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Michael Davitt Museum: A Tribute to Ireland's Land Reformer

Discover the life and legacy of Michael Davitt, founder of the Irish National Land League, in his birthplace of Straide, Co. Mayo.

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The Michael Davitt Museum in Straide, Co. Mayo, commemorates the life and work of Michael Davitt, founder of the Irish National Land League. Housed in a beautifully restored pre-Penal church, the museum showcases Davitt's impact on land reform and social justice in Ireland and beyond.

A brief summary to Michael Davitt Museum

Local tips

  • Allow 1 to 1.5 hours to fully explore the museum and grounds.
  • Take advantage of the free parking available on-site.
  • Visit the adjacent Straide Friary to see the medieval sculptures and Davitt's final resting place.
  • Ask for your free pass to the Céide Fields Visitor Centre before you leave the museum.
  • Enjoy a picnic on the grounds of Straide Friary, adjacent to the museum.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    The Michael Davitt Museum is accessible via Bus Éireann route 52, which runs between Galway, Tuam, Claremorris, Castlebar, Ballina, and Foxford. Ask the driver to stop at Straide. From the bus stop, the museum is a short walk. Bus fares vary depending on the distance traveled; a short trip within the region typically costs between €3-€7.

  • Driving

    The Michael Davitt Museum is located in Straide, Co. Mayo, on the N58 between Ballyvary and Foxford. From Castlebar, take the N5 east and turn left onto the N58 at Ballyvary. From Ballina/Foxford, take the N58 south towards Ballyvary/Castlebar. Ample free parking is available on-site.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are available in nearby towns such as Castlebar and Foxford. A taxi from Castlebar to the Michael Davitt Museum (approximately 15km) will cost around €24-€29. Local taxi services include Breaffy Cabs (+353 85 712 1914) and Triple A Taxis (+353 94 906 7777).

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Discover more about Michael Davitt Museum

Nestled in the historic village of Straide, County Mayo, the Michael Davitt Museum offers a compelling journey into the life and legacy of one of Ireland's most influential figures, Michael Davitt. Born, evicted, and ultimately buried in Straide, Davitt dedicated his life to advocating for land reform and social justice, founding the Irish National Land League and inspiring movements worldwide. The museum itself is located in a beautifully restored pre-Penal church, a building of significant historical value where Davitt was baptized. The exhibits feature an extensive collection of artifacts, including original documents, letters, photos, and Land Acts, providing a rich insight into Davitt's life, work, and the social and political context of 19th-century Ireland. An audio-visual presentation further details Davitt's story, from his early years in Ireland and Lancashire to his career as a Member of Parliament. Visitors can explore Davitt's personal possessions, such as his walking stick and rosary beads, and view historical newspapers and handwritten letters. The museum also highlights Davitt's international influence, particularly his impact on Mahatma Gandhi's movement of peaceful resistance in India. Adjacent to the museum lies the historic Straide Friary, a 13th-century Norman structure with notable medieval sculptures, and the final resting place of Michael Davitt. A visit to the Michael Davitt Museum offers a comprehensive and engaging experience, providing a deeper understanding of Irish history and the ongoing struggle for social justice.

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