World War I Memorial

Funding was approved in 2018 as part of the Louth PEACE IV Action Plan following a successful submission by the Dundalk World War 1 Memorial Committee. It was funded under the Shared Spaces theme of the PEACE IV Programme as a permanent commemoration of those from Dundalk and North Louth who lost their lives in First World War (1914 – 1918).

The World War I Memorial was launched in October 2022. Speakers at the event included Chief Executive Joan Martin, Cathaoirleach Councillor Conor Keelan and historian Dr. Donal Hall. 

The poem A Soldier's Grave by poet Francis Ledwidge features as the central text on the memorial. Born in Slane, Co Meath in 1887, Ledwidge enlisted and served in France and Flanders during World War One.  He was killed in action at Ypres in 1917.

As a part of the funding an activity programme of history lectures took place in the sports hall at Dundalk grammer school in May 2022. Students from Dundalk Grammer School, O Fiaich College, St Marys College and Colaiste Chu Cullainn were in attendance. The lectures were given by Dr. Donal Hall local historian and Mr. Myles Dungan RTE Radio presenter of "History Today".

It is envisaged that the World War I memorial will act as a cross community and cross-border shared space, permanently commemorating the link between Dundalk and Armagh City which was the historic home of the Fusiliers.