Write a commentNewry Museum’s new temporary exhibition ‘Local Impacts of the First World War’ has been officially opened by the Deputy Mayor of Newry and Mourne, Councillor David Taylor.
The period 1914 - 1918 was a pivotal one in world history. Old empires collapsed, international boundaries were redrawn and Ireland was among those nations that saw dramatic political and social change.
The exhibition looks at the issues that affected Newry and Mourne politically, socially and economically during this tumultuous time, as well as looking at specific issues such recruitment and remembrance.
Visitors can see artefacts from the period including embroidered silk postcards, medals and uniforms, with the centrepiece of the exhibition, Newry’s Roll of Honour.
This document was produced to encourage recruitment, emphasising that Newry had recruited so strongly at the outset of war, and at the same time publicly honouring those who had gone to serve.
The exhibition illustrates how the First World War affected the lives of hundreds of ordinary people in the area either through recruitment, experience of warfare and bereavement and loss.
Speaking at the launch Cllr. Taylor said “We are fortunate in having such great support from local people as the success of an exhibition such as this is dependent on donations and loans of material from its community”
Museum Curator, Noreen Cunningham said “the large number of documents, photographs and objects, many of which are on loan from local people, is an indication of how much the First World War still resonates with us today”.
‘Local Impacts of the First World War’ is open to the public from 30th May.
The Museum is open seven days a week and entrance is free of charge. For information on opening hours, events, services please telephone 028 3031 3182 / 3178 or visit www.bagenalscastle.com
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