Handkerchief belonging to Michael Collins goes on display in Cork

Fri, 18 Oct, 2024 - 09:05

Rachel Lysaght

A recently-acquired 1920s artefact is to be added to the permanent display at the Michael Collins House Museum in Clonakilty.

The linen handkerchief, acquired by Cork County Council, was found in Collins’ pocket at the time of his death, and was gifted by his brother Seán to General Seán MacMahon, then Quarter Master General of the Irish Free State Army.

The artefact is accompanied by a short note dated August 31, 1922, that reads: “A Cara, accept enclosed as souvenir of Miceál — in his pocket at time of death. Seán Ó Coileáin.”

The linen handkerchief, along with the letter from Seán Collins, will go on display and be available to view free of charge in the Michael Collins House reception area for the remainder of the year.

The piece will then make its way into the museum’s permanent display.

Fianna Fáil councillor Joe Carroll, the mayor of Co Cork, said: “Shortly after his death, Michael Collins’ siblings gave several of his close friends and colleagues similar personal items to him by.

“Luckily, a number of these items have found their way into the Michael Collins House collection, including the necktie worn by Collins during the Anglo-Irish Treaty negotiations and a small personal prayer book, among other items.

“These items are hugely important for the museum in telling the personal story of Michael Collins and in bringing history to life.”

The piece will be added to the growing collection of memorabilia at the museum, which offers guided tours, interactive displays, audio visuals, and a range of artefacts to explore.

Welcoming between 20,000-30,000 visitors annually, the museum has become a must-see for visitors to the region as well as providing an important cultural hub and economic driver for the local Clonakilty community.

Michael Collins House Museum opens all- year-round from Tuesday to Saturday, with opening hours of 10am to 5pm.