University of Galway Unveils Unique Long Kesh Prison Journals

The University of Galway has launched a digital archive featuring handmade prison journals from the Long Kesh internment camp, offering a rare glimpse into life within the facility during the mid-1970s. This collection, provided by former inmate Paddy McMenamin, includes journals created between 1974 and 1976, capturing the experiences of republican prisoners during a tumultuous period in Irish history.

McMenamin, who is originally from west Belfast and currently resides in Oranmore, County Galway, contributed to several republican publications while interned, including Misneach, An Sioladoir, and Faoi Glas. He also served as the editor of An Fuascailteoir, which translates to “the emancipator.” The journals not only showcase diverse cover artwork but also contain writings on history and politics, poetry, and lessons in the Irish language.

These significant documents were smuggled out of Long Kesh and have been donated to the University of Galway Library, where they are now preserved as a vital historical resource. The university emphasized that the collection provides a unique perspective into the daily lives of prisoners at Long Kesh, offering insights into their experiences during the Troubles.

Preservation of History

In expressing his gratitude, McMenamin stated, “As a University of Galway graduate in English and history, it is a pleasure to donate this collection of original Long Kesh Cage papers to University of Galway Library as a primary source for students studying and researching 20th century Irish history. It is a privilege for me to see the journals safely preserved for posterity within the university.”

University librarian Monica Crump remarked on the importance of this collection, saying, “We were honoured to be entrusted to hold this truly unique collection and preserve it for future generations, so that scholars can get a glimpse into life in Long Kesh and indeed in Northern Ireland during the Troubles.” Crump also expressed delight in making the full collection accessible online, broadening the audience for this crucial historical material.

Dr. Barry Houlihan, an archivist at the University of Galway Library, highlighted the collection’s significance in educating future generations about the experiences of prisoners during the conflict. He noted, “It allows us to study and understand a difficult time in our island’s history, and reminds us why such archives from Northern Ireland, along with those already housed at University of Galway Library, are vital to preserving the memories and experiences of those directly affected by, during, and after the conflict.”

The digitised Long Kesh Prison Journals are now available through the University of Galway Library Repository, providing scholars and the public with an opportunity to engage with this important facet of Irish history. For more information, the collection can be accessed at https://digital.library.universityofgalway.ie/p/ms/categories/paddy-mcmenamin.