The Irish Famine Exhibition relays the story of the Irish potato famine which took place from 1845 to 1852. The showcase runs until 30 September, 2022 between the hours 12pm to 6pm (last entry 5:15pm). Allow at least an hour to an hour and a quarter for your visit. Museum artefacts are included in the display.
Ireland’s dependence on the potato was quite unique at the time, as around 3 million people relied on it for survival. As such, the famine is regarded as one of the most catastrophic events in Iocal history.
This exhibition offers insight into those horrific years using rare 19th century photographs, witness accounts, contemporary sketches as well as maps and statistical information. A 15-minute film with seating is included in the exhibition.
Artefacts that can be viewed include a pitiful letter written by a tenant farmer from Carrick-on-Shannon prison to his landlord. As news of the first potato crop failure broke in 1845, Newspapers from around the world were soon reporting on it and the exhibition features original articles from a British newspaper called The Globe, which ran from 1803 to 1921, and the Worcester Palladium from Worcester Massachusetts which ran from 1840 to 1876.
Patrons receive a free DVD with each admission ticket. It contains a documentary which tells the story of the 1916 War of Independence and Civil War. The film features original black and white footage of key personalities such as Padraig Pearse, Constance Markievicz, Michael Collins and Eamon DeValera.
Location: 2nd Floor, Stephens Green Shopping Centre, Dublin.
Admission fees apply.
For more information, e-mail irishfaminedvd@gmail.com or phone 089 227 5735.