Panel to discuss the vital legacy of the Tower Museum
19 March 2026
A special event will take place in the Guildhall at the end of the month reflecting on the enduring impact and legacy of the Tower Museum following the closure of the popular Story of Derry exhibition.
On Sunday March 29th, from 3pm - 5pm, members of the public are invited to attend a panel discussion bringing together leading voices from the heritage, tourism and museum sectors.
Titled ‘Celebrating the Story of Derry: Looking Back, Moving Forward’, the event will provide a unique opportunity for audiences to hear directly from those who helped shape one of the city’s most influential cultural attractions, while also considering how its legacy will inform the next chapter in Derry’s storytelling.
Hosted by broadcaster and storyteller Joe Mahon, the panel will feature Dr Brian Lacey, the original creator of the Tower Museum and the Story of Derry exhibition. Also taking part will be Helen Quigley, Inner City Trust, Odhrán Dunne, Visit Derry and Margaret Edwards, Museum Service Manager, Derry City and Strabane District Council.
The panel will consider the exhibition’s lasting influence on how the region’s history has been understood and shared, discuss the transition of its collections and narratives, and explore the aspirations for the new DNA Museum as a future cultural landmark for the city and district.
Looking ahead to the event, Mayor of Derry and Strabane, Councillor Ruairí McHugh, said: “For generations of visitors and residents alike, the Story of Derry has provided a powerful and accessible way to understand the complex and fascinating history of our city. This event offers a chance not only to celebrate the remarkable achievements of the Tower Museum, but also to look forward with excitement to the next chapter of our cultural journey.
“I would encourage anyone with an interest in our shared heritage to come along, take part in the conversation and help shape how our stories continue to be told.”
Margaret Edwards, Museum Service Manager with Derry City and Strabane District Council, added: “The Story of Derry exhibition has played a defining role in the city’s museum service for many years, welcoming audiences from across the world and helping generations engage with our past in meaningful ways.
“As we prepare for the transition to the DNA Museum, this panel discussion is an opportunity to reflect on what we have learned, celebrate the dedication of those who made the exhibition possible, and explore how we can build on that experience to create a truly world-class museum for the future.”
As well as looking back, the discussion will give some unique insight into how the museum’s collections, objects and narratives will evolve through the transition period and the challenge of creating innovative and engaging museum experiences for future audiences at the DNA Museum.
Admission to the event, which takes place in the Guildhall on Sunday March 29th, from 3pm - 5pm, is free, but spaces may be limited.