Ballinaglera (Baile na gCléireach) is a small village at the heart of Leitrim, marking the boundary between South and North Leitrim, Leitrim and Cavan and, indeed, the Provinces of Connaught and Ulster! The village includes St Hugh’s Church, two pubs, a Day-care Centre, Community Hall and GAA pitch.
Historically, the area around Ballinaglera is full of interest. It boasts evidence of very early settlements, including a “Giant’s Grave” (court cairn). More recently, sweat houses were built in the area, 26 around Ballinaglera, dating from the 18th century. These are beehive-shaped, corbelled structures that were used as a remedy for back-aches, rheumatism, headaches, etc.
In addition, there are two holy wells in Ballinaglera – St Hugh’s Well (Tobar Bheo-Aoidh) in the townland of Cleighran Beg and St Brigid’s Well (Tobal Bhríd) in the townland of Gréagnafarna. St Brigid’s Well has the reputation for curing toothache, while St Hugh’s Well combats mearbhall intinne (confusion). St Hugh’s Well is named after Naomh Aoidh or Hugh, after which the local church is named.
Ballinaglera, Dowra, Newbridge 