Bygones Museum

The museum is located in a self contained Unit forming part of the Old Boat House, – a building of local lime stone, dated as early 18th Century, and featuring a curious medieval face carved on one of the cornerstones. It is attached to Bob’s Bar – a local watering hole since the 1900’s. The Durrow Bygones Museum represents a comprehensive collection of everyday objects, including artefacts and printed ephemera/photographs, relating to life and the people of Durrow and its hinterland Co. Laois. The collection represents over 100 years of social life in the area. Jack Moyney VC Cross recipient is immortalised in Durrow`s Bygones Museum, the Victoria Cross was awarded to him for being in command of 15 men forming two advanced posts. Surrounded by the enemy he held his post for 96 hours, having no water and very little food. On the fifth day, on the enemy advancing to dislodge him, he attacked them with bombs, while also using his Lewis gun with great effect. Finding himself surrounded, he led his men in a charge through the enemy and reached a stream, where he and a private Thomas Woodcock covered his party while they crossed unscathed, before crossing themselves under a shower of bullets. Bob continues to collect material and is delighted to share his findings with visitors to the Museum. Groups are encouraged to visit and learn about life in Durrow from bygone days. The museum is located in the Maisie Campion Room and the Old Boat House, but visitors will find more materials scattered throughout the Bar area as well.