Eileen Hickey Irish Republican History Museum

About the museum

The museum is a memorial to Eileen Hickey, set up by her family so that the history of the Irish republican struggle can be kept and taught through objects. It opened in 2007 and is in a former social club inside the Conway Mill complex, a converted linen mill just off the Falls Road in west Belfast.

A large part of the collection is made up of items handmade by republican prisoners, including pieces carved or crafted in Long Kesh and gifts and memorabilia made for birthdays and Christmas. A hand-carved harp from the 1970s is one example. Objects have also come from prisons elsewhere, from Armagh Women's Prison to the United States, together with weapons used during the Troubles and a replica prison cell.

The museum is independent and run by volunteers, depends on donations, and still accepts new artefacts. It also keeps a library and reading room on Irish history.

Highlights

• Handmade artefacts crafted by prisoners in Long Kesh and other prisons
• Hand-carved wooden harp from the 1970s
• Replica prison cell
• Weapons and objects from the Troubles
• Library and reading room on Irish history

Permanent exhibition

• Prisoner artefacts and republican history – Handcrafted objects made by republican prisoners, together with weapons, memorabilia and a replica prison cell that illustrate the Irish struggle.

Founded

2007

Admission & discounts

Admission is free.

Entry is reported to be free; the museum is independent and relies on public donations.

Accessibility

The museum hasn’t published any information on this.

Kids & families

The museum hasn’t published any information on this.

Getting there & parking

The museum is in the Conway Mill complex.

Amenities & dining

• Museum shop

A small selection of items can be bought from the museum as souvenirs. A library, reading room and computer room are part of the museum, according to local press.

Events & venue rental

The museum hasn’t published any information on this.

Plan your visit