A history class which meets weekly in Greenisland Library (17 Glassillan Grove, tel. 9086 5419) took on a more active role when they participated in a visit to Crumlin Road Gaol, organised by Carrickfergus and District Historical Society, on Wednesday 22 July.  The class, which is currently studying the Civil Rights period of Northern Ireland’s history (1968-1974) with tutor Karen McCartney of the Ulster Peoples College, found the tour round this famous landmark very relevant to their studies.

They heard how Belfast Gaol, as it was originally called, was designed by Sir Charles Lanyon.  Some of Lanyon’s other famous building designs are Queen’s University, the Palm House in Botanic Gardens and Gill’s Almshouses in Carrick.  The first prisoners were marched in chains to the newly opened gaol from the County Gaol in Carrick in 1846.

There was information about some of the more sensational events in the gaol’s history, such as escape attempts and the 17 executions which occurred within its walls.  The group also went down into the tunnel which links the prison to the court house across the road.

As the gaol closed in 1996, the tour contained much information relevant to the period being studied by the class.  It was an enjoyable and informative visit which members of the group found very thought-provoking especially considering many of the events have occurred within living memory.

Tours of Crumlin Road gaol operate from Thursday to Sunday until 27 September.  Pre-book by telephoning Belfast Welcome Centre on 028 9024 6609.  For information on the wide range of heritage-based activities offered by Libraries NI, visit www.librariesni.org.uk or ask staff.  Greenisland Library opening hours are Mondays and Fridays 10.00am – 1.00pm, 2.00 – 5.30pm; Tuesdays 10.00am – 1.00pm, 2.00pm – 8.00pm; Thursdays 2.00pm – 5.30pm; Saturdays 10.00am – 1.00pm; 2.00pm – 5.00pm.