New ‘30 Ballycastle Treasures’ book helps bring local history to life

Entitled ‘30 Ballycastle Treasures’, it was written by members of the volunteer group Friends of Ballycastle Museum.

The new release highlights 30 different objects from the Ballycastle collection, many of which are often in storage rather than on display, and provides fascinating stories that link to the history of the town.

The treasures displayed in the book range from stone age artefacts and Victorian antiquarians, to pieces from the Irish Home Industries Workshop, and the first Feis na nGleann.

Attending the book launch at the Rathlin Sound Festival, the then Mayor of the Causeway Coast and Glens Steven Callaghan said: “I cannot over state what a wonderful resource has been produced by the Friends of Ballycastle Museum. As a group of volunteers, they provide invaluable service helping to promote and open Ballycastle Museum.”

Praising the volunteer group, Mr Callaghan added that the group “demonstrate the breadth of their knowledge and showcase the benefits of working with local groups to explore social history”.

He continued: “It is a true example of local groups bringing local history to life.”

On behalf of the Friends of Ballycastle Museum, editor of 30 Ballycastle Treasures Aidan McMichael said: "The Friends of Ballycastle Museum are delighted with the launch of this beautiful new book which showcases and celebrates treasures representing our local district.”

Aidan added that the book also includes what he described as Ballycastle Museum’s “greatest treasure”, the Ballycastle Museum building itself. The editor called this “a great historical asset”.

He explained: “The book is a wonderful resource packed with photographs and stories illustrating the rich local history of times gone by. Thanks to all the museum volunteers who helped document and illustrate each of the treasures. The Friends of Ballycastle Museum are, as always, indebted to Causeway Coast and Glens Museum Services for their support, encouragement and facilitation of this project.”

The book is available to purchase directly from the Friends of Ballycastle Museum. All queries, including those to buy the book, should be sent to [email protected]

The new release will also be available for purchase at various events throughout the year.

All proceeds raised will go to support the work of the Friends of Ballycastle Museum. Information on Friends of Ballycastle Museum can be found from their Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/BallycastleMuseum/?locale=en_GB