THROUGH THE ARCHIVES: Celebrations at the recovery of King George III

From the News Letter, March 25, 1789
A portrait of King George III. During this week in 1789 the News Letter noted that there was much celebration in Antrim and Down at the recovery of King George IIIA portrait of King George III. During this week in 1789 the News Letter noted that there was much celebration in Antrim and Down at the recovery of King George III
A portrait of King George III. During this week in 1789 the News Letter noted that there was much celebration in Antrim and Down at the recovery of King George III

The recovery of King George III had led to much celebration in Antrim and Down, reported the News Letter in this week in 1789.

A correspondent from Carrickfergus had written to the paper saying: “On Tuesday last the news of His Majesty’s happy recovery having reached this place, the inhabitants assembled in the evening, to testify their joy on that occasion, attended by Sir William Kirk the Mayor, who ordered abundance of ale and spirits to be distributed among the populace. The evening concluded with bonfires and illuminations, expressive of the sincere pleasure which every member of this ancient and loyal corporation feel on that happy event.”

Another correspondent had written from Downpatrick where there had also been celebrations for the King’s return to health.

The correspondent wrote: “In consequence of the very desirable news of His Majesty’s recovery being announced from authority there was a general illumination of this town on Monday evening last – a ball at the market house, and evening demonstration of joy suitable to the occasion. In the course of the day three companies of the 6th Regiment quartered at Killough marched in and joined five companies of the same regiment quartered here, and fired three vollies [sic] on the same occasion. It is but justice to say they made as fine an appearance as any troops in His Majesty’s service, being exceedingly well appointed, and great attention paid to discipline and behaviour by their officers. The Volunteer Company of the town also turned out and fired three vollies [sic].”

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