Best known for his participation and execution during the 1916 Easter Rising, MacDonagh was influential in a vast arena of change in early 20th century Ireland. This influence was continued by his family who are introduced to visitors across the museum.

On entering the foyer a doubled sided display brings you through the events of 1916 which is complemented by a range of artefacts from life in Cloughjordan at the time. Throughout the museum a wide range of objects are used to highlight family stories. The pianoforte is a key item, once belonging to Marie-Louise MacDonagh and which she used to teach music.