As we celebrate 300 years since the town of Ballina was formally established back in 1723, let’s take a minute to get to know its founder, before he appears in person in Ballina on National Heritage Day, during Ballina Salmon Festival 2023!
Field Marshal James O’Hara, the 2nd Baron Tyrawley and 1st Baron Kilmaine, PC (1682 – 14 July 1774), was an Irish officer in the British Army, credited with officially designating Ballina as a town as a commercial centre (though of course we know Ballina is much older!. He was born the son of Charles O’Hara, 1st Baron Tyrawley, whom he succeeded, and Frances O’Hara (née Rouse), During his military career, he was colonel of eight different regiments and travelled worldwide during his distinguished career as a military commander between 1703 and 1773
Lord Tyrawley died at Twickenham on 14 July 1774 and is buried in the chapel of the Royal Hospital Chelsea.
During Ballina Salmon Festival’s National Heritage Day, you’ll get a chance to meet the Baron as he wanders through the streets of the town he once founded, in full costume, with thanks to Riverside Theatre Group.
Funding from Creative Ireland Mayo for this event is gratefully acknowledged. You can access other Creative Ireland resources here: [ Ссылка ]
