FREEMASONS OF BALLYCASTLE & DISTRICT

THE IRISH REBELLION OF 1798

The 1700's were a turbulent time in the world with revolutions breaking out in Scotland, The American Colonies and in France. People were rising against the great powers of the time, France and Britain, and Ireland was no different.

 In Ireland the 1798 Rebellion was planned in the North of Ireland at Ballintoy Rectory, and the Uprising began with many men marching towards Dublin in order to try and oust the British. However the communications between the Northern Rebels and those from Wexford in the south was not good, and the Uprising was eventually quelled by the Crown forces with great retribution.

During this time the Lodges in Ballycastle formed themselves into an armed militia in order to keep the peace and hold the town on behalf of The Crown.

THE CARY YEOMANRY

A short time later during the Napoleonic Wars the coasts around Ireland were being fortified because of fears of invasion from Napoleon and his armies. At a meeting on 8^th September 1808, at Ballycastle Lodge Room, a declaration was signed by the Lodges of the District with volunteers to the Cary Yeomanry.

The Lodges in Ballycastle and district formed themselves into an armed militia (the Cary Yeomanry), for the purpose of holding and keeping the peace in Ballycastle and District, on behalf of the Crown, in the event of an invasion from the French forces, under Napoleon.

At the above meeting on 8^th September, the following Lodges attended;

W. Bro. W. B. Black P.M. P.P.G.J.D., P.G.I. Mentioned in the excerpt (left) of the Lodge Minute book.

A page from the lodge minute book detailing the presentation of wedding gifts to two members of the Lodge.

Contact Details

Email: info@irishfreemasons.com

Map of Cary and Dunluce Area