Posts made in June, 2014

Writing this article just before the 100th anniversary of the start of The Great War it is impossible to comprehend the effects that Total War had on the lives of Kilkenny people a hundred years ago. The origins of the war are well understood and documented, however the effects that were experienced by men and women joining their local regiment or red cross establishment are less well established. It has been articulated that the...

Welcome to the Kilkenny Military Heritage Project – this project presents information about Kilkenny’s military heritage in an objective and historically accurate, inclusive and respectful way. It is not intended to glorify war or death. The project is a joint initiative between the Heritage Office of Kilkenny County Council and the Kilkenny Barracks Museum. The project presents articles about various aspects of Kilkenny’s...

The National Museum of Ireland – Decorative Arts and History will hold a conference on 25th October 2014, and are now looking for submission of papers from anyone interested in presenting their work. The conference will explore personal and collective experiences of the First World War as well as memories and ways of commemorating the War, both in Ireland and internationally. Papers may deal with any of the aspects of this...

The Victoria Cross on Monument Hill PTE JOHN BARRY VC. Larry Scallan Kilkenny man John Barry is one of the five soldiers of the Royal Irish Regiment who were awarded the Victoria Cross. The medal was introduced in 1856 during the Crimean war. Approved by Queen Victoria as the highest British award for gallantry, the Victoria Cross was made available for award to “officers or men who have served the forces in the presence of the enemy,...

Lt Walter Hamilton VC.  Larry Scallan Kilkenny Military Heritage Project The study of military history allows the reader to analyse and critique the decisions of the commanders of past campaigns with the benefit of hindsight and 360 degree vision; it’s easy to see where fundamental mistakes were made. Unfortunately commanders on the ground rarely have the complete picture of what threats they are facing and an astute enemy will be...