Galway Civic Trust/Dúchas na Gaillimhe has announced that the exhibition room at the Hall of the Red Earl, Custom House, Druid Lane, will be officially renamed the Peadar O’Dowd Gallery during a special public ceremony tomorrow (Friday ).
The ceremony will be officiated by Mayor of Galway, Councillor Helen Ogbu. Guests of honour will include Peadar O’Dowd’s widow, Mary O’Dowd, and William Henry, historian, author, and one of his closest friends and former students.
The naming of the gallery commemorates the remarkable contribution made by Peadar O’Dowd (1941–2024 ) to Galway’s cultural and historical life. A respected historian, educator, author, and founding member of Galway Civic Trust, O’Dowd dedicated decades to researching, documenting, and promoting Galway’s rich heritage. His work played a significant role in fostering public appreciation of the city’s history and in protecting important aspects of Galway’s built and natural heritage, particularly its waterways.
Throughout his career, O’Dowd authored numerous books and articles on Galway’s history and was widely recognised as one of the city’s most influential heritage advocates. His scholarship, community engagement, and passion for local history inspired generations of Galwegians and visitors alike.
The Hall of the Red Earl is one of Galway’s most significant archaeological and heritage sites. Renaming its exhibition space in honour of Peadar O’Dowd reflects both his lifelong commitment to preserving Galway’s heritage and his enduring connection with Galway Civic Trust.
Mayor Helen Ogbu will formally unveil the new gallery name during the ceremony, which will include reflections on Peadar’s life, work, and legacy from family members, colleagues, and friends.
Everyone is welcome to attend.
