Millvale, Bessbrook

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Millvale is a townland approximately 1 mile from Bessbrook in County Armagh, and the town of Newry.

The area derives its name from the large number of mills, mainly Linen that were set up in the early 1800s. The Camlough River here provided a quick source of power through water wheels. Most of these have been now demolished, the latest being Baillies Foundry. This was an impressive ruin. A six storey granite building, originally constructed in 1800 or so. This fell derelict in the late 1960s. Up to its recent demolition its still contained the rusting ruins of all its lathes and machinery.

[edit] Places of interest

  • The main claim to fame of the area is the local public house, the Millvale Arms. This is locally known as the Pit. The story goes that in the late 19th century a Cock Pit existed to the rear of the pub. Here locals made bets on cockerals fighting in an enclosed pit, thus the name. The Quaker community who set up the neighbouring village of Bessbrook, had a policy called the three P's Policy. This meant, no Pubs, no Police, or no Pawn Shops in the village. As such the Pub in nearby Millvale which was just outside Bessbrook fared very well.
  • The Old Beetle Mill at Millvale crossroads which was built in 1795 does however remain. This building still stands proud despite closing in 1940.
  • Millvale is also well associated with railway history, the 18 arch viaduct of the main Belfast to Dublin railway line is one of the most prominent features of the area. Local legend is that one construction worker died for each arch on the project.
  • The Doctors Hill in Millvale is also well known. The large old house that stands at the bottom was originally the local Doctors Surgery.
  • In more recent times the area is infamous for the Murder of 4 RUC Policemen at the Millvale Crossroads by a remote controlled bomb on the 17th April 1979.