MICHAEL COLLINS HOUSE
history of the fight for Irish independence
Michael Collins House, Clonakilty is a museum dedicated to Irish patriot and revolutionary hero, Michael Collins. Visit to learn about the “Big Fella” himself, his life story entwined with the history of the fight for Irish independence. The museum is presented in an accessible manner through guided tours, interactive displays, audio visuals, artefacts and more, bringing the history to life for all the family. For those looking to delve into the history further information boards, history talks and our highly qualified tour guides will more than happily engage in debate and answer any questions you may have.
7 EMMET SQUARE, CLONAKILTY
LOCATED IN HISTORIC GEORGIAN SQUARE
The museum is based at 7 Emmet Square, Clonakilty, the only planned Georgian square outside of Dublin. Initially conceived by the Clonakilty Town Council in 2012, the building was restored and fitted in period decor. The museum explores Collins life but also looks at local revolutionary patriots such as Tadhg an Asna who led the local forces into battle in 1798 and the unrepentant Fenian, Jeremiah O’Donovan Rossa, both of whom influenced the young Collins.
OUR LOCATION
Directions from Clonakilty
Directions from Clonakilty, Main Street (Pearse St.)- Travel west to the end of Pease Street, Turn left at end of Pearse St at Bank of Ireland onto Bridge St. , continue straight, pass the statue of Michael Collins and directly across Emmet Sq to Michael Collins House, No. 7 Emmet Sq Clonakilty.
Our mission
Our mission is to honour the memory of Michael Collins and to bring his story and the story of Irish independence to as many people as we can by creating an enjoyable, entertaining and educational experience for everyone.
FAQ
Michael Collins House is museum located at No.7 Emmet Sq. Clonakilty, Co.Cork. The museum looks at the struggle for Irish independence from its beginnings leading up to and including the 1798 rebellions all the way through the ages to Michael Collins death towards the end of the Civil War in 1922. The museum is suitable for all ages using interactive displays, audio visuals, information boards and artefacts to bring the story to life.
No. While local folklore would previously have said No.7, where the museum is situated, was the building in which Michael Collins lived, we now know this to be untrue. While we do know Michael Collins lived on Emmet Sq between 1903 and 1905 we cannot conclusively say exactly which house he lived in. Unfortunately our academic research, as of yet, has found a lack of reliable records that stand up to scrutiny and can conclusively confirm the exact building he lived.
The museum is presented in a way which is suitable for all ages and levels of interest. With guided tours, activity sheets, audio visuals and interactive displays even the youngest of children will be entertained as well as educated on Michael Collins and Irish revolutionary history.
The museum tour is self guided so it depends on you how long the tour takes. In general, the tour takes a minimum of 1 hour but can take longer depending on your interest.
No, there is no need to book ahead for individuals however it is recommended that groups book in advance to ensure the best possible experience. Bookings can be made through bookins@www.michaelcollinshouse.ie or on 023-8858676.
There is some free on-street parking located around MCH. The nearest carpark is located just off Emmet Square at the Church of the Immaculate Conception and a number of other carparks are within walking distance such as Kent St. There are disabled parking spaces available in most of these areas.
Currently there is no coach parking in the immediate vicinity of the museum but there is plenty of public parking around the area to allow for set down and disembarking safely.
Yes, the museum is fully wheelchair accessible.
Yes all our displays are suitable for the deaf/hard of hearing.
