According to Encyclopedia Britannica the first signs of
settlement on the site of the town date from around 1375 when an Augustinian friary
was founded. Belleek, now part of the town, pre-dates the town’s formation, and
can be dated back to the late 15th century, or early 16th century. However,
what is now known as Belleek Castle was built in 1831. Ballina was officially
established as a town in 1723 by O'Hara, Lord Tyrawley.