2025 marks the eightieth anniversary of the end of the Second World War, known in Ireland as ‘The Emergency.’ Although Ireland remained officially neutral during the conflict, many Irish, indeed Waterford’s citizens, served abroad.
Those at home endured rationing, shortages of all kinds, and the constant anxiety for friends and family serving and living overseas.
Waterford Treasures is appealing to the people of Waterford to help tell the story of this remarkable period in our history. In collaboration with Diverse Waterford and with funding from Creative Waterford, we intend to record and preserve these memories for future generations. These recordings will also form the foundation of an exhibition planned for the summer and autumn at the Medieval Museum.
Donnchadh Ó Ceallacháin, curator at Waterford Treasures, said, “This project is about capturing the personal side of a global event, seen through the eyes of Waterford people. Every photograph, every letter, every story helps us to understand how deeply the war years touched our community, even from a country that stood officially neutral.”
We are particularly interested in collecting the memories of those who lived through this time, as well as stories passed down through families from parents and grandparents.
We are also seeking objects that can bring this history to life. We welcome offers to loan or donate original photographs, letters, postcards, diaries, medals, military equipment, official documents such as military records, and other objects from the period.
If you would like to participate, please contact Donnchadh Ó Ceallacháin Waterford Treasures Museums, at doceallachain@waterfordcouncil.ie
Locals and visitors are also invited to join Waterford Treasures for a WWII Open Day: Sunday, 27 April, from 2pm – 4.30pm at The Medieval Museum, Cathedral Square, Waterford.
