THE ORIGINAL RIFLE WAS BRONZE RATHER THAN STONE
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Remembering the Past: The Irish Volunteers Memorial and Blaquiere Bridge
As I passed the construction site beside the Irish Volunteers Memorial on a bus, I was intrigued and planned to return to photograph it in detail. However, during my initial visit to the general area, I noticed a gentleman on a bicycle shadowing me. Consequently, I decided to cut my visit short and postpone my photography project until May [2025], after conducting some preliminary research.
The Irish Volunteers Memorial at Blaquiere Bridge
Description and Dedication
At the entrance to the Linear Park, which now occupies the site of the former Blaquiere Bridge, stands a memorial dedicated to the Dublin Brigade of the Irish Volunteers. This poignant monument, possibly specifically honouring C Company, 1st Battalion, IRA, serves as a reminder of a significant period in Irish history. Unveiled on 19th February 1939, the base of the statue features depictions of scenes from Celtic mythology, adding an artistic and cultural dimension to the commemoration.
The memorial honours the Dublin Brigade of the Irish Volunteers for their crucial role in the events leading up to and during the Easter Rising of 1916 and the subsequent War of Independence – pivotal moments in Ireland’s struggle for independence from British rule. Notably, members of the Dublin Brigade attempted to occupy Broadstone Railway Station during the Easter Rising, highlighting the strategic importance of infrastructure during this period of conflict. The memorial at Blaquiere Bridge acts as a local tribute to the Dublin individuals who participated in this national movement for self-determination.
Past Vandalism and Restoration
Historical records document an instance of vandalism affecting the Irish Volunteers Memorial at Blaquiere Bridge. Accounts confirm that the statue was vandalised in the 1970s, resulting in the removal of the original bronze rifle held by the Volunteer figure. For a considerable period, the statue stood without its rifle until restoration work was carried out in the early 1990s. During this restoration, the missing bronze rifle was replaced with a new one crafted from stone. This history of vandalism and subsequent restoration underscores the monument’s vulnerability and the ongoing need for its monitoring and protection.
Significance of the Location
The choice of location for the Irish Volunteers Memorial at the entrance to the Linear Park, on the site of the former Blaquiere Bridge and the infilled Royal Canal, is likely significant. It connects the memory of Ireland’s fight for independence with the historical landscape of the area, once characterised by its waterways and transportation links. The bridge, symbolising connection and passage, provides a fitting backdrop for a memorial commemorating a transformative period in Irish history.
Blaquiere Bridge: A Historical Context
Urban Development and Historical Significance
Blaquiere Bridge holds a significant place in Dublin’s historical development. Situated in the Phibsborough area and connected to the North Circular Road, its history is intrinsically linked to the growth of key infrastructure that shaped the city. It once spanned a city spur of the Royal Canal, a vital waterway in Dublin’s transportation network, and is associated with the nearby Broadstone Railway Station, a major 19th-century transport hub.
Beyond its infrastructural importance, Blaquiere Bridge is also a site of remembrance, marked by the Irish Volunteers Memorial. Adding another layer to its historical context is the presence of the “Inns Quay Ward” milestone, a remnant of Dublin’s former administrative divisions, suggesting a connection to local governance. The convergence of transportation, commemoration, and administration underscores the rich and multifaceted history of Blaquiere Bridge and its surroundings.
Origins and Construction
Naming and John Blaquiere: Blaquiere Bridge is named after John Blaquiere (1732 – 1812), a prominent late 18th-century figure in Ireland who served as a British soldier, diplomat, and Chief Secretary for Ireland (1772-1777). His French Huguenot heritage is notable, as this community significantly influenced Dublin’s economic and social fabric. Given his influential position during a period of burgeoning canal development, the bridge’s naming likely recognised his service or potential association with projects like the Royal Canal. The Huguenot community’s contributions to Dublin may have also played a part.
Construction and Original Purpose: Historical records indicate Blaquiere Bridge was constructed in July 1791, aligning with the active development of the Royal Canal in Dublin. Its original purpose was to facilitate road traffic passage over the Royal Canal’s city spur where it intersected with the North Circular Road, ensuring the new waterway did not disrupt an existing thoroughfare. Early 19th-century maps and illustrations provide visual evidence of the bridge’s existence within the developing urban landscape.
Evolution of the Structure: While the original construction materials are not explicitly stated, stone or brick were likely used. The present structure might be a later replacement, possibly dating to the late 1930s, coinciding with other canal bridge reconstructions in Dublin. A significant change occurred with the infilling of the Royal Canal’s Broadstone Line in the 1920s and 1930s, transforming Blaquiere Bridge from spanning water to crossing dry land, which later became a linear park. Remnants of the original bridge structure may still exist below ground.
Blaquiere Bridge and the Royal Canal: A Vital Link
The Broadstone Line: The Broadstone Line was a crucial spur of the Royal Canal, connecting the waterway to Broadstone Harbour. Blaquiere Bridge was strategically located where this line crossed the North Circular Road, ensuring uninterrupted road traffic. Historical accounts depict canal boats, including those carrying turf, using this section, with the bridge as a vantage point. The Broadstone Line’s function highlighted the Royal Canal’s intended role in facilitating trade and transport within Dublin.
Historical Significance for Transportation and Trade: The Royal Canal, including the Broadstone Line, was vital for transportation and trade in Dublin and surrounding areas, facilitating the movement of freight and passengers between Dublin and the west of Ireland. Broadstone Harbour was a significant hub for canal traffic, its proximity to city markets making it key for distributing goods. The economic activity generated by the canal is evidenced by hotels and inns in the Broadstone area catering to canal users. The Royal Canal’s development indicates a significant period of investment in water-based transportation in Ireland.
Impact of Canal Development and Infilling on the Bridge: The construction of the Royal Canal necessitated Blaquiere Bridge to maintain the North Circular Road route. However, the Broadstone Line’s infilling in the 1920s and 1930s profoundly impacted the bridge, transforming its function from spanning a waterway to being situated over dry land that became a linear park. This reflects changing urban development priorities as the importance of canals declined.
The Connection to Broadstone Railway Station: An Intermodal Hub
Strategic Importance of Broadstone Harbour: Broadstone Harbour was strategically important due to its proximity to Dublin’s central markets, making it a key point for transferring and distributing goods arriving via the Royal Canal. The Broadstone Line provided a direct waterway link. The later development of Broadstone Railway Station nearby further enhanced the area’s significance as a transportation hub, suggesting a deliberate effort to create an intermodal connection between canal boats and trains.
Midland Great Western Railway’s Acquisition: In 1845, the Midland Great Western Railway Company (MGWR) acquired the Royal Canal, primarily to use the land alongside for a railway line to the west of Ireland. This had significant implications for the Broadstone area’s canal network. To develop the railway infrastructure, including Broadstone Railway Station, the MGWR infilled Broadstone Harbour and sections of the Broadstone Line. Despite these changes, Blaquiere Bridge remained, now spanning the dry bed of the former canal.
Decline of the Canal and Closure of Broadstone Station: Following the expansion of the railway network, canal transport declined. In 1937, Broadstone Railway Station ceased passenger services as the MGWR redirected trains to Westland Row (now Pearse Station). While the canal spur’s infilling initially aided railway expansion, the shift in transportation preferences contributed to Broadstone’s decline as a major passenger terminus. Broadstone Railway Station later became a steam locomotive depot and then the headquarters and a garage for Bus Éireann, marking a further transition in the area’s role in Dublin’s transportation infrastructure.
Boundary and Identity: The “Inns Quay Ward” Boundary Marker
Historical Context of Inns Quay Ward: The Inns Quay Ward was a historical administrative division within Dublin from at least the early 19th into the 20th century, playing a role in local governance and representation. Boundary markers defined the limits of these administrative areas.
Location and Description of the Marker: An “Inns Quay Ward Boundary Marker,” a round-headed granite stone with a painted cast iron plaque dating to approximately 1820 and bearing the inscription “INNS QUAY WARD,” is located at Blaquiere Bridge on the North Circular Road. Its approximate location is latitude 53°21’38.213″ N and longitude 6°16’15.769″ W.
Significance as a Marker of Historical Boundaries: This boundary marker defined the limits of the Inns Quay Ward in the early 19th century, providing a tangible link to Dublin’s past administrative structure during British rule.
Blaquiere Bridge: A Testament to Dublin’s History
Blaquiere Bridge stands as a compelling testament to Dublin’s intricate and evolving history. Originating as a crucial crossing over the Royal Canal’s Broadstone Line in 1791, it facilitated transportation and trade. Its proximity to Broadstone Harbour and later the railway station highlights the area’s historical significance as a developing intermodal transport hub.
The 20th-century infilling of the canal dramatically transformed the bridge’s environment, yet it remained a significant landmark, later becoming the site of the Irish Volunteers Memorial, linking the area to Ireland’s struggle for independence. Furthermore, the “Inns Quay Ward” marker offers a tangible connection to Dublin’s historical administrative divisions and British influence.
Blaquiere Bridge and its surroundings thus encapsulate the dynamic interplay of infrastructure development, political change, and collective memory that has shaped Dublin’s urban landscape over centuries.
Timeline of Key Events
1790: Commencement of work on the Royal Canal
1791: Construction of Blaquiere Bridge
1801: Completion of the Broadstone Branch of the Royal Canal
1820: Erection of Inns Quay Ward Boundary Marker
1845: Midland Great Western Railway Company purchases the Royal Canal
1847: Opening of Broadstone Railway Station
1877: Infilling of Broadstone Harbour
1920s: Infilling of the Broadstone Canal spur under Blaquiere Bridge
1936: Infilling of the remaining section of the Broadstone Line at Blaquiere Bridge
1937: Closure of Broadstone Railway Station to passenger services
1939: Unveiling of the Irish Volunteers Memorial at Blaquiere Bridge
The Old State Cinema, Phibsborough: A History of Entertainment and Redevelopment
The site at 376 North Circular Road in Phibsborough, Dublin, holds a significant place in the area’s social and architectural history, primarily due to its long association with cinema.
From Picture House to State Cinema: The Early Years
Cinema at this location began with the Phibsborough Picture House in May 1914, at what was then 36 Madras Place on the North Circular Road. This early cinema reflected the growing popularity of moving pictures in suburban Dublin during the 1910s. Initially seating around 300, it was later expanded to approximately 600 patrons.
Operating continuous performances from 3 pm to 10:30 pm, with programme changes twice weekly (Mondays and Thursdays), the cinema offered accessible entertainment with tickets costing 3d, 6d, and 9d. Contemporary reports suggest a successful opening, highlighting the comfortable environment and quality entertainment for the “great crowds” attending. This early success underscored the burgeoning enthusiasm for cinema in Dublin’s suburbs. The continuous performance model was common in early cinema, providing flexibility for patrons.
Over the years, the Phibsborough Picture House became a local fixture, affectionately known as ‘The Phizzer’ by residents. In the late 1940s, Odeon Ltd acquired the cinema and renamed it ‘Phibsboro Cinema’, reflecting the increasing consolidation within the Irish cinema industry. This period also saw plans for an improved cinema design. The Phibsborough Picture House eventually closed in January 1953, with its final screenings being “Battle of Powder River” and “Katie Did It.” The building was demolished in 1953 to make way for a new cinema on the same site.
The State Cinema Era (1954-1974)
The new era began on 24th April 1954 with the grand opening of the State Cinema, replacing the former Phibsboro Cinema near Doyles Corner. The State Cinema was the first in Dublin specifically designed for widescreen CinemaScope films, with the inaugural screening being “West of Zanzibar,” starring Anthony Steel.
The State Cinema quickly became a popular entertainment destination in Phibsborough, considered a “most innovative” addition by locals. It also hosted various events, including a notable concert by the punk rock band The Ramones on 24th September 1978 (after its initial closure). Being among the first cinemas equipped for the immersive CinemaScope experience likely contributed significantly to its popularity. However, the State Cinema closed as a dedicated movie theatre in 1974 as part of a broader programme of cinema closures by Odeon.
The Final Curtain: Reasons for Closure
The closure of the State Cinema in 1974 likely resulted from several factors affecting the cinema industry in Dublin and beyond. The increasing prevalence of television from the late 1950s onwards undoubtedly impacted cinema attendance. The State Cinema also faced competition from larger, often multiplex cinemas in the city centre with greater access to new releases. Economic pressures, such as rising operating costs and potentially a shortage of consistently high-quality films, also contributed. The closure of other Dublin cinemas around the same time, facing similar pressures, underscores that the State Cinema’s demise was part of a larger industry trend. Odeon’s decision to close it as part of a “substantial programme of cinema closures” suggests a strategic move likely driven by profitability concerns in a changing entertainment landscape.
Beyond the Silver Screen: Subsequent Uses
Following its closure as a cinema in 1974, the building at 376 North Circular Road served various purposes. Briefly a theatre and concert venue (including The Ramones’ performance), it became a popular ice rink known as “Silver Skate” for a couple of decades. Later, it transitioned to commercial use, briefly as a shop and then as a furniture retail outlet, “Des Kelly Interiors,” in the 1990s. This shift from entertainment to retail suggests that operating the building as an entertainment venue was no longer economically viable.
Demolition and Redevelopment Plans
The 1950s cinema building, latterly a Des Kelly Carpets showroom, was eventually slated for demolition as part of a new redevelopment plan by Garvagh Homes. This decision likely stemmed from the developer’s assessment of the site’s potential for a more profitable residential development. In January 2022, Garvagh Homes initially proposed a 12-storey apartment tower (96 apartments), which faced considerable local opposition.
“An Phictiúrlann”: The Current Apartment Scheme
Following local feedback, revised development plans were submitted and granted planning permission. The current scheme involves demolishing the existing buildings (except No. 168 Phibsborough Road) and constructing an 80-apartment development with two retail units and a coffee shop.
Located on the ‘Former Des Kelly Site’ (bounded by North Circular Road, Royal Canal Bank, and Phibsborough Road), the development by Garvagh Homes Ltd. will include 19 studios, 19 one-bedroom, 41 two-bedroom, and one three-bedroom apartment. New buildings along North Circular Road will be six storeys high, with an eight-storey apartment building at the corner of North Circular Road and Royal Canal Bank. The development will also include 28 car parking spaces, 186 cycle spaces, bin storage, and green roofs. In a nod to the site’s entertainment history, the residential development has been named “An Phictiúrlann,” meaning “The Picture House” in Irish. Construction is currently underway.
Local Voices: Opposition to the Development
The proposed apartment scheme faced significant opposition from local residents, primarily concerning perceived overdevelopment in terms of density and building height. The initial 12-storey tower proposal was particularly criticised as excessive and out of scale. Residents feared the development’s height and bulk would cast shadows and negatively impact the historic character of Phibsborough village. Former Environment Editor of The Irish Times, Frank McDonald, described the initial plans as “overblown.” Several local residents’ associations and the Dublin Association of An Taisce formally objected to the scheme’s scale and massing.
Dublin City Council North was the Planning Authority for the process. The Council ultimately granted planning permission for the revised scheme with conditions. Garvagh Homes Ltd. filed a First Party appeal against one condition, and a Third Party appeal was later withdrawn. During the planning process, the applicant submitted significant additional information, leading to revised public notices. The Inspector’s Report later mentioned 80 apartments, despite earlier revisions suggesting 77. The developer’s appeal highlights potential points of contention during the planning and approval stages.
Conclusion
The site at 376 North Circular Road in Phibsborough has evolved from the Phibsborough Picture House, a key part of early suburban Dublin entertainment, to the State Cinema, a modern venue. Following its closure in 1974, the building adapted to various uses before its demolition for the current “An Phictiúrlann” residential and retail scheme. This new development, while addressing housing needs, has faced local opposition, highlighting the balance between urban development and preserving local character. The site’s history reflects broader trends in Dublin’s urban development, from the growth of cinema to adapting to changing entertainment landscapes and pressures for increased housing density. The new development’s name serves as a reminder of the site’s enduring significance to the Phibsborough community, marking a transition while sparking conversations about the future of urban spaces and local identity.
Note: The Ramones played their first Dublin gig at the State Cinema in Phibsborough in 1978 and later at the Cabra Grand Cinema in 1980.