Ballybay

Ballybay is a town in County Monaghan in Ireland, centered on the crossroads of the R183 and R162 regional roads. The name in English means "The Mouth of the Ford of the Birches".Town layoutThe town is the meeting point for roads going to Monaghan, Castleblayney, Carrickmacross and Clones. The town grew up from the convergence of the roads. The town is built beside a large lake, Lough Major (In Irish "Lough Mór") and the smaller Lough Minor. The Dromore River also runs through the south of the town, past Pearse Brother's Football Grounds, and past the Riverdale Hotel.HistoryThe town grew up in the 18th century, gaining its prosperity from the linen industry founded by the Jackson family. The Town council (Ballybay Development Committee) was established around 1870. Later, on 1 January 1921, an Irish Republican Army ambush led by Stephen Wise killed one Royal Irish Constabulary man, one civilian and three Auxiliaries were wounded during the Irish War of IndependencePeople of note Kevin 'Big Bad' Barry McSkeane born 15 April 1974. Ulster Straw-Weight Boxing Champion 1985. John Cummins, born March 12, 1948. Successful racing car driver in America and after retiring is now Host of a motor racing radio show.