For most of the 19th and 20th centuries, many small towns and villages in South Armagh and South Tang hosted fairs and fair days. As an important part of the rural economy, some towns have obtained concessions that allow them to maintain their mark and stimulate economic growth in the region. For example, Kilkeel obtained such a charter in 1767, Rostrevor in 1769 and Warrenpoint in 1776. 

One of Tangnan's most important market towns is Rathfriland. In the County Down Guide and Catalog published by Bassett in 1886, Ras Vriland was described as "one of the best inland market towns in Ulster."

This is reflected in the diary of James Harshaw, a farmer in the Donaghmore area north of Newry, dating from the 1840s to the 1860s. These are flooded with many families' shopping trips to Rathfriland, especially curtain shops. As a farmer and flax grower, Harshaw is also a frequent visitor to the Rathfriland market. The market was originally held on Wednesday, but by 1886, Bassett told us that there would also be a market on Tuesday and Saturday when agricultural products were sold. Livestock and poultry are sold on Wednesday. A market is held on the first Wednesday of every month. James Harshaw also mentioned the annual "currant market" held in late July or early August.

The Fair in Hilltown is one of the best fairs in Northern Ireland. Flocks of sheep were brought to Hilltown Bazaar from all places in Donegal, Antrim, Delhi and Tyrone, as well as Don and Ama. The fair usually starts around ten in the morning and lasts until four in the afternoon. There is a bazaar for cattle, sheep, pigs and horses, and donkeys and goats are sold in the same bazaar. The market is also a social occasion. When the business is completed, people will stay until late at night to meet new and old acquaintances; roll dice, play music, and sing folk songs.

By 1800, Kilkiel had an exquisite bazaar, and the town’s bazaar became an important export for Mornes farmers’ production. Every Wednesday there is a potato, oatmeal and pig market in the town, as well as a flax market during peak seasons. The trade fair of cattle, sheep, horses and agricultural products is held on the last Wednesday of each month.

The main markets for farmers in South Armagh in the 19th century were held in Crossmaglen and Newtownhamilton. A market is held every Friday in Crossmaglen to buy butter, eggs, poultry, and timely grain and grass seeds. On the first Friday of every month, there is also a market for cattle, sheep, pigs and horses. In Newtown Hamilton, a free market for butter, eggs and poultry is held every Saturday, and a market for cattle, sheep, pigs and farm horses is held on the last Saturday. The job fair is held on the last Saturday of May and November. 

There is no longer a network of markets and bazaars in South Ama and South Tang. However, important livestock sales are still taking place in Hilltown and Rathfriland, and the Booty Fair, which has been held in Hilltown since the 1980s, has resumed the tradition of trade fairs. 

The museum currently offers free visits to the exhibition hall every Wednesday and Thursday at 11 am. These must be booked in advance by calling our education officer 0330 137 4422. 

The Newry and Mourne Museum is open from Tuesday to Saturday from 10 am to 4 pm. Please call 0330 137 4422 or send an email to museum@nmandd.org for more information.

Ken Abraham and Dympna Tumilty

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