The Tom O'Neill Defence Forces Insignia Collection

(Above) The Irish Volunteers, Cumann Na mBan and Na Fianna insignia

To view the collection, click on the link HERE

From the Irish Volunteers to the modern Defence Forces, badges and insignia have provided a distinctive visual language of military service. Worn on uniforms to identify corps, units, formations and rank. They reflect the history, organisation and traditions of Ireland’s Defence Forces. This exhibition presents a selection from the Tom O’Neill Collection, a unique and significant assemblage of Irish military badges, insignia and accoutrements collected over many years.

Cork Public Museum is honoured to display this remarkable collection, which offers valuable insight into the history and development of Ireland’s Defence Forces. Together, these objects trace changes in military organisation, uniform, and design while helping to preserve an important aspect of Ireland’s military heritage. Open the drawers to explore this collection and discover the badges, units, and traditions they represent.

Cork Public Museum gratefully acknowledges Tom O’Neill for collecting, preserving, and sharing this remarkable collection, and for his invaluable assistance in developing this exhibition. We are deeply appreciative of the opportunity to showcase this unique material and make it accessible to our visitors. This display represents only a portion of the collection.

The Museum looks forward to continuing its work and sharing further material in the future. For further information and resources, please visit the Cork Public Museum website and keep an eye on future updates as more of this collection becomes available