Ballymahon

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Ballymahon (Irish: Baile Uí Mhatháin) is a small town in the southern part of County Longford, Ireland. Ballymahon derives its name from Gaelic Baile Mathuna Town of Mahon. Mahon was a western chieftain who fought a battle in the vicinity of Ballymahon at Shrule, in Irish Sruaith Fhuil, River of Blood. Mahon defeated O'Rourke of Cavan at this Battle and laid claim to lands in the area. Hence the town of Mahon originated.

1 Demographics
2 Geography
3 Buildings of note
4 Transport & communications
5 People
6 Culture & sport
7 See also
8 External links

[edit] Demographics

As stated in the 1996 census, Ballymahon has a population of just over 1,500 and growing fast.

[edit] Geography

The river Inny, a tributary of the river Shannon, flows westwards through Ballymahon in the direction of Lough Ree.

[edit] Buildings of note

Ballymahon Market House is a 3 bay 2 story building currently used as a library.

[edit] Transport & communications

Ballymahon is on the N55 road, a major route leading from Athlone, about 12 kilometres to the south, towards Belfast and Northern Ireland. The county town of Longford lies about 15 kilometres to the north-west.

[edit] People

It was the home of the writer Mary Flynn, author of the well-known children's book Cornelius Rabbit of Tang
It was also the home of the 19th century patriotic poet John Keegan "Leo" Casey.
The author Oliver Goldsmith was born in the nearby townland of Pallas.