The History Of Blackrock

Blackrock is a small seaside settlement with a rich history, was first recorded in the “Book of Dundalk” in 1752. The village developed as a fishing community in the early 19th century, and by 1841, it had a population of 507, residing in mostly small thatched fishermen’s cottages. However, in 1845, visitors to the area complained of the lack of hostelries and stabling, which prompted local landlord Thomas Fortescue to undertake the construction of a wall along the main beach and several lodging establishments, including the Blackrock Hotel, The Clermont Arms, and The Swan.

This marked the beginning of Blackrock’s rapid transformation into a popular holiday resort, attracting visitors from neighbouring counties as well as from Belfast and Scotland. This trend continued until the 1960s. Today, Blackrock is a bustling small town with a population of over 5,000 inhabitants, reflecting the prosperity and vibrancy that has been part of its history.