Stories & Advice involving Belfast & beyond. Read about our myths & legends over the centuries, historical advice on a range of subjects and varied information from historical books long forgotten
A look at some proverbs, wit and wisdom from 1858. Some sayings are obviously dated but others still ring true today.
A look at some of the laws & regulations of old Belfast Town that may appear very unusual or strange to modern eyes.
Marriage guidance for husband and wife, published in 1858, in the form of a dozen rules to ensure a happy marriage
The true story of ‘white witch’ Mary Butters, her attempt to cure a bewitched cow and her subsequent prosecution in court.
The strange tale of James Haddock, a man who died in 1657 but whose ghost returned subsequently to give evidence in Carrickfergus Court
Catherine Alexander’s book “Friendly Advice to Irish Mothers on Training their Children” (1839) aims to educate mothers on parenting
Growing up in Belfast decades ago, children usually played out in the streets given the chance. These are some of the games we remember.
Today Banagher old church stands quietly on its grassy drumlin. Its stories of saints, dragons, outlaws and holy sand are all but forgotten.
The fact that the name of Shane Crossagh remains synonymous with bravery and justice reflects his popularity in those most dangerous times.
On 13th September 1902 a meteorite fell to earth at a farm near Crumlin, about 12 miles from Belfast. It didn’t remain for long.
The last witch trial in Ireland that reached a verdict took place in March 1711 at the Old Courthouse in Carrickfergus.
A famous resident of north Belfast is Gordon Thompson, better known as Galloper Thompson, the phantom horseman!
In 1839, Ireland was hit by a hurricane that caused devastation throughout the country. Nothing before or since comes close to the “Big Wind”
Naoise O’Haughan , known as Ness or Neesy, was born in 1691 at Skerry in County Antrim and went on to become Antrim’s Gentleman Outlaw
The story of Saint Olcan and his Holy Well – for centuries a source of hope to pilgrims and those suffering. Every rag holds someone’s pain
On a rocky outcrop near Doagh, County Antrim is the Celtic standing stone, known as the Holestone – a place of significance for millennia.
The legend of the diamond that could be seen glittering in the sunlight on the high slopes of the Cave Hill overlooking Belfast. What was it?
St Patrick is the Patron Saint of Ireland. A fifth century missionary, he is credited with bringing Christianity to Ireland.
The Arts Council of N.I. commissioned “The Salmon of Knowledge” (AKA ‘the Big Fish’) to celebrate the regeneration of the Lagan River.
Telegram – Interview with the Titanic officers. All unanimous that Thomas Andrews died a heroic death, thinking only of others safety.