Dunmanway Historical Society

Preserving and presenting our rich heritage for future generations

Discover the fascinating history of Dunmanway from 1693 to present day at our Heritage Centre.

Visit Heritage Centre

Guardians of Dunmanway's Heritage

Our Mission

Established in 2003, the Dunmanway Historical Society is dedicated to preserving and presenting the town's rich heritage for future generations. We maintain an extensive collection of artifacts, documents, and stories that chronicle the evolution of our market town from its establishment in 1693 to the present day.

Through our Heritage Centre, educational programs, and community engagement, we ensure that the stories of Dunmanway's people, industries, and traditions continue to inspire and inform both residents and visitors alike.

Preservation

Carefully maintaining artifacts, documents, and photographs for future generations.

Education

Sharing our history through exhibitions, talks, and educational programs.

Research

Supporting genealogical research and historical studies of the region.

Community

Collecting and preserving local stories, memories, and family histories.

Visit Our Heritage Centre

Free Admission

Opening Hours

Monday - Friday: 10:30 AM - 5:00 PM

Saturday - Sunday: By appointment

Contact Us

Phone: 023 8856508

Email: info@dunmanwayhistorical.ie

Location

Main Street, Dunmanway
Co. Cork, Ireland

What You'll Discover

  • Sam Maguire's birth and death certificates
  • Padraig Pearse's last letter to his mother
  • Extensive collection of historical photographs
  • World War I memorial and records of 43 local volunteers
  • Railway history - commemorating the last train in 1961
  • Flax and linen industry artifacts from the 1800s
  • Local folklore and stories, including Duffy's Circus tales
  • Genealogical resources for family history research

Our Collections & Exhibits

Notable Figures

Explore the lives of Dunmanway's most famous sons and daughters, including GAA legend Sam Maguire and the connections to Padraig Pearse.

  • Sam Maguire memorabilia
  • Padraig Pearse documents
  • Local heroes and personalities

Industrial Heritage

Discover Dunmanway's role as a center of flax and linen production in the 1800s, and how industry shaped our town.

  • Linen production artifacts
  • Trade and commerce records
  • Market town development

Military History

Honor the memory of the 43 local men who made the ultimate sacrifice in World War I, and explore our military connections.

  • WWI volunteer records
  • Military medals and honors
  • Personal letters and diaries

Transport & Commerce

Journey through the golden age of rail travel and discover how transport links shaped Dunmanway's development.

  • Railway photographs and tickets
  • Last train commemoration (1961)
  • Market and fair records

Dunmanway Through Time

1693

Town Established

Dunmanway is officially established as a market town, laying the foundation for centuries of commerce and community.

1800s

Industrial Boom

The town becomes a major center for flax and linen production, bringing prosperity and growth to the region.

1914-1918

World War I

43 brave men from Dunmanway volunteer for service in WWI. Their sacrifice is forever remembered in our Heritage Centre.

1961

End of the Railway Era

The last train departs from Dunmanway station in April, marking the end of an era in local transport history.

2003

Historical Society Founded

The Dunmanway Historical Society is established to preserve and present the town's rich heritage for future generations.

Stories & Folklore

Dunmanway Community Mural

Featured Story: The Circus Elephant

One of Dunmanway's most beloved tales involves Duffy's Circus, which used to winter in the town. Local folklore tells of an elephant that once attempted to enter a house on the Main Street, much to the surprise of the residents!

This and many other colorful stories from our past are preserved in our Heritage Centre, where visitors can explore the quirky, heartwarming, and sometimes mysterious tales that make Dunmanway unique.

Discover more stories at the Heritage Centre →
Historic Pile Bridge

Local Legends

From ghostly tales at Pile Bridge to heroic deeds of local champions, discover the legends that have been passed down through generations.

23 stories collected
Historic Stone Cottage

Family Histories

Explore the stories of Dunmanway families, their trades, traditions, and contributions to our community through the centuries.

47 family histories
Sam Maguire Monument

Historic Events

Learn about the events that shaped our town, from the establishment in 1693 to the last train departure in 1961.

31 documented events

Recently Added to Our Collection

October 2024

The Great Storm of 1894

Newly discovered diary entries reveal the impact of a devastating storm...

September 2024

The Dunmanway Linen Mills

Oral history from mill workers' descendants brings new insights...

August 2024

Market Day Memories

A collection of photographs and stories from the 1950s market days...

Your Story Matters

Every family has a story. Every memory adds to our collective history. Share your Dunmanway story with us and help preserve our town's living heritage for future generations.

Submit Your Story

Get Involved

Become a Member

Join the Historical Society and support our mission to preserve Dunmanway's heritage. Members receive:

  • Free access to special events
  • Quarterly newsletter
  • Research assistance
  • Voting rights at AGM
Join Now

Volunteer

Help us preserve and share our history. Volunteer opportunities include:

  • Archive cataloging
  • Heritage Centre guides
  • Event assistance
  • Research projects
Volunteer

Donate Artifacts

Have historical items or documents? Consider donating them to ensure they're preserved for future generations.

  • Photographs
  • Documents
  • Tools and artifacts
  • Family memorabilia
Contact Us

Research & Resources

Genealogy Services

Trace your family roots with our extensive records including:

  • Church records
  • Census data
  • Gravestone inscriptions
  • Local directories

Educational Materials

Resources for students and researchers:

  • Local history guides
  • Primary sources
  • Photographic collections
  • Oral history recordings

Publications

Our published works include:

  • Annual historical journal
  • Walking tour guides
  • Family history booklets
  • Special exhibitions catalogs

Contact Us

Heritage Centre

Address: Main Street, Dunmanway, Co. Cork

Phone: 023 8856508

Email: info@dunmanwayhistorical.ie

Opening Hours:
Monday - Friday: 10:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Saturday - Sunday: By appointment

Get in Touch