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Another artefact that remained hidden until the night of The Big Wind of January 6th 1839 is the Clog-Bán (White bell). For many years local folklore stated that the ringing of a bell could be heard during high winds at night. St Bronagh is the patron saint of seafarers and the bell was meant to warn of treacherous conditions. For many years people heard the bell but its source could never be found, it wasn’t until the night of The Big Wind that it was uncovered either in a trunk of a tree that fell or in the ivy covered walls of the church. This 6th century bell is now displayed in the local Catholic Church in Rostrevor. The site at Kilbroney also contains a well that is meant to heal eye and throat ailments. It is uncertain when Kilbroney fell into ruin however it is likely it was destroyed during the reformation.

I wholly recommend a visit to Kilbroney graveyard as its a truly spectacular site, rich in history and stunningly picturesque.

GPS: 54.11138, -6.18421

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