HISTORY OF DOMINICK STREET

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AS IT WAS IN 1911 AND AS IT IS IN MAY 2024

The 1911 Census reports that eight families had lived in the eight rooms of number 69 Upper Dominick Street in Dublin a total of 46 people, some living nine to a room.

Upper Dominick Street in 1911

The 1911 Census provides a snapshot of life on Upper Dominick Street over a century ago. The conditions were cramped, with multiple families often sharing a single room. This level of overcrowding was common in Dublin's tenement housing during that era.

The street itself was part of a larger neighbourhood characterised by poverty, limited access to sanitation, and high rates of disease. The families living on Upper Dominick Street likely worked in low-paying, manual labour jobs, and their children would have had limited educational opportunities.

The History of Upper Dominick Street

Dominick Street, named after the nearby St. Saviour's Dominican Priory, was developed in the late 18th century as a fashionable residential area. However, by the 19th century, it had fallen into decline and become associated with tenement housing.

The street's architecture reflects this history, with grand Georgian buildings now divided into smaller flats. The area also witnessed significant historical events, including the 1916 Easter Rising, a key moment in Ireland's struggle for independence.

Upper Dominick Street in 2024

In 2024, Upper Dominick Street is primarily residential, with a focus on student accommodation. There are no shops directly on the street, but the surrounding area offers a variety of amenities, including shops, restaurants, and cafes, within a short walking distance.

The presence of multiple student accommodation complexes reflects Dublin's growing student population and the demand for modern, purpose-built housing. These complexes often feature amenities like study spaces, gyms, and social areas, catering to the needs of students.

Some of the notable student accommodation complexes on Upper Dominick Street include:

Yugo Dominick Place: This complex offers a range of studio and en-suite rooms, with various amenities and communal spaces.

Dominick Place: Another large complex with modern studios and en-suite rooms, located on either side of the Luas tram line.

The development of these complexes has contributed to the ongoing regeneration of Upper Dominick Street. They have brought new life and energy to the area, while providing much-needed housing for students.

However, the transformation of the street into a student-dominated area has also raised concerns about the impact on the existing community and the potential for gentrification. These are important issues that need to be considered as the area continues to evolve.

Overall, Upper Dominick Street in 2024 represents a unique blend of history and modernity. The street's past as a tenement area is still visible in the architecture, while the new student complexes reflect the changing needs of the city. The future of the street will likely depend on how these different elements continue to interact and shape the community.

The 1911 Census reports that eight families had lived in the eight rooms of number 69 Upper Dominick Street in Dublin a total of 46 people, some living nine to a room.