This lively port is not only home to the largest fishing
fleet in Northern Ireland, but is also the capital of the ancient Kingdom of
Mourne, and as such is an ideal base for exploring the beautiful Mourne Mountains and Carlingford Lough. Kilkeel
has a long history dating back to megalithic times, with many dolmens
(megalithic tombs) and raths (ancient circular dwellings) in the area. The harbour, which was first started in the
1850s, is mainly dedicated to fishing for shellfish such as prawns and
scallops, but there are proposals for an expansion including the construction
of a new breakwater.
In the past, Greencastle Pier at the mouth of Carlingford
Lough was the scene of many a departure for the New World by local people
searching for a new life. During World
War II there was a US aerodrome at Greencastle, which was the venue for a
wartime commemorative festival called GI Jive last year – I have been unable to
find out whether the festival is running again this year.
One of Kilkeel’s most unpleasant residents over the years
was William Hare, born Thomas O’Hare, one of the infamous body snatching duo
known as Burke and Hare. After testifying
against Burke, which led to the latter’s hanging in 1829, Hare went to live out
his days in Kilkeel, acquiring a wife and child with whom he lived in Newry
Street. He is said to be buried at the
Burial Banks alongside the former Kilkeel Workhouse.
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| The weekend at Kilkeel harbour - geograph.org.uk - 583367. Photo by Albert Bridge, via Wikimedia Commons. |
