A new book exploring the role that alumni from a north Belfast school played in the First World War has been launched.
St Malachy’s College and the Great War is a collection of stories detailing the roles of more than 20 former pupils who served in a wide range of regiments and units on several fronts.
Published alongside the Ulster Historical Foundation, it provides a voice for men who enlisted in the British Army more than a century ago.
It also reveals part of the nationalist narrative of a history that has not been told since the creation of the Northern Ireland state.
The book, and a forthcoming series of exhibitions, is the result of a research project into past pupils at the Catholic grammar school for boys undertaken by current year 13 students.
The boys combed through the St Malachy’s College archives, censuses, newspapers, death certificates, wills and army records to piece together the stories and personal sacrifices of the men featured.
During the project the students were invited to visit the Orange Hall on Clifton Street, near to the school, which has a rich source of World War I artefacts.
Under the direction of teacher Conor McGinn and former St Malachy’s pupil and historian John Gordon, the boys were also supported by William Roulston, research director at the Ulster Historical Foundation.
The book launch was attended by descendants of some of the men who fought in the Great War and who feature in the book, as well as Phillip McGarry, deputy lord lieutenant.
Speaking at the event, Mr Gordon said: “Following the partition of Ireland in 1921, very often the stories of those who fought for the British, especially from men of a nationalist background, were suppressed or even shunned.
“Consequently, the bravery of these fine St Malachy’s men has remained hidden for over 100 years.
“The project and resulting book has confirmed without a shadow of doubt that alumni from the college played a small but important role in the Great War.
“At long last we are able to shed light on these local heroes.
“Once hidden, their stories of courage, endurance and sacrifice, with some paying the ultimate sacrifice to safeguard the small nations of Europe, are now out there in the light for all to see.”
Principal Paul McBride, said: “Over the last number of years, the college has been reminded of its rich history through the renovation of our O’Laverty Library and the ongoing cataloguing of our own archive.
“History has come to life with wonderful artefacts, diaries, letters, photographs and documents which have enhanced our understanding of college life in both the 19th and 20th centuries.
“Now, what started out as an enrichment programme for Year 13 students has developed into an enlightening series of stories about former students and their families and how the First World War impacted upon their lives and the college community.”
Copies of the book are available from the college office.
