About the Maud Gonne Society

The Maud Gonne Society, founded by author Orna Ross, is a dynamic coalition of artists, historians, and activists dedicated to reclaiming the legacy of one of Ireland’s most formidable founding figures.

For over a century, history has structurally narrowed Maud Gonne’s grand life down to a singular, passive title: W.B. Yeats’s romantic muse. We are here to adjust that lens.

Born of a radical social conscience, Maud Gonne spent six decades fighting at the front lines of Irish independence, championing human rights, and speaking out for the most vulnerable—particularly women, children, and political prisoners. From founding Inghinidhe na hÉireann (Daughters of Ireland) to organizing major relief movements, she was a pioneering activist, an unyielding freelance political organizer, and a cultural force in the Irish Literary Renaissance.

Through literature, a commemorative statue campaign, and community engagement, the Society exists to ensure that her radical spirit, complex politics, and immense achievements are permanently woven back into Ireland's national story.

About Maud Gonne

Most people know Maud Gonne from the poetry she inspired in Ireland’s national poet, WB Yeats, but Gonne was muse to many others too.

Politically radicalised aged 19 by  a heartless eviction, Maud Gonne devoted herself for six decades to speaking for the voiceless, fighting injustice, and championing true freedom for the Irish people, particularly women, children, and prisoners.

She also participated in the Irish literary renaissance as artist, writer, performer, and patron.

And was a philanthropist to a wide variety of causes, from the United Irishman nationalist newspaper to theatre performances through the women’s group she founded, Inghinidhe na hEireann (Daughters of Ireland).

A muse to many and in every sense of the word. 

Our society is dedicated to ensuring that her legacy lives on in Ireland and around the world.

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