ERRIGAL

In 1868, the parish of Errigal contained the following places:

"ERRIGAL, a parish in the barony of Coleraine, county Londonderry, province of Ulster, Ireland, 5 miles N.W. of Kilreagh. It contains Garvagh, its post town. It is situated clear the river Bann on the Agivey, a tributary to that river. The surface is mountainous and boggy. In 589 St. Columb founded a monastery here, which was destroyed by the Danes in the 9th century. Many of the inhabitants are weavers. The living is a rectory in the diocese of Derry, value £461, in the patronage of the bishop. The church was built in 1697. There are two Roman Catholic chapels, two Presbyterian meeting-houses, and ten day schools, some of which are assisted by the National Board. There are several fine seats, the principal of which is Garvagh, the residence of Lord Garvagh."

"GARVAGH, a post and market town in the parish of Errigal, barony of Coleraine, county Londonderry, province of Ulster, Ireland, 23 miles E. of Londonderry, and 131 from Dublin. It stands on one of the head waters of the river Agivey, near the road from Armagh to Coleraine. The town has an appearance of neatness and prosperity. It contains the parish church, a Roman Catholic chapel, two Presbyterian meeting-houses, a Secession church, a National and two other schools. Garvagh dispensary is within the Coleraine Poor-law Union. Petty sessions are held here. In 1641 the town was burnt and sacked by Sir Phelim O'Nial. Garvagh gives title of baron to the Cannings, it having been granted to a relative of the great statesman in the 17th century, and to which family the town is indebted for its prosperity. Friday is market day, and fairs are held on the first Friday in every month."

[Transcribed from The National Gazetteer of Great Britain and Ireland 1868]
by Colin Hinson ©2018