Mayo’s links to Ulster are researched
The Linenhall in Castlebar was founded by families who came to the town from Northern Ireland.
A Cork man is researching the influx of Northern refugees into Mayo in 1795/6, known as the Diamond Flight (following the defeat of the Catholic Defenders at the Battle of the Diamond near Loughgall, Co Armagh).
"The number of refugees is unknown, only a small percentage being recorded," said Michael Brabazon. "They settled in Westport, Newport, Castlebar, Crossmolina, Ballina and Foxford.
"One example is that of Francis Nugent and family who came from Cootehill, Co Cavan and settled in the townland of Keelkill, south of Westport. According to my research, there are many descendants of this family and I imagine that knowledge of their roots has been lost over the course of time.
"I would be grateful to learn of any oral/written histories that recall family origins in Ulster from the late 18th century. Many of the refugees were linen weavers, and amongst them were members of the United Irishmen.
Michael can be contacted at brabazonmichael105@gmail.com or by post at Drimoleague, Co Cork.
