Magherafelt
| Magherafelt | |
| County Londonderry | |
|---|---|
 Magherafelt Presbyterian Church | |
| Location | |
| Location: | 54°45’0"N, 6°36’36"W |
| Data | |
| Population: | 8,372 (2001) |
| Post town: | Magherafelt |
| Postcode: | BT45 |
| Dialling code: | 028 |
| Local Government | |
| Council: | Mid-Ulster |
| Parliamentary constituency: |
Mid Ulster |
Magherafelt is a small town in County Londonderry, which had a population of 8,372 at the 2001 census. It is the biggest town in the south of County Londonderry.
The town's name is derived from the Gaelic language, from Machaire Fíolta meaning "Plain of Fíolta.[1].
History
Magherafelt is a Plantation town built around a central diamond, which forms the heart of the town. However, the origins of the town predate the Plantation and go back to 1425.
During The Troubles in the late 20th century, 11 people were killed in or near Magherafelt in connection with the conflict.
Transport links
Magherafelt railway station opened on 10 November 1856, shut for passenger traffic on 28 August 1950 and shut altogether on 1 October 1959.[2]
Sport
- Gaelic games: O'Donovan Rossa Magherafelt GAC
- Football:
- Magherafelt Sky Blues FC
- Magherafelt Reds
- Rugby: Rainey Old Boys Rugby Club
- Swimming: Mid Ulster Swimming Club
Outside links
References
- ↑ Placenames Database of Ireland
- ↑ "Magherafelt station". Railscot - Irish Railways. http://www.railscot.co.uk/Ireland/Irish_railways.pdf. Retrieved 2007-11-03.