For the first thirty years of its existence there was little change with the structure of the workhouse and fixtures and fittings remained sparse.
In the early 1870s however a number of changes were implemented in order to modernise the building and also to make it more habitable for those who lived and worked there.
In 1870, gas was introduced to the workhouse and the work carried out by Robert Green of Magherafelt. A lantern was erected over the entrance gate, the effect of which made the place less foreboding for those approaching the workhouse. Steam boilers and new chimney stacks were also included in the refurbishments, with James McCracken of Belfast carrying this work. A male ‘consumptive’ ward was also laid out, while the guardians also converted one of the old women’s wards in the infirmary into a Female Consumptive Ward. In 1883 an overhaul of the kitchen facilities in the workhouse was carried out by Rankin, Fraser and Co of Cookstown and Magherafelt which included the fitting of two galvanised iron cisterns, each 5 feet 6 inches long and 5 feet deep. In 1901 they had the antiquated cooking apparatus replaced by modern appliances, and in 1909 the old boilers gave place to two of the very latest patterns. It was as late as 1935 by the time electric light was added to the workhouse, at a time when reports noted that modern sanitation was still lacking in the building.
Other improvements were brought about by the generosity of members of the community including Lord and Lady Spencer Chichester, Mrs. Lenox-Conyngham, Mrs Clarke and Mrs Bruce. The donated items included armchairs, knives, forks and plates while Lady Spencer Chichester, gave an annual cheque to the matron, by which bathing accommodation has been provided for the infirm, healthy and children classes, clocks for infirm wards, garden seats provided; several wards and dormitories ceiled, wainscoted and made warm and comfortable.
