Since 1987 the Queen's University at Belfast has been developing the ‘Northern Ireland Place-Name Project’ and compiling an incredible database of names that sometimes date back over a thousand years.
In compiling the Derry city section the compendium draws heavily on John Bryson's seminal 'Derry's Streets'. Other sources, including George Vaughan Sampson's map of Co. Derry of 1814, are also cited.
Some of the meanings suggested in the database are open to interpretation and debate but make for fascinating reading.
Based in Queen’s University, the project works in collaboration with Land and Property Services in the Department of Finance in providing a free online database of our local place-names (www.placenamesni.org. This is accompanied by an interactive searchable map of historical names (townlands, parishes, baronies and counties) which is provided by LPS.
5. Ballyarnett Village (Sráidbhaile Bhaile Arnóid). Ballyarnett is a townland in the parish of Templemore. The current form of the name relates to the name 'Arnóid/Arnett'. 'Arnett' is still found locally as a surname. However, there is some doubt over the original final consonant as historical versions of the name include 'Ballyarnil' and similar forms and there may also be a link with the name 'Airnean'.
Ballyarnett Village (Sráidbhaile Bhaile Arnóid). Ballyarnett is a townland in the parish of Templemore. The current form of the name relates to the name 'Arnóid/Arnett'. 'Arnett' is still found locally as a surname. However, there is some doubt over the original final consonant as historical versions of the name include 'Ballyarnil' and similar forms and there may also be a link with the name 'Airnean'.
6. Brewster's Close (Clos Brewster). Named after James Brewster (1848-1922), owner of the Model Bakery. (Bryson).
Brewster's Close (Clos Brewster). Named after James Brewster (1848-1922), owner of the Model Bakery. (Bryson).
7. Ballynacraig Gardens (Garraithe Bhaile na Creige). Possibly named after the townland of 'Craig(s)' or 'Craigtown' located about two miles to the north, over the county boundary in Donegal. (Bryson).
Ballynacraig Gardens (Garraithe Bhaile na Creige). Possibly named after the townland of 'Craig(s)' or 'Craigtown' located about two miles to the north, over the county boundary in Donegal. (Bryson).