In 2026 Ireland commemorates 150th anniversary of the rescue of six Fenian leaders - James Wilson, Thomas Darragh, Martin Hogan, Michael Harrington, Thomas Hassett, and Robert Cranston - from Fremantle Prison in the British penal colony in Western Australia, by the whaling ship Catalpa. The rescue took place between 17th and 19th April 1876.

This event is one of the most infamous and celebrated prison breaks of this era and is an important milestone in the fight for Irish independence, with its success boosting confidence in and support for the cause in both Ireland and the United States of America. It also illustrates the importance of the Irish-American community and their support for Irish independence.

Catalpa 150 at the National Museum of Ireland

As part of the Catalpa 150 commemorations, the National Museum of Ireland will display the Catalpa flag in the Palatine Room at Collins Barracks on Saturday 18 and Sunday 19 April 2026. Measuring more than four metres by three metres, it is the largest flag in the national collection. Its size prevents it from being shown in standard gallery spaces, making this a rare opportunity for the public to view this important historic object.