It is likely Newforge Dale takes its name from Newforge House which was in the vicinity. Heatley and Dixon refer to a John Russell living at Newforge - he was born in 1777 and married Catherine Holmes in 1801 who was the daughter of the Belfast banker - John Holmes. New Forge House - according to Dean - recorded as being the residence of Hugh Allen in 1780. New Forge House - according to Dean - recorded as being the residence of Hugh Allen in 1780.
Further Information
Belfast had thriving iron industry where iron ore was imported from Cumberland and smelted at Old Forge and New Forge both the Lagan. According to Bardon nearly 50 tons of iron were exported from Belfast in 1683. In less than a century the colonists had felled many great woods which had been the source of charcoal for the furnaces.