Campaign to rebuild famous Jimmy's Hall space in Co. Leitrim has raised over €12,000

Dancer, artist, and cultural activist Edwina Guckian has organised a campaign to raise funds to rebuild the famous Co. Leitrim community hall that inspired the 2014 film Jimmy's Hall.

Jimmy's Hall was originally built in 1921 by Jimmy Gralton, a farmer and an emigrant who had returned to Ireland. His objective was to build a place that focused on serving the community rather than on profit. The hall was modest in size but of great importance, being a cultural centre where people could gather, speak freely, dance, and enjoy music.

However, at the time, the church and local priests condemned Gralton's work, criticising those who frequented the hall and continuously attacking the space. On Christmas Eve of 1932, the hall burned to the ground in an arson attack, and, despite being born in Ireland, Jimmy was deported, being the only Irishman ever deported by the Irish Free State.

Eight local people have joined Guckian to right this wrong, honouring Jimmy Gralton. They wish to rebuild the hall where it originally stood, not as a museum but as a living space used for dancing, music sessions, classes, talks, film screenings, youth programs, and community gatherings.

The petition's goal is €26,000, standing at the moment over €12,000. Once enough funds have been raised, construction should begin on June 23 of this year.

This isn't the first time Gralton's history has been remembered and honoured, as Jimmy's Hall, directed by Ken Loach, depicts Jimmy's return to Ireland, after 10 years in exile in America, and his dedication to reopening the hall.

Watch the Jimmy's Hall trailer below:

You can donate to the campaign to rebuild Jimmy's Hall here.