GRAVEYARDS in Ireland’s county ANTRIM

Graveyards:

Ballymoney Old Church Graveyard (Ballymoney) A historic graveyard maintained by Ballymoney Borough Council, known for its well-preserved headstones and connections to local family histories. It’s a peaceful site with a rich record of North Antrim’s past. The graveyard contains the graves of local families like the Love and Wallace families, some of whom emigrated to the New England Colonies in the 18th century. For example, John Love (1645–1729) and Robert Love (d. 1722) are buried here, significant for genealogical research.
Carnmoney Cemetery (Newtownabbey) One of the oldest cemeteries in the Belfast area, Carnmoney is notable for its “Hidden Graveyard” and memorials, including armorial sculptured stones from the early 20th century. Its serene setting and historical inscriptions make it a compelling visit. The graveyard is associated with the “father of Belfast medicine,” likely referring to a prominent local physician, possibly Dr. William Drennan (1754–1820), a poet and United Irishmen founder, though his burial is unconfirmed here.
Milltown Cemetery (Belfast) A significant Catholic cemetery in West Belfast, known for its association with Irish republican history and its role in documenting Belfast’s social history. Bobby Sands (1954–1981), an IRA volunteer and hunger striker, is buried here in the Republican Plot. His grave is a focal point for those interested in the Troubles and Irish republicanism.
Belfast City Cemetery (Belfast) One of Belfast’s largest cemeteries, it includes a historic Jewish section and is undergoing restoration. It’s a key site for understanding Belfast’s diverse communities and Victorian-era burial practices. The Jewish section (1871–1964) includes a memorial stone for those buried in the “poor ground,” reflecting the city’s Jewish heritage.
Lisnabreeny American Military Cemetery (Belfast) A unique site dedicated to American servicemen who died during World War II, particularly those from the 1943–1948 period, including victims of the Chimney Rock B26 crash. The cemetery commemorates American military personnel, making it significant for those interested in WWII history.
Billy Parish Church Old Burying Ground (Bushmills) Located near the famous Bushmills Distillery, this graveyard dates back to the 17th century and offers a glimpse into the area’s Presbyterian and Anglican heritage. The site is notable for its association with local folklore and the history of Bushmills.
Kilraughts Old Church Graveyard (Ballymoney) A historic Presbyterian graveyard with connections to early 18th-century settlers who emigrated to America. The site is well-documented for genealogical research. The Love family, including Adam Love (b. 1702) and his father John Love, are buried here, notable for their emigration to the New England Colonies.
Layde Graveyard (Cushendall) Situated in the scenic Glens of Antrim, this graveyard is part of an ancient church site with views of the Antrim coast, making it a picturesque and historically rich location. The graveyard is associated with local Gaelic families and early Christian history in the Glens.
Ballyclug Old Graveyard (Ballymena) A small, historic graveyard linked to the early history of Ballymena, with inscriptions dating back centuries. It’s a quiet site for those interested in local history.
Famous Personalities: The graveyard is part of Ballymena’s gravestone records, valuable for family history research.
Newtowncrommelin Church of Ireland Burying Ground (Ballymena) A well-preserved graveyard with detailed inscriptions, offering insights into the Church of Ireland community in rural Antrim. The site is significant for its genealogical records and rural charm.
Ballynure Old Graveyard (Ballynure) This graveyard is part of the historic fabric of Ballynure, with inscriptions documenting old families of the district. Its proximity to Carrickfergus adds to its historical appeal. The graveyard contains memorials to local families, some of whom were influential in the region’s early history.
St. Patrick’s Parish Church Graveyard (Ballymoney) A historic Church of Ireland site with connections to the broader history of Ballymoney, offering a peaceful setting and well-maintained grounds. The graveyard is linked to local families like the Wallaces, who have historical significance in North Antrim.

Famous graves in Antrim:

George Best (1946–2005) – Roselawn Cemetery, Belfast, Plot S 295

Who: Legendary footballer, considered one of the greatest players of all time, known for his career with Manchester United and Northern Ireland.
Why Notable: His global fame as a sports icon and Belfast native makes his burial site a point of interest. .

Edward Carson (1854–1935) – St. Anne’s Cathedral, Belfast

Who: Dublin-born barrister, politician, and leader of the Ulster Unionist movement. He opposed Home Rule and was instrumental in the formation of the Ulster Volunteer Force (UVF).
Why Notable: The only person buried within St. Anne’s Cathedral, where he received a state funeral. Soil from each of the north’s six counties was scattered on his coffin. .

William Drennan (1754–1820) – Clifton Street Cemetery, Belfast

Who: Physician, poet, and founder of the United Irishmen, a revolutionary group advocating for Irish independence. He wrote the poem “When Erin First Rose,” which coined the term “Emerald Isle.”
Why Notable: His contributions to Irish nationalism and literature make him a significant historical figure. Referenced in connection to Belfast’s early cemeteries, though exact burial confirmation relies on local historical records.

Henry Joy McCracken (1767–1798) – Originally Clifton Street Cemetery, Belfast (disputed)

Who: United Irishmen leader executed for his role in the 1798 Rebellion. He led the Battle of Antrim.
Why Notable: A martyr of the United Irishmen movement, though his remains’ exact location is debated due to reburials or unmarked graves. Historical accounts link him to Belfast cemeteries, with Clifton Street as the likely site.

Mary Ann McCracken (1770–1866) – Clifton Street Cemetery, Belfast

Who: Social reformer, abolitionist, and sister of Henry Joy McCracken, a United Irishmen leader executed in 1798. She was a pioneer in women’s education and anti-slavery activism.
Why Notable: Her progressive work and connection to the 1798 Rebellion mark her as a key figure in Belfast’s history. Belfast historical records, often cited in connection to Clifton Street.

Bobby Sands (1954–1981) – Milltown Cemetery, Belfast

Who: Irish republican, IRA volunteer, and hunger striker who died in 1981 during the Maze Prison hunger strike. Elected MP for Fermanagh and South Tyrone while imprisoned, he became an iconic figure in Irish republicanism.
Why Notable: His death sparked international attention and remains a symbol of the Troubles. , general knowledge of Irish history.

Famine Victims (1840s) – Friars Bush Graveyard, Belfast

Who: Over 2,000 victims of the Great Famine buried in a mass grave known as “Plaguey Hill.”
Why Notable: The mass grave is a poignant reminder of Ireland’s tragic famine history, making the site significant for collective memory rather than individual fame. .

Jewish Community Members (1873–1964) – Belfast City Cemetery, Belfast

Who: Members of Belfast’s Jewish community, including those buried in the Jewish section acquired in 1871.
Why Notable: The community’s contributions to Belfast’s cultural and economic life (e.g., linen trade) are significant. A memorial stone honours those in the “poor ground.”