What was 'The Markets' like in the past, and how are residents of the markets still keeping the memories of the old Markets alive, dispite all the redevelopment?

Your Responses:

Pat Mc Guinness - Aug '08
Hi Alicia Dalton, Good to see we have inventors in the markets. My granny invented colour television ,or so she thought. She taped together the wrappers of Lucozade bottles and put them over the tv screen to give a gold effect. She also ventured with blue & green coloured film. As this was back in the days of Emergency Ward 10, this was a good achievement ,1955.Those were the days.Thank you to Alex Smylie for the thoughts on my sister Roisin

H Irwin - Aug '08
Those were the days!

Frances Flannigan/Kearns - Aug '08
Hi Liam, I was glad to see that my mail went on site so fast,thank you guys. Well I've known your mother since I was a teeny weeny girl we all grew up together. My sister Annie went around with May and Margaret Mc allister they had a great time. Your mother and I got engaged on the same day, I wonder if she remembers that. Tell her I said Hi and I hope to see her next year .I was home one year and didn't get to see her as she was visiting you.

Deirdre Barr Kushner - Aug '08
Hi, my name is Deirdre Barr Kushner and this message is for Margaret Conlon Murray formerly of 4 Stanfield Street - Margaret if you read this it would be great to hear from you. I can be reached at Belfastcitygirlatyahoodotcom - or just leave your email address at this site.

Frances Flannigan/Kearns - Aug '08
Hi Magdalene Ross/Kennedy ,Trying to get in touch with you but this site is very slow in putting answers up,now they probably wont put mine up.ha ha!!! It is great to see so many people I know on the site Margaret Hamill I worked in Muntons in the 50s along with Eileen Hanvey and Eileen Lundy I also remember Mary Parker she really was something.I will write more later hoping this is put on soon as I would really like to be in touch with you .My name is Frances Flannigan/Kearns.

Alex Smylie - Aug '08
To Pat McGuinness. Pat, it was with sadness , that I learnt from this site of the passing of your sister Roisin. As 10 year olds all the boys in our street were mad about Roisin. She had fantastic blond hair and the looks, that had all the boys arguing, as to who fancied her the most . Those were the days. (The last time I saw her was about 1972 at a dinner along with Nell Moss. I have been living in Dublin since 1977) Roisin has gone to her eternal reward. May she rest in peace.
Please pass on my condolence to your family.

Liam Smith - July '08
Dolly/Francis Flannigan I'm also a Smith from Stanfield st,the markets, now living in USA Springfield, Mass. outside Boston. My ma May Smith spoke of u Flannigan girls all the time.In fact I just spoke to her today and was telling her about this site, She told me to go on and say hello to you. To Magdalene Ross I used to work for your da Barney when I was a kid. I know your nephews Harry Dorrian, Dennis,(r.i,p)and Bernard, And to margaret Murrayi am 20 minutes from Hartford conn. hope to hear from someone

Dolly Flanagan - July '08
Magdalene Ross I wrote to you 3 weeks ago on here .you can get in touch with me Dolly737 at aol dot com

Mark Flynn - July '08
Does anyone remember Mr Mc Cann P.E teacher in the 60's at St Augustines and Mr Burns teacher around the same time. I am trying to track them down. If anyone does remember them or knows how I can contact them please email me at markbmflynn21 at aol dot com

Renee Glasser - July '08
Fancy meeting you here Rosie Leavey! I have thought of you so often and wondered where you were. I'd love you to get in touch.

Marie Ferguson (now Downey). I was a neighbour of your Dad's and he was such a lovely person. He was quietly spoken and a gentle man. I knew the whole family, of course, and had a special soft spot for your grandmother, she was so warm and friendly - just like a 'Marketeer'.And hello to Magdalen Ross/Kennedy. It's time we met again - get in touch with Bernie and we'll arrange it all!Love to you all.

Alex Smylie - July '08
To Sean Mc Grady , Sean I remember your Dad he was a foreman in the despatch in Inglis. You have brought back a few memories about the two pounds. Now days they are all termed 800 grams loaves Its funny how we all seem to see the rosy side of events back then. You were right about walking around the streets in the small hours, during the troubles, It was always an uneasy feeling. I remember as a young shift manager leaving the bakery after Midnight and all the street lights were out. You might have heard a noise and it would have been an army patrol with soldiers lying in the various doorways in Eliza Street.

Magdalene Ross/Kennedy - July '08
My name is Magdalene Ross/Kennedy i just heard about this site and checked in to see if there were any contributers who jogged my memory. Right away I spotted the FLANAGHAN girls Frances, Dolly, and I think there was another Annie. My late sister Ann Ross/Dorrian went about with Frances Flanaghan/ Kearns. My dad Barney was a well known Market man, he was an ex boxer and loved, The Trotting sport . He raced in that sport a lifetime, and passed on his love of the Harness Racing to my three brothers, Harry, Barney jun and Michael. Sadly Harry, and Michael are both dead as is my sister Ann, I can remember Micky their father corresponding with my dad when he went to America. I also remember thinking how lovely my sister and her friends Frances the two Eileens and Alice rooney were i was younger and thought they were like film stars. Its nice to know you are all alive and well, and have not forgotten the Market singular not plural as another Market person so rightly pointed out!
So good luck and good health to you all. I think I will keep an eye on this site, I found it very interesting.
Hello RENEE McRandle - sorry Renee dont know the new surname but Congratulations and Best Wishes . Magdalene Ross/Kennedy Dunmurry

Alicia McMullan (nee Dalton) - June '08
Hello to Madeline Flannigan!!!!
I remember you as the inventor of 'flavoured crisps', Remember how you used to put crisps into a bowl and then shake some vinegar over them?- Long before we had so many to choose from. Hope you are keeping well. Love to all in California

William Gray - June '08
I love the markets and all the people that live there. I have many relations in it but I would just like to say get the old videos and pictures up and running so that I can remember things I am a 107 years old and bursting to see it before I hit the can. I'm from America my name is William Gray reply back soon please.

SALLY MCCRORY NEE MC QUEEN - June '08
HI CAN ANYONE HELP? LOOKING FOR JOHN MCMULLEN - BROTHERS NAME DOUGLAS - LAST KNOWN ADDRESS BELVUE ST SHANKILL RD PARENTS NAME ROBERT MAGARET FORMERLY OF 127 CUPER STREET BELFAST

Jimmy Mc Dowell -June '08
my 1st job was as a message boy in 1944 was with Stokesberry's of Corn Market (next door to the Imperal cinema) head butcher was a man (fellow) called Sean McCabe he lived in Eliza Street he at that time was an all Ireland Amatuer Ballroom Champion , there was Charlie Moore who I met years later working in a butchers shop at the top of the Castlereagh Road when I was working as a cable jointers mate that was in the early 60's he remembered me , I had earlier known a brother of his ,'Darkie' Moore when I was an apprentice Plater in the Shipyard'I met Darkie' again some time later as a 'Trolley-bus driver'.,Then there was Jackie Carson (I'm nearly sure of that) he lived in Little Joy Street . Lastly and possibly the only one living today was Peter O'Neill he live in the street off the Falls Road before the Govenoer Road can't remember its name sometimes I got Heckled in a reasonable fashion by Jackie as I was a wee Prod and all the boys weren't Peter always seemed to come to my rescue I was pretty naieve about such things at the time anyway , but I learnt that my first job with Catholic people stood me in good stead for the rest of my life I thought they were great thank goodness I'm now an out and out agnostic no lets be down to earth truthful agnostic to most Christian people wheiter Catholic or Not give one a chance ,I'm in no uncertain terms a wholehearted ATHEIST and I believe that any godleness comes from our own consciencessness within ourselves and any salvation we seek is in the here and now , we can only live NOW lets all consentrate on the now not the morrow cause like some old says 'it never comes ' boy I do go on . I found this site and found it great I hope i've not ruined it for anyone I just love messing about on the computer but mine has all but given up the ghost and I've just finished my first computer course and have found out how little I know about the whole opperation but it is still fun AND HOW I CAME TO WRITE THIS , IS I FOUND THIS SITE AS I FIND MOST SITES ACCIDENTLY AND THE MERE FACT THAT SEAN LIVE IN ELIZA STREET AND THAT THERE IS NOW A RAILWAY STATION WERE THERE USE TO BE AN ABBITOR I ALSO SEEM TO REMEMBER A BIG BIG STATIC WATER TANK SOMEWHERE ABOUT THE PLACE , COULD BE WRONG ABOUT THAT , SAYING THAT I REMEMBER SOMETHING OF DAYS GONE BY "I MAY NOT BE ALWAYS BE RIGHT , BUT I'M NEVER WRONG bye-bye Jimmy

May Crawford nee Allen - June '08
Can anyone remember Hugh Crawford worked as baker in Inglis Bakery married May Allen? Her sister Nancy married Bobby MacDowell? In 1958 Hugh and May moved to Whitefield near Manchester and would love to hear from anyone who remembers them.
Ellen Barry, Charlie Hamill, John Morgan, Tim Lavell, Patsy Dobbin all worked in Geordie Jenkins dept. Also Paddy Lewsley and Paddy and Rosie Burns.
W e would love to hear from any of them - May lived in Holywood

Brian Jackie Adams - June '08
I remember my dad buying me a white rabbit, which we called "Blackey", at Smithfield market, way back, around 1956 and it inly cost 2/6 - (12.5p nowadays). We used to travel to my grannies house at 25 Parkgate Gardens for tea and cakes and then we would all go shopping to the markets. In those days, 1950's, the markets were a magical place to be. It had its' own special "smell". Afterwards travelling back to Coleraine on the old steam train. Ah, those were the days.
I think its so unfair that alot of todays youngsters did not get brought up in those days enviroment - if they were, the country would be a better place.

Pat Mc Guinness - June '08
Hello everyone,
I have been reading the website this past lot of months.I recognized some of the names especially my brother Sean & my sister Roisin.We are the Mc Guinness family from 80 Eliza St,facing the bakery.My granny was Rosie Myles who lived at the corner of keegan St & Stewart St.I knew the Dobbins,Callaghans,Mc laughlins & Branneys who lived Nos 2-10 Stewart St.I also had a "granny" Mac Namara who lived in Eliza st 60 0r 62.She used to keep lodgers and I ran her messages to Cromac St, Stewarts,Mc Cafferys,Nicolls,Neesons & jimmy Lundys to name a few.Sadly my sister Roisin has just Passed away after a short illness,She would have been known for going to the Plaza with Nell Moss,Peggy O Neill,Rita Leatham,Mary McNally and others. Those were the days.

Jude Whyte - Mar '08
I was delighted to read comments from Kevin Barr Feb 2008 about my father and grandfather who he knew. I am so sorry not to be looking on the site on a more regular basis as i would have loved to meet this man who knew my familty so well. Did you remember any of the girls especially Peggy, my mum? I would hear from you about her some time. Thank you!
judewhyteatirelanddotcom

Kate Stow/McReynolds - Feb '08
Hiya Peter, you mentioned the Dobbin family, my Auntie Alice Stow is married to Stephen Dobbin who is Kay's son. My daddy's family & my mammy's mother is also from the market. My daddy's name is Tony Stow (RIP) & my wee granny was Lily Barr until her own name Moore was her married name. My granda was from sailor town originally, he was a sign writer & painted all the shop signs. My granny Barr's sister is still living in the market - Jean McCormack. Jean's the only member of my granny's family left.

Margaret Murray - Feb '08
Hi, my name is Margaret Murray nee Conlon. I grew up at 4 Stanfield Street - one of nine children. My parents were Mary and John. My sister Jean told me about this site. This has been a joy perusing old names and memories. I live in Connecticut in the US since 1968. Would be happy to hear from old neighbours. I went to Saint Monica's with the afore mentioned Deirdre Barr, we lost contact about ten years ago. Deirdre if you see this contact me.

Raymond Mc Convey - February '08

hi my mother came from Eliza Street. She lived in number 64, her name is Philomena Mc Kay. She is looking for a photograph of the house which was opposite- Inglis Bakery maybe. Somebody might have a photo?

Deidre Barr Kushner - February '08
just checked in after months and am delighted to see listed here old friends: The Maguires, and The Conlons. Hello to our next door neighbor at 48 Cromac St. --- Sylvester Maguire - I am the youngest of the Barr's -- - Deirdre - I have a lot of memories of you and your dad Eugene. He was always good at giving us dressed up kids at Hallowen pennies. In those days Syl. your phone was our phone.
--- The Conlons - of course I remember you Charlene- your mom - the lovely Margaret and daddy Billy - your lovely sister and tall handsome brother. I have pictures of all of you in my album to remind me of our good times - I am ready for an update. Your mom's granny who was especially nice to me as a child is always remembered fondly.
The Stow family --- I went to school with an Emily Stow - 50's & 60's - is this the same family?

Kevin Barr - Feb '08
Hi' Syl Maguire glad to hear you are still alive and well and your memory is still pretty good , I left for Canada on the 14 Feb. 1972 and both my sister Deirdre and brother Paddy have contributed to this site and I like to check the site from time to time and I was truly amazed to read your letter and also one from Jude Whyte , I knew her father well ISADORE(R.I.P.) he still is the only person I have known with that name also knew your uncle Rusty Carey he was my patrol leader in the scouts also knew your grandfather Dan and his two brothers they used to drink together and the family trade mark was the bright red hair. I will be back in Market on Friday 22 Feb. 2008 hope to see some old faces in the Variety Market, see you there Kevin Barr

Georgie - Feb '08
hi my name is georgie my grandad was from the markets his name was george stow he was the scrap man who owned the yard in McAuley Street... my daddy was tony stow i used to loved going to the yard to see my daddy and tap him for his odds i miss all that we used to say dad gis ur odds and he used to say aye am walking on them haha i loved them wee sayings some of my daddys sisters still live there well theres only 1 left my aunt lizzy stow she married stephen mc fall his family r market people to i used to love going down the market am from the lower ormeau road and have lived here all my life any old pics i would love to see anything any 1 has of the markets or the ormeau road plzzzzzzzz thanks all xxx georgie

Betty Hamilton - Jan '08
Hello my name is Betty Hamilton and I went to the Convent School on Sussex Place from 1961 - 1968, I remember Sister Vincent, Miss Cunningham and Miss Early. Katrina Baird was my close friend. I probably haven't seen nor heard of her in about 40 years. I lived off the Ormeau Road and was a cousin of all the McHughs who lived in Catherine Sreet on the Market. Memories would be appreciated I now live in the USA in Connecticut but my e-mail is as below
erogers127atcoxdotnet

John Campbell - Jan '08
Does anyone remember my great grandmother Campbell living at 53 Lagan Street?

PEARSE DOBBIN - Dec '07
I LIVED IN THE MARKET WHEN I WAS A KID. NOW IM 103 I CANT REALLY MOVE SO I GOT MY SON TO WRITE THIS FOR ME.

Seán McGrady - Dec '07
To Alex Smylie...a very interesting posting. I worked in Inglis' Bakery in the late 60s and early 70s as a "jobber". My father was a despatch manger/foreman, his name was Danny McGrady. Wonder if you knew him. I worked mostly night shift in the belt room, on the two pounds or on the McWatts belt. Or was a "bogeyman" searching the yards for bogeys to supply the belts. I was only 15 at the time but remember clearly those walks down to the markets at six in the evening and the walk home along the empty streets at four or five in the morning. I remember signing in at the time office and getting my "whites" to wear. Hard to believe that you look back at these events affectionately. At the time it was hard, especially when the Troubles came along.
My father's family came from Keegan Street.

Rose Reid (nee Levey) - Dec '07
Hi Marie,
The name of this was just given to me by my brother. It was great to hear about you. I can remember lots of girls in our class, Patsy Rooney, Sadie Lundy, Mary McConville, Bernie Carson, Margaret Roberts, Renee Glazer, Margaret(I think) McGarry to name but a few.
I am married and now live in Spain, but I do go bac k to Belfast occasionally. The only person I'm in contact with is Patsy Flannagan, remember her?

Love to hear from anybody else

Anna Ferguson - Dec '07
My name is Anna Ferguson, I grew up in the Markets (Friendly Street). My dad still stays in the markets, as do all my family.
Bobby Ferguson

Aidan Daly - Dec '07
Hi, I went to school with a lot of people from the Markets at St. Malachys Oxford St and also at St Augustines, I also had mates from the Ormeau Rd and would love anyone who even thinks they remember me to contact me at aid1dalataaptdotnetdotau - All the best, Aidan Daly

RE: Paul Smyth, April 2007
If anyone knows Paul, please get him to contact me, I am sure we are related. Aidan Daly - aid1dalataaptdotnetdotau

Sean McCartan
My names sean mccartan i live in the markets i grew up with all the mcdermotts your uncle harrys(crazy waves) sons peter and patrick and all them 1s. i still live in the markets now and still socialise alot with them all my mother and father were sean and sally mccartan from the markets

Edward Denny - Apr '07
I have been told about a family named Pinkey from the Market area it seems as if they lived in Eliza street or Welsh street, does any one know of them or have any photos or such. They used to be great friends with my Father who was not from the area but from the Falls rd. Thank you for any information.

Benny Mullan - Apr '07
I see someone mentioned Cooke Street, my family lived there in the 1960's, any of you remember the old stables there, by the railway sidings ? I was reading in Rushlight Magazine site about the Market Blacksmith who shoed Roy Rodgers horse trigger, and about how Joe Graham has a photo of the Blacksmith and world champ, Bob Fitzsimmons, standing by the old Market anvil. ??

Deirdre Murray
I stumbled into this site whilst browsing rushlight and have really enjoyed reading the posts here although I am not from the market myself. I dont know if people here are aware of the rushlight magazine site www.rushlightmagazine.com maybe some people here would find some interesting history and folklore there

B Smyth - Apr '07
Does anybody know anything about the Maginnis' from Short Strand, Hugh, Bernard etc? One played was an excellent pianist and one left for London to go into the Theatre.

Deirdre Barr Kushner - Apr '07
I want to thank FRANCES FLANNIGAN/KEARNS for her kind words regarding my upcoming visit in August with my childhood friend from Cromac Street, Mary Lannigan. I can't wait to see her as it has been almost 40 years since I saw her last. Frances I see from your contribution to this site that you live in California. Whereabouts do you live? I live in Orange County, south of Los Angeles. Also I went to St. Monica's with a Renee Kearns who lived over by the Short Strand - any relation to you - she had red haired ringlets. Also a word to MICHAEL LAVERY - re the sweet shop facing Cromac Square - it was called Ferris' sweet shop and mostly catered to the people who worked at Telephone House close by. My mom had me run over from our house at #50 Cromac Street to get ice cream just before Coronation Street came on the T.V. because they had great ice cream. Our family also would run around the corner to Matt Dalton's shop, on the corner of Vernor Street for last minute items w!
e ran out of - it was a great experience going in there - you got more than want you came in for - if you count good chat and catching up with the latest.

Does anyone remember - now this is going back a bit --- Mrs. Lavery's sweet shop on Russell Street. Now that was a "wee" shop --- and lovely person was she -- she had white her in a bun - and knew all of us kids, each by name.

And a wee hello and thank you to PADDY BARR, my brother in Ottawa, Canada for without his knowledge of this site, I wouldn't be enjoying reading about The Market, nor meeting up with Mary Lannigan in August.

Also - does anyone know the whereabouts of Mary Kelligher, not from The Market but she went to school with all of us from the Market at St. Monica's. Mary lived on Cook Street - directly across from the Ulster Television Station - just a short walk up the Ormeau Road.

Marie Wilcox - Apr '07
I've been reading with great interest the names, places and life stories. can anyone help me with my family tree, Edward Thompson my GGGranda was Publican of The Joy Arms, 52 Joy Street (trying to find info or photo's) He married Mary Heaney in 1881 and their witness was Hans Savage (mentioned by Michael Lavery) after her death he married Margaret Skeffington Nee Barr in 1893 her witnesses were Samuel and Sarah Jane Barr (her father James Barr farmer & mother Alice Murray). Are these any relation to the Barr family previously mentioned if so do you have any info that would help my search. Thompson's lived at 50 Joy Street.

Jude Whyte, you mentioned going to Joy Arms for a coke and crisps do you have any other memories of the pub and the people i'd love to hear.
Thanks!

Brian McCartan - Apr '07
To martin smith,i no al ur family very well ,carol and brian,,<..aka bungie..>and your mother may,thats right u moved to the strand after leaving the market then to america,,,why is it all market men end up with some one from the short strand and when wee weere young all we did was fight with them,,,,as the old saying goes if you cant beat them join them,,,,,and thats true,,,all the best....

Brian McCartan - Apr '07
To Peter McDermott, my da used to run about with ur brother Harry, I remember my da telling me Harry's nick name was crazy wave. My das name was Dicky McCartan from Stanfield street now moved to Friendly street ...

Sean Maguire - Apr '07
I would just like to know if my 1966 girlfriend Kathleen Mullan of 112 Divis Street is safe and well, her mother used to sell shoes in the Markets.

Paddy Barr - Apr '07
My name is Paddy Barr of 50 Cromac Street - one of the large family of Joe and Sarah Barr who ran the barber shop located between Leo McShane's (butcher) and Eugene Maguire's (formerly Lynn's) public bar. I have just found this website today and have been blown away by familiar names and memories evoked by the stories I have read. I was knocked over especially to read Mary (Lannigan) Russell's comments - hers is a family with which we Barrs were well acquainted and I am pleased to report that my sister Deirdre (Mary's good childhood friend) is going strong out in Southern California. Be assured that I have passed on the word that her old chum Mary is trying to contact her. I am an emigrant also, having left Belfast for Ottawa, Canada in 1961 at 21 years of age. Living in Ottawa too are my older brother Kevin (who was co-barber with my dad up until he left home in the 70's) and my younger sister Margaret and their families. My great chums in the "Market" were Sean McEntee, Malachy Neeson and Joe McShane of Cromac Street and the late, great, one-of-a-kind Charlie O'Neill of Joy Street.
Answer to Jim Walsh's question - green grocer on Cromac Street near Eliza - may be Stewarts Cash Stores, one of a chain of stores. I may remember this because I used to meet up with my aforementioned chums (after the Fiesta dancehall closed for the night) in the doorway of Ernest Wilson (Dairy/Agricutural Equip.) next address to Stewarts. We would congregate there late on Saturday night - make that early Sunday morning - and brag about the great-looking girl we left home from the dance (no proof of this was asked or given). When we were late getting back to the rendezvous at "Ernie's" it was always because the girl lived way out in Glengormley or top of the Glen Rd and no buses back - or perhaps we were just faking it and killing time in Baldoe's chip shop. I'd love to get pictures of The Market in '40's, '50's or '60's, especially of Cromac Street in its golden age. Any out there? Or any leads?

Big Flynn - Apr '07
It is with saddnes to inform you of the death of 2 marketmen in the 1 week. The first was Market st man Henry(PoPeye) Rooney 8?? who died on holy Thursday and was buried from St Matthews in his adopted Short Strand on easter saturday. Later on That Day Seamus (Twin Flynn) Flynn of Eliza st. Alice Mc Cabe's son Dropped dead Suddenly at the GreenCastle Easter Commemeration parade in his adopted whitewell area he was age 43.

Jim Walsh - Apr '07
To Michael Lavery: Wasn't the sweet shop near Cromac Square Neeson's? I think they sold tobacco products as well.

Brendan Sullivan - Mar '07
Does anyone remember the Sullivans from 73 Market Street?

Patrick Sullivan Glenside, PA - Mar '07
What an amazing website. I was sitting here enjoying all of your stories, and told myself I cannt waite to show my Da (Brendan "Bucky" Sullivan) but I thought of something fun. MAybe someone can tell me something about him that I can really throw him a curve ball with before I show him the sight. He had a ton of brothers and sisters, Hugh, Peter, Patrick, Mary, Anne, etc. His mom and dad were Hugh and Margaret sullivan, and he married Margaret Wells(my mom) My mom has a sister Sheila (who is married to Joe Nevin (i think his nick name was Buck-o) Buck-o, buck-ey, who can keep it all strait? I love sitting at the bar and listening to my dad talk about his times in the market "Boot Boyle" comes to mind someone with the word Spider in their name. it goes on and on. Anyway, My moms mom was Alice Wells, and she was married to Frankie wells, who was still selling chickens in the market up until he passed a few years back (turned out he had an entire seperate family like one town o!
ver with 5 other kids... amazing). Any how my granny Alice was an amazing woman. she passed away about 2 years ago, and I have my first child whome I named alice after her... she looks just like her. IF YOU KNOW ANY OF THESE CHARICTERS DROP ME AN E-MAIL WITH SOME DIRT... patricksullivan3412@yahoo.com

Paul Smyth - Mar '07
My name is Paul Smyth. My mum was from the market area. She lived in Bond street. She was Margaret (peggy) Postlewaithe before she married Brian ( Buster ) Smyth from the Short Strand, over the old bridge. She was brought up by my old aunt Elizebeth (lizzie) Kerr who also lived in Bond Street. I have many fond memories of going back to the markets to vist many friends in the area like the fergusons, and play football with young Tommy. My mum sadly passed away on Jan 25 2007 at home, and we had a wonderful service for her in her local church in Downpatrick where we all moved as a family many years ago. It was nice to see many old friends of my mum and dad come from the Market and Short Strand make the trip to come down and see us during these hard time. Thanks everyone. If anybody remembers my parents or has any memories, storys, or possible photos I would be very keen to see, or hear them. I can be contacted on paulsmyth68@hotmail.com Thanks to everyone for this site, its very good. Bye

Barry McKee - Mar '07
What was the Market like in the old days? Well depending on which way the wind was blowing,mostly stinking.
Tuesdays sitting in St Colman's school hearing cows mooing all day.in the cattle lorries waiting to go into Robsons cow yard for sale.when you came out of school all you could see was the streets covered in about three inches of cows shit,where it used to piss out of the lorries while they were sitting on the streets.
Stanfield St was always covered in blood fron the hide carts going to and fro from the slaughterhouse in Stewart St, this was never cleaned up, people used to walked this into thier houses(we never knew any better)the smell of the hide stores would make you sick,mix that with the smell of the gasworks,the slaughterhouse,Inglis bakery,and you can see why many people used to say they could not understand how we lived in such a place,but we did and loved it,I still live in the market and would never move.
Mni Tks Barry.

Hilary McManus - Mar '07
For Bill Sauble and Peter Smith
Hi my dad Francis Mc |Manus was born in December 1920 in no 4 Stewart Street -  his parents names were William and Adeline - do you know where I can get any old photos of the street before the new ones were built.  I have been  in Belfast trying to trace roots.    We have no photos at all of my father's childhood and know very little of his family- we would be very grateful for any information at all.
Enjoyed reading your articles.

Frances Flannigan/Kearns - Mar '07
Hi Everyone,just would like to comment on the great news that Deirdre Barr has found an old friend Mary Lannigan through your site I think that is great. I hope you both have a great time when you get together in Belfast and especially when you go around the Market and meet some of your old friends as I am sure you will.I went to St Comgalls School and I don't know you but living round the Market makes us all friends.

Dolly Flannigan - Mar '07
Martin Smith I knew your Mom and Dad well. She looked after every little kid in our street. How old are you? How is your Mom doing. My Sisters and I did a story on Rushlight Magazine about Mickie.
do you have an e mail? My Email is Dolly737@aol.com would love to hear that remembers us growing up. I had a great time around the market. Our childhood days around the market, I would appreciate any photos of the area and people Peter Smith knew your Mom. We all used to go to the pub with Eileen Glennon (Paddys Wife ) RIP. WE HAD FUN
I'm hoping to hear from someone.

Frances - Mar '07
Hi Martin Smith,It was good to read your comments and that you remembered our house. My sister Annie was a great friend of your mothers and Margaret Mc allister.I met your mother a few times whem I was home we had a good old get together in Kathleen Maguires house.Your mom was out to visit you one time when I was home I think the word was that you lived in Boston is that right we are here in Calif.Martin your mother and I were engaged the same day.Frances Flannigan/Kearns

Michael Lavery - Mar '07
Hello everyone.I stumbled onto this site by accident & some of the pub & shop names brought back fond memories of my childhood.

I am Michael Lavery, son of Annie, Grandson of Micky & May Lavery of Roy Street, off Stanfield Street as was.
One of my mum,s many sisters was Maggie Leathem, sadly passed on, who lived in Seymour St (not really the market!) her family still live in the market, would you believe Freindly Street! where did that come from.

A number of pubs are not mentioned, Mckeenas, The Black Bull, McMeels, the Grand bar in Joy st, Hans Savages beside Geodrie Stows scrap yard,the one thing the area was never short of wes public houses, does this say something about our community?

I live just outside Belfast & still go back to my roots, albeit for funerals sadly, but I can never forget the smell form the hide & skin store, the illegal street bingo, the bike shop & chippie in Cromac Square & of course the people of the area.

I attended St.Colemans primary, at my time Mr.Smith was the headmaster, & Mcgraths & Donnelys shops is where I bought my sweets. The big school was Saint Augustines, ruled over by Big Sam & Hairy Dan, the most frightening man I ever met until I met him at an ex. prisoners function in the Lake Glen Hotel. I was amazed that his son was "inside" for polictal reasons & found Hairy Dan McCann to be both a caring father & a human being.

Anyone rememeber the name of the sweet shop facing Cromac Square? this has sparked many an argument & any help would be welcome, it was the size of a large shoebox.

Deirdre Barr Kushner - Mar '07
March 9, 2007 My name is Deirdre Barr Kushner. This is an update to the people who check into "Your Place & Mine" --- I have a success story to report concerning reaching my childhood friend, Mary Lannigan Russell (formerly of 58 Cromac St. - Frank Lannigan's electrical shop) . We were neighbors for many years on Cromac Street and haven't seen each other in almost 40 years. Because of your Place & Mine, Mary and I have reconnected and we have planned a reunion for this summer. So my message to all of you out there trying to reach a long lost friend, just keep plugging away, it can happen. I am excited, happy and pleased. It was great hearing Mary's voice on the phone after all these years. Good Luck to all of you. And if there is anybody else out there who knows us and would like to get in touch - my email address is Belfastcitygirl@yahoo.com. I am Joe Barr, the barber's daughter. The Barr family were at 50 Cromac Street for almost 100 years when our shop was closed down in the 70's for urban development.

Martin Smith - Mar '07
I remember the Flannigans living in the Market and i remember when yous all moved away. I vaguely remember you Madeline and your sister Dolly. Your oul da Micky had a handcart and he sold fruit off it and he did'nt go to America until later. The four corners where you lived had your house, Matt Daltons shop, Tommy Callans pub and Matt Daltons chippy. We lived in Stanfield street next door to Tommy Callans my Da was Billy Smith and my Ma May used to work in Daltons shop. The whole area has been knocked down and new houses have been built. All that is left of the old Market is the chapel and a couple of shops in Cromac st

Cliopdhna Sturgeon - Feb '07
Hi everyone!
I'm Cliodhna Sturgeon from the Markets in Joy Street!
I've now moved to a place called Darragh Cross in Co.Down!
I must admit I love the markets the most because all my mates and family still live there!

If you want to e-mail me; weeclio at hotmail dot co dot uk

Margaret Hamill - Feb '07
I enjoyed reading all the comments of the Markets. I never lived there but I worked in Muntons on the Dublin Road in the late 50s and a lot of the girls came from the Markets. They were a great bunch. I remember my supervisor, Mary Parker, especially. She faced up to the managers without fear, fighting to get her girls a better rate for the job. I wonder where she is now? I can only remember a few names, Moya Magee, Peggy Clenaghan. Thanks for the memories. I have lived in Kent for the past 40 years but still get homesick for Belfast.

Madeline Flannigan - Feb '07
Hello, my name is madeline flannigan, daughter of mickey(cousin) and mary(france). youngest sister to anne, paddy, frances and dolly flannigan. I was born at the market in our wee corner house at welsh and stanfield street. i spent my childhood days in the the market i am excited to share this sight with all of you. hopefully we can spread the word as we have so much to share. i was born in 1949 in that corner house and lived there until 1962 when i was brought out to america for a vist to my family who had immigrated to america. i have never gone back to ireland. some say that it is berrer not to as my memory of home will always be of what it was not how it is now. i have to close now will write again later.

Wendy Thompson - Feb '07
Does anyone remember the Lawlor's from the Markets?...My Grt Grt Aunt Minnie Lawlor ran a corner shop at 69 Market street right up until the 1950's? Would love to hear any info you have.

Christopher Peake - Feb '07
I enjoyed reading the messages on this board. I worked as a commercial traveller in the drapery business in the 1960s. I used to call with Joe Gamble who had a shop at 63-65, Cromac Street and another at 116, Cromac Street. I was friendly with the daughters of A. G. (Bertie) Ferris who had a newsagents and confectioners shop at 31, Cromac Street. They lived near Cherryvalley. I also was friendly with Peter Reid. His dad, Craig Reid, had a piano business at 18, Cromac Street. Another friend, Eleanor Hewitt from Dundonald, worked for W. J. Gamble and Sons, dairy and electrical engineers who had premises at 78-82, Cromac Street. I met a guy about two years ago. His name was Peter Agnew. He told me his mother's family were named Moore and that they came from the Markets area.

I wonder if someone knows the name of a guy who I think came from the Markets. He was a great singer with a voice like that of Josef Locke. Peter Reid knew him but unfortunately Peter died several years ago so I've to try another way to find the guy's name. He was kind enough to drive a minibus load of members of the Belfast Round Table to the May Festival in Dundalk one year. He sang several songs for us during the journey and I still remember him singing "Goodbye" from the "White Horse Inn."

People posting here or merely reading the messages are welcome to join Belfast Forum www.belfastforum.co.uk We have great crack on that site remembering the old days in Belfast, discussing topical items of interest, searching for people's ancestors and looking at photographs that people are kind enough to post on some of the threads on the site.

I hope you all have a Happy Christmas and a Peaceful and Prosperous New Year

Best Wishes.

Deirdre Barr Kushner - Feb '07
This is a message for Mary Lannigan Russell with the hopes that she will check in here to see that I saw her message of November 06 posted here. Mary I can be reached at Belfastcitygirl @yahoo.com. I will keep posting here until we finally connect because I am sure you will check back one of these times. I live in California and I will be going home to N. Ireland for the month of August and it would be great if we could see each other and anyone else who remembers us from Cromac Street (the barber shop) - Soapy Barrs as it was called.

Jude Whyte - Feb '07
Oh I forgot to mention it was never the MARKETS always the MARKET where did the plural come from?

Jude Whyte - Feb '07
My Mum Peggy was born and reared in 42 little may street in the market. This is the closest house to belfast City centre of them all. She was one of the Careys who lived here with family as follows Kitty,maura,joe pat who went to canada and eilish. Their father was Dan carey who died in 1977 and Mary Carey their mother who died in 1948 a very young woman.We had an Auntie margaret who lived with the family who died just 3 years ago, a terrible loss to us all. I have so many memories of the market in the 1960 period when on a Sunday we visited granda and sat in this wonderful house ( Four bedrooms by the way) listening to him tell tales of his life in the Docks. Mum was murdered in the conflict in 1984 and this was the last time I saw many of her friends at St Malachy's Church. Her and my late father ISADORE (now there is a name) both worked in Torney's and Fegan Bros' fruit importers and found a life to get her rearing 9 children. It was a wonderful place to be about, going to the Joy Arms for a coke and crisps with Dad and Uncle Dan. The Carson's lived next door and Connolly's shop was at the Corner. Betty Mullan who was another Aunt Lived in Joy street, now sadly gone. I even remember a gas light at the corner of Little May St and Rathbone street...ohh such memories.

Margaret Hamill - Feb '07
I enjoyed reading all the comments of the Markets. I never lived there but I worked in Muntons on the Dublin Road in the late 50s and a lot of the girls came from the Markets. They were a great bunch. I remember my supervisor, Mary Parker, especially. She faced up to the managers without fear, fighting to get her girls a better rate for the job. I wonder where she is now? I can only remember a few names, Moya Magee, Peggy Clenaghan. Thanks for the memories. I have lived in Kent for the past 40 years but still get homesick for Belfast.

PETER MCDERMOTT -Jan '07
hello my name is Peter McDermott. I live in Southampton England. My dad was born & bred in Grace Street (the markets ) Belfast. He would now be 68 he died 4 years ago. He moved to Southampton when he was about 18, all the family still live in the markets, his brothers Patsy, Harry, Sean, Gerard& sisters Marie,Collette, his dad was called Peter, nan was Marie Ellen, his best mate was Ned Mourne. Alot of belfast men moved to Southampton back then- Davy Rock & Tucker McAllister were 2 of them. I go back when I can - like to hear from anyone who knows them. Pete.

Deirdrre Barr Kushner - Jan '07
I am responding to Mary Russell's entry of November 06 - I have been writing here a few times now with the hope she sees this. Mary Lannigan of 58 Cromac Street, me of 50 Cromac St. - Joe Barr's youngest child. Mary and I went to St. Monica's School - as well as the Convent of Mercy, Sussex Place. Anyone else out there that remembers us and good old Cromac St.

Renee Glasser - Jan '07
I particularly want to contact Terry Jay Cooper and I sent him an e-mail but my e-mail was returned.
Is there any other way to contact him? We have been looking for him for a few years now and it was a delight to see his name yesterday.

I was born and brought up in the Markets and recognised some of the names on your list. It was a wonderful place to grow up with such people and I have always been grateful for all I learned there and at Sussex Place School. Best people in the world.

My name is Renee Glasser and if anybody out there remembers me I'd be glad to hear from them.

Deirdre Barr Kushner - Jan '07
Dear Mary Russell:

It's me Deirdre Barr - I am living in California, U.S.A. My brother Paddy living in Ottawa sent me this link to you and I am so happy - he said he could have been knocked over with a feather --- I fainted!!!. I kept saying over and over yesterday -- MARY LANNIGAN - MARY LANNIGAN --- I can't believe it -- I thought I would never be in contact with you again. I am so happy!!!!
Any way Mary, it is so good to finally say hello. Please write me - my email address - are you ready for this - Belfastcitygirl at yahoo dot com. I am anxiously awaiting.
I have thought of you from time to time over the years - I just thought you mom was the most beautiful person. She was so lovely and so nice to me. My mommy and daddy died in the 1970's and they were just in their 70's. I am glad your dad had such a nice long life. When did your mom pass away? I will talk more --- but something came to mind immediately --- remember us walking home from St. Monica's so we could spend the bus money on sweets - and then we had to walk real fast so it seemed to our mothers that we actually did take the bus. More news for you - I am in touch with Mary Kane of Catherine St. also the McGarrys of Lagan Street. And just before I picked up this information about you would you believe my husband gave a christmas present of going to Belfast on my own --- -I will be in Belfast August 1 through the 15th and then I will be in Omagh with Mary Kane for a couple of weeks after that --- we have to have a great reunion. Also last but not least --- how's Arthur - I hope he is doing well - and then you said 5 brothers --- your poor mommy wanted another girl for you --- I just know the top end of the family. Kevin and Paddy and Margaret are in Ottawa. Marie is in Vancouver, Sheila is in California like myself. Our Sean, Jerry and my lovely Kathleen have passed away. That's the worse about being in a big family and being the youngest. Anyway kiddo we have to see each other eye to eye before you don't recognize me --- I am not that young chick who used to run down the Ravenhill Road with you anymore. I telephoned Mary Kane this morning and she is anxious to see you too also Geraldine O'Rowe. Next I will let Nan Gray know - she was our president in the Legion of Mary - I am sure you knew her.

Peter Mc Dermott - Jan '07
Hello my name is peter mcdermott i live in southampton england,my dad was born & bred in grace street (the markets ) belfast ,he would now be 68 he died 4 years ago,he moved to southampton when he was about 18,all the family still live in the markets,his brothers patsy,harry,sean,gerard,& sisters marie,collette,his dad was called peter,nan was marie ellen,his best mate was ned mourne, alot of belfast men moved to southampton back then,davy rock & tucker mcallister were 2 of them,i go back when i can ,like to hear from anyone who knows them.

Dolly Flannigan -Jan '07
Hi Jim and all the market people, how you all doing? Will someone please send pictures of Market ,Stanfield Street.

G D - Jan '07
Does any one remember Kathleen Morgan from rileys place she always stood outside Beatties and McKinneys selling the Irish news as for me I'm her grandson and was brought up round the markets. I went to St Colemans and remember Mr Donnley replaced by Mr Cain on his retirement, what about McGraths shop and big Joe D'Laney and his milatry walk often seen going to a building site with his barrow.

I am always interested to hear about the markets as was for it as changed almost beyond recognition now.

Brian Mc Cartan - Jan '07
I know your uncle very well he used to work in allams cattle market and when we used to be off school we all used to go over and help load the lorries, but that was the eightys, so im still a young market man in my thirtys.

Deirdre Barr Kushner - Jan '07
Jim Osborne - I want you to know that I personally met and knew your Aunt Peg Osborne. She was a very dear friend of my mother's - Sarah Barr of 50 Cromac Street. Peg was a lovely lady and was very kind not only to my mommy but to me when I visited home the few times I visited my parents before their passing and after that I visited Peg at her home. She gave me a beautiful plague of our lady which I still have and think of Peg when I look at it. Her and my mother belonged to the 3rd Order of the Carmelites at St. Malachy's, so I believe. Regarding your Cromac Street inquiries - we were No. 50 the Barber Shop, Joe Barr's and next door on either side of us was Eugene McGuire's pub and McShane's butcher shop. We were close to Cromac Square (remember slipping and sliding on there when it got icy in the winter)and on the corner of which was the Post Office - Across from us on Cromac Street - directly was Lundy's fruit shop and Branney's sweet shop and Nichol's Sweet Shop. !
The other Lundy's was a bit further up - it faced Russell Street - as you know it sold all the hardware, toys, etc. Neeson's newsagents was next door to them - and the chemist shop. I hope this fills in some memories --- okay --- one more - further up the street ---- Stewart's grocery store and Joe's Ice Cream shop and Baldo's fish and chips.
All of this to you because of Peg --- she was wonderful --- so you must be wonderful too. She made a good cup of tea!!!

Deirdre Barr Kushner - Jan '07
To whom it may concern:
I just learnt of this site through my brother living in Canada - he was surfing through it and found to his surprise someone looking for me that I have heard from in almost 40 years. I responded at the bottom of the page where I read about the inquiry - N. Ireland- Belfast, Markets - I left my information - and I just want to know how long it usually takes you to update your information on your website so I know my long lost friend heard my response. I am excited and anxious and bless you for this lovely thing that has happened to me. I am originally from Belfast, Northern Ireland which I left in 1965. I now reside in S. California in the City of Irvine which coincidently was named and founded by a James Irvine from Belfast, N. Ireland who also left Belfast at the same age as was - age 19.

Deirdre Barr Kushner - Jan '07
I am responding to Mary Russell's entry of November 06 - I have been writing here a few times now with the hope she sees this. Mary Lannigan of 58 Cromac Street, me of 50 Cromac St. - Joe Barr's youngest child. Mary and I went to St. Monica's School - as well as the Convent of Mercy, Sussex Place. Anyone else out there that remembers us and good old Cromac St.

Deirdre Barr Kushner - Jan '07
Dear Mary Russell:
It's me Deirdre Barr - I am living in California, U.S.A. My brother Paddy living in Ottawa sent me this link to you and I am so happy - he said he could have been knocked over with a feather --- I fainted!!!. I kept saying over and over yesterday -- MARY LANNIGAN - MARY LANNIGAN --- I can't believe it -- I thought I would never be in contact with you again. I am so happy!!!!
Any way Mary, it is so good to finally say hello. Please write me - my email address - are you ready for this - Belfastcitygirl @ yahoo . com. I am anxiously awaiting.
I have thought of you from time to time over the years - I just thought you mom was the most beautiful person. She was so lovely and so nice to me. My mommy and daddy died in the 1970's and they were just in their 70's. I am glad your dad had such a nice long life. When did your mom pass away. I will talk more --- but something came to mind immediately --- remember us walking home from St. Monica's so we could spend the bus money on sweets - and then we had to walk real fast so it seemed to our mothers that we actually did take the bus. More news for you - I am in touch with Mary Kane of Catherine St. also the McGarrys of Lagan Street. And just before I picked up this information about you would you believe my husband gave a christmas present of going to Belfast on my own --- -I will be in Belfast August 1 through the 15th and then I will be in Omagh with Mary Kane for a couple of weeks after that --- we have to have a great reunion. Also last but not least --- ho!
w's Arthur - I hope he is doing well - and then you said 5 brothers --- your poor mommy wanted another girl for you --- I justknow the top end of the family. Kevin and Paddy and Margaret are in Ottawa. Marie is in Vancouver, Sheila is in California like myself. Our Sean, Jerry and my lovely Kathleen have passed away. That's the worse about being in a big family and being the youngest. Anyway kiddo we have to see each other eye to eye before you don't recognize me --- I am not that young chick who used to run down the Ravenhill Road with you anymore. I telephoned Mary Kane this morning and she is anxious to see you too also Geraldine O'Rowe. Next I will let Nan Gray know - she was our president in the Legion of Mary - I am sure you knew her

Frances Flannigan/Kearns - Jan '07
Hi Everyone it is great to read all your comments about the market what a great place to grow up in and to have such good memories about the people who lived there. Peter smith I was talking to Eileen Hanvey just now she lived in Keegan st and knew your mother well I also remember your mother,I didn't know she had gone to Australia of course I left in '57 to come to calif.for 2 years and 49years later I am still here. Jim I am still waiting on the pictures of the market you were going to send me.Hope you all have a Happy New Year and God Bless .

Madeline Flannigan - Jan '07
Hello, my name is Madeline Flannigan - daughter of mickey(cousin) and mary(france). Youngest sister to anne,paddy,frances and dolly flannigan. I was born at through market in our wee corner house at welsh and stanfield street. I spent my childhood days in the the market i am excited to share this sight with all of you. Hopefully we can spread the word as we have so much to share. I was born in 1949 in that corner house and lived there until 1962 when i was brought out to america for a visit to my family who had immigrated to america. I have never gone back to ireland some say that it is berrer not to as my memory of home will always beof what it was not how it is now. I have to close now will write again later.

Paddy Barr - Jan '07
My name is Paddy Barr of 50 Cromac Street - one of the large family of Joe and Sarah Barr who ran the barber shop located between Leo McShane's (butcher) and Eugene Maguire's (formerly Lynn's) public bar. I have just found this website today and have been blown away by familiar names and memories evoked by the stories I have read. I was knocked over especially to read Mary (Lannigan) Russell's comments - hers is a family with which we Barrs were well acquainted and I am pleased to report that my sister Deirdre (Mary's good childhood friend) is going strong out in Southern California. Be assured that I have passed on the word that her old chum Mary is trying to contact her. I am an emigrant also, having left Belfast for Ottawa, Canada in 1961 at 21 years of age. Living in Ottawa too are my older brother Kevin (who was co-barber with my dad up until he left home in the 70's) and my younger sister Margaret and their families. My great chums in the "Market" were Sean McEntee, Malachy Neeson and Joe McShane of Cromac Street and the late, great, one-of-a-kind Charlie O'Neill of Joy Street.

Answer to Jim Walsh's question - green grocer on Cromac Street near Eliza - may be Stewarts Cash Stores, one of a chain of stores. I may remember this because I used to meet up with my aforementioned chums (after the Fiesta dancehall closed for the night) in the doorway of Ernest Wilson (Dairy/Agricutural Equip.) next address to Stewarts. We would congregate there late on Saturday night - make that early Sunday morning - and brag about the great-looking girl we left home from the dance (no proof of this was asked or given). When we were late getting back to the rendezvous at "Ernie's" it was always because the girl lived way out in Glengormley or top of the Glen Rd and no buses back - or perhaps we were just faking it and killing time in Baldoe's chip shop. I'd love to get pictures of The Market in '40's, '50's or '60's, especially of Cromac Street in its golden age. Any out there? Or any leads?

Peter McDermott - Dec '07
Hello to all, I was born in Southampton, my father was born andnraised in the markets, and my family still live there. I believe my grandad might of sold fruit and veg. My dad's name was Jimmy McDermott (James) he lived in Grace Street. My Grandad was Peter, nan was Mary Ellen. I have four uncles there still - (Patsy, Harry, Sean, Gerald) and Marie and Colette. A lot of 'market men' moved to Southampton back then - Davy Rock and Tucker McAllister to name but two. Would like to hear any stories from anyone knowing of my family.

Alex Smylie - Dec '07
The Smylie Family lived in 8 Norton Street. just off McAuley Street. The five boys all went to St. Coleman's in Eliza Street and the three girls went to Gloster Street Girls school. My Father Harry and I worked in Inglis Bakery and I was the last production manager there just before it closed. I moved to Dublin in 1977. I made contact with Mary Russell's brother Authur Lannigan a few years ago. Authur was a G.P, now retired.

I remember her father in the electrical shop, he was always a perfect gentlman. My Aunt Mary Collins ived beside the Furgusons in McAuley Street and I remember the Furgusons. We moved from the Markets in 1958 to Haywood Avenue on the Ormeau Road. My oldest Brother John ( Buster Smylie) died four Years Ago. I also remember the Walsh Family from Eliza Street Jim Walsh brings back Memories of a song we sang as Kids " Ma, Ma, the kilties coming" I have great memories as a child growing up in the markets.

Wendy Thompson - Dec '07
Does anyone remember the Lawlor's from the Markets?...My Grt Grt Aunt Minnie Lawlor ran a corner shop at 69 Market street right up until the 1950's? Would love to hear any info you have.

Christopher Peake - Dec '07
Hello,
I enjoyed reading the messages on this board. I worked as a commercial traveler in the drapery business in the 1960s. I used to call with Joe Gamble who had a shop at 63-65, Cromac Street and another at 116, Cromac Street. I was friendly with the daughters of A. G. (Bertie) Ferris who had a newsagents and confectioners shop at 31, Cromac Street. They lived near Cherryvalley. I also was friendly with Peter Reid. His dad, Craig Reid, had a piano business at 18, Cromac Street. Another friend, Eleanor Hewitt from Dundonald, worked for W. J. Gamble and Sons, dairy and electrical engineers who had premises at 78-82, Cromac Street. I met a guy about two years ago. His name was Peter Agnew. He told me his mother's family were named Moore and that they came from the Markets area.

I wonder if someone knows the name of a guy who I think came from the Markets. He was a great singer with a voice like that of Josef Locke. Peter Reid knew him but unfortunately Peter died several years ago so I've to try another way to find the guy's name. He was kind enough to drive a minibus load of members of the Belfast Round Table to the May Festival in Dundalk one year. He sang several songs for us during the journey and I still remember him singing "Goodbye" from the "White Horse Inn."

People posting here or merely reading the messages are welcome to join Belfast Forum www.belfastforum.co.uk We have great crack on that site remembering the old days in Belfast, discussing topical items of interest, searching for people's ancestors and looking at photographs that people are kind enough to post on some of the threads on the site.

I hope you all have a Happy Christmas and a Peaceful and Prosperous New Year

Bill Sauble - Dec '07
My Mother lived at 2 Stewart street for many years until Bill SAuble, an American Soldier married her and brought her to the US. I have visited there many times. Sadly the old row houses are no longer there, torn down in the intrest of safety etc. I have some fond memories of the place. Peter if you read this, email me at cruzer40 @ hotmai l.com. I have a few photos as well and will gladly share them.

Michael Campbell - Dec '07
I recall a shop in Cromac Street which I think was a grocers owned by a Mr. Nicholl. Perhaps that's the one you were thinking of.

Michael Campbell - Nov '06
I am trying to research history relating to the Markets Area of Belfast with particular reference to The Royal George public house which was on East Bridge Street, opposite the fruit market.
My grandfather John Campbell (RIP) owned The Royal George during the 50's and early 60's and it remained in the family for a few years until bought by Seamus McLennan. It was eventually subject to re-development and is no more. My family lived above the bar for a couple of years, including in about 1952 (?) when my young brother was badly burned in a fire. Does anyone remember it?

I left Northern Ireland in 1969 and only return very rarely. Before it's too late (none of us is getting any younger) I would be very interested in any memories anyone might have about The Royal George. I have many childhood (and some adult) memories of the place and would love to hear from anyone who can expand my knowledge.

Marie Ferguson - Nov '06
This is a message for Jim Walsh, My cousins lived in rooms in 30 Eliza Street, Annmarie John & Tom Nolan, Their parents were Liz & Tommy.

Annmarie remembers you, she said to say hello and hopes you are doing well, she was 9 when you left Eliza Street, Did you leave a broken heart behind Jim ??? she won't tell ha ha ha

Small World Huh?

Frances - Nov '06
Hi Jim and Peter and all, My Granny and Winnie Murdoch were sisters the Murdoch'sdealt in horses so did Barney Ross he lived in Verner St. I chummed with Ann Ross. Peter, I knew your mother and your uncle Seamus, I went around with Eamon Lundy's sister Eileen they lived in Keegan st. My brother Paddy went to St Colmans School. My sister Madeline met Johnny Mc Keowns daughter a few weeks ago in Ventura,Calif. I will get in touch with her and tell her about this site it would be great to hear from her as so many of us connect with Johnny. Jim my e-mail is antrimgal3 @ aol.com.

Mary Russell - Nov '06
I lived at 58 Cromac Street. My dad ran F & J Lannigan - Electrical Contractors. We were next door to the Golden Jubilee pub. I went to the Convent Sussex Place from 1952 and remember Sister Vincent and Mrs Cunningham who taught the infants. Does anyone remember Barr's, Joe Barr was the barber. I went around with his daughter Deirdre who emigrated to the U.S. but we lost touch in our 20's. I lived in England for 30 years but now live in Co. Mayo. I would appreciate any contact with Deirdre or anyone else who remembers Mary Lannigan (now Russell). The place where our shop is is now a car park. I still keep in touch with Agnes Coyle - her mum ran a sweet shop at the top of Cromac Street, nearer to McKinney's Butchers. I have five brothers but we left Cromac Street when a CPO was put on the shop in the 1970's. Both my parents are dead although my dad Frank Lannigan did not die until 1999 aged 89 years.

Marie (nee ) Ferguson - Nov '06

My name is Marie Downey ( Ferguson until last year).My Daddy was John Ferguson from McAuley St the eldest boy to Mary Ann & Tommy (a Tailor).

My Dad died in Dec 1986, I miss all his stories, especially of standing harmonising at the top of McAuley Street with Mickey Mullen, Tommy Rogers, Frank Gargan and all of his friends.

Dad was Chairman of Nortonville Snooker club, premises was above a pub in Welsh st I think.

My dad was a van driver for the Pearl Dyeworks in Alfred St, and shops elsewhere, this was owned by The Keatings family ( my mums family, Dad married the boss's grand-daughter).

My " Faerie" Uncles & aunts are Geordie Married Mary Harbison, Sammy Married Sheila O'Connor, Bobby married Kathleen ? Thomsey Bachelor Boy, Jim Married Kathleen Hamill.
Maggie Married Neddy Browne Liz married Tommy Nolan, Bena Married Peter Glasgow Sana (Susan) Married Arthur McShane.

Anyone remember my family? I'd love to hear from you, I especially want info on My Great Grandfather Robert Ferguson lived at 10 McAuley St from 1913.

Marie Ferguson - Nov '06
This is a message for Jim Walsh, my cousins lived in rooms in 30 Eliza Street, Annmarie John & Tom Nolan, Their parents were Liz & Tommy.

Annmarie remembers you, she said to say hello and hopes you are doing well, she was 9 when you left Eliza Street, Did you leave a broken heart behind Jim? She won't tell ha ha ha.

Small World Huh?

Joan Melville - Nov '06
My father Alec Melville used to work at the market in the 50's and 60's. I wonder if the Billy Moore mentioned was the same man who gave my father his first job in the 30's (he used to run after the cart and pick up apples, as far as I know. We didn't live in the Market but I remember going there quite a lot and I remember especially second hand bookshops with really old books ,and a school outfitters there .I'm 51 so this would have been in the 60'sI suppose .I think Billy Moore had a daughter called Ruby Moore ,and I still have a photo of Mrs Moore with my mother .I remember being in their house as a child and they were really great to myself and my brother Duncan.He would remember them more as he's ten years older .I live in Spain now and really appreciate the site and have enjoyed reading the comments and articles Thanks!

Lynette Mc Eneaney nee Murphy - Nov '06
Hello from Drogheda. My nanna Annie Murphy lived in 16 Murphy Street. My granda Robbins was a cobbler who had his work in the fromt room of the house. My unclc Charlie lived there too. My dad's name is Bobby. I used to go to visit them every few weeks and I have some wonderful memories of the area. If anyone has any photos of the place I'd love to see them please. I will reply to all corrospondents.

Marie Toner Moore - Nov '06
Hello Marie Mullan I think the name Ward does ring a bell for me with so many sisters I am bound to know one of them! I don't know the Murdocks mentioned but I did know a Belle Murdock I wonder if she is related. I remember a Lundy's fruit selling family but I don't know about the donkey. I would love to hear of a reunion of the girls from that time having missed the one held some years ago (or at least I think one was held) I hope you enjoy your visit to your cousin and I am sure you will have some good stories to tell. By the way we couldn't afford penny baps from Inglis what with having to pay a penny on the tram for the trip to school every morning.

Marie Magee - Oct '06
I was interested to see that Jim Osbourne lived on the Shore Road at Greencastle. I was born in 846 Shore Road in 1961 and wonder if he remembers the Hylands as its such a small place. As a child my aunt Eileen and my mother Kathleen used to take us to the markets. It was a magical place. I'm living in Australia now but notice when I go home for a visit that little has changed in Belfast regarding how the place looks.

Jim Walsh - Oct '06
Hello Liam Murdock: Yes, I remember Murdock's. If I'm not mistaken, the story was that Roy Rogers' Horse Trigger was shawed at Murdocks during their visit to Belfast sometime in the 50's. Wasn't there also a family named Ford who dealt in livestock (horses or cattle) on the same side of Eliza Street? I have a photo taken in 1975 looking up Eliza Street toward Cromac Street. Murdock's is visible on the left hand side.

Frances: Give me your email address or Email me at jandb walsh @ comcast .net and I'll send you the pictures.

Does anyone remember the name of the green grocer on Cromac Street near Eliza Street? I've been trying to remember the names of some of the business owners. I remember Jimmy Lundy's of course and Leo the Butcher. Not far from Lundy's and Leo's was Neeson's. They sold tobacco etc. We used to stand outside and enjoy the tobacco smells coming out when people went in and out the door. Didn't take much to make us happy did it?

Liam Murdock - Oct '06
Jim in 15 eliza street, I have a miss Margaret Osborne in my 1963 street directory. We are from the Market, do you remember Murdock's yard at 4 Eliza Street. In 63 he is listed as a pork dealer but I always remember them as horse dealers.

Frances Flannigan - Oct '06
Hi Jim Walsh, Frances here, yes Davy is who I am talking about they were a great group of boys my sister was Annie Flannigan, and Billy and all the boys used to stand around and tease her and Margaret Mc Allister and Betty Byrne. I went around with Eileen Lundy and Anne Ross and Eileen Hanvey, I visit the two Eileens when I go 'home'. By the way Gerry Gibson is here in America too he has been on TV in Murder she Wrote and some other shows. Yes I would be interested in any pictures you have of the Market.

Jim Walsh - Oct '06
Frances Flannigan/Kearns : I have a couple of photos taken in 1974 around your corner showing Callan's Pub. You mention the boys who sang with Billy Gibson. You mention Dede Walsh. I'm sure you are talking about Davy Walsh who was my older brother. Him and Billy were best friends. I too can recall the group singing "Ghost Riders In The Sky" and many other songs of the day. I think they were partial to Frankie Lane songs. I made many trips round the corner from 34 Eliza Street to buy buttermilk from Mat Dalton's. The group would also gather on the corner of Eliza Street and New Bond Street outside Martha & Joe McGlade's shop and sing late into the night. People all up and down the street enjoyed that singing. They were probably as good as anything you could get on the wireless. Wonderful memories indeed. If you are interested in the pictures, contact me at jandbwalsh @ comcast . net.

Jim Osborne - Oct '06
My father (Charlie) was brought up in the Markets he lived at 15 Eliza Street.
As a kid my mother would drop my brother and I off to be looked after by my Aunt Mary while she went to work. We lived on the shore road (greencastle) so going to the markets was a big change. I remember the cows being driven down eliza street to the slaughter house this was a look forward to event for my brother and me. When we started school our summer holidays were spent in Eliza street most people leave the city for the seaside in summer we did the opposite and wouldn't change a thing. The markets for us was a magical place full of happy memories.

My Uncle Billy Moore lived at 21 Eliza Street, he had a stall at the market the horse he used to haul the cart to market was kept in the back yard along with turkeys he kept there at Christmas. My Aunt Peg stayed at 15 Eliza Street until they knocked the houses down moving then to friendly place.

Does anyone remember Lundy's shop on Cromac Street he sold everything from a four engine bomber to a donkey I spent some time there with my nose pressed to the window looking at all the toys.

My wife and I were back in Belfast two years ago and drove along cromac street it brought me back to the happy time I spent there.

Frances Flannigan/Kearns - Oct '06
Hi Everyone, I have so many wonderful memories growing up at the market. We lived on the corner of Welsh Street and Stanfield Street opposite Matt Daltons'(RIP) shop on the other corner was Tommy Callan's pub. We used to play in the street skipping, and swinging on the lamp post. All the boys would gather at our corner and sing, Billy Gibson Dede Walsh James Fitzpatrick Patsy Kane so many "I remember it well"as the song goes. I think anyone who lived at the market has great memories.

Marie Mullan - Sep '06
My father was born in 54 Eliza Street - Tommy Ward his sister Mary was a dressmaker her friends Lily Mc Kay the Doyle's where friends and the lady who lived at 56 was a scots lady Mrs Austin.

My Grandfather was Thomas Ward he worked for the Belfast and County down Railway Railway and was secretary of the local branch of the NUR, he was branch secretary for 13 years. My Grandmother was Roisina/ Roisin Fitsimmons from the Downpatrick area.

I attended Sussex Place convent school as did my sisters Eillen Roisin, Irene, Patricia (Deceased) Geraldine, Deirdre, Goretti, Nula and Latrae. The surname was Ward and we lived on Divis street. There where quite a few girls traveled to Sussex Place. I remember the Sisters mentioned by Marie Toner and people she named she would have been in a class above me. Names like the O'Neill girls Peggy died in Australia. Margaret Rooney, Mc Guinness, Stella Doyle, and her sister, Marie Murdoch, Marie McGlade whose Family had the shop at the corner of New Bond Street and Eliza Street. I also remember the Horse and Bread Cart Leaving Inglis Bakery and McWatters bakery where my Grandfather worked as a Baker until it closed and he was transferred to Inglis'. My dad's cousin had a grocery shop in Joy Street near the corner of Henreetta Street Corner of Joy Street.
The bakers in Henerietta St who sold penny baps just out of the oven at lunch time.
I'm going to visit my cousin Patricia Walsh sister of Paul and Gerrard soon she also went to sussex place and then to Ballynahinch convent.

Marie Mullan nee Ward E-mail mmarieceli @aol.com

Marie Toner Moore - Sep '06
Well come on girls. Where are the wee girls who went to Sussex Place school with my sister and I circa 1946/48. I remember Sister Patricia, Sister Theresa (she was young and we thought her lovely!) Sister Vincent, Sister Augustine (O'Neill) and Sister Mel to name but a few. Miss Mackle came whilst I was there and this was a big break with tradition as she and her young colleague brought all the latest notions from the training college to their classrooms. I have forgotten the other teacher's name but remember her face and lovely clothes. I was saddened recently to see that the convent building is up for sale. Margaret, my sister, and I went to piano lessens with Mother Frances in the convent building and as the saying goes the wee lay sisters kept it lovely. It wasn't only praying that was done on your knees. I remember Bernie Carson, the Forward twins, Patricia Maginess, Rose Levy, Jean Ross, Anne Moore, Corrine? Tierney and lots of other kids from that time. Maybe somebody remembers me, Marie Toner (now Moore) and my sister margaret. My beloved Margaret died some years ago but I'm more or less going strong yet as I hope are come of my classmates. I'd love to hear from you all and the stories you have to tell. I'm at mariebmoore 3 @ hotmail if anyone is out there.

Jim Walsh - Sep '06
Growing up on Eliza Street in the Market in the 50's, one of my favorite memories was the "Kilty" bands marching through the neighborhood. It was just like the Pied Piper. All the kids would fall in behind them and march with them. The Drum Major throwing up that huge baton and catching it. There was nothing like the sound of the pipes and drums. Eliza Street was still paved with cobble stones back then and you could see the sparks flying from under the clodded boots with white spats. You might be sitting in the house and you would hear some kid calling out "The Kiltys are coming, the Kiltys are coming." Doors would fly open as kids poured into the street. It didn't take much to get us excited. We would march with them up to Cromac Street and Cromac Square (seemed like a long way at the time) before we would drop off as we were leaving our area of safety. Long after they were gone, we would continue to march up and down the street looking forward to the next time they would come. I guess we called them Kilty's because of their Kilts. To this day, anytime I hear bagpipes, I'm back on Eliza Street marching behind the Kiltys.

Jim Walsh - Sep '06
I was born and raised in the "Market." I left at 12 years old in 1959 to come to the states. I lived at 34 Eliza St. Our house was next door to Johnny Mckeown's Blacksmith Shop (36 Eliza St.). He was our landlord. The next building then was St. Coleman's (38 Eliza St.) where I went to school. I went to St Malachy's as well. New Bond Street was directly in front of me when I came out my front door. I remember too, the cobble stone (pavers) streets and the horses going in and out of Johnny McKeown's with sparks flying from their new shoes. We could look out our bedroom windows and watch Johnny's two sons shoeing horses below. Mr. Donnely was the head master when I went to St. Coleman's. Four older brothers went to school there ahead of me and one younger brother as well. I remember when they tore up the pavers and resurfaced Eliza St. That first summer, we missed digging up the soft tar in between the pavers to play with. I have a good number of pictures of the area if anyone wants to contact me at jandbwalsh @ comcast.net. I would be happy to swap. It's always good to hear from someone from the Market.

Terry Jay Cooper - Aug '06
It's me again, my grandparents and all my uncles lived in the Markets, my paternal grandparents lived in a sort of large two, or three storey maisonette, above a shop on the corner of Cromac Square, Granda Cooper was a blacksmith, as was Granda Austin, he lived in Annette Street.
My first serious girl friend live in McCauley street, her dad owned a second-hand furniture shop on cromac street, just on the corner of McCauley street.

I met her as I started working in McCauley street on the right hand side, i went through the yard of the agricultural firm there, and was an apprentice coach painter, I remember well, the markets, and all the fun we had as kids round there.

Rob. Harbinson - Aug '06
I went to my "BURROW'S POINTER GUIDE MAP OF BELFAST" to find New Bond Street for Eamon. Heading down Cromac Street toward East Bridge Street turn right into McAuley Street. First Street on the left was New Bond Street. Linking McAuley with Eliza Street. Both McAuley and Eliza connect with Stewart Street which by coincidence was mentioned by Peter.

Eamon Fergus - Aug '06
I'd be grateful for ny information and impressions of the Markets (I never lived there so I don't know it as the Market) around the 1920's and 30's. My father Eddie Fergus grew up in New Bond Street. He was born in 1923 the youngest of 3 children, with brother Pat and sister Margaret. Pat and Eddie are long dead but Margaret is still in reasonable health. I've looked for maps of old Belfast but I've not been able to find New Bond Street. I have a very vague memory of visiting my grandmother's house (I never knew my father's father) as a very small child probably 50 years ago. I'd be interested in any information, stories or pictures that anyone might have.

Peter Smith - Aug '06
My name is Peter Smith and I was born and raised in the Market(we never called it the Markets) up until 1958 when I left at age 14 to emigrate to Australia.

I lived in 2 Stewart Street and my Mother was Bernie Dobbin. My Uncle Seamus Dobbin still lives in the Market today with his wife Kay and family.

I went to St Colemans School in Eliza Street and was christened, confirmed etc in St Malachy's church. The only teachers I can remember were Master Kelly, Master Smith and Miss Lyons.

I well remember the cobbled (pavers) streets, gaslights. The Pad, The Mill ( where the big gastanks were) , the slaughterhouse (slaterhouse) and so much more. Some of my friends at the time were, Billy Mc Mullen, Frankie mc Gary, Sean Mc Guinness, Eamon Lundy, Brian Mulligan and more.

I would appreciate any photos of the area and people of this time if any one has them. I would be happy to swap , I only have a few myself.

Syl. Maguire
My father had a public house at 48 Cromac Street. He had come to Belfast from Tyrone as a young man and worked there first as a barman. Mick Mooney, who later had his own pub at the corner of Eliza Street, was the bar manager. My father later took over the pub from the owner Mrs Lynn around 1930. Mr Lynn had bought the pub around 1896. I have a copy of the newspaper advert for that sale.
I started as a barman in the pub in 1949 and finally took it over in the 1960's. On one side of the pub was the post office on Cromac Square corner. On the other side was Joe Barr's barber shop where his son Kevin also worked. Next was Leo McShane's butchers shop where son Joe McShane also worked. Then the Golden Jubilee bar with Dessie Gillespie, then Frank Lanigan's electrical shop, then McCaughey's grocery shop then the chemists, then a piece of waste ground where you could access the bookies in Market Street, then there was Neeson's newsagency,sweets and tobacco shop and then was Jim Lundys. On the other side of the road was a butshers supplier at the corner of Hamilton Street, then Branneys confectionery, then Lundys fruit shop, then Taggarts, engineers, then Nichols Confectionery. Geordie and Raymond Stone had a bicycle shop in the Square. Round the corner was the Royal George taken over by Seamus McLennon. After redevelopment Seamus had a pub in Dundrum. I remember!
Petey McDermott and his sonn Harry who both worked for Cementation as did two of the Brights and Ferguson and Paddy Lavery also known as Harvey. Nobody has mentioned Silver McKee in any of the
comments. This is a great site. It sure brings back memories.

kate stow/mc reynolds - Feb '08
hiya peter you mentioned the dobbin family my auntie alice stow is married to stephen dobbin who is kay's son my daddy's family & my mammy's mother is also from the market. my daddy's name is tony stow (rip) & my wee granny was lily barr till her own name moore was her married name my granda was from sailor town originally he was a sign writer & painted all the shop signs my granny barr's sister is still living in the market jean mc cormack. jean's the only member of my granny's family left.

Margaret Murray - Feb '08
Hi, My name is Margaret Murray nee Conlon. I grew up at 4 Stanfield street. One of nine children. My parents were Mary and John. My sister Jean told me about this site. This has been a joy perusing old names and memories. I live in Connecticut in the US since 1968. Would be happy to hear from old neighbours. I went to Saint Monicas with the afore mentioned Deirdre Barr, we lost contact about ten years ago. Deirdre if you see this contact me.

charlene murray - Feb 08
How fantastic is this! It would be nice if it was a more interactive site though :)My name is Charlene Murray. My fantastic mother is Margaret Murray/maiden name Margaret Conlon. Mum's sister's are Emily, Kathleen (or Kate), Jean, and Mary....My uncles... Charlie, Danny, John and Frank. 'm pretty sure Deirdre Barr-Kushner visited our home when I was small...Hi Deirdre!........I'm sending a link to my Mum this evening. If anyone knows any history, would love to read about my family or photos etc.