RCPI launch new exhibition, 'Homesick: Domestic Medicine in Ireland, c.1760-1900'

An exciting new exhibition, Homesick: Domestic Medicine in Ireland, c.1760-1900, was officially opened at a special event held at No. 6 Kildare Street on the evening of 14 August. The exhibition explores the historical role of the home in the delivery of medical care, highlighting the significant contributions of women in providing healthcare during this period.

The official opening was attended by members and fellows of the Royal College of Physicians of Ireland (RCPI), donors and members of the public. Speaking at the event, Dr Diarmuid O’Shea, President of RCPI, said: "The launch of Homesick represents an important opportunity to explore how Ireland’s rich medical heritage was so closely tied to the home. This exhibition highlights the pivotal role the home and people in the home have always played in the delivery of healthcare. It is a reminder that our connection to health and recovery is deeply rooted in our domestic spaces, and we are proud to share these stories with our community."

Homesick showcases how historically the majority of medical and healthcare has been delivered in the home and how women played an active role in providing this care. The exhibition explores various treatments and remedies, telling the story through archives and objects – from the conventional to the unusual. Ultimately, Homesick reminds us how important homes, and the people in them, have always been in looking after our health and recovery. To coincide with the exhibition, RCPI will host a masterclass on 23 September which looks at healthcare in the modern home. Dr O’Shea explained: “In many ways, the future of healthcare is revisiting the past. On Tuesday, 23 September we will hold a masterclass that explores the emerging world of virtual care in Ireland where modern technology is bringing healthcare back into the home, supporting patients with chronic conditions in ways that reflect our long tradition of care within the domestic space”. Learn more about the masterclass.

Homesick: Domestic Medicine in Ireland, c.1760-1900 runs until June 2026. Visit during Heritage Week (18-22 August) from 10am to 4pm. For other dates, please email heritagecentre@rcpi.ie for availability.

If you can’t visit the exhibition in person you can explore the exhibition online.