A Brief History of 2nd Coleraine

 

Our 2nd Coleraine Company is one of the major Youth Organisations within the Coleraine Area and a prominent member in the Coleraine & District Battalion of the BB, as well as the N.I. Region. The Company was established in 1904 and drew its membership of boys from the three Presbyterian Churches in the town, namely First Coleraine, New Row and Terrace Row.

 

One of the stalwarts over the years has been Mr Johnny Leonard who was Captain of the Company from the mid-1920’s to 1950. He had an excellent rapport with the boys of his era and was held in the highest esteem.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

In 1983, when membership had reached over 150 boys and officers, Terrace Row broke away to form their own Company (5th Coleraine) and presently it has developed into a strong Company within our Battalion.

 

Over the years 2nd Coleraine has been heavily involved in all B.B. activities and has taken part in Parades, Camps, Drill and Christian Faith Competitions, Sporting Tournaments and it can be proud of its many notable successes.

 

Our Company has had a number of “Claims to Fame” in its history. During the 1980’s our President Dr George Humphreys held the position of N.I.D. President and in 1996 Company Captain The Very Rev. Dr Harry Allen was Moderator of the General Assembly PCI. Up until 1999 we were privileged to have an Old Boys’ Silver Band that played an active role in the Company for 75 years. Unfortunately due to a fall in membership it was forced to fold.

 

Currently the Company has a strength in excess of 80 boys and officers and runs three Sections. The Company offers all forms of badge-work including the Achievement Scheme, President Badge, Queens Badge and whenever possible Duke of Edinburgh Award.

 

During the 2003-04 session we celebrated the centenary of our company.  Several special events were organised to mark this occasion including a thanksgiving service and centenary dinner.