The Gap of the North

Over 100 people recently took part in 2 Shared History Study Trips entitled The Gap of the North. Guided by Barbara Ferguson of Armagh Guided Tours we began in Markethill and travelled through Mountnorris and on to Bessbrook.

On arrival we met with the Model Village Community Association in Bessbrook Orange Hall. Trevor Kinnin gave an excellent presentation on the work of the group, the history of Bessbrook and Bessbrook Orange District. Participants viewed the various exhibitions on display in Bessbrook Orange Hall. Will Glendinning then facilitated a workshop on perceptions of South Armagh. We continued by bus and Barbara pointed out the landmarks of this historic village. Passing through Camlough we travelled the Ring of Gullion to Kilnasaggart Standing Stone, an 8th century early Christian Site, from where we could see Moyry Castle which was built in 1601.

At the Castle Barbara explained that Mountjoy’s army invaded Ulster through the Gap of the North.

Lunch was at Creggan Church of Ireland where we heard how the Historical Group have refurbished the 2 halls on the site.

We toured the church and the graveyard which contains the ancient burial tomb of the O’Neills and then home to Markethill and Portadown via Newtownhamilton.

The 2 trips organinsed sold out very quickly and show the interest there is in visiting this area.