Blue Plaque unveiling at Ebrington for renowned soldier and poet Francis Ledwidge

By Q Radio News

Renowned soldier and poet, Francis Ledwidge (I887-I9I7), was honoured with a Blue Plaque at Building No.46 in Ebrington Square on Friday.

Ledwidge, often referred to as the 'Poet of the Blackbird' was stationed at Ebrington Barracks in the city in 1916 during his time served with the Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers and is thought to have wrote many of his most famous pieces of poetry there, alongside his patron and mentor, Lord Dunsany.

The Ulster History Circle and Derry City and Strabane District Council are working in partnership on a blue plaque programme to ensure the history and heritage of the city and district, including figures such as Francis Ledwidge are recognised for their positive contribution area.

^{Catherine Diggett and Eileen Ledwidge-Wilson, great nieces of Francis Ledwidge at Ebrington Square. (Photo - Tom Heaney, nwpresspics)}
The Ulster History Circle and Derry City and Strabane District Council will launch a further five Blue Plaques throughout the city and district over the next five years dedicated to: Annie Russell Maunder (1868 - 1947), an Irish astronomer and mathematician; Mrs E.H. O'Doherty, founder of the Féis Dhoíre Cholmcílle; Brigadier General Ambrose Ricardo (1866 - 1923) and Dorothy Parke (1904 - 1990), a teacher and composer.