Victoria Barracks, Belfast facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Victoria Barracks |
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| Belfast, Northern Ireland | |
Victoria Barracks, Belfast
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 Victoria Barracks
Location within Northern Ireland
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| Coordinates | 54°36′36″N 5°55′55″W / 54.610°N 5.932°W |
| Type | Barracks |
| Site information | |
| Owner | Ministry of Defence |
| Operator |  British Army |
| Site history | |
| Built | 1798 |
| Built for | War Office |
| In use | 1798-early 1960s |
| Garrison information | |
| Garrison | Royal Irish Rifles |
Victoria Barracks was a military base located in the New Lodge, Belfast area of Northern Ireland. It was an important place for soldiers for many years.
Contents
History of Victoria Barracks
Building the Barracks
The Victoria Barracks were finished in 1798, just before a big uprising called the Irish Rebellion. This made them ready for use right when they were needed.
Becoming a Regimental Home
In 1873, new rules were made for the British Army. These rules, known as the Cardwell Reforms, helped organize where soldiers were recruited. Victoria Barracks became a "depot" for two army groups: the 83rd (County of Dublin) Regiment of Foot and the 86th (Royal County Down) Regiment of Foot. A depot is like a main home base where new soldiers train and supplies are kept.
Later, in 1881, more changes happened under the Childers Reforms. The 83rd and 86th regiments joined together to form a new group called the Royal Irish Rifles. Victoria Barracks became their main depot. To make space for all the extra soldiers, a large new part of the barracks was built between 1880 and 1881.
Moving On and Demolition
The Royal Ulster Rifles moved to a different base, St Patrick's Barracks, in 1937.
During the Second World War, the barracks were badly damaged. German planes, part of their air force called the Luftwaffe, bombed the area. After the war, in the 1950s, the barracks were in very bad shape. They were finally torn down in the early 1960s.
Today, some parts of the old barracks are still used. Some of the houses where officers used to live are now private homes. The building where sergeants used to gather is now a social center called "the Recy." Most of the land where the barracks once stood is now covered by apartment buildings known as the “Artillery Flats.”
