World War One history lectures

On Wednesday evening, Times editor Des Blackadder begins the first of three talks on different aspects of the war which he will deliver over a three week period.

The talk on Wednesday evening (October 15) will be hosted by Ballymena Central Library, Pat’s Brae.

Starting at 6.45pm, those attending will learn about the immediate impact of the war on the ‘regulars and reservists’ from Ballymena.

“These men were literally the ‘old sweats’ of the pre-war British army and they were virtually wiped out in the first few months of warfare on this scale,” says Des.

The following week, the venue for the talk is the Braid centre and the subject will be ‘Wild Colonial Boys’, which will deliver some stories and insights into the role played by men from Ballymena and District who served with what became known as the Imperial Forces - Canadians, Australians and New Zealanders.

The talk commences at 7.30pm.

To round-off a busy month, Des will deliver his third and final lecture to members of The Carson Project on Thursday, October 30 at the Garryowen Hall.

This time the main topic of discussion will be the social, economic and political scene which the people of Harryville found themselves in 1914 at the outbreak of war. There will also be an exhibition of World War 1 memorabilia. The exhibition will be open for viewing from 6 pm with Des speaking from 7:30 pm.

The Buffs Club, Connor on Saturday, November 1, from 1 to 5pm an event entitled ‘From Carson’s Army to Kitchener’s Army’ is taking place.

There will be an exhibition of Lambeg drums reflecting the journey of many young men from the Mid Antrim area. During the day there will be a display of drumming and fifing.

A local collector will be exhibiting his large collection of World War One memorabilia and at 4pm Philip Hamilton will be speaking on the 12th Battalion the Royal Irish Rifles and the life of Sgt Robert Quigg Victoria Cross. Both events are free and are open to all.