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Sat 05 May 2007Hitler's eyes in IrelandHistoryAdolf Mahr came to Ireland in 1927 as keeper of Irish antiquities in the National Museum. Although not a trained archaeologist, he made a considerable impression both as a scholar and as a promoter of archaeological research, encouraging a major initiative by Harvard University.In 1934, he became director of the National Museum. It is said that his appointment was resented because of an overbearing and didactic manner, but such claims owe much to retrospective political typecasting. Mahr was a good candidate, and his directorship was characterised by his energetic approach to exploring and conserving Ireland's archaeological heritage. By 1939, he was an archaeologist of international standing. But Mahr, born in Austria to Sudeten German parents, was also a dedicated Nazi, who joined the party on April 1st, 1933, and a year later formed an Irish branch. He became its official leader.