St Kieran Archives

2017 LEGACY PHOTO COLLECTION

St Kieran’s Cemetery: A History

St Kieran’s Cemetery, on Hebron Road in Kilkenny, is a significant landmark that reflects the city’s evolving relationship with death and remembrance. While the cemetery was officially consecrated on 27 June 1931, the need for a new public burial ground in Kilkenny was first recognised as far back as 1875. This realisation stemmed from growing concerns about overcrowding and public health in the city’s older graveyards. In 1907, a sworn inquiry was conducted to assess the condition of these burial grounds, revealing a dire situation with overcrowded plots and frequent disturbances of human remains during new interments. These concerns ultimately led to the establishment of St Kieran’s Cemetery, which likely opened for burials soon after its consecration in June 1931.

Management and Regulations

Kilkenny County Council plays a crucial role in the administration and upkeep of St Kieran’s Cemetery. City Hall on High Street oversees the cemetery’s daily operations, ensuring its smooth functioning and adherence to established regulations. The Council maintains comprehensive records of all burial plots and interments, which are valuable resources for genealogical research and historical inquiries.
To ensure the respectful and orderly management of the cemetery, the Council has implemented a set of bye-laws that cover various aspects of its operation, including the purchase of grave spaces, the erection of headstones, and permissible activities within the cemetery grounds. These regulations provide a framework for maintaining the sanctity and serenity of this important community space.
In recent years, cremation has become an increasingly popular choice in Ireland, and St Kieran’s Cemetery has adapted to accommodate this trend by incorporating a columbarium wall. This wall provides a dedicated space for the interment of ashes, offering an alternative to traditional burial practices and reflecting the changing landscape of funeral customs.

Notable Burials and Historical Figures

While St Kieran’s Cemetery may not boast the same historical depth as some of Kilkenny’s older burial grounds, it serves as the final resting place for many of the city’s citizens. Research was conducted to identify any prominent individuals buried at St Kieran’s, but unfortunately, the available historical records do not provide specific details about notable burials or historical figures interred within the cemetery. Further investigation into local archives and genealogical resources may uncover more information about those laid to rest in this hallowed ground.

Stories and News Reports

St Kieran’s Cemetery has been featured in recent news reports, primarily concerning issues of anti-social behaviour and drug dealing within the cemetery grounds. These reports highlight concerns raised by community members and local representatives about the safety and security of the cemetery, prompting calls for increased security measures and community engagement to address these challenges.

The Mystery of the Low Walls

One of the most distinctive features of St Kieran’s Cemetery is the low height of its surrounding walls, which stand at approximately waist height. This design choice, coupled with the apparent lack of stringent security measures, raises questions about the cemetery’s vulnerability to vandalism and other disturbances. The reasons behind this architectural decision remain unclear from the available historical records. It is possible that the low walls were a deliberate attempt to create a more open and accessible space, fostering a sense of community and connection with the deceased. Alternatively, this design may reflect historical factors, budgetary constraints, or prevailing architectural trends at the time of the cemetery’s construction. However, it is important to acknowledge that the accessibility afforded by the low walls may be a contributing factor to the reported issues of drug dealing and anti-social behaviour.

St Kieran and Kilkenny

St Kieran, the patron saint of the Diocese of Ossory, which encompasses Kilkenny, holds a significant place in the city’s religious and cultural heritage. While his most renowned monastic site is located in Seir Kieran, County Offaly, it is believed that his original foundation may have been in Saighir. St Kieran’s influence extended throughout the region, leaving an enduring legacy in Kilkenny.

St Kieran’s College, a prestigious Catholic secondary school in Kilkenny City, stands as a testament to the saint’s enduring presence. The college, named in his honour, has been a cornerstone of Kilkenny’s educational landscape for centuries. Its motto, “Hiems Transiit” (“Winter has passed”), symbolises St Kieran’s association with the arrival of spring and the promise of new beginnings.

The Origins of Hebron Road

The name “Hebron Road” has intriguing biblical roots, referencing the ancient city of Hebron in the Middle East. In the Bible, Hebron is closely associated with Abraham, a revered figure in Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. The Hebrew word for Hebron is derived from the word for “friend,” signifying Abraham’s profound connection with God. However, the historical records do not reveal how this name came to be adopted for a road in Kilkenny. Further research into local history and street naming conventions may shed light on this fascinating link.