The Hunt Museum

Location

The Hunt Museum is suited on Rutland Street in Limerick City, which is by the banks of the River Shannon and not for for the city center.

Why I chose the Hunt Museum

As I’m not a local around Limerick, so did not really know what the city had to offer. However a few years ago I paid a visit to the museum, when I started in UL and had a evening off I decided to pay another visit. After studying art for the leaving cert I learned to appreciate different works of art. this is what make me interested in the museum.

The Hunt Museum

Information on the Museum

The Hunt Museum is not like any regular museum. Its collection has no set order or theme to it. The collection was started my a husband and wife, Mr. and Mrs. John and Gertrude Hunt in the 1930’s in London. The collection is a personal collection, which was added to for about 30 years. During the Second World War they moved to Ireland and stared exhibited their collection in their own home.  The items where displayed on their tables, on their walls, and in draws in all the rooms of their house. They encouraged all their guests to engage with the items, not only to look but to also handle them. 

The Hunt family did not set up the museum. The collection was left to the Irish government but they had nowhere to but these objects so could not except. Fortunately they met Professor Patrick Doran of the National Institute of Higher Education.  It first officially opened its doors on the 14^th of February 1997. The domestic fell is what makes the Hunt Museum different. This background is what shaped the display and presentation in the Hunt Museum. 

The building its-self is not a purpose built museum. It was originally an Customs House from the 18^th century, which was restored. Because of this they are able to display a lot of there collection in natural light. 

Objects in draws

To include the domestic feel some objects are shown in draws and on shelves just like how the Hunts displayed them. Things are placed together because they look good and really no other reason. Labels and graphic panels provide information, but this is deliberately limited to an easy level, even people with little knowledge still understand. They also supply a catalogue of the museum. They also run guided tours around the museum. They have a cafe in the basement of the museum where people can enjoy a cup of coffee or a piece of cake. the Hunt Museum is well worth a visit.

F.Y.I

The opening hours for the museum are Monday to Saturday 10 am – 5 pm, and Sunday 2 pm – 5 pm. The entry price is 5 euro for an adult, 3.50 euro concession (students and OAPs), and 2.50 euro for a child. They also have family rates and their guided tours are at no extra cost.

The Hunt Museums website.

Emma Buckley (11129077)