#excellentstreetimages.com | PARKS AND GARDENS

PHOTOGRAPHED IN APRIL 2022 AND PUBLISHED IN NOVEMBER 2024

It rained almost constantly during my visit and it was especially heavy when I visited the People’s Park in Limerick City but there was an upside in that I was was the only person the park for much of the time.

The People’s Park: A Limerick Treasure

The People’s Park stands as a testament to Limerick’s history and community spirit. Originally a private park for the residents of the affluent Pery Square, it was officially opened to the public in 1877. This generous act by the Earl of Limerick was in memory of Richard Russell, a prominent local businessman.

Historical Elements:

Victorian Shelters: These ornate cast-iron structures, typical of Victorian park design, offer a charming reminder of the park’s origins, providing shelter and a place to rest for generations of visitors.
Bandstand: The Victorian bandstand, a common feature in 19th-century parks, has been a focal point for musical performances and community gatherings throughout the park’s history, echoing with the sounds of music and laughter.
Memorials: The park houses several memorials that connect visitors to Limerick’s past:
Thomas Spring Rice: A towering Doric column dedicated to the 19th-century local MP, reflecting the ambition and grandeur of Limerick’s Georgian era.
Richard Russell: A beautiful and unique fountain commemorating the man whose legacy led to the park’s public opening. This fountain is the only one of its kind in Ireland, adding a special significance to the park.

The BeeBee Tree and its Legacy:

The park was home to a much-loved tree known as the “BeeBee Tree”. This wasn’t just any tree; it was a Tetradium Danielli, a rare species that had thrived in the park for over ninety years. Its name came from the masses of small white flowers that bloomed in late summer, attracting swarms of bees. This made it a vital source of late-season nectar and a beloved sight for park visitors.

Storm Damage and Artistic Renewal:

In 2013, a severe storm caused significant damage to the park, tragically felling the BeeBee Tree and other mature specimens. However, Limerick City and County Council, in a move that blends conservation and creativity, commissioned talented chainsaw artist, Tommy Craggs, to transform the remaining tree stumps into stunning sculptures. These works of art now stand as a testament to the park’s resilience and a unique reminder of the lost trees. This approach not only salvaged something beautiful from a natural disaster but also provided a unique artistic element to the park, making it stand out from other green spaces.

Modernisation and Accessibility:

Recognising the importance of inclusivity, the park has undergone renovations to improve accessibility. The playground has been redesigned to cater to children of all abilities, with sensory areas, wheelchair-accessible swings, and a wide range of play equipment. This ensures that the People’s Park can be enjoyed by everyone in the community.