Collecting Memories

In his in-depth account of the "Your Tenement Memories" project, author Donal Fallon, a social historian with the Dublin City Council Culture Company, explores how the 14 Henrietta Street Museum is preserving the city's tenement history through this innovative oral history initiative. Launched in early 2019, the project seeks to capture the living memories of tenement life in Dublin by engaging with communities across the city and county.

Fallon, who previously served as Historian in Residence to Dublin City Council, highlights how oral history has played a crucial role in shaping the museum's guided tours and programming. The personal stories shared by former residents and their descendants have brought the building's history to life, providing unique insights into the everyday experiences of those who called the tenements home.

Henrietta Street © Ros Kavanagh  

 

The museum's guides have witnessed firsthand the power of the building to evoke memories and inspire storytelling among visitors. They emphasize the importance of capturing these stories, which often supplement the academic research and provide a more personal perspective on the city's history.

Interior of the museum © Ros Kavanagh  

 

Through a series of "Your Tenement Memories" roadshows held in community centres, libraries, and other civic spaces, the museum has been able to collect a wealth of stories and recollections. These memories have not only influenced the museum's tours but have also inspired events such as Teatime Talks, which explore themes that emerged from the oral history collection.

Tenement Memory Event in Ballyfermot Library © Dan Butler

As 14 Henrietta Street continues to develop its oral history program, it aims to establish and maintain meaningful relationships with individuals and community groups, ensuring that the tenement history of Dublin remains accessible and alive for future generations.

 

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