New panels shed light on Crossgar’s history

New panels shed light on Crossgar’s history

23 August 2023

THE history of Crossgar has come to life with the unveiling of three interpretative panels strategically positioned throughout the village.

The panels are the brainchild of the Crossgar Area Community Association and have been funded by the Department of Communities’ Historic Environment Fund Revival Scheme.

Unveiling the new panels, Newry, Mourne and Down Council deputy chairman Gareth Sharvin said, “The council was pleased to assist with the project and welcomes the new installations detailing the history of Crossgar and commend the community association’s determination to encourage local people to learn more about their history.

“I would like to thank the Department of Communities for funding this initiative through their Heritage Environment Fund and hope that visitors and local people alike enjoy the panels.”

Local councillor Callum Bowsie said he was delighted that the signs have been installed.

Cllr Bowsie is also the chairman of Crossgar Historical Society and played a major role in choosing the locations for the panels.

He said: “The three locations I’ve chosen are at Everogue’s Bridge, Market Square, and Killyleagh Street, each outlining a different aspect of Crossgar’s rich history using information I’ve gathered over the years,” he said.

Unlike other villages in Rowallane, Crossgar has never had any history signage. I’ve been lobbying for history signs around Crossgar for years and finally a grant of £4,000 was found last year through DfC’s Historic Environment Fund.

I would like to thank Crossgar Area Community Association for supporting my funding application. Thanks to the Historic Environment Fund and Newry, Mourne and Down Council for their cooperation over the last year, as well as Crossgar LOL.

“Thanks also to Philip Spratt from Crossgar for designing the signs, and Platinum Expo (Carryduff) for manufacturing the signs. Crossgar is a wonderful place and I hope these signs help to promote our village more.”

The community association researched Crossgar’s rich history, going back to the late 17th century when the area was known as Everogue’s Bridge.

The journey unfolds through time, highlighting the emergence of the ‘new’ village of Crossgar as a bustling market town.

Positioned at Lislea Drive playing fields, the Square car park and Killyleagh Street, these interpretative panels outline this historical transformation, providing information on some of the key landmarks within the area.

The project not only enriches the villages amenities for local people, but also fosters a deeper connection with their heritage.

Additionally, for visitors exploring Crossgar, these panels offer a captivating glimpse into the local history, enhancing their experience.

The Communities Historic Environment Fund Revival Scheme played an integral part in this project.

This funding scheme supports heritage work throughout Northern Ireland enabling Community groups and owners of historic properties the ability to access various funding streams.

The funds contribute towards stimulating heritage projects which increase public awareness of the heritage value of historic buildings and monuments.