| 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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HERE |
| 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. |
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On
the rocks!...... |
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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. |
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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 |
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Here to
read more |
| 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. |
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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. |
| 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 |
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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. | Click HERE |
| 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 |
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| 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. |
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| 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 |
Click
HERE |
| 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 |
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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. |
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| 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. |
| 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??? |
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| 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. |
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| 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. |
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| 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 |
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| Balbriggan
and District Historical Society Annual Field Trip 2005 Sat.11th June saw the society head off to the hill county of North Roscommon.First port of call was Edgeworthstown Co. Longford.Next we headed to visit the Arigna Mining Experience in Roscommon.Coal mining was carried out in Arigna for 400yrs.The last mine closed in 1990 and it has now been converted to a visitor center.Our guide on the day was ex miner Michael who filled us in on the life and times in the mining business.The next part of the trip took us to Kilronan churchyard to visit the grave of Turlough O Carolin the last of the great Irish Bards.Tony Mc Namara who organised the trip gave us a short talk on Carolan and Jimmy Clery then played a beautiful Irish air to round off our visit to the graveside of Turlough O Carolan.Back on the bus we made our way to the Glen Royal hotel in Maynooth for dinner and where we supped beer before we made our way home to Balbriggan.Well done to Tony and Mary Mc Namara for a great day.Special word of thanks to our driver from Fingal Coaches Danny, you played a blinder.14.06.05 Item 98-05 |
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| Glebe North
1945 to 2005 On Sunday 5th of June Glebe North FC celebrated 60yrs. of football in Balbriggan.During a mass held in their clubhouse all passed members were remembered for their long and loyal service to the club down the years.In the clubhouse that evening the team of 1966 were honoured when chairman Pat Doyle presented each player with a piece of crystal glass.The evening continued late into the night with music by Tandum.Well done to all concerned for a wonderful evening.Click on thumbnail for photos........Photos by Jack Benton and Martin Fanning 13.06.05 Item 97-05 |
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| 1948
School Photo, names please. Not a very good copy of Balbriggan National School boys in about 1948. I recognise Michael Sheridan, Charlie Heron, Johnny Knight among the group .... help .... somebody must know more of these guys. 06.06.05 Item 96-05 Updated with names by Jim Hamilton. |
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| Community
Collage Awards 2005.......... The awards at the cermony were presented to the students with outstanding talents in many different areas.A selected number of teachers including principal Pat Halpin and deputy principal Christine Dunne had the honour of presenting the certificates and awards in various categories.Also present on the day was Jimmy Purcell from Balbriggan Credit Union.The winner of the Student of the year award was Christopher Coates.This perpetual trophy is in memory of the late Paddy Conway and was presented by his daughter Kathleen Fanning.Click on thumbnail to see photos.06.06.05 Item95-05 |
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| Rush
V Downpatrick Nazeer, who works locally with An Post, was Man of the Match in the All Ireland Cricket Cup match between Rush and Downpatrick. Nazeer was to the fore both bowling and later in the day when batting. A player of great competitive instinct who 'reads' the game well, Nazeer is a team captain's delight and a model for young players. Rush were victorious in the match and now we await the clash between The Hills and North County on the Bank Holiday Monday at Milverton. 06.05.05 Item94-05 |
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| Most capped
Irish International – Tommy Caffrey Today we bring you local sporting legend Tommy Caffrey. Tommy is the most capped Irish international in any sport with 151 senior caps for table tennis. We meet up with Tommy and his two amigo’s Oliver Adamson and Brian Finn during a training session in Gormanston college. One of his many great tournaments was the Irish Opens in 1963 which was held in the Town Hall, Balbriggan. Tommy recalls……Click on thumbnail 02.06.05 Item93-05 |
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| The
Draft Heritage Plan. The Draft Heritage Plan for Fingal is now on public display. You are invited to comment on the Draft Plan from now until Tuesday 21st June2005. You can download the Draft Plan from the Council's website at www.fingalcoco.ie or you can request a copy by contacting Gerry Clabby, Heritage Officer on 8905697; or by email: heritage@fingalcoco.ie. Thank You. |
| It's
simply not cricket Joe attended the 45 Over League Semi Final today at The Hills where the home side were hosts to Malahide. In weather more reminiscent of January a nail biting finish saw The Hills victorious by 1 wicket. The game was exciting although very low scoring which might have been as a result of the biting wind and cold conditions. Matt Dwyer ensured the photographer was refreshed (and warmed) by tea and sandwiches which were gratefully accepted. Joe looks forward to a return to The Hills for the match with North Dublin on the Bank Holiday Monday. 31.05.05 Item 92-05 |
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| Dublin
Butterfly House in Fingal. "Harap Farm", is located in the heart of Fingal, not far from Blake's Cross on the old Dublin/Belfast road. Here, in a huge glasshouse, complete with waterfalls, trees, tropical plants you ramble around a tropical environment with hundreds of large Butterflies and Moths flying all round you. A unique experience to see these truly beautiful creatures up close. At times they even land on one's head and its a photographers paradise. For € 5.00, you are treated to a magical experience which children would love. Martin and Tony were there and haven't shut up about it since, Martin in particular. They have their own web site with directions on how to get there. Click HERE to see their site. Tell them you saw the photos on B.net. Click on thumbnail to see the butterflies. 22.05.05 Item 91-05 |
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| Newbridge
House, Biodiversity Day. Tony & Martin headed to Newbridge House where various events were going on. The Falconry was one of the big attractions where Paul Fogarty of the Irish Hawking Club and his staff let the visiting children pose with various birds perched on their arm. Our team members were asked by some to take photographs of the children which they willingly obliged. Heavy showers were the only disappointment of the day. Click on the thumbnail to see the photos.22.05.05 Item 90-05 |
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| North
County Cricket Club. On Saturday 21st. May 2005, Joe, one of the Balbriggan.net team, paid a visit to the new Cricket Academy at Balrothery which lies 2 Km. south of Balbriggan. Click on Thumbnail for more. 22.05.05 Item 89-05 |
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| Chinese
Golden Emperor, What was there in the 1950's. Well, thanks to this photo we have some idea of how it looked half a century ago. The sign above the 4 men seems to say "Turf Accountant" and the shop with the lady standing in the door way has either the name "Wogan" or "Hogan" and is a drapery shop. We love these type of photos so if you have any at home, please do get in touch with us. We thank Martin Fanning for this photo. 20.05.05 Item 88-05 |
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| McLoughlins
Hardware in Old Boathouse. Of course there was never such a shop, we were just playing games. This photo was taken when the boathouse was been used during a film shoot. We think the film was Sweetie Barrett although some thought it was for the RTE drama "The Ambassador". Sorry for any confusion caused, we like to keep you on your toes. 26.03.05 Item57.05 |
| Christo
keeling. Back at the turn of the year we featured Keeling's shop and bar in Bridge St. Balbriggan and we had several positive comments but most especially from a niece of Joe & Christo Keeling. She is Rachel Aspinall from Queensland, Australia. At that time one of the B.net team commented on the fact that Christo was an accomplished jockey and could be seen exercising their racehorse on the streets of the town. Christo decided to enter into the spirit of things and recorded a lovely story about one eventful day in the life of his racing career. We are delighted to share his story with you.Click on thumbnail .26.03.05 Item 56.05 |
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| McLoughlin
Hardware. Thanks again to our friends Benton/Curtis, they have given us this unusual photo of the hardware that used to be in the old Lifeboat House under the arches. We never knew such a shop existed. 23.03.05 Item 55.05 |
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| Chicago
and New Hampshire Photos. We have to admit that we were disappointed with the response we made in looking for photos from around the world of St. Patrick's Day parades. Only two were received, Carol Geary in Chicago and Brian Coffey and Stephen Spellman in manchester, New Hampshire. As usual, click on thumbnail to see the results. 22.03.05 Item 54.05 |
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Everybody has a digital camera these days and so this year we want you to take a Patrick's day photo from wherever you are in the world. Anything Irish, a parade, a green river, get those digitals clicking and we guarantee to publish at least one photo from anyone who emails us one. The Balbriggan parade is also fair game so get those photos to us telling us where they were taken. 15.03.05 Item 52-05 |
| Derham's
on the square. Two photos today, first is of local characters on the square in 1988 and the second is Derham's the Grocer with the delivery bike outside. This photo was taken in 1960 and is from the Benton/Curtis collection. A reminder that we are always on the lookout for photos of Balbriggan or Balbriggan people, if you have some, please contact us. 15.03.05 Item 51-05. |
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| Inside
St. Peter's & Paul's Church. For those of you overseas, you may not be aware that the roof of the church is to be replaced along with some structural changes. The removal of the Gallery, changes to the alter and outside the front of the premises. To record the way the church looks at present, Martin Fanning arranged for the camera club to be allowed to record the church as it is now. Today we bring you 5 photographs.15.03.05 Item 50-05 |
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| Train
Derailment at Balbriggan. August 1989 was the year that this incident happened. We are not aware if there were any fatalities or injuries. If anyone can shed any light as to why it happened, let us know. These photos are courtesy of our friends Benton and Curtis. 13.03.05 Item 49-05 |
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| Balbriggan Girl gets
Rugby call. Sinead has been onto us to say that Ms. Sandra McAleer of 40 Bath Road has been called for the Irish Women's Rugby team for the match on Saturday against France. Well done Sandra, hopefully you will have some photos of the big day and we can post on the web site. 11.03.05 Item 48-05 |
Nora
O'Hara Celebrates her 70th. |
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| Balbriggan
Pioneers 1935. Here is a great photo courtesy of Declan Maguire. It's the Pioneers, the photo was taken in 1935 and Declan has all the names and we will bring same as soon as they arrive. The original is a very large framed photograph hanging on a wall but Declan did a great job in photographing it. Don't forget, we are always on the lookout for old photos. Contact Tony if you have some that would interest our viewers. 10.03.05 Item 46-05 |
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ADD/ADHD
Support Group. |
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| Car
Park Work--Message from Fingal CC. We have received the following statement from Fingal County Council in relation to the work been carried out at the car park. Click on thumbnail to read. 08.03.05 Item 44-05 |
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| New
Roundabout-Aerial View. Following on from our previous item on the new roundabout on the Dublin road, Barry Geraghty has very kindly sent us this aerial photo. The two new roads can be clearly seen with the topmost one eventually to join up with the Skerries road near the county bridge. The other road, bottom right, sweeps around the front of Sonopress. 07.03.05 Item 43-05 |
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| New Roundabout
on Dublin Road. A new Roundabout has appeared midway between Wavin and the Church. Off it are two new roads, one leading up to a new housing estate near Pinewood and in the opposite direction a road over the Bracken river to the left of Sonopress. Hopefully we will get some aerial photos of this part of the town in the coming months. 06.03.05 Item 42-05 |
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| Balbriggan
Signal Box. Unfortunately, this was demolished several years ago for whatever reason. If anyone has any close-ups of it maybe they could contact us. John Maguire found this photo on the net which we hope you enjoy. 04.03.05 item 41-05 Update, Item 38-05 V kenny has some names added. |
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5
Photos from Veronica Kenny. |
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| Ardal
O'Hanlon meets Martin. Father Ted's Dougal, was at the Huntsman recently and was heard asking staff if Martin from the towns web site was in the audience. Before long, the staff found Martin propping up the bar so they carried him to Ardal and Martin duly signed his autograph. Funny old world. 03.03.05 Item 39-05. |
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Veronica
Kenny-Another Photo. |
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| David
Brangan Collection. Photo number 69 from this collection is an unusual one. It looks like a group of bakers or maybe workers from one of the mills in the town. If anyone has any suggestions of who these gentlemen can be, please let us know. 26.02.05 Item 37-05 |
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| Veronica
Kenny---2 more photos. Yesterday we gave you a photo that was kindly given to us by Veronica Kenny and within hours we had all the names. So, lets see how good you are on with today's offering. The first person with all the names wins a personalised email address like joesoap@Balbriggan.net. So get cracking. 26.02.05 Item 36-05. |
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| Part
4: Light a Candle and Say a Prayer. Roger Turner, from Sheffield, but who holidayed in balbriggan for several years in the 50's and 60's has written another account of life in Balbriggan all those years ago. Roger has a real talent for writing and this account is no exception. Roger used to stay with Eileen and Raymond Mckenna in Craobin Park for six weeks at a time. To read his story click on the thumbnail of himself and enjoy. 25.02.05 Item 35.05 |
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| Names
Please. Thanks to Veronica Kenny who kindly dropped in several photos. The first one is late sixties early 70's. We don't have names at the moment so if anyone can help, please do. 25.02.05 Item34-05 Update We now have the names. |
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| Smyco
Factory C1900. We feel it's time to go back to the David Brangan collection and as it's the 200th anniversary of this famous company, we bring you a photo taken inside the factory. 25.02.05 Item33-05. |
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| More
Aerial Photographs. Due to the reaction of the Aerial photos that we published earlier this month, we bring you 3 more. These photos were given to us by photo enthusiast, Barry Geraghty and pilot Barry Christie. We have "Zoomed in" on the photos so you can see more detail. Check out the web site MrBullBar.com if you are interested in aerial photography. Click on thumbnail. 15.02.2005 Item 31.05 |
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| 1942
Photograph. This photograph shows Olive McNally cycling down Dublin Street in 1942, in the background we think is where the Bank of Ireland is now. The photograph was kindly given to us by Sean McNally. 15.02.2005 Item 30.05 |
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| Concert
Cancelled Message from Pete St John. Due to unforseen circumstances it is necessary for me to cancel my concert in the Draiocht Theatre in Blanchardstown on 19th Mar.05 and I wish to apologize for any inconvenience caused. Pete St John. |
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| Mrs
Murtagh. Looking for relatives. Mrs Murtagh had a shop on Hampton street, just beside St. Georges national School. A few years back, the shop was sold, Mrs Murtagh went to a nursing home in Limerick where she subsequently passed away. Tony, from B.net was given over 150 negatives by the builder who was renovating the shop and he is now trying to find and relatives so he can give them their treasured memories. We have scanned 3 of the negatives and bring them to you in case anybody recognise anyone. They are all taken in the early '50's in either Dublin or London. If anyone can give us any information, please do so as we we want to return them to family members. Photographs are precious.07.02.05 Item 29-05 |
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| Various
Photos. Nothing really out of the ordinary with this selection of photos. One of the team took some shots on the way to Ardgillan and one of Skerries from the car park with Rock a Bill also visible.07.02.05 Item 28.05. |
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| Red
Island, Skerries. kathleen lonergan signed the guest book and says she remembers going to Red Island in Skerries and would love to hear from anyone who remembers her. As a little treat to Kathleen, we bring you a post card showing Red Island and one showing the harbour in Skerries. A reminder to all to check the Guest Book regurarly.06.02.05 Item 27-05 |
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| Man
dies in balbriggan Blaze. Full details click HERE |
| Update
on car park work. Thanks for the emails, apparently the working going on is sewage related and not a multi-Storey. |
| Aerial
Photographs of Balbriggan. Barry Geraghty, well known photo enthusiast in the town has kindly given us several aerial photos of Balbriggan. They were taken in January, and because of time allocations, Barry said it turned into a "Rush Job". The flight was organised through Barry Cristie of "Mr Bull Bar" who can be contacted through their web site. MrBullBar.com We bring you two photos today, and more will follow in the coming days. 04.02.05 Item26-05 |
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| Car
park- What's happening? Can anyone shed any light on what's happening at the car park beside the Viaduct. We can only surmise that a multi-storey is being built. If so, parking spaces over the coming months will be a real problem. If you know whats happening, let us know.04.02.05Item 25-05 |
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| Memories
of Balbriggan in the 50’s. Roger Turner has penned another account of his times in balbriggan in the 50's. The way things are going we will have to start up RogerTurner.com. We jest of course and are only too delighted to publish his fascinating accounts of summers in the town. Feel free to contact Roger, his email address is at the end of his account. Click on thumbnail. 02.02.05Item24-05 |
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| 2
STROKE RACING SUPPORTERS CLUB CHAT SHOW. Formerly known as the Gary Dynes Foundation, the re-named '2 Stroke Racing Supporters Club' are holding a Chat Show and Disco in the North County Cricket Club, Balrothery on Friday the 11th of February from 8.30 P.M. Click on thumbnail for more details. 01.02.05 Item23-05. |
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| President
McAleese Visits St Georges School. Last week, following a letter sent by the pupils, President McAleese visited St Georges School, Balbriggan. The president spent an hour talking and listening to the pupils and was even treated to a song in Spanish. A fun time was had by all and and we have some photos of the occasion taken by Tony. 01.02.05 Item22-05. |
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| Photographic
Exhibition. Here are some more photos we took at the photographic Exhibition in Oct. Eddie Guildea, Sean McNally, Kevin Lenehan, and Guss Thompson are here along with Tony from B.net. A reminder that if you have photos with a Balbriggan connection, please contact us.01.02.05 Item21-05 |
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| Selection
of Photos. Because of our relative inactivity over the past few days we have here a selection of photos courtesy of the Benton/Curtis collection. The first is of a storm hitting the harbour at high tide, the second is of Ronnie Drew(The Dubliner's) with some locals and the final one is of Laragh, the big house that once stood in the corner of Hampton St and Church street. 30.01.05 Item20-05. |
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| Canal
Photo. Following on from our article by Roger Turner, Messers Benton/Cutis have come us with this gem of a shot. For those new to the town, a Mill Pond existed behind where John D's to the Credit Union are now. This was known locally as the canal and today's photo shows Fergus & Pauline Benton taken in the early 60's. 26.01.05 Item 19-05 |
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| Seal Release--- After months of care at the Irish Sanctuary in Garristown, 2 young seals were released back to the wild. A huge crowd turned out to witness the occasion. A sunny but cold day swelled the crowds somewhat to a few hundred making it difficult to have a corridor of people down to the water. Tony, Martin and young Ronan were there on behalf of B.net and we bring you some photos today and maybe some more over the coming days. Click on the thumbnail to see the photos and check out the Seal Sanctuary web Site www.irishsealsanctuary.ie 23.01.05 Item 18-05. |  |
| The North Fingal Forum in partnership with the Fingal Volunteer Centre and Co-operation Fingal are please to announce the launch of their joint project “The Volunteer Recruitment Fair” which will take place on Sunday the 30th January in the Sunshine House, Click on thumbnail for more details. 21.01.05 Item17-05 |  |
| Marathon
Women--In training. Jack has asked that this photo be placed on the site. Click on it to enlarge and see if you recognize anyone. The women were either training for the Marathon or the Mini Marathon and the year was either 2003 or 2004. 21.01.05 Item 16-15 |
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| Through
Rose-Tinted Specs Memories of Balbriggan in the 50’s On the 6th of January, Roger Turner sent us a detailed account of his annual trips to Balbriggan from Sheffield. This was a very enjoyable account and it left many eagerly awaiting part two. So it gives us great pleasure to bring you part 2. We have added Rogers email address at the end of his article so feel free to contact and maybe jog his memory so as to provide more memories of Balbriggan. Roger is writing these exclusively for Balbriggan.net.The team sincerely thank Roger for taking the time to share his fond memories of this lovely, friendly little town! We have included Rogers email address at the end of his article so feel free to send your thoughts to Roger. Click HERE to read. |
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| Loreto
Convent Balbriggan Class Reunion-Coming soon. Past pupils of Loreto are currently in the process of arranging a reunion for this summer. Bernie Bisset is seeking help with this venture so anyone willing to help can contact us and we will forward on your details to Bernie. Keep an eye on B.net for more details of the reunion.14.01.05 Item 13-05 |
| Balbriggan
Dress code c1900 close up. This photo is part of the David Brangan Collection and this time we have zoomed in 300% on photo number 43 to show the dress that the locals wore. This is definitely early 20th century and if anyone would like to suggest a decade, please do. This photos was taken on the walkway below the train station with sea banks visible in the background.14.01.05 Item 12-05 |
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| Workers
Reunited. Phil from Balbriggan has sent us a photo of himself along with some friends. Paddy Roberts, Oliver Pickett worked with Phil for many years in George Watts, Engineers, Bridgefoot St. Dublin.13.01.05 Item 11-05 |
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| Pete
St John and Friends. An Evening with Pete St John. One for your diary 2005. Pete St John and Friends will be performing in the Draiocht Theatre in Blanchardstown on March 19th 2005 at 8pm. A limited number of tickets will be available for the night. In Oct 2003 Pete and Friends performed in the Bracken Court Hotel Balbriggan to a packed house and a brilliant night was had by all. If you would like to book tickets for the night in advance please contact Martin at 8413134 or Martin@balbriggan.net for details. 13.01.05 Item 10-05 |
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| Who
could these be and where were the photos taken? We don't know either, but we have several similar photos to these from the David Brangan Collection. David has over a 100 photos in his collection dating back to 1900 with about 15 portraits similar to these. We are almost certain that they are locals so if anyone thinks they can put a names to these two, let us know. We will bring you others in the coming days. 12.01.05 Item 9-05 |
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| More
Photos of Balbriggan from Roger Turner of Sheffield. Another scoop for B.net, this is becoming a bit of a habit. Anyway, Roger has sent us several photos taken in the town in the 1950's. Roger was a regular visitor to the town every summer and has written an account of his yearly sojourn. Click HERE to read part 1. Well done Roger, these are truly great photos. Any additional information on the photos would be appreciated. Click on thumbnail to see his photos. 09.01.05 Item 8-05 |
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| Youth
Club Photo from 1966. A blast from the past.We've got to thank Johnn.y Kenny for this wonderful photo of Balbriggan Youth Club members in 1966 approx Johnny is a native of Balbriggan, now living in Drogheda. We also bring you a photo of Greg and Bernie on their wedding day. 07.01.05 Item 7-05 |
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| From
Sheffield to Balbriggan. Part 1---by Roger Turner. Roger has penned a fascinating account of how he, his sister and mother made the annual trip to Balbriggan in the 50's and 60's. Writing exclusively for Balbriggan.net, Roger has a real talent for writing and we think you will enjoy his account. Can't wait for part 2. Well done Roger. 6/01.05 Item6-05 |
| New
Years Eve in Balbriggan. One of the team happened to be out, on the town new years eve and as usual, Martin had his camera with him. We have three photos here of some of the people Martin met that night. 4.01.05 Item5-05 |
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| Balbriggan
DVD--Interview on LMFM Radio. LMFM (Louth, Meath FM) contacted Tony from B.net to ask why we decided to bring out the DVD, "Balbriggan, Faces & Places". To listen to the 3 minute interview, click on the thumbnail which should open your Windows Media Player. 03.01.05 Item4-05 |
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| Balbriggan
Harbour-Watercolour Effect. We are not sure how this will look on the web, but here goes. One of the team got a nice photo of the boats this summer and over the christmas he changed it so as to give it a watercolour effect. If you can do something similar, send them to us. 01.01.05 Item 3-05 |
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| Recognize
anyone? Here is a nice photo of 3 girls taken on Quay street some years back. We don't have any names but if anyone can put names to the faces please let us know. 01.01.05 Item 2-05 |
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| Rockabill
Photo. As you all know, we are always on the lookout for photos to do with Balbriggan and surrounding areas and we came across this photo on the internet of Rockabill Lighthouse. To learn more about this lighthouse, click on thumbnail. 01.01.05 Item1-05 |
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Sri Lanka Flood Appeal
Management at Super Value have asked if we at balbriggan.net can let people know an appeal to collect €10,000 has started at their shop in Balbriggan. We have all been touched by this terrible happening. All donations will be sent to GOAL in Dun Laoire when the target is reached. Please Help and Support in this massive relief effort. Thank You.31.12.2004 Item80 |
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| Early
photo of Blackrock. Here is a photo that maybe of interest. It was taken in the early 1900s and shows the Diving board at Blackrock, The Bathhouse, The Coastgard's Station and the Martello tower along with spectators sitting on the diving board. A great photo obviously taken from a boat.28.12.04 Item 79 |
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| Christmas
Morning Swim Apparently this is a regular occurrence but yours truly has never witnessed it. Thanks to our intrepid photographer, Martin Fanning, we bring you 4 photos from this Christmas morning. All proceeds go to charity so well done to all for braving such a freezing cold morning. Click on thumbnail to view. 27.12.04 item78 |
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| Balbriggan.net
Helicopter |
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| Festive
Joke. We received this photo by email from one of our regular visitors and they thought it would be appreciated by others, and we agree. Its a great photo. Click on thumbnail to enlarge.21.12.04 Item 76 |
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| Sheffield
Calling---Roger Turner. Roger has contacted us from Sheffield and has emailed us some photos of Balbriggan. "We spent every summer in the 50s & 60's in good old Balbriggan with our friends" he says. Thanks for the photos and it's our pleasure to place them on the site. Click on thumbnail. 19.12.04 Item 75. |
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| Keeling's
Pub & Grocery Shop---Photo taken 1928. |
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| Are
you a regular visitor to Balbriggan.net? We receive between 100 to 200 hits a day and we are very interested to know where our "Regulars" are located around the world. Are there more people in Balbriggan viewing the site than abroad? Help by sending us an email telling us how often you check B.net, and what country you're in, that's all. Click HERE to email us or email to info@balbriggan.net give us your first name, country and how often you check the site, example, Pat, USA, check weekly. 16.12.04 Item 73 |
| Balbriggan
Christmas Lights. We couldn't help noticing how well the christmas lights look this year. There seems to be more of them especially going from one side of the street to another. Has anyone else noticed this? One of the team, Tony, headed out on wednesday night with his camera & tripod and took some shots for our surfers approval. Click on thumbnail to see 3 photos. 16.12.04 Item 72. |
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Drogheda Port in Balbriggan? Believe it or not, this is a definite possibility. Bremore, is the ideal location for a port with the M1 motorway nearby, the Dublin/Belfast rail line, deepwater and low residential density. This project could go ahead sooner rather than later with finance already secured, all its waiting for is the green light from the government. 15.12.04 Item 71. |
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| The
Square--Latest Photos. This is for the Balbrigganers living abroad. It shows how the construction work is progressing. The town is suffering with building work going on all over the town. A new roundabout is been built just past the church, work on the square, work on Chapel street and apartments been built down by the harbour. Consequently there is muck everywhere but that's the price of progress. Those of you abroad, let us know what up-to date photos you would like us to show. 15.12.04 Item 70 |
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| Photo
sent to us by Email. We have received this email and photo. "Hi guys I was going thru some photos that i brought to america with me and i came across liam Bleary Collins, this was him having a half down in the glebe, hope to see it on your site thanks guys and keep the flag flying, Brian Halligan". Thanks Brian. Keep the photos coming.14.12.04 Item 69 |
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| Views
of Balbriggan from Wavin Silo. Thanks to Joe Curtis for these marvelous views. Joe stood on top of the silo and took several photos looking north, south east and west. We have made the photos physically big for your enjoyment. Click on the thumbnail to see 6 photos. 14.12.04 Item 68 |
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| Balbriggan
Historical Society--Revamped Web Site. The Historical Society have relaunched and renamed their web site. Well done to Richard Corr and his team. Their new address is www.balbrigganhistory.net. Check it out and sign their guestbook. Click on the thumbnail to go to their site. 14.12.2004 Item 67 |
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| Balbriggan
Memories--Jim Mulligan Jim works for the Council and would be well known around the town. One of Jim's hobbies is writing poems and we bring you one called Memories. Click HERE to read it. 14.12.04 Item 66 |
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| Mr
Bennett---R.I.P We have received some very sad news, William Bennett, has passed away this evening, Monday 13th Dec. "Billy" came to Balbriggan in 1947 and eventually became the Stationmaster until he retired in 1974. Jack Benton, Joe Curtis, Martin Fanning and Tony Healy have fond memories of Billy and extend our condolences to his family. 13.12.04 Item 65 |
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Latest
Photo. Today's photos come from the Benton/Curtis Collection and it shows Jack Larkin, Des & Ann Darragh and Vincent Donnolly. |
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| The
Balbriggan Cycling Club. Another remarkable photograph courtesy of David Brangan. This one shows the Balbriggan Cycling Club c1900. As you can very clearly see the photo is taken outside the St. Laurence Hotel in Howth. The writing beneath this reads "E. Costello, Propriator". Who knows, maybe the famous Harry Reynolds is in this shot. We have another 80 photographs relating to Balbriggan to come over the coming weeks all taken around 1900. 06.12.04 Item 63 |
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| Balbriggan
Tidy Towns---Helpers required. This group of people have asked u to give them a mention. "We meet at 11.00am every Saturday morning at the Train Station. We're always looking for addtional helpers. Fhor more information people can contact Ciaran Wiseman at 086 8241292". 04.12.04 Item 62 |
| The
Drogheda Linen Company. This is the name clearly visible on this photo(arrowed) of Gallens Mills which is surprising as Charles Gallen bought the factory in 1887. There are two possible reasons for this, either this photo was taken before 1887 which is unlikely or maybe they just hadn't changed the lettering for whatever reason. This photo is another one from the David Brangan Collection and we thank him for allowing us use them. 04.12.04 Item 61 |
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| The
Laurels Quayside and DVD.
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| The
Courthouse Photo c1900. Today we bring you another classic photo from the David Brangan Collection. To recap, these photos are so old that they were given to B.net on Glass by David Brangan. 98 of them in total and most never seen before. This one of the Courthouse was in bad condition as a fungus had started to eat away at the image. Thankfully we now have it stored electronically so it can't deteriorate any more. We also include a recent photo taken from a similar angle. Can anyone spot the major alteration to the building?03.12.04 Item 59 |
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| Bridge
Street 1971. Here is a photograph that was emailed to us by Pat Lyons. It's a smashing photo taken in 1971 and it shows the hotel along with Crilly's Chemist and Maloccas takeaway. Pictures like these are especially great for those new to the town where they can see what it once looked like. Once again, we remind anyone who has photos of the town to contact us, we would love to hear from you. 22.11.04 Item 58 |
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| Web
Site-What's Happening. As you can see, the team have been busy putting together our latest DVD. This means that all our time is taken up with this. Don't despair, we will be back to updating the site at least 3 to 4 times a week very shortly. Keep an eye on the guest book, we have recently added so more comments. Send us any photos in connection with Balbriggan, or if you're from the town but are living abroad, send us a photo of yourself and family. 22.10.04 Item 57 |
| "Balbriggan,Faces
& Places"
DVD for Christmas. Due to the overwhelming success of our last DVD, "Balbriggan, the way things used to be", two of the team have decided to bring out another DVD and a limited number of copies will be available from "McGovern's"(Formally Vision Radio) gift shop. Our target date for launch is Saturday 27th Nov. An American version will be available for those wanting to send to friends there. Martin & Tony are busy gathering photos of people and places of Balbriggan and McGoverns shop are now accepting advance bookings, so get your name in early. This price is € 19.99. Only 100 copies will be replicated, so order yours now. Click on thumbnail for more details.11.11.04 Item 56. |
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| Local
Web Sites. |
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| Hampton
Gates. Apologies to all for the relative inactivity of the site over the past week. All the team were busy working, Martin is missing, presumed drinking, Joe is as busy as ever and Jack & Tony are dossing. Anyway, todays offering is a gem from the David Brangan Collection. This picture, again from the turn of the century, shows Hampton Gates which led up to Hampton Hall. The Gates were at the top of Hampton Street(Skerries Street) at the road junction where the memorial park is now..09.11.04 Item 54 |
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For
Sale-Top of the range Digital Camera. |
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Chess Club The Balbriggan Chess Club Championship is starting on the 14th of November. Participating players are divided into two groups. Every player in each group will play all the others in his/her group. Each player is allocated a time of 1 hour and 15 minutes per game. The tournament is open to all. Further dates for the following rounds are 28th November, 12th December, 9th and 23rd January, 6th and 20th February, 6th and 20th March.These dates are flexible and if a player can't make it on some of those dates he/she will be accomodated. There is no tournament entry fee! 03.11.04 Item 52 |
| Sail
Inn garage closes. This well known garage on Drogheda street closed its doors for the last time today. Although expected to be closed for several months, Shell are expected to rebuild a larger premises here. We bring you two photos, one of the premises and one of the staff along with a regular customer. 29.10.04 Item 51 |
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| Open
Night in Community College. Balbriggan Community College invites all 5th and 6th class students and their parents to our OPEN NIGHT on Thursday the 4th November 2004 from 7.00pm------9.00om. All students must be accompanied by a parent/guardian. Also upcoming is our school production of "Muppets Uncut(e)" in the school gym on the 9th and 10th of November commencing at 8pm. 28.10.04 Item 50 |
| A
Trip down memory Lane. Here is an unusual email we received and we bring it to you in its entirety. Click HERE to contuinue.26.10.04 Item 49 |
| "Balbriggan
Arts Festival 2004" As their contribution to this years Arts Festival the Balbriggan Photographic Club held a three day exhibition of photographs, mostly of Balbriggan in former times. A total of almost 1,000 people passed through the doors and many returned later for a second and third look. The small team worked hard to make the exhibition a success and were delighted by the many positive comments received from people of all ages who attended. Should you wish to join the Balbriggan Photographic Club just drop along to Ardgillan Castle at 2.30 next Saturday, Oct 31st, or check Balbriggan.net for information . Our meetings are informal and there is no fee for membership.25.10.04 Item 48 |
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| Medieval
Night at Balrothery. This event was held in the Balrothery Heritage Centre and a truly wonderful night was had by all. Colourful costumes, plenty of food, wine and crac made this one of the highlights of the festival. Two of the team were there, Martin and Tony, and we bring you Tony's photos here. There are a lot of photos, broken down into two pages. Hopefully they will download fairly quickly. Martin & Tony would like to sincerely thank those involved for their co-operation and hospitality. Our lads thoroughly enjoyed the night. Click on thumbnail to see 35 photos.24.10.04 Item 47. |
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| Photographic
Exhibition beside Bank of Ireland. This exhibition continues all weekend in the old Garda station. Come along and see some great photos of Balbriggan over the years. Joe Curtis has also produced an excellent Audio Visual on Balbriggan using old photos never seen before and this can be viewed at the exhibition . We have some photos here of the opening night. Click on the thumbnail to view same. 23.010.04 Item Temp. |
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| Credit
Union on the square? We received this email the other day and we really enjoyed it. Johnny McLeer from Fancourt Heights sent us some lovely shots that he has taken from his attic room. What a view he has, looking down at the harbour. We bring you 4 photos by Johnny. Well done again, excellent. 18.10.04 Item 46 |
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| Meet
the Balbriggan.net team. As part of the Arts Festival, Balbriggan Camera Club will be displaying numerous photos in the Old Garda Station on Dublin street. Jack, Joe, Martin and Tony(also B.net) will be there and would love to see you there. Bring along any old photos that you think might interest others and we will copy them there on the spot. We have also added more photos to our article on the post office and to awards night.17.10.04 Item 45 |
| Post
Office Closes. The Post Office on Dublin Street has closed its doors for the last time. The present owner is retiring and a new premises is opening on Monday beside the Credit Union. Martin found an old photo of the front of the post office going back to about 1920 to 1930. We already had it on the site but for handiness sake, here it is again. Click on Thumbnail. 15.10.04 Item 44. |
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| Balbriggan.net
wins Town Council Award. Balbriggan.net are thrilled out of their little skins to have won this award. The award, in the "Arts & Culture" section was in recognition of the site's role in promoting the town at home and abroad. There to accept the award from Cllr May McKeown and An Cathaoirleach, Monica Harford, were Tony Healy, Jack Benton & Martin Fanning. Joe Curtis was away and so unable to attend. The site has gone from strength to strength and it was a fitting time to receive the award as its the sites first birthday. Congratulations to the No.1 web team in Ireland. Click on thumbnail to see the photos and more will follow soon.15.10.04 Item 43 |
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What
was there before it became a Car Park? This photo will interest those new to the town. The Car Park beneath the Viaduct was originally "Cumiskey's Coal Yard". We bring you two photos, the first is part of the David Brangan Collection taken c1900 and the second is the same view over a hundred years later. Compare both and see what buildings are still standing. Click on thumbnail to view. 12.10.04 Item 42. |
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| More
help sought. I AM LOOKING FOR SOME INFORMATION ON MY FATHERS FAMILY. HIS NAME WAS JOHN CLINCH. I BELIEVE HIS FAMILY LIVED ON CONVENT LANE. MY FATHER DIED IN 1967 AT THE AGE OF 74. I WOULD APPRECIATE ANY INFORMATION YOU MIGHT HAVE. MICHAEL CLINCH 12.10.04 Item 41 |
| Help
Required. Patrick Beirne. I am currently researching a soldier of the Royal Irish Fusiliers who died in the Great War and wondered if anyone would have any information about a local man who was killed in 1917. Patrick Beirne was born and lived in Balbriggan, he enlisted in the 1st Battalion Royal Irish Fusiliers in Dublin and served with the regiment in France and Flanders until he was killed in action on the 11th April 1917. Patrick was one of 26 men born in Balbriggan who were killed in the First World War. Any assistance would be gratefully received. Best regards. Andy Shaw. If you can help email us and we will forward on the details.11.10.04 Item 40. |
| Brass
& Reed Band. Here we have two photos going back to the early 80's or late 70's. They show the towns Brass & Reed Band. Click the thumbnail to see the photos. Our IT department have received two emails saying that their Internet Explorer freezes when they try open the "News" page(this page). If anyone else is is experiencing this please contact us at info@balbriggan.net We have removed the scrolling text at the top of the page to see if that was the problem. 10.10.04 Item 39 |
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| Scouts
Celebrate their 75th Anniversary |
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| Festival
of Arts 2004. It's that time again where the Balbriggan Arts Festival committee bring the Arts to the Town. We at Balbriggan.net are only too happy to lend our support and we bring you the entire events timetable. Click on the logo.09.10.04 Item 37 |
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| Peace
March 1970's Today we bring you a photo of a Peace march going through the town. The photo shows what's now the Medical Centre and the Pub beside it which is now a Chemist. Our I.T. dept. will be carrying out essential maintenance on the site over the coming days but we hope to be back "Live" by Thursday. 2.10.04 Item 36 |
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| Luas
comes to Balbriggan? Speculation is rife that Dublin's Tram system, LUAS, is coming to Balbriggan and one of the team got this photo of engineers testing the Trams on Dublin street to see how they would cope with the steep incline from the square towards Dublin.29.09.04 Item 35 |
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| Church
Street--1900's A resident from this street asked one of the team if there was a photo of Church Street from early 1900's and its our pleasure to bring you such a photo from the David Brangan collection. PO'H, we hope you enjoy. 29.09.04 Item 34 |
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Chess Club. Chess demontration by Kieran English of Phibsboro Chess Club on Sunday, 3rd October in Order of Malta Hall, Hampton Street, Balbriggan at 2pm. Fee Euro 3.50 for adults and Euro 2.50 for kids (just like on a normal club day). All welcome! For more info phone Thomas 087/6985329 28.09.04 Item 33 |
| Smyco-Inside
Job. It's a week since our last photo courtesy of David Brangan. This photo has been seen before, in a Smyco catalogue if our memory serves us correctly. The one we have is obviously the original and it shows 7 workers sitting by their machines. 26.09.04 Item 32. |
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| The
Antiquarian Cycle Run--by Joe Curtis. Tuesday. 28th Sept. This is an absolute must to see. Joe is presenting this Audio Visual tour on behalf of Balbriggan Historical Society. Years ago, cycle runs were a popular pastime for many and Joe is reinacting one of these using old postcards and photos of towns between Dublin and Drogheda. Joe tells us he will be using the latest technology for this presentation. The Bracken Court Hotel is the venue and 8.30pm is the time. Arrive early to avoid disappointment. Jack Benton will also be there to answer any questions.24.09.04 Item 31. |
| Latest
Photos of work on square. We have received several photos taken from the hotel and it graphically shows the progress that is been made. The Civic Offices, Extension to Library and extension to Bracken Court Hotel has been on going since last October and are due to be completed late next year. 23.09.04 Item 30. |
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| Golden
Spider Web Site Awards. You may have heard the ads on the radio for this. Several people have suggested that Balbriggan.net would have as good a chance as any in the category for community web site. If you think we are good enough, please go to their web site and see category 9. Fingers crossed. Click on thumbnail to go to site. 23.09.04 Item 29 |
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| Marlyn
O Connor Russell. Following an email sent to us through the guestbook, our research department have come up with the following photo taken about the early '90s. showing Jim and Marie O'Connor. 21.09.2004 Item 28. |
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| "Shades
Of Angels" An Exhibition Of Art By Alan Sloey, Emmets House, Quay Street Balbriggan Friday 1st October 2004 Doors open 2pm 21.09.04 Item 27 |
| Classic
Photo. We think its time for another photo in the David Brangan Collection. In case you are new to the site, several weeks ago we came into possession of 98 photos on glass, all of them showing either people or places in Balbriggan. Its a unique collection with most of the photos never seen before. Today's photo is of the Coastguard's station which used to stand almost beside the martello tower before it was gutted in the early 1920's. 16.09.04 Item 26 |
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| Laragh,
corner of Church/Hampton Street. Today we bring you 3 photos. 2 are of Laragh on Church Street from the 1980's with the Dairy visible where Hampton Court is now. The other photo is of Confry's with the Ivory coast in the background. 15.09.04 Item 25. |
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| Harbour
Photo 360°. Here we go again with a moving picture where you control the camera with your mouse. Zoom in, zoom out, whatever you want. This photo was taken today 15th Sept. and the location is down by the lighthouse. Broadband is probably required to view this but if you succeed with a dial-up let us know. Click thumbnail to view.15.09.04 Item 24. |
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| Community
College Class of '66. Here is a photo taken recently by Jack. It's the Community College from 1966. We have all the names and will be placing them on the site soon. 14.09.04. Item 23 |
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| Charity
Walk in 1970. A Charity Walk took place in 1970 and in several subsequent years. These walks were from Balbriggan to Skerries, Loughshinny, Rush, Lusk, Quickpenny, Man-O-War, Balrothery, Balbriggan; say about 20 miles.13.09.04 Item 22 |
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| Guest
Book Revamp. Apologies to one and all, it was only the other day we realised that the guest book had become overloaded, subsequently taking an age to open. We have rectified this situation now. To view the Guest Book, go to bottom of the Home page. Again we ask you to regularly check the guest book for messages left by others. 13.09.04 Item 21 |
| Balbriggan
Rugby Club. The team were due to play Navan in the Jenkenson Cup today sunday but unfortunately the visitors weren't able to provide a full team so the match was cancelled. Two of the Balbriggan.net team were there hoping to get some action shots but instead they had to settle for photos of a training session. Balbriggan Rugby Club have a web site that has just started and we wish them well on that venture. Their web address is www.balbrigganrfc.com. 12.09.04 Item 20. |
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| Today's
Special Include. A montage of the railway, Christy kiernan, Joe Gilbert, a recent dusk photo and a view of the new building on Mill street. All created for your pleasure by the hardest working web team in Ireland. Click the thumbnail to see all photos. 12.09.04 Item 19 |
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| The
Railway Station 1963. Here is a great photo of the station over 40 years ago. Top left is the Signal Box and notice the large shelter area of the platform and the extra building attached to the factory. 10.09.04 Item 18. |
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| Seamus
Smith Barber. In this photo, taken c1984, we bring you Paddy ally with Seamus Smith. Seamus was the Barber on Mill street. 10.09.04 Item 17 |
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| Can
anyone help here. Hello, My name is María, I am from Spain, but I will be in Balbriggan the next Octuber. So I would like to know if you could provide me with information about accomodation (I´m 24) and also about job demand. Although I will be working at St George´s School as a language assistant, I would appreciate if you give me information about part time jobs in Balbriggan. Thank you very much. María José Sánchez. 10.09.04 Item 16 |
| Bomb
Scare at Sunshine House. Several weeks back there was a bomb scare at Sunshine House where a device was found and was "ticking". As you will see, the Army Bomb Disposal team arrived to make the devise safe. From what we know there was no explosives but it was an elaborate hoax. The whole saga lasted about 5 hours with many of the houses on Church Street evacuated. We got some photos and we bring you 2. 05.09.04 Item15. |
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| Balbriggan
Camera Club. Because of the cross-over between Balbriggan.net and Balbriggan Camera Club, we thought it a good idea to create a site for the club. We have replaced the button "View Book" with a new one, "Camera Club". We hope to display photos by the members of the club in the coming weeks. Click HERE to see site.05.09.04 Item 14 |
| Help
Required. I wonder if you could tell me what bus I would get from Dublin Airport to Balbriggan or direct me to the appropriate website .I am from Glasgow ,Scotland and am visiting in December . By the way the website gets better everyday some great pics on it I was interested by one in particular ,it showed the lighthouse being struck by lightning and was by Adrian Mc Mahon the reason it interested me was because if its the same guy (has he a Twin named Aiden? he was a childhood friend when I visited with my family aged about 6 to 10 yrs old I think they stayed in DerhamPark so say hello for me . Keep up the Great work .ANTHONY SLOEY. Click HERE to see replies 05.09.04 Item 13 |
| Liffey
Descent. Balbriggan.net always looking out for good stories sent a cup reporter to Celbridge on the river Liffey and he brought back the following images to prove he actually went as instructed. Click on thumbnail to read report and see the photos. 05.09.04 Item 12 |
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| Balbriggan
Chess Club. We have been asked to give this new club a mention. One of the team went along to one of their sessions and took some photos. We now have contact details. Click on thumbnail to learn more about this club and to see more photos.04.09.04 Item 11 |
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| Santa
Ponsa. One of the team on a recent visit to Santa Ponsa, Majorca, met up with fellow holiday makers and entertainers. Never missing an opportunity, Martin introduced them to Balbriggan.net and with camera on hand, took some photos which we are delighted to put on our site to record the occasion. So hello Mikey & Danny, Ell-Marie & Andrea, & Carmel, Ray & Kathleen.04.09.04 item10 |
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| Engine
No85. The Original Enterprise passes through town. Thank god that one of the team happened to be finishing on nights and so was able to stay up and watch this 72 year old engine pass through the station. A 45 minute delay meant she didn't leave Dublin until 08.30 and it was about 09.00 when she sped through. Conditions weren't great for photographs when the "Merlin" passed, it was dull and overcast and she traveling quite fast but we got two shots of reasonable quality. 02.09.04 Item 9. |
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| Engine
No85. The Original Enterprise passes through town. Thank god that one of the team happened to be finishing on nights and so was able to stay up and watch this 72 year old engine pass through the station. A 45 minute delay meant she didn't leave Dublin until 08.30 and it was about 09.00 when she sped through. Conditions weren't great for photographs when the "Merlin" passed, it was dull and overcast and she traveling quite fast but we got two shots of reasonable quality. 02.09.04 Item 9. |
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| Not
more Harbour photos! That's what one of the team said to another after our latest batch of photos was put on site on the 31st of August. So to right this wrong we have another batch from around the town minus the Harbour. Click on the thumbnail to view. 02.09.04 Item 8. |
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| Beautiful
Day photos. Tuesday saw a magnificent day in Balbriggan weather wise, so, as usual one of the team headed out to capture as many shots as possible for you(especially those abroad) to enjoy. 31.08.04 Item7 |
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| Baldongan
Castle? Some people refer to it as a castle, in fact the castle no longer stands. Baldongan Church and Tower to give it's correct title, was built in the 14th Century as a parish church with the Tower added at a later date to protect the priests who lived there, as it lay within the Pale and so subject to attack. 31.08.04 Item6 |
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| The
Square from the mid 90's. Here is a photo we came across by one of the team. We reckon it was taken around 1997, give or take a couple of years. The shot was taken on a Sunday morning from outside the Bank looking up towards Hampton Street. The Public toilets are there along with the parking spaces for wheelchair users. 30.08.04. Item 5. |
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| Old
Photos time again. Once again, a photo from the David Brangan collection and this is an unusual photograph. The guys with the guns are almost certainly the Coastguards. The Coastguards were an armed force and when they used the Martello Tower had even a cannon mounted on a rail on the top of the Tower which allowed the gun to cover a large area around the Tower. Oddly enough both the Market House and Martello were built within a period of only a few years. The Martello being just a few years older. Question. On another topic, anyone know how "Market Green" got its name as several people have pointed out there was never a market there? Answer. Market Green comes from the Market House which was built in circa 1810 and to one of five or six designs set down by the British Government. Most reasonable sized towns in Ireland were provided with a Market House during that period. The original street was named Manchester St, which was a Cul de Sac, and later became Market Green; the locals in our area always referred to it as 'The Green'. 30.08.04 Item4 |
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| Balbriggan
Paintings. We received the following email today, "Hi I wonder if you could tell me where I could find a painting of Balbriggan to buy, Many thanks, Niamh Barlow". If anyone can help, please contact us at info@balbriggan.net. And now for something entirely different, if you missed steam engine No. 85 when it last passed through the town, you have another chance to catch a glimpse this Thursday morning at about 08.15. to 08.30 as she makes her way from Dublin to Belfast. Get those digital cameras out, 30.08.04 Item3 |
| Sea
Banks-1916 and 1983. Two more photos today both depicting the same spot. The first is from about 1916 and a close look reveals a structure, almost hanging over the cliff, no wonder it's gone. The second shot is from 1983 and in this shot a shelter can be seen that's no longer there. Probably demolished to discourage loitering. 29.08.04 Item2 |
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Two
Photos from June 1984.
We bring you two photos today, the first is a group of children on Drogheda street. Can anyone put names to the faces? They would be in their mid-thirties now. The second is of a horse and cart on mill street, can anyone name the horse? 29.08.04 Item1 |
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| Lost
news items. |
| Web
Site Changes. As you can see, our technical team are at it again. Firstly they have added a scrolling text at the top of this page. |
| Loreto
Convent. From 1984 and immediately prior to the destruction of the Church we show an image of the interior of the Loreto. The loss of this building in favour of a modern, 'easy to maintain' and rather mundane building, is still voiced today.22.08.04 |
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| Wavin
Engineering Team. We show the Wavin Engineering team from September 1963. From left: Paddy Mathews, Michael Maloney, Peter O'Hare, Denis Reynolds, Kevin King, Con Conway, Joe Russell & Jack Morgan.22.08.04 |
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| Two
Great Northern Railway men meet in Balbriggan Mr Billy Bennet and Mr Arthur Healy, both worked for the GNR (I)...Arthur in the Goods Dept. in Sherrif Street Dublin and Billy in Cavan and Dundalk, ending his career as Stationmaster in Balbriggan. Billy is in his early 90's and Arthur(father of one of the team) is a youngster of 68 years! We bring you two photos of Billy Bennet... the first with Arthur and the second with Tony Healy.18.08.04 |
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| Parochial
Hall Time for another photo from the David Brangan Collection. This one is of the Parochial Hall at the back St Georges Church. Some may remember it more as the Table Tennis Club. We have also included an up to date photo of the same scene, you will see that where the gentlemen is sitting on the window ledge is now a Porch that was obviously added on in later years.12.08.04 |
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| Hit
Counter goes haywire. For wherever reason, our Hit counter started to give unreliable readings. To rectify this situation we have started another one. Apologies to all who thought our site was the most popular on the web.12.08.04 |
| Another
Photo from David Brangan. |
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| Gormonston
Character. |
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| Butlins
Holiday Camp, Mosney. A trip down memory lane here thanks to Richard Corr of BHSIreland(Historical Society) and messers Benton & Curtis. These have brought back some nice memories for one of the team in particular who frequented Mosney in the mid seventies. We hope you enjoy these images, we have made them big for your enjoyment. We have come across a web site that has photos from all the Butlins, including Mosney. So click HERE to see a great selection of postcards and photos.07.08.04 |
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| Diddler Another of Balbriggan's lost characters and better known by his nickname than his Christian name; "Diddler" McInerney from Clonard St. Recently we featured a photograph of his brother, Paddy (known as The Dozer) sitting on the same steps at the entrance to the Town Commissioner's Rooms on the Square. Obviously a favourite place to sit in the sun. Although taken just a few years ago every trace of the building is now demolished in the reconstruction of the town centre. Sadly both the McInerney brothers have passed to their just reward. 06.08.04 |
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| Groucho
Marx---Cork Ireland. |
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| Beat
this---Auckland, New Zealand. For those of you new to the site, we have a thing going where we ask those of you abroad to take a picture of yourself with your computer beside you and Balbriggan.net clearly visible. Up until now the furthest distance from Balbriggan was North Carolina USA. But today, thanks to Jack Weir in Auckland New Zealand, he has taken the lead, Well done Jack.0208.04 |
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| Convent
Lane 1984 An image of Convent Lane, Balbriggan taken by one of the team in 1984, so only twenty years ago. How this street has changed from a quiet backwater into a very busy area, both with business activity and car parking. Most of the car parking is carried out by commuters travelling by train daily who have little space to park in the vicinity of the station. JC 29.07.04 |
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Who are these guys?........ Our last few photos from the David Brangan collection have all depicted scenes from Balbriggan with people in the distance. Today's offering is a close-up of two gentlemen standing in the porch of what's now the National Irish Bank but at the time of the photo was called "Northern Banking Co Limited". We are at a loss to who these people are, maybe the Bank Manager and his assistant. Any suggestions on how we could put names to these faces, please let us know. We have about another 30 close ups of people in the town which we will be bringing to you over the coming weeks and months. Click on the thumbnail and see if you can see any resemblance to anyone now living in the town, maybe there is a Richardson there, or a Guildea or even a Corcoran. Maybe the present Bank Manager could help us on this one.28.07.04 |
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