Ballinrobe History
Ballinrobe, County Mayo in the West of Ireland
History
Ballinrobe is one of the oldest towns in County Mayo. Established as a borough in the wake of the Norman conquest of the thirteenth century, this beautiful and historical town is bordered by Cong to the South, Lough Mask to the West, and Lough Carra and Moore Hall to the North.
A recent archaeological survey of Ballinrobe and district identified a wealth of sites and monuments dating back to the neolithic and early bronze age, including crannogs, ringforts, souterains, fulachta fiadh, standing stones, and a variety of burial sites such as cysts, barrows, hedges, and two very impressive cairns associated with the Battle of Moytura.
Evidence of early Christian and medival times can be seen in the remains of the various churches and town houses in the locality. Of particular significance is the 14th century Augustinian Priory of Ballinrobe. The O'Connors were responsible for the building of many fine churches in this part of County Mayo - Ballintubber, Cong, Shrule, and the Holy Rood church in Ballinrobe. This latter Church was erected on the site of a 7th century church built by a Chieftain named O'Ruadhain who lived in Liskillen.
The South Mayo Family Research Centre is based in Ballinrobe in the newly refurbished Schoolhouse on Main Street.
The extensive database held at the Centre enables people with Mayo roots to trace their ancestors. The centre also provides information on other aspects of the area including the social history of South Mayo.
Family History
Looking for your roots in South Mayo?
Try the South
Mayo Family Research Centre
or call in and see them at:
South Mayo Family Research Centre
Main Street
Ballinrobe
County Mayo
Ireland
Tel: + + 353 94 954 1214
Fax: + + 353 94 954 1214
e-mail: soumayo@iol.ie
