Geology
The geology of the county can be divided in two – a northern upland region with older, Ordovician and Silurian rocks of slate, shale, sandstone and greywacke – about 450 to 420 million years old. In the southern lowland region younger Carboniferous rocks of limestone – about 350 to 330 million years old, are the most common rock types in the county.
In the 1960s and 1970s, mining companies discovered the Keel deposit of zinc sulphide and lead sulphide. There was insufficient commercial quantity and the mine closed down.
The soil of the county is very varied changing from a light thin mould in the north- west to deep loamy clay in the south.
Cairn Hill
Cairn Hill, 916 feet, is the highest point in County Longford. It is crowned by a pre historic cairn and offers an extensive view of the Central Plain on a clear day. An RTE mast is now sited on its summit.
Natural Heritage Areas
The bogs of Aghamona, Cloonageeher, Forthill, and Mt. Jessop, are designated NHA areas in the county. Special areas of conservation (SAC) protect habitats of community interest (raised and active blanket bogs, turloughs, lakes and rivers) and also aims to protect animal and plant species (bats, salmon, white clawed crayfish.) These are found in Longford including the Lough Ree and Lough Forbes complex.
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Content
History & Heritage
- History of Ireland
- 1798 An Overview of the Rebellion
- 1798 Glossary of Terms
- 1798 in Carlow
- 1798 Rebellion in Co. Kildare
- History of Ireland Feature
- Bianconi Festa 2011
- Bianconi Festa 2011
- County Histories
- Development of Public Library Service in Waterford
- First Local Authority Public Library in Ireland
- Galway Society in the Past
- Genealogical Resources available in Waterford
- Historic Film Clips Collection
- John Wesley in Dublin
- Pass of the Plumes
- The Flight of the Earls 1607
- The Ulster Plantation
- Waterford Businesses of the Past
- Wexford Connections: The Redmond Family & National Politics
- Architecture
- Big Houses of Ireland
- Built Heritage 1700 - Today
- Folklore of Ireland
- Heritage Towns
- Irish Genealogy
- Monuments & Built Heritage
- Pages in History
- Poor Law Union
- Special Collections
- Traditional Crafts