New Book - Our First Century at Kintullagh

Have you ever wondered how St Louis Grammar School was established in Ballymena in 1924? How Kintullagh House became a convent and the first all girls Catholic school in the area? Now is your opportunity to find out. You can explore the history of Kintullagh House and St Louis Ballymena through the pages of a new hardback, commemorative book specially commissioned to mark the school’s Centenary.

‘Our First Century at Kintullagh’ provides a unique insight into the school’s development, from the arrival of the four founding Sisters of St Louis in 1924, to its position today as one of the top Grammar Schools in Northern Ireland.

Written by Derval Fitzsimons, a former pupil and renowned writer and broadcaster, the book also examines the history of Kintullagh House in Ballymena.

Derval reflected, “Kintullagh House has been at the heart of Ballymena for over 150 years. The original 35 acre estate had been owned by the Right Honourable John Young, Chairman and founder of the Braidwater Spinning Company, whose family seat was Galgorm Castle.

Designed by Sir Charles Lanyon, the mansion, which in 1924 became the Convent house, was built as a wedding gift for his son William and his bride, and cousin, Margaret Gihon, who was of French extraction. In honour of her heritage the fleur-de-lys was incorporated into many of the home’s embellishments - a touch appreciated by the nuns whose order was also French in origin. Kintullagh House continues to inspire our pupils today as part of the Centre for Creative and Expressive Arts at the school”.

Full of photographs and illustrations from the last 100 years and with additional contributions from past pupils and members of staff through the decades, the book is a must-have for everyone associated with St Louis and those with a wider interest in the history of Ballymena.

Published at the beginning of November the book will be a perfect Christmas gift for those families and friends who have experienced the very special St Louis values system and the school’s family centred approach to education.

Copies of the book are now available to order here