In 1943, the American Red Cross expanded the number of their Service Clubs across Ulster. This was in response to the larger numbers of American military personnel in Northern Ireland. One such club opened at McKenna's Hall, Armagh, Co. Armagh.
The American Red Cross Service Clubs in Northern Ireland provided somewhere for members of the United States Military to spend their free time. There were many such clubs in provincial towns as well as larger ones in Belfast and Derry. The clubs provided leisure activities and recreational facilities for service personnel on leave.
As well as the social side, the American Red Cross Service Clubs provided facilities for sending telegrams home to the United States of America. They also offered troops with local information such as tourist attractions and railway timetables. Some larger clubs also offered food and accommodation facilities.
On 4th January 1944, an advertisement appeared in the Northern Whig newspaper. The busy American Red Cross Service Club at McKenna’s Hall in Armagh, Co. Armagh required a new staff member. The role was for a Secretary to the Director with a salary of £4 per week. Interviews took place that day in the Grand Central Hotel, Belfast.
If you know the exact location of McKenna’s Hall, Armagh, Co. Armagh, please contact us with any additional information.