General Michael Collins (1890 -1922), Irish revolutionary and Chairman of the Provisional Government, was born on the 16th of October 1890 at Woodfield near Clonakilty and was one of the leading figures during the Irish struggle for independence from Britain. He was assassinated at Béal na Bláth County Cork, during the Civil War in August 1922.

At the Michael Collins Centre visitors can enjoy live illustrated presentations, audiovisuals and an impressive exhibition of Michael Collins artifacts, memorabilia, militaria and photographs. The audiovisuals include two films: one explores the sites in West Cork associated with Michael Collins and the other is a collection of archive footage and audio recordings.

As well as the Michael Collins exhibition, the Centre has smaller displays on two other historically significant figures with local connections: Henry Ford and former US President, John F. Kennedy. More Irish fought and died in the American Civil War, than in the Irish Civil War. You could argue that the American Civil War was part of the lead up to the Irish revolutionary period. Michael Collins Centre also has a small American Civil War collection.