An exhibition of memorial quilts which explores the stories of victims and survivors of the Troubles has been unveiled at the Irish Linen Centre and Lisburn Museum.  

The exhibition was organised by the South Eastern Fermanagh Foundation (SEFF), established in 1998 to support the victims and survivors of terrorism in Northern Ireland and further afield. 

Seven memorial quilts and one organisational tapestry, featuring a scannable QR code are on display where visitors can learn more about the textiles, and the stories behind them form part of the exhibition. Volunteers are also on hand to guide visitors through the display and offer support.  

Cllr Jonathan Craig, Chairman of LCCC’s Leisure & Community Wellbeing Committee, said: “We are delighted that Lisburn Museum was able to work so closely with SEFF to facilitate the display of the Memorial Quilts and Organisational Tapestry.  We must give victims and survivors a voice to tell their stories and remember their loved ones.”

Mr Kenny Donaldson, Director of SEFF, said: "SEFF's doors are open and welcoming to all innocents; whether victimised by republican or loyalist terrorism or through criminal-based actions committed by members of the security forces. SEFF is not defined by constitutional politics or denominational religion.  Our values unite us: consistent opposition to violence.  Our work is underpinned by the idea that violence is futile and totally unjustified, those remembered are wholly innocent and the legacy of those represented will live on amongst those left behind.”

"The quilts were developed by a team of special volunteers within SEFF under the guidance of a project facilitator. The quilts humanise those being remembered.  They were just ordinary people, but extraordinary to those who knew them best.”

The exhibition is open from 9.30am - 5pm (Monday-Saturday) from 8-24 October 2024. More information can be found at: lisburnmuseum.com