Larne Museum & Arts Centre

Housed in the town’s historic former Carnegie Free Library building, Larne Museum & Arts Centre’s main gallery hosts permanent displays reflecting the agricultural, industrial, military and maritime history of the area, with a small display revealing aspects of local sporting heritage, including artefacts relating to swimmer Dianne Barr who won two gold medals at the 1988 Paralympic Games in Seoul.

Sporting facilities expanded in the Larne area in the late 19th century due to increased holidays, shorter working hours and growing wealth, with many teams being organised within factories and companies.

By 1912, a number of sporting clubs were established in the area including Larne Rowing Club in 1867, Larne Football Club in 1889, Larne Golf Club in 1894, Larne Hockey Club in 1900, Larne Bowling and Tennis Club in 1908, and Larne Rugby Club in 1912.

Larne Museum’s historic collection holds a number of photographs and artefacts relating to these and other local sports.

Larne Museum & Arts Centre is managed by Mid and East Antrim Borough Council, and forms part of the Mid and East Antrim Museum & Heritage Service alongside similar local museums in Ballymena and Carrickfergus.