A large group of over one hundred local historians from theFederation of Ulster Local Studies and the Federation of Local History Societies enjoyed a memorable outing to Banbridge and district including the Bronte country. This event was part of the urban-experience project involving exchange visits between the two federations north and south. Federation members from the south travelled to meet up with their colleagues in Ulster at the impressive F.E. McWilliam Gallery on the outskirts of the town. F.E. McWilliam who was a native of the town became a renowned surrealist sculptor. Adrian Howlett, Chairman of the Banbridge Historical Society and committee member Doreen McBride welcomed the visitors on their arrival and presented them with a complementary booked designed by Jason Diamond of the F.E. McWilliam Gallery which outlined the history of Banbridge and the surrounding area. After mixing together in two buses the merry band set out on the first leg of their visit with a morning tour. Jason Diamond acted as guide on one bus, and Doreen McBride on the other. Travelling through Banbridge the visitors were shown local landmarks such as the Downshire Hotel, the Market House, the Downshire Bridge, the Cut and the statue of Captain F.R.M. Crozier, the polar explorer credited with the discovery of the North-West passage. The first stop was the Moyallon Quaker Meeting House near Gilford. It proved to be a most tranquil, peaceful and quiet place, chosen originally for it's fertile surroundings and proximity to the Upper Bann. It was interesting to hear the history of Quaker families like the Christies, the Wakefields and the Richardsons and how they related to the community in which they lived. The next stop was St. John's R.C. Church in Gilford. A small but beautiful building ornately decorated inside. It had, however, a very very special features that would delight any visitor. It boasts two fine Harry Clarke windows on both side walls adjajcent to the altar. They provided a sparkling vista in the summer sunlight. During the morning journey many interesting landmarks were pointed out. There were many reminders of the industrial past associated with the are - the linen trade. By 1772 it had become the principal linen producing area in Ireland with a total of twenty-six bleaching greens along the Bann. Many fine houses were seen, all associated with the local Linen Barons of the time including Milltown House, Banford House, Mount Pleasant and Gilford Castle built for Benjamen Dickson of Gilford Mills. There are many fine mills in the area but none as impressive as Gilford Mills, still resplendint in her glory with her beautiful red brick and towering chimney. One of the largest flax spinning factories in Ireland this threadworks was once the largest undertaking on the Upper Bann.
After the morning's exertions an excellent dinner was provide at the Belmont Hotel accompanied by some excellent service. The afternoon saw the group on the road again to visit the Bronte Interprative Centre at Drumballyroney. It was quite a sight to see the church, graveyard and little school sitting so picturesquely amid the backdrop of the Mourne Mountains. Packed into the little church was a compelling presentation of the Bronte family and its Irish connections. Following this people were allowed time to wander the quaint little graveyard and the old school-house. The journey back to Banbridge was along pleasant country roads with wonderful views of the green rolling Drumlin country. This, with the Mourne Mountains in the distance, was something special for everyone.
The final call was to banbridge Town Hall where the visitors were treated to a civic reception by Cllr. Ian Burns of Banbridge Town Council at the Council Chambers. A Wonderful array of refreshments were provided and a warm welcome was extended to the group by Cllr. Burns. This was very much appreciated by the group and special thanks were extended to Cllr. Burns. Adrian Howlett of Banbridge Historical Society, Larry Breen, FLHS and Fr. Sean O'Doherty, President of the FLHS all extended a special word of thanks to the main organisers, Doreen McBride and Jason Diamond for all their hard work.
The day ended with the reading of an appropriate little poem penned on the day by Mae Leonard from Naas, County Kildare, the poem is called "Historical Friends.
Take my hand
And bide a while
And look into my Eyes
And smile
History may have
Torn us apart
But in Banbridge
Is where it brings
Us back
So together, friend
I shake your hand
And say,
May we forever
Remain this way
Friends through History.
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