
Tom Hanley, a member of the Order of Malta for 50 years, and Naomi O’Nolan, Head of Exhibitions and Collections at The Hunt Museum, discuss ‘Of Nursing and Knighthood’ – an exhibition celebrating 70 years of the Order of Malta in Limerick.
Video courtesy of Cian Reinhardt, Limerick Post. Read the full Limerick Post article here.

The Maltese cross is the cross symbol associated with the Order of Malta since 1567, with the Knights Hospitaller and by extension with the island of Malta. The cross is a white, eight-pointed cross having the form of four “V”-shaped elements, each joining the others at its vertex, leaving the other two tips spread outward symmetrically. This is placed on a red background or worn on a black mantle. The term is often wrongly applied to all forms of eight-pointed crosses irrespective of colour or background.

The Uniform of The Order of Malta – The original uniform of the order of Malta was a red tunic with striped trousers and knights sword. (First image) This was was worn widely across Europe when initially formed. The uniform most commonly worn is today the working uniform (Fourth Image) which consists of a dark grey. Members may also wear a dress uniform on formal occasions. This consists of a military pattern tunic and trousers in grey, a white shirt and black tie and black shoes.

The original list of members for the Order of Malta Limerick 
The Order of Malta Limerick at Shannon Airport 
Order of Malta parade in Limerick c. 1950 
The papal visit commemorative medal certificate issued in Limerick. 
Medical equipment from the 40s - Smelling salts, gauze and bandage 
Order of Malta Limerick Cadets

A commemorative document marking the inauguration of the Order of Malta Ambulance Corps in Limerick, 1948. Features historical text, emblem, and two black-and-white photos of group events. The tone is formal, celebrating a historic milestone. Keywords: Order of Malta, Ambulance Corps, Limerick, 1948. 
A collage of historical black-and-white photos shows Order of Malta members in Limerick, Ireland, from 1948-2018, assisting the elderly, in pilgrimages, and erecting a tent, emphasizing community service and care. 
Newspaper-style image highlights a mayoral election victory. Includes black-and-white photo of people in uniform and a man with a chain. Text details historical context. 
A historical poster for the Order of Malta in Limerick, 1948-2018. It features parade photos with members in uniform and accompanying text describing their activities in the 70s and 80s, such as First Aid and involvement in St. Patrick’s Day and Christmas Charity events. 
Historical poster titled "Order of Malta Ambulance Corps Limerick 1948-2018" with two black and white photos of uniformed members, featuring both men and women. Text discusses the establishment of "St. John House" in Limerick and mentions a member, Mary Theresa Power. The tone is informative and celebratory, highlighting the organization's local impact and history. 
A collage of images and text about the Order of Malta in Limerick. Key visuals include a building, historical details, and progress photos from 1948 to 2018. Tone is informative and reflective, highlighting charitable work and renovations. 
A poster about the Order of Malta's food bank highlights historical details with images of St. Vincent de Paul and volunteers distributing food to the needy. 
Commemorative plaque depicting the history of the Order of Malta in Limerick, 1948–2018. Two images show a large building and a ceremonial group. Text details the establishment and contributions of the Order, highlighting historical milestones and their community impact. The tone is informative and celebratory.













