Local History
Ballinamere translated as Baile na Maor means Town of the Landlords. The landlords were probably the O' Molloys in the area. This area is bounded by the huge Esker Riada on one side and The Grand Canal on the other side.
Ballykilmurray once had a golf course and racecourse. The racecourse started in 1842. Once a jockey was killed on the course at a place called The Crack of the Whip.
Castles
The construction of Ballycowen Castle started in 1626, but it was not finished until 1675. The Castle was built by Sir Jasper Herbert and Lady Jane Finglas. Above the door is his motto By God of might, I hold my right. The castle was attacked by Cromwell's soldiers in the 1640's. Ballycowen Castle was burnt and rebuilt twice.
Ballinamere Castle was built in the 15th century by a man called Horan .It is said that he had 21 children, all sons and many wives. There is a story told that during the harvest season one year Horan died, since his sons were so busy with the harvest they put him into a nearby well to preserve him. When the harvest season was over, they buried him.
Ballykilmurray castle was built in the 15th by Councillor Molloy.The Dubursgo chalice was found by some herdsmen of Councillor Molloy in the 18th century.
There is a tunnel, which passes under the school. It runs from Ballycowen castle to Ballinamere and to Ballykilmurray castle. Many years ago Kings and Lords fought many battles and the only way people could travel safely from Ballycowen castle to the other castles was underground. The tunnel was very useful. It is a pity that when we have too much work to do that we can't sneak out of school into the underground tunnel. There is an opening into the tunnel at Ballykilmurray castle .A local farmer blocked it off a couple of years ago, in fear of someone getting hurt.
Kilbride cemetery was built in the 14th cenetury, by St.Bridget, there was mass held in it for over 300 years, before it was burnt down. Fr.John Daly was the last priest to celebrate mass there. In the next few years parts of Kilbride will be restored to its original state.
By Jamie and Orla.