Francis Bigger exhibition on display in Central Library

The Francis Bigger Exhibition, one of the most significant local history collections in Ireland, has gone on display in the foyer of Belfast Central Library.

The exhibition, entitled ‘Francis Joseph Bigger – Ireland’s Cultural Visionary’ will run until December 2007 and will include material from the Bigger library and archive.

Speaking at the launch of the exhibition Libraries Minister Edwin Poots said: “The Francis Bigger collection represents one of the most significant local history collections in the Central Library and is one of the most significant local history collections in Ireland. It was donated to Belfast Central Library in 1927 and it is good that the collection is on display for everyone to see.

“One of the biggest challenges facing the library service today is how to make library resources more accessible to everyone in Northern Ireland. Placing exhibitions on display, like this one, will play an important part in that process. It would be wonderful to see this and other collections touring the province – or even further afield.”

The Minister continued: “Another important aspect of this exhibition which I must commend is the successful partnership between Belfast Education and Library Board and National Museums Northern Ireland. This is an excellent example of how two organisations can come together to make our services more accessible to the public.”

Edwin Poots drew attention to the informative accompanying booklet about Francis Bigger written by Roger Dixon, Librarian at the Ulster Folk and Transport Museum, which gives a fascinating insight about ‘the man himself’ and life during this period of history.

In conclusion the Minister congratulated all involved in putting the exhibition together. He said: “I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate everyone for their hard work in getting this collection on display. I’m sure it will be a great success and one that is well worth a visit.”

Notes to Editors:

1. Francis Joseph Bigger attended the Royal Belfast Academical Institution before studying law at Trinity College, Dublin. After graduation he established a busy law practice in Belfast but found time to enter into the city’s cultural life. He joined the Belfast Naturalists’ Field Club and became editor of the ‘Ulster Journal of Archaeology’. He corresponded with scholars from all over the world on aspects of Irish history and culture and over 3,500 letters are held within the archive in Central Library.
2. Bigger was a noted historian and antiquarian and the collection (established in Belfast Central by his brother after his death) reflects his interests in all things Irish, including the 1798 Rebellion and its aftermath and the archaeology of Ireland.
3. Media enquiries to DCAL Press Office on 028 90 258917 or email: press.office@dcalni.gov.uk Out of office hours please contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.