Celebrating 2018: The Year of Sligo Gaol
2018 is a very significant year for Sligo Gaol. Over the 7th - 9th September, Friends of Sligo Gaol held a hugely successful conference weekend to to mark the 200th anniversary of Ireland's only surviving polygonal prison, rich in history and heritage.
A diverse selection of topics, ranging from the Spike Island Excavations to Dark Tourism, centring on Ireland's historic prisons was discussed by leading experts in the field of crime and punishment in 19th and 20th century Ireland. Speakers included Dr Richard McMahon; Dr Ciara Breathnach; Tim Carey; Dr Geraldine Curtin; Dr Barra O’ Donnabhain; Dr Laura McAtackney & Dr Gillian O’Brien.
The weekend celebrations will included bespoke tours of Sligo Gaol, the launch of our children’s book and the unveiling of a portrait of Michael Collins, the jail’s most famous prisoner.
Friday 7th Sept:
Conference Opening & Book Launch
Launch of “My Tale Untold”, a beautifully Illustrated children's book set in 1839 Sligo Gaol, produced by Friends of Sligo Gaol and illustrator Wayne O'Connor.
The book was launched by acclaimed artist and writer of children's fiction PJ Lynch, Ireland's Laureate na nÓg for 2017-2018.
The conference was officially launched on the evening by the Mayor og Sligo, Councillor Rosaleen O'Grady
Friday 7th Sept:
Conference Opening & Book Launch
Launch of “Bridget’s Tale”, an Illustrated graphic novel set in Sligo Gaol
Saturday 8th Sept: Conference
Crime and Punishment in 19th and 20th Century Ireland
Saturday' conference offered a diverse selection of topics, ranging from the Spike Island Excavations to Dark Tourism, centering on Ireland's historic prisons and discussed by leading experts in the field of crime and punishment in 19th and 20th century Ireland.
Speakers included Dr Richard McMahon; Dr Ciara Breathnach; Tim Carey; Dr Geraldine Curtin; Dr Barra O’ Donnabhain; Dr Laura McAtackney & Dr Gillian O’Brien
Sunday 9th Sept: Michael Collins Commemoration
The final day of the conference offered a treat for all Michael Collins fans.
The famous figure was an inmate in the jail 100 years ago. To mark the occasion, especially themed Michael Collins tours were on offer.
The day concluded with the unveiling of a specially commissioned portrait of Michael Collins by local artist Emma Stroude, artist in residence for Friends of Sligo Gaol.
