Discovering Newtownards: Unveiling the History and Charm of Ulster Scott Settlers

Welcome to this 360-degree virtual reality video tour around North Down and the Ards Peninsula in County Down.

The History and Heritage of Ulster Scott Settlers

In this tour, we will explore the legacy of Ulster Scott settlers in this area over the past four centuries. This tour will focus on the history, heritage, and lifestyle of these settlers.

We are currently in Newtownards, exploring the fascinating medieval building known as the Old Priory. Originally established in the 1200s by the Dominicans, this building has a rich history. It is located not too far from the waters of Strangford Lough, which allowed monks to travel here by boat in the early days.

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By the late 1500s, early 1600s, this area became part of the Gaelic territories of Clandeboye, owned by Con O'Neil. However, in the early 1600s, the king divided his lands, and two-thirds of them went to two Scottish lairds: Sir James Hamilton and Sir Montgomery.

Sir Hugh Montgomery acquired this area, which was then called Newtown or Newton. He made it the center of his new market town, constructing a protective bone wall around the area. He also gave the Old Priory building for Protestant worship, adding a new roof and the north transept.

The bell tower, guarded by an iron gate, would ring to call the Ulster Scott settlers to worship. The original bell can now be seen in Saint Mark's Parish Church. The building also features medieval stained glass fragments that date back to around 1450.

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While the burial place of Hugh Lord Montgomery and his wife is unknown, other Scottish people, such as the Marquises of Londonderry, are buried here. Their home, Mount Stewart, managed by the National Trust, is a popular visitor destination.

Life in Newtownards 400 Years Ago

Let's imagine Newtownards 400 years ago when the Ulster Scott settlers established a thriving community. With their Scottish accents, surnames, religion, farming practices, folklore, customs, and superstitions, the Scottish settlers brought life to this area.

Sir Hugh Montgomery obtained a charter from the king, allowing him to establish markets in Newtownards. To this day, the town holds a market every Saturday.

As we explore the town, we come across the Market Cross, symbolizing trade, progress, and civilization. Business within sight of the Market Cross was considered binding, and almost 100 houses clustered around it by 1636.

The Market Cross, with its eight sides and carved panels depicting coats of arms, stands proudly in the heart of the town. The panels feature the Shaw, Montgomery, Royal, and Irish coats of arms. Gargoyles originally served as drainage for the roof, and legend has it that wine flowed from their mouths in celebration of King Charles II's restoration.

The Market Cross also served various purposes over the years. It was the office of the Londonderry's land agent in the 18th and 19th centuries and later served as a prison for the drunk and disorderly in the 1940s. Today, it stands amidst a busy road junction.

Conclusion

Newtownards offers a glimpse into the rich history and heritage of the Ulster Scott settlers. From the Old Priory to the Market Cross, this town is filled with stories of Scottish influence and the thriving community that was established centuries ago.

We hope you enjoyed this virtual tour and consider visiting Newtownards to experience its unique history and charm firsthand.

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