Film Screening: Ag Trasnú An Atlantaigh Dhuibh / Crossing the Black Atlantic

Film Screening: Ag Trasnú An Atlantaigh Dhuibh / Crossing the Black Atlantic
🗓️ Saturday, 23 August 2025 | 1:00 PM
📍 Mick Lally Theatre, Druid Lane, Galway

As part of the Peadar O’Dowd Memorial Day and National Heritage Week, Galway Civic Trust presents a special screening of Ag Trasnú An Atlantaigh Dhuibh / Crossing the Black Atlantic, a compelling bilingual documentary directed by Des Kilbane of DesK Productions.

This 2017 film tells the powerful true story of Tom Molineaux, a former slave who became one of the world’s greatest bare-knuckle boxers. After fighting his way to freedom in the United States, Molineaux crossed the Atlantic to challenge the English champion, Tom Cribb, in two historic matches still remembered as among the most controversial in boxing history.

Though once admired by British elites, Molineaux’s life ended far from the spotlight. In 1818, destitute and in failing health, he was found on the streets of Galway and taken in by fellow freedmen—drummers of the 77th Regiment. Despite their kindness, Molineaux died on August 4 and was buried in a pauper’s grave in Mervue.

This moving documentary sheds light on a largely forgotten figure whose extraordinary journey spans continents, cultures, and centuries. It also echoes Galway’s lesser-known connections to the African diaspora, themes close to the heart of the late Peadar O’Dowd.

This talk forms part of a special day-long programme of heritage events presented by Galway Civic Trust / Dúchas na Gaillimhe in honour of the late Peadar O’Dowd (1941–2024) — esteemed local historian, author, educator, and founding member of the Trust. Peadar’s lifelong dedication to preserving and sharing Galway’s rich history has left an enduring legacy, and this commemorative series reflects the breadth of his interests, from medieval archaeology to waterways, migration, music, and community memory.

The full programme includes a range of lectures, performances, tours, and cultural activities at the Mick Lally Theatre and the Hall of the Red Earl, both located on Druid Lane in Galway’s Latin Quarter. The event brings together local historians, artists, and community voices in a shared celebration of Galway’s heritage — past, present, and evolving.

We gratefully acknowledge the support of our sponsors:
Kavanagh’s SuperValu – kavanaghgroup.ie/supervalu
Druid Theatre – druid.ie
Galway City Council – Local Community Festival Grants – galwaycity.ie