Clare Presbyterian Church, Clare, Co. Armagh

The roll of honour in Clare Presbyterian Church, Clare, Co. Armagh lists the name of Corporal William Alexander Thompson who died in a Japanese POW camp.

Clare Presbyterian Church

Clare Road

Clare

Co. Armagh

BT62 2EY

United Kingdom

Dating back to around 1633, the congreagation of Clare Presbyterian Church, Clare, Co. Armagh is one of the oldest on the island of Ireland. By the 1700s, the congregation numbered 300-400 families.

People came to Clare from surrounding townlands such as Poyntspass, Marlacoo, Cornascriebe and Ballynewry. The rise of other rural Presbyterian congregations lead to fewer people travelling to Clare. The current church building dates back to 1828 and is the 4th building to stand on the site. The original church building fell victim to fire during the rebellion of 1641.

During World War Two, the church had two ministers. Reverend James Malcolm served from 1938-1941. Reverend Francis J McMorran followed from 1941-1945. Several members of the church served in the forces during the conflict.

The roll of honour in the church lists the name of one airman who died during the Second World War.

In loving memory of Cpl. William Alexander Thompson Royal Air Force. Died POW in a Japanese Prison Camp 12th July 1943 aged 27 years. Buried in Ambon War Cemetery Indonesia. Erected by Gerald and Mildred Thompson and family.