Irish Republican History Museum

The Eileen Hickey Irish Republican History Museum stands in Conway Mill on Belfast’s Falls Road. The building itself is a former linen mill from 1842, now used by the local community. The museum opened in February 2007, ten years after Eileen Hickey began collecting exhibits. Hickey had served as an IRA prisoners’ officer in Armagh Women’s Prison and devoted herself to saving objects from the Troubles. The opening was led by Fr. Des Wilson and Noelle Ryan, marking the anniversary of her death. The collection includes handicrafts made by republican prisoners worldwide and weapons used during the conflict. Hundreds of families and individuals have donated items, some dating to the 1798 United Irishmen’s rebellion. A jacket worn by IRA volunteer Mairéad Farrell in prison is displayed alongside a cell door and bed from Armagh Women’s Prison. Posters, paintings and articles about republican figures form another part of the exhibits. Visitors find a library and interpretive centre supporting education and research projects. The displays tell the story of republican history through personal artefacts and prison items. The museum’s committee of volunteers runs the site, ensuring the material remains accessible to the public.