When the Marquis of Donegall went to reside at Ormeau about 1807 the Marchioness did not admire the drive through Lagan village, then locally known as The Rookery", with its row of dilapidated cottages decorated with rags stuffed in the broken window-panes. Accordingly a special way was made for her ladyship by the improvement of a little by-road or lane, almost opposite her gate, known as the "Rookery Loanin." This ran from the end of Lagan village, out to the Gooseberry Comer on the Woodstock and Beersbridge Road, and by this roundabout way reached the town. When the Ormeau. Bridge was completed in 1815 it obviated the detour". (John J. Marshall, Belfast Telegraph, 31/01/1941)
“… That the application of Mr. J. E. McConnell for permission to name a new street off My Lady's Road “Washington Avenue” be declined, the standing resolution of the Committee being that the word ‘Avenue’ shall only be applied to streets at least 50 feet wide”. (7th June 1893).
“That Mr Thomas E. McConnell be informed that the Committee do not see their way to approve of the name ‘Washingford Road’ for a new street situate off My Lady’s Road, and must request him to submit another name therefor.” (20th September 1893).