Charter of Killybegs
An urban network developed in Co Donegal as a result of the Plantation of Ulster. The most important part of the urbanisation process was incorporation which meant the establishment of a local government system by way of a charter (written constitution):
Killybegs with Ballyshannon, Donegal, Lifford and St Johnston were privileged to have that honour of incorporation conferred on them.
By order of King James I, King of England, the new brough town of Killybegs was established by Royal Charter on 14th December 1615. Roger Jones was the first Provost (Mayor) of Killybegs. Among all the conditions of the charter was how the streets were to be laid out for defence as well as appearance, hence the narrow streets. This new town consisted of the present Main Street and Bridge Street.