Journal

An exhibition of mixed media artworks exploring emigration from Ireland to America after the Famine of the 1840’s to the 1930’s. Some of the artworks were based on the Hurley Papers held at Cork City Archives and the Curtiss papers which I read whilst on a Fulbright scholarship to America. Both  are collections of emigrant letters. Other research was conducted at the Taniment Labor History Library, New York University and Ellis Island Warehouse, New York City.

59 emigrant ships lost

Emigrant's Letter and envelope

Emigrant's envelope

Emigrant's Bag

Emigrant passport (based on original located at Ellis Island warehouse)

Irish squatters -Central park 1880. The Irish were referred to as either 'shanty' or 'Lace Curtain Irish'

On board a coffin ship

Emigrant Farewell

Mother Jones and her boys

Prison Register with prison menus from 1847 and martial law passport