The Growth of Ballycastle
Below is a picture of the Salt Mines, a vibrant industry in the 17th Century developed by the McDonnell Clan contributing to the successful prosperity of Ballycastle. We were fascinated to discover that the evidence of this industry can still be clearly seen within the rock formation today.
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Learning From Archeological Evidence
Colin Breen has shown us in a practical way how archaeologists use information available from ruins and discover through official digs how to learn about life in the past and how it has shaped our landscape and culture today.
"We were given a clipboard and placed in groups with 3 instructions; to find the Black Nun's Grave, Randal McDonnell's grave and based on prior knowledge to find an old wall under the ground," reported Zoe in Y6
The 'Black Nun'
A small rounded cross with a hole in the centre at the west door marks the grave of Julia McQuillan, a recluse who resided here in the 1600s, better known as "The Black Nun". She was famous for her predictions some of which local believers claim to have been fulfilled. There have been many sightings of a headless figure, reported to be the Black Nun haunting Bonamargy.
The grave marker of the Black Nun (left) has many superstitions surrounding it. One of the 'myths' concerning the grave states that if a woman puts her hand through the hole in the gravestone she will either become pregnant or will be cursed!!!! All of the boys in our class put their hand through the hole but only half of the girls dared to!!!!!!! |
What we discovered.....
Bonamargy Friary was built close to the mouth of the Carey and Shesk rivers by Rory MacQuillan in 1500 and the name Bonamargy means ‘foot of the Margy River’. It is a late Franciscan Friary established in 1485 by Rory MacQuillan. It is said that the first battle between the warring MacDonnell and MacQuillan clans was fought on nearby land. At the main entrance to the friary is a small, two storey gatehouse which opens into a store and workroom. Steps lead directly to the dormitory above. Traces of an altar can still be found in the adjoining church, and the locked vaults hold the remains of the celebrated chieftain, Sorley Boy MacDonnell, and several of the earls of Antrim.
Perhaps the Friary’s most famous resident was the 17th century prophet and recluse Julie MacQuillen. Known as ‘The Black Nun’, MacQuillen wished to be buried at the entrance of the chapel so that she might be trodden under the feet of those who entered. A worn celtic cross (rounded with a hole in the centre) marks her grave at the west end of the main church. Her ghost is still said to roam the ruins at night.
Perhaps the Friary’s most famous resident was the 17th century prophet and recluse Julie MacQuillen. Known as ‘The Black Nun’, MacQuillen wished to be buried at the entrance of the chapel so that she might be trodden under the feet of those who entered. A worn celtic cross (rounded with a hole in the centre) marks her grave at the west end of the main church. Her ghost is still said to roam the ruins at night.