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John
Coyne in Glasgow writes.
John used to visit "Camp"
(Balbriggan) and set up tent near the martello tower. Anybody remember
this. Click on the thumbnail to read more about John Coyne.
21.11.05 |
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Fingal
fair “Marketplace ’05”
We have been asked
to remind people that the above fair is taking place this thursday
from 5pm to 9pm in the Grand Hotel Malahide. Click on the thumbnail
for more details. |
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A
walk down by the beach to the Lowther Lodge of present day.
Brian Howley had a walk
down memory lane recently down by the Delvin bridge to the beach
where he and his family visited most days during the long hot summers
of the 70’s.
There now lies the remains of the building known as Lowther Lodge
about which Balbriggan Historical Society had a very interesting
talk earlier in the year. What has been generating even more interest
is the fact that this building now looks onto what is intended to
become Bremore Port! Some of Brian’s photos are taken through
the porthole windows onto the beach and others are taken inside
the walls and show some of the features of this extraordinary house.
None of the bones that used to lie just inside the walls are there
anymore, long since cleared away!!
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Liam
O'Carroll,
A request was made for a picture of Liam O'Carroll's
shop in Bridge St. and our R & D dept. have just found this
image of Liam & Jody Brady standing outside the shop on St Patrick's
day 1983. 21.11.05 |
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Caith
McEnaney Fairley.
We
received this email from Caith recently "I grew up in Clonard
street and it was facinating to see the house I grew up in was partially
burned during the Sack of Balbriggan. Ours was the old Costello
House. I now live in California with my husband George..."
If anyone knows Caith and would like to read more, click the HERE
button. |
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1983,
was a very good year!
We are really spoiling you today, seeing
as it's a Thursday? 1983 is today's year with photos of BMX racing
where Sonopress is now, Corner of Drogheda Street & Station
Street to name but two. Click on thumbnail to see other photos of
Balbriggan from this year.17.11.05
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Stephen
Roche in Balbriggan.
Here's a nice 'scoop' for B.net, and it's Stephen
Roche winning his last race as an amateur and it's an old trick
question as most people say his last race prior to turning professional
was the Ras or Milk Race. In fact it was a Cyclo-cross at Balbriggan
in 1983 and it comes courtesy of B/C collection. 17.11.05
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Lowtherstone
House Near Delvin Bridge.
Hear's a photo from about 1928, It's Lowertherstown
house, which is just before you come to the mouth of the River Delvin
if you're walking up the beach. Its now a ruin which we will photograph
shortly and bring you. 17.11.05 |
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Balbriggan.net
Tops with Yahoo.
Not only is Balbriggan.net listed by Google as
No. 1 Web site on Balbriggan, it's also listed top of the table
by Yahoo UK & Irl, Yahoo.fr(France) Yahoo.es(Spain) and every
other Yahoo you can think of. It's all down to brilliant photos
by Benton & Curtis, Publicity by Martin Fanning, Specialist
photos by Brian Howley, 1950's Balbriggan by Roger Turner and our
Technical Dept. headed by Tony. Thank you for making us number 1.
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Competition
Winner is Darragh McLeer from Balbriggan
Well done Darragh on winning € 50.00. We
asked a respectable member of the public to act as independent observer.
Jim Morrison saw all 29 pieces of paper, numbered 1 to 29 and he
picked out number 9. So Darragh, contact us when you can. We thought
we would have more entries, judging by the number of hits every
day, maybe another competition in the coming weeks. Click on the
thumbnail to see photos. 16.11.05 |
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Matilda
Richardson and Caroline Smith.
Here is another photo give to us by Delores Creighton
and her family in England. In this photo we see 3 ladies enjoying
the sun on the beach. Caroline Smith, Gerry and Matilda Richardson
are those in question. More from the Delores Creighton over the
coming days. 15.11.05 |
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Steam
Lorry Crash in Balbriggan.
On the 11th of this month, we brought you a photo
of 3 workmen with the Cairnes Steam Lorry in the background. In
these photos, we show the same lorry, crashed into the bridge opposite
where the Central Pub is now. We think it's a Sentinel steam Lorry
and if anyone out there has any information on the Lorry or Cairnes
Ale, please do contact us. 15.11.05 |
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Liam
O'Carrols Butchers.
We had an email through the guest book from a
Megan O'Carroll saying "My grandad used to own the O'CARROLL'S
BUTCHERS.If anyone has any pictures of it i would like to see them".
As usual. Mr Benton and Mr Curtis went looking through their collection
and came up with this. Is there anything they don't have? We hope
you enjoy, Megan. Click on thumbnail to enlarge.
13.11.05 |
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Ring
Commons School Photo c1918.
Following on from an email sent by Margaret Cornick
in Canada, our research Dept, Jack & Joe, went delving into
the archives and came up with this photo. Margaret wrote "
ask anyone you know for information on Students at Ring Commons
School from about 1910 to 1920 when my mother would have attended.".
Well, here you are margaret, we hope you enjoy.
11.11.05 |
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Balbriggan
Steam-Truck.
When Jack Benton was telling was telling one of
our I. T. guys about the Steam Truck, he thought he was kidding.
But no, it's true. It was like a train, it burnt coal to boil the
water with the steam providing the power to turn the wheels. Apparently
it carried fizzy soft drinks between Drogheda and Dublin. If we
get more info on it, we'll let you know. As usual, click on thumbnail.11.11.05
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Balbriggan
Fire Brigade.
What a photo. Circa 1940 of the Fire Brigade in
Balbriggan taken on Drogheda St. right where the new development
is going on beside "SuperValue". Isn't it great someone
took this photo, a moment in time, captured forever and with the
advent of the internet, there to share with the millions, ok, the
hundreds. Click on thumbnail to enlarge. 11.11.05
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Sack
of Balbriggan Photos.
While trawling through the vast internet, we came
across 2 photos of the burning of Balbriggan(The Sack of Balbriggan).
On Sept. 20th 1920, Black and Tans, stationed at Gormanston Camp,
set fire to numerous houses and businesses in the town in retaliation
for the murder of one of their men who was drinking in John D's.
Click on the thumbnail. 10.11.05 |
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1982
Balrothery Lads & Teddy Guildea.
Two photos here, first is Teddy Guildea during
the breakaway festival in 1983 and the second is 4 lads outside
McCormacks in Balrothery in 1982, the two lads in front look like
twins but we are not sure, so if anyone can put names to this
photo please do contact us at info@balbriggan.net.
Let us know if you have any photos with a local connection, we'll
scan, repair, print you you a free copy and return the original
to you. Click on thumbnail to enlarge. Enjoy. 10.11.05 |
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On
the rocks!......
Here is a most unusual photo give to us by our
friends Benton & Curtis. It's of a mobile home been pulled
by a rig that got stuck on the rocks at Blackrock. Apparently
it was stolen and judging by the position of it, he must have
been traveling at some speed. The year was 1984. Click on thumbnail
to view.10.11.05 |
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Memories
of Balbriggan in the 50's...Part 11: Things to do, Places to see...
Our Roger has written another account of 1950's
Balbriggan and in this months part Roger tells of his magical train
trips to Dublin."The waitress brings the soup
and places it down in front of me. I stick me spoon in to try it
and, and ouch! Too hot! 'Mum. This soup is too hot.' Now we have
a saying in Sheffield when something is too hot: 'Well, waft it
with your cap,' Dad tells me, jokingly. So without further ado,
little Roger fishes his school cap from his jacket, hanging on the
back of his chair, and proceeds to waft it over the steaming soup,
much to the disgust of onlookers." Click on thumbnail
to read. 06.11.05
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Photographic
Exhibition.
Albert Galbraith, originally from North Strand,
now living in Balbriggan supplied us with two photos, one with his
wife and another in the Boxing ring. Albert is a very skilled artist
who had many paintings on display during the festival. Also looking
for a mention on B.net is Patrick Marry and his son. We have other
photos taken at the exhibition. As usual, click on thumbnail to
view. 06.11.05 |
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Paddy
Creighton outside Tolans.
Here is a delightful photo given to us by
Delores Creighton. It shows her father-in-law, Paddy, outside Tolans
shop(Careys Supermarket) on Hampton Street. Delores has given us
over a dozen photos which we will be bringing you over the coming
weeks. Click on the thumbnail to enlarge.
05.11.05
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ITV
Now available in Ireland on SKY.
ITV1(UTV) ITV2, 3, and 4 are now available
in Ireland for those with a SKY satellite receiver. Hopefully, Channel
4 will also follow suit when we will be able to take down our aerials.
Our technical department have gone to some trouble to make it as
easy possible to receive these stations. Click on the thumbnail
to see how easy it is. |
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Halloween
in Balbriggan.....Fireworks galore.
One our team members, Tony, happens to live
in the town centre and has an attic conversion with a velux window
which provides and ideal vantage point to get photos of fireworks
on Halloween night. Tony tells us he took over 100 photos on the
night and got about 3 or 4 cracking photos.A tripod is needed and
a time exposure of about 20 seconds and a good guess of when the
most fireworks are about to explode. click on the thumbnail, we
hope you enjoy. 31.10.05 |
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Fingal
County Council Awards.
The
Sports,Arts & Cultural Awards Ceremony 2005 was held in the
Bracken Court Hotel on Thurs.13th Oct. Today we bring you some of
the photographs taken on the night by one of the members of the
team.Click on thumbnail to view the rest of photos |
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| Balbriggan
Railway Station Photos.
As part of the Arts Festival, Trevor Sargent
TD presented "150 years of Railway in Balbriggan 1855- 2005"
and during the presentation Trevor spoke of many aspects of the
Railway Station which we can show you now using photos that are
very rare. We bring you several photos to do with the railway
over the last century and if you have any more information or
photos please do get in touch with us. Click on thumbnail to see
the photos. 31.10.05 |
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Drogheda
Street.
Here is a photo of Sean Reilly's shop on
Drogheda Street, presently we are not sure where on Drogheda Street
this shop was, maybe where Corrs is now? Update.
We now know this is where "Campbells Shop was" beside
Corr's. A reminder that if you have any old photos with a Balbriggan
connection, please do contact us by email or Text 086-8054275. On
the 23rd of Sept we asked for names of the three girls in the mini
skirts. We now have the name of the middle girl thanks to Siobhan
Geraghty. Click HERE
to reveal name. Update.
We think we now have all 3 names. |
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Last
Steam Train to Dublin.
Our special effects dept. have created a
photograph of a stream train crossing The Viaduct on its way to
Dublin. Team member Roger Turner was so inspired by the photograph
that he wrote a beautiful poem about it. Click on the thumbnail
to enlarge and read Rogers Poem. 30.10.05 |
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FINGAL
COUNTY COUNCIL STILL HOPING THAT LIGHTHOUSE AT BALBRIGGAN HARBOUR
CAN BE RESTORED.
"Local
T.D. and Green Party Leader, Trevor Sargent, has once again sought
the restoration of the lighthouse at Balbriggan Harbour which has
been without a lantern since 1960." This is part of a press
release, released today. If
there is one thing about the town that people say to us at B.net,
it's "Can the top of the lighthouse not be put back".
If FCC would like to see this happen and it's money that's the problem,
surely, out there, there are some very wealthy Balbrigganers, at
home or abroad whom singularly or collectively could come up with
the finance. If you feel you can help restore the second oldest
working Lighthouse in Ireland, please contact us here. info@balbriggan.net
. Click on the thumbnail to read the statement in full. 26.10.05 |
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| MINISTER
IN CHARGE OF HARBOURS TELLS GREEN PARTY LEADER THAT A REQUEST
FOR FUNDING FOR BALBRIGGAN AND SKERRIES HARBOURS IS BEING EVALUATED
Local T.D. and Green Party Leader,
Trevor Sargent, raised a question in Dáil Éireann,
following a meeting with Fingal County Manager, Mr John Tierney,
to highlight the need for funding from Government to assist the
Council in carrying out the necessary extensive repairs to Balbriggan
and Skerries Harbours. |
|
Keep
your Pets indoors.
We
have received some emails regarding pets going missing. With Halloween
just around the corner, we have to be aware that our cats and dogs
become very frightened with fireworks going off on a nightly basis.
Please keep your Cats and Dogs indoors for the coming days as at
least 3 cats have gone missing in the town. We only hope its nothing
sinister.For those who love cats and dogs we can only guess at the
pain it causes when our beloved pets go missing. Click on the thumbnail
to read on the latest missing cat. |
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Balbriggan
Photo Group
Balbriggan Photo Group, in conjunction with
Balbriggan Arts Festival are displaying photographs by the group
members. Jack Benton, Pat Costello, Joe Curtis, Martin Fanning,
Brian Howley and others have various photographs on display in the
premises previously occupied by Xtra-Vision so please come along
and see the old photos of the town along with new ones and talk
to Jack and the team who will be only to delighted to answer your
questions on Digital Photography. Talk to Joe about the history
of Balbriggan or Martin about the people of the town. we hope to
see you there. |
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| Skerries
RNLI Open Day.
The Lifeboat Station is having its Annual Open Day on Sunday,
30th October. This invite goes out to all who might be interested
in visiting the station and seeing how it operates. The photo
attached shows the lifeboat being launched and on the 30th, the
lifeboat will be launched on three separate occasions 12 noon,
2pm and 3.30pm. The station will be open to visitors from 11am
to 4pm. RNLI Christmas Cards will be on sale. Please feel free
to come and visit, we’d love to see you there. 24.10.05 |
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Adrian
Hammond represents Ireland.
Our
recent photo caption competition winner Adrian Hammond from Fancourt
Heights was unable to receive his prize as he was away in the Isle
of Man last week representing Ireland in the European 8 ball pool
championships. The tournament was held in the Villa Marina complex
in Douglas and it attracted teams from England, Scotland, Wales,
Northern Ireland, France ,Gibraltar, Shetland and hosts Isle Of
Man for both men’s and ladies team events along with singles
and men’s professional event. Click on thumbnail to read more
about this event. |
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"Snuggles"
missing Cat.....Please Help.
From
the Hampton Green area since Saturday night.He is 6 months old,
neutered, shy but with a cheeky, sweet nature. And not used to the
outdoor life.I have posted his Missing posters everywhere - hopefully
someone will spot him.He is a tabby black stripes with brown , white
front and white little paws. He was wearing a black collar with
"I belong to" written on the front, our address inside.
Our mobile numbers (087 621 7507 & 086 33 33 071).landline 841
7688. |
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Balbriggan
Harbour in heavy rain......
Our technical dept. have been on to us today
with something they are quite happy about. Apparently, they believe
that we only show the town at its best, i.e., beautiful sunshine,
blue sky's etc, but here we bring you a photo of the Harbour during
heavy rain but with a difference. Have a look 19.10.05 |
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Memories
of Balbriggan in the 50's. Part 10: Sing as we go........
Team member Roger
Turner has penned another account of 1950's Balbrigan. He recalls
as a young lad "We would catch the Drogheda Bus outside
the post office and ride to Gormanston, then had to walk up this
long and winding road... ". Roger now lives in Sheffield
and anyone wanting to contact him are very welcome to do so. Click
on the thumbnail to read more. Enjoy. 16.10.05 |
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Naul
Post Office.
Following a recent email from Pat Macken, our
research department(Jack & Joe) went down to the dungeons and
found this photograph. Its "Mr. Macken from Naul outside
the old Post Office in Naul circa 1900 which is now the Seamus Ennis
centre". Pat, we hope you enjoy this photo. 15.10.05 |
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Latest
Photos of the Square, and Georges Hill.
The work on the Square is eventually coming to
an end and it's looking splendid. They have extended the Hotel and
built an underground car park, built Civic Offices and extended
the Library. We also bring you photos of the apartments on Georges
Hill, and the new buildings on Drogheda street. 15.10.05 |
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Balbriggan
Station Photo.
Thanks to our friends, Benton/Curtis, we
bring you a cracking photo of Balbriggan station, track side with
several employees posing for the camera. We then bring you an up
to date photo with today's employees standing in the same place
as their predecessors. Click on thumbnail to view both photos. 14.10.05 |
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Ardgillan
Castle Photos.
After the disappointment of Ireland been
knocked out of the World Cup, the following day was tremendous and
helped to revive the souls. Cloudless blue sky and our intrepid
photographer, Mr T. went to Ardgillan to make the most of the beautiful
day. Generally not liking Flower/Bird photographs, he decided to
go against his grain and he seemed quite pleased with his efforts.
Click on the thumbnail to see the photos. 13.10.05 |
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Skerries
Lifeboat......We are looking for Information on this photo.
"On a recent visit to the Lifeboat College
in Poole, I was asked by the Film and Image Manager if I could get
some information on the attached photo. It is the only old photo
they have on file associated with Skerries and the only information
they have on it is that it probably dates form ca. 1924 and was
taken by W W Blood-Smyth, Dublin. Any additional info on name of
Lifeboat & photographer much appreciated. I wonder if any of
your site visitors would be able to shed any further light?"
Mary Courtney. Click on thumbnail to see photo and more details.
06.10.05 |
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Smyco
Photographs.
For those new to the town, Smyco (Smith &
Co) was the main employer in the town for 200 years and had its
premises on Station street and were famous for making undergarments.
It started in 1780 and closed in 1980 and today we bring you two
photos of some of its employees. Click on the thumbnail and see
if you recognise anyone. We hope you enjoy. 06.10.05 |
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50,000
hits since so far & Canal photo.
That's right, 50,000 hits to balbriggan.net
in the 2 years we've been on-line. We never envisaged the site would
become so popular, long may it continue. Here's a photo we brought
you before of Pauline & Fergus Benton(Jack's Kids) feeding the
Swans at the Canal and a photo taken recently from the same spot,
see the changes. We are experimenting here, when you click on thumbnail
both photos should appear in quick succession.06.10.05 |
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| Looking
to rent in Balbriggan over Christmas.
"My husband, Sam and I would like
to come home and rent a home/apartment in Balbriggan over the
Christmas week - actually Dec. 27th through January 2nd. Can you
direct me to any websites or provide me with any phone numbers
for people who let their homes? We'd prefer at least 2 bedrooms
but could possibly get by with one." If anyone can help,
here is the necessary email address Terrycallanan@aol.com |
Another
previously unseen Balbriggan Photo.
This
photo is number 54 in David Brangan's glass plate collection.. It's
now the National Irish Bank at the junction of Station/Drogheda
street. The year of the photo is unknown but we reckon 1920's. We
have published several photographs from the Brangan Collection and
today we will bring you most of them on a single page along with
a recap of the whole sequence of events. click on the thumbnail
to see and learn more. |
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Competition
Winner and updates.
In July we received a photo of a man walking
on the Beach. It was such an unusual photo that we asked you send
in an appropriate caption. We had over 20 entries and have asked
our technical dept to pick a winner and the winning caption is “he
should have gone to specsavers” sent in by Adrian
Hammond in Santry. Adrian wins a Balbriggan photo Key Ring. The
other question we posed awhile back is about the two trees that
have grown into one and we requested the location of these. Well,
they are on Market Green almost beside the Scout Hall. Click on
the appropriate thumbnail to refresh your memory. 04.10.05 |
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Update
on Restoration of Roof of Balbriggan Church.
Here we see the slates have now been fully
removed, the crane defines the skyline above the church, Sister
Anna from the Parish Team keeps a close eye on the work and yes
one of the men working on the roof IS REALLY DOING A HANDSTAND ESPECIALLY
FOR Balbriggan.net Recently it emerged that when the last major
work was done on the church roof on 1937 two men placed a bottle
with their names in the roof and one of them is still alive ….one
lives quite close to the church ,…….does anyone know
their name? We’ll let you know if the bottle is found……..Remember
if you want to dedicate a slate to the memory of a loved one then
just contact us for details on sponsorourslates@balbriggan.net
03.10.05 BH Click
on thumbnail to see photos |
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| St.
Teresa's School is celebrating its 30th anniversary
this month, and the Parents' Association have organised an anniversary
disco in the Bracken Court Hotel on Friday 14th October (Over 18's
only) Tickets are only €10.00 each and are available in the
school each morning between 9 and 10am from the Parents Association.
We will also be selling tickets on Thursday 6th October between
7.30 and 8.30pm to facilitate as many people as possible. |
Roger
Turner's . Memories
of Balbriggan in the 50's. Part 9.............
Once again, it's time to bring you another
fascinating account of Balbriggan in the 1950's by team member Roger
Turner. Roger lives in Sheffield but holidayed in Balbriggan for
many years in the 50's. Roger has many photos taken in Balbriggan
over the years and has sent us this one of 3 girls standing on the
front beach but we don't know who they are. He recognises them but
naming them is a different story. Can anyone name these?.
Click on the thumbnail to enlarge the photo and click HERE
to read part 9 of Rogers memories of Balbriggan. 23.09.05
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Music
Trax.......
Local artists performed
an acoustic night in Trax beside Balbriggan train station.They hope
to continue this gig on a monthly basis. Contact Trax for date of
next gig.Click on thumbnail to view more photos. 23.09.05
MF |
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Yoga
classes in Balbriggan.
The classes will
take place in AURA Beauty Clinic, 22 Bridge St. Balbriggan on:Tue
11th Oct at 8.30-9.30pm and Wed 12th Oct at 8-9pm.The cost for
these 8 week courses is EUR 85. Contact Paula on 087 9889103 or
see www.pkyoga.com Places
are limited. |
| Killalane
roadraces at the weekend - Balbriggan riders
I was at the racing
on Saturday - an amazing days action. I've caught a couple of
Balbriggan riders in action.... Dec Lynch(76), Keith Costello(43),
Neil Nugent(81) (All Balbriggan) and Gareth Costello(48) (Barnageera).
The event could not have happened without the great organization
and dedication of Loughshinny Motorcycle Supporters Club and it's
members/ volunteers. If anyone is interested in Roadracing and
would like to support it please visit loughshinnymotorcycleclub.com
and even just sign the guestbook. Click on thumbnail to view photos
15.09.05 KS
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Balbriggan's
New Actress
Sinead Monaghan is Balbriggan's
latest shining star in the performing arts. One of the new breed
of young stage performers Sinead will be taking part in The Dublin
Theatre Festival (Fringe) in the highly acclaimed production of
"Womb" by Rachel Rogers. Click on thumbnail to learn more
about Balbriggan's newest star.14.09.05
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Smyth
& Co, (Smyco) Broucher from 1945.
In June last year, we brought you the first
few pages from the 1945 broucher which was kindly given to us by
messers Benton & Curtis. Today we bring you pages 9 to 14 of
this 32 page publication where there are some great photos showing
what it was like inside this world famous factory. Click on thumbnail
to view. 12.09.05 |
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Gormanston
Beach Photos and Butlin's Mosney Photographs..
Beautiful weather on sunday saw Tony head
off on a long walk. A quick drive to the Delvin Bridge and then
a walk up past Mosney.
So we bring you some photos taken from around that area. Talking
of Butlin's Mosney, we have come across some more photos of this
famous holiday camp. Team member Tony spent a week there in the
mid 70's so he has fond memories of the place.Click HERE
to see the Butlins photographs or click the thumbnail to see the
Gormanston photos. Please enjoy. 12.09.05
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Sea
Rescue 1970's
Received this email from Barry Geraghty some
time back. "Came across these two from early 1990 I think.
The boat was owned by one of the Baxters or crewed by them, it lost
power and was washed aground on the back beach. The skerries lifeboat
crew and the aircorp helicopter had to rescue the crew. In the process
of launching the rescue boat from the beach it was also upturned
by the verocity of the storm. You can just about see in one of the
photos a crew man being winched to safety." Thanks Barry
for the photos. Dont forget, if you have have photos with any Balbriggan
connection, please email them to us. Update.
We have received two more photos of the "Budding Rose"
running aground thanks to the Benton/Curtis collection
Click on thumbnail to see 4 enlarged photos.11.09.05
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|
Smyco
Tokens 1884.
We received this email some time back. It
reads as follows. "Dear Balbriggan,
Your site mentions a company "Smyth & Co" in Balbriggan.
Two of the following tokens, dated 1884, are believed to come from
this company. Does anyone know anything about them? The Bradley
Nottingham token (3 types), counterstamped S&Co Ltd were found
at the same company premises in Balbriggan. Again, does anyone know
anything about them?, I hope some of your readers can help.
Regards Barry Woodside (Stafford, UK, ex Belfast)" can
anyone shed any light on this? Update.
thanks to Joe Curtis we have some
information on these tokens. It also gives us a
reason to show another photograph from the David Brangan Collection
of the Reading Rooms belonging to Smyco which were on Convent Lane.
Click on the thumbnail to read and see enlarged tokens. 11.09.05 |
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September
Slide Show.
No, we haven't abandoned the web site but
work must come first. Anyway, a reminder of a photographic exhibition
in Ardgillan Castle is on all this week, amazing photographs from
the town of St Wendal in Germany. Huge photographs with vibrant
colours make this exhibitation a must see.Our resident photographer,
Tony, was out and about today and we have put together a few photos
for your enjoyment. 06.09.05 |
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Repairs
and Refurbishment of SS Peter & Paul Catholic Church to begin.
We have previously
brought reports to you of the much needed major renovation and refurbishment
of the local Parish Catholic church. Stage 1 of this very challenging
project commenced on Monday 22nd August when the scaffolding arrived
to begin the repairs to the roof of the Parish church on Dublin
St. This Stage will run up to Christmas but the church will remain
open while the roof is being renewed. Click on thumbnail to read
more. |
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Bridal
Shop Opens in Balbriggan.
Balbriggan
Bridal opened it's doors in fine style on Saturday 20th August.
Bride and Groom, along with bridesmaids posed outside the shop for
photographers before the ceremonial cutting the ribbon to officially
open the shop. The bridal party were then taken to the penthouse
apartment overlooking the town with a spectacular view of Balbriggans
beaches and Wedding Photographers Lynnette McNally & Tony Healy
were there to capture the Bridal Shots. Brigid Murphy & Margaret
McCord are the people behind the venture and we at B.net wish them
well. Team member Martin was there representing B.net. Click on
the thumbnail to see the photos. |
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Trevor
Sargent TD looking for Photos.
Local
politician Trevor Sargent has sent us a mail "I'm on the
lookout for stills from films made on location in Balbriggan, such
as 'Sweetie Barrett' with Brendan Gleeson and 'Some Mother's Son'.
Suggestions welcome. Trevor ". If anyone can help click
HERE
to mail Trevor and B.net. 19.8.05 |
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Skerries
100---Local man Dec Lynch.
Keith Sherwin has sent us some photos of
local man, Dec Lynch taking part in the Skerries 100 road race.
Dec is doing very well and recently got a 1st and 2nd place at Walderstown
road races. We wish Dec best of luck and continued success.18.08.05
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Balbriggan.Net
hits Santa Ponsa.Mallorca Aug 05.............
Balbriggan.net has left it's mark in Santa Ponsa when Martin presented
Seans Bar with a framed photograph of Balbriggan Harbour by Tony
with our website www.balbriggan.net clearly visible for all to see.While
there Martin also met up with Eric Cantona.Not missing an opportunity
Eric was delighted to pose for some photographs for Martin, who
in turn signed his autograph for Eric.Funny old world folks. 18.08.05 |
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Restoring
the Lighthouse.......
With the proposed development around Balbriggan,
Seal Sanctuary, Bremore Harbour etc, money could surely be found
to bring back the Lighthouse to it's former glory. Harry Tuite Snr,
who was involved in the domes removal, admitted to B.net that it
should never have been taken down in 1960. We have received encouragement
from Trevor Sargent TD and Clr May McKoen on this subject with the
former sending a letter to the relevant authorities. Let us know
why you would like the Lighthouse restored. We need all our regular
visitors to B.net to lend a hand and send us an email of encouragement.
We at B.net make no apologies for trying to better the visual impact
of the town. Send those emails to info@balbriggan.net
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Roger Turner's .
Memories of Balbriggan in the 50's. Part 8.
This man has the memory of an elephant,
and the resemblance doesn't end there either, we jest. Part 8: Little
Boy Fishing... is a splendid account of 1950's Balbriggan where
team member Roger holidayed each year. Isaac's Hole, the Bower,
The Devlin Bridge,Jim Hagan, Cardy Rocks are just some of the names
that feature in this months Memories of Balbriggan in the 50's.
Click on either thumbnail to read. 18.08.05
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Pioneers
Photos---We are looking for names.
Here
is a photo we came across in the Benton/Curtis collection and it's
the pioneers. Unfortunately there's no date on the reverse or do
we know where it was taken. We recognise some but contact us if
you spot anyone you know. Click to enlarge.18.08.05 |
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| Sewage
Works in Balbriggan---Latest News from Fingal C.C. |
|
Gaelscoil
Balbriggan---New Web site.
We have been asked to bring to your attention
the launch of a new web site in the town. Apparently the is huge
interest in the town of having children educated through Irish.
Spaces are limited but to find out more, click on the logo. We wish
gaelscoil Bhaile Brigin the very best. 17.08.05 |
|
When
two become one?????
Some
of the team here are heavily into Wedding Photography and excellent
at it too!
But this one is of two trees that seem to have ‘tied the knot’
some years ago and now look like they are really the one. No it
is not something our technical department have produced, it is reality……………………but
where is it ?? Answer soon…..15.08.05
BH |
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Do
you remember when the beach was full and the weather was great ?
……….it was the summer of 2005 !
A good summer certainly
brings the crowds to the beach. Here are two photos by Brian Howley
showing the people enjoying themselves. The beach looks great when
the sun shines. click on thumbnail to view. 15.08.05
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Balbriggan
Slide Show.
Today we bring you
a slide show of Balbriggan. This is aimed at those who have Broadband
so be warned if you are using Dial-up it could take several minutes
to load. We hope you enjoy. As usual click on thumbnail. 13.08.05
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Coastal
Photos of Balbriggan.
These photos are primarily aimed at our surfers
abroad . We started off taking a photo up by the sailors Grave,
and then of Blackrock Beach along with the rock where the diving
board used to go out to and one or two others. Click on the thumbnail
to view all. 11.08.05 |
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Balrothery
National School Photo 1950's
How
do we do it. Again your local web site brings you another classic
photo. This time its an 1950's photo of Balrothery National School
with a good percentage of the names thanks to Anthony McMahon who
also supplied the photo. We've made the photo as big as we could
keeping in mind that not everybody has broadband. Any names or corrections,
do please let us know. Click on thumbnail to enlarge. 11.08.05 |
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Ras
Tailteann
Some weeks ago the around Ireland Ras Tailteann
cycle race travelled through Balbriggan as it does most years. Brian
Howley caught some shots viewed from Drogheda St (Milestone Inn
/ Harvest Inn area) of the Stage 1 which started in Dublin and finished
in Emyvale. Overall winner after the eight stages around Ireland
was Chris Newton from the GB Recycling.co.uk team. It is always
great to see this race coming through the town given our historical
attachment to the sport ( Harry Reynolds and all that ) and presumably
the question might be asked is it better to see it in the town or
should it now follow the Harry Reynolds Memorial Road route? We
think it is far more interesting to see it in the town environment.
10.08.05 BH |
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Monica
Tolan.
Monica runs two beauty Clinics in the town,
Hampton and Vauxhall Street. They regularly visit B.net and so thought
if fitting to submit a photo. Monica is the daughter of Mona &
Jim Murphy, married to Frances Tolan of Coney hill, Balbriggan.
B.net are always looking for photographs with a Balbriggan connection,
so if you have some please do contact us or Text us on 086-8054275.
Click on thumbnail to enlarge. |
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Who
is this Man, He left Balbriggan 40 years ago.
That's right, almost 40 years ago. Team member
Tony was out taking photos on Sunday evening when he was approached
by this man who asked would it be possible to have his photo taken
with his wife and his mother. B.net are always willing to oblige
and at present, photos are in the post to this man. We'll give his
name in a day or two. Hint Lawless & Gibbons Terrace 09.08.05 |
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Balbriggan
Lighthouse with Dome---Let's have it back......
Those
new to the town may not be aware that there was originally a dome
on the lighthouse up until about 1960. It was removed when the Lighthouse
was electrified and we can only presume it was removed due to corrosion.
If there's one thing that we at Balbriggan.net are asked about more
than anything else, it's about replacing the dome. We asked our
technical dept to show us what it would look like and they have
come up with what you can see. We are aware that the harbour is
in need of major repair but wouldn't it be lovely to have the Lighthouse
back as it was. Let us know what you think to info@balbriggan.net.
Click HERE
to email us your views. We will place all messages about the lighthouse
on a special page. Click on the thumbnail to enlarge and to read
what others have to say about our Lighthouse. Get those comments
coming in.. 06.08.05. |
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Dublin
Lord Mayor, Alfie Byrne with Balbriggan Boy Scouts 1932.
Is there no stopping this web site at all,
we bring you another Gem of a photo. This time it's the Balbriggan
Scouts with Dublin's Lord Mayor, Alfie Byrne. Alfie was Lord Mayor
for 9 consecutive years from 1930 to 1939 which helps date this
photo which appears to have been taken outside St.Peters & Pauls
Church.. We sincerely thank Harry Tuite Snr for this masterpiece.
Click to enlarge. 05.08.05 Update, we now
know the year was 1932. Eucharist Congrest. |
|
The
Lady Stairs Damaged.
We heard a report on the radio that the
"Lady Stairs" footbridge had been badly damaged. So we
sent one of the team to investigate and right enough the section
over the road has been taken down possibly due to been hit by a
large vehicle. Pipe-laying is currently going on at this section.
We will keep you posted. 03.08.05 |
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Sheep
Dip in Balbriggan...........
Not
what you think. Apparently, a pet sheep pulled the wool over over
its owners eyes and managed to escape for a time. Barry Geraghty
has kindly sent us 3 photos of the event which happened Sunday morning.
31.07.05 |
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Another
1900's Photo---David Brangan. 2 Photos, then and now.
Today's photos is No.1 in David's collection
of Lantern Glass Slides of Balbriggan. This photo was taken in the
early 1900's and its a view from the viaduct of Cumiskey's
Coal Yard with Kincora House(Then the RIC Barracks) in the top right
of the photo. We sent Tony out to take a photo from the same angle
to compare how things have changed over the century. We sincerely
thank David Brangan for allowing us to use his photos. Click on
the thumbnail to view both photos. 31.07.05 |
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Santa
comes to Wavin in 1972.
It's been a few months since we brought you
some photos from our Wavin collection. Apparently some 240 children
in the town got to see Santa in '72 and had lots of minerals, Ice
cream, cakes and then a film. No mobile phones, computer games etc,
different era. Click on the thumbnail to see if you recognise anyone.
31.07.05 |
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Balbriggan
Sea Scouts.
Here is a photo given to us by Harry Tuite
snr and he has supplied about 9 names. So anyone out there who can
fill in the missing names or suggest a year the photo was taken,
please do contact us. As usual, click on thumbnail to enlarge.
31.07.05 |
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Balbriggan----Part
7: Where The Sun Always Shines...
Roger Turner has penned part 7, Memories of Balbriggan
in the 50s and this one is well worth a read. Click on the link
to learn more of Balbriggan in the 50's. Thanks Roger.26.07.05 |
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How
popular is Balbriggan.net.............138 hits in 24 hours, that's
how popular.
From 11am on Monday to 11am on Tuesday we noted
that the hits went from 29192 to 29330, that's 138 hits in 24 hours.
Jack, Joe, Martin and Tony, take a bow for a job well done. |
Today's Photos,
Doyle, Tuite, Morrison, Gough.
Tony decided to make full
use of the continued good weather today and seeing it was his birthday
he was in jubilant form. Harry Tuite was his first encounter when
Harry called to the house. No sooner had Harry arrived, when along
came Jim Morrison, so a great photo of the two was got. Next we
meet Des Gough who runs a small shop on the beach and was doing
a roaring trade, so we got 2 photos of Des. Next Tony bumps into
Pat & Dolores Doyle who inform him that their daughter regularly
checks B.net for the latest photos so he had to get a photo of them
to surprise her. Next our reporter was informed of the problem of
the Jelly fish on the beach and right enough, as far as the eye
could see, jelly fish were everywhere. And finally, showing off
that he has a remote control camera, Tony includes himself and his
dogs to finish off a pleasant day shooting. Click on thumbnail to
view photos. 26.07.05 |
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Des
Darragh Jr.
Here is a lovely photo that Des Darragh Sr has
sent us that means a lot to him. It's his son, Des with his daughters,
Kim and Katie on Balbriggan beach taken about 5 years ago. Enjoy.
25.07.05 |
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Heat
wave gone big waves back.
The great weather we've been having the past few
weeks came to an end on Sunday and was captured by Johnny McLeer.
If you have any photos with a Balbriggan connection, send them to
us by email and we'll put them on the site. Click on thumbnail.
25.07.05 |
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Leinster
Special Olympics Final.
Today we bring you some photographs taken by Martin
during the finals at DCU in June. We also have some photos of the
festival of Howth in July. Click on thumbnail to view. 21.07.05 |
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Bracken
River.
Can anyone tell us where the source of the Bracken
River is? Looking on the latest OS map there seems to be several
rivers/streams flowing into the town. Suggestions welcome.
21.07.05 |
Balbriggan
Harbour from 1970 and Balrothery 1966.
Thanks to our friends, Benton & Curtis, they
have kindly sent us two photographs for your pleasure. The first
is of the harbour showing what was there before the "Laurels,
Quayside" was built and the second is McCormack's Pub in Balrothery
in 1966 after a fall of snow. Click on thumbnail to view.
21.07.05. |
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| Classic
Photo
We received this photo taken recently on the
main beach. We think it's brilliant. We need a caption to go with
it and the winner of the best caption wins a Balbriggan Key ring.
Send those entries to info@balbriggan.net
We sincerely thank Dr. Franck Kerhervé for sending
it in. 15.07.05 We
have added your captions under the photo, keep them coming. |
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| Dr.Michael
Woods.Charlie Mc Dermott.Martin Fanning.......Competition wins by
two of the team........Following photographic competitions
in Rush and Howth we are delighted to announce that our very own
Jack Benton was a winner in the Rush Arts Festival photographic
competition and Martin Fanning was the overall winner in theSpirit
of Howth competition run in association with the Howth Festival
2005 where the judge was well known professional photographer Tom
Lawlor.Click here for photos.15.07.05 |
|
Another 1900's
Balbriggan Photo.
It's been a while since
we published a David Brangan glass plate photo. For those new to
the site, we have about 100 photos of Balbriggan which were given
to us on glass by David. All the photos are taken around 1900 and
David have allowed us to publish certain photographs on B.net. Today's
photo is of the salt works of Balbriggan which is now O'Sheas Bar
down at the harbour. We've also included a photo of one of
the glass plates to show what they look like Click HERE
to see other David Brangan photos. 14.07.05 |
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John
D's Darts Club hits the Bullseye..c1977.
These photos will cause a stir if only for the
hair-do's. Did people really dress like that in the 70's. Tommy
Geraghty very kindly sent us these photos of the Darts team which
drank and trained in John D's. Check out these photos and see who
you can spot. 14.07.05 |
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Balbriggan
Choir Photo c1968.
Pictures like this don't come around every
day and we sincerely thank Tommy Geraghty for this
gem. Tommy has made a great effort to put names to all the faces
but there are one or two exceptions where he cant remember their
christian names. So if you know any of the missing names, please
email us by clicking HERE.
14.07.05 |
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Balbriggan
Drama Group Photos.
We
bring you about 10 photos today of the Balbriggan Drama Group. Gus
Kennedy, Robert Cullen, Monica Cullen, Yvonne Healy, Phyllis Monaghan,
Tommy Monaghan are just some of the people featured in these shots.
We sincerely thank Gus & Yvonne Kennedy for supplying us with
same. We hope you enjoy. |
|
Cattle
on Dublin Street---Is there a photo out there of this?
For those of you who haven't read Roger Turners
memories of 1950's Balbriggan, may we remind you to do so. So far
Roger(now lives in Sheffield) has written 6 accounts of the times
he spent in Balbriggan and is currently writing part 9. Roger used
to come to Balbriggan on Holidays from England and he describes
wonderfully how things were so good here compared to war torn Sheffield.
Rogers writes exclusively for Balbriggan.net and in one of his recent
articles he talks about the cattle on market day."Now I
don't need to tell you about cattle markets, for, like me, I bet
you have many memories (both good and bad) of Balbriggan Cattle
Market. But whatever else, Market Day for this little English lad
in the fifties was memorable. One dog and its farmer set off at
first light with a line of walking cattle heading for the market.
(I bet that doesn't happen now!) Soon, other farmers would join
them, and from early in the morning the lanes and byways leading
to Balbriggan would become jammed.
Yes, I know all about the shite they left rotting in the street,
but that was part of the process.
"What are you doing with that old bucket?"
"Ah, sure, aren't I just going to shovel some up to put on
me rhubarb."
"Well, you're welcome to it. I would rather have custard on
mine!" So does anyone have any photos of cattle on Market
Day. If so please contact us. |

Rogers First Article Click HERE
Rogers Second Article. Clich HERE.
Rogers Third Article Click HERE.
|
Check
the Guest Book.
A
reminder to regularly check the Guest Book. Here is a question that
Estelle Scott has posted recently.
"Does anyone remember or have photos of a hosiery factory
with the name 'SCOTT' written on the roof? My husband's ancestors
came from Balbriggan to Nottingham and were all Frame Work Knitters.
We think Walter Scott probably returned to his family in 1891. Joseph
Scott born about 1836 and his father James came from there.I know
the factory was there in the 1960's. Thank you if you can help at
all" |
Roxy
the dog brings home the catch from the sea !!
One of the team from our technical department,
Mr T, has a very soft spot for small dogs, so soft in fact that
he has 2 himself. Anyway, this is Roxy retrieving the stick that
Brian has thrown. Two great photos here which we hope you enjoy.
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Make
TRAX for your coffee by the railway!
Here we see the former
site of Sunlight Studios and the wall which proudly commemorates
some of the famous award winning medals which were won by Smyco
for their fine hosiery. It has now become a haunt for the coffee
drinking public whether they are bleary eyed commuters on the nearby
trains or just visiting for a leisurely lunch.
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Something
high rising behind the Station Masters House !
While
walking around Balbriggan Brian Howley decided that the view through
the garden gate of the Station Masters house was curious and would
become even more and more curious as time moved on! The following
is a progression of photos taken from EXACTLY the same spot starting
in early 2003 and progressing right up to present date…..obviously
the building referred to is the high rise apartment building which
now dominates the view around the Railway station. Also shown is
view from High St Hill.
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What
type of bells will ring in the Chapel Street apartments?
The recent development of apartments in Chapel
Street is on the site of some very historic buildings all of which
have had various kinds of bells ringing down through the years.
Firstly the church bell pealed as the original building started
off as the Roman Catholic Church from 1780 approx up to 1842. The
shape of this building was Cruciform (like a cross). After this
the building served as the local National School up to the 1930’s
when SS Peter & Paul’s was completed. The residents of
Chapel St were by now used to listening to the school bell ringing
out. Next the building was used as an abattoir and the ringing bells
around the necks of the cattle approaching the famous gates didn't’t
spell out a positive message for them! Around this time the Fire
Brigade station was started and again the residents began to hear
a different bell, that of alarm when the fire tender was called
into action! Time was called on both of these buildings last summer
and the new apartments have been built in double quick time and
one now wonders what kind of bells the residents of Chapel St will
be listening to in the coming months………perhaps
early morning alarm calls for commuters??? |
|
Ardgillan
Castle Concerts.
Sure enough, the minute we ask for photos
of the recent concerts at Ardgillan, Brian Howley springs into action
with some great photos of the said concerts. The first night saw
Mel C, Status Quo, and Meat Loaf in action and the next night was
the Devlins, Zutons and Moby. Brilliant weather added to the occasion
and the view was supposed to be spectacular with Quo apologising
for the view in jest. We sincerely thank Brian Howley for the brilliant
photos he got and we bring you a selection of them, we hope you
enjoy. |
|
DJ
has had his chips !
Where once we all had our Friday night ‘chippie’
meal (in Drogheda Street between the Supervalu complex and the Milestone
Inn).has now been all changed.
In these photos one day we see the ‘Bag of Bargains’
shop and also the aforementioned DJ’s chipper and the next
day we see it no more. All making way for an enlarged Supervalu
store and other business premises in the near future. Watch this
space!
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|
REM
Gig at Ardgillan-photos.
John Maguire has very kindly sent us some
photos from the gig of the year. A great time was had by all. If
anyone has other photos especially of the stage, do contact us.
|
|
Petra
Ariel Skyvova--Fingallian Holy Wells.
Petra has written this book and it is published
by Fingal County Council Libraries. We recently received a
copy and our initial reaction is very positive, we had no idea there
were so many Holy wells in Fingal. For those living in Balbriggan,
the book is available in McGovers's(Vision Radio). We wish petra
well(no pun intended) in her venture. Click on the icon to learn
more about this publication. 10.07.09 Item
105-05 |
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Balbriggan
Arts Festival Website.
Pauline o'Hare has requested that we place
a link to Arts Festival web site which we are only too delighted
to do. Click HERE. |
St.
Teresa's Parents Association.
I am writing on behalf of St. Teresa's Parents
Association.
Our school will celebrate its 30th Anniversary this coming October,
and we would like to appeal for any old photos or funny stories
regarding the school. If anybody can help will they please contact
the school direct.
Many thanks. Patricia McGarrigle. |
Balbriggan
Through Rose-Tinted Specs Memories of Balbriggan in the Fifties.
By Roger Turner.
Roger has now written
part 6 of his memories of Balbriggan. Click HERE
to read his account. |
Gerry
Guildea on Live 8, 2012 Olympics and London Bombings.
Gerry and Amanda have sent us a photo of
themselves at the Live 8 concert in Hyde Park enjoying the biggest
& best gig ever!. Thanks guys.Update.
09.07.05. Item 101-05 |
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Confreys
Pub/Shop.
Here are two gems showing the inside of this
once famous Shop/Pub. It stood where the Deli Burger stands now
and was run by 3 brothers, their names we will have shortly. The
pint was apparently the best in the town and no matter what you
were looking for in the shop, they had it, even if it ment going
down the cellar. It's sad that its gone and we believe the brothers
are living in the Drogheda area..We sincerely thank Tom Cullen,
Fancourt Heights for allowing us to use these shots. 09.07.05
Item 100-05 |
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Tesco
Workers Enjoy a drink in De Bruns.
One of the team was taking some photos in
DeBruns to launch the fact they now boast wireless Broadband. While
there, Tony was threatened with physical injury if he didn't take
a photo of the girls. Isn't fear a wonderful thing. We hope you
all had a good time. Click on thumbnail to see photo enlarged.99-05 |
| |