What you should know about us: We, the Maria Edgeworth Centre, are more than just a museum; we are a living tribute to one of Ireland’s most influential pioneers in literature and education. Located in the historic ‘Old Schoolhouse’ in Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands, we bring the story of Maria Edgeworth, her family and their connections and contributions to life.
Plan your visit to our heritage centre in County Longford to learn more and immerse yourself in the story.
In the mid 1960’s a group of like-minded members of the community came together to establish The Edgeworth Society. The society aimed to research, protect, conserve and promote the legacy of the Edgeworth family. Initially, the members undertook extensive research and assembled a collection of valuable Edgeworth memorabilia. In recent years, having acquired an 1840 school building from the Edgeworth family, the Society decided to develop the Maria Edgeworth Centre in 2019 and open up the artefacts and the story to a wider audience.
The Maria Edgeworth Centre is proudly managed by an Irish registered charity, relying entirely on self-generated funds to sustain its operations and keep its collections open to the public.
Volunteers form a wonderful – and invaluable – part of our team at the Maria Edgeworth Centre. Their time, enthusiasm and talents support every aspect of our work and help make each visit a welcoming and memorable experience.
We also warmly welcome students for work placements and university students seeking work experience. These placements offer practical, hands-on opportunities to engage with literary heritage, museums and cultural work, while contributing meaningfully to the life of the Centre.
Help us make history come alive – become a volunteer today!
"The Maria Edgeworth Centre isn't just about looking back; it's about inspiring the voices of tomorrow."
Born in 1768, Maria Edgeworth embarked on her literary journey during her late teenage years. Over the years she essentially invented the regional novel and deeply influenced literary giants like Sir Walter Scott and Jane Austen.
