Dan Gordon better known as Red Hand Luke from ‘Give My Head Peace’ helped the Ulster People’s College and the Greenisland Local History Class launch their book ‘Greenisland – between the Knockagh and the Lough’ on Wednesday 22 November.  He praised the group for the excellent work they did in producing this book.

A group of local residents took part in a People’s History course provided by the UPC and met weekly since February to research and document the history of the local area. 

Group member Angela Campbell explains, “We recognised that until now there has been no written history on Greenisland so we felt it was important to share our findings with current residents and newcomers to the area via this book.”

‘Greenisland, between the Knockagh and the Lough’ explores the history and identity of Greenisland.  It looks at the changes that occurred in the area in the 1950s, 60s and early 70s and also reflects on life in Greenisland in the twenty first century.

The book explores the history of Greenisland Estate, the building of which began in the 1950s to provide housing for local workers.  The book also tells the story of Faunoran House that once stood on the site of the library which is now a key feature in community life.  The group also discovered that Rory Gallagher once ‘gigged’ in the Scout Hall!

UPC Director, Johnston Price, praised the group on the excellent book they produced.  Speaking at the launch he commented, “The group have produced an informative, interesting and valuable resource unique to their community that will no doubt benefit current and future generations.”

For further information on the People's History course offered by the UPC click here.  An introductory course is also available.