KILKENNY

FAMINE MEMORIAL IN KILKENNY – THE KILKENNY FAMINE EXPERIENCE

June 16, 2025 by infomatique

KILKENNY JUNE 2025

Kilkenny Workhouse: Unearthing the Famine’s Human Cost

In 2005, an archaeological excavation in Kilkenny City uncovered the remains of 1,000 individuals who were inmates of the former Kilkenny workhouse. A poignant discovery revealed that over half of these individuals were under 18 years old. These remains were respectfully re-interred in 2010 at the Kilkenny Famine Memorial Garden on Hebron Road, serving as a lasting tribute to those who perished.

Dr Jonny Geber has conducted extensive research into these human remains, offering invaluable insights into the lives of the workhouse inmates. His scholarly book, Victims of Ireland’s Great Famine: The Bioarchaeology of Mass Burials at Kilkenny Union Workhouse (University Press of Florida, 2015), sheds new light on a group of people previously lost to history.

Dr Geber’s findings have allowed the stories of those who died within the workhouse walls to finally be told. Their lives and their tragic fate are now acknowledged and recognised, ensuring they are no longer forgotten.

I SEE HIS BLOOD UPON A ROSE WAR MEMORIAL AT CANAL SQUARE KILKENNY – POEM BY JOSEPH PLUNKETT

June 16, 2025 by infomatique

PHOTOGRAPHED ON A REALLY WET DAY

This poignant war memorial, located at Canal Square in Kilkenny, features an inscription of lines from Joseph Plunkett’s renowned poem, “I See His Blood Upon the Rose.” The memorial itself stands as a quiet testament on the banks of the River Nore.

The Inscription:

“I see His blood upon the ROSE
And in the STARS the Glory of His eyes”

Initially, my attempts to photograph this memorial were hampered by the number of people present. However, on my return journey to Dublin, the weather was inclement, and the streets were notably quiet. This provided a perfect opportunity, on my way to the railway station, to capture satisfactory images of this small yet compelling tribute.

The Tragic Love Story of Grace Gifford and Joseph Plunkett

The narrative of Grace Gifford and Joseph Plunkett is widely recognised as one of Ireland’s most tragic love stories. Their profound love for Ireland, coupled with shared ideals and spirituality, brought them together. Their marriage took place in Kilmainham Gaol, a mere seven hours before Joseph’s execution, a life tragically cut short by the violence of the 1916 Easter Rising. Their unwavering love for each other and their country remains an enduring legacy.

“I See His Blood Upon The Rose” by Joseph Mary Plunkett

I see his blood upon the rose
And in the stars the glory of his eyes,
His body gleams amid eternal snows,
His tears fall from the skies.

I see his face in every flower;
The thunder and the singing of the birds
Are but his voice—and carven by his power
Rocks are his written words.

All pathways by his feet are worn,
His strong heart stirs the ever-beating sea,
His crown of thorns is twined with every thorn,
His cross is every tree.

About Joseph Mary Plunkett:

Joseph Mary Plunkett (21 November 1887 – 4 May 1916) was a prominent Irish republican, poet, and journalist. He played a significant role as a leader in the 1916 Easter Rising and was one of the seven signatories to the Proclamation of the Irish Republic.

Grace Gifford’s Unwavering Devotion:

In his will, Joseph Plunkett bequeathed all his possessions to his widow, Grace Gifford. However, his parents regrettably refused to honour his wishes. Grace remained a resolute nationalist following her husband’s death, enduring three months of imprisonment in Kilmainham Gaol in 1923. She never remarried and lived for 39 years after Joseph’s execution, a testament to her enduring love and commitment.

VOID ANCHORED IS A STEEL SCULPTURE BY MICHAEL WARREN

June 12, 2025 by infomatique

KILKENNY CASTLE JUNE 2025

“Void Anchored” is a striking steel sculpture by Irish artist Michael Warren, currently on display at Kilkenny. I photographed it in 2021 during a thunderstorm; today, there was plenty of rain, though no thunder.

About “Void Anchored”

I initially stumbled upon this sculpture while exploring a quieter part of the Kilkenny Castle grounds, unaware of its existence. It is sometimes referred to as “Anchored Void,” and other times as “Void Anchored.”

The Artist: Michael Warren

Michael Warren (born 1950 in Gorey, County Wexford, Ireland) is a renowned Irish sculptor known for his site-specific public art installations. He was inspired by his art teacher, Oisín Kelly, at St. Columba’s College, leading him to study at Bath Academy of Art, Trinity College, Dublin, and the Accademia di Brera in Milan from 1971–75. He now resides and works in County Wexford.

Notable Works in Ireland

Warren has several prominent works across Ireland, including:

Dublin Civic Offices: A large, sweeping wooden sculpture situated in front of the Dublin Civic Offices at Wood Quay. This site was historically the centre of Viking Dublin. The sculpture evokes the form and powerful grace of a Viking ship, while also vertically reflecting the horizontal sweep of the nearby River Liffey as it enters its bay. This complex balance of meanings, coupled with a delicate yet massive balance of substance, is characteristic of his work. Warren himself has described the useful ambiguity of abstraction (Hill 1998).

Tulach a’ tSolais (Mound of Light): Created with Roland Tallon, this memorial commemorates the 1798 rebellion. It features a room hollowed out of a small hill, containing two abstract curved oak forms. Natural light illuminates the space through a long slot in the ceiling and walls. Despite its unusual and abstract constitution, and the politically charged nature of the rebellion, Tulach a’ tSolais is a popular local attraction.

Gateway in Dún Laoghaire: This piece was less favourably received by some local residents and was eventually removed and returned to the artist.

Leighlinbridge, County Carlow: At the northern entrance to the village, there is a sculpture by Warren depicting the thrones of Dinn Righ (The Hill of the Kings), the ancient seat of the Kings of South Leinster, who lived near the village.

ANN MULROONEY’S BRONZE MONUMENT TO MISSING PERSONS

December 18, 2024 by infomatique

KILKENNY CASTLE PARK

Ann Mulrooney’s “Monument To Missing Persons” in Kilkenny Castle Park

Kilkenny Castle Park, a place steeped in history and natural beauty, is home to a poignant sculpture entitled “Monument To Missing Persons”. Created by the acclaimed Irish artist Ann Mulrooney, this artwork serves as a powerful reminder of those who have disappeared and the enduring impact their absence has on loved ones. This article delves into the sculpture itself, the artist’s background, the significance of its location within Kilkenny Castle Park, and explores the “CONNECTED Kilkenny Sculpture Trail”. It also examines the sculpture’s relevance within the context of missing person cases and highlights any related stories, events, or media reports.

The “Monument To Missing Persons”

The “Monument To Missing Persons” is a deeply moving sculpture that captures the profound sense of loss and longing associated with the disappearance of a loved one. The sculpture, designed by Ann Mulrooney , consists of multiple hands cast in bronze and arranged on a stone plinth. These life-sized hands reach upwards, symbolising the missing persons reaching out for help or their loved ones reaching out to them. This powerful imagery evokes a sense of both despair and hope, acknowledging the pain of absence while also clinging to the possibility of reunion.

Each hand in the sculpture was cast from the actual hand of a relative of a missing person. This intimate connection to real individuals imbues the artwork with a profound sense of humanity and collective grief. The monument was commissioned by the Jo Jo Dullard Memorial Trust and funded by the National Millennium Committee Project. It was unveiled in 2002 by President Mary Mc Aleese.

The sculpture is located in a serene area of Kilkenny Castle Park, providing a space for quiet reflection and remembrance. The tranquil surroundings and the poignant symbolism of the outstretched hands create an atmosphere conducive to contemplation and healing. An inscription on the stone at the monument reads: “This sculpture and area of reflection is dedicated to all missing persons.” This dedication broadens the sculpture’s scope, acknowledging the widespread impact of disappearances and offering solace to all those affected.

Jo Jo Dullard

The “Monument To Missing Persons” holds particular significance for the family and friends of Jo Jo Dullard, a 21-year-old woman from Callan who went missing in November 1995. Jo Jo was last seen in Moone, County Kildare, while travelling home from Dublin. Her disappearance remains a mystery, and in 2020, the case was upgraded to a murder inquiry.

The Jo Jo Dullard Memorial Trust played a crucial role in commissioning the monument, ensuring that Jo Jo’s story and the plight of other missing persons are not forgotten. Every year on the anniversary of her disappearance, a memorial ceremony is held at the monument. This event brings together family, friends, and the community to remember Jo Jo and other missing persons. The monument serves as a focal point for their grief and their hope for answers.

Ann Mulrooney: Sculptor and Cultural Leader

Ann Mulrooney is an Irish artist with a diverse background in sculpture and cultural management.
Education: BA in Fine Art, Crawford College of Art, Cork
MA in Sculpture, Royal College of Art, London
Artistic Style: Mulrooney’s style is characterized by her use of diverse materials, often incorporating metalwork, and her focus on creating public art that engages with social and personal themes.
Major Works: “Monument To Missing Persons” in Kilkenny Castle Park.

Her artistic journey began with a focus on metalwork, having worked in a foundry in the UK. This experience likely influenced her sculptural style and her ability to work with different materials. As she explains in an interview, “I trained as a sculptor originally in the Crawford in Cork and I went and worked as a metal worker in a foundry in the UK for a couple of years.”

Mulrooney’s work has been exhibited widely in the UK and Ireland, and her pieces are held in numerous public and private collections. While she initially trained as a sculptor, she transitioned into cultural management, taking on roles such as running the National Design and Craft Gallery and serving as the CEO and Artistic Director of VISUAL Centre for Contemporary Art in Carlow. In these positions, she curated exhibitions and developed cross-disciplinary artistic programmes, often exploring the intersection of art, science, and technology.

Mulrooney’s artistic vision and leadership have been recognised through her appointment to the Golden Fleece Award Advisory Panel, where she contributes to the selection process for this prestigious award in the visual and applied arts. Her involvement in this panel highlights her expertise and influence within the Irish arts community.

In addition to her work as a sculptor and cultural leader, Mulrooney has also been involved with Puffin Rock Habitats, where she has applied her creative skills and experience to projects related to environmental conservation and education. This demonstrates her commitment to using art and creativity to address important social and environmental issues.

Kilkenny Castle Park: A Place of History and Remembrance
Kilkenny Castle Park provides a historically rich and symbolically resonant setting for the “Monument To Missing Persons”. The castle itself has witnessed centuries of Irish history, dating back to its construction in 1260. Originally built to control a fording point of the River Nore, it has served as a strategic stronghold and a symbol of power throughout its existence.

The castle and its surrounding parkland have undergone various transformations over the years, reflecting the changing needs and tastes of its occupants. Today, Kilkenny Castle is a popular tourist destination and a cherished public space, managed by the Office of Public Works. The park’s tranquil atmosphere and its association with both historical events and personal memories make it a fitting location for a monument dedicated to those who have vanished.

The placement of the “Monument To Missing Persons” within this historic landscape adds another layer of meaning to the artwork. It connects the personal tragedies of missing persons to the broader historical narrative of Kilkenny Castle and the surrounding area. The park becomes a space where individual stories of loss intersect with the collective memory of the community.

The park also serves as a place to remember not only missing persons but also historical events and figures. This theme of remembrance is woven into the fabric of Kilkenny Castle Park, with its monuments, gardens, and historical buildings all serving as reminders of the past. The “Monument To Missing Persons” adds another dimension to this theme, highlighting the ongoing impact of loss and the importance of keeping memories alive.

Events in Kilkenny Castle Park

Kilkenny Castle Park is not only a place of historical significance and artistic expression but also a vibrant hub for events and gatherings. The Parade Tower, for example, serves as a conference venue, hosting meetings and events for various organisations and businesses.

The park also plays a role in academic life, as ceremonies for conferring awards and degrees on the graduates of the Kilkenny Campus of the National University of Ireland, Maynooth, have been held at the castle since 2002. These events bring a sense of celebration and achievement to the park, adding to its diverse range of functions.

The CONNECTED Kilkenny Sculpture Trails

While the name “CONNECTED Kilkenny Sculpture Trail” may cause some confusion, it actually refers to two distinct art initiatives in Kilkenny.

Firstly, there is the “Kilkenny Catwalk”, a trail featuring 21 cat sculptures decorated by Irish artists and displayed in public spaces throughout Kilkenny City. This trail aims to engage the community with art, promote local businesses, and attract visitors to the city.

Secondly, there is a sculpture trail simply called “CONNECTED”, an initiative by Design & Crafts Council Ireland, Kilkenny County Council, Kilkenny Arts Festival, Kilkenny Civic Trust and the OPW. This trail began at the National Design & Craft Gallery and led through the city’s key cultural and historic sites along Kilkenny’s Medieval Mile. It aimed to highlight the craftsmanship involved in developing large and small-scale works suited to the outdoors and to encourage people to reconnect with culture and craft outside of a gallery setting.

Although the “Monument To Missing Persons” may not be officially part of these trails, its presence in Kilkenny Castle Park contributes to the city’s rich artistic landscape. It encourages visitors to explore the park and engage with public art that reflects on important social and personal themes.

Stories and Media Reports

The “Monument To Missing Persons” has been featured in news reports and events related to missing person cases, particularly the disappearance of Jo Jo Dullard. News articles about the annual memorial ceremonies often highlight the importance of keeping the memory of missing persons alive and the ongoing search for information about their whereabouts. One article states, “‘It’s important to keep Jo Jo’s memory alive in our hearts and our prayers,’ said Father Willie Purcell who with the Kilkenny Gospel choir will lead the walk and service for Jo Jo.” This quote emphasises the role of the monument in providing a space for collective remembrance and support.

The “Monument To Missing Persons” provides a tangible symbol of this enduring hope and a place where the community can come together to offer support and solidarity.

Conclusion

Ann Mulrooney’s “Monument To Missing Persons” is a powerful and moving artwork that serves as a focal point for remembrance and reflection in Kilkenny Castle Park. The sculpture’s location within this historic landscape adds layers of meaning, connecting individual stories of loss to the broader historical narrative of the area and the wider context of missing person cases in Ireland. The artist’s background in both sculpture and cultural management has informed her ability to create a work that resonates with both personal and collective experiences. The sculpture’s role in memorial events and media reports related to missing person cases further highlights its significance as a symbol of remembrance and hope. The “Monument To Missing Persons” stands as a testament to the power of public art to address social issues, offer solace to those affected by loss, and foster a sense of community.

KILKENNY PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH

December 18, 2024 by infomatique

A MODERN BUILDING ON NEW ROAD IN KILKENNY CITY

Kilkenny Presbyterian Church: A Tale of Two Churches

Kilkenny Presbyterian Church, as a name, can be a source of confusion as it refers to two distinct buildings with a shared history. This article aims to clarify this confusion by exploring the history of both churches, their connection to each other, and their place within the broader context of Presbyterianism in Kilkenny. It also delves into the history of New Road, where the modern church is located, and highlights any notable stories, events, or news reports related to the church and its community.

Two Churches, One Name

The name “Kilkenny Presbyterian Church” most commonly refers to the modern church building located at 16 New Road in Kilkenny, Ireland (R95 X588) . This church, with its contemporary design and active congregation, serves as a hub for the local Presbyterian community. However, there is another church that historically held the same name: the older Kilkenny Presbyterian Church on Ormonde Road. This older church, built in 1839 , is now used as an office building.

The Older Church on Ormonde Road

The older Kilkenny Presbyterian Church on Ormonde Road is a detached, three-bay, double-height, single-cell Gothic Revival Presbyterian church . Constructed in 1839 , it features a pitched slate roof with clay ridge tiles and cast-iron rainwater goods . The front (south-east) elevation is built with limestone ashlar and includes cut-limestone dressings . Adding to its historical richness, the church incorporates a salvaged twelfth-century Romanesque doorcase (1133), along with several smaller artefacts carved from a honey-coloured local sandstone .

The church’s design exhibits several unique architectural features. A Tudor-headed window opening graces the entrance bay, with a cut-limestone surround, chamfered reveals, a hood moulding, timber Y-mullions forming a five-part lancet arrangement, and decorative fixed-pane iron windows . Flanking this central window are pointed-arch window openings with cut-limestone surrounds, chamfered reveals, hood mouldings, timber Y-mullions forming a bipartite lancet arrangement, and fixed-pane fittings with diamond-leaded glazing . The remaining window openings are also pointed-arch, with cut-limestone sills and fixed-pane timber fittings .

The church underwent renovations in 1994, during which the interior was remodelled to accommodate its use as offices . This renovation reflects a period when the congregation was without its own dedicated minister . However, the building retains its historical and architectural significance as a testament to the enduring presence of Presbyterianism in Kilkenny.

The Modern Church on New Road
The modern Kilkenny Presbyterian Church on New Road is a more recent construction, although the exact date remains unclear from the available information. It is a modern building with facilities designed to cater to the needs of a contemporary congregation, including a kitchen, a hall, and rooms specifically for toddlers, teenagers, and prayer meetings . The church can be contacted by telephone (086 8362633). The current minister is Rev Jonathan Currie.

Connecting the Two Churches
The two Kilkenny Presbyterian Churches are linked by their shared history and the evolution of the Presbyterian community in Kilkenny. The older church on Ormonde Road served as the original place of worship for the congregation, which dates back to the 1830s . The congregation was formally organised in 1838, and its first minister, Rev. Joshua Collins, was ordained in 1841 .

Over time, the needs of the congregation changed, and the decision was made to establish a new church building on New Road. This move likely reflects a desire to provide a more modern and accessible space for worship and community activities. The older church on Ormonde Road was subsequently repurposed as an office building, while the new church on New Road became the primary place of worship for the Kilkenny Presbyterian community.

The History of New Road

While the name might suggest a recent addition to Kilkenny’s streetscape, New Road is not as new as one might initially think. Although the exact date of its construction remains unclear from the available information, it likely developed sometime after the medieval period . To understand this seemingly contradictory name, it’s essential to delve into the broader history of Kilkenny and its unique urban development.

Kilkenny boasts a long and complex history, with evidence of settlement dating back to the 6th century . The city’s street names often reflect this historical development, with many roads named after significant events or landmarks . For instance, St. Kieran’s Street, named for Ciaran’s Well, marks the site of an ancient church that was demolished and later incorporated into the public market . This street served as the original thoroughfare from Kilkenny Castle to St. Canice’s Cathedral and is likely one of the oldest in the city . Adding a touch of intrigue to its historical significance, St. Kieran’s Street was also reportedly home to Alice Kyteler, the infamous “witch of Kilkenny,” who escaped the city after being tried for witchcraft.

Similarly, Parliament Street derives its name from the Confederate Parliament of 1648 but was previously known as Coal Market Street, reflecting its function as the site where coal from the Castlecomer mines was sold . High Street, another prominent thoroughfare, was built as an extension of the existing High Street at the request of the occupying English, who agreed to lease the ground from the Church for an annual rent of 4 ounces of gold . Notable buildings on High Street include Grace’s Castle and Rothe House, a 16th-century merchant’s house restored in 1966, which once housed the Gaelic League where Irish was taught .

In more recent times, Kilkenny has seen the development of the Kilkenny Central Access Scheme (CAS), previously known as the Kilkenny Inner Relief Road Scheme . This scheme, comprising 4.5 kilometers of single carriageway road with a width of 7.3 meters , aimed to alleviate traffic congestion in the city centre. However, the CAS proved controversial, with concerns raised about its route potentially bringing heavy traffic through residential areas and the medieval Irishtown section of the city . The Inner Relief Road was initially proposed in 1978 to provide access for brewery traffic, but the brewery has since closed . Before the CAS, Kilkenny already had a two-thirds ring road, and some argued that completing this outer ring road would be more effective in addressing traffic issues . Despite these concerns, Kilkenny County Council prioritised the CAS project over completing the outer ring road .

Stories, Events, and News Reports

Kilkenny Presbyterian Church has been an active presence in the community, hosting various events and featuring in local news and publications. In December 2019, the Kilkenny City Brass Band held a carol service at the church, bringing festive cheer to the congregation and the wider community . In 2014, the church hosted a farewell event for a departing minister, marking a transition in leadership while acknowledging the contributions of the outgoing minister . During the COVID-19 pandemic, the church adapted to the challenges of the time by providing online resources and guidance to its congregation, ensuring continued support and spiritual connection during a period of isolation .

The church offers a variety of programs and activities for people of all ages. Men’s Bible studies meet every Saturday morning, providing an opportunity for men to come together and delve deeper into their faith . The church also hosts Ladies Bible Studies on the second and fourth Mondays of each month, Mum’s in Prayer meetings monthly, and an ECL bereavement group that meets monthly, offering support and fellowship to those who are grieving . Additionally, the church provides a weekly email and A5 booklet resource called “Let’s Pray,” which offers prayer topics and requests for the coming week, covering various aspects of church life with a focus on Global Mission and Mission in Ireland.

One of the church’s notable initiatives is the “What’s the Story?” program, which aims to engage people in conversations about faith and Christianity . Through this program, the church has listened to nearly 1000 stories from people across Ireland, uncovering two common objections to Christianity and four common questions that point to a deep need for Christ . In the fall of 2022, “What’s the Story?” launched a nationwide publicity campaign to encourage people to think about the big existential themes that are woven through their lives . This campaign reflects the church’s commitment to reaching out to the wider community and fostering meaningful dialogue about faith and spirituality.

Interestingly, in the summer of 2012, Tyler and Carrie Dirks and their children worked with Kilkenny Presbyterian Church . This collaboration highlights the church’s connections with individuals and families from other countries, demonstrating its openness to engaging with different perspectives and experiences.