Mass Grave Excavations at Irish Catholic Home Decades After Discovery
In Tuam, Ireland, a mass grave containing the remains of nearly 800 infants and young children was discovered at a former mother-and-baby home. This grim find prompted a national inquiry into the mistreatment of unmarried mothers and their children by the church and state. Local historian Catherine Corless uncovered the disturbing history, revealing high death rates and the shameful burial practices of the Bon Secours Sisters. The excavation of the site, now underway, seeks to identify the remains and provide dignity to those denied it in life and death, though the government report blamed the mothers and families, and the institutions were considered refuge.
John Q. Hosedrinker