Plaque honour for United Irishman

Thomas Russell studies the first issue of the Northern Star newspaper

A blue plaque dedicated to a leading member of the United Irishmen has been erected in Belfast.

Thomas Russell was a co-founder along with Wolfe Tone of the movement, which sought to create an independent Ireland free from English rule in the 1790s.

Russell was a librarian at the Society for the Promotion of Knowledge, later to become the Linen Hall Library, where the plaque has been erected.

He was executed at Downpatrick Gaol in 1803 for high treason.

Speaking ahead of the unveiling, John Killen of Linen Hall Library said: "Thomas Russell is probably the most romantic figure associated with the Linen Hall Library.

"His life, social, political and literary interests and his fate have captured the imagination of generations of Irishmen and Irishwomen."

The plaques are erected by the Ulster History Circle, and chairman Wesley McCann said they "serve to remind us of our heritage and the men and women who helped shape it".

"The Ulster History Circle is pleased to erect this plaque on one of Belfast's most important buildings to honour one of the most significant figures in the city's long history," he added.