1500 - 1798

Perhaps the most interesting items in our collection from this period are maps, particularly those from the 17th century. The influence of major land-owning families on our area is epitomised by the Southwell Family, who owned much of Downpatrick and made many improvements to the town in the 18th century.

Portrait in oil, Lady Elizabeth Southwell, nee Cromwell (1674-1709)

Related article : From monastic to secular