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Jackie Clarke Collection

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Jackie Clarke Collection

1 collector 100,000 items: spanning 400 years of Irish History. www.clarkecollection.ie

The Collection:
It is the most important private collection of Irish history material in public hands, comprising over 100,000 items spanning 400 years. It includes artefacts associated with Theobald Wolfe Tone; letters from Michael Collins, Douglas Hyde, Michael Davitt and O’Donovan Rossa. It also contains rare books, proclamations, posters, political cartoons, pamphlets, handbills, works by Sir John Lavery, maps, hunger strike material and personal items from Leaders of the 1916 Rising.

01/06/2026

Today as MuseumWeek unfolds across the globe, we join thousands of cultural institutions in celebrating the vital role museums play in shaping how societies understand themselves. Supported by UNESCO since 2016, this annual initiative, 7 days, 7 themes, 7 hashtags, invites us to pause, reflect and recognise the extraordinary power of cultural memory.

In a world defined by rapid technological change and global uncertainty, museums stand as rare anchors. They are places where knowledge is not only preserved but interpreted; where narratives are constructed with care; where communities can return again and again to find meaning, continuity and perspective.

At the Jackie Clarke Museum, this mission feels especially resonant. Within these walls lies one of the most remarkable private archives of Irish history, a collection that captures the courage, contradictions and creativity of a nation finding its voice. From the 1916 Proclamation to personal letters, political posters, rare maps and the everyday ephemera that reveal how people lived, hoped and imagined their future, the Collection offers a uniquely human lens on Ireland’s past.

As MuseumWeek marks a decade of UNESCO support in 2026, it invites us to reflect on why museums matter now more than ever. Here in Ballina, the Jackie Clarke Museum continues to serve as a civic space where visitors of all ages can explore the complexities of Irish identity, encounter primary sources first hand and engage with the stories that shaped our shared journey.

This week, we celebrate not only the treasures in our care, but the people who bring them to life, the researchers, educators, volunteers, students, families and curious minds who make Jackie’s Collection a living, breathing part of community life. Museums remind us where we have come from and they help us imagine where we might go next.

Why not make this the week you celebrate the joy of museums, whether you step into your very first one, explore somewhere completely new, or return to an old favourite that now feels like home. Let’s show our museums the appreciation they deserve. Happy International Museum Week from all of us at the Jackie Clarke Collection!

Mayo County Council Mayo North Tourism, Ireland Mayo.ie Mayo County Library The Heritage Council Fáilte Ireland The Irish Abroad Discover Ireland Tourisme Irlandais Tourism Ireland Wild Atlantic Way Wild About Ireland Tours really great tours Ireland on a Budget

30/05/2026

On this day in 1906, visionary leader and tireless advocate for social justice in Ireland, Michael Davitt died.

Michael Davitt was born in Straide, County Mayo. Born during An Gorta Mór (The Great Hunger) the second of five children to an impoverished family of tenant farmers, Michael suffered great hardship in his early life. After being evicted from their home the Davitt family sought refuge at the Swinford Workhouse. However the family decided to leave the workhouse the same day when they realised its policy was to separate children over three from their parents and Catherine Davitt refused to be parted from her son, Michael. They returned to Straide, where the local priest provided temporary shelter for a few nights. Shortly afterward, they were fortunate to receive a lift to Dublin from another family travelling by horse-drawn cart to catch a boat to Liverpool.

Michael and his family went on to settle in the town of Haslingden in Lancashire. When he was just nine years of age Michael went to work in a textile mill persuading the owners he was actually thirteen in order to secure the job. In May 1857 Michael was involved in an accident with one of the machines causing his right arm to become trapped in the machinery and resulting in its amputation. Michael was later “taken under the wing” of John Dean, a cotton manufacturer who became his benefactor. Under Dean’s patronage, Davitt was sent to Wesleyan School which he attended for four years.

In 1861 whilst working in a printing and stationary business Davitt began to study Irish history and became interested in politics. Later he joined the Fenians, a group who were dedicated in securing Ireland’s independence from Britain. In May of 1870 Davitt was arrested in London and charged with treason felony for smuggling arms to Ireland, he was sentenced to fifteen years penal servitude. Davitt was paroled on 19 December 1877, having served seven and a half years, following pressure from the Home Rule League for an amnesty for all Irish political prisoners.

Upon his return to Ireland Davitt became involved in the land reform movement, later joining forces with James Daly and Charles Stewart Parnell to form the Irish National Land League. This organisation’s key objective was to achieve the 3F’s Fixity of Tenure, Free Sale and Fair Rents. The Land League used many tactics to achieve its aims, including rent strikes and boycotts. The Irish National Land League had a profound impact on Irish society. It was one of the most important mass movements in Irish history sparking a wave of activism and resistance against landlord oppression. The organisation successfully pressured landlords to reduce rents, improve tenant conditions, and grant more favourable land terms to Irish farmers.

Davitt went onto become an MP, a Social Justice Campaigner, a GAA Patron and activist on the International stage. Davitt's efforts to improve the lives of the marginalized did not stop at the borders of Ireland. He travelled to England and the United States to raise awareness about the plight of workers and advocate for social and economic reforms. Davitt's passionate speeches and writings resonated with audiences around the world, garnering support for the causes he championed.

Sadly Michael Davitt died on 30th May 1906 of sepsis following a tooth extraction. From his humble beginnings in rural Ireland to his international prominence as a social reformer, Michael Davitt's life serves as a testament to the power of one individual to effect positive change in the world. His vision of a more just and equitable society continues to inspire and guide those who strive to make a difference in the lives of others and he quite rightly remains one of Irelands most beloved and admired sons.

Pictured are two rare items from Jackie's collection relating to Michael Davitt, a print from 1887 featuring a portrait of Michael Davitt and an original Land League poster.

Mayo County Council Mayo County Library Mayo North Tourism, Ireland Mayo.ie The Heritage Council Fáilte Ireland Michael Davitt Museum County Mayo History & Heritage North Mayo West Sligo Heritage Group The Irish Abroad Tourism Ireland Discover Ireland Wild Atlantic Way Wild About Ireland Tours Wild Atlantic Cultural Tours really great tours Ireland on a Budget

29/05/2026

What a fantastic Friday here at the Jackie Clarke Museum as the 6th class students from Scoil Íosa arrived with their teacher Ms. Rowan for a brilliant Historical Walking Tour of Ballina.

Greeted by our Education Co-ordinator Mike and the JCC team, the class set off in the fabulous sunshine to explore the town’s rich tapestry of stories, landmarks, roads and laneways named in honour of some of Ireland’s most influential figures. From memorials honouring local heroes to streets that echo the footsteps of national icons, every stop offered a new spark of curiosity and pride.

The students brought great energy as they connected the dots between Ballina’s past and the wider story of Ireland’s culture, identity and struggle for freedom. It was a joy to see them engaging so thoughtfully with the town’s heritage. A wonderful visit, glorious weather and a brilliant group, what a great way to round off another busy week here at the Jackie Clarke Education Programme. Here’s to more days like this!

Mayo County Council Mayo North Tourism, Ireland Mayo.ie Fáilte Ireland The Heritage Council County Mayo History & Heritage North Mayo West Sligo Heritage Group The Irish Remembered The Irish Abroad Tourism Ireland Wild Atlantic Way Wild About Ireland Tours really great tours Ireland on a Budget Discover Ireland

28/05/2026

🇺🇸🍀 Washington State University Students Explore Ireland’s Story at the Jackie Clarke Collection 🍀🇺🇸

Today we were delighted to welcome students from Washington State University, visiting Ballina as part of their study abroad programme, Poetry Ireland / Éigse Éireann, led by poet and professor Cameron Read McGill, (The Widow Cameron) and his colleague lecturer Colin.

In the bright Mayo sunshine, the group stepped into one of Ireland’s most extraordinary archives of national memory. JCC Manager Yvonne Corcoran Loftus guided them through the museum’s remarkable collection, a treasure trove of rare documents, artefacts and personal stories that chart Ireland’s long journey toward identity, independence and cultural expression.

From the 1916 Proclamation to handwritten letters, political posters and the voices of revolutionaries, the students experienced first hand the kind of primary sources that echo the themes they explore in their poetry studies.

The visit continued into the Walled Heritage Garden, where Yvonne shared stories of the plants, symbols and quiet corners that reflect Ireland’s relationship with land, memory and resilience. It was a moment of calm reflection, a perfect setting for students immersed in the craft of writing and the study of place.

There was a lovely sense of connection throughout the visit. Washington State’s wide horizons meeting Ireland’s Atlantic edge.
American students discovering how poetry and history intertwine on this side of the ocean. Shared traditions of storytelling, activism and cultural pride

We were honoured to host such an engaged, thoughtful group and to play a small part in their Irish learning journey.

Go n-éirí an bóthar libh — may the road rise to meet you, as you continue your travels and your writing across Ireland.

Mayo County Council Mayo North Tourism, Ireland The Heritage Council Fáilte Ireland Discover Ireland The Irish Post The Irish Abroad Washington Post Americanimmigrantstories

28/05/2026

**Found in the Jackie Clarke Collection**

Have you lost this bank/credit card? It was found here at the Jackie Clarke Collection where we are holding it for safekeeping. If it is your property please come along to collect it from our staff at reception. (For security purposes we will require the owner to provide proof of id/ownership at the time of collection)

Mayo.ie Mayo North Tourism, Ireland

28/05/2026

From Oulart Hill to Enniscorthy — When a Rising Found Its Momentum

On 27 May 1798, a quiet Wexford hillside became the spark that lit a county. At Oulart Hill, hundreds of ordinary men and women, farmers, labourers and neighbours stood together against a well-armed Crown force. They had few weapons, little training, and every reason to fear the worst. But they carried something stronger; unity, courage and the belief that freedom was worth the risk.

Their stunning victory over the North Cork Militia electrified the countryside. Word spread like wildfire. Hope surged. So the very next day, the Rebel forces, now thousands strong moved towards their next great test, the town of Enniscorthy.

Led by Fr. Michael Murphy, Fr. John Murphy, Miles Byrne and Edward Roche, six to seven thousand Rebels advanced, eventhough only a fraction of them actually carried fi****ms. Facing them was a much smaller Crown force, 300 Yeomen and Militia, supported by loyal townspeople. The Rebels launched a co-ordinated assault with the pike and musket, men pressing hard at the Duffry Gate.

What unfolded was not just a battle for a town, but a battle for momentum, identity and the future of the rising. The victory at Oulart Hill had shown what ordinary people could achieve together. The assault on Enniscorthy proved that their resolve was no fleeting spark; it was a movement gathering force.

From Oulart Hill to Enniscorthy, these days in May 1798 remind us that history is shaped not just by the powerful, but by communities who refuse to accept injustice and who stood together when it mattered most.

The Jackie Clarke Museum is home to an impressive and extensive body of material relating to the 1798 Rebellion, including rare books, maps, newspapers, United Irishmen handbills and artefacts belonging to Theobald Wolfe Tone.

So why not come and visit us and step back in time into one of the most important periods in our great nation’s history. The Museum and its Walled Heritage Garden are open from Tuesday to Saturday from 10am until 5pm and entrance is free!

Mayo County Council Mayo County Library Mayo North Tourism, Ireland Mayo.ie The Heritage Council Fáilte Ireland The Irish Abroad Tourisme Irlandais Tourism Ireland Discover Ireland Wild Atlantic Way Wild Atlantic Cultural Tours Wild About Ireland Tours County Mayo History & Heritage North Mayo West Sligo Heritage Group really great tours Ireland on a Budget

27/05/2026

Just a reminder, everyone! Plenty of spaces left for Whispers of the Moy this Saturday at 11 a.m. We’ll meet at Jackie Clarke Gardens. The weather is set to be great, don’t miss this chance. Book your spot now and walk the stories with me.

Imagine: Ballina Tidy Towns FB Page 💚

27/05/2026

What a glorious May morning we had here in Ballina yesterday, as the 6th class students from St Oliver Plunkett NS, The Quay, joined us for an Historical Walking Tour of Ballina with our Education Co‑ordinator, Mike.

Setting off under bright blue skies, the class explored some of the town’s most iconic landmarks, guided by their special JCC workbooks filled with clues, puzzles and prompts that led them from site to site. Each stop revealed another layer of Ballina’s remarkable past.

From the powerful story of Humbert’s Memorial and the dramatic events of 1798, to the many monuments and markers that honour the people and moments that shaped the town, the students traced history right where it happened. Mike brought each location to life with the kind of detail and energy that always sparks curiosity and conversation.

The sunshine, the enthusiasm and the sense of discovery made it a perfect day for learning outdoors. Well done to the 6th class for their brilliant engagement and teamwork as they followed the clues around town.

Another wonderful visit filled with history, heritage and hands on learning in the heart of Ballina.

Mayo County Council Mayo.ie Mayo North Tourism, Ireland Fáilte Ireland The Heritage Council The Irish Abroad Tourisme Irlandais Tourism Ireland Discover Ireland Discover Ireland County Mayo History & Heritage North Mayo West Sligo Heritage Group Wild Atlantic Way Visit Mayo really great tours Ireland on a Budget

26/05/2026

**ADVANCED NOTICE OF CLOSURE FOR STAFF TRAINING**

Just to advise you that the Jackie Clarke Collection will be closed until 1:00pm on Wednesday 27th May 2026 for staff training, we apologise for any inconvenience caused.

fans Mayo County Council Mayo County Library Mayo.ie Mayo North Tourism, Ireland Fáilte Ireland The Heritage Council

26/05/2026

Manager of the Jackie Clarke Collection Yvonne Corcoran Loftus, Education Co-ordinator Mike Kelly and Maura Murphy (Mayo County Council Tourism Department) were delighted to attend the Westport Adventure Partner Day yesterday. It was an energising and insightful event that brought together tourism and hospitality partners from across the region.

The day offered an excellent opportunity to network with colleagues from the National Museum of Ireland – Turlough Park, Westport Plaza Hotel Spa, Westport Woods Hotel and The Great National Hotel Ballina, amongst others. The atmosphere was vibrant, collaborative and full of ideas for strengthening visitor experiences across Mayo.

A special word of thanks to Biddy Hughes from Westport Estate for organising such a well run and engaging event. Westport Adventure is a fantastic facility with so much to offer with Zip Lines, Giant Swings and Climbing Walls and lots more! It was inspiring to see the passion and innovation driving their work.

Yvonne and Mike were proud to represent the Jackie Clarke Museum and to continue building strong partnerships that support tourism, heritage and community engagement throughout the region.

Mayo County Council Mayo North Tourism, Ireland Visit Mayo Mayo.ie Fáilte Ireland The Heritage Council The Irish Abroad Tourism Ireland Discover Ireland Wild Atlantic Way

Address

Pearse Street
Ballina

Opening Hours

Tuesday	10am - 5pm
Wednesday	10am - 5pm
Thursday	10am - 5pm
Friday	10am - 5pm
Saturday	10am - 5pm

Telephone

+3539673508

Website

http://www.clarkecollection.ie/, https://www.tripadvisor.ie/Attraction_Review-g211864-d4232304-Reviews-Jackie_Clarke_Col

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