A helping hand as an official fundraiser set up for Doagh Famine Village after fire

An official fundraiser has been set up online after an extensive part of Doagh Famine Village was destroyed by fire on Saturday.

The fire ripped through the Ballyliffin site from 3:30pm till nightfall, with firefighters eventually quelling the blaze. Nobody was injured, and foul play is not suspected.

However, the site, due to have thatched roofs, could not be insured for fire, although public liability insurance was in place, owner Pat Doherty said on Sunday.

“We are heartbroken, but deeply grateful for the outpouring of support from near and far,” Mr Doherty posted, having said 60 per cent of the site was ruined.

He also wanted that there were false fundraisers in place, although he has given his blessing to one set up by John McGonagle, of Wild Alpaca Way at Malin Head. You can donate to Doagh Famine Village on GoFundMe.

“A GoFundMe has been set up by our good friend John at Wild Alpaca Way to help us begin the long road to rebuilding,” the official Doagh Famine Village Facebook page posted. “Please be aware: There are fake pages trying to take advantage of this fire. This is the only official fundraiser, set up by someone we trust.

Thank you again for your kind messages, offers of help and continued support. It means more than we can say. “Please share this post to help us spread the word.

The GoFundMe details the history of Doagh Famine Village and the hopes to rebuild the centre.

It reads in full: “On a devastating day for Irish heritage, a fire destroyed two-thirds of the iconic Doagh Famine Village on the Inishowen Peninsula — one of the North West’s most beloved and unique tourist attractions. Thankfully, no lives were lost, but the emotional and cultural loss is immense.

“Founded by Pat Doherty in 1997, Doagh Famine Village is more than just a museum. It has been a place where generations have come to understand Ireland’s past, from famine times through to the peace process, through powerful storytelling, life-size exhibits, and a deeply personal connection to the local community. Many of the thatched buildings were replicas of historical sites like a Republican safe house, an Orange Hall, a Presbyterian Meeting House, and others, preserving the stories of Travellers, Irish traditions, and rural life. Now, much of that history has been reduced to ashes.

The fire scene at the Doagh Famine Village on Saturday, as captured by Tony McBride / Online Video Productions

“The fire claimed irreplaceable parts of the village, including the buildings dedicated to the famine, the peace process, and the Traveller community. These weren’t just exhibits — they were the result of decades of care, passion, and commitment. And tragically, because the thatched buildings couldn’t be insured affordably, there is no coverage for the loss.

“This village was self-sustaining, relying solely on visitor income, with no government funding or large sponsorships. And yet, it has played a vital role in peace and reconciliation, welcoming groups from both sides of the political divide and helping foster understanding and dialogue. We’re asking for your help to rebuild this one-of-a-kind cultural landmark.

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“Your donation will go directly toward restoring the damaged buildings, replacing lost exhibits, and hopefully reopening the doors to a place that has meant so much to so many. Local farmers, the fire service, and the community have already rallied to help, but we need wider support to bring Doagh Famine Village back to life.

“Whether you’ve visited the village yourself, learned from its stories, or simply believe in preserving our shared history, please consider supporting this cause. Every euro will make a difference.

“Let’s help ensure that future generations can once again walk through the doors of Doagh Famine Village and connect with Ireland’s story, told by the people who’ve lived it. Thank you for your kindness, support, and belief in the power of history to bring us together.”