1st January 1837
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A snapshot of pre-famine local history, as described by Samuel Lewis in the "Topographical Dictionary of Ireland" 1837.

BALLYCASTLE, a village, in the parish of DUNFEENY, barony of TYRAWLEY, county of MAYO, and province of CONNAUGHT, 15 miles (N. W.) from Ballina: the population is returned with the parish.

This place is situated on the north-west coast, and commands a fine view of Downpatrick Head: the beach affords excellent accommodation for sea-bathing, and by the outlay of a little capital it might be made a delightful watering-place.

Several improvements have already been made; many new houses have been built, a market place is in course of erection, and a new line of road is now being constructed through the mountains to Belmullet, which will materially add to the advantages of the place.

Petty sessions are held every Wednesday; it is a constabulary and chief revenue-police station, and has six fairs in the year, and a penny post to Killala.

See also DOONFEENY

SOURCE: A Topographical Dictionary of Ireland by Samuel Lewis (pub 1837)

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