Have you been berry curious about the fate of Fruitfield Jam Factory?
It might be nice to see it preserved...
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It sits on the main Portadown to Armagh road and many pass it without even a glance. Whether or not you’ve looked closely at the building of late, you will no doubt be familiar with it’s vertical edifice – the red brick chimney which still towers the skyline; yes, the former Fruitfield Jam Factory.
The building itself has recently been exposed to road view due to groundworks on the site of what was once a family owned business and a leading employer in the area. But what’s occurring?
Diggers have been spotted over the last number of months and the grounds around the beloved jam factory now appear to be in-waiting for the next phase. Wouldn’t it be jammy if it reopened?
It’s a sad thought to imagine the sun setting for a final time on the former factory. Its rays now permeate the skeleton of a building once packed with life; a sweet place that churned out delicious, sticky spreads that were loved by all.
We doubt there was a home across Armagh that didn’t have a ‘Fruitfield Preserve’ tucked away in a corner cabinet. Maybe you have an old jar lovingly concealed as a reminder of times gone by?
Did you know anyone who worked in the old factory? Or do you have any interesting stories of its past? We’d love to hear them. Why not get in touch at news@armaghi.com
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Look back
77 years ago, The Newry Reporter reported that, on June 5, 1946 the Armagh Agricultural Society Show would proceed for its 42 year.
Held at Shamrock Park, Portadown in the year post-dating the end of World War II, the event showcased demonstrations and competitions that we still know and love today.
The article stated: “Though conditions naturally prevent the show’s taking such comprehensive form as in pre-war days the principal features are retained with varied classes for horses, cattle, sheep, swine and poultry.”
One of the most anticipated events was the ever-popular dog show with 70 classes to be conducted under Kennel Club rules.
Whilst it was no doubt a trying year for organisers, the article states that: “The efforts of the organising committee have been rewarded with excellent entries in all sections”.
Ticket giveaway
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Family announcements
As many readers will know Armagh I cover the funeral notices from across Co. Armagh, greater parts of Co. Down as well as our bordering Co. Tyrone towns. You can also place a lasting memoriam notice with us - and you can do it very easily here
Past issues
250 years young - doesn't The Mall look great for its age!
As the warm weather approaches, people all around the county are getting excited for a chance to soak up some sun and enjoy the great outdoors. The sun was shining brighter than a disco ball at a rave - ok there were some clouds for all you realists out there!
Bring Humpy the Camel back to city centre spot!
Armagh City Council and preservation society should really have purchased this building and land and developed the structure for the community of Richhill. This particular building is close on 200 years old, it provided work for the local community for nearly 150 years. There's plenty of land in the area to put homes. Quite incredible how a building that goes back to the 1830s, can be left to rot. This is what happens when the wrong people are left in charge of infrastructure and preservation within Ulster. You can always build more homes anywhere in Richhill and Portadown. Absolutely amazing anything is permitted to be built here other than preserving what was here.
Last time passing and looked up they were building a housing estate . Your photograph would seem to indicate they were demolishing the last of the factory. The chimney will no doubt go as no one will want to do regular maintenance..