WWI time capsule to be laid in foundations of new housing estate

A TIME capsule commemorating World War One will be laid in the foundations of a new Belfast housing development to honour hundreds of fallen soldiers from the area.

Blackstaff Residents’ Association chairman Billy Dickson, who has organised a commemoration event at Seventy Six South on Saturday, described the gesture as a fitting tribute to those who gave their lives.

“The first of the new houses on Kitchener Drive and Frenchpark Street will be finished in this centenary year and we felt it was a great opportunity to acknowledge the Armistice which was declared in 1918,” he said.

“We were inspired by all the time capsules being buried around the UK this year.

“But we have opted for a memorial capsule instead.

“It’s important that our children pause and reflect on those who laid our true foundations as we build for their future.”

The 16x3in stainless steel pod will contain the names of 240 soldiers who paid the ultimate price, along with memorabilia including a USB stick containing a PowerPoint presentation, plastic poppies and a three-inch Bible that belonged to a WWI soldier.

Limited space is available for anyone who wishes to contribute a photo or small object of historical significance.

The names of all the pupils currently attending Blythefield, Fane Street and Donegall Road Primary Schools will be included, with one pupil representing each school taking part in the ceremony.

“It will be a small gathering due to health and safety but I think it’s going to be very emotive. There will be a piper and a bugler playing hymns,” he said.

Mr Dickson, who has been in discussions with the Hagan Homes site foreman, said he has requested the property closest to Kitchener Drive to host the pod. It was named after Earl Kitchener, whose image appeared in a famous recruitment poster of the time.

“It’s a nod to all the brave volunteers who responded to Kitchener’s call,” Mr Dickson said.

History enthusiast David Gourley will provide insight into the stories behind the local soldiers, which included a father and son and three brothers from Roden Street, as well as former Linfield player Isaac McConnell.

“I’ll also be bringing a big spanner to screw the capsule lid closed,” he said.