ABOUT THIS MAUSOLEUM
The Russell family, with roots in the Anglo-Norman conquest, has a rich history in Ireland. John Norris Russell, a merchant who also became a ship-owner and industrialist, significantly contributed to the development of Limerick. He built the Newtown Pery Mills on Russell’s Quay, a site now occupied by Riverpoint. In addition, he established the Newtown Pery store nearby on Henry Street.
The Russell mausoleum, a fine example of classical architecture, significantly enhances the architectural and social history of the site. Its well-composed classical temple elevation provides a striking contrast to the Romanesque elements of Saint John’s Church. Constructed in 1873, this limestone mausoleum features a tetrastyle temple front in the Doric order. Limestone ashlar walls with Doric pilasters support a plain entablature and pediment. The heraldic decorations include a cast-iron relief goat figure situated above a ribbon band, bearing the Russell motto and date: ‘Che Sara Sara 1873’.
Plaques within the mausoleum pay tribute to the Russell family. One reads: ‘Here lieth the mortal remains of Francis Russell who died the 25th day of August 1800. He was an affectionate husband, a kind and indulgent parent, a true friend & an honest man.’ Another plaque commemorates John Norris Russell’s dedication of this monument to his father, Francis Russell, described as ‘A tender husband, an affectionate parent, a kind friend & an honest man.’
John Norris Russell was also one of the founders of the Limerick Savings Bank. Established on 10 January 1820, the bank was originally built as a place where ordinary people could deposit and save small amounts of money.
Today, after a series of bank amalgamations and closures, the building that once housed the Limerick Savings Bank is now home to the Sarsfield Credit Union. This is one of the finest small buildings in Ireland in a neo-classical style.
In summary, the Russell family, particularly John Norris Russell, played a pivotal role in the development of Limerick, contributing to its architectural, industrial, and financial sectors. Their legacy continues to shape the city’s landscape and history.
The Russell mausoleum, a fine example of classical architecture, significantly enhances the architectural and social history of the site. Its well-composed classical temple elevation provides a striking contrast to the Romanesque elements of Saint John’s Church. Constructed in 1873, this limestone mausoleum features a tetrastyle temple front in the Doric order. Limestone ashlar walls with Doric pilasters support a plain entablature and pediment. The heraldic decorations include a cast-iron relief goat figure situated above a ribbon band, bearing the Russell motto and date: ‘Che Sara Sara 1873’.
Plaques within the mausoleum pay tribute to the Russell family. One reads: ‘Here lieth the mortal remains of Francis Russell who died the 25th day of August 1800. He was an affectionate husband, a kind and indulgent parent, a true friend & an honest man.’ Another plaque commemorates John Norris Russell’s dedication of this monument to his father, Francis Russell, described as ‘A tender husband, an affectionate parent, a kind friend & an honest man.’
John Norris Russell was also one of the founders of the Limerick Savings Bank. Established on 10 January 1820, the bank was originally built as a place where ordinary people could deposit and save small amounts of money.
Today, after a series of bank amalgamations and closures, the building that once housed the Limerick Savings Bank is now home to the Sarsfield Credit Union. This is one of the finest small buildings in Ireland in a neo-classical style.
In summary, the Russell family, particularly John Norris Russell, played a pivotal role in the development of Limerick, contributing to its architectural, industrial, and financial sectors. Their legacy continues to shape the city’s landscape and history.
ABOUT THIS MAUSOLEUM