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| PORTSTEWART, CO. DERRY. -Portstewart fronts the ocean on the Derry coast, between Portrush and the mouth of the river Bann. It is not a large place, but is a deservedly popular sea-side resort, and therefore, commands an extensive patronage in the bathing season. The tall, massive building on the right of the picture is Portstewart Castle, surrounded by its battlemented wall, and seated on an eminence that adds much to its imposing aspect. The houses near the beach are used as bathing cottages in summer, and are constructed with far more regard to their solidity than their elegance. Main Street is the principal throughfare. Charles Lever, the Irish novelist, practiced medicine, as dispensary doctor, in this village, in his younger days. He resided at Verandah Cottage, which was pulled down some years ago, and the commodious residence erected in its place is called Lever House. William Makepeace Thackeray visited Portstewart on his Irish tour, and makes mention of it in his published diary. The great Methodist preacher and scholar, Dr. Adam Clarke, received his early education at a place called Agherton, in the neighborhood of the town. A fine seaward view is obtainable from the cliffs on which the castle is situated -the picturesque bulk of Innishowen Head forming a superb background. |
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