Boston College Displays Rare 1916 Irish Proclamation

The John J. Burns Library is showcasing an original copy of the historic document through the fall semester.

Updated on Oct. 21, 2026 in Cultural

A close-up of a weathered, yellowed historical document inside a glass display case within a wood-paneled library. — Boston College has unveiled a rare 1916 Irish Proclamation at the John J. Burns Library, marking a significant addition to its archives. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Boston College unveiled a rare 1916 Irish Proclamation at its John J. Burns Library on September 30, 2026. This newly acquired document is one of approximately 50 surviving copies from an original print run of 1,000.

Why it matters

The acquisition offers a rare link to the Easter Rising, as this specific copy is one of only three known to have been preserved by a woman who participated in the rebellion.

The document is part of a 1,000-copy original print run, with only about 50 copies estimated to exist today. This particular version stands out as one of just three known copies saved by women participants of the 1916 Easter Rising.

The players

Helena Molony

She was a revolutionary and activist who participated in the 1916 Easter Rising and preserved this copy of the Proclamation.

Christian Dupont

He is the library representative who managed the acquisition process for the university.

Noël Browne

He was an Irish politician and physician whose family previously held the document.

The details

The library secured the Proclamation through an auction in Ireland, with the purchase negotiated by Christian Dupont via Fonsie Mealy Auctioneers. It was originally printed in secret at Liberty Hall before being issued on April 24, 1916, and has since been held by families including those of Helena Molony and Noël Browne.

The Proclamation was secretly printed at Liberty Hall on April 23, 1916.
The document was formally issued in Dublin on April 24, 1916.
Boston College unveiled the copy on September 30, 2026.
The exhibit remains on display through the end of the fall 2026 semester.

Industry Dynamics

The acquisition of such a seminal artifact follows the trend of major research universities investing in the preservation of global historical archives. This move positions the John J. Burns Library as a significant steward of Irish revolutionary history within the United States.

Members of the public can view the historic document in person at the library's Irish Room. The exhibit is scheduled to remain open for visitors through the conclusion of the fall semester.

The takeaway

Preservation efforts like this ensure that physical pieces of history remain accessible for public study and reflection. Visitors interested in historical documents should check library exhibition schedules for similar upcoming displays.