Launch of Ballinamuck 225th Commemoration weekend takes place this week

The committee behind the planning of a commemoration to one of the most crucial turning points in Irish history will unveil the programme this Saturday.

Ballinamuck 225th Commemoration promises to be a weekend of family fun, laughter and craic, with something for everyone whilst remembering the fallen of the Battle of Ballinamuck.

The launch will get underway a 8:00pm, on Saturday August 12 in the iconic ’98 Bar in Ballinamuck.

This original thatched public house, which dates back to the time of the battle, sits at the foot of Kiltycreevagh Hill, a gateway to Ballinamuck and crossed by General Humbert’s French forces prior to the battle.

Organisers have advised those interested in being part of the festivities to attend the launch: “It will be a great chance to meet and greet our local pikeman and see the type of uniform required. We have had a huge response to our call to arms looking for pikemen and pike women, but if you are still considering volunteering to take part, and to avoid disappointment as there are only limited numbers available please note, the launch night will be the final cut off date to register your details.”

Those participating must be a minimum age of 16 years old. If you wish to take part in any of the four days of events feel free to approach any committee member at the launch event: “We will be delighted to speak to anyone interested. Information can also be found on our social media channels and website which are packed with everything you need to know,” the Leader was told.

The Battle of Ballinamuck was the last engagement of the 1798 Rebellion by the United Irishmen in Ireland. It took place on 8 September 1798 and marked the defeat of the main force of the French incursion.

Some 500 Irish rebels and French troops are believed to be buried in a mass grave at the top of Shanmullagh Hill in Ballinamuck. September's event will commemorate this pivotal event in Irish history, respectfully remembering those who fought and died while also taking the opportunity to celebrate shared French and Irish culture and heritage.

The programme outlined so far has a wide range of activities. Thursday starts off the events with a mass in St Patrick's church, remembering all who perished in the Battle of Ballinamuck, followed by traditional music in the 98 local public bar, including fireworks from both Shanmullagh and Kilycreevagh hills, the sites of where the skirmishes took place in 1798.

Friday will start with an impressive display of artwork from the local schools, there will be guided tours of the various historic sites, followed by the official opening and live music by Johnny Brady.

Saturday is the Highlight of the weekend where the march from Keeldra to Ballinamuck, prior to the re- enactment will take place, (All welcome in 1798 costume) followed by the re-enactment itself.

The re-enactment will be a chance to witness what our ancestors went through in this historic battle. The Paddy Cullivan's show-The year of the French (Age restriction over 12's) followed by a night with live bands The High Stool Prophets, and Rhythm & Sticks.

The weekends not over yet Sunday is a family based day with a huge amount packed into one day from things like a living history campsite, giant colouring board, dance workshops, games, historical GAA football match, tug of war tournament (Tug Of War Ireland official event), market stalls, live music and dance, and much much more.

Finishing off the night with live music from Cronin, Mick Flavin and Nite Fever. So all roads lead to Ballinamuck 7-10 September. For more details you can also pop along to the launch night a 8:00pm, August 12 in The ’98 Bar in Ballinamuck.

For further information, follow Battle of Ballinamuck on social media or check out www.battleofballinamuck.ie.