Davitt Saves GAA from Financial Ruin
It’s 1888 and the GAA decide to embark on a tour of the United States and Canada. The trip has a dual purpose.
Situated in the historic village of Straide, Co. Mayo, where Michael Davitt was born, raised, and is buried, our museum offers a fascinating insight into one of Ireland’s legendary historical figures. Whether you’re a dedicated history buff, culturally curious, a big GAA or Celtic supporter, or just keen to learn a lot more about a man whose name you’re so familiar with, the Michael Davitt Museum is a hidden gem that will leave your visit to Mayo forever etched in your mind.
READ MOREMichael Davitt Museum is located adjacent to the 13th century Straide Friary, a Norman structure which contains some of the finest medieval sculpture on the island of Ireland.
Read MoreThe Michael Davitt Museum contains an extensive collection of historical artefacts including original documents, photos, Land Acts, letters, postcards, and other items connected to Davitt’s life.
Read MoreThe Michael Davitt Museum and Straide Friary are located in the village of Straide, Co. Mayo. The Museum is located on the N58 road, connecting Castlebar (15km drive) and Foxford (8km).
Read moreThe staff at the Michael Davitt Museum are knowledgeable and friendly. We provide guided tours of our extensive exhibits of historical artefacts and the Friary. We look forward to your visit.
Read MoreCheck out our newly commissioned Michael Davitt Comic, illustrated by graphic artist Maeve Clancy.
Read MoreRather than just take our word for it (because we would say that wouldn’t we?), we’ve received lots of independent recognition, as well as great customer reviews which, say a lot more about us than we could ever tell you ourselves!
“An extraordinary place – worth a long detour”
“This is a little gem of a place. Just back from a visit to this wonderful wee museum. We had an amazing tour guide so informative. We had perfect weather so enjoyed the tour around the graveyard and the ruins. We would highly recommend this museum and for €8 great value for money.”
“What an unexpected treasure! My husband and I stopped here on a whim after visiting the ruins of the nearby Ballylahan Castle, and we’re so glad we did! One of the docents, Mark, gave us such an interesting, informative and entertaining tour.”
“We visited here last Sunday. Staff were very friendly and knowledgeable. There is a plethora of interesting items on display many of them donated by the Davitt family. Highly recommend this tour.”
“Our family including our two daughters had a brilliant visit to the museum. Michael Davitt is a really under appreciated and under represented figure in Irish history and the museum and the staff there really do his contributions to historical and social change a great service. “
“We stopped at this lovely museum in the Irish countryside and were thoroughly pleased with the entire experience. Mary and Mark were very knowledgeable and great at sharing their knowledge with us. “
“Plenty to interest Irish history enthusiasts here, and the friendliness and enthusiasm of the guides is second to none. “
“Our tour guide, Mark, was warm, welcoming, funny and extremely knowledgeable. His passion for his subject shone through. We learnt a huge amount about the life and times of Michael Davitt. This is a little gem of a museum with many authentic artefacts donated by Davitt’s family.”
Our museum is a wonderful school tour destination, where children can learn more about the life of an icon of Irish history. We welcome groups of all sizes.
Read MoreIt’s 1888 and the GAA decide to embark on a tour of the United States and Canada. The trip has a dual purpose.
Today, August the 16th, marks the 142nd anniversary of the foundation of the Land League.
Davitt left prison with intentions of creating a closer alliance in the Fenian…