Landlord and Market Town

Main Street Birr c1910

Photograph of thriving Main Street Birrc 1910. Showing Griffins Bakery to left foreground

Main Street Birr c1910

Main Street Birr c1910

Photograph of thriving Main Street Birrc 1910. Showing Griffins Bakery to left foreground

Enlarge image

Main Street Birr c 1950

Photograph of Main Street Birr c 1950 with Dolans to left foreground

Main Street Birr c 1950

Main Street Birr c 1950

Photograph of Main Street Birr c 1950 with Dolans to left foreground

Enlarge image

Under the patronage of the Parsons family, the town developed into a well established market town and administrative centre. In the 16th century Sir Lawrence Parsons had secured several grants to hold markets and fairs in the town.

Market Square seen below, is sited near an old market house and courthouse. A focal point at the square is the memorial to the Manchester Martyrs which was erected in 1867.

Retail premises, each with distinctive frontages, were established along Cumberland Street, St. John's Mall and Market Square. These businesses were typical of the time, combining as they often did several businesses such as grocery and a public house under one roof.

Below shopfronts along Main Street can be seen: most of these businesses were begun in the late 19th century. Several shops also existed along St John's Mall but these have long been converted to residential use.