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I LIKE THE OLD BANDSTAND

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BUSHY PARK DECEMBER 2024

The Bushy Park Bandstand: A History of Neglect and Renewal

Bushy Park, a beloved green space nestled in the heart of Terenure, Dublin, is home to a variety of attractions, including playing fields, walking trails, a picturesque duck pond, a children’s playground, an extensive wooded area with walks to the banks of the River Dodder, a woodland pond, and a recently reopened kiosk. Yet, amidst this vibrant landscape, an air of melancholy surrounds the old bandstand. Situated in an idyllic location near the duck pond, the bandstand has fallen into a state of dereliction, its once-proud structure now bearing the scars of time and neglect. This article delves into the history of the Bushy Park bandstand, exploring its origins, the reasons behind its decline, and the plans for its future.  

A Bandstand in Bushy Park

Before becoming the public park we know today, the land that now constitutes Bushy Park was part of a larger estate surrounding Bushy Park House. Built in the early eighteenth century, the house was home to several notable figures, including Sir Robert Shaw, a successful financier and politician. Shaw inherited the house through his wife, Maria Wilkinson, and during their time, the estate encompassed a vast area stretching from Rathfarnham to Crumlin. The house eventually passed down through the Shaw family to its final private owner, Mrs Frances Shaw, the grandmother of the renowned Irish playwright and polemicist George Bernard Shaw.  

In May 1960, the park officially opened to the public, marking a new chapter in its history. Designed to provide a variety of amenities for the community, the park included two pavilions, 16 hard courts, pitches for Gaelic football, football, and hockey, and, of course, the bandstand. It is believed that the bandstand was likely constructed around the same time as the park’s official opening. Built with masonry and painted in a deep green hue, the bandstand boasts a distinctive fan-shaped design that opens out at the base of a slope, creating a natural amphitheatre. This unique setting, with its gentle slopes and surrounding greenery, provided an ideal venue for musical performances and community gatherings, which was indeed its original purpose.  

A Period of Decline
Over the years, the bandstand has gradually fallen into disrepair. Despite its aesthetic appeal and attractive location, it has remained largely unused, its stage silent and its seating empty. A number of factors have contributed to this decline. While specific records or reports detailing the reasons for the bandstand’s neglect are unavailable, several contributing factors can be identified.  

Lack of Maintenance

The bandstand’s structure shows signs of deterioration, with peeling paint, weathered surfaces, and an overall air of neglect. This lack of upkeep has likely discouraged its use and contributed to its decline.  

Changing Entertainment Landscape

In the past, bandstands served as popular venues for community events and musical performances. However, with the rise of alternative entertainment options and the increasing availability of portable sound systems, the demand for traditional bandstands has diminished.  

Secluded Location

The bandstand’s location, while aesthetically pleasing, may have also contributed to its underutilisation. Situated in a relatively secluded area of the park, it may not have been easily accessible or visible to all park visitors. This lack of prominence could have further contributed to its decline.

The bandstand’s decline reflects a broader shift away from traditional community spaces and towards more individualised forms of entertainment, a trend observed in many parks and public spaces.

A New Chapter: Renovation and Renewal

Despite its years of neglect, the Bushy Park bandstand is not forgotten. In recent years, there has been a renewed interest in its potential, with plans for its renovation and revitalisation taking shape.

In 2019, a striking anamorphic mural was painted on the bandstand by the Dublin art group Subset. This vibrant artwork, titled “Please Stand By”, was inspired by the bandstand’s long period of disuse and aimed to breathe new life into the neglected structure. The mural, which creates a three-dimensional illusion when viewed from a specific angle, has become a popular attraction in the park, drawing attention to the bandstand and its potential. More than just a visual enhancement, the “Please Stand By” mural symbolises the community’s desire to re-engage with this forgotten space and reclaim it as a hub for creativity and expression. It serves as a powerful reminder of the potential for art to revitalise neglected spaces and inspire community engagement.  

Beyond the artistic intervention, there are more substantial plans for the bandstand’s future. Guided by the 2008 landscape masterplan for Bushy Park, Dublin City Council has commissioned Howley Hayes Architects to develop a design for the renovation of the bandstand. The project, which is being developed in the context of the park’s Landscape Masterplan and Management & Development Plan, aims to create a vibrant civic space for the park.  

The proposed renovation includes the removal of the existing roof, columns, and rear wall, and the addition of a new roof, backstage area, accessible ramp, lighting, and an enhanced stage element. The refurbishment will use a similar palette of materials to the proposed new tearoom, creating a cohesive and aesthetically pleasing design.  

These plans signal a new chapter for the Bushy Park bandstand. The renovation project, combined with the artistic intervention of the “Please Stand By” mural, promises to transform the derelict structure into a vibrant community space, once again fulfilling its original purpose as a venue for events and gatherings.

Stories, Events, and News Reports

While the bandstand itself may not have been the subject of extensive news coverage or local anecdotes, its story is intertwined with the history and development of Bushy Park. The park, with its rich past and diverse amenities, has been featured in various newspaper articles and reports.  

One notable news story highlighted the creation of the “Please Stand By” mural, showcasing the artistic transformation of the bandstand and its potential as a canvas for creative expression. Another article explored the history of Bushy Park, mentioning the bandstand as one of its key features and highlighting its aesthetic appeal within the park’s landscape. This article also mentions a curious feature near the bandstand known as the “Shell House”. This small, ruined structure is decorated inside with shells, mainly cockle shells, collected from various Dublin beaches. Although much of the plaster has fallen away, along with many of the shells, it remains an interesting testament to the park’s history and the creativity of its past inhabitants.  

While specific stories or anecdotes about the bandstand may be limited, its presence in the park has undoubtedly contributed to the memories and experiences of countless visitors over the years. Whether serving as a backdrop for leisurely walks, a meeting point for friends, or a source of curiosity for those intrigued by its history, the bandstand has played a silent yet significant role in the life of Bushy Park.

Conclusion

The Bushy Park bandstand stands as a testament to the changing times and the evolving needs of a community. Once a symbol of community spirit and entertainment, it fell into neglect, its potential obscured by years of disuse. However, with the recent artistic intervention and the planned renovation project, the bandstand is poised for a revival. Its transformation promises to bring new life to this forgotten corner of Bushy Park, creating a space for community engagement, artistic expression, and the enjoyment of the park’s natural beauty.

The bandstand’s story is a reminder that even in the face of decline, there is always hope for renewal. With careful planning, community involvement, and a touch of creativity, neglected spaces can be transformed into vibrant assets, enriching the lives of those who use them. The bandstand’s journey reflects broader themes of community development, historical preservation, and the importance of public spaces in fostering a sense of belonging and shared identity. Its revitalisation will not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of Bushy Park but also contribute to the well-being and social fabric of the surrounding community.

WHAT A SHAME – THE RATHFARNHAM VILLAGE POST OFFICE HAS BEEN SOLD

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20 DECEMBER 2024

I first photographed this attractive post office at Christmas in 2021. This time I had difficulty photographing the building because of some rather aggressive drivers who were blocked by a parked van.

The Rathfarnham Post Office: A History and Closure

Rathfarnham village, a charming suburb of Dublin, is known for its historic buildings and picturesque setting. Located within the historical baronies of Rathdown and Uppercross, the village has a rich past intertwined with the development of postal services in the area. Among its notable structures, the post office, with its attractive façade and prominent location on Main Street, has long been a focal point for the community. However, recent visitors to the village may have noticed a change – the post office has ceased trading, and an auctioneer’s ‘sale agreed’ sign now hangs outside. This article delves into the history of this local landmark and explores the reasons behind its closure.

Early Postal Services in Rathfarnham

While pinpointing the exact establishment date of a dedicated post office building in Rathfarnham is challenging with the available historical records, evidence suggests that postal services were operating in the village as far back as the 18th century. Documents from this period reveal the existence of a ‘Two Penny Post’ system in Dublin, with receiving offices established in various surrounding areas, including Rathfarnham . This system, which operated within a four-mile radius of the city, indicates that Rathfarnham was already integrated into the postal network of the time.  

By the 19th century, Rathfarnham, situated in the postal districts of Dublin 14 and 16 , was on the periphery of “the Pale”, the area around Dublin under Anglo-Norman control. As a key route for mail coaches travelling to and from Dublin, the village likely had a designated post office to handle mail and deliveries. This is supported by the presence of a “Dublin Milestone” on the Ballyboden Road in Rathfarnham, used to calculate postage distances . These milestones highlight the significance of Rathfarnham in the postal network of the time.  

Over the years, Rathfarnham has grown and evolved, with its Main Street becoming a bustling hub of shops, restaurants, pubs, and businesses . Located approximately 6.8km south of Dublin City and 4km northwest of Dundrum , or roughly 7km south of Dublin City Centre , the village enjoys a strategic position within the greater Dublin area. The post office, situated on this vibrant Main Street, played a vital role in connecting the community to the wider world. The building itself has a long history, having traded as the local post office for just over 90 years until its closure in 2023 .  

Reasons for Closure

The closure of the Rathfarnham post office can be primarily attributed to the unfortunate passing of the long-serving postmaster, Donal Bermingham . Following his death, An Post, the Irish postal service, made extensive efforts to find a new operator for the post office. They advertised the contract on three separate occasions , but no suitable candidates emerged. An Post also engaged with the Bermingham family, who owned the property, but they ultimately decided not to continue the business . This left An Post with no alternative but to close the office in 2023 and transfer customers to the Nutgrove post office .  

While the Rathfarnham closure stems from this specific circumstance, it also reflects a broader trend of post office closures in Ireland. An Post is actively seeking to secure long-term financial sustainability, and closures are part of this strategy . This raises questions about the balance between financial considerations and the needs of local communities. Interestingly, the closure comes at a time when An Post appears to be in a strong financial position. In the first half of 2024, parcel growth reached 18%, with parcels for Irish companies now on par with Amazon . Furthermore, An Post has repaid a €30m government loan, reducing its overall debt from €82m to €39m . This apparent contradiction between financial health and local closures has led many to question the logic of shutting down community post offices .

Community Impact and Future of the Building

The closure of the Rathfarnham post office has undoubtedly had an impact on the local community. Residents now face the inconvenience of travelling to the nearest post office in Nutgrove Shopping Centre, approximately 1.7km away . This is particularly challenging for elderly residents or those without personal transport, as it limits their access to essential services . While there are three post offices based in Rathfarnham – Ballyroan, Nutgrove Shopping Centre, and the now-closed Rathfarnham Village branch – the loss of the village post office is still felt by many.  

Local TD John Lahart has been actively involved in addressing the concerns of his constituents. He contacted both the CEO and Deputy CEO of An Post to highlight the significance of losing another post office in the constituency, particularly as Templeogue had also recently experienced a loss of postal services . He emphasised the importance of maintaining accessible postal services for the community .  

The building itself has been sold, with a guide price of €510,000 . The new owners’ plans for its future use remain unclear. However, given its prime location on Main Street, which is well-served by public transport with numerous Dublin Bus routes and easily accessible from the M50 motorway , it is likely to be redeveloped for commercial purposes . It currently houses a Montessori and a Physiotherapy Clinic , but its long-term future remains to be seen.

Conclusion

The closure of the Rathfarnham post office represents a loss for the village. For over 90 years, it served as a vital community hub, connecting residents to each other and the wider world. Its closure, while primarily driven by the unfortunate passing of the postmaster, also highlights the challenges faced by post offices in adapting to the modern era. The fact that An Post is closing local branches despite its apparent financial health raises questions about its commitment to community services. The impact of the closure is particularly significant for those who rely on the post office for essential services and have limited mobility. While the future of the building remains uncertain, its history as a community landmark will endure.

ANNE DEVLIN SCULPTURE IN RATHFARNHAM VILLAGE

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19 DECEMBER 2024

Anne Devlin: A Symbol of Resilience in Rathfarnham

On 25th February 2004, South Dublin County Council unveiled a statue of Anne Devlin, a key figure in the 1803 Rebellion, at the entrance to Rathfarnham Village. Positioned facing the Dublin Mountains, the statue portrays Devlin looking towards the horizon, a symbol of hope and the future.

Who was Anne Devlin?

Anne Devlin (c. 1780 – 1851) was born in Cronebeg, near Aughrim, County Wicklow. A cousin of United Irishmen leaders Michael Dwyer and Hugh Vesty Byrne, she became deeply involved in the republican movement. Despite coming from a relatively comfortable farming background, she dedicated herself to the cause of Irish freedom.

Devlin’s Role in the 1803 Rebellion

Following the failed 1798 Rebellion, Robert Emmet, a prominent leader of the United Irishmen, sought to reignite the fight for independence. He established a headquarters in a house on Butterfield Lane, Rathfarnham (then known as Butterfield Avenue), then a rural area, to prepare for a renewed uprising in 1803. Anne Devlin, though not directly Emmet’s housekeeper as is commonly believed, was indeed a very close associate, moving to this house with Emmet and his close allies to act as a housekeeper, a common way for revolutionaries to mask their activities.

Devlin’s role was far more crucial than that of a domestic servant. She acted as a trusted confidante and messenger, carrying vital communications between Emmet and other rebels. Her unwavering loyalty and courage were essential to the planning of the rebellion.

The Aftermath of the Rebellion

The 1803 Rebellion, launched on 23rd July, was a short-lived and ultimately unsuccessful attempt to overthrow British rule. Emmet was captured, tried for treason, and publicly executed on 20th September 1803 outside St. Catherine’s Church on Thomas Street, Dublin.

Anne Devlin was arrested shortly after the rising and imprisoned in Kilmainham Gaol. She endured brutal interrogations, including torture, and was offered substantial sums of money to betray her comrades. Despite the horrific conditions of her confinement, which included solitary confinement and psychological torment, Devlin refused to divulge any information. She remained steadfast in her loyalty, earning her a reputation as a symbol of resilience and unwavering dedication to the cause of Irish freedom.

On the day of Emmet’s execution, Devlin was subjected to a particularly cruel act of psychological torture. She was taken from her cell and brought in a carriage to Dublin Castle for questioning. On the way, the carriage was deliberately stopped outside St. Catherine’s Church, where Emmet had been executed, and Anne was forced to witness the aftermath, including the gruesome sight of animals licking up Emmet’s blood from the paving stones. This horrific experience is documented in historical accounts and highlights the lengths to which the authorities went to break her spirit.

Life After Imprisonment and Legacy

Devlin was eventually released from Kilmainham Gaol in 1806, possibly through the intervention of Dr. William Trevor, the prison doctor, who was sympathetic to her plight. However, she was a broken woman, physically and emotionally scarred by her experiences. She married William Campbell in 1811 and they had two known children, but she lived out her remaining years in poverty, working as a washerwoman in the Liberties area of Dublin. She died in 1851 and was initially buried in a pauper’s grave. Thanks to the efforts of historian Dr. Richard Robert Madden, who recognised her significance, her remains were later reinterred in Glasnevin Cemetery, a more fitting resting place for such a significant figure.

The Rathfarnham Statue: A Contested Memorial

The decision to erect a statue of Anne Devlin in Rathfarnham, rather than one of Robert Emmet, has been a subject of some debate. Emmet is undoubtedly a more widely recognised figure, and his connection to the area is well-established. However, the choice to honour Devlin highlights her crucial role in the 1803 Rebellion and recognises her extraordinary courage and sacrifice. It also serves as a reminder of the countless unsung heroes, particularly women, who played vital roles in Ireland’s struggle for independence.

The Statue’s Location and Significance

The statue’s location at the entrance to Rathfarnham Village is significant. It stands near the site of Emmet’s former headquarters on Butterfield Lane, marking the area’s connection to this pivotal moment in Irish history. The statue is a popular point of interest for locals and visitors alike and provides an opportunity for reflection on the events of 1803 and the individuals who risked everything for their beliefs.

The Statue’s Composition and Condition

While commonly referred to as bronze, the Anne Devlin statue is actually composed of fibreglass with a bronze resin finish. This technique creates the appearance of bronze at a lower cost and weight. This choice of material likely explains the visible wear and tear observed on the statue, as fibreglass is less durable than solid bronze. The statue, now over two decades old, has been exposed to the elements and shows signs of weathering, including fading of the bronze finish. It is also worth noting that the statue has been vandalised in the past and this has caused further damage to the sculpture.

Conclusion

The Anne Devlin statue in Rathfarnham is a powerful tribute to a remarkable woman whose courage and dedication continue to inspire. It stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of resistance and the pursuit of freedom, reminding us of the sacrifices made by those who fought for a better future for Ireland. The statue’s presence in Rathfarnham enriches the village’s historical landscape and provides a focal point for remembering a crucial period in Irish history.

CAPTAIN NEMO BY MARCIN KOLORSKI AT THE CLONTARF PUMP HOUSE

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2017 LEGACY PHOTO COLLECTION BY WILLIAM MURPHY

Artist:Marcin Kolorski
Artwork title:’Cruise with captain Nemo’
Location:Vernon Avenue, Clontarf Road, Dublin 3
Year:2017 – 2019
Artwork description: Onboard Nautilus with Captain Nemo Looking at the box from the street we have continuation/connection to the sea, bay and sailing yachts, while looking at the box from the water side, we see somehow from the deck of mentioned Nautilus.
Biography: “I am a Polish artist and graphic designer living in Dublin. By profession, I deal with, what is understood in general as graphic design. However, within my personal interests are many other aspects of art (such as movie/video art, painting). My artworks are displayed at the Museum of Posters in Warsaw, Tehran as well as in private collections.”

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NEW SONY A1 MkII ANNOUNCED TODAY 19 NOVEMBER

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I WAS WAITING FOR THIS TO ARRIVE

Sony just announced the Alpha 1 II, and it’s generating a lot of buzz in the photography world. Here’s a summary of what I know so far:

Key Features and Improvements:

Enhanced AI Processing: A new AI processing unit allows for significantly improved subject recognition and autofocus. This translates to:
30% improvement in eye detection for animals and humans.
50% boost in bird eye detection.
Faster Sensor Readout: This enables features like:
240 fps refresh rate in the electronic viewfinder (EVF) for smoother tracking.
“Pre-Capture” to capture moments before the shutter button is fully pressed.
“Speed Boost” for faster continuous shooting speeds.
Improved Image Quality: Expect better colour and noise handling, especially in JPEGs.
Upgraded Video Capabilities: The Alpha 1 II includes:
Support for importing and monitoring LUTs (Look-Up Tables) for more control over video colour grading.
Enhanced Design and Ergonomics: Sony has taken cues from the Alpha 9 III, resulting in:
A more comfortable grip.
An improved shutter button.
A new fully articulating screen.
An additional custom button (C5).
Improved In-Body Image Stabilisation: Up to 8.5 stops of stabilisation in the centre.
Why it Matters:

The original Alpha 1 was already a groundbreaking camera, pushing the boundaries of speed and resolution. This second generation builds upon that foundation, refining existing features and adding new ones based on user feedback. It seems like Sony is aiming to solidify its position at the top of the full-frame mirrorless camera market.

Who is it for?

The Alpha 1 II is clearly targeted at professional photographers and videographers who demand the absolute best in terms of performance, image quality, and versatility. This includes:

Sports and wildlife photographers who need high-speed shooting and exceptional autofocus.
Wedding and portrait photographers who require high resolution and reliable performance.
Videographers who want a camera capable of capturing high-quality footage with advanced features.

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Sony Alpha 1 Full-frame Interchangeable Lens Mirrorless Camera
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  • 8x more powerful, next generation BIONZ XR image processing engine
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  • World’s first 240 fps refresh rate, 9.44M dot 0.64” QXGA OLED EVF
  • World’s first anti-flicker mechanical and electronic shutter
$4,998.00
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