A DERRIAGHY EMIGRANT WRITES HOME

Last century a number of Derriaghy people, in common with many of their fellow countrymen, emigrated to America.

Among them was John McBride of Bridge End (the house has since been demolished) who sailed from Belfast on 6th May 1819 and landed at Quebec on 15th June. For a number of years he wrote home regularly. Mr. Charles McKinstry has in his possession an impressive collection of his letters. In them John mentions other Derriaghy emigrants as well as making interesting comments on life in America and the political scene in Ireland as viewed from across the Atlantic. His beautiful copper plate writing is still quite legible. Some of the letters are written both across and down the pages. His turn of phrase and powers of description, as well as his interest in affairs, speak highly of his Derriaghy education.

The following are a few extracts from his letters.

"There is no Protestant church here; there is a Presbyterian church, a Dutch Reformed church and a house where Methodists meet." (In those days Protestant was equivalent to Anglican).

He has this to say about American ladies�and breaks into or at least quotes verse.

"The people here and all places of America I have seen dress very fine (in particular the ladies who are foolish in that article). I have seen the mill girls dressed all in their silks with veils over their faces and some fans in hand; they are in general most shamefully proud.

When they work in the mills you'll scarce see them for frills
With their frocks and their tippets so gay
There is English and Scotch, French, Irish and Dutch
Thus to pride great attention they pay
In their dress they are neat but they're still not complete
They wish to dress well as the best
No caps they do wear but will stick in their hair
As many combs as there's in a wasp's nest."

He warns his father that far-away fields are not always as green as they seem although later he did well at his trade which was weaving.

"Dear father the people of Ireland are sorely mistaken about this country; from what I have seen and of it I would not allow anyone to come here unless they had some friend before them who would have a place ready for them; if times are not a great deal worse than they were when I left it, there is no man if he would be as industrious at home as he has to be here but would be a great deal better".

Even in those days Ireland's troubles were making the headlines across the world and this Derriaghy man has his own comments to make on them.

In June 1822 he wrote:-

"The disturbances in the South of Ireland I hear as regular as you do; there is a ship now leaves New York four times each month for Liverpool and we get the news here very regular; in some of our last papers brought by the ship which brought your letter there are extracts from Belfast papers which represent Ireland (the south) to be actually starving for want of food and the numbers are given from different baronies in the counties of Clare, Cork, etc. which are in actual want; instances are mentioned of them killing their only cow to stop the mouths of their crying hungry children; may God in mercy relieve them some way or other; such a state of things cannot long continue.

"The accounts from the South of Ireland continue most miserable, they have raised a subscription in New York to send Ireland; it has to be sent off on the 14th of this month. In Baltimore they were just in the act of raising a subscription for the same purpose when an alarming fire broke out and consumed, I believe, 100 houses so I suppose that would stop their humane design for the present. I think the British government might be ashamed (if there was any shame left) to see a new country like this sending charity to their subjects but I believe they have lost both shame and feeling."

In June 1823 the rising cost of living and church disunity share a paragraph.

"Provisions of all kinds are dearer than when I last wrote. Paper such as this I am writing on is 25 cents the quire; it is made the next house to the shop I work in. This place is improving very fast; we have two churches and the subscription is out for a third which is for a sect called universalists who contend that all men will be finally happy in a future state, let their sins be ever so great; they are very numerous here; I have heard them preach sometimes but be their doctrine true or false I think it leads too much to dissipation among the ignorant and wicked part of mankind who are willing to join with anything which will quiet their guilty conscience. The Methodists and Presbyterians are at open war with the Universalists who have a semi-monthly paper printed in this village for the purpose of promulgating their opinions and it is a doctrine that is spreading over many parts of this country but I am no "theologist" and I have little to say about these matters; I leave them to them who have more time and better information, hoping and trusting that God will so guide and direct me through life that I may not be afraid at my latter end."

Again in 1825 he wrote:-

He did not take kindly to the idea of Catholic Emancipation.

"I see by late accounts that the Catholic bill has passed the Commons and was once read in the House of Lords (may it never get further). Our editors think it will pass but indeed they know little about it; they speak as they would wish, all sects being on a level in this country; they think it should be so with you. They seem to forget how the Catholics have acted in every age and in every country where popery is the established religion; look at France at this day and priest ridden Spain where no crime is too bad to be committed. Yesterday read an account of the French king's coronation and to us plain people who live in this country, it is in fact disgusting; only let one of our Presidents have such a pompous, parade, even old Farmer would pull up his breeches and scratch his head exclaiming "this must put down the next election" and every press from Maine to Missouri would be railing at their elected servants�but such cannot be the case here."

John's sister Charlotte joined him in America and some of her letters and those of her husband William are also in the collection.

Another brother, James, moved from Bridge End to Mosside House on his marriage in 1828. William John, son of James, was rate collector for the district and lived at Milltown House.

There was a sister, Sarah, born in 1803. The medal she was presented with in 1816, for being "A Good Girl" came into the rector's possession some time ago (given by the late James Brown, Milltown). It was possibly a Sunday School prize and appears to be made of pewter.

The McKinstry surname came through the marriage of a daughter of James McBride into a Magheragall family in 1857.

Among the parish records are burial registers and day books (kept by the sextons, probably) for the years between 1837 and 1926 each giving the cause of death as well as the age of the person at each interment.

In 1845 there were 76 burials in the churchyard. Among the causes of death given were:�Decline 27, Scarletina 22, Age 9, Contracted or contrac (t) 6, Drops on the brain 1, Whitesurling 1.

In 1854 there were 72 burials in the churchyard. Among the causes of death given were:�Decline 20, Cholera 9, Age 9, Dysentry 5, Inflammation of the lungs 5, Contacted or contrac (t) 5, Accidents, Measles, Dropsy, Whooping cough, Water on the brain, 2 each, Heart Disease 1.

In 1926 there were 61 burials in the churchyard. Among the causes of death given were:�Old Age 16, Heart failure 12, Bronchitis 3, Stroke 2, Apendicitis 2, Pneumonia 2, Diphtheria, Sleeping sickness, Diabetes, Dropsy, Tuberculosis, 1 each.

In 1973 there were 38 burials:-

By the middle of the nineteenth century the old church, which does not seem to have had a specific name or dedication, needed replacement.

In his Memoir (see Appendix 5) Thomas Fagan states that in 1837, when he was writing, the side walls of the church were not perpendicular and were spreading either from age or bad architecture; the construction of galleries on the interior of the North and West walls must have added to the strain on the fabric. The church moreover must have been very overcrowded. Its external measurements are given by Fagan as 60 feet long and 23 feet 3 inches wide in the East end and 22 feet 3 inches in the West end. The internal area could not have been more than about 1,200 square feet and into this area according to Fagan were fitted 27 pews averaging 18� feet in length. When space is allowed for the Communion Table, font and pulpit a simple calculation will show how little free space there was; this contrasts with the situation 100 years earlier when a vestry minute of 1725 lists 19 pews in the church, including 4 in the chancel.

In a minute of 1864 we are told that the Vestry was convened -

The Vicar (Rev. Henry Stewart) reported that as long ago as 1858 negotiations had begun with the Marquis of Hertford requesting a grant of land and a contribution towards the erection of a new Church, the Ecclesiastical Commissioners having promised �2,000 if there were parochial contributions.

Dean Stannus, Rector of Lisburn, the Marquis' agent after an interview with the Marquis, reported that he would give the land but no contribution.

"A spot of ground in the field occupied by Mr. John Phillips was marked out and for long was regarded as the site but the necessary lease was never made out, the Dean urging that the Church should be built on another site or else on the site of the present Church which the Ecclesiastical Commissioners pronounced impossible. Equally impossible is it to have the New Church at any distance removed from the present situation as all the subscriptions were promised only on condition of vicinity thereto." '

"Nothing was therefore affected."

"The Dean, however, stated publicly to the Bishop that the vicar was holding up the building as he was ready to give him any field except Philips' and suggested the other side of the road known as Boomer's Hill."

"This was accepted by the vicar as satisfactory to the subscribers and the parishioners in general."

That would seem to have resolved the problems of a site for the new Church but six years later, in October 1870, we find that the vestry again returned to the problem.

"At a vestry meeting convened to consider what steps must now be taken in reference to the long since proposed new Parish Church for which above Eleven years ago the Ecclesiastical Commissioners promised a grant of above �2600 (sic) at the instance of the late Primate, and above ten years ago the Dean of Ross promised any site the Vicar of the Parish might select, but never fulfilled his engagement so that it now seems out of the question; through transfer of the Property to another family than that of the Seymours, it was resolved that under existing cⁱrcumstances as there appears no probability whatever of the promised site in the field adjoining to the Churchyard being obtained in the present year and all the grant agreed by the Commissioners of Church Temporalities depends upon the rebuilding being arranged before 1871 arrives, it is the unanimous opinion of the Vestry that the vicar should at once apply to the Commissioners to commence the work immediately in the Churchyard at the present site, together with any addition which can be made without interfering offensively with the existing graves."

Christ Church, Derriaghy, thus occupies its site at the result of difficulties in negotiating with the Hertford Estate. The attitude of the Dean of Ross is strange throughout. At the time, we learn from the vestry minutes that the parish was having similar problems in their dealings with him regarding the lease of the site for Stoneyford Church and School-house, resulting in the Church there being allowed to fall into considerable disrepair.

The Dean was rector of Lisburn from 1835 to 1876 having previously been rector of Ballinderry. The Deanery of Ross, County Cork, had no duties attached to it, nor was there any house for the residence of the Dean. He held the Deanery from 1830 to his death in 1876, while being rector of Lisburn.

No doubt we might find excuse for the Dean's attitude, if we knew the whole story. He must have been well on in years at the time of the Derriaghy negotiations. (It is suggested that bad relations with Henry Stewart, the rector, a very forceful character, were partly to blame).

Christ Church cost �3,600 to build. It seats about 500 people against 447 in the previous Church. The Foundation Stone (presumably buried underground) was laid by Mr. William Charley, J.P., Seymour Hill, on 24th July, 1871. A silver trowel used on the occasion is in the possession of the family. The date of consecration of the church was Thursday 17th October, 1872. The preacher was the Rev. Achilles Daunt, B.D., incumbent of St. Matthias, Dublin, and Chaplain to the Bishop of Meath.

The church bell has on it the date 1871 and the maker's name�Sheridan, Dublin, with the Irish phrase `ERIN GO BRAGH' and a harp. There is a tradition that this bell was intended for Hannahstown Roman Catholic Church and that the Christ Church bell was sent here.

The choir and organ were situated on the gallery until 1904 when several changes were made. The organ chamber was then added, the gift of Canon Stewart in memory of his parents, his father, the Reverend H. Stewart, having been Rector until his death a few months before the Church was built. A two-manual hand blown organ was installed and a raised platform to form a chancel and sanctuary was built. Choir stalls were added.

At the fiftieth anniversary in 1922 a brass eagle lectern was presented by James Stewart Reade and his wife. There are five memorial windows; the East window in memory of William Charley, J.P., Seymour Hill; the Pulpit window in memory of Thomas Henr^y Johnson, Ballymacash, and his children; the Gallery window in memory of Maria Corkin, grand-daughter of Dr. Cupples, Rector of Lisburn 17961835/6, of Ingram (a house on Harmony Hill, now demolished and until recently the home of the late Roger Johnson Smith); a North-West window in memory of the Johnson family, Ballymacash; the South wall window in memory of Edward Johnson Charley, Seymour Hill.

Removed in the recent Centenary renovations was a memorial on the East Wall to Miss Annie Helena Fletcher who died in 1838. It consisted of four panels on which were painted the Creed, the Lord's Prayer and The Commandments, set in a large wooden frame. (See Appendix 3).

The memorial had to be raised when the choir platform and sanctuary were installed in 1904. This caused difficulties in that it obscured the bottom of the East window. Since then, on a number of occasions, its removal was mooted but was not finally decided upon until 1972.

The new reredos, in memory of the late Mr. J. Frazer Larmor, is of much lighter construction. It includes a shelf or 're-table' on which flower vases can be placed.

The brass Alms dish was the gift of Isabel Ferrar in 1922. The Communion Silver, consisting of a flagon dated 1768, two chalices, one large and two small patens, and the Baptismal Font, were all in use in the previous church.

From the Consecration of Christ Church (1872) to the end of the Second World War (1945)

The chronological limits proposed for this chapter may perhaps seem unnecessarily arbitrary; but in fact the appearance and composition of the parish have been so dramatically changed since the end of the last war that the year 1945 might well be regarded as marking the end of an era. The period from 1872 to 1945 was indeed itself a time of significant change, though it was change at a much slower pace than after 1945. Stoneyford became a separate parish in 1887, taking with it several townlands from the mother church; the enormous Hertford estate was sold in 1899_, nine years after the death of Sir Richard Wallace, the last landlord, and almost three centuries after it had been granted to the first Conway; the long agitation for Home Rule eventually produced a partitioned Ireland; and two long world wars brought sorrow to many homes in the parish.

Extracts from the Minutes of the Vestry 1871-1945

The extracts from the vestry minutes which follow contain reference to some of these major matters as well as to the everyday affairs of the parish. We devote separate sections to the establishment of Stoneyford Parish and to Canon J. A. Stewart, curate for more than fifty years.

The minutes of 1871 and 1872 report very little about the building of the present church. Much of the Vestry's concern centred around the allocation of seats about which they sought advice from the Primate. Regarding the keeping of allocated seats, "his Grace does not recommend that the Seats should be kept vacant after the service is begun to suit the carelessness and dilatoriness of those who are late in coming to Church".

1873 Proposed that Mr. Richardson Long's service as Organist be continued at the rate of �20 per annum. Mr. Henry Boomer requested to act as Sexton at a Salary of �8.

Parochial Schoolmaster �4 for acting as Parish Clerk. Rector (Samuel M. Moore) reported that as requested he had visited the Establishment of Cox and Co. when in London and seen a Set of Tables containing the Creed, the Lord's Prayer and the Ten Commandments which he thought could be worked into wainscotting in the Chancel so as to meet the kind offer of Jonathan Richardson Esq. to expend �25 on a Memorial to Miss Fletcher.

Address presented to Sir Richard Wallace, Bart., M.P.,

9th September, 1873:

Sir,

We desire to offer to you our most sincere congratulations on your accession to the ownership of the Hertford Estate. This parish forms about one fifth part of the estate and comprises 12,480 acres with a population of about 4,700. It includes some of the most fertile lowlands in the Valley of the Lagan, and also a portion of interesting landscape such as Collin, Aughrim and White Mountain. The population is chiefly Protestant some of whom are descendants of those, who in times less tolerant than our own, were compelled to seek a refuge in these countries from persecution abroad, and brought with them much of their industrious habits and manufacturing skill, which have since then so distinguished this neigbourhood always noted for its superior husbandry.

Your recent arrival amongst us to take possession of this Splendid property was hailed by us in common with your other tenantry, and we may say all the residents in this district, as an event of great interest and importance.

The personal presence of one whose noble character and disposition_, as well as refined taste, as is so universally acknowledged must have a most beneficial influence, and we hope that you, Lady Wallace, and Captain Wallace, will be often amongst us and spend some portion of each year on your Irish Estate. In conclusion we offer our best and most cordial wishes for the happiness of yourself and family.

Saml. M. Moore, M.A., Vicar of Derriaghy

1874 Rector's income �350.

1876 Note to the Easter Vestry minutes.

I entered into residence at Vicarage on 29th May, 1876, the entrance Gate and avenue being subsequently completed, and Garden Wall connecting House with Lower Yard, also done at joint expense of the Vicar and Mr. William Charley. The planting, making of garden, railing off House and Curtelage from field and other improvements to complete the whole work, the cost of which was largely defrayed by the Charley family.

Saml. M. Moore

(until then he had lived at Rosemount, Dunmurry)

1881 In this year the metal numbered discs still marking some graves were bought for the churchyard.

The Vestry did not confine its discussions to the maintenance of the parochial buildings but recognized that it had a much wider responsibility in the community and so we find the following entry for 2nd April 1882.

Proposed by Rev. S. M. Moore.

Seconded by Rev. Joseph A. Stewart and passed unanimously That in the opinion of this Vestry the good results of the Irish Sunday Closing Act, so far exceeding the most sanguine expectations of its advocates, and so completely falsifying the desired predictions of its foes, afford the amplest justification both of its original adoption and of the demand for its renewal and extension, and we therefore respectfully but urgently call upon the Government to take the necessary steps for its reenactment and extension to the whole of Ireland next session.

Again in 1888 they feel compelled to express their opinion in another matter.

It was proposed by Mr. John MacHenry, C.E.

Seconded by Mr. James Philips, and passed unanimously "That this Select Vestry having heard with surprise and regret that a site for a new County Lunatic Asylum has been enquired for at Glenburn, Dunmurry, on land adjoining their Parish desire to express their strong disapproval of this proposal. While feeling deep sympathy with the unhappy inmates of such an Institution, the Vestry cannot see any necessity for its removal to this neighbourhood, and would suggest instead the enlargement of the present buildings, or the removal, if at all, to a less populous and improving neighbourhood.

No doubt with the advance of medical science we would have taken a very different view to-day.

1882 Sexton to be supplied with two bearers for carrying coffins at funerals in cases where necessary.

1886 �1000 left to the parish by Miss Mary Charley.

1887 Proposed to utilize the house at the Foot of the Hill for Parochial Reading-Room. (since demolished)

Derriaghy Young Men's Christian Society's Library had been established in 1862. The catalogue of books and the address to the members by the Rev. D. S. Donovan in 1865 are among the parish records. The Founder and President of the Library was Canon J. A. Stewart.

1888 Concern about finance.

Proposal to put a window in wall behind the pulpit (before the organ chamber was added).

1889 Proposed a collection be taken up at each service morning and evening on Sundays, and that the Special offertory at Holy Communion be handed to the Vicar for distribution to the poor.

Circular issued and collectors appointed to increase subscriptions.

Rector reported impossible to find "competent teachers to conduct the Parochial Schools as hitherto in connection with the Church Education Society and had reluctantly come to the determination to place the schools in connection with the National Board" ...

"Hoped in a few weeks to open the new school house with its complete staff of teachers". He appealed to the Vestry to support the effort to secure for the benefit of the Children of the Church especially, but also all comers, a superior education.

1889 Church repainted by Messrs. Bullick and Sons.

1890 Death of Mr. Richardson Long who was organist "for upwards of twenty years".

The following glowing tributes to both men show that the Vestry was not lost for words to express its feelings.

Sir Richard Wallace's death is felt by us, in common with all the Parishes of the Estate, of which he was a large hearted and liberal supporter.

A wide circle still mourns his loss, as that of one who devised, and with a Princely liberality supported, schemes of benevolence, and Public Utility, in various places and countries.

In the removal of Mr. William Charley, D.L., we feel that keen sense of personal loss, that his constant presence with us, warm attachment to his own Parish and its claims, earnest and unfailing efforts to promote its interests and prosperity, call forth.

By his own liberal gifts, and steady support, and the handsome contributions that passed thro' his hands, notably from members of his own family, we behold the evidences of his constant care, fore-thought, and wisdom, in our goodly Parish Church, Substantial Vicarage, and handsome Parochial School-House. His loss too will be more widely felt in our Diocesan Council, Synod, and the General Synod of our Church.

As a Public man many will miss his wise councils and liberal aid.

It was proposed by Mr. John MacHenry, C.E., seconded by Mr. Philip Chapman and unanimously resolved that the foregoing be entered in our minutes and that our chairman be requested to convey to Lady Wallace and Mr. Charley's family our deep and respectful sympathy and our earnest prayer that Almighty God will sustain and support them by His Grace in their sad bereavement.

At this first meeting of Select Vestry since the lamented death of the Lord Bishop of the United Dioceses, who since his consecration resided in this parish, worshipped, and often ministered in our Parish Church, we feel we cannot separate without placing upon record our deep sense of loss sustained by the whole Church of Ireland, and our own United Dioceses and Parish in Particular; and our deep sympathy with Mrs. Reeves, Miss Reeves, Mrs. Richardson and the other members of his family.

It was moved by the Vicar, seconded by Mr. John MacHenry, C.E., and passed unanimously.

That this expression of your feeling be entered on the minutes and a copy thereof conveyed to Major Reeves for communication to the bereaved members of our honoured revered and deeply lamented Bishop's family.

1892 The Vestry congratulated 'The Rev. Thos. J. Welland, D.D., on being chosen to be our bishop'.

That year we read for the first time of a congregational social and a children's entertainment, both organised by a Mr. John Robinson, who seems to have been entertainments organiser for a number of years. He died in 1894.

1893 The choir got free tickets and sang at the soiree and the curate, Mr. Woodward, gave the children a most amusing 'Magic Lantern Exhibition'.

1893 Sexton, Parish Clerk and Organ Blower reappointed at the same salaries.

The Sustenation Fund is falling behind and ways must be found to increase the number of subscribers.

1893 The West Window (the rose window) caused trouble. Miss Corken asked to contribute towards the cost of repairs but she declined. It was eventually fixed for �4 18s. Od.

1894 It was proposed, seconded and adopted that the General Synod be asked to amend Canon 36 as Security against evasion of the law.

(Canon 36 forbade the placing of a cross on or behind the Holy Table. In asking for this Derriaghy was 70 years ahead of the times as permission to have such a cross was not granted by the General Synod until 1964).

1895 Map of the graveyard not yet ready (begun in 1887) .

1896 Curatage built. Plans drawn up by Mr. John MacHenry, C.E.

1896 Organist resigns because Vestry complain that there is no weekly choir practice and the standard has been deteriorating.

Mr. W_. J. A. Roberts offered the post temporarily until the end of the year and to await confirmation of the appointment until New Year, and accepts. However, at Vestry meeting in December 1896 we find that a Mr. McBratney should be retained till New Year. He was eventually appointed at �20 per annum.

1897 Protest at the attempt to alienate the Erasmus Smith endowments (see under education).

1898 Death of Vicar � Canon Moore.

Graveyard still not mapped but matter left in the hands of Mr. John MacHenry.

1899 Map ready for claimants.

The sale of the Hertford Estate and the question of making permanent provision towards the endowment of the various churches upon the estate.

Mr. F. W. Capron, Estate Agent, proposed giving �300 3s. 4d. to the Representative Church Body. The Vicar and a deputation had this increased to �763. Mr. McBratney is refused a rise in salary and resigns. Mr. Robert Marks (?) appointed.

The Vestry left no one in any doubt where they stood in the political issues of the day, particularly at the end of last century.

Gladstone's first Home Rule Bill which failed to pass into law, being rejected by the House of Lords in 1886, is echoed in the Easter Vestry of that year:-

It was moved by Wm. Charley, Esq., seconded by Mr. David MacHenry and resolved "That this Easter Vestry of the Parish of Derriaghy desire to express our devoted loyalty to the Queen and Constitution and our dread of any movement of Repeal of the Legislative Union between Great Britain and Ireland. We feel that the existing laws for governing this country are founded on a desire to do justice and that if any real grievance existed the British House of Commons would be willing and able to examine into and rectify in a proper spirit without any interference with the Legislative Union. We also feel the movement for Separation being objected to almost unanimously by the Protestant population that there must be Something more than equal laws wanted by the Parnellite Party and that a desire for supremacy over everything British and Protestant is now evidently the real object of the Home Rule leaders in Ireland."

Later, in 1893, they recorded 'not one dissenting vote' against a Protest circulated to all parishes in connection with 'The Government of Ireland Bill'.

We, the Select Vestry of Derriaghy, in the Diocese of Connor, hereby declare our unswerving adherence to the principles set forth in the Resolutions unanimously adopted by the Bishops, Clergy and Laity of the Church of Ireland at a Meeting of the General Synod, specially convened for that purpose on the 23rd March 1886; and we, therefore, consider it a duty, pending the next Meeting of the General Synod, to protest without delay against the measure which has just been introduced into the House of Commons, under the title of "The Government of Ireland Bill". We are convinced�in common, as we know, with large numbers of our fellow-countrymen who do not belong to our Church�that the revolutionary changes proposed in that measure, if carried into effect, would seriously imperil the safeguards of civil and religious liberty, the security of property and life, and the integrity of the great Empire of which this United Kingdom is the centre. We also believe that these changes would tend to impoverish, if not expatriate, many of those on whose support the maintenance of our Church, under God, depends, and would thereby disable her in the efforts she is making to supply the spiritual needs of her people. And we make this protest, not as the adherents of a party, not on behalf of a class, but as members of a Church numbering more than 600,000 Irishmen who, while holding various political opinions, and following many different callings, are united in a common allegiance to the Throne, and a common desire for the honour and welfare of their native land.

This stand, together with that of many other parishes, was of no avail. The Liberal Government of Mr. Asquith succeeded in having the Home Rule Bill passed some thirty years later in 1914. But the Act did not come into operation for Great Britain was now at war.

1900 Garden extension to the Churchyard made. Glebe lands vested in the Representative Body.

1901 Choir get �6 for their excursion.

Sexton's salary increased by �4.

1902 "That the lodges at present meeting in the Old Schoolhouse viz. District L.O.L. No. 11 L.O.L. 137, L.O.L. 837, R.B.P. No. 2, and the band be permitted to carry out necessary repairs etc.

1902 Bishop suggests a new organ at the front of the Church. (At that time choir and organ were in the gallery). Decided that all seats should be free at Evening Prayer.

1902 The Rev. J. A. Stewart offers a new organ chamber in memory of his father's ministry.

1903 Choir platform proposal passed (�77).

Heating system changed but gratings in the aisle left to reduce expense.

Tender accepted for new organ �379.

1904 Old organ sold for �10 to Canon Kernan.

1905 James Hall resigns as organ blower and William Torney appointed.

All seats in church declared free.

1906 Parochial Library wound up and books given to the school.

1907 Edward Hull appointed sexton.

Proposed to place a memorial in the Church to the late Sexton Mr. Henry Boomer. �32 16s. collected. Plaque placed at West End of Church.

Mention made of Woodlands Mission Hall. (Situated opposite Carman's Row which was near Bell's Lane on the Belfast-Lisburn Road. Sunday School was held in the hall.)

�2 voted to clear the debt on it.

1908 Rev. J. A. Stewart appointed Canon of Kilroot.

1908 Death of sexton, Edward Hull.

Johnson Cairns appointed sexton.

Logan Cairns appointed organ blower.

William Wood appointed organist on the resignation of Robert Stewart who although appointed in 1890 was replaced in 1896. Apparently in the meantime he had been re-appointed.

1908 Benovelent Fund begun.

1909 Mr. Kerr is organist but resigns to go to All Saints, Belfast, and Mr. R. J. Field is appointed.

Much Vestry time was taken up with the allocation of seats, the transfer of burial rights and the problems of Parish finance.

Vestry minutes do not record the effect of World War I or the Irish Rebellion on the parish. But the War Memorial in the Church testifies to the many men who fought and those who died in France between 1914 and 1918, many being killed at the Somme in July, 1916. A number of them would have been members of the Ulster Volunteer Force which was formed with the intention of protecting the North in the event of the Home Rule Bill becoming law.

1917 Death on active service of Lieut. Edward Brown of Pond Park and 2nd Lieut. Joseph Laverty, Principal of Castlerobin National School.

1921 Curate (Rev. H. C. Marshall) shared with Lambeg parish because of lack of funds in the parish.

Miss Mills appointed organist fo St. Mark's.

1922 The Rev. H. C. Marshall leaves for England�thanked especially for his work among the young people. Church repainted (Messrs. Bullick & Sons) �151. 18s. 6d.

1922 Fiftieth Anniversary of consecration of the Church. Font moved to the West Door.

New brass Lectern presented.

Pillars covered in wood (work done by Mr. J. F. McCall).

War Memorial dedicated.

1926 Schools transferred to the Local Education Authority.

1932 Rangers' Cottage at the bottom of Church Hill sold for �45.

1934 Electric light installed in the Church, Vicarage and old School �182. Rev. C. I. Peacocke, rector.

1937 Proposed that a Hall be erected in memory of Canon C. E. Quin.

1939 �100 collected for the Hall.

World War II saw men of the parish again serving in the forces of the Crown; army, navy and air force. A list of names has been collected and although there is no war memorial, they have been recorded for the future. The parish shared in the war effort. Evacuee children were billeted with a number of families, troops were stationed in the area, the black-out and the shortages and restrictions were experienced in common with other parts. One part of the parish on which the scars of war still remain is Colin mountain which was a beautifully wooded area, still remembered as a place for picnics and family outings, now denuded of all trees and shrubs which were cut down as part of the war effort.

1940 Proposed that the Curatage be sold for �700 or over.

1941 Aughrim Hall used for Belfast Refugees.

1944 Vicar (J. G. King) raised the question of a place of worship in Colin and Castlerobin districts. Regarded as a matter of prime importance. Mr. Wm. Richardson thanked for his offer of a site for the proposed new church for Colin and Castlerobin districts.

Congratulations and good wishes to the Rev. J. L. Spence, B.D., on his appointment to Carnlough.

1945 Full lighting restored in Church (end of black-out). Miss Dickson resigns as organist.

Stanley Graham resigns as organ blower.

Mr. Caughey appointed organist.

When Stoneyford was made a separate parish in 1887 it was formed from the following parishes:�Tullyrusk, Derriaghy, Magheragall, Ballinderry and Glenavy. Derriaghy gave the following townlands:�Tornaroy, Slievenagravery, Slievenacloy, Upper and Lower Tornagrough, Upper and Lower Ballymacward, Island Kelly, Bovolcan, Drumankeily, with as much of the White Mountain as lies north of the road commonly called the Sheepwalk.

On 7th December 1837 a licence was granted to the "Rector and the curate of Derriaghy publicly to celebrate divine service in the public school room in Stoneyford, during the pleasure of the ordinary to serve the people of Stoneyford or Islandkelly, Ballymacash and Mullaghglass who are hindered by feebleness, infirmity or other good and sufficient cause from attending divine worship in the parish church."

St. John's Church, Stoneyford, was opened on 6th October 1841 by the Rev. Savage Hall, vicar of Derriaghy, and consecrated by Bishop Knox on 28th October 1874. It cost �554. 16s to build and holds 300 people. There were then 700 church people in the district.

In 1862 the Primate, as Patron of Derriaghy, consented to the Rev. H. Stewart endowing Stoneyford with a Tithe Rent Charge of �50. The rectory was also purchased in 1862.

The first rector of the parish was Rev. H. McKnight. The present rector is the Rev. D. Stranex.

The church was renovated in 1934 and again since Mr. Stranex became rector, when it was re-roofed, a new heating system and organ installed and the graveyard greatly improved.

The records of the parish for the years before it became a separate incumbency in 1887 are preserved at Derriaghy. The Vestry minute books tell of the protracted negotiations with Dean Stannus, agent for the Hertford Estate, in acquiring land at Stoneyford to build the church and school. Some of the remarks in the first preachers' book make interesting reading and reveal that relationships between vicar and curate were not always cordial. It would seen that a central figure in the dispute was the local schoolmaster, James Armstrong, who was also parish clerk. June 7th 1857, 'The clerk of the Church did not come to the Lord's Table. Present 238 people.' Henry Knox Hutchinson was then the curate of the Stoneyford district of Derriaghy. When Robert Lindsay arrived in 1858 things took a more serious turn. He would appear to have been a most popular curate. Con- gregations in 1860 were frequently over 300, sometimes over 400 and at his last service on the evening of 30th December over 500. The 'Observations' in the preachers book suggest tension mounting. Stoneyford preferred the curate to the vicar.

'The congregation have engaged to contribute annually the sum of �20 towards the clergyman's salary for the privilege of a Sunday Evening Service, and thereby exonerate the Rev. Henry Stewart, Vicar, from any expense whatever connected with the district of Stoneyford'. February 1st 1860.

'The Vicar came to do the duty at Stoneyford with the avowed intention of superseding Mr. Lindsay's services; but when he ascended the pulpit more than 300 of the congregation simultaneously got up and left the church'. August 26th 1860.

That Sunday Henry Stewart left blank the column for the number of those present! When Mr. Lindsay returned in the evening there were 427 in the congregation.

The same occurred on 25th November when the vicar next came back; the congregation walked out during the service. In the evening Mr. Lindsay had 485 present.

On 2nd December 1860 when the newly appointed curate of Derriaghy went to Stoneyford to celebrate Holy Communion the 'Observation' is "I could not think of administering the Sacrament of the Lord's Supper to-day in the present disturbed state of the congregation."

The climax came in December 1860. There is a full page of 'Observations'.

Since Easter 1860 I have administered the Communion of the Lord's Supper to 658 Comts. in Stoneyford Church, besides seven times privately for which I have received from Rev. Henry Stewart one dozen of pint bottles of wine. Dec. 27th 1860. R. Lindsay, Curate of Stoneyford.

The Vicar immediately below adds 'Quarts.' and continues�The Gentleman! wrote me he thought he had wine for the Administration in May. I then sent 12 quarts, not pints of wine, and was surprised when he wrote for more wine for October, for I am sure 6 quarts would have sufficed, and I concluded his pet schoolmaster Armstrong had stolen it. I cannot say what came of the remainder as Mr. L. acknowledges to have got 12 bottles which I can swear were not pints but quarts�he wrote to me that he would not apply the Church wine for private administration and I told him I should be ready to supply from my private Cellar what was necessary for the purpose. Where the fraud lies I do not pretend to say. H. Stewart. Vicar.

A few days later Mr. Lindsay left the parish to become curate of Lisburn Cathedral, congregations at once dropped to slightly over 100, sedom again reaching as high as 150 and observations came to an end, except for one a few years later, 'I found the book in this dirty state'. H. W. Lett.

CHRIST CHURCH SENIOR CHOIR WITH THE CLERGY AND BISHOP
AT THE CENTENARY SERVICE, 1972

Front row (from left). Rector, Mrs. Dawson, Miss Hilary Barr, ,Miss Patricia Glass, Miss Clare Glass, Mrs. Partridge, Mrs. Johnson, Miss Spence, Miss Margaret Hanthorne, The Bishop.

Middle row (from left): Rev. V .G. Stacey, Mrs. Barr (organist), Miss E. Waters, Mrs. Lloyd, Mrs. Hull, Miss Beattie, Mrs. Fell, Mrs. Gibson.. Mrs. Bell, Mrs. Jardine, Mrs. Kershaw, Mrs. Graham.

Back row (from left): Mr. S. Graham, Mr. T. Young, Mr. D. Johnson.. Mr. N. Smith, Mr. T. H. Lloyd, Mr. W. Beattie, Mr. G. Fell, Mr. W. Dawson.

Another remarkable person among the clergy of Derriaghy was Canon Stewart. He spent over fifty years ministry in the parish. He was curate from 1862-1863 and again from 1866-1915.

He was certainly the most wealthy. His Will published in 1915 gave the gross value of his estate at �107,788. 1s. 9d. During his curacy (he was never rector) he contributed to many parochial enterprises. The organ chamber was his gift, Ballymacash Mission Hall and Church were largely supported by him; he supplied a teacher for many years for Castlerobin School and, according to a newspaper cutting, for many years maintained at his own expense a scheme for pensions for the aged in his district.

He lived at Killowen House, now Killowen Hospital. Previously he had lived at Pond Park House. Many parishioners still recall the Canon, his wife and brother. He provided employment in Ballymacash for many families who helped to run and maintain the house and farm.

In his Will there are numerous bequests to local people and to many charitable and Church societies. His leaseholds at Cheapside, in London, inherited from his father, were left to a relative, the wife of George Bernard Shaw. But Derriaghy only features in �50 left for the poor of the parish.

At the death of his father, the Rev. Henry Stewart, rector of Derriaghy, in 1872, strong feeling was aroused in Ballymacash and Castlerobin because he had not been appointed to succeed him. We are told that some children were taken from Castlerobin school and sent to Stoneyford.

A few years ago a former parishioner in America sent a handbill which was distributed in the parish at the time. It stated that

A public meeting of the Parishioners of the Stoneyford District was held in Stoneyford Church upon Monday evening, the 27th of May 1872. Mr. John Maze, Jun., in the Chair; and owing to the indefatigable exertions of the Chairman, assisted by the expansive abilities of John Hunter Esq., there was a large attendance, and the following Resolution was unanimously adopted:

"Resolved � That we, the undersigned Parishioners of Derriaghy, solemnly pledge ourselves to use every legitimate means to frustrate the designs of William Charley, J.P., and his Colleagues, to destroy the peace and harmony of the Parish of Derriaghy; and we further pledge ourselves to continue our opposition so long as the nominee of the said William Charley, J.P. (the Rev. S. M. Moore) continues to fill the Pulpit of our Parish Church."

"The spirit of the above Resolution was fully appreciated by being immediately signed by large numbers".

The resolution, however, did not alter the choice of rector nor did it in any way affect Canon Stewart's work and interest in the parish, which continued for another forty years.

Canon Stewart is buried in the family vault at Killymoon (Cookstown) .

His wife outlived him by many years. She came under the influence of the sect of Rayburnites and attended their meetings regularly in Belfast. `Bishop' Rayburn was a very forceful American evangelist who settled in the city and died there aged ninety-four in 1930. In her latter days it is said that the old lady was persuaded to take up lessons on playing the harp to prepare for the next world! It is also reported that she died in poverty. She is buried in Derriaghy Churchyard in an unmarked grave.

Canon Stewart had family connections with Derriaghy, his kinsman, Colonel Stewart of Carrickfergus, having married a daughter of Robert Duncan of Magheralave. The John Hunter mentioned in the protest meeting was also a descendant of Robert Duncan, and William Charley's wife, Isabella, was a grand-daughter.

FROM 1945 TO THE PRESENT DAY

The period from the end of the Second World War has seen changes in the parish greater perhaps than any it has experienced since the seventeenth century. In the pages which follow will be found a brief but it is hoped accurate account of the vast house building programme which has brought thousands of new inhabitants to the parish, the industrial development which has provided work for some of them, and the formation of new parishes to provide for their religious needs. In addition the vestry minutes are continued in extract form up to the culminating point of the celebrations in 1972 of the centenary of the consecration of Christ Church.

Housing Development and Consequent Parochial Changes
The first major house building projects were the Killeaton Estate built by Messrs. J. F. McCall & Sons in the 1950's and the Fairview Estate beside it; they alone added more than 200 homes to the parish. A further 300 or so were provided in the Milltown Estate built by the Rural Council in the early 1960's.

A Curate's bungalow was built at St. Andrew's and, with the help of a Stewardship Campaign, a new and commodious parochial hall was built at Christ Church. It was opened by the late Mr. J. Frazer Larmor who, over his lifetime, had devoted much time and energy to the parish as Sunday School teacher and lesson reader, as well as holding, at some time, practically every lay office. He was a most generous contributor to many parochial and community causes.

The Moss Road and Belsize Road areas, where house building has continued for a number of years, became an independent parish in October 1963 under the Rev. Bertran Livingston. It is now served by St. Columba's Church Hall and has taken the name Derryvolgie. Lambeg Presbyterian Church, Minister the Rev. Alex Watson, was built on Moss Road in 1965 to serve this area.

In January 1967 the area served by St. Mark's, Ballymacash, became independent under the Rev. T. F. Callan, who had been curate there. A new rectory was purchased to replace a house bought a few years earlier. A new church is in process of erection, to replace the existing one, in the field which had been bought in 1961. Ballymacash is a fast growing suburb of Lisburn. The first rector, the Rev. T. W. W. Jones, was appointed in 1970. He is a former curate returned to the area, having been there when the present Church was consecrated in 1954. It had been built in 1892, largely at the expense of Canon J. A. Stewart of Killowen House, but only dedicated at the time. Previously services had been held in Ballymacash Mission Hall, now converted into a private house, on Nettlehill Road.

Two other boundary changes of recent years can be noted. Seymour Hill, formerly the estate of the Charley family, was ceded to Dunmurry parish in 1956 as building began on the estate. The first service was held in Kilmakee Orange Hall that year. St. Hilda's Church Hall was built to serve the community. On 1st August 1964 it became a separate parish, taking the name Kilmakee. Now a new Church of modern design has been built. The first incumbent was the Rev. J. Moore. The present incumbent is the Rev. R. S. J. H. McKelvey. A Presbyterian and a Methodist Church have also been built. A Free Presbyterian Church is in process of erection.

The area occupied by Thiepval Barracks, Lisburn, was transferred by the Diocesan Council to Lisburn Cathedral in the early 1960's. The parish thus reduced consists of the townlands of Ballycollin, Mullaghgass, Poleglass, Lagmore, Killeaton, Derriaghy, parts of Aghalislone,  Magheralave and Whitemountain. Other townlands were detached to form Stoneyford Parish in 1887.

The most recent development in the parish is the growth of a large estate to number almost 3,000 homes at Stewartstown Road and called Twinbrook, begun in 1970. It was considered unwise to build a Church in the area as it is near existing Churches and it was felt that the Church of Ireland Community would not be large.

The present arrangement is that, together with the Methodist Church and the Presbyterian Church, we rent a portable prefabricated building, which we share as a Church. Services are conducted on a rota basis. Until July 1973 we rented a similar building as a parochial hall. The Church furniture has been provided from the old St. Hilda's Church Hall.

The present troubled state of the province has had an adverse effect on the number of Protestant families coming to live in the estate but it is hoped that enough people will remain to enable the Church to be maintained in use.

(Since writing the above, it was decided to close the Church as from the end of November 1974, three years from its opening).

Christ Church Parochial Hall

Before 1945 the parish was a quiet agricultural area. The older industries of weaving, corn milling, paper making and spade forging had closed down and there was little scope for employment except on the land. Today Derriaghy is an area of high employment. Some firms have moved out of Belfast and built premises at Derriaghy, and a number of firms completely new to this country have come to Derriaghy. On the Industrial Estate, still growing, we already have such firms as Electro Photonics, Gascoigne Gush and Dent, Garrett, Grundig, Tilley Lamp, Wandleside Cables, Matbro, Textile Prints, Dunelin Engineering, Hire Plant, Hazlett's, H. R. Ayton, Rowntree's, Lavery's Bottling Plant and Kraft Cheese Depot. One of the largest Supermarkets in Northern Ireland now stands on what was, until recently, McGredy's Rose Garden, beside the Rose Garden Centre.

The latest development for the area is an elaborate new road system which is still at the planning stage.

If the various plans materialise (but they change frequently!) a motorway will virtually cut the parish in two, coming from Black's Road, Dunmurry, and crossing the Barnfield Road near Milltown House. The 'osier cross' at Christ Church is to be replaced by a roundabout with a new road trisecting the farm at Derriaghy Cottage and crossing Belsize Road with another new road forming the 'main artery' of the new Twinbrook Estate while to the north of Stewartstown Road in the townlands of Poleglass and Lag-more it is proposed to build another housing and industrial complex for almost 20,000 people.

Doubtless the making of these roads and houses will provide much work for the quarries of the parish at Castle-robin and Colin, but they will change yet more the familiar look of the district.

During the past twelve years the considerable changes in parish life, and the building and centenary programmes undertaken ,have meant much work and responsibility for members of the Select Vestry.

A warm tribute is due to the succession of church wardens, to the Freewill Offering recorders, the honorary treasurers; to those who have given liberally to their time and expert knowledge; and, not least, to the honorary secretary of the Select Vestry, the late Mr. T. J. Kelly, who held office continuously from 1964 until the end of 1973 when ill-health forced him to resign. He died on 8th April 1974.

In all this the Vestry has had the enthusiastic support of the parishioners who, through stewardship campaigns, special donations, fetes, concerts, and other efforts, enabled the work to be done.

We are conscious of the fact that buildings do not make a parish and that success it not to be equated either with feverish activity or a healthy balance sheet. A parish is primarily a community of people and its value can only be measured by the extent to which parishioners accept and fulfill their Christian calling and responsibilities. All else is subservient to this end.

The new generation of Derriaghy people will find themselves living in a neighbourhood which will be scarcely recognisable from the quiet country parish of pre-war years.

One thing, however, they will find there still is the parish church reminding them that the Gospel does not change; the slender spire pointing them up to higher things and the bell calling them to the worship of Almighty God whose children we are and to whom we must all give an account of our stewardship.

1946 Rector, Rev. J. G. King, appointed to Larne.

Rev. P. A. G. Sheppard appointed rector.
Roy Gibson resigns as organ blower and E. Parte is appointed.
Rev. J. R. Musgrave and Rev. D. J. O. Barr welcomed to first vestry meeting.

1947 Mr. John Waring bequeaths �2000 to Colin District for Church Hall.

1949 Old Stables converted into a parochial hall by the Vicar and voluntary workers.

Col. H. R. Charley proposed that all members of the Select Vestry should be prepared to take their turn in reading the lessons at the services in the Church and the Vicar and Church wardens should keep a roster.
Proposed that an electric blower be installed for the organ.

1950 Decided to purchase Mr. Wm. Richardson's field for the proposed new Church hall for the Colin and Castlerobin district of the parish.

1951 Credence Table presented by Mr. K. D. Levis in memory of his mother.

1952 Resignation of Mr. Caughey as organist. Resignation of Miss Y. Balmer as orgainst of St. Mark's. Miss Sheila Spence appointed organist at Christ Church.

1953 Plans for the Extension of St. Mark's, building of Colin Church and the Canon Quin Hall.

Vicar reported on new housing throughout the parish.

1953 John White Megarry appointed sexton.

1954 St. Mark's Church consecrated.

1955 T. W. Rodgers appointed sexton � resigned same year.

Mr. H. W. Dean appointed sexton.

1956 Mr. S. Keery appointed sexton.

1957 Opening and Dedication of St. Andrew's Church Hall, Colin, Friday 21st June, 8 p.m.

First Chapel wardens: Messrs. J. McKinstry and Wm. Richardson. Miss A. Orr who had been organist at Aughrim Hall appointed organist of the new Church Hall. Mr. R. Quinn appointed sexton.

Death of Mr. Arthur Murtagh. Many tributes to his outstanding work were paid by members of the vestry. He had been secretary for ten years and had scarcely missed a meeting. For many years, helped by Mr. M. Fleming, he had been registrar of the graveyard. He was also synodsman and churchwarden.
Men's Fellowship begun. (Indoor Bowling 1958).
Canon Quin Memorial Hall dedicated.
Subscriptions to erect a hall in memory of Canon C. E. Quin had been collected in the late 1930's and plans for a building behind the rectory had been drawn up. World War II meant a delay of almost 20 years and abandonment of the original plans and site. The present Quin Hall, on the site of the old 1830 school, was planned and built of artificial stones especially constructed by Messrs. J. F. McCall and Sons.

1958 Mothers' Union Branch begun. (Mrs. Magill, enroling member) .

1959 Mr. Wm. Glass resigns as secretary of the Vestry Housing Development at Moss Road.

Reported that bus from Moss Road was running at a loss and should be taken off.
Question of a church site for the area raised by the Church Extension Committee but the Vestry did not approve such a project.

1960 November � The Rector, The Reverend P. A. G. Sheppard left the parish to become rector of Ballydehob in Co. Cork.

The Vestry wished him well and thanked him for his service to the parish during his time both as curate and rector.

1961 The Rev. W. N. C. Barr welcomed as rector.

Field at St .Mark's purchased (�950).
Plans for curate's bungalow at St. Andrew's and new parochial hall at Christ Church discussed.
Consecration of Graveyard extension.
Stewardship Campaign by "Wells, Fund Raising Company".
Curate's Bungalow contract placed (�2,945).
Two plots in the graveyard reserved for the burial of ashes after cremations.

1962 Miss E. Refausse resigned as Freewill Offering Treasurer for St. Mark's.

Miss K. Hayes resigned as Freewill Offering Treasurer for Christ Church.
Extension of St. Mark's Parochial Hall.
Decision to purchase a curate's house at St. Mark's.

1963 Moss Road area became a separate parish, taking the name Derryvolgie.

1964 Sanctuary carpet made and presented by Col. M. Rea.

1965 Work commenced on the parochial hall at Christ Church. Total cost expected to be about �20,000 including furnishings.

First Broadcast Service from Christ Church.
W. Burrows took up duty as sexton.

1966 Presentation to Mr. Logan Cairns who was associated with the choir for over fifty years.

Oil-fired heating plant installed in Christ Church.
Miss Sheila Spence resigned as organist and was succeeded by Mrs. Barr who agreed to act temporarily; (still at the manual).
Sanctuary kneelers made by a group of ladies, under the guidance of Mrs. Rea; dedicated by the Rural Dean, Canon R. C. R. Ellis.
New Parochial Hall at Christ Church dedicated in October.

1967 Ballymacash became a separate parish and its parochial boundaries were decided upon.

Lisburn Rural Deanery divided to become Lisburn and Derriaghy Rural Deaneries, Derriaghy being composed of seven parishes, Dunmurry, Kilmakee, Lambeg, Derryvolgie, Glenavy and Derriaghy.

1968 R. Quin, first sexton of St. Andrew's, died.

1969 Flower Festival held in Christ Church. Her Excellency The Lady Grey, wife of the last Governor of Northern Ireland, paid an official visit to the Festival.

1970 Branch of the Flying Angel League (Missions to Seamen) formed, Mrs. Surgeon, secretary.

John Herron resigned as Sunday School superintendent on leaving the parish and was succeeded by William Scully.

1971. Presentation to Jim Fleming on the completion of twenty-five years as leader of the Cub Pack.

Twinbrook temporary church and church hall came into use in October, shared with the Methodist and Presbyterian Churches: organist Mrs. Bethel, morning services average eighty people.
Because of the escalation of violence in the province and particularly in Belfast since 1969, contingency plans were made to house evacuees in the parochial halls. Sympathy was expressed with those who suffered injury and bereavement in the continuing bombings and shootings and with those who had lost property.

1972 Thrift Shop (in Lisburn) made �840 for the Centenary Fund.

Grand total for the fund was almost �8,000.
Centenary of Christ Church celebrated on Sunday, 15th October (two days early!).

St. Andrew's Church Hall And Curate's Bungalow	St. Andrew's Choir With Vestry Members

(Left to right): Mr. D. Thompson, Mr. W. McCall, Mrs. J. Dunn, Miss V. Addis, Rev. V. G. Stacey, Miss A. Morrow, Miss S. Dunn, Mrs. N. McCaughey, Mrs. S. Orr, Mrs. A. Russell, Mrs. J. Kirkwood (organist), Mrs. W. Fletcher, Miss J. Dunn, Mrs. T. Field, ,Mrs. E. Ingram, Mrs. B. Morrison, Mr. W. Richardson, Miss C. Gordon.