Discovery of burial site at Tuam mother and baby home

Archaeologists have uncovered evidence of a burial site at the location of the former mother and baby home in Tuam, County Galway. The team began excavations in July, aiming to locate and identify as many human remains as possible.

The Tuam institution gained worldwide attention in 2014 when historian Catherine Corless revealed that there were 796 death certificates for children who died there, but no corresponding burial records existed.

The Office of the Director of Authorised Intervention, Tuam (ODAIT), released its fourth progress update, reporting the discovery of graves suitable for children or infants on the western edge of the site. Excavations have been conducted under a protective tent, in a section historically marked as a "burial ground" on old maps.

ODAIT stated: "Although historical documents suggested a burial area, no surface or ground-level signs were visible prior to excavation. The presence of burials has now been confirmed. The size and arrangement of the graves indicate they belong to the period when the mother-and-baby home was operational."

The institution operated between 1925 and 1961. In the latest findings, four additional sets of remains were recovered, adding to seven previously reported. Preliminary assessments suggest all eleven sets belong to infants, each found in coffins. Detailed analysis is ongoing. Excavation work combines both mechanical and manual methods.

This discovery site is approximately 100 meters from another area where a government inquiry team in 2017 uncovered a large number of remains in underground chambers. The Tuam home was managed by the Bon Secours Sisters under Galway County Council oversight. The religious order has acknowledged that the burial practices for children were "disrespectful and unacceptable" and has contributed 2.14 million to the excavation costs. Galway County Council also issued an apology in 2021 for failing the mothers and children.

The excavation is projected to continue until 2027, with additional work expected to extend for several more years.

Author: Noah Whitman