Archaeology of the Irish Revolution

About the project

The archaeology of Ireland's War of Independence and Civil War is one of the most engaging heritage resources in the country. It is also among the most understudied and at risk archaeological resources on the island. The potential of archaeological approaches to illuminate the events of the period and to speak powerfully of the texture of human emotion and experience has therefore not been fully realised.

Taking East Limerick as a study area, this project will reveal the research value and community-building potential of revolutionary-period heritage in several interlinked strands of research:

Mapping revolutionary heritage. In collaboration with local communities, revolutionary-era heritage will be identified, mapped and recorded to create interactive online maps and a database of sites. This will help us understand how revolutionary events unfolded and consider how best to safeguard this heritage for the future.

Small metal cross marking the location where Hugh O’Donnell, just 19 years old, was killed in the Civil War

Small metal cross marking the location where Hugh O’Donnell, just 19 years old, was killed in the Civil War

Oral histories of revolution. Interviews will be conducted to record oral histories of the conflict; to understand how communities engage with the material residues of difficult histories; and to consider how such residues offer the potential for social repair in the present.

Farm building beneath which a brick-lined arms dump was built in the War of Independence

Farm building beneath which a brick-lined arms dump was built in the War of Independence

The material culture of revolution. Collections in National Museum of Ireland and Limerick Museum as well as family memorabilia will be examined to explore how artefacts are incorporated into practices of meaning-making and remembrance today.

Exhibiting the revolution. Co-curation of two pop-up exhibitions with the local community and with refugee groups will explore the potential of artefacts to tell new and different stories; to explore contemporary resonances; and to enhance understanding of others’ experience, memories and histories.

Bullet holes resulting from National Army fire in the Civil War

Bullet holes resulting from National Army fire in the Civil War

Project team

(opens in a new window)Prof. Joanna Brück UCD School of Archaeology (Project PI)
Aidan Harte (Revolutionary Heritage Research Officer)
Niall Murray (Revolutionary Heritage Research Officer)