The exhibition and events programme is part of a Decade of Commemorations initiative, a project supported by the European Union’s PEACE IV Programme, managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB).
1918 was a year of civic action, advancements in health and technology, the end of war in Europe, women voting for the first time and a ground breaking election result in Ireland.
The events programme starts on Tuesday 21 August at 7pm with a talk from Patricia Marsh on the impact of Spanish Flu. The 1918-19 pandemic killed more people than the First World War, with Ulster and the North West affected particularly badly, as uncovered in new research undertaken by Patricia Marsh.
The award-winning 2014 film Testament of Youth will screen in the museum on Thursday 23 August at 7pm. The film follows the story of Vera Brittain who served as a Voluntary Aid Detachment (VAD) during the First World War, experiencing many of the horrors of war.
On Saturday, August 25, local historians Seamus Breslin and Trevor Temple will lead a ‘History from Headstones’ tour of the city cemetery, addressing the stories of people and events from across the Decade of Centenaries, including the impact of events such as the First World War on people locally.
A full programme of events, film screenings, tours and workshops will take place in support of the #MakingHistory 1918 Exhibition throughout the year.
All events are free to attend, however booking is advised. Contact the Tower Museum on 028 7137 2411 or email: tower@derrystrabane.com for more information and to book a place.
Events at a glance:
Tuesday, August 21, 7pm - ‘The 1918 Influenza Pandemic’ by Patricia Marsh
Thursday, August 23, 7pm - Testament of Youth film screening
Saturday, August 25, 1pm - History from Headstones Cemetery Tour
Entry to the #MakingHistory 1918 exhibition is free. Visit www.derrystrabane.com/towermuseum for more information.