‘Considerable’ World War Two history in Carrickfergus

Carrick’s ‘considerable’ links to history’s most devastating global conflict have been highlighted thanks to the efforts of a Bangor man.
Inside one of the buildings at Seamount Heavy Anti-Aircraft Gun Battery.  INCT 52-720-CONInside one of the buildings at Seamount Heavy Anti-Aircraft Gun Battery.  INCT 52-720-CON
Inside one of the buildings at Seamount Heavy Anti-Aircraft Gun Battery. INCT 52-720-CON

Andy Glenfield began researching, visiting and photographing locations around the province which were linked to the Second World War as a hobby.

He soon gathered enough information to found his website, The Second World War in Northern Ireland.

“I started the website because I believe that when people think of WWII, they look to other countries or some ‘far off field’ whilst there is lots to be seen in Northern Ireland to illustrate what took place here,” said Andy, whose grandfather was a veteran of Dunkirk.

“There is a considerable military history within Carrickfergus that is clearly illustrated with the Castle, 25 pounder field gun and Churchill tank, which are all clearly visible.”

While the United States Rangers Centre along with the Sunnylands Camp memorial are well known, there are other sites which may not be as easily found.

“There is an air raid shelter in the Flame Museum and a Local Defence Volunteers building off Woodburn Road,” Andy added.

“Kilroot Gun Battery is still virtually intact; however, it is not accessible as it is owned by Irish Salt Mines.

“A heavy anti-aircraft gun battery remains in good condition at Seamount although it is on private ground, which must be respected.”

In Victoria Cemetery, meanwhile, stands a memorial to Private James Cameron, 21st Independent Parachute Company who died as the result of wounds received during the Battle of Arnhem. He is buried in Appledorn, The Netherlands.

“Recently I visited Sullatober Mill, which I had read was used as a Prisoner Of War Camp during WWII. The staff were very helpful and I was shown the barred windows and told of Italian prisoner having been put to work here,” said Andy.

“My research has found reference to a ‘Royal Naval detention centre’ and ‘Military Detention Barracks, Carrickfergus’, and I believe both of these refer to Sullatober Mill where the Naval Personnel were kept separate from others.

“I believe that Sullatober may have been used initially as a detention barracks for Allied personnel; however as this function was moved to Colchester then Prisoners of War were put to use at Sullatober.”

The local man is calling for anyone who has more information on war-time activities at Sullatober to get in touch at [email protected].

The Second World War in Northern Ireland website is available at http://www.ww2ni.webs.com