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The Barry surname traces its origins back to the Norman invasion of Ireland in the 12th century. The name is one of the many brought to the country by Anglo-Norman settlers. Etymology and Meaning The Barry name is derived from the Norman personal name “de Barra,” which is a patronymic term meaning “spear” or “sharp.” The name is...
Thank to DeOldify/MyHeritage.com for providing the colour to these old photos.
The name Clifden means ‘An Clochán’ in Irish, or ‘Stepping Stones’. The town was founded at the start of the 19th century by John D’arcy (1785-1839) who lived in Clifden Castle (now in ruins). He inherited the estate when it was mostly used for fishing and farming. In 1820, a failed potato crop caused suffering and D’arcy...
Kilkee, Co. Clare began as a small fishing village which gained popularity amongst the wealthy in Limerick who were unable to travel around Europe due to the Napoleonic Wars. Many of them visited Kilkee for its natural amenities and bathing areas. In the 1820s a paddle steamer service commenced from Limerick to Kilrush, which provided easier access to the village for...
Learn more about the construction of the Antrim Coast Road by William Bald, and the famous Black Arch near Larne.
Learn more about the history of Capel Street and its builder Sir Humphrey Jervis.
The Glendenning monument was erected in 1845 to commemorate the memory of George Glendenning (1770-1843), a local land agent and wealthy banker. It’s said the statue was erected not for the esteemed manner of his memory, but because he left a large sum of money in his will to have it erected. The monument was known locally as ‘Big George’ and stood...
In the lead up to World War 2, the Irish Defense Forces set up a series of lookout posts called the ‘Coast Watching Service’. 83 of these posts were placed along the coast every 5-15 miles and local volunteers called Coastwatchers kept an eye out. Coast Watchers used work in 8-12 hour shifts, in pairs. One person would man the telephone and the other...
The Ramelton Bottling Stores were built around 1830 and extended over the years to the north along the quay. In the 18th and 19th century, Ramelton was a prosperous port with trade extending to Great Britain, North America, Norway and the Caribbean. There are accounts of ships from the Caribbean sailing up Lough Swilly, anchoring at Ramelton and unloading their...
Tullymore Lighthouse dates back to 1825 when the traders and merchants in Killybegs asked the Ballast Board for a navigation light on St. John’s Point to help ships navigate their way to safe harbour. After some delays, the approval was given in 1829 to start construction. George Halpin Sr. was tasked with the design and building of the lighthouse. He is...