Two hundred and six years and eight days after his execution in at Downpatrick Gaol (now the Down County Museum), 'The Man from God knows Where' was honoured by the erection of a blue plaque at the Linen Hall Library (formerly the 'Belfast Society for Promoting Knowledge'),of which he was the first paid Librarian.

Doreen Corcoran, Ulster History Circle said the Circle was 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. She thanked the Library for permitting it to be erected and Belfast City Council and the Heritage Lottery Fund for their support.

John Killen, Acting Librarian, Linen Hall Library, who unveiled the plaque said that Thomas Russell was probably the most romantic figure associated with the Linen Hall Library. His life, social, political and literary interests and his fate had captured the imagination of generations of Irishmen and Irishwomen.

Jane Williams, member of the Heritage Lottery Fund Committee for Northern Ireland said that the Fund was delighted to be involved in commemorating people like Thomas Russell who had made a significant contribution to the development of our society. By creating a link between these buildings and places of interest and the people who once lived or worked there, the plaques enabled us all to learn more about our heritage.

Some photos of the event are shown below.