KILLYBEGS

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

"KILLYBEGS, a parish, seaport, post, and market town, in the baronies of Boylagh and Bannagh, county Donegal, province of Ulster, Ireland. The parish, which contains the town of its own name, is about 6 miles long by 4 broad, and lies between the bays of Mac Swyne and Fintragh. The surface rises from the coast into the lofty mountains of Bannagh; Crownarad is the most conspicuous summit, attaining an altitude of 1,619 feet. The town, once a parliamentary borough, is situated at the head of the harbour which bears its name, 157 miles N.W. of Dublin, and 9 from Ardra. It is not a commodiously built town, and though occupying an excellent position, carries on but an insignificant trade. The bay is one of the finest in this part of Ireland, with fixed lights at St. John's Point and at Rotten Island. Some of the inhabitants are employed in the fisheries. Its exports are farm produce, and imports, timber, coal, and calm. Its charter of incorporation was granted to Roger Jones in the reign of James I., before which time it was called Calebegg, and sent two members to the Irish parliament. The corporation has long since become extinct. There are police and coastguard stations, and a dispensary within the Glenties Poor-law Union. Petty sessions are held in the town. The living is a rectory and vicarage in the diocese of Raphoe, value £465, in the patronage of the bishop. The church was erected by aid of a loan from the late Board of First Fruits. The Roman Catholic chapel is united to that of Killaghtee. There are a Sunday and about half-a-dozen day schools. Fintragh is a noticeable seat. Tuesday is market day. Fairs are held on the 15th January, 20th April, 6th May, 21st June, 12th August, 15th September, 12th November."

"ARDARA, a village in the parish of Killybegs, barony of Bannagh in the county of Donegal, province of Ulster, Ireland, 17 miles to the N.W. of Donegal. It is situated at the head of Loughros More Bay, into which the river Oanea here falls. The living is a perpetual curacy in the diocese of Derry and Raphoe, value £32, in the patronage of the rectors of Killybegs and Inniskiel. Here is a police station, and petty sessions are held occasionally. A fair is held on the 1st November."

"CALHANCE, a hamlet in the parish of Killybegs, and barony of Bannagh, in the county of Donegal, province of Ulster, Ireland, not far from Killybegs."

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