The Jeanie Johnston is a stunning replica of a 19th century sailing ship , one of the last of its kind before the steam ship era dawned . During the 1840's and 1850's Ireland was devastated by famine and disease resulting in mass emigration . In all Jeanie Johnston carried over 2 , 500 people on 16 voyages to North America . On bank of the river Lee . City of Cork . Co Cork . Ireland .