We used great storytelling, beautiful design and 21st century technology to create Gorta - Swatragh’s Famine Story, a new visitor centre that delves into the history of Swatragh village and the incredible legacy of Dr. Mooney.Developed by Dermot Friel, the centre was inspired by the discovery of an original famine pot in 1992 and a small window on the historic Friel’s site during lockdown.Dr. Mooney and his wife, Sarah, ran a surgery and dispensary from this location in the mid 1800s, and during the Great Hunger – An Gorta Mór, they established a private soup kitchen to aid the community.In collaboration with esteemed historians like Ciarán Reilly from Maynooth University and local experts, the centre brings to life the Mooneys’ unwavering commitment during one of Ireland’s most challenging periods.The centre, part-funded by Tourism Northern Ireland’s Experience Development Programme and Invest Northern Ireland’s Collaborative Growth Programme, features interpretative panels, audiovisual aids, and incredible bog oak sculptures by Kieran Tuohy.As we commemorate 120 years of Friel family ownership, Gorta serves as a place of learning, reflection, and connection, helping visitors explore the past and trace their roots.
