Football in the Boys’ Brigade exhibition to launch at BB Museum in Carrickfergus
The Boys’ Brigade East Antrim Battalion Heritage Society has announced the launch of its latest exhibition, ‘Football in the Boys’ Brigade’.
The exhibition, opening on Thursday, May 14 at the Boys’ Brigade Museum on 13 North Street, Carrickfergus, will run from 2:00pm until 8:00pm, with the official opening at 3:00pm by the Mayor of Mid and East Antrim.
With just a month to go before the opening of the FIFA World Cup, the timely exhibition highlights the long and rich connection between football and the Boys’ Brigade.
The display explores how the game has played a central role in company life, community engagement, physical development, and team spirit across generations.
Visitors will be able to view a range of historic photographs, memorabilia, archival materials, and personal stories that highlight football’s impact within the Brigade from its earliest years through to the modern day.
A spokesperson for the Boys' Brigade East Antrim Battalion Heritage Society said: “Football has always been more than just a game within the Boys’ Brigade. It has helped shape character, build friendships, and strengthen communities. This exhibition brings together powerful memories and rare items that tell that story.”
The exhibition is expected to run for at least four months, allowing ample opportunity for schools, community groups, families, and visitors from across the region to attend.
The launch event is open to the public, and all past and present Boys’ Brigade members, families, schools, local community groups, and sports enthusiasts are warmly invited to attend.
Light refreshments will be available throughout the afternoon.
About the Boys’ Brigade Museum
The museum first opened in October 2023 on High Street after operating for a number of years as a pop-up in Carrickfergus, Larne and Ballyclare.
In March 2025, the East Antrim Battalion Heritage Society signed a three year lease on the current location on North Street.
The venue showcases a large collection of memorabilia, all telling the story of the organisation's 140-year plus history.
The Boys’ Brigade itself was founded in Glasgow on October 4,1883 by Sir William Alexander Smith.
From this one Company formed in Scotland, the BB has grown in to a worldwide movement, having worked with millions of children and young people.