Hall of the Red Earl Exhibition Space to be Renamed the “Peadar O’Dowd Gallery”

Friday, 24 July 2026 | 3:00 PM
Hall of the Red Earl, Custom House, Druid Lane, Galway

Galway Civic Trust / Dúchas na Gaillimhe is honoured to announce that the exhibition room at the Hall of the Red Earl will be officially renamed the Peadar O’Dowd Gallery at a special ceremony on Friday, 24 July 2026 at 3:00 PM.

The event will be officiated by Mayor of Galway, Councillor Helen Ogbu, and attended by guests of honour Mary O’Dowd and William Henry, historian, author, and Peadar’s lifelong friend and protégé.

This dedication recognises the extraordinary contribution of Peadar O’Dowd (1941–2024) to the preservation, interpretation, and promotion of Galway’s history and heritage. A founding member of Galway Civic Trust, Peadar devoted his life to ensuring that Galway’s stories, waterways, archaeology, buildings, and communities were documented, protected, and shared with future generations. His work as a historian, educator, author, broadcaster, and heritage advocate left an indelible mark on the city he loved.

Peadar’s influence extended far beyond the pages of his many books and newspaper columns. He inspired countless people to take an interest in local history and championed the protection of Galway’s waterways and historic environment. Through his enthusiasm, generosity, and scholarship, he brought Galway’s past vividly to life for generations of residents and visitors alike.

The Hall of the Red Earl holds a special place within Galway’s heritage landscape, and it is fitting that its principal exhibition space should bear the name of a man whose life’s work was dedicated to preserving and celebrating that heritage. The newly named Peadar O’Dowd Gallery will serve as a lasting tribute to his legacy and as an inspiration for future generations of historians, researchers, and heritage enthusiasts.

Speaking about the renaming, Galway Civic Trust Chairperson Gerard D’Arcy said:

“Peadar O’Dowd was one of Galway’s greatest champions. His knowledge, passion, and commitment to preserving our city’s heritage helped shape public understanding of Galway’s unique history. Naming this gallery in his honour is a fitting and permanent recognition of his immense contribution to Galway and to Galway Civic Trust.”

The Trust warmly invites members of the public, friends of Peadar, local historians, community groups, and all those with an interest in Galway’s heritage to attend this special occasion.

Event Details

Peadar O’Dowd Gallery Naming Ceremony
📅 Friday, 24 July 2026
🕒 3:00 PM
📍 Hall of the Red Earl, Custom House, Druid Lane, Galway

Admission is free and all are welcome.