The National Museum of Ireland, located in Turlough Park, is a treasure trove of Irish history and culture, offering visitors a unique and captivating experience. This summer, the museum is showcasing a diverse range of artifacts that will surprise and delight visitors of all ages. Here are five fascinating exhibits that highlight the museum's rich collection:
Skateboards and Sporting History: The museum currently displays a rare skateboard, one of only 20 produced for the European Street Skating Championships in 1991. This skateboard holds a special place in Irish sporting history, as it was awarded as a prize in a promotional competition sponsored by Sqeez orange juice. The skateboard is displayed alongside the photographic exhibition 'Róidín', which explores rural Ireland through the lens of skateboarding culture. This unique combination of art and sports history is a captivating experience for visitors, offering a fresh perspective on Ireland's cultural heritage.
The Majestic Brown Bear: One of the most talked-about exhibits is an impressive brown bear specimen from the Natural History Collections in Dublin. Named Beir Bua, this female bear from Alaska has captured the imagination of visitors. The bear is on display as part of the exhibition 'The Murmur of Bees', which runs until September 22. The bear's presence adds a sense of wonder and awe to the museum, providing a unique opportunity for visitors to engage with a creature that is both fascinating and powerful.
Soapbox Dreams: A brightly colored red soapbox racer is on public display for the first time this summer, transporting visitors back to the exciting era of soapbox derbies in the 1950s. The display explores the popularity of these events, where young competitors raced homemade 'gravity cars' with thousands of spectators in attendance. The car on display, driven by Joseph Moran, competed in the Connacht & Mayo Soap Box Trials in June 1956, attracting up to 4,000 spectators. This exhibit offers a nostalgic glimpse into Ireland's sporting and social history, showcasing the ambition, ingenuity, and community spirit of mid-century Ireland.
Asian Hornet Awareness: As concerns grow about the spread of invasive species, the museum displays an Asian hornet as part of the 'The Murmur of Bees' exhibition. The Asian hornet poses a significant threat to honeybees and other native pollinators, and the public is encouraged to report any sightings. The specimen on display is particularly significant, as it was the first Asian hornet ever collected in Ireland in 2021. This exhibit serves as a reminder of the importance of environmental conservation and the potential impact of invasive species on our ecosystems.
Antique Veterinary Objects: A fascinating collection of antique veterinary instruments and animal husbandry equipment offers a glimpse into the everyday work of vets in Ireland decades ago. The exhibition emerged from a partnership between the National Museum of Ireland and the Veterinary Department of Mayo County Council. Veterinary officer Cathal Walsh and his colleagues assembled an important collection of historic veterinary objects, which was subsequently donated to the museum. This exhibit provides a unique insight into the history of veterinary medicine in Ireland, showcasing the tools and techniques used by vets in the past.
The National Museum of Ireland, Turlough Park House & Gardens, offers free admission to its exhibition galleries, which are open Tuesday to Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday to Monday from 1 to 5 p.m. Visitors can explore these fascinating artifacts and immerse themselves in Ireland's rich cultural heritage, all while enjoying a captivating and educational experience.
