University of Galway Launches Digital Archive of Long Kesh Prison Journals

A digital archive featuring handmade prison journals from the Long Kesh internment camp has been launched by the University of Galway. This unique collection provides valuable insights into the lives of republican prisoners during a turbulent period in Northern Irish history.

The archive includes journals and photographs from the mid-1970s, donated by Paddy McMenamin, who was interned at Long Kesh from 1974 to 1976. Originally from west Belfast and now residing in Oranmore, County Galway, McMenamin is a history graduate who contributed to several republican prison journals, including Misneach, An Sioladoir, and Faoi Glas. He also served as the editor of An Fuascailteoir.

Significance of the Collection

The journals, which feature diverse cover artwork, articles on history and politics, poems, and Irish language lessons, were smuggled out of Long Kesh. McMenamin’s donation to the University of Galway Library is a significant contribution that offers a “unique perspective” into the experiences of those incarcerated at the camp. According to the university, this collection serves as a vital lens into the daily life within the internment camp.

McMenamin expressed his satisfaction in preserving the journals, stating, “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.”

Preservation for Future Generations

University librarian Monica Crump emphasized the importance of this collection, noting, “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.” She expressed delight in seeing the full collection catalogued and digitised, making it accessible to a broader audience.

Dr. Barry Houlihan, archivist at the University of Galway Library, described the collection as “an important collection” that will aid in educating future generations about the experiences of prisoners during the Troubles. He highlighted that such archives are crucial for preserving the memories and experiences of those directly affected by the conflict.

The digitised Long Kesh Prison Journals can be accessed through the University of Galway Library Repository at https://digital.library.universityofgalway.ie/p/ms/categories/paddy-mcmenamin. This initiative not only enriches the university’s existing collections but also contributes to the broader understanding of Northern Ireland’s complex history.