Local contractors Duey Brothers, along with a team of volunteers, arrived at the site of the Doagh Famine Village in Co Donegal on Monday morning, May 12, to complete the full clearance of the fire-damaged area.
This vital moment marks the beginning of the Village’s journey back — and a new chapter in its history.
In a powerful video recorded at the scene, founder Pat Doherty expresses his gratitude to the thousands who have offered support since the fire: “Without that support, we wouldn’t be at this today. We’d have given up.
“But we’re hoping that in a few weeks’ time, we’ll be partly open again for the summer season — and we can’t thank you enough.”
The emotional video also features Seamus Doherty of Duey Brothers, who speaks about the importance of the site to the local area: “You don’t realise how much you miss it until it’s gone. No buses, no buzz… It’s important for the whole community that we help Pat get it going again.”
The blaze, which broke out on Saturday, May 3, was caused by an air compressor malfunction and quickly spread through the newer part of the visitor centre.
While the original cottages — including Pat Doherty’s birthplace — remain intact, several exhibitions were destroyed.
The site was not insured for fire damage, making community fundraising essential to its recovery.
As of Monday evening, over €95,000 has been raised through a GoFundMe campaign and generous pledges from local businesses. That figure continues to grow, as support floods in from across Ireland and beyond.
May 12, 2025: Contractors arrive at the site of Doagh Famine Village in Co Donegal.
About Doagh Famine Village:
Founded in 1997 by Pat Doherty, the Doagh Famine Village is a unique cultural attraction that tells the story of Irish life from the Great Famine to the present day.
Located on the Isle of Doagh in Inishowen, Co Donegal, it has drawn visitors from all over the world, offering a powerful and often emotional look at Ireland’s past.
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