Muriel Gahan Museum and Exhibition Center

Muriel Gahan was one of the ICA’s most prolific members and played a vital role in the purchase and set up of An Grianán.

The Muriel Gahan Museum  and Exhibition Center was officially opened by Muriel herself on the 2nd September 1985 in An Grianán, displaying her collection of crafts and historical items. Her collection was said to be so vast is was stored under friend’s beds and in garages before being brought to An Grianán

The Museum and its displays have moved around An Grainán a number of times but it is now housed in the horticultural college. The new layout of the museum is set up like a house, so not only do you get to see the items displayed, you also feel as if you are taking a step back in time.

The museum is still the home of Muriel’s vast collection of historical crafts and items as well as other crafts and items donated to An Grianán by members and friends, along with  other items owned by An Grianán itself.

My favourite item is the Freezolux Refrigerator, one of the first refrigerator’s available in Ireland. The original instructions are also in the museum, which is pretty impressive for such an old piece of equipment. I was also captivated by the lace clothing, the pieces are very intricate and beautiful.

It is definitely worth the visit as it not only houses the history of the ICA and An Grianán but other historical items that display how people carried about their daily lives in Ireland's past.

For more information contact An Grianán at admin@an-grianan.ie or 041 9822119

 Also check out Muriel Gahans book "Deeds Not Words"