Two hundred forty-eight years ago, the following advert appeared in the Belfast News-Letter:
“WHEREAS a Bridge is intended to be built next Summer across the River Bann, at Portneil near Kilrea in the County of Londonderry, with Stone and Lime Piers, and covered with Beams after the Plan of Colerain Bridge. Any Person or Persons, who will undertake to finish the same, are desired to send his, or their Proposals to Alexander Stewart, Esq, at his House in Henry-Street, Dublin, or to Abraham Hamilton, Esq; at his House in Bellaghy. Francis Clinton of Killrea will shew the Place where said Bridge is intended to be built.
“Dated this 7th Day of April, 1767.”
by Alison Kirkpatrick