Exploring Cork’s Past: Historian Visit and City Walking Tour

SHSS was delighted to welcome historian Gerry White recently for an engaging and insightful lecture titled “1920 – A Year of War and Revolution in Cork.” Students and staff alike were captivated by his depth of knowledge, particularly his focus on the human stories behind Cork’s turbulent past.

To build on this learning, our 5th and 6th Year History students took part in a walking tour of Cork City. The tour began at Elizabeth Fort, where our guide, Jacob, shared fascinating stories about the fort’s origins in 1601 and what life was like under British rule.

The group then joined Ms O’Donovan for a custom-designed tour, “Cork – If the Walls Could Talk,” which offered students a fresh perspective on the city they thought they knew. They visited iconic landmarks, uncovered hidden heritage sites, and stood at the very location of the Burning of Cork, bringing Gerry White’s lecture vividly to life.

The day concluded at Cork Public Museum in Fitzgerald’s Park. Here, guide Jessica spoke about the diverse career pathways in museum and heritage work and highlighted remarkable artefacts on display — including Terence MacSwiney’s distinctive hat. Students also had the privilege of seeing a rare original 1916 Proclamation, rescued from the time of the Easter Rising.

It was an eye-opening and meaningful exploration of Cork’s 20th-century history — with a well-deserved coffee break enjoyed by all!