About the Memorial

The Memorial Rhode Island’s permanent memorial to the two and one-half millon victims and survivors of Ireland’s “Great Famine” of 1845-1851 was dedicated on Saturday, November 17, 2007 ! Photographs of the site are posted on the Dedication page.

Although the Memorial has been dedicated, funds are still being raised to ensure perpetual care, as well as to fund annual events.

You can play a continuing part in Rhode Island’s Irish-American history and future. For information about purchasing a commemorative brick or flagstone, or to make a larger, tax-deductible donation please call 943-0124.

A beautiful down-city site along the Providence River Walk was selected as the location for the Rhode Island Famine Memorial, which was designed and executed by the internationally acclaimed sculptor, Robert Shure. It serves as a forceful and moving tribute to the sufferings and triumphs of those who came before us. It also preserves the memory and the historical meaning of the great Famine for future generations of Rhode Islanders of whatever ethnic or cultural background.

The Memorial – A Description

The Irish Memorial occupies a prominent location along the newly restored waterfront at River Walk in Providence. A larger-than-life statue of three Irish figures sits on a round stone base, bordered by a walkway that incorporates the donor-bricks and flagstones. The walkway leads to a commemorative wall that narrates the history of the Famine amid the Irish immigration. The sidewalk beneath the wall incorporates an outline map depicting the coasts of America and Ireland, emphasizing the courageous journey of the Irish people to the United States.

Donor-bricks create an outer semi-circle framing the maps, and flagstones border the sidewalk nearest that runs alongside the river.