The Grim Reaper

This piece of silver known simply as ‘The Grim Reaper’ was commissioned by the former officers of the 3rd (Co Down) Battalion The Ulster Defence Regiment (3 UDR), in January 1993. It commemorates the passing of the battalion into history on the merger of The Ulster Defence Regiment with The Royal Irish Rangers in June 1992 to form The Royal Irish Regiment.

The piece was created by the renowned silversmith, Graham Harron of Hillsborough and the image was inspired by a 16th century painter, Hans Holbein, with alterations intended to give it a special military significance. Holbein's original series of woodcuts were inspired by 'death ad the ever present companion of life'. The Grim Reaper’s scythe has three blades to signify the 3rd Battalion, while in his left hand, he carries the cap badge of The Ulster Defence Regiment. The panels on the sides of the plinth name the officers who were still serving in the Battalion at the time of the merger and were responsible for commissioning the piece. The narrative of the sculpture is that of the Grim Reaper carrying off the 3rd Battalion The Ulster Defence Regiment into eternity.
‘The Grim Reaper’ is the property of the Roselawn Club, a dining club comprised of officers who served with the 3rd Battalion. The Club was formed following the funeral of a former member of 3 UDR at Roselawn cemetery. In coming together to remember his life, former officers realised how much they missed the camaraderie and lifelong friendships that had been formed whilst serving. Often it was only at funerals that everyone had a reason to once again meet up and share memories. In this moment, a dining club was established, which hosts several dinners each year to which former members are invited. As the funeral had been at the Roselawn Cemetery it was agreed that the cub would be known as The Roselawn Club, a reflection of soldiers’ dark humour.

The Grim Reaper forms the centerpiece each time the former officers dine. In time (inevitably), the Roselawn Club will cease to exist and, in this event, it is the will of the members of the club that this unique piece will pass into the ownership of UNTOLD: The Collections & Archives Ltd. It will be showcased in UNTOLD Stories of the Irish in the British Army.