The Backstreet Boys
The Great War Sacrifice of Enniskillen’s Dardanelles
This exhibition captures the great sacrifice of a small area in Enniskillen during the First World War.
The Back Streets consisted of seven streets situated at the back of the town, home to a mixed community of Roman Catholics and Protestants. When the First World War broke out in 1914, the Home Rule Crisis (1912-1914) was at its height. Many young men joined the army, some hoping to obtain Irish self-governance, others in opposition to it. Some sought adventure and comradeship, others enlisted to gain a much-needed income during difficult times.
Tragically, over 70 Back Streets men never returned home or later succumbed to wounds and illness. They are remembered here in this exhibition, as are the Back Streets of Enniskillen, since demolished in 1970. The exhibition is timed to commemorate the 110th anniversary of the Gallipoli campaign in memory of the battle for control of the Turkish Dardanelles, where many of these men fought and lost their lives. The devastation on the local community was so profound that the Back Streets became known locally as “The Dardanelles”.
Presented by Fermanagh County Museum, the exhibition has been produced in partnership with Fermanagh Genealogy Centre and the Inniskillings Museum.
Image Acknowledgements:
The Back Streets. © The Impartial Reporter.
3632 Private John ‘Jack’ Spillane & his children, Head Street, Enniskillen.
Exhibition continues until 07 September 2025.
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