Boyne account to go under hammer
A HANDWRITTEN account recording intimate details of the Battle of the Boyne is due to go under the hammer at a London auction next month.
The original writings, penned by Jacobite soldier Captain John Stevens, reveal the extent of the disorder within the ranks of King James' army, ultimately defeated by forces led by King William of Orange in 1690.
Among the revelations, Capt Stevens claims that thousands of troops on the Jacobite side were heavily drunk during battle, with a fatal mix-up over drink rations leading to many soldiers passing out before a single shot was fired.
The journal relating to the Boyne campaign is among a volume of manuscripts by the author, relating to the latter part of the 17th century, and is expected to fetch in the region of 10,000-15,000.
Asked whether the Orange Order would show any interest in the literature, a spokesman said: "The Orange Order will examine every opportunity to increase our Williamite archive but obviously it will depend on a number of factors, including authenticity and cost."
The Loyal Order already retains numerous artefacts in relation to the Battle of the Boyne and has indicated its desire to showcase its collection in an extended museum at the organisation's Schomberg House headquarters in east Belfast.
Original items held by the Order include gloves worn by King William at the Boyne and his horse's saddlecloth.
Last year, the Grand Lodge of Ireland became the custodian of another major part of Williamite history.
The Paymaster General's Book was presented by Belfast City Council to the Order on permanent loan. Thomas Coningsby was alongside King William for much of the Williamite Wars.
A spokesman for the auctioneer, Bonhams, admitted he expected interest to emanate from across the Irish Sea to Stevens' work.
"I think it's reasonable to assume there will be interest in this from Northern Ireland (given the significance to the Orange Order) but equally there may well be interest from museums and other public institutions both in Great Britain and Northern Ireland," he said.
Capt Stevens' personal account is due to go on sale on June 8.
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Thursday 09 February 2012
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