History of Carlingford

The Prosperous Years

Carlingford's strategic position on the east coast of Ireland (along with Carrickfergus and Dundalk) made it a vital trading port. This trade led to its relative prosperity during the 14th, 15th and early 16th Centuries. Carlingford's early prosperity faltered when, in 1388, the town was burnt to the ground, by a Scotsforce under the command of Sir William Douglas of Nithsdale. This was a punitive raid, following Irish attacks on Galloway, the Lord of which was Nithsdale's father, Archibald the Grim.

Carlingford received five charters in total—the first in 1326 by Edward II and the last in 1619 under James I. The increased trade encouraged the rich mercantile class to build, the results of which can be seen today in the remains of the Mint and Taffe's Castle.