Smyths Of The Bann

INTRODUCTION

Having always lived at Hockley Terrace, Scarva Road, a row of 10 houses that was built for the factory employees of Brookfield, I have always been curious about the history of the Smyth family and their various businesses.

As a youngster I played in the fields and around the old empty milldam at Brookfield and took the occasional un-permitted stroll through the gardens of Brookfield House which helped fuel my curiosity. This interest was heightened after reading a copy of Captain Richard Linn's 'A History of Banbridge' (1935) and the passage concerning Lieutenant-Colonel Gerald Brice Ferguson Smyth, DSO and Bar.

In the year 2000 an opportunity arose to compile a history of the Smyth family when I was successful in obtaining an ABC Millennium Award grant.

I have thoroughly enjoyed all that I have undertaken during the compilation of this book. My trip to the Public Record Office at Kew in London was a valuable experience and contacting and visiting the various members of the Smyth family, whom I found to be very 'down to earth' people, equipped me with much valuable knowledge. Last, but by no means least, I am indebted to the workers and their families, interviews with whom have been a very enjoyable and worthwhile experience.

It should be noted that as I had only a short time to complete and publish my research, this book can only provide a small insight into the history, lives and experiences of the Smyth family and that of those who worked for and with them. To compile a complete history would take years to research.

I hope everyone enjoys reading this book.

Paul McCandless August 2002

This publication gives an interesting insight into the activities of the Smyth family in Banbridge during the last two centuries.

It records their contribution to the life of the town and their involvement in the rise of the linen industry in the district.

I have enjoyed meeting with Paul during his research. He has covered a wide area of life in bygone days and the book is full of interesting facts and figures lightened with anecdotes of past events. I am sure it will be of interest to many people.

I wish Paul every success with the publication.