PHOTOGRAPHED CHRISTMAS 2012 PUBLISHED AUGUST 2024
Canning Place and Rowan Terrace in Newbridge: A History Untouched by Floods (as of Christmas 2012)
Canning Place and Rowan Terrace, nestled along the banks of the River Liffey in Newbridge, might seem vulnerable to flooding due to their proximity to the water. However, as of Christmas 2012, no concrete reports or documented instances of flooding specifically impacting these streets have been found.
The Birth of Newbridge: From Barracks to Bustling Town
The modern town of Newbridge owes its origins to the establishment of the Cavalry Barracks between 1815 and 1819. The land for the barracks was purchased from three local landlords: Eyre Powell of Great Connell, Ponsonby Moore of Moorefield, and William Hannon of Kilbelin. The original barracks spanned a vast area, stretching from the River Liffey to Cutlery Road, and from Main Street to Military Road. Today, only remnants of its past glory remain, including old walls and gateways on Athgarvan Road and Cutlery Road. The iconic “Watering Gates” at the entrance to the Town Park were also part of the original barracks complex.
Eyre Powell generously donated land north of the new high road, facilitating the construction of houses and shops to cater to the needs of the burgeoning barracks community. Main Street began to take shape concurrently with the barracks construction. From 1819 onwards, various Cavalry Regiments were stationed in Newbridge, transforming it into a thriving business hub.