A Review of this site by the Newtownabbey Times

A VERY MODERN WAY OF LOOKING AT THE PAST

If you are interested in any aspect of local history, Ballyclare & District Historical Society's packed website is a must for your favourites folder.This great site brings what could be viewed by some as a fairly dry subject bang up to date and alive with colour.

The modestly designed home page belies the hidden treasures within. The layout offers a range of sections to explore, which in turn lead on to sub-sections and further links,a bit like Dr. Who's Tardis.So which are the best bits? Well, it's hard to know where to start. The Historical Society's Secretary, Archie Reid, has obviously put a lot of thought into this site and his efforts have not gone unnoticed, judging by the guest book comments from visitors as far afield as America and Australia.

The history of Ballyclare and surrounding villages is carefully traced with illustrations depicting early settlements and photographs of important local landmarks. Among the most remarkable pictures featured is an image of a bustling Ballyclare Square in the 1880s, taken from a set of Victorian slides discovered in Lancashire. This, in turn, links to the Society's May Fair site, which provides a wealth of information about the background to the famous festival and recent fairs.

Also fascinating is a section on American links, with pride of place given to Texan hero Sam Houston, whose family can be traced back to Ballynure in the 18th century. "Ballyclare Abroad" page updates visitors on exiles around the world who are researching connections in the market town. The site has provided valuable help to people in America, Canada, New Zealand and Australia. For those delving into their family roots, the Society's website also includes a very useful section suggesting links to a number of organisations which may prove helpful, including the Northern Ireland Family History Society and the Northern Ireland Public Record Office.

Another unexpected find is a page devoted to local music groups, with an early picture and history of Ballyclare Victoria Flute Band and web link to Ballyclare Male Choir. Ballyclare & District Historical Society has organised competitions for primary school children in recent years, and the section highlights this project and includes not only a photograph of the most recent winners but many examples of the young writers'writing. Another important aspect of Society's activities is the prograrnme of summer walks and outings, which gets a special section, complete with photographs.

You can also find out about books relating to the Ballyclare area, from Ordnance Survey Memoirs to publications by the society. For those interested in joining the group, the site includes detail on its background and a full list of meetings planned for the season

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