’ . The College House building was demolished in 1836, after falling into disrepair.