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

Saturday 22 August 2026 | 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM
Mick Lally Theatre, Druid Lane, Galway

Join Galway Civic Trust for a special screening of the acclaimed 2017 documentary by Des Kilbane; Ag Trasnú An Atlantaigh Dhuibh / Crossing the Black Atlantic, a remarkable true story of Tom Molineaux, a former enslaved African American who rose to become one of the greatest bare-knuckle boxers of the early nineteenth century.

After winning his freedom in the United States, Molineaux travelled to England where he challenged the reigning champion, Tom Cribb, in two legendary prize fights that remain among the most debated contests in boxing history. Celebrated by many during his lifetime, his fortunes later declined, leading him to Galway in 1818.

The film explores Molineaux’s extraordinary journey across the Atlantic and concludes with the little-known story of his final days in Galway, where he was cared for by fellow freedmen serving with the 77th Regiment before his death. He was buried in a pauper’s grave in Mervue, creating a unique and often overlooked connection between Galway and one of the most remarkable sporting figures of his age.

This screening forms part of Galway Civic Trust: A Celebration of Heritage 2026, a full-day programme presented during National Heritage Week 2026. Held across the Mick Lally Theatre, the Hall of the Red Earl, and the Peadar O’Dowd Gallery, the day features talks, exhibitions, living history displays, storytelling, and an evening concert, celebrating Galway’s rich heritage while reflecting this year’s Heritage Week theme, “Heritage at Risk.”

For programme updates and booking information, visit https://www.tickettailor.com/events/galwaycivictrustdchasnagaillimhe

Galway Civic Trust / Dúchas na Gaillimhe
Hall of the Red Earl, Druid Lane, Galway
☎ 091 564946

This event is supported by Kavanagh’s SuperValu, Druid Theatre and Galway City Council through the Local Community Festival Grants Scheme.