Michael Davitt Museum in Mayo awarded community heritage grant

The Michael Davitt Museum in Straide has been awarded a community heritage grant of €6,447 by The Heritage Council.

This funding will support a critical paper and textile conservation survey, forming the cornerstone of a long-term strategy to protect and preserve the museum’s invaluable collection.

The Michael Davitt Museum, home to the important collection of artefacts relating to Michael Davitt in Ireland, is a cultural gem located in Davitt’s birthplace of Straide.

With many items in the collection gifted by Davitt’s descendants and dating back over a century, this conservation project will ensure these delicate and historically significant artefacts—composed largely of organic materials like paper and textiles—are assessed by professionals and preserved for generations to come.

The Michael Davitt Museum currently holds the Museum Standards Programme for Ireland accreditation - awarded by The Heritage Council.

This conservation survey will identify any environmental threats to the collection, such as pests and climate-related damage, and it will examine handling practices and guide interventions to mitigate these impacts.

It will bring the museum in line with national and international conservation standards, improve the overall visitor experience and help guide a sustainable, long-term conservation management plan.

This survey will take place over the summer months and updates will be posted on the Michael Davitt Museum social media channels.

“This project marks a significant step in ensuring the continued care of the collection that tells the powerful story of Michael Davitt and the foundation of the Land League,” said Deirdre McGuirk, Curator at the Michael Davitt Museum.

“With the 150th anniversary of the establishment of the Land League approaching in 2029, it is more important than ever that we protect this legacy for future generations.”

As a community-driven initiative, the museum owes much of its existence and development to local support.

Over 50 years ago, the community of Straide erected a memorial to Davitt, and later championed the establishment of the museum.

Today, this project continues that proud tradition, empowering the community to safeguard its heritage.

The museum has also received continued support for its staff from the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, and Mayo North East. Without timely intervention, these artefacts risk irreparable deterioration.

Thanks to The Heritage Council, the Michael Davitt Museum is taking essential steps to future-proof the collection, preserving a story that resonates locally, nationally and internationally.