AUGHNISH

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

"AUGHNISH, a parish in the barony of Kilmacrenan, in the county of Donegal, province of Ulster, Ireland, 3 miles to the N. of Letterkenny. It is situated on the western shore of Lough Swilly, and comprises part of the market town of Rathmelton or Ramelton. The river Lannon flows near the parish on the west. The soil is fertile, and there is a small tract of bog. The population are employed in the linen manufacture, the corn and flour trade, and the bleaching grounds. The living is a rectory, part of the union of Tullyaughnish, in the diocese of Derry and Raphoe. The church is at Ramelton. The Roman Catholics, Presbyterians, and Wesleyans have places of worship here. In the vicinity are the ruins of Killydonnell Abbey. The principal residences are Fort Stewart, seat of Sir J. Stewart, Bart., and Shellfield. There are several schools. Fairs are held on the 17th of July, and on the Tuesday after the 20th of May and 11th of December."

"RATHMELTON, (or Ramelton), a post and market town, in the parish of Aughnish, barony of Kilmacrenan, county Donegal, province of Ulster, Ireland, 19 miles N.N.W. of Lifford, and 123 from Dublin. It is situated on the river Lennan, at the embouchure of that stream into Lough Swilly. The town, which was founded by Sir William Stewart, under patent of James I., consists of 3 principal streets, and contains the parish church, and meetinghouses for Presbyterians and Methodists. Also a chief police station, fever hospital, and a dispensary, which last is within the Milford poor-law union. Petty sessions are held fortnightly. The manufacture of linen is extensively carried on, and there are bleaching grounds, a brewery, and large corn-mills. Small vessels are able to approach the town by way of the river. Fort Stewart and Stewart Castle are the neighbouring seats. Salmon fishing is carried on, and pearls of some value are occasionally found in the river bed. Market days are Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday. Fairs are held on the Tuesdays following 20th May, 15th November, and 11th December.

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