The Belfast Poor House and workhouse are often confused with one another, but they were two very different buildings with distinct purposes and histories. This talk explores why both were established, what life was like within their walls, and the people whose lives became connected to them.
We’ll hear stories of some of the people who called these institutions home, as well as those who worked there and were responsible for running them. Together, these stories offer a fascinating glimpse into Belfast’s past and the social conditions, hardships and human experiences that shaped the city.
Our Speakers:
Dr Lauren Smyth is the Historian of Clifton House who researches and tells the stories of those who worked and lived in the Belfast Poor House, the work of the Belfast Charitable Society and Mary Ann McCracken.
Dr Robyn Atcheson is a social historian who teaches and writes on social history, history of medicine and women’s history. Her specialist research interests lie in the history of poor relief and public health in nineteenth-century Belfast.
Planning your visit:
- Free car parking onsite at Clifton House
- Please advise in advance (min 2 days prior to your visit) of any accessibility requirements. We have steps and stairs coming into the building and to the first floor, but we can make alternative arrangements with advanced notice. For more information on accessibility please visit – https://cliftonbelfast.com/visit/accessibility/
- Cancellations & Refund Policy – Cancellations must be made within 24 hours of scheduled talk start time.
