New exhibition explores Leeds and north Mayo diaspora connection

A new exhibition examining the relationship forged between Leeds and north Mayo and its diaspora connection throughout the years has opened in Ballina.

Hosted by the Jackie Clarke Collection, 'The Nearest Place That Wasn’t Home - Leeds and North Mayo: A Diaspora Connection' was officially opened on Mayo Day.

This special exhibition of displays, short films and photographs celebrates the bond between Leeds and north Mayo, rooted in generation of migration, resilience and cultural continuity.

It is on show until May 12 in the walled heritage garden 'Seomra' at the Jackie Clarke Collection as part of the Mayo Fleadh.

Guests over the weekend included Minister Dara Calleary and the cathaoirleach of Mayo County Council, Councillor John O'Hara.

From the late 19th century through to the post-war years, north Mayo - like much of rural Ireland - witnessed waves of emigration. Leeds, an industrial hub in West Yorkshire, became a prominent destination.

Drawn by work opportunities in construction, textiles, nursing and public services, many young men and women from towns and villages like Ballina, Bonniconlon, Attymass, Crossmolina and Killala settled there, carving out new lives while maintaining strong ties to home.

This connection blossomed especially during the 1950s and '60s, when emigration from Mayo surged.

In Leeds, the Irish community flourished. Churches, GAA clubs and social halls became vital meeting points, where accents from Mayo mingled with music, stories and the rituals of home. Families grew, yet the pull of Mayo remained powerful - return trips in summer and Christmas if you were lucky, a good bulk of the weekly wages sent back home to the family, and the passing on of heritage to the next generation were common to so many people who experienced that Leeds/ Mayo connection.