TWO BRIDGES AND A GHOST STORY

Green's Bridge (Greensbridge): An Elegant Landmark in Kilkenny, Misidentified Due to a Ghost Story

In previous posts, I mistakenly identified this bridge as St John's Bridge. An oft-repeated local ghost story may explain my confusion.

The Ghost Story and its Factual Basis

The story recounts John's Bridge collapsing due to overcrowding as people watched debris from Green's Bridge during the Great Flood of 1763. While the flood did cause widespread damage, including the collapse of Green's Bridge, historical records don't support this account of John's Bridge's demise. The current John's Bridge was also built later, in 1910.

Sightings of ghostly figures on or near the bridge are purely anecdotal, falling into the realm of folklore.

The dramatic collapse of Green's Bridge during the flood likely became a prominent story in local lore, leading to confusion between the two bridges, especially in the context of ghost tours.

About Green's Bridge (Greensbridge)

Green's Bridge, also known as Greensbridge, is a renowned landmark in Kilkenny, Ireland. It is an elegant Palladian-style limestone arch bridge crossing the River Nore, known for its graceful profile, high-quality carved masonry, and five elliptical arches.

History

• Location: The bridge's location on Kilkenny's north side has served as a crossing point since the mid-10th century. The first bridge was built in the 12th century and has been rebuilt multiple times due to floods.
• Name: Known historically as "the Bridge of Kilkenny", "the big bridge of Kilkenny", and "Grines Bridge", the origin of "Green's Bridge" remains uncertain.
• The Great Flood of 1763: This event destroyed the previous bridge, leading to the construction of the current Green's Bridge.
• Construction: Designed by George Smith and built by William Colles, the bridge was completed in 1766.

Significance

• Architectural and Engineering Value: Its Palladian style, craftsmanship, and engineering make it a significant piece of Ireland's architectural heritage, described by historian Maurice Craig as one of the five finest bridges in Ireland.
• Cultural Landmark: The bridge is an important part of Kilkenny's cityscape, often featured in photographs and paintings.
• Historical Significance: It stands as a reminder of Kilkenny's rich history and the challenges overcome over the centuries.

In Conclusion

While the ghost story surrounding John's Bridge is likely an embellishment, the real historical event of the Great Flood of 1763 and the subsequent construction of Green's Bridge are testaments to Kilkenny's resilience and architectural heritage.