‘The Gift’ Honours Choctaws

A life-size bronze sculpture titled “The Gift”, which commemorates the generous aid provided by the Choctaw Nation to Ireland during the Famine, has been unveiled outside the National Famine Museum at Strokestown Park, Roscommon.

American sculptor Brendan O’Neill, based in Maryland, USA, sculpted “The Gift”, which is a replica of his original piece displayed at the Choctaw Cultural Centre in Oklahoma. The sculpture, generously donated by the O’Neill Family, is now permanently installed in the courtyard adjacent to Ireland’s National Famine Museum, which offers insights into one of the most significant periods in Irish history. 

The poignant artwork, measuring 29 inches tall and 41 inches wide, depicts an elderly Choctaw woman, symbolising the matriarchal structure of the Choctaw society, and a younger Choctaw man embracing her in a gesture of support and protection. Together, they extend a hand of friendship to the Irish people. The woman holds an “ampo” eating bowl, symbolising sustenance and nourishment.

Brendan O’Neill has created numerous bronze sculptures for various institutions, including the State of Maryland, Indiana University, schools, Native American reservations and cultural centres.

John O’Driscoll, Irish Heritage Trust General Manager at Strokestown Park & the National Famine Museum, said:

“We are honoured to receive this historically significant sculpture here in the National Famine Museum, Strokestown Park. This is a fitting location for this meaningful artwork, offering visitors a space for, and appreciation of, the historical bond between the Choctaw Nation and the Irish people before entering the Museum, which offers a deeply moving account of the Great Irish Famine.”