Infomatique

THE STREET AND THE AREA AND THE RELATIONSHIP WITH STONEYBATTER

October 29, 2024 by infomatique

ARBOUR HILL 10 OCTOBER 2024

Arbour Hill in Dublin 7 is both a street and a small area located on the Northside of Dublin city, within the inner city and specifically in Dublin 7.

Arbour Hill the street runs west from Blackhall Place in Stoneybatter and is perhaps most notable for being the location of Arbour Hill Prison, a medium security prison for adult males. The prison is also the site of the 1916 Easter Rising leaders’ burial ground, adding a significant historical dimension to the street. St. Bricin’s Military Hospital is also located on the street.

Arbour Hill the area is slightly more ambiguous in its definition. While it certainly encompasses the street itself, it also seems to refer to the immediate vicinity, including the prison, the hospital, and some surrounding residential properties. It is bordered to the south by Collins Barracks, which houses part of the National Museum of Ireland.

Relationship to Stoneybatter: Arbour Hill is generally considered a distinct area from Stoneybatter, although it sits right on its edge. Stoneybatter tends to be associated with the vibrant village atmosphere centred around Manor Street and the surrounding residential streets. Arbour Hill, with its prison and military history, has a somewhat different character. The boundary between the two is not officially defined but is generally understood to be around Blackhall Place, where Arbour Hill street begins.

Historical Differences: Stoneybatter has a longer history, with evidence of settlement dating back to the Viking era. It developed as a working-class neighbourhood with a strong community spirit. Arbour Hill, on the other hand, is more associated with military and prison history. The construction of the prison in the late 18th century and the subsequent execution and burial of the 1916 leaders there have shaped its identity.

Present-day desirability: Stoneybatter has undergone significant gentrification in recent years, becoming a highly sought-after area with trendy cafes, restaurants, and a thriving arts scene. Property prices in Stoneybatter have risen considerably, reflecting its popularity. Arbour Hill, while still a desirable location due to its proximity to the city centre and amenities, has not experienced the same level of gentrification and price increases. The presence of the prison may be a factor in this.

The Stoneybatter Greening Strategy is an ongoing initiative by Dublin City Council to enhance the green infrastructure and public realm of the Stoneybatter neighbourhood and nearby.

When did it begin?

The programme commenced in 2019 with a consultation process involving local residents, community groups, and stakeholders. This collaborative approach aimed to co-design solutions and ensure the strategy reflected the needs and desires of the community.

What was its scope?

The strategy focuses on increasing the availability of green spaces, trees, and nature within Stoneybatter.

This includes:

Tree planting: Increasing the number of trees throughout the area, including on streets, in parks, and in other public spaces.
Pocket parks: Creating small, accessible green spaces within the urban fabric, providing areas for relaxation and biodiversity.
Green infrastructure: Implementing sustainable urban drainage systems (SuDS) to manage rainwater and enhance the ecological value of the area.
Traffic calming: Exploring measures to reduce traffic volume and speed, creating a safer and more pedestrian-friendly environment.
Community gardens: Supporting the development of community gardens, providing opportunities for residents to grow food and connect with nature.
Has it been completed?

The Stoneybatter Greening Strategy is an ongoing project, with work continuing in phases. While some elements have been completed, such as the creation of pocket parks and the planting of trees on certain streets, other aspects are still in progress or in the planning stages.

Is work still ongoing?

Yes, Dublin City Council is actively implementing the strategy. Recent updates indicate ongoing work on projects like:

Cowper Street Green School Zone: Improving the environment around a local school.
Moira Road Pocket Park: Creating a new green space.
Tree planting: Continuing to plant trees on various streets.
Park improvements: Upgrading existing parks and green spaces.
The Council continues to engage with the community and provide updates on the progress of the strategy. You can find more information on the Dublin City Council website and through local community groups.

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MOUNTPELIER HILL NOT WHERE THE HELLFIRE CLUB IS LOCATED

October 29, 2024 by infomatique

A DUBLIN D7 STREET WITH A STORY TO TELL

It’s easy to confuse Montpelier Hill in Dublin 7 with its more famous namesake – the mountain crowned by the infamous Hellfire Club. However, this Montpelier Hill offers a unique blend of history, community spirit, and urban renewal.

This vital east-west route is undergoing a transformation, thanks to the Stoneybatter Greening Strategy and Dublin City Council initiatives.

A Greener, Safer, and More Sustainable Street

The project focuses on improving the streetscape for residents and visitors alike:

Sustainable Drainage: Innovative rain gardens are being implemented to manage rainwater run-off, easing pressure on the city’s drainage system and promoting a healthier environment.
Urban Greening: Newly planted trees will enhance air quality, provide welcome shade, and create a more inviting atmosphere.
Traffic Calming: Road narrowing and clear markings aim to reduce vehicle speeds, prioritising pedestrian and cyclist safety.
Pedestrian Priority: Wider footpaths will enhance accessibility and comfort for those on foot.
Benefits for the Community

This revitalisation project offers numerous benefits:

Environmental Sustainability: The rain gardens and tree planting contribute to a greener, more resilient urban environment.
Enhanced Safety: Traffic calming measures and wider footpaths improve safety for all road users.
Improved Streetscape: The project aims to create a more visually appealing and welcoming street.
A Street with Stories to Tell

Montpelier Hill is more than just bricks and mortar; it’s a place with a rich history and a strong community spirit.

“To Jenny”: A Reminder of Community Action: Though the artwork is gone, the words “To Jenny” remain at the corner of Montpelier Hill and Infirmary Road. This inscription commemorates a remarkable campaign led by Jenny and a group of local women who, from 2003 to 2006, took a stand against kerb crawlers in the area. Their nightly vigils (except for Bingo Tuesdays!) served as a warning to those exploiting vulnerable women and ultimately contributed to a change in legislation in 2017, criminalising the purchase of sex.

Cambridge House: Awaiting its Renaissance: Just off Infirmary Road stands Cambridge House, a grand period residence dating back to the 18th century. This imposing building, now in need of restoration, was once home to Prince Adolphus, the 2nd Duke of Cambridge and Commander of the Armed Forces in Dublin (1846-1851). With its high ceilings, tall sash windows, and elegant proportions, Cambridge House holds the potential to be restored to its former glory. It presents a unique opportunity for conservationists and history enthusiasts to preserve a tangible link to Dublin’s past.

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ARBOUR HILL CEMETERY AND 1916 MEMORIAL

October 28, 2024 by infomatique

PHOTOGRAPHED 10 OCTOBER 2024

What was once a parade ground for the Arbour Hill prison is now the burial plot of 14 of the leaders of the 1916 Easter Rising, the armed insurrection that eventually led to the establishment of an independent Irish Republic.

Arbour Hill in Dublin holds a profound place in Irish history, particularly in relation to the 1916 Easter Rising. It is the site of a military cemetery, where fourteen of the executed leaders of the Rising are laid to rest.

The 1916 Memorials at Arbour Hill

The central memorial at Arbour Hill is a large, curved wall constructed from Wicklow Ardbraccan limestone. This wall features the full text of the 1916 Proclamation of the Irish Republic, meticulously hand-carved by sculptor Michael Biggs. The proclamation, a powerful declaration of Irish independence, stands as a testament to the ideals that motivated the Rising.

Before this imposing wall lies a simple, unadorned plot containing the remains of the fourteen executed leaders. Their names are individually inscribed on the stone kerbing that surrounds this plot. This design choice allows for individual recognition while still powerfully conveying the message of their collective sacrifice for the cause of Irish freedom.

The adjacent Church of the Sacred Heart, originally the chapel for Arbour Hill Prison, also plays a role in commemorating the 1916 leaders. An annual commemoration ceremony is held here every May, hosted by the Minister for Defence. This ceremony includes a Requiem Mass and ceremonies at the gravesite, honouring the memory of those who gave their lives for Ireland.

History of Arbour Hill

During British Rule, Arbour Hill served primarily as a military site. The prison, built in 1796, initially housed British soldiers. However, its purpose shifted dramatically following the 1916 Rising. The leaders of the rebellion were held and court-martialled at Richmond Barracks before being transferred to Kilmainham Gaol for execution. Their bodies were then brought to Arbour Hill for burial in a mass grave.

After Ireland achieved independence, Arbour Hill continued to be used as a military cemetery and barracks. However, its significance as a place of national remembrance grew. The 1916 Proclamation memorial was added in 1964, further solidifying its status as a place of pilgrimage for those wishing to honour the leaders of the Rising.

Today, Arbour Hill stands as a powerful reminder of Ireland’s fight for independence. It is a place where history and memory converge, offering visitors a space to reflect on the sacrifices made in the pursuit of freedom.

Arbour Hill Cemetery isn’t solely the resting place of the 1916 leaders. It also holds the remains of over 4,000 British military personnel and their families, a testament to its long history as a military site.

Detailed records about individual graves within the older section of the cemetery are not readily available online. However, here’s what I’ve been able to gather:

Maintenance: While the 1916 memorial site is meticulously maintained, the older section with the British graves appears to receive less attention but is nevertheless well maintained. This is likely due to a combination of factors, including the sheer number of graves, their age, and potentially, limited resources. It should be mentioned that a large number of old British regiment headstones are now placed along the boundary walls to the right from the gate lodge toward the building, Arbour House, that now houses the Irish United Nations Veterans Association.

Responsibility: The Office of Public Works (OPW) is responsible for the upkeep of the 1916 memorial site. It’s likely they also have some responsibility for the older section of the cemetery, but the exact level of maintenance they provide is unclear.

Commonwealth War Graves Commission (CWGC): The CWGC is responsible for commemorating Commonwealth war dead. While they don’t appear to have direct responsibility for Arbour Hill, they may have records of those buried there who died in service during the World Wars.

SEAN HEUSTON MEMORIAL STATUE AT THE PEOPLES FLOWER GARDEN IN PHOENIX PARK

October 28, 2024 by infomatique

PHOTOGRAPHED 10 OCTOBER 2024

The Seán Heuston Memorial Statue is a tribute to Seán Heuston (1891-1916), one of the leaders of the 1916 Easter Rising in Dublin. He was executed for his role in the rebellion against British rule, and the statue serves as a reminder of his sacrifice and contribution to Irish independence.

Here’s what you should know about the statue:

Location and Legacy: It stands proudly in the People’s Garden within Phoenix Park, Dublin. This location is significant as it’s a popular public space, ensuring the memorial is accessible to all. Furthermore, Heuston’s legacy is cemented by the nearby Heuston Station, Dublin’s largest railway station. Originally named Kingsbridge Station, it was renamed in 1966 on the 50th anniversary of the Easter Rising to honour Seán Heuston, who had worked as a clerk at the station before the Rising and commanded a nearby post during the rebellion.

Appearance: The statue is a full-length standing figure of Seán Heuston, depicted in his Irish Volunteers uniform. It is made from stone and stands on a granite pedestal. It was created by the Irish sculptor, Laurence Campbell, and unveiled in 1943.

Symbolism: The statue is more than just a likeness of Heuston. It symbolises the courage and determination of those who fought for Irish independence. It also serves as a place for reflection and remembrance.

Historical Context: Heuston was Commandant of the Irish Volunteers and held the Mendicity Institution during the Rising. Though only intended as a minor position to disrupt British troops, Heuston and his men held out for two days despite being heavily outnumbered. This act of defiance, though ultimately ending in surrender and his execution, contributed to the momentum of the rebellion and the eventual establishment of the Irish Republic.

EXPLORING THE MILL LANE IN PALMERSTOWN 22 OCTOBER 2024

October 26, 2024 by infomatique

DESPITE THE CHALLENGE OF RESTRICTED ACCESS

I would describe Mill Land as a complex consisting of a number of branches some with limited public access.

Despite its rich industrial, ecclesiastical, and architectural heritage spanning centuries, much of Old Palmerstown’s historical significance remains hidden from public view. Many sites of interest in the area are located on private property, presenting a challenge for those wishing to explore, especially if one has a large professional camera.

During my recent visit on 22nd October 2024, I was able to access the old church ruins and graveyard, but further exploration towards the old bridge proved impossible. This bridge, constructed in 1881 by Edward Cecil Guinness (Lord Iveagh), was built to transport water from the Liffey (via a nearby pumping station) to the striking water tower on his Farmleigh Estate. I remain hopeful that future visits will allow me to access to this fascinating structure.

My journey began at the imposing gates of Stewart’s Hospital, situated on the Old Lucan Road (formerly part of the Galway Road). While public access through these gates is restricted, “Buck House”, a gate lodge dating back to 1850, can be glimpsed from the road.

At the junction of Mill Lane and the Old Lucan Road stands “the Coach House”. While its name suggests its original purpose, it now serves as part of Stewart’s Hospital, offering sheltered employment for individuals with learning disabilities. Nearby, a weathered milestone, likely over two centuries old, stands as a silent testament to the area’s history, its inscription sadly eroded by time [I forgot to photograph it as I was distracted by someone asking me about my camera … it was a worthwhile conversation].

Continuing down Mill Lane, I encountered another entrance to Stewart’s Hospital, again barring public access. This unfortunately restricted my exploration of at least one branch of the lane.

Past Palmerstown FC, the road takes a sharp left turn. Just before this bend lies a terrace of cottages built in 1885, remnants of the original Palmerstown Village. The end house is believed to have been the village tavern. A narrow path, May And Shanks Way, at its gable end leads to a gap (often obstructed) which provides access to a “disputed” right of way. This path, once the route to the ferry service connecting old Palmerstown Village to the Strawberry Beds, holds historical significance. It passes the ruins of Stacgory Church and its ancient cemetery, with origins tracing back to the Norman invasion. The original Norman church was replaced by another (possibly in 1220), with the current ruins dating from around 1670.

Although I didn’t explore the Liffey Valley on this occasion, it offers captivating views, including the elegant white latticework bridge spanning the river. This bridge, commissioned by Lord Iveagh in 1881, played a crucial role in supplying water to his Farmleigh Estate.

Additional Information about Mill Lane and Stewart’s Hospital:

A self-appointed local historian told me with great confidence the hospital was founded in 1867 by Martha Stewart. But, to be fair, much of the information provided was usefully if not a hundred percent accurate.

Mill Lane: This historic lane takes its name from the watermills that once thrived along the Liffey in Palmerstown. These mills played a vital role in the local economy, processing everything from grain to textiles. Evidence of this industrial past can still be found in the remnants of mill buildings and associated structures.

Stewart’s Hospital: Founded in 1867 by Dr. Henry Hutchinson Stewart, a prominent Dublin physician and philanthropist, this institution initially catered to orphaned and destitute girls. It later evolved into a school and residential care facility for children with intellectual disabilities. The hospital grounds encompass a significant portion of Mill Lane, including several of its branches, contributing to the access restrictions in the area. The hospital continues to provide vital services and support to this day.