A detailed timeline of historical events in the Colin district has been pulled into a single document aimed specifically at the area’s history.
The historical timeline dates the key events in the history of the area, from pre-Christian times to the modern-day and the opening of the Colin Connect hub and town square.
It’s the first time the history of the area has been co-ordinated into a single project – and it reveals our history in all its complexity.
Researched by historian Dr Eamon Phoenix, the Colin historical timeline traces key events in the history of the district.
While still a work in progress, it speaks of a litany of fascinating events and people including:
- the creation of pre-Christian stone cairns
- the story of the loss and subsequent finding of an ancient stone water font from the medieval church at Kilwee in the mid-1500s
- the heroism of Belle Steele
- Mass rocks, penal laws and the United Irishmen in the area
- Details of churches and key religious figures including Rev Henry Montgomery, known as the ‘Lion of Dunmurry’
- key dates in the story of Cloona House (above)
- and much, much more.
A screenshot is below. The timeline can be accessed on the website of the Colin Heritage Project at https://www.colinheritage.com/historical-timeline/
The document is an ongoing work and more dates and facts can be added once validated.
Annie Armstrong, Manager of the Colin Neighbourhood Partnership, the parent body of Colin Heritage, said: “It’s both fascinating and exciting to see the history of Colin being drawn together and presented as one story for us all to read.
“Work is ongoing and we would love anyone with facts, dates or stories to get in touch with Colin Heritage.”
Dr Phoenix added: “The history of Colin really is like a microcosm of the history of our island.
“We’d love to hear from anyone who can add more detail – especially stories or folklore handed down the generations.
“Many people, for example, might have more detail on Belle Steele and her heroic deeds, or more modern history like the story of Cloona House, for example.”
Anyone who can contribute to the story of our area is encouraged to get in touch. Contact paul.connolly@smartvideo.media