The Royal Irish Fusiliers Museum, located in Sovereign’s House on The Mall in Armagh, is a compelling destination for those interested in military history. Dedicated to the legacy of the Royal Irish Fusiliers, a regiment of England’s army formed in 1793 and active until 1968, the museum offers a rich exploration of Irish military heritage through its extensive collection and engaging displays.
The museum chronicles the history of the Royal Irish Fusiliers, known as the “Faughs” from their battle cry “Faugh-a-Ballagh” (Clear the Way), and covers the Armagh, Cavan, and Monaghan Militias from 1793 to 1968. Displays include uniforms, medals, weapons, photographs, and personal memorabilia, providing a comprehensive look at the regiment’s role in major conflicts, including the Napoleonic Wars, both World Wars, and more.
- .A highlight is the Eagle Takers Gallery, which won Best Exhibition in Ireland in 2003. It features a large model depicting the regiment’s capture of the Imperial French Eagle at the Battle of Barrosa in 1811, a significant moment in the regiment’s history
- The museum showcases two Victoria Crosses, awarded posthumously to Private Robert Morrow and Lieutenant Geoffrey Cather for their bravery on the Western Front during World War I, offering a tangible connection to the regiment’s heroism.
- A timeline display contextualizes regimental events with broader historical events in Armagh, and the world, augmenting the interpretive experience.
Research and Genealogy Resources:
- The museum offers extensive research facilities for those tracing military heritage, with a large archive of soldier records and experienced research specialists. Research is available by appointment for a £35 fee, covering searches for medal index cards, attestation papers, war diaries, and more. Visitors can access these resources via books or computers on-site, making it a valuable stop for genealogists or historians.
- Notable publications, such as “Armagh Dead in the Great War” and “Armagh War Dead in WW2” by Joe and Stanley Burrows, highlight the museum’s commitment to documenting local sacrifices, particularly from Saint Mark’s Parish Church and areas west of the River Bann.
- Housed in the historic Grade B+ listed Sovereign’s House, a Georgian building near the Court House, the museum offers a charming and atmospheric setting. The building’s historical significance, once leased by the Archbishop of Armagh, adds depth to the visit.
- Admission is free, making it accessible to all. The museum features a shop selling regimental memorabilia, available both on-site and via an eBay store, but lacks disabled access due to the building’s historic nature. Toilets are available, and street parking is nearby.
- The museum is relatively small, which some visitors note as a limitation, but its well-organised displays and knowledgeable, friendly staff enhance the experience. Reviewers praise the museum for bringing the human side of military history to life through personal stories and accounts.
- Open Tuesday to Friday from 10:00 AM to 12:30 PM and 1:30 PM to 4:00 PM (except public holidays), with special openings like Georgian Day (November). Visitors should check for closures, such as during adverse weather or the Christmas period.
- Educational and Community Engagement: The museum offers talks and workshops for schools, clubs, and groups, providing tailored educational experiences about the regiment’s history. These must be booked in advance.
- The collection of paintings, started by the regiment in the mid-1800s and transferred to the museum in 1962, illustrates key figures and events, enriching the educational value. The regimental archive and library are available by appointment for deeper exploration.
Nearby Attractions:
- Located on The Mall, the museum is close to other Armagh landmarks, such as Saint Patrick’s Cathedral (both Catholic and Church of Ireland), Armagh Observatory and Planetarium, and the Armagh County Museum, making it an ideal stop on a cultural tour of the city. Nearby dining options include Embers Coffee House and Grill Bar and Toni’s Bar & Grill.
What’s new:
- An exhibition on uniforms and associated artifacts throughout the regiment’s history provides a fresh perspective on the Fusiliers’ material culture.
- Closure and Transition Plans: A significant development is the announcement of two new permanent museums, “Untold: The Museum,” set to open in Belfast and Enniskillen in 2027. These will consolidate collections from six existing regimental museums, including the Royal Irish Fusiliers Museum, along with the Inniskillings Museum, Royal Ulster Rifles Museum, Royal Irish Regiment Museum, and others. The new museums aim to provide a modern, objective interpretation of Ireland’s links to the English military, including regiments disbanded after Irish independence in 1921, and will connect with contemporary social and political histories.
- During 2025, the Royal Irish Fusiliers Museum will participate in community and education workshops to engage the public about this transition. These workshops will provide insights into the future of the museum’s collection and its integration into the new sites. Visitors may encounter events or displays related to this project, emphasizing sustainability and long-term conservation.
- While the museum in Armagh remains operational, the planned consolidation may influence its programming, with potential updates to exhibits or events to prepare for the transition. Visitors should check the museum’s website (royalirishfusiliersmuseum.com) for details on how this may affect the experience.
- Continued Research and Community Focus: The museum’s research facilities will remain a key feature, with ongoing efforts to support genealogical and historical inquiries. The legacy of volunteers like Joe Burrows, who contributed to publications on Armagh’s war dead, suggests that new research outputs or exhibits based on archival work may emerge.
Visitors to the Royal Irish Fusiliers Museum can expect a compact yet engaging experience, with free admission to a wealth of military artifacts, including the award-winning Eagle Takers Gallery and two Victoria Crosses. The museum’s focus on personal stories, supported by knowledgeable staff and research facilities, makes it ideal for what Tourism Ireland marketing department calls the “culturally curious”, genealogists, and those exploring Armagh’s heritage. The historic Sovereign’s House adds charm, though the lack of disabled access will be a limitation., visitors may encounter temporary exhibitions on World War II anniversaries or events related to the upcoming “Untold” museum project, which will consolidate collections by 2027. Checking the museum’s website (royalirishfusiliersmuseum.com) or contacting them at +44 (0) 283 752 2911 or researchfusiliersmuseum@yahoo.co.uk
