by Q Radio News
A poignant service has taken place in Ballymoney Cemetery to remember those laid to rest in the town’s ‘Paupers’ Graves’.
A new memorial headstone now marks the plot, over 100 years since it was first used to bury those who died in tragic and unfortunate circumstances.
The cross community event was organised by James McMullan & Son Funeral Directors, who put the headstone in place, in conjunction with Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council.
(Photo - McAuley Multimedia)
James McMullan has been speaking to Q Radio and says the plots contain an important piece of history for Ballymoney:
The service included prayers, readings and an Act of Remembrance from representatives of churches in the town while local historian Keith Beattie reflected on the history of the site.
The Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council, Councillor Brenda Chivers who opened the service said: “It was important for people to come together to show that these lives mattered and the new memorial will serve as a permanent reminder of this.
"I would like to thank the Funeral Directors for their interest and input which will now ensure that these graves are marked in a suitably dignified way.”
Council records show more than 200 people who could not meet funeral costs were buried in the plot between 1891 to 1919.
Andrew McMullan of James McMullan & Son commented: “These plots have always intrigued me and I am content that these individuals are now being recognized and remembered as part of our town’s history.”
(Photo - McAuley Multimedia)
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