Decade of Centenaries 2012-2023 - 2021 Programme
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Decade of Centenaries 2012-2023 2021 Programme
Contents
Foreword from the Minister
for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht,
Sport and Media 3
Context from the Chair of the Expert Advisory
Group (EAG) on Centenary Commemorations 4
Decade of Centenaries Programme 2021 5
Objectives of the Programme 6
Themes under the Programme 7
Strands of the Programme 8
STATE CEREMONIAL STRAND 9
HISTORICAL STRAND 10
COMMUNITY STRAND 27
CREATIVE IMAGINATION STRAND 38
Key contacts and resources 45
click here on each image in the
Programme for caption/credit
information’
| Page 2
Foreword
I am very pleased to present The State’s role is to set a measured, inclusive and The commemorative programme for 2021
the Decade of Centenaries sensitive tone; to faithfully present our history, is supported with a budget of €5 million – a
even when the historical record is distressing. significant increase of €3 million on last year’s
Programme for 2021. funding allocation.
We must also reflect on the great tragedy of all of
those who died or whose lives were transformed
We have, as all readers will be acutely The programme acknowledges both the
because of the events that took place during those
aware, now entered the most challenging military aspects as well as the constitutional
years.
and sensitive period of commemoration, parliamentary traditions and the democratic
which includes the Struggle for Historical accuracy, academic integrity, and processes underpinning all traditions on this
Independence, Partition, the Foundation archival discovery are key tenets of the island. It explores the social, cultural, and
of the State and the Civil War. My commemorative programme, which follows closely economic changes that were taking place during
responsibility, as Minister for Tourism, the centenary timeline of the events that occurred this period. It highlights the contribution of
Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media, in this period. women during this time and their experiences.
is to ensure that this complex period The programme will be a living document,
Our revolutionary past poses challenging
in our history is remembered with an updated as plans continue to evolve and new
questions. The Government’s approach, in
appropriate, meaningful, proportionate partnerships and projects are confirmed.
considering how best to mark the sensitive
and sensitive programme, which recognises
forthcoming anniversaries in an appropriate, The history of this period belongs to all of us
the legitimacy of all traditions, and values
measured and respectful way, has at all times and I would like to sincerely thank everyone
mutual respect and historical authenticity.
been informed and guided by the Expert Advisory who has contributed to the programme – our
The guidance of the Expert Advisory Group on Centenary Commemorations, under the local authorities, local community groups and
Group on Centenary Commemorations excellent stewardship of Dr Maurice Manning and commemorative committees, National Cultural
is clear - the focus of the State should Dr Martin Mansergh. I would like to express my Institutions, institutions of learning, custodians
remain on commemoration, remembrance appreciation to the Group for this very important of records, artists and creative communities,
and reconciliation. It is important to work. I am reconvening the All-Party Consultation media and broadcasting organisations, among
acknowledge that this does not mean that Group on Commemorations and I look forward to others. The commitment, enthusiasm, and
we ignore differences or divisions. The engaging with the Group on the Programme. ambition of our partners has created engaging
journey towards self-determination and and imaginative activities to encourage as many
There are many ways of learning about our past
nationhood was a complex and difficult one, people as possible to explore our shared history,
and this programme seeks to make our history
interspersed with acts of unprecedented in all of its complexity, in a respectful and
accessible, engaging and relevant for everyone.
violence and tragedy. supportive environment.
In this programme you will find a rich diversity
of initiatives to remember and commemorate
Catherine Martin, TD
the significant events that occurred in 1921 and
important broader themes. Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht,
Sport and Media
| Page 3
Context from the Chair of the Expert Advisory
Group (EAG) on Centenary Commemorations
When the then Taoiseach, Enda Kenny, ‘... not by trying for an enforced common interest Our local authorities have been Terrible atrocities took place during
established the Expert Advisory Group on or universal participation, but by encouraging magnificent partners in this regard these years, which must be considered
Centenary Commemorations in 2012, he multiple and plural commemorations, which – driving and supporting respectful very carefully, grounded in the evidence
gave us two over-riding instructions. remember the past while ensuring, as far as and meaningful community-led of factual, authentic archival sources.
possible, that the commemoration does not re- commemorations, with sensitivity to the Commemoration does not signify
The first was to safeguard the integrity
ignite old tensions’... local context. celebration and inclusivity does not imply
of the entire commemorative process
approval of the events that took place.
- ensuring that the Decade belonged It is fair to say, I think, that the past eight years As a people, we were rightly proud of
to the people and that there would of commemoration have been both rewarding how we commemorated the events of We all have a responsibility to continue
be no manipulation for political or and enjoyable. There is, as yet, no sense of 1916 - with style, generosity, pride and our exploration of our past with
other purposes - whether it came from commemoration fatigue, notwithstanding kindness. We became a people at ease sensitivity, curiosity and empathy;
Government or other vested interests. the challenges presented by the evolving with our own history – moving beyond our embracing all of its nuances and
COVID-19 pandemic. Throughout the own particular perspective to view events complexities in an inclusive and respectful
The second was to lay down guiding
Decade, there has been strong buy-in from all objectively. manner. These are fragile times, where
principles and values to ensure that the
stakeholders across the political, community, extreme language and posturing can
historical events to be remembered were Most importantly of all, we appreciated
education and enterprise sectors and in cause so much hurt, bitterness and harm,
authentic, and that the commemorative the space and respect given to voices
the global Irish community. The opening undoing the generous, collaborative spirit
programme was respectful, sensitive, who perhaps could not speak freely
of archives and the busy burrowing of of the past few years. It will be a shame
citizen-focused and proportionate. before, who now had the freedom to
historians - professional and amateur - is - and shameful - if the spirit of openness
commemorate their own traditions as
In going about our work, we were very giving new insights, new knowledge and a and tolerance which has made all of this
part of the various strands that make our
conscious that on this island we have new appreciation of the complexities of this possible is fractured and damaged. We all
common history.
a common history but not a common period. have a responsibility to ensure that this is
memory of these shaping events. It is my fervent hope that this genuinely not allowed to happen.
We have also seen unprecedented public
inclusive spirit, with the principles
We were very clear, in all of our engagement and pride in the exploration In all that we do, we must continue to
and values that have shaped the
statements, that commemorations should of history, particularly local and family strive for respectful, measured, non-
commemorative process up to now, will
not ignore differences and divisions. The history. We have seen the extraordinary partisan remembrance, which promotes
continue to prevail, especially as we
goal of inclusiveness, we said, is best capacity of local communities to mobilise and peace and reconciliation across the island
continue to face into remembrance of the
achieved; achieve successful outcomes when the right of Ireland.
Struggle for Independence, Partition, the
structures and supports are put in place to
Foundation of the State and the Civil War.
combine our individual efforts, expertise and
creativity. Dr Maurice Manning
Chair of the Expert Advisory Group on
Centenary Commemorations
| Page 4
Decade of Centenaries Impact of the
COVID-19 national
Programme 2021 emergency
The on-going COVID-19 national
emergency has significantly impacted
In 2021, the State will commemorate a number of significant centenaries, culminating in the upon the usual Decade of Centenaries
signing of the Anglo-Irish Treaty on 6th December, leading into the Civil War period. programme delivery mechanisms with the
cancellation or postponement of public
commemorative events and associated
This is likely to be the most challenging period 2021 is the beginning of a final three-year outreach activities. This was particularly
of the Decade of Centenaries Programme programme of the Decade of Centenaries. It challenging in 2020 with significant plans
to date. The Government’s approach to this is envisaged that this will allow a more holistic This is likely to be for Cork City and County Programmes
period will be to set a measured, respectful and approach to the remainder of the Decade and the most challenging having to be cancelled and/or postponed,
inclusive tone which encourages the public to will help partners and stakeholders to develop including a State commemoration.
engage with the history of this period through new programmes and initiatives over the next period of the Decade
The conditions for safely holding public
interesting and imaginative initiatives. This will three years. of Centenaries commemorative events in 2021 are likely
help to encourage a deeper understanding of
the context of the time, which is accepting of the
The Programme elements will share a Programme to date. to remain challenging. As the public health
common set of broad themes and ideas but advice and measures to contain the spread
differing perspectives on our shared history and
can be nuanced each year to allow for specific The Government’s of COVID-19 evolve, the Department of
seeks to strengthen peace and reconciliation on
the island of Ireland.
centenaries to be remembered in different approach to this Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport
ways. These themes are outlined on page 7. and Media will continue to work with
The Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts,
period will be to set a partners and stakeholders to determine
This Programme for 2021 is the culmination
Gaeltacht, Sport and Media is responsible
of collaboration right across Government,
measured, respectful to what degree and in what format,
for co-ordinating the development of an planned events can proceed. Plans for all
appropriate cross-governmental programme
the National Cultural Institutions, institutes and inclusive tone commemorative activities in 2021 will
of learning, local authorities, arts and cultural
to remember the significant historical events
partners and other key stakeholders. It
which encourages continue to be informed and underpinned
and themes of the Decade of Centenaries. This by the public health advice and protective
approach is grounded in the principles laid down
represents a snapshot in time and will be the public to engage health measures.
developed further as the year unfolds with
by the Expert Advisory Group on Centenary
new ideas and new partnerships developed
with the history of Stakeholders will be invited to develop
Commemorations in its Original Statement
(published in 2012), Second Statement
as appropriate and in line with the objectives this period through initiatives that support alternative
of the Decade of Centenaries Programme approaches to citizen engagement, such
(published in 2017) and its subsequent guidance
2021-2023. Many of the new partnerships
interesting and as the development of curated digital
(published in January 2019).
and initiatives will be carried through into imaginative initiatives.” content, online exhibitions, podcasts,
The Minister also chairs the All-Party the programme for the Civil War and the webinars, virtual tours, artistic and
Consultation Group on Commemorations in remainder of the Decade of Centenaries. creative endeavours, and other online
relation to the Government’s plans for the It also includes indicative plans for the outreach activities for people of all ages.
Programme. The Group is a useful forum to remainder of the Decade of Centenaries.
explore a broad spectrum of views.
| Page 5
Objectives of
the Programme
The objectives of the Decade of Centenaries Programme
have remained constant from the outset for all of those
involved in the commemorative process. It is proposed that
these objectives will remain in place for the remainder of
the Decade, as follows:
To focus on themes of reconciliation and on
remembrance of all of those who lost their lives
during this period;
To promote a deeper understanding of the
significant historical events of this period,
recognising that the shared historical experiences
of those years gave rise to very different
narratives and memories;
To encourage reflection about the multiple
identities, traditions and perspectives that are
part of the overall Irish historical experience;
To respond with sensitivity to the local historical
context, acknowledging that there was no uniform
experience within counties or across the island of
Ireland; and
To continue to promote a consultative and open
approach to commemorations, which seeks to
strengthen peace and reconciliation across the
island of Ireland. A core element of reconciliation
is acknowledgement of the legitimacy of all of the
traditions on the island that draw their identity
and collective memory from our shared history.
| Page 6
Themes
under the
1 Reflection – Community-led
commemoration and reflection; remembering
local legacies, personalities, places, events
6 Establishing a New Order –
Exploring the significance of local government
reform and the evolution of new political and
Programme
and themes that have particular significance administrative structures at national and local level;
within counties, parishes and communities.
Establishment of the various institutions of the
Irish Free State (including Civil Service, the Defence
2
Forces, An Garda Síochána, judiciary, and courts
The following broad themes are Remembrance – Respectful, sensitive and
based on the Guidance from services);
non-partisan remembrance of all of those
the Expert Advisory Group on Development of new infrastructure (transportation,
who suffered and died during the period
Centenary Commemorations as communications, postal services); and
from 1921-1923.
published in January 2019. They Continuing the parliamentary tradition - Elections
are intended to support partners during this period – the prominent personalities
and stakeholders in developing
3
and issues associated with the local and national
their initiatives and projects and The Partitioning of Ireland – Exploration elections 1920 to 1923.
encourage a level of consistency of the impact and legacy of the events that
in approach to programme occurred during this period on communities
7
development while still allowing living along the newly established border
flexibility, community-led, and A Changing Society during this period, including:
and further afield.
creative interpretations. 2021 will The labour movement and civil disobedience
be the beginning of a final three-
Popular social, cultural and civic movements
4
year programme of the Decade of
Centenaries. The Programme will Ireland and the Wider World – Social class and gender
share a common set of broad themes Exploration of the international dimension, The Irish language
and ideas, but these can be nuanced including local connections, emigration, and The Land Question
each year to allow for specific the role of the Irish Diaspora in the events The significance of sport in communities
centenaries to be remembered in that occurred during the revolutionary
The humanitarian response during the Struggle for
different ways. These themes are: period. Also, exploring the evolution of all-
Independence and the Civil War
island institutions following partition.
Innovation in the fields of agriculture, industry,
science, commerce and medicine
5 Experiences of women - Exploration of
the experiences of women during this period
and their contribution to the events that
occurred, including their changing role in 8 Creative thinking and the arts – poetry, literature,
music, theatre, and other art forms, 1921 – 1923.
society.
| Page 7
Strands STATE CEREMONIAL STRAND
of the
A State Ceremonial Strand comprises a limited number of symbolic acts
of national commemoration focusing on themes of remembrance and
reconciliation and on the commemoration of all those who lost their lives
during this period.
Programme HISTORICAL STRAND
In order to achieve the Programme A Historical Strand comprises a diverse range of activities designed to
objectives, and to provide a framework encourage authentic historical enquiry about this period and promote
the use of primary archival sources. Initiatives will be developed in
for the thematic approach, the
collaboration with State partners, National Cultural Institutions,
approach to the development and institutions of learning, and other stakeholders.
delivery of the Decade of Centenaries
Programme for 2021–2023 comprises
four thematic strands: COMMUNITY STRAND
A Community Strand will involve a collaborative approach – similar to
that adopted for the 1916 centenary commemorations - between the
State, local authority network and community organisations, including in
Northern Ireland where appropriate.
CREATIVE IMAGINATION STRAND
A Creative Imagination Strand will continue to encourage artistic and
creative expression in remembrance of the significant historical events of
the period from 1921 to 1923 and all of those who lost their lives.
| Page 8
1 State
Ceremonial
Strand
The Expert Advisory Group recommends that a
formal commemoration for all of those who lost their
lives during the Struggle for Independence be held
on the 11th July 2021, or on a suitable date close to
the centenary of the coming into effect of the Truce.
It is envisaged that this symbolic act of national
commemoration will focus on themes of remembrance
and reconciliation. This event will be led by the
Department of the Taoiseach with support where
appropriate from the Department of Tourism, Culture,
Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media.
The marking of other significant events will be led
by local authorities also with support from the
Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport
and Media.
| Page 9
2 Historical
Strand
2
The State’s approach to the remembrance of the period
covered by the Decade of Centenaries has to date been
based on the ethos of authenticity, inclusivity and
partnership. The Department will help to develop and
co-ordinate imaginative and informative programmes,
engaging the public in new ways and encouraging and
guiding citizens in interpreting the impact of this
pivotal part of our history.
We will continue to support initiatives that
encourage ongoing research and free public access
to authentic historical sources, including local
archival sources, local research and scholarship.
| Page 10Mná 100
Historical
A new dedicated resource to highlight the role
of women in the period 1921 to 1923 is being
launched by the Department in May 2021. This
project involves collaborative initiatives highlighting
women’s participation in political, military,
professional and domestic roles during this period.
The content will highlight stories and material
previously not accessible to the public or widely
known, in the form of curated podcasts, webinars
and on-line exhibitions.
It will be structured around a number of themes including:
Role of women advocating for Ireland Internationally
Role of women’s organisations in the Campaign for
Independence and the Civil War
Role of women in the Oireachtas
Violence against women
Extension of the franchise – universal suffrage
Pioneering professional women
Experiences of women on both sides of the border following
Partition
This content will be generated and managed by the Department
of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media and we will
work collaboratively with the National Cultural Institutions, local
authorities and other partners.
| Page 11www.mna100.ie
Mná100
Historical
This dedicated online platform will be launched in May to highlight the role of
women in key centenary moments over the remainder of the Decade.
One of the great legacies of the Decade It will feature new stories of women who Following hearings and reports, The In Autumn 1921, treaty negotiations
of Centenaries is a richer understanding were active in Ireland, as well as women American Committee for Relief in began in London. Mná100 will explore
and appreciation of the important role of abroad who assisted Ireland in the Ireland oversaw the collection of $5 the stories of the women involved,
women in shaping Ireland’s history during campaign for independence during these million in aid, which was distributed in including Kathleen McKenna, whose story
unprecedented years of change. The Ireland by the Irish White Cross. is recorded in her memoir, A Dáil Girl’s
those revolutionary years.
website will look at how the events of Revolutionary Recollections.
Mná100, in partnership with Limerick
New research and scholarship by established those years shaped the lives of women
City and County Council, will also When the articles of agreement for a
and early-career historians has revealed who lived during this time and those
highlight the importance of Mary Clancy Treaty with Great Britain and Ireland were
new aspects of the seminal events that took who came afterwards.
and Kate O’Callaghan becoming public signed in London in December 1921, the
place in Ireland between 1912 and 1923, and
The centenary moments featured will figures in their grief. Their husbands, five female members of Dáil Éireann were
has led to a re-interpretation and greater
range from the attainment of the full Mayor George Clancy and former Mayor among the most vocal of the opponents as
public understanding of the role of known
franchise for women to the first Irish Michael O’Callaghan, were killed in the the country headed towards Civil War.
and some less well-known women. A wealth
women lawyers who were called to the city by Crown Forces in March 1921,
of new source material from the Military
Irish Bar in November 1921. in what became known as the Curfew Dr Sinéad McCoole
Archives Pension Record has added layers of
Murders. At that time, elected officials Historical Adviser for Mná100
meaning, revealing a more complex story of the One significant centenary moment
were being targeted, as Dáil Éireann
revolutionary years. A change is happening to this year are the events leading to the
had set up an alternative administration
the historic canon. formation of the Irish White Cross
with a national and local government Links to information about the virtual
in Spring 1921. Thousands of homes, tour of the pop-up museum exploring
The digitisation of a range of sources by our infrastructure. Their widows conveyed
shops, farms, creameries, and factories 100 years of women in politics and
National Cultural Institutions has facilitated their stories and garnered sympathy for
had been destroyed, devastating local public life;
a more reflective selection of material, with a the Irish campaign for independence
economies, and leaving hundreds of
natural gender balance. The community focus with the general public and the
families destitute. Many people were Take the Tour
of centenary events has been facilitated and international media. Widow Kate
killed. There were mass arrests and Mainly Museums article
amplified by the work of the local authority O’Callaghan was elected to serve in the
imprisonments in jails and internment Recording of the lunchtime lecture,
Decade of Centenaries co-ordinators. It is no second Dáil Éireann.
camps. Many of those affected were hosted by Dr Sinéad McCoole, on
longer a story that emanates from the capital
non-combatants. A Truce in hostilities came in the summer 22nd September 2020, entitled
and the main cities with a select cast of key
of 1921. Prisoners were released, ‘The Year 1920 – Irish Trailblazers,
protagonists; now, it is rich and diverse, a more In the United States, the American
although Linda Kearns, Eithne Coyle, and National and International
rounded picture of Ireland during the years Commission on Conditions in Ireland
May Burke had already escaped from
1912-1923. was established, to investigate events Recording of the lunchtime lecture,
Mountjoy Jail before their comrades
in Ireland in 1920, which had become hosted by Dr Sinéad McCoole, on
For the final phase of the Decade of were released.
known as the year of terror, as new 15th December 2020, to mark the
Centenaries, a new, online women’s
recruits were drafted into the police centenary of events in the United
history resource is under development –
force and a volunteer army engaged in a States in 1920 during Ireland’s
www.mna100.ie. This dedicated online
guerrilla war. campaign for independence
platform will be launched in May to highlight
the role of women in key centenary moments
over the remainder of the Decade.
| Page 12Beyond 2022:
Historical
Ireland’s Virtual Record Treasury
Building bridges and
deserted children in
Shortly before the terrible fire of 1922, the Public The ‘Record Treasury’ at the Public Record Office
Record Office of Ireland was described as the “great of Ireland stored seven centuries of Irish records
pre-Famine Wicklow.
untilled field of Irish history”. It matched the greatest dating back to the time of the Normans. Together with
archives of the world in its scale, scope and significance. our five Core Archival Partners and over 40 other In May 2021, we are delighted to partner with the
For generations after its destruction in 1922, that Participating Institutions in Ireland, Britain and the Local Government Archives and Records Managers
field could not be tilled. Now, through the Beyond USA, we are working to recover what was lost in that (LGARM) group to mark the centenary of an earlier
2022 Project, we are drawing strength from over 50 terrible fire one hundred years ago. event, the attack on the Custom House on 25th May
partner institutions across Ireland and internationally. 1921, when the archives of the Local Government
On the centenary of the Four Courts blaze, we will
Together, we are reconstructing the past and looking Board for Ireland were destroyed. Before county
launch the Virtual Record Treasury of Ireland online.
to the future. Our collaborative framework restores councils were established, Grand Juries ran local
Many millions of words from destroyed documents
access to Irish history for a new generation, and offers a government. Their records, which are held in
will be linked and reassembled from copies,
meaningful, living legacy beyond the current Decade of local county archives across Ireland and in PRONI
transcripts and other records scattered among the
Centenaries. (Belfast), contain a wealth of details about people
collections of our archival partners. We will bring
and places.
Beyond 2022 is an all-island and international together this rich array of replacement items within
collaborative research project working to create a an immersive 3-D reconstruction of the destroyed Then, to mark the 99th anniversary of the Four
virtual reconstruction of the Public Record Office building. Courts blaze on 30th June, we will host ‘Deep
of Ireland, which was destroyed in the opening History, Deepening Connections’. Presented from
The Virtual Record Treasury of Ireland will be an
engagement of the Civil War on June 30th, 1922. London in collaboration with The National Archives
open-access resource, freely available online to all
UK, this event will explore the centuries’ deep
On 5th December 2019, the Taoiseach announced those interested in Irish history at home and abroad.
interconnection between our two islands, presenting
a capital grant allocation of €2.5 million from the Many of the most important memory institutions
a story not only of conquest and colonisation but
Department of Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht, worldwide are joining us in this shared mission to
also of ties of trade, culture, family and evolving
under Project Ireland 2040, to support this research reconstruct Ireland’s lost history. The Virtual Record
identities. The showcase demonstrates how Beyond
project to the end of 2022. Treasury will serve as a living and growing legacy from
2022 has forged deepening archival connections in
the Decade of Centenaries.
Britain, enabling us to link scattered fragments of the
During 2021, we will celebrate our collaborations and Irish past and to dig deeper than ever into our rich
share our research with audiences across the island of treasury of historical records.
Ireland and abroad.
Dr Peter Crooks
Project Director
| Page 13NATIONAL ARCHIVES
National Digitisation Projects
Historical
Cultural Digitisation is the process of converting information from a physical
format into a digital one, in the case of the National Archives this
Institutions involves creating high resolution digital images of and from original
hard-copy records. The public can access these files here.
The Department will continue Cabinet Minute Books April Constitution Committee 1922 The National Archives continues to work in
partnership with the Beyond 2022 project
to work in partnership with the 1919-April 1922 The Constitution Committee
National Cultural Institutions, in was appointed by the Provisional team and other archival institutions
Following the General Election of
recognition of their significant role as Government in January 1922 to in Ireland and the United Kingdom, to
December 1918, the first two sessions
custodians of our history and culture; draft the first Constitution of the digitally reconstruct the record treasury
of Dáil Éireann or the ‘First Dáil’ were
creating opportunities for people Irish Free State. It was chaired of the Public Record Office of Ireland,
held in the Mansion House, Dublin
of all traditions to reflect upon the initially by Michael Collins. The including digital copies of archives,
on 21st - 22nd January 1919. The third
complexities of the events of this records held in the National destroyed during the Civil War in 1922.
session was not held until 1st April 1919
period and related themes. Archives comprise minutes, drafts,
when Eamon de Valera was elected
President of Dáil Éireann (Príomh- research and administrative
The initiatives under Aire). material produced by the workings
of the Committee over a period of
development for 2021/2022 The following day he appointed six weeks.
under the Historical Strand of his cabinet of the new Sinn Féin
the Programme include the government: Arthur Griffith, Secretary
of Home Affairs and Deputy President;
following: Michael Collins, Secretary of Finance;
Cathal Brugha, Secretary of Defence;
William T Cosgrave, Secretary of Local
Government; Count George Nobel
Plunkett, Secretary of Foreign Affairs;
Countess Constance de Markievicz,
Secretary of Labour; and Eoin MacNéill,
Secretary of Industries. Robert Barton
became head of the Department of
Agriculture and Laurence Ginnel, head
of the Department of Propaganda.
The cabinet’s meetings are recorded in
minute books from 26th April 1919 to
28th April 1922
| Page 14NATIONAL ARCHIVES
Historical
Anglo-Irish
2021 and the National Archives Treaty 1921
Exhibition
This year presents a unique The National Archives Treaty collection The Exhibition will be designed to The National Archives will
curate a significant exhibition
opportunity to commemorate the is the repository for many records and reach a broad and diverse audience
documents that represent the events from historians and academics, to mark the centenary of the
events leading up to and following
around the Treaty negotiations, the Treaty those involved in Irish political life signing of the Anglo-Irish
the signing of the Anglo-Irish
itself and the time spent by the delegation to citizens, including schools and Treaty on 6th December 1921.
Treaty in December 1921 from Using the Treaty as the centre
in London in the weeks running up to universities. Workshops, curated
an historical context with records piece, the exhibition will
agreement of the Treaty. It is proposed talks, a digital programme as well
from the National Archives include many of the records
to highlight these records as well as as guided tours will support the
Collections charting the Truce in other materials from partner institutions exhibition so that we can engage held by the National Archives
July 1921 to the signing of the including objects and images which also with as wide a public as possible, relating to the Treaty.
Treaty on 6th December that year. contribute to the telling of the full story of both in person and using a range of
The Anglo-Irish Treaty is perhaps the the events from that period. digital platforms.
most significant historical document Using the Treaty as the centre piece, the
held by the National Archives. It is exhibition will include: Orlaith McBride
Director
the intention therefore to curate a
significant exhibition to mark the Peace negotiations correspondence The Anglo-Irish
centenary of the signing of the Treaty. June 1921 – September 1921
Treaty is perhaps
This exhibition will open at the Coach Anglo-Irish Treaty 1921
House, Dublin Castle, on 6th December Dáil Éireann Treaty debates leading
the most significant
2021. There will be a preview
exhibition in London in the weeks prior
up to and following the signing of the historical document
Treaty
to the Dublin opening in conjunction Original ‘hand written’ Cabinet held by the National
with the Irish Embassy, to coincide with
the centenary of the time spent by the
minutes
Archives”
Accounts specifically relating to the
Treaty delegation in London in 1921,
Treaty Delegations time in London
prior to the final agreement on the
during the negotiations when the
Treaty.
delegation lived at 15 Cadogan
Gardens and 22 Hans Place.
| Page 15THE NATIONAL LIBRARY OF IRELAND (NLI)
Historical
Towards a Republic (TAR) From Turmoil to Truce: ‘World War Ireland’ exhibition New collaboration with
For the second phase of the Decade of Photographs of the War of The NLI will also launch a major Century Ireland
Centenaries from 1918–1923, the National Independence’ exhibition new regional outreach initiative The NLI will also embark on a new
Library has opened up the personal papers In 2021, the National Library will in partnership with Cavan County collaboration with Century Ireland,
of key figures from this period with its major develop and release a virtual 3D Museum which will see its popular related specifically to its Global
cataloguing and digitisation project entitled version of its exhibition “From Turmoil ‘World War Ireland’ exhibition transfer Archives initiative. The initiative
‘Towards a Republic’. The catalogued and to Truce: Photographs of the War of from Kildare Street to Cavan on seeks to identify and promote the
digitised papers are being made openly Independence”. Work will also begin long-term loan. A 3-D virtual version international elements of Irish
available online on a phased basis from on a new exhibition on the Civil War, of World War Ireland is also in archives.
2019 to 2023 in its digital repository. to open in the National Photographic development and is scheduled to be
Materials include letters from Constance Archive during 2022. Drawing on released in 2021.
de Markievicz, Annie O’Farrelly papers, the NLI’s photographic collections A new educational programme aimed
Kathleen Clarke Memoirs, Arthur Griffith and featuring interpretive graphics, at adult learners based on a series of
papers, Cumann na mBan papers, Dr. maps and text, the exhibition will online lectures followed by classroom
Dorothy Price papers, Austin Stack papers, examine key themes and events of discussion, will provide an overview of
the Irish Republican Army Financial papers the conflict including conventional the period and reflect on the ongoing
and Accounts, 1922-1925, and many more. and guerrilla warfare, the influence of impact of events of the Decade of
In 2021, the NLI plans to celebrate the press and propaganda, state funerals, Centenaries. These elements of the
completion of the first phase of Towards a reprisals and executions, ceasefire programme will be compliant with all
Republic (TAR) with a significant public event. and negotiated peace, and the War’s public health requirements.
This public event will also mark the launch aftermath.
The National Library is also curating
of a new e-learning resource based on the a busy events programme featuring
TAR project, providing new digital learning a series of free, onsite and online
opportunities for primary and secondary public lectures/panel discussions.
schools. The NLI are developing further Its partnership with History Ireland
online educational resources and offerings will also continue in digital form,
associated with the Towards a Republic with Hedge School panel discussions Dr Sandra Collins
project, and the rollout of a programme Director
focusing on key themes and events of
of engagement with schools to include this period. These events will cover
online tours, workshops, and other learning topics such as the calling of a truce
activities for all school-age learners of all between forces in Britain and Ireland,
ages. the onset of Treaty negotiations and
The Programme will be national in scope, the signing of the Anglo-Irish Treaty in
sharing and promoting the national December.
collections and engaging locally with
commemorative events and learning
British Troops in
initiatives.
Kildare Street 1921
South Dublin Libraries
Collection | Page 16THE NATIONAL MUSEUM OF IRELAND (NMI)
Historical
STUDIO AND STATE The Irish Community Archive Network (iCAN) Programme
The Laverys and the Through the Irish Community Archive Network (iCAN), the National Museum of Ireland works
in partnership with Local Authority Heritage Officers in counties Clare, Galway and Wicklow, to
Anglo-Irish Treaty support community groups to collect, record and preserve their local history and heritage. iCAN
volunteers curate these local collections on their community archive websites, making them
exhibition accessible to local and global audiences.
iCAN communities have forged strong links with their local residents, schools, special interest
OPENS NOVEMBER 2021 groups and a global diaspora, building a broad audience of interest who are keen to participate in
the building of these local archives and related project-based initiatives. Between 2020 and 2023
Dublin City Gallery The Hugh Lane and the National
the iCAN Programme plans to organise a series of commemorative seminars and conferences.
Museum of Ireland are co-curating an exhibition to mark
the centenary of the signing of the Anglo-Irish Treaty.
The exhibition is due to be located in the National
Museum of Ireland – Decorative Arts & History, Collins Schools’ Project: Pathways to
Barracks. The exhibition will include works by Sir John
Lavery, Leo Whelan and other notable artists from The Giving Young People A Voice Participation
Hugh Lane, and historical artefacts from the collections This project proposes to invite young people, publication
of the National Museum of Ireland. through their schools or through other partners, As we reflect back over the
From the Truce of July 1921 to the signing of the Treaty to participate in cross-curricular and inter-disciplinary Decade of Centenaries, the
on 6th December of the same year, negotiations between workshops focusing on the pivotal events of 1920 to National Museum of Ireland
Irish and British representatives revealed two ominous 1923 including the Struggle for Independence, Partition, will document the diversity
trends: a near-impasse between the Irish and British the founding of the Free State and the Civil War. of learning programmes
on the subjects of the status of the new state and the Participants will be encouraged to focus on these events organised by the NMI to
nature of the relationship with Britain, and long-existing through the lens of contemporary society; exploring how commemorate the Decade of
divisions within the Irish nationalist movement itself. unresolved histories can have a detrimental impact on Centenaries. This publication
The negotiations for, and signing of the Treaty were people’s lives today. will reflect in particular
crystallising moments for Ireland during the ‘decade Workshop participants will be invited to engage with on people’s responses to
of disturbance’ from 1913 to 1923. The exhibition’s the NMI’s team of educators and facilitators to create their engagement in the
learning and engagement programme is a collaboration content and/or events that focus on NMI objects, as they programmes as participants
between both institutions, exploring wide-ranging relate to the period 1920 to 1923, in the context of the and partners.
themes including the intersections between art and question: how can we learn from history in order to stop
politics, expression of national or personal identities repeating our mistakes? The project will conclude with
through art, and art and propaganda. It is envisaged that a broadcasted schools’ conference in autumn 2023 to
the programme will be delivered through the medium enable wide participation with schools across Ireland.
of music, performance or dance as well as through talks,
walking or online tours and a major symposium planned
for early 2022.
| Page 17THE NATIONAL MUSEUM OF IRELAND (NMI)
Historical
National Museum of Ireland
Funding for a major new capital project Dublin City Gallery The Hugh Lane Photographs from the
– The 20th Century History of Ireland and the National Museum of Ireland National Museum’s Joseph
Galleries - has been approved by Minister will co-curate an exhibition to mark Cashman Collection that
for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, the centenary of the signing of the depict the principal events and
Sport and Media Catherine Martin, TD Anglo-Irish Treaty. The exhibition will personalities of the Truce-to-
for the National Museum of Ireland. be located in the National Museum Treaty era.
These permanent exhibition galleries are of Ireland, Collins Barracks, and will Works by Sir John Lavery, RA
due to open in 2023 in the Museum of open on 23rd November 2021. It is RSA RHA, from the Treaty
Decorative Arts and History at Collins planned to examine the political and period in the collection
Barracks, coinciding with the centenary military background to the Treaty, of The Hugh Lane. These
commemorations to mark the foundation particularly the role of Dáil Éireann include portraits of both
of the Irish Free State. The galleries will and the Cabinet, nascent Free State the signatories and of other
offer visitors an opportunity to explore / Republican military forces, and relevant figures from the time.
significant events in Irish history, leading their representation or otherwise of
Relevant artworks by Leo
up to and including the momentous the Irish people. The exhibition will
Whelan, RHA and Lily
events of the period being remembered also investigate negotiations for, and
Williams, ARHA, also in the
throughout the Decade of Centenaries, signing of the Treaty as crystallising
Hugh Lane collection.
1912-1923. The development process moments for Ireland during the
around the exhibition will offer ‘decade of disturbance’ from 1913 to A number of loans have been
opportunities for the NMI team to link in 1923, and to consider whether the requested from such bodies
with partners in academic institutions, series of events from signing to angry at the Irish Military Archives,
special interest groups, local museums, Dáil debates, to narrow ratification and National Gallery of Ireland and
local archive groups and local libraries. their aftermath mutated the Treaty National Museums Northern
NMI foresees that History of Ireland will from a vehicle of peace into a written Ireland.
connect directly with local communities; accelerator for civil war. A major publication will accompany
through the public consultation during the exhibition.
Contemporaneous artefacts from
the exhibition development; and the
the National Museum’s collection,
development of exhibition content that
comprising, for example, a copy of Lynn Scarff
will be designed to travel concurrently to
the Treaty document autographed Director Text of Treaty between Great
local museums and venues across Ireland.
by the signatories, the fountain Britain and Ireland
Archive material and exhibition panels pen reputedly used by Michael
that emphasise local objects and Collins to sign the original Treaty National Museum of Ireland
narratives will be developed, including document, and pro- and anti-
reproductions – these could potentially be Treaty propaganda works.
intelligence files, musical instruments or a
wide range of other objects.
| Page 18Historical
Opening of the Ulster
Parliament, Belfast
National Library of Ireland
| Page 19CENTENARY OF PARTITION
Historical
As the Expert Advisory Group note, ‘the The programme for the forthcoming Reflections on the The Partition of
approaching centenary of Northern Ireland period of commemorations will
coming into existence poses difficult and continue to encourage reflection about Centenary of the Ireland: Causes and
sensitive challenges. It is recognised that the multiple identities, traditions Government of Consequences
partition represented a gulf that affected, and perspectives that are part of the Ireland Act Queen’s University Belfast originally
for a long time, the totality of relationships overall Irish historical experience. The
within this island, particularly up until inclusive and respectful approach, Queen’s University Belfast intended to host a full academic
the Good Friday Agreement of 1998. The which has underpinned our successful hosted an online event entitled conference on this date, aligning
identification of the unionist community commemoration of events to date, will ‘Reflections on the Centenary of with the recommendation by the
with Northern Ireland as part of the United again guide our approach to marking the Government of Ireland Act’ on Expert Advisory Group on Centenary
Kingdom, and their pride in its existence and the anniversaries still to come. Thursday, 10th December 2020. Commemorations that an academic
achievements cannot be overlooked. Equally, This event brought together conference would be an appropriate
The programme will take account of way of marking the centenary of
the nationalist community in Northern political leaders and academics to
sensitivities across communities in partition and the foundation of
Ireland experienced serious alienation over reflect on the themes of partition
Northern Ireland and will continue Northern Ireland.
50 years under the Parliament established and the foundation of Northern
to recognise that very different
in 1921. The story of a third group, the Ireland. The programme included Due to COVID-19, the conference
perspectives persist on many of these
Southern Unionist tradition, whose way of pre-recorded speeches by the proposal has been re-imagined. A
events - in particular on Partition and
life, culture and political aspirations were Minister for Foreign Affairs, series of on-line public talks, hosted
the foundation of Northern Ireland - in
forever impacted by partition, should also be Simon Coveney TD and the by Queen’s University Belfast, entitled
line with the guidance provided by the
acknowledged during the commemorations.’ Secretary of State for Northern ‘The Partition of Ireland: Causes and
Expert Advisory Group.
Ireland, Brandon Lewis MP and Consequences’ will take place during
Officials from the Department of a pre-recorded moderated 2021 to mark the 100th anniversary
Foreign Affairs will continue to maintain panel discussion, chaired by of the Partition of Ireland. The series
close contact with a broad range of Professor Fearghal McGarry, with
Sec ond Pha Se Guidance 2018–2023
is supported by the UK and Irish
stakeholders in Northern Ireland, contributions from Lord Paul Bew Governments, and by the Royal Irish
including political representatives and and Professor Mary Daly. The Academy and the British Academy.
Deich mBliana na the Northern Ireland Office’s Centenary First Minister and Deputy First The BBC has agreed to record the
gCuimhneachán Forum, to ensure open channels of Minister also contributed pre- talks and it’s envisaged that the series
Treoir an Dara Céim
Decade of Centenaries communication in relation to planning recorded speeches for this event. will be available to the public on BBC
Second Phase Guidance for the forthcoming centenaries. Sounds as well as on the websites of
2018–2023
QUB, the RIA and the British Academy.
An Sainghrúpa Expert Advisory
Comhairleach maidir le
Comóradh Céad Bliain
Group on Centenary
Commemorations
The first talk will air in April 2021.
| Page 20Irish Embassy Network
Historical
New Bursary Scheme to
The Department of The Irish Embassy in London, with The Irish Embassy in Washington support local historians
Tourism, Culture, Arts, support from D/TCAGSM, are D.C., in conjunction with leading
In consultation with the Expert Advisory
Gaeltacht, Sport and developing a programme to mark the Irish studies programmes at
centenary of the Treaty negotiations in American Universities and Group, initiatives will be developed to
Media will continue to encourage local historians and new research
London. The planned programme may Colleges, and the American
support the Irish embassy focusing on themes associated with the local
include an exhibition of John Lavery’s Conference for Irish Studies are
network to ensure that experience of the Struggle for Independence
paintings in London; an exhibition in organising a series of lectures
appropriate recognition is and the Civil War period. A new dedicated
conjunction with the National Archives; and panel discussions, entitled
given to the international a number of site specific performances A Farther Shore - American fund will be established to assist in the
dimension and the role of of ‘The Treaty’, a new play, from Reflections on the Advent of Irish publication and promotion of this new
the Diaspora in the events Fishamble Theatre and possibly an Independence (1921-22). The research.
of this period. Initiatives event in the Embassy bringing relatives programme will begin in early
planned for 2021 include: of the negotiators of the Treaty 2021, with contributions from
together, both British and Irish. With
input from historians, this event will
scholars based at, or connected
to, US institutions, and run
Origins of our Criminal
reflect on the Treaty, the role of their monthly - at least initially online - Justice System
ancestors, the wider social and cultural through to June 2021, including a The Department of Justice will have a
context and the direction of lives and keynote panel at the ACIS annual leading role, in consultation with the
careers after the Treaty was signed. conference in Derry. Expert Advisory Group on Centenary
Commemorations on the development of
plans to explore the origins of the criminal
justice system, the courts, and policing in
Ireland.
New Publications
The Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media is supporting the
publication of two Royal Irish Academy publications - ‘Ireland 1922: Independence, Partition, Civil
War’ and ‘The Handover: Dublin Castle and the British withdrawal from Ireland’.
The Department is also supporting the publication of the following:
Shadows and Reflections – A Photographic Portrait of the Irish National War Memorial Gardens
with observations in poetry and prose by a local women’s community collective in Dublin 8;
An edited volume, Female enfranchisement and its limitations, 1918-2018: Gender, politics,
class, and caste in Ireland, Europe and India. 20 specially commissioned chapters on Irish
Gender History 1852-1922 from scholars in the field and a foreword by Professor Jane
Ohlmeyer, TCD; and
Production and publication of a Bibliography of Irish Women’s History by the Women’s
History Association of Ireland (WHAI) as a public resource.
| Page 21Historical BURNING OF THE CUSTOM HOUSE
The Department of Housing, Local Government
and Heritage is developing a broad commemorative
programme to mark the centenary of the Burning of
the Custom House, including the development of a
new visitor centre on site. It had been intended to open
the new centre on the 25th May to mark the centenary,
but delivery of the project has been delayed due to
COVID-19 public health restrictions, and it is now
expected that the centre will open in June/July 2021
(provisional - subject to any further restrictions and
works schedule).
| Page 22Historical T H E M I L I TA RY A RC H I V E S
The Military Archives The Military Service
(1916-1923) Pensions
The Military Archives is located at Cathal
Brugha Barracks in Rathmines, Dublin.
The Military Service Pensions Collection
project is Department of Defence led
Collection (MSPC)
It is the official place of deposit, under and run by its own dedicated team. More Since its first release of material on-line, over 100,000 files have been
the terms of the National Archives Act pension files will be released in 2021, processed, with approximately 30,000 scanned files currently fully
1986, for the archival records of the Irish adding to the substantial corpus of downloadable. Over 2 million individual pages have been digitised.
Defence Forces, Department of Defence, digitised primary sources already available The MSPC project is planning two releases of additional material for
and Army Pensions Board. The Military online. The team will continue to draw 2021. These collections are available through the military archive
Archives is located in a purpose-built attention to known and lesser known website here.
facility opened in 2016 as one of Ireland’s events for the year 1921 with a particular
This material can be drawn on for academic historical enquiry and
‘permanent reminders’ - legacy capital focus on the role and experiences of
broader public engagement in the context of local community
projects marking the centenary of the women who were active during the period
activities. A complementary public engagement programme is
1916 Easter Rising. While the Archives has and on their later lives.
also under development, comprising public talks, symposia, and
only been at its new site for a few years, its
Good primary sources are essential to publications.
history can be traced back as far as 1924.
understanding the shared and complex
The Military Archives is also planning for further releases of material
The Military Archives holds many past of the communities on the island
in 2021, including
collections central to the events of the of Ireland. The Decade of Centenaries
revolutionary decade 1913-1923. These has fostered a great increase in both the Court Martial Administration Files 1922-1924 (available in the
include the Military Service (1916-1923) quantity and accessibility of Irish archives. Military Archives Reading Room)
Pensions Collection, the Bureau of Military The history of Óglaigh na hÉireann, from The “Contemporary Documents series” of the Bureau of Military
History 1913-1923, and the Collins the foundation of the Volunteers to the History (1913-1921) is currently being digitised. It is planned
Papers 1918-1922. One of the Archives’ current Defence Forces, is inextricably
that this series will be available on the Military Archives website.
collections most directly relevant to linked with the story of modern Ireland.
the year 1921 are the Truce, Liaison and The Defence Organisation (Defence
Evacuation Papers, which originated from Forces and Department of Defence),
the Office of the Chief Liaison Officer, through its Military Archives, has proudly
established following the successful played a leading role in the preservation Conference on the Military
negotiation of the Truce between the IRA and accessibility of this history. Aspect of the Struggle for
and British Government.
Many resources are available on or Independence
website www.militaryarchives.ie, and
This online conference is scheduled for July 2021, hosted by the
many more are accessible by appointment
Military History Society of Ireland and the Military Archives,
at the Commandant Peter Young Reading
focusing on the military aspect of the Struggle for Independence,
Room. Appointments can be made through
postponed from 2020 due to COVID-19.
militaryarchives@defenceforces.ie or (01)
804 6457.
| Page 23You can also read
