Ballymagorry


Ballymagorry or Ballymagory is a small village and townland in County Tyrone, Northern Ireland. It is west of Artigarvan and north of Strabane. In the 2001 Census it had a population of 565. It lies within the Strabane District Council area and lies on the River Glenmornan.

History

It has been a settlement since Plantation times, being founded in the early 17th century by Scotsman Sir George Hamilton of Greenlaw who died around 1654, and whose brother was James Hamilton, 1st Earl of Abercorn. Within two generations his lands had been consolidated into the Manor of Cloghogall within the extensive Abercorn estate. The village is known as Bellymagarry in Ulster-Scots.

Transport

The area was once served by rail with Ballymagorry railway station run by the County Donegal Railway on the section from Strabane railway station to Londonderry Victoria Road in Derry line. Ballymagorry station opened on 7 August 1900 but was shut on 1 January 1955. The village lies on the main A5 trunk road between Strabane and 'Derry.

Demography

19th century population

The population of the village decreased during the 19th century:
Year184118511861187118811891
Population213169181155127106
Houses463939373125

21st century population

Ballymagorry is classified as a small village. On Census day there were 565 people living in Ballymagorry. Of these:
The townland is situated in the historic barony of Strabane Lower and the civil parish of Leckpatrick and covers an area of 289 acres.
The population of the townland increased slightly during the 19th century:
Year184118511861187118811891
Population6546718011866
Houses121113142115

Sport

Ballymagorry is home to Fox Lodge Cricket Club.