National Museum Northern Ireland - Troubles Collection

The Troubles collection consists mainly of political posters and ephemera, many of which date from the early to mid-1970s. There are also many examples of prison-made objects, badges and artworks. Inevitably the interpretation of these events is contested in terms of significance, meaning and responsibility. While we have a shared past we do not have a shared memory.

Through a new initiative entitled ‘Collecting the Troubles and Beyond’ we are working to build our collection to cover social change, working life, arts and culture, and the ever changing environment around us.

We have collected material relating to everyday experiences, music and sports as well as the experiences of the LGBT community and others.