Join us
Orange welcome sign that reads Royal Geographical Society with IBG.

Become a member and discover where geography can take you.

Join us

An illustrated talk on the international nature of the Irish Linen trade in the days when Belfast was known as Linenopolis. From Bombay to Buenos Aires, from Syria to Uruguay, Irish linen cloth and thread were held in high esteem.

About the speaker

Textile specialist Fiona McKelvie has had a career in textiles for more than 30 years, much of that time with Liberty of London. Originally from Belfast, she has a particular interest in Irish Linen and is fascinated by the history and heritage of the industry.

Fiona now specialises in the sale of antique and vintage Irish linens, has participated in the British Textile Biennial via the Cloth Cultures podcast with textile historian Amber Butchart and recently contributed to an episode of the Haptic and Hue podcast investigating the history of Irish Linen. 

Booking information

  • Advance booking for this event is not required.

If you have any questions please email events@rgs.org

This event has been organised by the Northern Ireland committee.

Venue information

This event will be held in the Geography Department, School of Natural Built Environment, at Queen’s University, Elmwood Avenue, Belfast, BT9 6AY.

You may also be interested in...

  • LectureAerial view of a boat on a green river.

    Lough Neagh an ecosystem in peril?

    The UK's largest freshwater lake is turning green. Richard Buchanan explores if we are doing enough to rescue this ecosystem in peril.

Key Information

Open to all
15 May 2025, 7.00pm-9.00pm
Queen's University Belfast

Free