New Down County Museum Exhibition Focuses on Down in the 1980s

A new exhibition entitled Partying Down in the 1980s opens at the Down County Museum in Downpatrick on 17 April providing a unique opportunity for people to step back in time and reminisce.

Considered one of the most iconic decades of the 20th century, the 1980s is remembered for its bold fashions, big hair and experimental music. In County Down, these global trends met the complex realities of the Troubles, shaping everyday life in unique and powerful ways.

During the 80s, the people of Down embraced a world that was rapidly evolving. New technologies arrived, nightlife flourished and local sporting achievements brought communities together.

During the exhibition, there will be a chance to view an iconic Ford Sierra Cosworth car and film posters from the town’s former Grand Cinema in Market Street and a 1984 Skyway BMX bicycle.

Opened by Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Councillor Philip Campbell, the exhibition will feature an array of artefacts and images and general 1980s nostalgia, including posters and records from local bands including Rosetta Stone and Preacher John.

Hit US television series Dynasty was famous for many things, including the renaissance of shoulder pads in the 80s which became the must have women’s clothing accessory across the globe. And the shoulder pads were also front and centre in local fashion, with the new exhibition displaying some adverts from local womenswear retailers.

The 1980s was also famous for the Punk revolution, with Laura Ashley one of the leading names in home décor, with the new museum exhibition providing a snapshot of what was a defining decade for many across the district.

The Rubik Cube was all the rage in the 80s and the Pac Man arcade game was released. ET and Back to the Future were box office smashes at the cinema and the first mobile phone calls were made in the UK.

Councillor Campbell said he is looking forward to viewing the new exhibition on what is widely regarded as one of the most influential decades in history and the impact it had locally.

“We have all seen footage of what life was like in the 1980s and now there is an opportunity to get up close and personal with an array of memorabilia from this decade,” he said.

“The exhibition will be a step back in time, not only for those who lived through this period, but for today’s younger generation to get a flavour of what life was like when their parents and grandparents were shaping their own futures as they navigated a rapidly changing world.”

The Council Chairperson added: “The new exhibition explores what life was really like during the 1980s and how, against all odds, it may have been Down’s most unforgettable decade. It will generate much interest and debate.

“Our museums in Downpatrick and Newry are a vital resource and in the last year attracted more than 23,000 visitors, providing a window to the past through exhibitions and activities. They play an invaluable role for us all to contact with our history.” 

The new Partying Down in the 1980s exhibition opens at 10am on 17 April.

The Down County Museum is open from Tuesday to Saturday between 10am and 4.30pm and entry is free.