County Kilkenny: Stephens Barracks

Kilkenny Barracks was built between 1800 and 1803. Like many barracks built at this time, it was in response to the Irish rebellion of 1798. At 3pm on 7th February 1922, an IRA detachment under the command of their Brigade Commander, George O’Dwyer, assembled in St James’ Park, Kilkenny. Led by St Patrick’s Brass Band playing rousing airs, they marched through the streets met by cheering crowds. Arriving at the barracks, they occupied it on behalf of the Provisional Government. The barracks was evacuated by troops of the Royal Field Artillery.

In 1967, it was renamed in honour of James Stephens, the Irish revolutionary and founding member of the Irish Republican Brotherhood. In 1971, ‘A’ Company, 3rd Infantry Battalion, arrived from the Curragh to Stephens Barracks. They subsequently formed the 30th Infantry Battalion in 1977, and in 1987 were reorganised again as part of the 3rd Infantry Battalion. The modern Kilkenny Barracks remains the home of the entire Battalion, nicknamed ‘The Bloods.’