Ballybay

Sister cities

• Osterhofen

History

Ballybay, originally known as ‘Ballybea’, was founded in the 18th century by members of the [https://www.townthorns.co.uk/the-jacksons#:~:text=The%20Jackson%20Family%20were%20Presbyterians,who%20was%20born%20in%201785. Jackson] family, who were prominent in the linen industry. By the 19th century, Ballybay had become a thriving market town, hosting fairs, public meetings, and events that attracted organisers and traders from the surrounding areas. The establishment of the Town Council in 1870 marked a significant development in Ballybay’s governance. In 1871, town commissioners held meetings with bank representatives, businessmen, and other stakeholders to discuss the town’s infrastructure and economic growth. These discussions led to improvements in water supply, street lighting, and waste management, contributing to the town’s modernisation. During the height of the linen industry, Ballybay experienced a period of economic prosperity. However, the rise of industrialisation, including steam boilers and powered sails, led to the decline of the local linen trade. By the time of the First World War, Ballybay had adapted to new economic realities, becoming a key horse trading post. This shift supported trades such as harness making, blacksmithing, and nail production. The town’s central marketplace remained vibrant, offering goods such as linseed, corn, meat, horses, and farm produce.

Geography

The town is the meeting point for roads going to Monaghan, Castleblayney, Carrickmacross and Clones. The town grew up from the convergence of the roads. The town is built beside a large lake, Lough Major () and the smaller Lough Minor. The Dromore River also runs through the south of the town, past Pearse Brother's Football Grounds, and past the Riverdale Hotel.