63a Hill Street, Newry, Co Down, BT34 1AF

The building at 63a Hill Street, Newry, was originally erected around 1794 as an assembly and public reading room, and also housed a savings bank. It was built on a bleach green by subscribers and was the first building on that part of the street. According to historical records, it served as newsrooms until approximately 1916, when it was converted for commercial use. The building was refurbished in 1871, and any surviving decorative features on the facade may date from this period. Following the 1798 rebellion, the heads of executed insurgents were reportedly displayed above the entrance. The building was designed by Major G.W. Reside.

The original building was two storeys with a stucco finish to the upper floor and a slate roof. It featured three Venetian windows and one modern window facing the street, with pilasters on panelled pedestals rising to an entablature featuring triglyphs in the frieze. The appearance of the facade was disrupted by later alterations and shop front expansions, notably to the premises of Scott & Scott.

The building was demolished around a decade ago, and the site is now occupied by a modern structure. It stood within the Carneyhough townland and was located within a conservation area.