Termonfeckin figures prominently throughout history and indeed prehistory. Archaeological finds indicate that a Neolithic community inhabited the coastline around 3,000 B.C. Among the finds, a polished axe head provides evidence for Neolithic activity and the beginning of farming practices.
Evidence exists within the archaeological record of Termonfeckin for the presence of settlements through the Bronze and Iron Ages.
Despite the obvious wealth of early history, Termonfeckin is better known as the site of an Early Christian Monastery of seventh century date. Named after its founding saint, the place name translates (Tearmann Feichin) as the sanctuary of St. Feckin.
The medieval history of Termonfeckin is also well documented with reference to a second monastic foundation, located along the Baltray Road in the area immediately North of the present day National School and a monastery of nuns, most likely situated towards the end of Nunnaryland Lane.
The Anglo-Norman invasion ensured that from the 13th century Englishmen filled the Prematial See of Armagh. A great palace was erected for these Norman Archbishops in Termonfeckin on the South bank of the river westwards from the bridge. Parts of the original surrounding wall can still be seen along the river.
Beside the castle in which the Primates lived there is also a Tower House, which is now a National Monument. It is situated to the East of the village on a hill overlooking the river and valley. It has some fine steep battlements and excellent examples of Trefoil headed windows. Its most unusual feature is the corbelled roof on the third storey.
