Cavalry sabre unearthed during Thiepval dig
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| L-R Brigadier GPR Norton, Ian McCully of Henry Brothers, Lisburn Mayor Councillor Ronnie Crawford and Brian Mackey, Curator of Lisburn Linen Museum. Image by Mike O'Neill. | L-R Brigadier GPR Norton, Ian McCully of Henry Brothers, Lisburn Mayor Councillor Ronnie Crawford and Brian Mackey, Curator of Lisburn Linen Museum. Image by Mike O'Neill. |
WHEN the decision was taken to build new married quarters at Thiepval Barracks in Lisburn, an archaeological survey was carried out in the area.
And it proved to be a fortuitous decision as Henry Brothers, who were to build the new quarters, commissioned an archaeological dig at the site which uncovered a fantastic find.
During the dig in 2008 a Cavalry Sabre was unearthed, which was then carbon dated to about 1796.
Following the recent completion of the new building, the sabre was presented to the Mayor of Lisburn Councillor Ronnie Crawford and Brian Mackey, Curator of Lisburn Museum, by Brigadier GPR Norton and Ian McCully of Henry Brothers.
After having been returned to Lisburn City, the sword will now be displayed in the local museum.
In recognition for the presentation of the sabre, Lisburn Mayor presented Brigadier Norton with an illustration depicting militia volunteers from around the same time as the sword was dated.
Lisburn Mayor, Councillor Ronnie Crawford presents Brigadier GPR Norton with an illustration depicting militia volunteers from around the same time as the sword was dated. Image by Mike O'Neill.
Ulster Star
10/04/2009
