The Irish Potato Famine was the most catastrophic event in Ireland's turbulent history. It is also regarded as being one of the worst Famines in history (deaths as a proportion to population). The use of the word 'Famine' in this context is controversial, for Ireland at the time was part of the richest Empire in the World (the British Empire). There was sufficient food in the country throughout the 'Famine' years, yet over a million people died from starvation and disease, and millions more were forced to flee.
Some historians prefer to use the name 'Great Hunger' to describe this event.
Our exhibition is a temporary mobile museum / exhibition. We open on April 1st 2024 and will run until September 30th, Mon-Sun (12pm to 6pm).
This Exhibition tells the story of what happened during those horrific years. We use rare 19th century photographs, witness accounts, contemporary sketches as well as maps and statistical information. Also on display are three American Newspapers containing articles on the state of Ireland at this time. A 15 minute film with seating is included in the Exhibition and the average time spent by visitors is 1 and 1/4 hours.
Famine Museum Artefacts
As news of the first potato crop failure broke in 1845, Newspapers from around the world were soon reporting on it. Ireland's dependence on the potato was unique - as many as 3 million people relied upon it one way or another for their survival.
We include 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.
We also include a pitiful 1850 letter written by a tenant farmer from Carrick-on-Shannon prison to his Landlord, and an 1876 letter from a Father to his Son.
Irish Famine Book
We have recently published a new book based on the content of our exhibition storyboards. This will make a great gift for someone who cannot visit the exhibition. For those interested in the story of the Irish Potato Famine / Great Hunger, it will also act as a great reference book.
You can purchase this book from the Reception desk at our exhibition. If you wish to have the book posted to you, please email us to organise payment and postage.
While stocks last, we will include a FREE DVD with each book purchase
Testimonials
"So Poignant. My mom really wanted to see this so I went along and I'm so glad I did. I knew a bit about the potato famine but very few details. While the exhibit isn't flashy or very eye catching when you walk in, the history and information on display is incredible. I went on quite a few tours while in Dublin but didn't learn as much anywhere else. The story is shocking and sad but is something that should definitely be told. It took about an hour to read everything and watch the brief video, and the man working at the desk was more than happy to talk to us more and give us even more information. I would recommend this to anyone". Lisa R
"A moving and well-balanced account of the famine. A logical, thorough and well-organised education on the Irish potato famine. The short film was poignant, evocative and brought the history to life. A real tragedy that this exhibition is not permanent as it is such a devastating and important part of Irish history".Wales101
"Heart touching! A nice exposition about the dramatic event that took place in the 19th century that moved me and sensitized me." Regis T
