A Forgotten Polish Hero of the Great irish Famine: Paul Strzelecki's Struggle To Save Thousands

Exhibition Milford Library

As part of the National Famine Commemoration Community Engagement Programme Milford Community Library is delighted to host an exhibition presented by the Polish Embassy in Dublin which explores the fascinating life and achievements of one of the great humanitarians of the nineteenth century, whose contributions to Irish Famine relief have yet to be widely known and commemorated.

Count Paul (Paweł) Strzelecki, a world-renowned Polish explorer and scientist, volunteered to work in Ireland to combat raging Famine over a three-year period (1847-49).

In order to alleviate the critical situation of famished Irish families and especially children, Strzelecki developed a visionary and exceptionally effective mode of assistance: feeding starving children directly through the schools.

Despite suffering from the effects of typhoid fever he contracted in Ireland, Strzelecki dedicated himself tirelessly to hunger relief. His commitment was widely recognized and praised by his contemporaries, and this exhibition endeavors to bring his achievements and legacy back into the public eye.

The exhibition will be hosted in Milford Community Library during library opening hours Tuesdays and Thursdays throughout May from 9.30am – 1pm and 2pm - 5.30pm. Everyone is welcome and entry is free.

The Polish Ambassador to Ireland, Madam Ambassador Anna Sochańska, will visit Milford Community Library on Friday, 19^th May 2023 to talk to local school children about Count Strzelecki and her role as ambassador to Ireland.

For further information contact Catherine at Milford Community Library 074 91 53927 or email [email protected]