BEHIND CLOSED DOORS…

MUSEUM STATUS

Despite the restrictions due to Covid-19, the management at the Thomas MacDonagh Museum has been busy behind the scenes. In spite of closures and limited opening hours we have just completed and submitted our application to the Heritage Council for full accreditation in the Museum Standards Programme of Ireland. The awarding of the highest standard nationally will be a major achievement for a volunteer-managed museum, and will put us in company with the likes of the Tipperary County Museum, the Hunt Museum, the Chester Beatty Library and the National Gallery of Ireland!

This is the culmination of five year’s work by a dedicated voluntary Board of Management. We hope that what we have learned in the process is reflected in our wonderful and unique collection, and that you will enjoy visiting us in the Thomas MacDonagh Museum when the lifting of restrictions makes it possible.

RETIREMENT

Last week, Community Employment Scheme staff member Shay Hannon retired after six years with the museum. He has assisted in the day-to-day running of the museum and will be known to many as an enthusiastic guide in sharing the story of the MacDonagh family. Shay has been a willing support, generous with his time and skills in progressing the development of this cultural centre. He brought music to many events, as a solo player and taking part in sessions. He will be missed, but we wish him well in all his future plans.

NEW ACTIVITIES

Tipperary Creative Ireland has awarded the museum a grant of €1,000 towards developing the theme of the Gaelic Revival. This has enabled us to create activities based on the Celtic Revival in the early 1900s in art and design, drama and the Irish language.  There will be an opportunity to engage in writing in the Gaelic alphabet of the time, creating Celtic motifs and enjoying creative drama and language sessions. We look forward to welcoming visitors of all ages on reopening.

GIFTS

The exhibition of photographs by Andy Whelan continues on display in the window of the Cloughjordan Library. All the framed photos are for sale and can be ordered through the museum, phone no. 087 3946862. Shopping local is recommended at this time. Other items that be purchased include CDs, produced by Martin Butler, (poetry of MacDonagh and the Irish War Poets) and books in the Cloughjordan Heritage Series. All enquiries and orders can be organised through the phone or email – Cloughjordanheritage@gmail.com

COVID 19

The Thomas MacDonagh Museum is in full compliance with protocols for the protection of our staff, volunteers and visitors.

Further information: May Casey, 087 3946862