Preserving the history & heritage of Bantry
The Bantry Historical & Archaeological Society (BHAS) is a voluntary organization, founded in 1978 by local enthusiasts dedicated to researching, preserving, and sharing the history, culture and folklore of the greater Bantry area in County Cork.
What We Do
Our core mission involves documenting local heritage through several key activities:
Managing the Bantry Museum
We operate the Museum, which houses a collection of artifacts, tools, weapons, and clothing gathered from the local community.
Publishing Research
We produce a series of scholarly journals containing expertly researched articles on local history, ensuring that historical knowledge is recorded and accessible.
Community Engagement
We organise talks, outings and events to connect locals and visitors with their heritage, fostering a sense of community pride and historical awareness.
Preservation Projects
Beyond the Museum, we have undertaken significant projects, such as the mapping of the Abbey Graveyard and our Words from the Past collection of of poetry/song written by the people of Bantry, young and old.
Over nearly five decades, the society has relied on volunteer contributions and rigorous research to fulfil its remit of making the history of Bantry and its environs known and preserved for future generations.
Who We Are
We have a dedicated Board, a solid volunteer base and a generous membership.
| Seán Kelly – Cathaoirleach |
| Seamus O’Shea – Secretary |
| Margaret McAllister – Treasurer |
| Eileen O’Sullivan – Assistant Treasurer |
| Bernard O’Leary – PRO |
| Hazel Vickery – Museum Curator |
| Colum Hourihan – Journal Editor |
Our Latest News
Get Involved
Help us keep Bantry’s history alive. Join as a member, volunteer at the museum or support our research projects.