Broughshane lies in the heart of Co. Antrim about 3.5 miles north of Ballymena, Co. Antrim. In 2011, the village's population was 2,851. Known as the 'Garden Village of Ulster', Broughshane's motto is "People, Plants, and Pride growing Together".
During the Second World War, British troops had bases on the outskirts of the village. After 1942, American forces such as 218th Replacement Company (67th Replacement Battalion) briefly established bases in the area.
In 1944, the evacuation of Gibraltar led to the relocation of much of The Rock’s population. Hundreds of evacuees came to call the area around Broughshane and Ballymena home. Some even remained after the war’s end. Camps for evacuees stood in the areas of Aughacully, Breckagh Bridge, Drummuck, and Dunaird.
Family archive photo: Alfred Dalmedo, an evacuee from Gibraltar is a member of a musical group performing at Camp 11, Breckagh Bridge, Broughshane, Co. Antrim. Photo supplied by John Dalmedo, son of Alfred and Sarah (née Crilly).
American Forces
The following American forces were based in the Co. Antrim village between 1943 and 1944. If you have more information on exact bases, please get in touch.
| Start Date | End Date | Units |
|---|---|---|
| 15th March 1944 | 22nd April 1944 | 218th Replacement Company (67th Replacement Battalion) |
Places of Interest
The following places will be of interest to anyone wishing to explore more of the area's Second World War heritage.