The period of the 18th Century (1700-1799) in Ulster has come to be known loosely as 'The Linen Period". It was a period of comparative peace and local estates flourished and expanded, sustained by the production of cotton and linen goods. Religious and class devisions remained a spark for social agitation, however, and, towards the end of the century, many feared that the revolutionary fervour in France might spread here. Notable for the area was the first 12th of July parade, held by the newly-formed Orange Order in Gosford Demesne.