Historian to explore the Siege of Derry and Apprentice Boys history at Broughshane talk

A leading County Armagh historian will visit Broughshane this week to give a public presentation examining one of the most significant events in Irish and British history ahead of the annual Relief of Derry commemorations next month.

The Broughshane Branch of the Apprentice Boys of Derry is hosting historian Quincey Dougan for an evening exploring the Siege of Derry and the history of the Apprentice Boys, with the talk taking place on Wednesday 29 July at Broughshane Orange Hall.

Exploring a defining chapter of history

The event comes as attention begins to turn towards the annual commemorations marking the relief of Derry, one of the defining moments of the Williamite War in Ireland.

The siege began in late 1688 after 13 apprentice boys closed the gates of the walled city against advancing forces loyal to King James II. The city endured a 105-day siege before relief ships broke through river defences in July 1689, an event commemorated annually by the Apprentice Boys of Derry.

Historians widely regard the siege as a pivotal episode in the Williamite War and the wider political upheaval of the Glorious Revolution.

County Armagh historian Quincey Dougan

Speaking ahead of the presentation, Mr Dougan said:

“The Siege of Derry is pivotal moment in the history of the British Isles, indeed impacted world history! It was the Siege that ensured the success of the Glorious Revolution and all of the reforms it delivered. The Siege laid the foundations for the democracy and freedoms that we take so much for granted today.”

Open invitation

The presentation is expected to appeal to anyone with an interest in local history, the Williamite period and the development of the Apprentice Boys organisation.

The event begins at 7.30pm on Wednesday 29 July at Broughshane Orange Hall.

Anyone seeking further information can contact Quincey Dougan on 07835 624 221.

The talk provides an opportunity to explore the historical background to traditions that continue to form part of Northern Ireland’s cultural calendar, while examining the wider historical significance of the Siege of Derry nearly 340 years after the events took place.