Community group launches new local history book

THE Kilmacrew and District Rural Community Group recently launched its own new book delving into the history of the area.

Members, friends and guests gathered at Whitehill Orange Hall for the launch of ‘A Brief History of Kilmacrew & District’.

The book has been hailed an interesting compilation of local history, from memories of schooldays to wartime reflections from local senior citizens William Montgomery, Matilda McCahon, Bertie McRoberts, James McCandless and Jack Coulter.

It also features Bobby Ingram and Will MacRoberts’ memories of Whitehill Orange Lodge and Flute Band.

Community group chairman, Andrew McRoberts, welcomed everyone to the launch, notably special guest, Councillor Elizabeth Ingram, Chairman of Banbridge District Council.

He explained that the group, formed in 2005, met monthly in Whitehill Orange Hall to discuss community issues.

Mr. McRoberts recalled how, a year ago, the group first discussed the idea of producing a book for the benefit of the inhabitants of the Kilmacrew area.

Thanks to financial support from ‘Awards for All’, he said, the resulting “excellent publication” had been launched.

Committee member, Will MacRoberts, gave a brief overview of the book.

Whitehill, he said, could trace its roots to a group of houses on a hill; since it was not a townland, the name Kilmacrew was used in the book title.

Treasurer Kenny McCahon then officially launched the book, presenting a copy to the chairman.

Councillor Ingram concluded formal proceedings by commending everyone involved in compiling the book.

It would be a wonderful legacy for generations to come, she said.

Local musicians Seapatrick Music Club and Jinglers Bridge Group played a selection of Irish, Ulster Scots, gospel and country music.

Group vice-chairman Anthea McRoberts brought the evening to a close; shethanked all who contributed to the book, all who attended and all who helped.

‘A Brief History of Kilmacrew and District’ is available, free of charge, from Dromore and Banbridge Libraries, Ballydown Primary School, Nelson-Singleton Solicitors’ office, Dromore, Graham’s Newsagents, Dromore, Garvaghy Post Office, Fred Elliott’s Butchers, Banbridge or from any group member.