Founded in 1884, the Gaelic Athletic Association (GAA) is a huge part of the Irish consciousness and plays an influential role in Irish society that extends far beyond the sports. In popular imagination and experience, the GAA is often evoked in terms of its objects from medals passed down from generation to generation and jerseys worn in All-Ireland finals, to more unique items, such as Michael Cusack’s blackthorn stick.

Join cultural historian Siobhán Doyle, author of A History of the GAA in 100 Objects (2022), as she shares the stories behind some of the GAA’s most iconic objects, with a special focus on Connacht and Galway.

Among the Galway objects featured in her fascinating book are a ‘Citie of the Tribes’ banner – carried in defiance of British authorities on Gaelic Sunday in August 1918 – and ‘Colie K’s Hole in the Ceiling,’ a dent left in the roof of Taaffe’s Bar in Galway when Pádraic Joyce scored during the 1998 All-Ireland Football Final, which prompted an exuberant celebration.

Hailing from Co. Wexford, Siobhán Doyle is a cultural historian and works in the National Museum of Ireland. She holds a PhD in Museum Studies from Technological University Dublin and has lectured in Design History.

The event is free of charge, but advance booking is essential as places are limited. For further details or to make a booking, please contact the Museum by calling (091) 532460 or emailing  Museum@GalwayCity.ie

Suitable for adults and young people aged 12+