A history of the town of Belfast : from the earliest times to the close of the eighteenth century ; with maps and illustrations

Each story keeps the passage it was read from. Open one to read it as the scan has it, and, where the companion has written its own telling, that too. The passages are read off photographs of the page by machine, so a word here and there comes out wrong; they are kept as the reading produced them, so you can check any of them against the scan.

1. Sir Arthur Tyringham escapes Newry when captured by rebels

   near Newry · town · Down · 1641–1642

   Sir Arthur Tyringham had been governor of Newry and escaped from the town when it was taken by the rebels, after which he shared command of Belfast with Colonel Chichester.

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   Sir Arthur Tyringham had been governor of Newry, escaped from that town

   100 HISTOKY OF BELFAST.

   Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn

   As the companion tells it

   Newry stands along this road. In 1641 Sir Arthur Tyringham was governor of Newry. When the rebels took the town, he escaped from it. He later shared command of Belfast with Colonel Chichester.

2. The ancient Pottinger tomb removed from Belfast to Kilmore graveyard

   Kilmore · townland · Down · 1602–1813

   An immense Pottinger tomb dating to 1602 stood in the old graveyard in High Street, Belfast, but was destroyed when the church was rebuilt in 1813; the family had part of the tomb removed by forty cars to Kilmore graveyard, County Down, where a new inscription commemorates its origin and later burial of Charlotte Pottinger.

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   "The Burying Place of the Pottingers since 1602 being destroyed by building the Church in Belfast

   in 1813 — Part of the old Tomb was removed here out of respect to the memory of Charlotte Pottinger

   Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 125

   As the companion tells it

   Somewhere near here in Kilmore lies part of an old Pottinger tomb. The family's burying place in Belfast dated to 1602. When Belfast church was rebuilt in 1813 that tomb was destroyed. Part of it was brought here, removed, as the stone says,

3. William Waring's elaborate 1676 funeral instructions

   near Belfast · city · Antrim · 1676

   William Waring's will, dated 1676, directed he be 'decently buryed in the Church of Belfast' and left detailed instructions for a devout funeral, with scarves and rings distributed to relatives and mourners kept in close mourning.

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   members of the Belfast Warings have been examined, the older of which is, without doubt, that of the very Tliomas who is represented to have been the first of the name who settled in Belfast. The following extracts from it show something of his history, and a little also of the fashion of the times. It is dated 1665. He desires to be buried "within the Church of Belfast;" leaves £15 a-year for life to Janet Waring his wife ; " also the two Rooms over (? and) the Kitchen, wherein I now live, with the furniture, Bedds, and all things thereunto belonging, and one Silver Cupp and two of the best Sylver Spoones, with one Park of land near the North Gate leading to Carrickfergus." After some other directions he enjoins his son to see him " decently and handsonilie buried," and then leaves £40 to the poor of Belfast, to which he makes this addition — " And if it please God that my vessel called the Providence of Belfast return safely back from S* Se Basstins whereunto shee is gone and Laden with several Commodities to that place, doe saflie retorne without damadge hot to a gain, then my will and mind is that Twentie Pounds more shalle bee given to the said Poore of the Towne of Belfast." The will of William Waring of Belfast, the son of the preceding, as stated when he was made Burgess, 17th April, 1660, is very long, and deals with large property. A few short extracts only can be inserted. It is dated 1676. He also directs that he shall be decently " Buryed in the Church of Belfast ;" and after some other lengthened items makes the fifth, which is rather peculiar and now inexplicable. It is — " That my Exect" allow my p'^tended wife Nothing but what she Recovers by Law." The next clauses are somewhat curious —

   " I Leave to my several Eelations in Downe and Antrim, those of the name of Waringe, to each person qualitied to wear them, as well Men as women, A Scarflfe and Ring, and to the meaner sorte 20 shillings a peece in lieu thereof, if they demand it personally one Month after my Decease."

   Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 118

   As the companion tells it

   Belfast, in 1676, was where William Waring left instructions for his burial. He directed that he be, in his words, "decently Buryed in the Church of Belfast." His will was very long and dealt with large property. William had been made Burgess on the 17th of April, 1660. Among the lengthened items of his will, the fifth clause is strange and now inexplicable. He wrote that his executors should allow his pretended wife nothing but what she recovers by law. Then came the funeral provisions. He left to his several relations in Down and Antrim, those of the name of Waring, to each person qualified to wear them, as well men as women, a scarf and ring. To the meaner sort he left 20 shillings each in lieu, if they demanded it personally one month after his decease. William was the son of Thomas Waring, who had been one of the Belfast Warings. Thomas's own will, dated 1665, also asked for burial within the Church of Belfast. Thomas left 15 pounds a year for life to his wife Janet, along with rooms over the kitchen where he lived, furniture, beds, a silver cup, two silver spoons, and a park of land near the North Gate leading to Carrickfergus. Thomas left 40 pounds to the poor of Belfast, with a condition. If his vessel called the Providence of Belfast returned safely from St. Sebastian, laden with commodities, without damage but to a gain, then 20 pounds more should be given to the poor of the town.

4. Attainder of Joseph Cunningham of Antrim under James II

   near Antrim · town · Antrim · 1689

   In 1689, when many persons were attainted by James the Second, Joseph Cunningham, Esq., of Antrim was named among those attainted, believed to be a connection of the Cunningham family who continued at the old house at Ballyclare.

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   " The Cunningham family was settled at the plantation of Ulster at Ballyclare, in the district of Kilmakevit, and parish of Killead, and the old house of the family, built on the plan of the original Scotch settlers, was standing till about five years ago. That the Cunningham family are old and important in this locality is proved by the fact that, when Cromwell, in 1653, had determined on removing the leading Presbyterians from Ulster to Munster, among those who were mentioned to be removed was William Cunningham of Kilmakevit, ancestor to Waddell Cunningham, the famous Belfast merchant ; and again in 1689, when so many persons were attainted by James the Second, Joseph Cunningham, Esq., of Antrim, was one of the number, and, we believe, a connection of the aforesaid Cunningham family, who continued to occupy the old house at Ballyclare, near Lough Neagh, till about fifty years ago."

   These few remarks barely correspond, chiefly in relation to Waddell Cunningham's early emigration to America, with the particulars furnished by his grand-nephew, Mr. Douglas of Eostrevor. In the main, however, the statements are correct.

   Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 433

   As the companion tells it

   The town of Antrim holds a story from 1689. In that year James the Second attainted a great many persons, and among them was Joseph Cunningham, Esq., of Antrim. The Cunningham family had been settled at the plantation of Ulster at Ballyclare, in the district of Kilmakevit and the parish of Killead. Their old house, built on the plan of the original Scotch settlers, was standing till about five years before this history was written. The family's long standing in the locality is shown by an earlier event. In 1653, when Cromwell had determined on removing the leading Presbyterians from Ulster to Munster, among those mentioned for removal was William Cunningham of Kilmakevit, ancestor to Waddell Cunningham, the famous Belfast merchant. Joseph Cunningham, attainted in 1689, is believed to have been a connection of that same Cunningham family, who continued to occupy the old house at Ballyclare, near Lough Neagh, till about fifty years before this account.

5. Belfast meeting house ruined after use as a citadel

   near Belfast · city · Antrim · 1657

   The public meeting place at Belfast had been much ruinated after being converted for some years into a citadel, requiring £100 for repairs ordered by the Cromwellian council.

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   " To Eepaire the Publique Meeting Place att Belfast. " H. Cromwell. " Ordered that Henry Markham Esq. doe out of y" Publique Monies that are or shall come mto his hands arising out of Parochiall Tythes and Glebes issue forth and pay unto Mr. John Price, Eec"" att Dublin, the sum of £100, the same being by him to be issued out for y'' necessary Repaires of the Publique Meeting Place att Belfast which hath been much ruinated by being for some years past converted and made use of as a Citadell, the rest of y^ charg-i for y^ repaire thereof being to bee made by an equall and indifferent Cesse by the Justices of the Peace according to Law : And, for y^ said Henry Markham's paym* of y^ said sum this Avith the said Mr. John Price's receipts shall bee a warrant.

   •'Councell Chamber, Dublin, 13tli January, 1657."^

   Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 69

   As the companion tells it

   As the road takes you through Belfast, there is a story from 1657 about a building here that had served as the public meeting place. It had been converted and made use of as a citadel for some years past, and by then it was much ruinated. In January of that year, the Cromwellian council met in the council chamber in Dublin and ordered repairs. Henry Cromwell signed the order. Henry Markham, who held public monies arising from parochial tithes and glebes, was directed to pay 100 pounds to Mr. John Price, the receiver at Dublin. That sum was to be issued for the necessary repairs of the meeting place. The rest of the charges were to be met by an equal and indifferent cess, raised by the justices of the peace according to law. Markham's payment was to be warranted by this order together with Price's receipts.

6. John Chichester's Obscure Grave at Old Belfast Church

   near Belfast · city · Antrim · 1647

   John Chichester, brother of the first Earl of Donegall and father of the second, died in 1647 and was buried privately in an obscure grave at the old church in High Street, Belfast, alongside his wife per her request.

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   The Chichesters were not all interred at Carrickfergus. Of John Chichester, the second son of Lord Edward, and uext brother to Arthur, first Earl of Donegall, this note is in Lodge's Peerage (vol. i., p. 330). "He died in 1647, as appears by the probate of his will in London, 4th February, 1647-8, and in Dublin in July, 1657 ; and is so confirmed by his Lady's will (proved 8th November, 1673), wherein she desires, that if she died in the North, to be buried privately by her deceased husband, Mr John Chichester, at Belfast." This must have been at the old church in High Street, and yet this John Chichester, interred in so obscure a grave, was not only brother of the first Earl of Donegall, but father of the second.

   ^ For the Will of the Lord Deput}% his likeness, genealogy from himself, and some other particulars, see Appendix No. 5.

   Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 45

   As the companion tells it

   Belfast has an old church in High Street where the Chichesters were not all interred at Carrickfergus. John Chichester was the second son of Lord Edward, and next brother to Arthur, first Earl of Donegall. He died in 1647, as the probate of his will confirms, recorded in London on the 4th of February, 1647, and in Dublin in July, 1657. His Lady's will, proved on the 8th of November, 1673, says she desires that if she died in the North, to be buried privately by her deceased husband, Mr John Chichester, at Belfast. So he lies in an obscure grave at that old church in High Street. Yet this man, buried so privately, was not only brother of the first Earl of Donegall but father of the second.

7. Mr Totesbury's spoliation between Lisburn and Antrim

   near Lisburn · town · Antrim · 1641

   The Rawdon Papers describe the effects of the 1641 rebellion on Mr Totesbury, who lived between Lisburn and Antrim, including the loss of his property, showing the material impact of the rebellion on the district near Belfast.

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   when taken by the rebels, and, as above stated, had, with Colonel Chichester, joint command in Belfast. The nearest place outside of Belfast where particulars of the effects of the rebellion are described will perhaps be found mentioned in the Eawdon Pajmrs, pp. 88-92, from Mr. Totesbury, who lived somewhere between Lisburn and Antrim. It shows an advance in property and material comforts one would hardly have expected in 1641, and the narrative of Mr. Totesbury's spoliation is fully told.

   1 Mr. Froude, in his account of the capture of Sir Brian O'Neill, with all its disastrous accompaniments, in Belfast in 1574, mentions "the walls of the town." This is an error, but not one affecting the author's comments. Belfast was never walled, and the matter is but referred to here to state that fact.

   Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn

   As the companion tells it

   Near Lisburn, in 1641, a man called Mr Totesbury lived somewhere between this town and Antrim. The Rawdon Papers tell what the rebellion did to him. His losses are fully described there. What he lost shows an advance in property and material comforts one would hardly have expected in 1641, before the rebels took what he had.

8. Sexton's fee for grave-making at Belfast parish church

   High Street · street · Down · 1645

   In 1645 Richard Stafford was appointed Sexton for the Church of Belfast and was to receive fourpence yearly from each householder, plus fourpence for every burial for making the grave, while keeping church and churchyard in decent order. This refers to the old church and churchyard in High Street.

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   " 16th October 1645. At a council held this day the Sovereign, Burgesses and Commonalty ordered that Eich^ Stafford being appointed Sexton for the Church of Belfast shall receive for his yearly Stipend of every Householder, and other person following a trade or occupation though he be a single man and no householder, 4 pence sterhng yearly during the time he continues in office ; and shall receive for every burial at the said parish church 4 pence for making the grave ; the said Eich*^ Stafford taking a diligent care and charge for the keeping of the Church and Church Yard in decent order."

   This of course refers to the old church and churchyard in High Street. An order concerning the same, in November, 1647, is inserted in the Eecords, and is expressive of the condition of the town and some of its church interests.

   Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 100

   As the companion tells it

   The old church and churchyard in High Street, Belfast, had a sexton appointed in 1645. On the 16th of October that year, the Sovereign, Burgesses and Commonalty held a council and ordered that Richard Stafford, being appointed Sexton for the Church of Belfast, should receive for his yearly stipend fourpence sterling from every householder, and from every other person following a trade or occupation, even if he were a single man and no householder. He was to receive fourpence for every burial at the parish church, for making the grave. In return, Stafford was to take diligent care and charge for keeping the church and churchyard in decent order. An order concerning the same matter followed in November 1647, expressive of the condition of the town and some of its church interests.

9. Arrest and imprisonment of Fr. Phelomy O'Hamill

   near Belfast · city · Antrim · 1708

   The Roman Catholic priest of Belfast and Derriaghy, Rev. Phelomy O'Hamill, was arrested and imprisoned in Belfast in 1708 by George Macartney. A letter concerning the affair was sent to Joshua Dawson.

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   O'Hamill, the Rev. Phelomy, Roman Catholic priest of Belfast and Derriaghy, arrest and imprisonment of in Belfast, in 1708, by George Macartney, 416 ; letter thereon to Joshua Dawson, 416.

   O'Hara, " Mr. Gray," directed by Venables and Coote, about 1651, to pay £22 to the inhabitants of Belfast as a relief to the burden of their cesses, 212.

   Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn

   As the companion tells it

   In 1708, Belfast saw the arrest and imprisonment of the Reverend Phelomy O'Hamill, the Roman Catholic priest of Belfast and Derriaghy. George Macartney carried out the arrest. A letter concerning the affair was sent to Joshua Dawson.

10. Capture of Sir Brian O'Neill in Belfast, 1574

    near Belfast · city · Antrim · 1574

    The author notes a reference by Froude to the disastrous capture of Sir Brian O'Neill in Belfast in 1574, correcting the claim that the town had walls at that time, since Belfast was never in fact walled.

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    1 Mr. Froude, in his account of the capture of Sir Brian O'Neill, with all its disastrous accompaniments, in Belfast in 1574, mentions "the walls of the town." This is an error, but not one affecting the author's comments. Belfast was never walled, and the matter is but referred to here to state that fact.

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 49

    As the companion tells it

    In 1574, Sir Brian O'Neill was captured in Belfast, with what the source calls its disastrous accompaniments. The historian Froude wrote of the walls of the town, but Belfast was never walled. The capture stands, the walls do not.

11. Drowning in the Dock opposite Prince's Street

    near Prince's Street · street · Kerry · 1801

    A man drowned in the dock opposite Prince's Street around 1801, suggesting the protecting chains meant to prevent such accidents were either ineffective or never installed. The site is now solid, paved ground.

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    This may refer to the final closing of the river in High Street, the taking away of the old arch or bridge, and replacing it by another of better form. Some old persons have told us, certainly many years since, that they remembered the river still open, and flowing a clear stream from Bridge Street to the Dock. About the same time the drowning of a man is reported as having taken place in the dock opposite Prince's Street, so that the protecting chains were either ineffectual or not put up at aU. The space opposite Prince's Street, where the dock was, is now solid, well paved ground.

    " To be let, a House, No. 34, Castle Street, with a most elegant garden adjoining the premises, with an abundant supply of

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 381

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere about Prince's Street, a man drowned in the dock here around 1801. The protecting chains meant to stop such accidents were either ineffectual or never put up. Old people recalled the river still open in those days, flowing a clear stream from Bridge Street to the Dock. Where the dock once stood opposite Prince's Street, there is now solid, well paved ground.

12. Great bands of depredators plague Belfast in winter

    near Belfast · city · Antrim · 1805

    During the winter of 1805-1806, large bands of depredators were active in the town, committing numerous nightly burglaries against many named victims.

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    Great bands of depredators were in the town this winter. Numerous names are mentioned of those who suffered from their nightly burglaries.

    Valentine Joyce, a Belfast merchant, died in February, 1805. The account of his funeral, as a trait of the customs of Belfast when still feeling the semi-military spirit, is worth preserving. " He was escorted, on Sunday, to the place of interment by the Belfast Cavalry, of which he was a member, the merchants, infantry, and volunteer corps, and buried with military honours."

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 383

    As the companion tells it

    Belfast in the winter of 1805 and 1806 was troubled by great bands of depredators. Nightly burglaries struck many people in the town, though the record gives only the fact and no names of those who suffered. That February, Valentine Joyce, a Belfast merchant, died. He was buried on a Sunday, escorted to the place of interment by the Belfast Cavalry, of which he was a member, along with the merchants, infantry, and volunteer corps, and buried with military honours.

13. Monro's forces besiege Charlemont before the Cessation

    near Charlemont · village · Armagh · 1643

    Colonel Chichester's regiment was stationed before Charlemont when news arrived of the 1643 Cessation, and it continued in the field longer than most other units, according to the Parliamentary Commissioners' report.

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    " And though we take not upon us to excuse or extenuate any of the miscarriages of Colonel Chichester, yet as anything is suggested to fortify the reason of detaining Belfast (so properly and entirelj'- belonging to the disposal of the Parliament of England), ^ we conceive it our parts to endeavour the rectifying of any mistake in that kind, and rest assured that whatever consef{uence is drawn from the reports of Colonel Chichester agreeing to the Cessation with the Irish rebels contrary to the Declaration of the Parliament of England is so fully known to be ill grounded, that nothing is more manifest than that his Regiment was one of those that were before Charlemont when the news of the Cessation came to that army ; that they continued with the longest that time in the field, and that he sent on all occasions after that time part of his Regiment with the other forces, when they went abroad, partaking also in the dividend of the Cattle gotten from the Rebels, as others did who attended that service. And all this was constantly done after the Cessation ; ^ and until the town of Belfast was possessed by Major General Monro, Col. Chichester being then only permitted to stay in the Castle with one hundred of his regiment and the rest of them at that time designed quarters in the parts near the town. And truly though Col. Chichester had submitted to the Cessation contrary to the directions of Parliament, yet why he should be therefore conceived as one that is in the condition of an Irish Rebel, and so to bring the place taken from him within the compass of

    ^ It will be perceived, from these and other expressions throughout the document, that this Report of the English Commissioners was made at a time subsequent to the event ; in feet, as will afterwards appear, when the English Parliament desired to get Belfast into their hands, which the Scotch persistently refused. The Report is introduced in this place as it more naturally belongs to the preceding narrative of the surjjrisal of Belfast, and is in reality a continuation of the story.

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn

    As the companion tells it

    Charlemont is a village on this road. In 1643, Colonel Chichester's regiment was stationed before Charlemont, besieging the place, when word reached the army of the Cessation. That was an agreed halt to the fighting. His regiment stayed in the field longer than any other unit. After the Cessation, Chichester continued sending part of his regiment out with the other forces whenever they went abroad, and they took their share of the cattle gotten from the rebels, as the others did who attended that service. All of this was done constantly, the Parliamentary Commissioners say, until the town of Belfast was possessed by Major General Monro. Chichester was then permitted to stay in the Castle with 100 of his regiment, while the rest were assigned quarters in the parts near the town. The Commissioners would not excuse or extenuate any of Chichester's miscarriages, but they wrote to rectify what they called mistakes. They argued that any consequence drawn from reports of Chichester agreeing to the Cessation contrary to the Declaration of the Parliament of England was ill grounded. Nothing, they said, was more manifest than that his regiment was before Charlemont when the news came, and that they continued the longest in the field. The report was made after these events, when the English Parliament desired to get Belfast into their hands, which the Scots persistently refused.

14. Oldest gravestone in Carnmoney churchyard, dated 1692

    Carnmoney · townland · Antrim · 1692

    A tradition connects the Houston family to the parish of Carnmoney, corroborated by the very oldest gravestone in the churchyard there, which commemorates the death of a Mr. Houston in 1692. The Houston name remained common in the parish afterward.

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    The elder Mr. Houston, father of Mr. John Holmes Houston, married Miss Holmes. We have been told by many persons — we know not how truly — that this Mr. Houston belonged to the parish of Carnmoney, and for corroboration of this statement we found that the very oldest gravestone in the churchyard there commemorates the decease of a Mr. Houston, who died in 1692. The name is yet common in the parish. Mr. John Holmes Houston, we have been informed, went to Dublin in early life, and acquired much wealth. It must have been in very early life, as in the year 1790, when he could not have

    220 IIISTOEY OF BELFAST.

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 453

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere around here is Carnmoney churchyard, where the oldest stone marks the death of a Mr. Houston in 1692. The book says many people claimed an elder Mr. Houston — father of John Holmes Houston — belonged to this parish, though the author could not say how truly. The gravestone is offered as corroboration. After that, the Houston name remained common here. John Holmes Houston went to Dublin in early life, they were told, and acquired much wealth. It must have been very early life indeed, for in 1790, when he could not have been old.

15. Oldest Tombstone in Shankill Graveyard

    near Shankill · parish · Antrim · 1689

    The oldest surviving tombstone in the old Shankill churchyard records the death of Homer Jackson in 1689, marking it as the sole datable monument of antiquity remaining at the site.

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    * No vestige now remains of the old chui'ch of Shankill. A large mound alone marks the spot on which it stood. The Font is still in the graveyard ; it is a rude block of stone not less than three feet in length, and of proportionate thickness. The cavity or basin for the water is also very large. If the stone has ever served for a font at all — as tradition avers, and in which general opinion concui's — no object, either sacred or profane, could have been formed more likely to last for ever. There is no other monument of antiquity in the graveyard ; the oldest tombstone, even, is one recording the death of Homer Jackson 8th April, 1689.

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 177

    As the companion tells it

    As the road takes you through Shankill, the old church is gone. Only a large mound marks where it stood. A font still lies in the graveyard, a rough block of stone over 3 feet long, with a large basin for water. Tradition says it served as a font, and most agree. No other monument of antiquity remains. The oldest tombstone records the death of Homer Jackson on the 8th of April, 1689.

16. Patrick Adair Desires Burial in Belfast

    near Belfast · city · Antrim · 1695

    In his will dated 1695, Patrick Adair, the eminent Presbyterian minister of Belfast, expressed his desire to be buried in the town where he had served for twenty years.

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    " It is disappointing to lind the wills of these two eminent and successive Belfast ministers, Adair and M' Bride, so devoid of interest, containing no hint of the trials they had passed through, or the eventful history of the times. Enclosed in Patrick Adair's will is a notice that it was lost for 100 years, as it is known that his Narrative was . To his name Adair appends the letters ' ' Clk. , " indicating a title used by the Established clergy only. He desires to be buried in Belfast. He beqiieaths to his wife the full interest of £400 in the Earl of Donegall's hands, and the half of his furniture and plate ; the other half to his three sons. He leaves the half of his books to his son William ; "out of the other half I leave to my wife such a number of practical books for her own use as she, with consent of the rest of the Executors, shall think meet to choose ; " also to his daughter Ellen " some practical books."

    Victor Ferguson is one of the witnesses to this will, which is dated 1695.

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn

    As the companion tells it

    In 1695, in Belfast, a Presbyterian minister named Patrick Adair made his will. He had served the town for twenty years, and he desired to be buried in it. His will is a quiet document. The history that preserves it calls it disappointing, devoid of interest, containing no hint of the trials he had passed through or the eventful history of the times. The will itself had been lost for 100 years, as his Narrative was known to have been. To his name Adair appended the letters "Clk.," a title used by the Established clergy only. He bequeathed to his wife the full interest of £400 in the Earl of Donegall's hands, and half of his furniture and plate. The other half went to his three sons. He left half of his books to his son William. "Out of the other half I leave to my wife such a number of practical books for her own use as she, with consent of the rest of the Executors, shall think meet to choose." To his daughter Ellen he left "some practical books." Victor Ferguson was one of the witnesses to this will.

17. Persecution of John M'Bride of Belfast for his opinions

    near Belfast · city · Antrim

    Dr Victor Ferguson, an army surgeon and ancestor of the Ferguson family, defended John M'Bride of Belfast when he was persecuted for his religious opinions, as recorded in Dr Kirkpatrick's work on Presbyterian Loyalty.

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    The Fergusox Family. — The family of Ferguson is one of the very few in Belfast who have legitimate claims to a long standing in it. The late John Francis Ferguson informed the writer that, so far as he knew, the first of them who came to this country was an army surgeon to the forces of William the Third. If so, he was most probably the Dr. Victor Ferguson who appears, in Dr. Kirkpatrick's work of Presbyterian Loyalty, in a conspicuous and honourable light as a defender of John M'Bride of Belfast when persecuted for his opinions, and otherwise as an advocate of liberality and of the opinions held by the Belfast Society. This Dr. Victor Ferguson is claimed indeed as the direct ancestor of the late Mr. Ferguson. His son was also a medical man, but connected also with the linen business, in which he made great improvements. He lived in the last century. His son was John S. Ferguson, who was a still more extensive linen merchant.

    Mr. John S. Ferguson, at the beginning of this century, was

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn

    As the companion tells it

    Belfast has long been home to the Ferguson family, one of the few with legitimate claims to a long standing in the town. The late John Francis Ferguson said that the first of them who came to this country was an army surgeon to the forces of William the Third. He was most probably Dr Victor Ferguson, who appears in Dr Kirkpatrick's work on Presbyterian Loyalty in a conspicuous and honourable light, as a defender of John M'Bride of Belfast when M'Bride was persecuted for his opinions. Dr Victor Ferguson was also an advocate of liberality and of the opinions held by the Belfast Society. He is claimed as the direct ancestor of the late Mr Ferguson. His son was also a medical man, but was connected with the linen business as well, and he made great improvements in it. He lived in the last century. His son was John S. Ferguson, a still more extensive linen merchant.

18. Private Night Burial of Samuel Haliday

    near Belfast · city · Antrim · 1738

    In 1738 the corpse of the late Mr. Samuel Haliday was interred in the churchyard on a Wednesday night in a private, genteel manner, continuing the practice of night burials among some Belfast families into the following century.

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    ^ This funeral notice occurs in 173S — "On Wednesday night last interred in the Church yard in a private geuteel manner the corpse of the late Mr. Samuel Haliday."

    This practice of night-burying among some Belfast families reached into the present centurj-.

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 280

    As the companion tells it

    Belfast has an older custom of burying at night. In 1738, the corpse of the late Mr. Samuel Haliday was interred in the churchyard on a Wednesday night, in what the notice called a private, genteel manner. This practice of night-burial among some Belfast families carried on into the following century.

19. John M'Bride flees Belfast for Scotland

    near Belfast · city · Antrim

    John M'Bride, successor to Patrick Adair as Presbyterian minister in Belfast, was forced to flee to Scotland because of his political opinions, illustrating the dangers faced by dissenting clergy.

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    M'Bride, John, succeeds Patrick Adair as minister of the Presbyterian Congregation in Belfast, 403 ; his picture still to be seen in the vestry, 404 ; had to fly to Scotland on account of political opinions, 404.

    M'Cracken, Henry Joy, notice of, 665.

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 374

    As the companion tells it

    Belfast was where John M'Bride served as Presbyterian minister, succeeding Patrick Adair. His picture was still to be seen in the vestry. He had to fly to Scotland on account of his political opinions.

20. Cairns family tombstones in Carnmoney burying-ground

    Carnmoney · townland · Antrim · 1775–1844

    The earliest tombstone found in the burying-ground attached to Carnmoney Parish Church records the death of William Cairns in 1775 and his wife Agnes in 1785. A separate railed enclosure elsewhere in the graveyard holds a monument to a later William Cairns (d.1844) and his wife Rose Ann Cairns (d.1822), the parents of Earl Cairns.

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    The first in rank is Earl Cairns. His family was long established in the Parish of Carnmoney, about three miles from Belfast. The earliest tombstone that has been found in the romantic and beautiful burying-ground attached to the Parish Church records the death of William Cairns in 1775, and of his wife Agnes in 1785. Then in another part of the buryingground, a considerable distance from the place in which this stone lies, is a railed enclosure, in which is a monument to the memory of William Cairns, who died in 1844, aged 55 years, and his wife, Eose Ann Cairns, who died in 1822, aged 37 years. These two were the father and mother of Earl Cairns. There would seem to have been a generation lapsed or omitted in this tombstone history, there being no monument discovered to the memory of Hugh Cairns and Nathan Cairns, who, we have been informed, were brothers, and both noted members of the family. They may have been the children of the two named on the first tombstone. Nathan was the father of William Cairns, who died as above noticed in 1844, and consequently grandfather of Earl Cairns.

    Earl Cairns was born in Donegall Place, Belfast, in December, 1819, which was the temporary abode of his parents during the winter of 1819-20, their usual residence at this time being Ptushpark, on the Carrickfergus Eoad. The Earl was baptised in Carnmoney Church, on the 11th February, 1820, by Mr.

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 416

    As the companion tells it

    Close to Carnmoney, the burying-ground attached to the parish church holds the earliest tombstone that has been found there. It records the death of William Cairns in 1775, and of his wife Agnes in 1785. In another part of the same burying-ground, a railed enclosure holds a monument to a later William Cairns, who died in 1844 aged 55, and his wife Rose Ann Cairns, who died in 1822 aged 37. These two were the father and mother of Earl Cairns. There would seem to be a generation lapsed or omitted in this tombstone history. No monument has been discovered to the memory of Hugh Cairns and Nathan Cairns, who were brothers and both noted members of the family. They may have been the children of the two named on the first tombstone. Nathan was the father of William Cairns who died in 1844, and consequently grandfather of Earl Cairns. Earl Cairns was born in Donegall Place, Belfast, in December 1819, which was the temporary abode of his parents during the winter of 1819 to 1820. Their usual residence at this time was Bushpark, on the Carrickfergus Road. He was baptised in Carnmoney Church on the 11th of February 1820.

21. Death of Dr. Maclaine, native of the North of Ireland educated in Belfast

    near Belfast · city · Antrim · 1806

    Dr. Maclaine died at Bath in 1806 at the age of eighty-two; a lengthy obituary noted he had spent his youth in Belfast and formed lasting attachments there, including with Dr. Haliday, before leaving for Holland around 1745.

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    1806. — Dr. Maclaine died at Bath this year. There is a lengthened notice of him in the paper of 11th January, 1805, signed J. (probably Joy). He says — " Dr. Maclaine was a native of the North of Ireland, and educated for a Presbyterian minister. The season of his youth was spent in Belfast, where he was long remembered with delight by a numerous circle, now nearly extinct. He there formed those early attachments which make the longest impression . . . and among the first was that for the beloved and revered Dr. Haliday. About the year 1745, when in his 22nd year, he was invited to Holland to take the pastoral charge of the English Church at the Hague. . . His reply to Soame Jenyns was received in England with the respect it deserved, and a volume of his sermons addressed to his own flock was equally esteemed. His great work, however, was the translation of Mosheims Ecclesiastical History, for which he received most unbounded praise — no doubt quite deserved." But there is no specific disclosure about his occupation in Belfast. He was eighty-two, and must have lived a long while in Bath ; unless this sentence can be taken as a Belfast recollection, there is no other. " After the various scenes of a life protracted till his 82nd year, an absence of half a century neither diminished his love for the friends he had left behind him in Ireland, nor his delight in recalling to memory the spots endeared by early acquaintance." He merely says that he never expected to revisit his native land and the scenes of his youth, but was shocked at the rebellion and the disorders in the country, &c.

    1804-1806.] SUNDAY TRAFFIC FORBIDDEN. 51

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 383

    As the companion tells it

    Belfast is the city this road passes through, and it is where a man called Dr. Maclaine spent the season of his youth. He died at Bath in 1806, at the age of 82. A long obituary appeared in the paper on the 11th of January, 1805, signed J., probably Joy. It says Maclaine was a native of the North of Ireland and was educated for a Presbyterian minister. His youth was spent in Belfast, where he was long remembered with delight by a numerous circle, now nearly extinct. He formed early attachments there, and among the first was his feeling for the beloved and revered Dr. Haliday. About the year 1745, when he was in his 22nd year, he was invited to Holland to take the pastoral charge of the English Church at the Hague. His reply to Soame Jenyns was received in England with the respect it deserved, and a volume of his sermons addressed to his own flock was equally esteemed. His great work was the translation of Mosheim's Ecclesiastical History, for which he received unbounded praise, no doubt quite deserved. After the various scenes of a life protracted to his 82nd year, an absence of half a century neither diminished his love for the friends he had left behind in Ireland, nor his delight in recalling the spots endeared by early acquaintance. He said he never expected to revisit his native land and the scenes of his youth, but was shocked at the rebellion and the disorders in the country.

22. Death of Robert Gemmill in the Belfast dock

    near Belfast · city · Antrim · 1808

    Robert Gemmill, a Scottish native active in the cotton and shipping trades, lost his life this year after falling between the quay and a ship in the dock. No members of his family remained in Belfast at the time of writing.

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    liobert Gemmill lost his life this year in consequence of falling between the quay and a ship in the dock. He was a native of Scotland, and active in the cotton and shipping trades, but there are none of this family now in Belfast.

    Madame Tussaud's famous Wax Works were exhibited at No. 92, High Street.

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn

    As the companion tells it

    Belfast, 1808. Robert Gemmill, a Scot, died here after falling between the quay and a ship in the dock. He had been active in the cotton and shipping trades. By the time of writing, none of his family remained in Belfast.

23. Grimshaw family graves and inscriptions at Carnmoney

    Carnmoney · townland · Antrim · 1777–1805

    Nicholas Grimshaw, founder of Whitehouse's cotton industry, died in 1805 and was buried at Carnmoney; a nearby gravestone records another Nicholas Grimshaw who died in 1777. The inscriptions on both stones are transcribed in full, describing the family's burial enclosure.

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    On the other stone we read — " Here rest the remains of Nicholas Grimshaw, Esq., of Whitehouse, in this parish, who departed this life, 28th April, 1805, aged 57 years."

    214 HISTORY OF BELFAST.

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 450

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere close to Carnmoney, two stones mark the Grimshaw family burial ground. Nicholas Grimshaw founded Whitehouse's cotton industry. He died 28 April 1805, aged 57. His stone reads: 'Here rest the remains of Nicholas Grimshaw, Esq., of Whitehouse, in this parish, who departed this life, 28th April, 1805, aged 57 years.' Another Nicholas Grimshaw died in 1777.

24. O'Mullan buried at Lambeg with surviving tombstone

    near Lambeg · town · Antrim · 1733

    Rev. John O'Mullan, parish priest from 1733, a native of Ballywillwill in the parish of Kilmegan, County Down, was buried at Lambeg, where his tombstone still remained at time of writing.

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    "The Eev. Pheloray O'Hamill was the Parish Priest of Belfast, Derriaghy, and Drum, the latter meaning the parishes of Drumbo and Drumbeg. He was registered at Carrickfergus 12 July, 1704, his sureties, according to the Act, being Conway Courtney of Aghalee, and Hugh Hamill of Carrickfergus, in £50 each. The return states he resided at Derriaghy, and received orders in 1677 from Dr. Oliver Plunkett, the titular Primate. The date of his death is not known, but his successor was the Rev. Mr. Magee, traditionally stated to have been Curate and Parish Priest for Fifty Years. He was succeeded in 1733 by the Rev. John O'Mullan, a native of Ballywillwill, in the parish of Kilmegan, County of Down. He was buried in Lambeg, where his tombstone still remains. He was succeeded in 1772 by the Rev. Hugh O'Donnell, a native of Glenarm. In August, 1812, Mr. O'Donnell resigned, and died December, 1813. On his resignation, the then Bishop, Dr. Patrick M'Mullan, separated Belfast from Derriaghy ; to the latter appointing the Rev. Mr. M'Quoid, and to Belfast and its extensive district, as far as Ballyclare, the Rev. WiUiam Crolly, Professor of Logic, Metaphysics, and Ethics, and who was formally instituted in November, 1812, taking with him as his curate the Rev. Bernard M'Cauley, afterwards Vicar-General and Parish Priest of Downpatrick. Dr. Crolly continued Parish Priest of Belfast for thirteen years, and in 1824 was elected Bishop of Down and Connor by the suifrages of his brother clergymen, and was consecrated in Belfast 1st May. In 1825 he made Belfast instead of Downpatrick the mensal parish of the diocese, which it still continues to be."

    This narrative is brought down to a later period than those of the other religious bodies of Belfast, but this is excusable ; it is derived from a trustworthy source,^ and is but very brief. The history of the Roman Catholics in the town has hitherto been less known or inquired after than those of religious bodies at one time so much more numerous and influential. To the Catholic Church history of Belfast, as communicated in the foregoing

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 203

    As the companion tells it

    The road passes near the town of Lambeg, in Antrim. A parish priest named the Reverend John O'Mullan was buried there, and his tombstone still remained at the time this was written. O'Mullan was a native of Ballywillwill, in the parish of Kilmegan, County Down. He came to his position in 1733, succeeding the Reverend Mr. Magee, who was traditionally stated to have been curate and parish priest for fifty years. Before Magee came the Reverend Pheloray O'Hamill, parish priest of Belfast, Derriaghy, and Drum, the latter meaning the parishes of Drumbo and Drumbeg. O'Hamill was registered at Carrickfergus on 12 July 1704, his sureties being Conway Courtney of Aghalee and Hugh Hamill of Carrickfergus, in 50 pounds each. The return stated he resided at Derriaghy and received orders in 1677 from Dr. Oliver Plunkett, the titular Primate. The date of his death is not known. O'Mullan was himself succeeded in 1772 by the Reverend Hugh O'Donnell, a native of Glenarm. In August 1812, O'Donnell resigned, and he died in December 1813. On his resignation, the then bishop, Dr. Patrick M'Mullan, separated Belfast from Derriaghy. To Derriaghy he appointed the Reverend Mr. M'Quoid, and to Belfast and its extensive district, as far as Ballyclare, the Reverend William Crolly, Professor of Logic, Metaphysics, and Ethics. Crolly was formally instituted in November 1812, taking with him as his curate the Reverend Bernard M'Cauley, afterwards Vicar-General and Parish Priest of Downpatrick. Crolly continued as parish priest of Belfast for 13 years. In 1824 he was elected Bishop of Down and Connor by the suffrages of his brother clergymen, and consecrated in Belfast on 1 May. In 1825 he made Belfast instead of Downpatrick the mensal parish of the diocese, which it still continues to be.

25. Only One Funeral Recorded to Shankill Graveyard

    near Shankill · parish · Antrim · 1712–1736

    The Burial Registry shows that of the many Belfast funerals recorded, only one funeral is noted as going to the Shankill graveyard, with most town residents interred in the High Street churchyard instead.

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    only one funeral found its way to Shankill. Many of the poorer classes niust have been carried to that sacred ground ; all were not laid in the old graveyard of the town, but the certainty is that the great majority and the most important persons were. In the Parish Eegistry in St. Anne's Church from 1745 onwards the burials in Shankill are numerous.

    Besides its interest as a Funeral Register, the book contains many notes arising from the nature of its contents, and requiring at least a passing remark. Such items as the following occur : — "Novr 3, 1717. Received of cash from Mr. Sam^ Smith from the Executors of my lA Mountalexander on account of a Cloake that a piece was torn out of at his ffuneral 5s." " Paid Mr. Eichard Ashmore for Two New Larg Cloke Bagis 8s. l|d." " Paid Alexr Bigger for caring (carrying) the Clokes and Mar. Cloath to Newtown to Mr. Marss ffuneral 2s. Mr. Gamble was to be buried the same night that they cald for them."^ " Paid Charles Eamage for bringing 3 Silver Cupes from Dublin 2s. 6d." These are examples of the miscellaneous entries. Burials at night were practised in Belfast in 1717 ; and though a goldsmith was an inhabitant of the town, his skill did not recommend him as a fabricator of silver cups.

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 280

    As the companion tells it

    The road takes you through the parish of Shankill. Between 1712 and 1736 the Belfast burial registry was kept, and in all those years only one funeral was recorded as going to the Shankill graveyard. Most townspeople were laid in the old churchyard of the town instead. The writer notes that many of the poorer classes must have been carried to Shankill, but the great majority and the most important persons went to the town graveyard. Later, in the parish registry at Saint Anne's Church from 1745 onwards, burials at Shankill become numerous. The funeral book held other curious entries. In November 1717, money was received from Mr. Sam Smith, from the executors of Lord Mountalexander, for a cloak that had a piece torn out of it at his funeral. Mr. Richard Ashmore was paid for two new large cloak bags. Alexander Bigger was paid for carrying the cloaks and mourning cloth to Newtown for Mr. Mars's funeral, and Mr. Gamble was to be buried the same night they called for them. Charles Ramage was paid for bringing three silver cups from Dublin. Burials at night were practised in Belfast in 1717, and though a goldsmith lived in the town, his skill did not recommend him as a maker of silver cups.

26. Sinclair Kelburn arrested over United Irishmen links

    near Belfast · city · Antrim

    Sinclair Kelburn, colleague and successor to Rev. William Laird in the Third Presbyterian Congregation of Belfast, was arrested on suspicion of complicity with the United Irishmen.

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    successor to the Rev. William Laird in the Third Presbyterian Congregation, Belfast, 412 ; arrested for supposed complicity with the United Irishmen, 413.

    Kennedy, Gilbert, succeeds Dr. Kirkpatrick as minister to the Second Presbyterian Congregation in 1744, 409.

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 373

    As the companion tells it

    Belfast. Sinclair Kelburn succeeded the Reverend William Laird in the Third Presbyterian Congregation here. He was arrested for supposed complicity with the United Irishmen.

27. Death of Stewart Banks, former Sovereign of Belfast

    Castle Street · street · Roscommon · 1802

    Stewart Banks died in April 1802 after a well-spent life of 77 years; he had previously served as Sovereign of Belfast in 1755. His property in Castle Street, Barrack Street, and Lettuce Lane was later sold.

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    " April, 1802. On Thursday evening, after a well spent life of 77 years, died Stewart Banks." No information is given as to his personal history, but very warm praises of his life and conduct. He had been Sovereign of Belfast in 1755.

    At a dinner given to Mr. Skeffington on the 16th of April, 1802, one of the toasts was, " A happy and speedy improvement to the lately discovered Colliery on the Marquis of Donegall's Estate." Where was this colliery ? The language would imply that it was then at work, and not altogether one of those abortive attempts to discover coal in the vicinity of this town.

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 381

    As the companion tells it

    Castle Street, where Stewart Banks once held property. Banks died in April 1802, on a Thursday evening, after what the record calls a well spent life of 77 years. He had served as Sovereign of Belfast in 1755. No detail of his personal history survives, only warm praise of his life and conduct. His property on Castle Street, Barrack Street, and Lettuce Lane was later sold.

28. Famine in Belfast in 1799

    near Belfast · city · Antrim · 1799

    The index records a famine affecting Belfast in 1799, with associated relief efforts such as a public soup kitchen and aid to the distressed, as detailed elsewhere in the book.

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    Famine in Belfast in 1799, 14. Famine, aid to distressed during the,

    17. Ferguson family, biography of, 168. Ferguson, Dr. Victor, 168; Will of,

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 460

    As the companion tells it

    Belfast in 1799 saw famine. The town organized aid to the distressed during that year of hunger.

29. Fever Hospital and Dispensary in Smithfield

    Smithfield · site · Limerick · 1804

    The Fever Hospital and Dispensary located in Smithfield were growing in importance year by year, with yearly expenditure reaching £254 in 1804, reflecting concerns about disease in the town.

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    The Fever Hospital and Dispensary in Smithfield were advancing yearly in importance. Long accounts of their proceedings appear at intervals. Their yearly expenditure amounted to £254 in 1804. The Police Committee are entitled to the thanks of the community for the improvements about to be carried into effect, of covering in a great part of the river which encroaches on High Street. They advertised for con-

    46 HISTORY OF BELFAST. [1804-1806.

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 383

    As the companion tells it

    A fever hospital and dispensary, the Fever Hospital and Dispensary in Smithfield, stood in Smithfield, Limerick. It was advancing yearly in importance, and long accounts of its proceedings appeared at intervals. Its yearly expenditure amounted to 254 pounds in 1804. The Police Committee earned the community's thanks for improvements about to be carried into effect, covering in a great part of the river which encroaches on High Street.

30. Collapse of Seven Arches of the Long Bridge

    near Belfast · city · Antrim · 1692

    It is recorded that seven arches of the old Long Bridge at Belfast fell in 1692, not long after its completion, an event possibly related to the near-fatal incident involving Abernethy.

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    It is stated in Joijs MSS. and elsewhere that seven arches of the old Long Bridge fell in 1692, not long after its completion. Could this have been the same occurrence as that which was so nearly proving fatal to Mr. Abernethy ? The years do not correspond.

    1 The Narrative is known, or should be known, to all Presbyterians. The extent to which Dr. Reid's more ample history is indebted to it is acknowledged by himself.

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn

    As the companion tells it

    Belfast, in 1692. Seven arches of the old Long Bridge fell, not long after the bridge was completed. The records raise a question: could this have been the same event that so nearly proved fatal to Mr. Abernethy? The years do not correspond, and the matter is left unsettled.

31. Death of John Brown, Sovereign of Belfast, in office

    near Belfast · city · Antrim · 1801

    John Brown, the Sovereign of Belfast, died in office on 12th November 1801 at the age of 51. His death marked the end of his civic tenure over the town.

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    On 12th November, 1801, John Brown, the Sovereign of Belfast, died in office, in his 51st year. Amyas Griffith, of Belfast notoriety, frequently mentioned in the first volume of this work, died in September, 1801.

    In an advertisement of what is called the largest soap manufactory in Ireland, situated in Waring Street, it is said that the opening from Waring Street to Chichester Quay is now nearly completed.

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 381

    As the companion tells it

    Belfast lost its Sovereign on the 12th of November 1801. John Brown died in office, in his 51st year. The same year, Amyas Griffith, of Belfast notoriety, died in September. An advertisement from the time names the largest soap manufactory in Ireland, situated in Waring Street, and says the opening from Waring Street to Chichester Quay is nearly completed.

32. Hugh Cairns's missing burial site at Carnmoney

    Carnmoney · townland · Antrim · 1808–1811

    Although Hugh Cairns was the first of his family to hold Parkmount and lived there twelve years, no memorial marking his burial place has been found in Carnmoney graveyard. His successor Nathan Cairns died in Dublin and was interred in the cemetery of Mary's Abbey.

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    From the preceding narrative it appears that Hugh Cairns, Esq., was the first of his family who possessed Parkmount, and yet it is singular that there is no place in Carnmoney graveyard noting the burial-place of Hugh. He lived in Parkmount for 12 years, and at his death left a handsome bequest to the Old Poor House. The next possessor was Nathan, as one who was intimate with him has assured us that he visited the said Nathan there in 1811. He died in Dublin, and was interred in the cemetery of Mary's Abbey in that city.

    Parkmount was finally sold, in 1828 or 1829, to John M'Neill, Esq.. D.L., Banker of Belfast, in whose family it now

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 418

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere around here, in the graveyard at Carnmoney, there is no memorial marking the burial-place of Hugh Cairns. He was the first of his family to hold Parkmount, and he lived there for 12 years. At his death he left a handsome bequest to the Old Poor House. Yet nothing in the graveyard notes where he was laid. The next to hold Parkmount was Nathan Cairns. A man who knew Nathan has assured us he visited him there in 1811. Nathan died in Dublin, and was buried in the cemetery of Mary's Abbey in that city. Parkmount was finally sold, in 1828 or 1829, to John M'Neill, a banker of Belfast, and it remains in that family.

33. John Moore the baker's 1671 church burial with full rites

    near Belfast · city · Antrim · 1671

    John Moore, a baker, specified in his 1671 will that he wished to be buried in the church of Belfast with all rights and ceremonies belonging to a proper Christian burial.

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    There are numerous other wills of Burgesses, and some of Sovereigns of Belfast, obtainable. They are generally tame and commonplace, very many of them containing the injunction to be buried in the church or churchyard of Belfast. Roger Leathes, tanner, to be more explicit, desires to be laid " on y^ east side of y^ southe church door ;" John Moore, a baker (1671), to be buried in the church of Belfast " with all rights and Ceremonys thereunto belonging." Vain endeavour to preserve from devouring time the fleeting name ! Such bones and skulls as were not scattered more than sixty years ago were for the most part promiscuously mingled, gentle and simple alike, in one place of deposit. The ground which in their living days was so dear to the dead occupants — some of them expressing in their wills their desire to be buried with their ancestors — and which was expected to continue in sepulchral seclusion for ever, is now as devoid of any emblem of a venerable receptacle of death as the common on the heath.

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 120

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Belfast, there is a story from 1671 that the old wills tell. John Moore was a baker in this town, and when he made his will that year, he asked to be buried in the church of Belfast, as he put it, with all rights and ceremonies thereunto belonging. He was one of many burgesses and townsfolk who left the same wish, to be laid in the church or churchyard here. Roger Leathes, a tanner, wanted the east side of the south church door. These were people who hoped to rest beside their ancestors, in ground they thought would stay sealed and quiet for ever. But more than 60 years before this history was written, the bones and skulls were scattered or promiscuously mingled together, gentle and simple alike, in one place of deposit. The ground that was so dear to the dead is now as bare of any mark of a grave as the common on the heath.

34. Nathan Cairns buried at Mary's Abbey cemetery, Dublin

    Mary's Abbey · street · Dublin · 1811

    Nathan Cairns, who succeeded to Parkmount after Hugh Cairns, died in Dublin and was interred in the cemetery of Mary's Abbey in that city, as confirmed by an acquaintance who had visited him there in 1811.

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    From the preceding narrative it appears that Hugh Cairns, Esq., was the first of his family who possessed Parkmount, and yet it is singular that there is no place in Carnmoney graveyard noting the burial-place of Hugh. He lived in Parkmount for 12 years, and at his death left a handsome bequest to the Old Poor House. The next possessor was Nathan, as one who was intimate with him has assured us that he visited the said Nathan there in 1811. He died in Dublin, and was interred in the cemetery of Mary's Abbey in that city.

    Parkmount was finally sold, in 1828 or 1829, to John M'Neill, Esq.. D.L., Banker of Belfast, in whose family it now

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 418

    As the companion tells it

    Nathan Cairns is buried at Mary's Abbey cemetery in Dublin. He succeeded Hugh Cairns as possessor of Parkmount. Hugh had been the first of his family to hold Parkmount, living there for 12 years and leaving a handsome bequest to the Old Poor House at his death, though no stone in Carnmoney graveyard marks his burial. Nathan followed him. Someone intimate with Nathan has told us he visited him there in 1811. Nathan died in Dublin and was laid to rest in the cemetery of Mary's Abbey in that city. Parkmount itself was later sold, in 1828 or 1829, to John M'Neill, a banker of Belfast.

35. Old Burying-Ground of Shankill

    near Shankill · parish · Antrim

    The Farset river, rising on Squire's Hill, was noted for its meandering course encircling the old churchyard and burying-place of Shankill, one of the earliest known burial sites in the Belfast area.

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    Of these two small rivers, so peculiarly identified with the ancient topography of Belfast, the Farset rises on Squire's Hill, and in its meandering course encircles the old churchyard and burying-place of Shaukill. The Blackstaff is probably the

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 129

    As the companion tells it

    Through this parish of Shankill runs the Farset, a small river that rises on Squire's Hill. In its meandering course, the Farset encircles the old churchyard and burying-place of Shankill, one of the earliest known burial sites in the Belfast area.

36. Bishop Boyle's persecution of Presbyterians in Down

    near Down · parish · Down

    The index cites an account of Bishop Boyle of Down persecuting Presbyterians, indicating religious persecution connected to the diocese of Down.

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    Boyle, Bishop of Down, persecuting Presbyterians, 196.

    Bradshaw, Robert, 222.

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 460

37. Strafford's persecutions referenced in county Down history

    near Down · parish · Down

    The index references Strafford's persecutions in connection with the same page discussing religious persecution in County Down, linking Lord Strafford's repressive policies to local Presbyterian history.

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    64. Strafford's persecutions, 196. Streets, changes in the, 113. Strike-, 22, 36, 39, 47. Sugar houses, 77. Sunday schools. 94. Sunday traffic, 51.

    Talbot, the actor, 51, 91.

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn

38. Execution of Antonio de Silva

    near Belfast · city · Antrim · 1810

    The index notes the execution of a man named Antonio de Silva, associated with events around 1810 in Belfast. No further narrative detail is given beyond the index citation.

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    Antonio de Silva, execution of. 78.

    Apparatus for execution in 1810, 78.

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 460

39. Execution apparatus erected in Belfast, 1810

    near Belfast · city · Antrim · 1810

    The index references apparatus built for a public execution in Belfast in the year 1810, indicating capital punishment was carried out in the town at this time.

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    Apparatus for execution in 1810, 78.

    Apprentices to business, 87.

    Internet Archive historyoftownofb00benn, Chapter 460