New book on Carrickfergus through the ages

‘Carrickfergus - Through The Ages’ looks at the rich built heritage the town has to offer.

It has been launched by Carrickfergus Townscape Heritage Initiative (THI), which is an regeneration scheme supported by £1.55 million from The National Lottery Heritage Fund and £0.55 million from Mid and East Antrim Borough Council.

The Mayor, Councillor Peter Johnston, said: “I would like to thank all those who contributed to this fantastic publication which showcases the captivating heritage of Carrickfergus.

“There is so much history attached to the town and so much that we can all learn about from this book. To have all of this compiled in the one place makes it the perfect gift for anyone of all ages to enjoy.”

Not only does Carrickfergus have the best preserved Anglo-Norman castles anywhere in Ireland, and the Anglo-Norman church of St Nicholas’, there is also the elegant Market House dating to 1755, and the current Town Hall, built as the County of Antrim Court House in 1779. These are just a fraction of the buildings illustrated in the publication,

Councillor Cheryl Johnston, chair of Carrickfergus THI project board, said “we are delighted to be launching this publication, as part of our education programme. The book features several of the properties already regenerated or to be restored through the THI funding programme.

“Carrickfergus is a much older settlement than many other local places, including Belfast, and this book will provide you examples of medieval buildings through the Victorian era up to the Second World War.”

Edited by Laura Patrick, the book brings together a range of experts to highlight the stories of buildings, from the 1100s through to the 20th century, including the beautiful historic maps of the town.

The THI extended thanks to Ruairi Ó Baoill, Dr Lisa Townsend, Helen Rankin, Philip Orr and Alan Freeburn for their contributions

Paul Mullan, director of the Northern Ireland National Lottery Heritage Fund, said: “I’d like to congratulate Carrickfergus THI on the launch of this new publication.

“We’re delighted that, thanks to National Lottery players, we’re able to support important projects like this, which help to explore and uncover the unique stories associated with Carrickfergus’ history.”

The book is freely available from the Civic Centre mall, Antrim Street and the PDF will be free to download at:https://www.midandeastantrim.gov.uk/CarrickThroughTheAges

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