As we celebrate 300 years since the town of Ballina was formally established back in 1723, let’s take a minute to get to know its founder, as he made his first appearace in person in Ballina at this years National Heritage Day, during Ballina Salmon Festival 2023!

Field Marshal James O’Hara, the 2nd Baron Tyrawley and 1st Baron Kilmaine, PC (1682 – 14 July 1774), was an Irish officer in the British Army, credited with officially designating Ballina as a town as a commercial centre (though of course we know Ballina is much older!. He was born the son of Charles O’Hara, 1st Baron Tyrawley, whom he succeeded, and Frances O’Hara (née Rouse), During his military career, he was colonel of eight different regiments and travelled worldwide during his distinguished career as a military commander between 1703 and 1773

Lord Tyrawley died at Twickenham on 14 July 1774 and is buried in the chapel of the Royal Hospital Chelsea.

Lotd Tyrawley spent the day with his party as he wandered through the streets of the town he once founded, in full costume, with thanks to Riverside Theatre Group, who brought Lotd Tyrawley to Life and the Ballina Costume Company, who spent months working on and creating Lord Tyrawleys costume.