Brian Cody's cap among Kilkenny items to be included in new GAA exhibition

Brian Cody’s famous baseball cap is among the items included in the new GAA exhibition revealed by the National Museum of Ireland.

The exhibition titled, GAA: People, Objects & Stories, will display a baseball cap worn by one of the most successful managers in the history of hurling, Brian Cody, from when he was Kilkenny senior hurling manager from 1999 to 2022. 

Also on display is archival footage from the 1960s of hurley making in Neary’s workshop in Kilkenny.

Brian Cody's Cap

The exhibition includes objects dating from the 15th century to the present day, many of which will be on public display for the first time.

Members of the public are invited to engage with the multi-media exhibition by sharing their own memories and experiences.

The exhibition is the creation of Dr Siobhán Doyle, author of the critically acclaimed book, A History of the GAA in 100 Objects, which was published last year.

Minister of State for Sport and Physical Education, Thomas Byrne visited the museum for a tour to mark the launch of the new exhibition.

“The GAA has brought its sense of community and Irish identity abroad, and the association continues to thrive amongst the Irish diaspora and, indeed, new communities around the world,” he said.

“As the Association looks ahead to its 140th anniversary, I think it is timely that our National Museum has developed this unique exhibition which I am sure will be extremely popular and provide new insights into both the GAA and Irish life through the years,” he added.

Ard Stiúrthóir of the GAA, Tom Ryan said that the gathering of artefacts overseen by Dr Boyle showcases the reach of the GAA into ‘everyday lives’ in Ireland and around the globe.  

“Many of us derived huge enjoyment from Dr Doyle’s book and I warmly welcome the composition of this exhibition which I have no doubt will prove fascinating for GAA members and non-members alike,” he said.