Michael Davitt was and is a key figure in Irish history. He was a man of the people; a good man with a strong social conscience, who dedicated his life to making life better for all those who didn’t have a voice, and to ensuring that culture became embedded into the fabric of society.
For this reason, the Michael Davitt Museum is much more than just a history museum; it’s a social and cultural treasure trove, containing fascinating artefacts along with many of Michael’s personal possessions including original documents, photos, original Land Acts, letters, postcards, posters, rosary beads, and much more besides.
For added authenticity, and to help you become immersed in the story of Michael Davitt, our museum is housed in the magnificently restored pre-penal church that was used before the enactment of the 1690s Penal laws, and which lies adjacent to the 13th Century remains of the historic Straide Friary, founded in 1249.
Michael Davitt, who was born and raised right here in Straide, is buried in the cemetery behind the Museum, which also happens to be the final resting place of Anne Deane, President of the Ladies Land League.
We are privileged to be in a position to tell the story of Michael Davitt to visitors, like you from all over the World.