Linen Industry Exhibition

On the top floor is an exhibition on the Linen Industry in Ulster, called “The Laggan Way of Life”.  The growing and harvesting of flax and its subsequent conversion into linen thread and fabric was a way of life for many Ulster-Scots families across the country.  

The influx of large numbers of Scottish families into County Donegal in the 17th century, saw the production of linen increasing.  Indeed, at one time, Donegal was the leading flax-producing county in Ireland.  A wall map shows the other flourishing industries and a significant number of mills – particularly following industrialisation.  

From the middle of the 1800s, the Tenant Right movement in Donegal became increasingly strong and local Presbyterians, including members of the clergy, were heavily involved in setting up associations that demanded greater protection for the rights of tenant farmers.