University of Galway Unveils Digital Archive of Unique Prison Journals

The University of Galway has launched a digital archive featuring hand-made prison journals from the Long Kesh internment camp, providing a distinctive insight into life within the facility during the mid-1970s. The collection, which includes journals and photographs, was made possible through the contributions of Paddy McMenamin, who was interned at Long Kesh from 1974 to 1976.

Originally from west Belfast, McMenamin, now residing in Oranmore, Co Galway, is a history graduate who actively participated in several republican prison journals while at the camp. His editorial work included contributions to publications such as Misneach, An Sioladoir, and Faoi Glas, as well as serving as the editor of An Fuascailteoir, which translates to “the emancipator.” The journals contain a variety of content, including cover artwork, articles on history and politics, poetry, and lessons in the Irish language, all of which were smuggled out of Long Kesh.

Significance of the Collection

The University of Galway has described the collection as offering “a unique perspective” into the lives of republican prisoners, serving as a lens through which to view daily experiences in the internment camp. McMenamin has expressed his satisfaction in donating these original documents to the university library as a primary resource for students and researchers studying 20th century Irish history. He stated, “It is a privilege for me to see the journals safely preserved for posterity within the university.”

University librarian Monica Crump emphasized the importance of the collection, stating, “We were honoured to be entrusted to hold this truly unique collection and preserve it for future generations.” She expressed her delight in making the journals accessible online, allowing a broader audience to engage with the realities of the Troubles in Northern Ireland.

Dr. Barry Houlihan, an archivist with the University of Galway Library, highlighted the educational value of the collection. He noted that it plays a crucial role in helping future generations understand the experiences of prisoners during the Troubles. “It allows us to study and understand a difficult time in our island’s history,” he remarked, underscoring the importance of preserving the memories of those directly affected by the conflict.

Accessing the Archive

The digitized Long Kesh Prison Journals are now available to the public through the University of Galway Library Repository. Interested individuals can access the collection at University of Galway Library Repository.

This initiative not only enriches the university’s existing archives, which include collections from notable figures such as Brendan Duddy, Kevin Boyle, and Maurice Hayes, but also stands as a testament to the ongoing efforts to document and understand a complex period in Irish history. Through this digital archive, the University of Galway continues to contribute to the preservation and study of significant historical narratives.