Aghalee Holy Trinity Church, Soldierstown

The historic church of Holy Trinity, Soldierstown (1667) has recently reopened after two years of restoration work, as part of Aghalee Parish Heritage Project. This traditional barn-style church with square tower, was built in the C17th Caroline style; and later enhanced in the early C19th, by the addition of a chancel and spire.

Built on the Hertford Estate, on land granted by Lord Conway, it replaced four ancient churches which were destroyed around the time of the Ulster Rebellion and Cromwell. The church contains many historic elements including several excellent examples of gothic-style stained-glass windows (1890s); and a silver chalice believed to have been donated by the Williamite army en-route to the Boyne; and the recent restoration aimed to retain the traditional style and authentic feel of the church. The west-gallery of the church holds a 100-year old 2-manual Evans & Barr pipe-organ; which was dedicated in 1922 to the parish members who gave their lives, and those who served, during the Great War.

To mark its centenary the organ has recently been completely restored; visitors with musical ability are welcome to play it by agreement.

The bell in the bell tower (unfortunately not accessible to the public) was cast by Henry Paris in 1699 and it bears the inscription 'Henry Paris made me a right good sounding bell to beat'. It is one of the few examples from this bell-maker still remaining in Ireland.

As well as viewing the church, visitors will also have an opportunity to browse an exhibition of photographs reflecting the heritage of the Aghalee parish area – with strong links to the hamlet of Soldierstown (a C17th military garrison) and the Lagan Navigation; as well as information telling the story of the four ancient churches which Holy Trinity replaced.

The church sits in a beautiful location, over-looking the Broadwater section of the Navigation.

Richard Owen, the engineer who oversaw the construction of the Navigation is buried in the graveyard.