
authentic storytelling.
At Tarbert Bridewell, wander through prison cells, a 19th century court room and exercise yard. All are welcome to our exhibition which details the trials and tribulations of riveting moments in Irish history; the Famine, the rise of the Land League and the beginnings of Irish nationalism. Also a part of Tarbert is a room dedicated to Thomas Mac Greevey, the poety, art and literary critic and director of the National Gallery of Ireland, who was born in Tarbert.
Learn of his life and many more.

Uncover the stories of Tarbert Bridewell
Mary McCarty
She was a mother, and a widow. Unable to support her family, she stole to feed them. Sent to Tarbert she was to be deported to Australia, never to see her children again.


Mary McCarty
She was a mother, and a widow. Unable to support her family, she stole to feed them. Sent to Tarbert she was to be deported to Australia, never to see her children again.

John Connolly
He was the Keeper of Tarbert Bridewell, as had been his father and his grandfather before him. He was paid £10 a year, a small fortune compared to those impoverished around him.

John Connolly
He was the Keeper of Tarbert Bridewell, as has been his father and his grandfather before him. He was paid £10 a year, a small fortune compared to those impoverished around him.
Thomas O’Connor
He was 18 years old and he escaped. His desperation was so great he climbed a 25 foot wall in his bare feet. Learn the story of his escape at Tarbert Bridewell.

Thomas O’Connor
He was 18 years old and he escaped. His desperation was so great he climbed a 25 foot wall in his bare feet. Learn the story of his escape at Tarbert Bridewell.
