Roscommon County Museum facts for kids
| Músaem Chontae Ros Comáin | |
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| Location | The Square, Roscommon, Ireland |
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| Type | County museum |
| Public transit access | Mart Road bus stop |
The Roscommon County Museum (Irish: Músaem Chontae Ros Comáin) is a fantastic place to explore the history of County Roscommon in Ireland. It is managed by a group of history lovers called the County Roscommon Historical and Archaeological Society. You can find this museum inside an old building in Roscommon town that used to be a church.
Contents
History of the Museum Building
The building where the museum is located has a long history. It was built in 1863 and used to be a Presbyterian church. People also knew it as the Dr. John Harrison Memorial Hall. You can find it right on The Square in Roscommon town.
One special part of the building is a round window above the main door. This window has a unique star design. It was put there to remember the builders from Wales who helped create the church. The museum has been in this historic building since the early 1990s. It is run by volunteers who are passionate about sharing local history.
What You Can See at the Museum
The museum's collections tell the story of County Roscommon through many centuries. You can see some really old and interesting items here.
Ancient Artifacts
- 9th-century slab: One important piece is a stone slab from the 800s. It came from St Coman's Abbey, which was a very old religious site.
- Sheela na gig: There is also an ancient stone carving called a Sheela na gig. This unique carving came from Rahara church. These carvings are often found on old churches in Ireland and are a mystery to many historians.
- Replica of the Cross of Cong: You can see a copy of the famous Cross of Cong. This beautiful cross was originally made in County Roscommon.
- Shrine of Manchan: The museum also has a replica of the Shrine of Manchan. Both the Cross of Cong and the Shrine of Manchan were crafted by a very skilled artist named Irish: Mael Isu Bratain Ui Echach, also known as Mailisa MacEgan.
Outdoor Displays
Behind the museum building, there is an outdoor area. Here, you can see examples of old farm machines that were pulled by horses. It gives you a glimpse into how farming was done a long time ago.
Tourist Information
The building also hosts the Roscommon Tourist Information Office. This means you can get help and information about visiting the area right there at the museum!
