Ballon Church - SS. Peter & Paul. The history of this church is scant. According to John Duffy in his excellent book, 'The Churches of Kildare & Leighlin, 2000
AD" the following is given. The original rectangular church was built in stages from 1714 to 1731 during Penal Times and was thatched; it consisted of the present two side - aisles. The walls in the present church are built with granite from Ballon Hill. The stone is very hard and has a green tint. Now cruciform, the church's long aisle was built by Rev. John Kehoe P.P; in the 1870's. He also roofed the church with slates. A bust of Fr. Kehoe is placed in the main aisle. In October 1901 the new High Altar was consecrated by Bishop Patrick Foley in memory of Fr. P.F. Nolan P.P. Atop the four gables are four granite crosses, each one a different style. Internal refurbishing took place 1977 - 1978, with further renovations in 1996 - 1997. [from
www.ballonvillage.com]
Ballon Hill
Cummins
Families of County Carlow, Ireland
