BACK LANE WHERE THE NIGHT SHELTER IS LOCATED
This Saint Vincent de Paul night shelter was constructed to designs by Thomas Francis McNamara in 1915 to provide low-cost accommodation for working men, and later became a night shelter as homelessness became more apparent. Its substantial scale and form, with a regular fenestration arrangement creating a well-balanced, symmetrical façade, make it an imposing addition to Back Lane. The statue of Saint Vincent De Paul is notable, adding artistic and contextual interest. The building is of considerable social importance as an early twentieth-century example of purpose-built charitable accommodation.
The origins of the name "Back Lane" are shrouded in mystery, with several theories put forward based on historical context and city planning. Regardless of its name, the lane is home to a significant landmark: Tailor's Hall.
The Back Lane Parliament: In 1792, Tailor's Hall, situated on Back Lane, became the meeting place for the Catholic Committee. They gathered to draft a petition to King George III, seeking relief from the discriminatory Penal Laws imposed on Catholics. This gathering was dubbed the "Back Lane Parliament" and marked a pivotal moment in the fight for Catholic emancipation in Ireland.
The Tailors' Guild: Tailor's Hall itself served as a crucial hub for the Guild of Merchant Tailors, which played a vital role in Dublin's economic and social fabric for centuries.
Architectural Significance:
Tailor's Hall: This beautifully restored 18th-century building remains a prominent feature on Back Lane. It now serves as the headquarters for An Taisce, the National Trust for Ireland.
Important Note: While Tailor's Hall has a rich history and was once open to the public as a pub/tavern, it is currently closed for general access. As the headquarters for An Taisce, the building may be open for pre-arranged tours or special events. Those interested in exploring its interior should contact An Taisce directly for further information.
The origins of the name "Back Lane" are shrouded in mystery, with several theories put forward based on historical context and city planning. Regardless of its name, the lane is home to a significant landmark: Tailor's Hall.
The Back Lane Parliament: In 1792, Tailor's Hall, situated on Back Lane, became the meeting place for the Catholic Committee. They gathered to draft a petition to King George III, seeking relief from the discriminatory Penal Laws imposed on Catholics. This gathering was dubbed the "Back Lane Parliament" and marked a pivotal moment in the fight for Catholic emancipation in Ireland.
The Tailors' Guild: Tailor's Hall itself served as a crucial hub for the Guild of Merchant Tailors, which played a vital role in Dublin's economic and social fabric for centuries.
Architectural Significance:
Tailor's Hall: This beautifully restored 18th-century building remains a prominent feature on Back Lane. It now serves as the headquarters for An Taisce, the National Trust for Ireland.
Important Note: While Tailor's Hall has a rich history and was once open to the public as a pub/tavern, it is currently closed for general access. As the headquarters for An Taisce, the building may be open for pre-arranged tours or special events. Those interested in exploring its interior should contact An Taisce directly for further information.
BACK LANE WHERE THE NIGHT SHELTER IS LOCATED