Graverobbers in 19th century Ulster

This free event is being held in Larne Museum and Arts Centre on Thursday, March 31 from 7.30pm to 8.30pm.

Why did some resort to robbing graves at dead of night?

The demand for bodies from medical science led to illegal activities in many cemeteries, and resulted in special ‘mort houses’ being built to allow a guard to be set over the recently departed, as well as armed watchmen installed at some locations.

With examples of this most unusual industry from Belfast, Antrim and Down, this talk also highlights two Ulstermen who went further than graverobbing – Burke and Hare, one of whom was hanged in Edinburgh for his vile deeds, the other of whom lived the remainder of his days in south Down.

Places are limited and must be booked in advance.