LIMERICK POSITIVES - Limerick Pride

Transcription

www.limerickpride.com
Limerick City 2007
Limerick City circa 1587
Welcome to www.limerickpride.com
The Limerick Pride website is dedicated to promoting the very many positive aspects of Limerick
City and County.
This web site is for Limerick people at home and abroad, for people who have come to live in or visit
Limerick, and for people with an interest in Limerick.
This site is currently under construction and in the coming months it is planned to expand on the
information contained in the site. (Revision 20)
It is my intention to collate interesting information on Limerick with your help.
If you have any information or photographs that you feel would be relevant to this site,
Please email them to
[email protected]
Enjoy your visit! Martin O’Brien
To hear 16 Limerick songs played go to web site and click on:
LIMERICK SONGS ('TIS OF LIMERICK WE SING)
Cuimhnidh ar Luimneach
Remember Limerick
Limerick City Coat of Arms
“Urbs Antique Fuit Studiisque Asperrima Belli”
Translation: An ancient city well studied in the arts of war
The Arms of the City of Limerick are argent, a castle, triple-towered, proper, the
centre tower of a conical shape and terminated with a cross, the portcullis at the
entrance to the Castle elevated on a red background. Although the origin or
date of the arms is unclear, it could be associated with medieval times as it
contains the two symbols of Norman power. Religious and secular, depicted by
the cathedral (the central tower of a conical shape and a cross) and by the
castle.
It is not known exactly when or by whom the city motto was first decided.
Various studies confirm that it is a quotation from the poem “Aeneid” and the motto was quoted in
mid 17th century when Limerick was compared to the ancient city of Troy because of the sieges of
Limerick by Cromwell and William II. The epic poem Aeneid about the City of Troy was written about
29 B.C. by Virgil who was a very famous Roman poet who lived from 70 B.C. to 19 B.C. and who is
also sometimes called Vergil. The Limerick city colour is red (From the Crest Background)
TOP 12 VISITOR ATTRACTIONS IN LIMERICK CITY
Bishop’s Palace, Church St.
(Next to King John’s Castle)
City Gallery of Art,
Pery Square
City (Jim Kemmy) Museum,
Castle Lane, Nicholas Street
Daghdha Dance Company,
St. Johns Square
Georgian House & Garden,
No. 2 Pery Square
Hunt Museum,
Rutland Street
King John’s Castle & Treaty Stone,
Kings Island & Clancy Strand
Restored (1990) home of former Protestant Bishop’s of Limerick.
Headquarters of Limerick Civic Trust
Painting Collection 18th, 19th & 20th century painters
Collection of Drawings, Sculpture, Photography & Multi Media
50,000 items ranging from the Middle Stone Age to the Present
Day, Ireland’s first searchable online museum catalogue
Group of active highly skilled individuals dedicated to a rigorous
discourse in dance, choreography, arts & culture
Built in 1838 includes Georgian home at the front & Angela’s
Ashes exhibition at the rear
Internationally important collection of 2000 works of art &
antiquities,includes works by Renoir, Picasso, Leonardo da Vinci
King John’s Castle is a 13th century visitor attraction of
international standard, in the heart of Limerick’s Medieval District
on King’s Island. Treaty of Limerick signed on this stone in 1691
Catholic Cathedral built in 1861, Ireland’s tallest spire (94M),
Flag of the Irish Brigades Wild Geese hangs from choir gallery
Founded in 1168 by the King of Munster, Donal Mór O’Brien, on
a site where his palace had stood
1000 capacity custom built concert hall for Concerts, Recitals,
Drama, Dance & Grand Opera
Modern university 10,000 pupils, acclaimed for the quality of its
teaching, research & the excellence of its graduates
Diverse wetland lagoon habitat with many species of Duck, Fox,
Otter, Frog, Bat, Butterflies & Dragonflies
St. John’s Cathedral,
Cathedral Place
St. Mary’s Cathedral,
Bridge St.
University Concert Hall (UCH)
Plassey
University of Limerick,
Plassey
Westfield Lagoon Nature Sanctuary,
Near Shannon Bridge
Suggested other trips:
Angela’s Ashes walking tour, City Open Top Bus tour, Boat Trips up & down river from Limerick
County of Limerick Coat of Arms
Cuimhnigh ár Luimneach
Translation: Remember Limerick
The first inhabitants are recorded in 4000bc. The official County of Limerick dates from the year
1210, when King John of England established the first 12 Irish counties, Limerick being one of these.
Comprising an area of slightly more than 1000 square miles, the County’s significant historical and
geographical features are manifested in the County’s official “Coat of Arms”, the motto inscribed in
the Irish language “Cuimhnigh ár Luimneach” meaning remember Limerick) was the battle cry of the
Irish Brigades (the Wild Geese) who left to join the French army after the Treaty of Limerick in 1691.
The green shield and wavy white bands signify the streams of milk flowing from the fertile fields of
the Golden Vale of Limerick. Super imposed on the shield is a gold cross in a ring, a design from the
magnificent Ardagh chalice, which was found in Ardagh, Co. Limerick. Sarsfield, the heroic defender
of Limerick, forms the crest.
TOP 12 VISITOR ATTRACTIONS IN LIMERICK COUNTY
Adare Village,
Adare N21
Celtic Park & Gardens,
Kilcornan N69
Curraghchase Forest Park &
Stonehall VisitorFarm Kilcornan N69
Desmond Hall,
Newcastlewest
Eamon de Valera Museum,
Bruree R518
Foynes Flying Boat Museum,
Foynes N69
Glenstal Abbey,
Murroe R506
Glin Castle & Gardens,
Glin N69
Irish Palatine Heritage Museum,
Rathkeale N21
Kilmallock Museum & History Trail,
Kilmallock R512
Limerick Garden Trail
Ireland’s prettiest village, thatched roof cottages, historic castle,
& churches, visitor centre
On display are a stone circle, mass rock, a dolman, a lake
dwelling; an Ogham Stone, a cooking site, a stone church, a
holy well, a ring fort & a Garden with 155 different plants
Home of poet Aubrey de Vere, large forest park.
Variety of animals in a secure pleasant setting
The 15th Century Desmond banqueting hall was once used by
the Earls of Desmond for banqueting & entertainment.
Eamon de Valera Taoiseach & President of Ireland was raised in
Bruree “Fort of the Kings” home of South Munster Royalty
Visit the Flying Boat. Foynes was the centre of the Aviation
World 1939 – 1945 & where Irish Coffee was first invented
Benedictine Castle, School & Monastery on 500 acres
Castle on 500 acre Demesne with large garden area
Story of German Palatines who came to Ireland 1709
Church Abbey & Walled Town Gates & ruins, Scale model in
museum of stone age houses (4000 BC) and walled town
Ballynacourty Ballysteen, Boyces & Knockpatrick Foynes, Celtic Kilcornan,
Glin Castle, Moanwing Rathkeale, Terra Nova Kilmallock
Lough Gur Stone Age Centre &
Lough Gur 5000 Years old (3000 BC) older than the Pyramids.
Bruff Stone Circle Henge R512
Visitor Centre, Bruff Stone Circle Henge, the largest in Ireland.
Suggested Limerick drive:
Limerick Discovery Drive Total round trip 134 km. Start from Limerick City to Adare, Curraghchase,
Rathkeale, Newcastlewest, Kilmallock, Croom, Lough Gur, Limerick City
Some Famous Limerick People
The people of Limerick are its greatest asset. Limerick people are warm, friendly & the beauty of
Limerick women is world famous.
Limerick - Authors, Poets, Singers & Artists
Denis Allen
John Breen
Vincent Browne
Todd Carty
Jimmy Carr
Andrew Cherry
Michael Collins
Cranberries Pop Group
Patrick J. Cronin
Michael Curtin
Aubrey Thomas De Vere
Tommy Drennan
Johnny Duhan
Patrick Weston Joyce
Robert Dwyer Joyce
Gerald Griffin
David Hanly
Mick Hanley
Richard Harris
Catherine Hayes
Michael Hogan
Sean Keating
Jon Kenny
Marian Keyes
Ciaran MacMathuna
Frank McCourt
Lola Montez
Suzanne Murphy
Kate O’Brien
Sean Óg O’Ceallachain
Séamus Ó Cinneide
Musician, Composer of Limerick you’re a Lady
Playwright (Alone It Stands play about Munster v All Blacks 1978
Broadcaster & Journalist, Village Magazine
Actor, played many roles including Mark Fowler in the Eastenders &
PC Gabriel Kent in the Bill
Comedian, winner of many awards including: Best Live Stand Up
2006, Best TV On Screen Newcomer 2003
Author, His reply to a theatrical manager who had not paid him on a
previous occasion, and sought to engage him again was:
Sir, You have bitten me once, and I am resolved that you shall not
make two bites of A. Cherry. Author of “The Dear Little Shamrock”
Author, nominated for Booker Prize in 2000 (The Keeper of Truth)
36,000,000 records sold, Dolores O’Riordan lead singer, Noel Hogan,
Mike Hogan, Fergal Lawler
Author, Home Wasn’t Built In A Day 2007, St. Mary’s Catholic Church
2001, Eas Cead Tine 1999, Michael D. Ryan (Poet) 1998,
Aubrey de Vere (Poet) 1997, The Auld Town (Askeaton) 1995,
Author, mostly comedy books (The League Against Christmas)
Poet, Wordsworth called his sonnets the "most perfect of the age."
Singer, Monarchs Showband, Redemptorist Choir
Singer & Songwriter (Voyage & Just Another Town)
Education, author of Handbook of School Management in 1886
Composer & Poet ,The Wind That Shakes the Barley, Boys of
Wexford, Limerick Blacksmith
Author. (novel The Collegians & poem Eileen Aroon)
Broadcaster (Ex Morning Ireland) & Author (In Guilt & In Glory)
Singer & Composer
Actor. Appeared in seventy films, Singer (Camelot, MacArthur Park) &
Poet (I, In The Membership Of My Days)
Ireland’s greatest Operatic Soprano “the Limerick Nightingale” was
much sought after by Verdi and performed in Europe, USA, Australia
Bard of Thomond, The Bishops Lady is his most famous poem
Painter, former president of the Royal Hibernian Academy
Comedian, D’Unbelievables
Author, mostly chick lit books (Sushi for Beginners)
Broadcaster (Irish Music & Poetry), Freeman of Limerick
Author, Pulitzer prize winner, Angela’s Ashes
Born Maria Dolores Eliza Rosana Gilbert in 1818, her mother was an
Oliver from Castle Oliver in Limerick.
Opera Singer (Irish, Welsh & Scottish National Operas, WE4 group)
Author, Postage stamp issued for her Centenary in 1987. Wing in UL
dedicated in her honour
World’s longest continuous programme broadcaster (Sport)
Journalist and Local Historian.
Eamonn O’Connor
Criostoir O’Flynn
Desmond O’Grady
Joseph O’Mara
George Alexander Osborne
Sean O’ Tuama
Andreas MacCraith
Ada Rehan (Ada Crehan)
Thomas (Tom) Ryan
Gerard (Gerry) Stembridge
John Shinnors
Karl Spain
Tom & Paschal
Bill Whelan
Terry Wogan
Cameraman, Ventriloquist, Magician & Soccer player
Author (Beautiful Limerick, There Is An Isle)
Poet, 17 Collections of poems, taught in France, Italy, USA, Egypt
Tenor, The “Irish Caruso” member of D’Oyle Carte Opera Company,
Freeman of Limerick
Composer. CD of his music issued in 2006
Maigue Poets
Credited with the first Limerick in the 17th century
Actress, Member of Augustin Daly’s company. Excelled as Katherine
in “The Taming of the Shrew” & Rosalind in “As You Like It”
Worlds largest silver statue made in her honour for the Chicago World
Fair. Ship Ada Rehan named in her honour in WW2
Painter, former president of the Royal Hibernian Academy
Writer, Director, Actor (Scrap Saturday, Black Day at Blackrock)
Artist, Painter, One of Irelands leading painters, Member of Aosdana
Comedian, Karl Spain Wants A Woman, Class Clown
Comedians, Featured at Carnegie Hall & Albert Hall
Musician, Composer of Riverdance, Freeman of Limerick
Entertainer & Broadcaster, Freeman of Limerick
LIMERICK - WAR OF INDEPENDENCE
Robert (Bobby) Byrnes
Black and Tans
George (Seoirse) Clancy
Kathleen Daly Clarke
Cornelius (Con) Colbert
Edward (Ned) Daly
John Daly
Eamon De Valera
Flying Columns
First Volunteer to die in Ireland after 1916 Rising, Adjutant Second
Limerick City Battalion. Arrested & went on hunger strike, fatally
wounded in escape.
His funeral on 8th April 1919 attracted a crowd of 15,000 and so
alarmed the British that Limerick was declared a special Military Area
The Black and Tans were named after the Scarteen hounds from
Knocklong. Ireland’s most famous pack of hounds. A journalist Mr.
O’Sullivan on a train journey from Limerick City to Limerick Junction
coined this phrase when he encountered a group of new British Army
recruits in their uniforms as they reminded him of the hounds colour
Mayor of Limerick, Murdered in his home by British Forces during the
War of Independence 7 March 1921.
Clancy Strand named in his honour
First woman Mayor in Ireland, Founder Member of Cumann na mBan
Sister of Edward Daly & married to Tom Clarke both executed in 1916
as leaders of the rising
Commanded garrison in Dublin during 1916 rising. Executed 8 May
1916 in Kilmainham Jail.
Colbert station in Limerick is named after Con
Commanded First Battalion Dublin Brigade during 1916 rising.
Executed 4 May 1916 in Kilmainham jail.
Bray railway station in Wicklow is named in his honour
Fenian, formed possibly first labour party in Ireland
Commanded garrison in Dublin during 1916 rising, Leader in War of
Independence
The Flying Columns which were so effective in winning the War of
Independence first saw action in Limerick East
Liam Lynch
General in the war of independence.
General in command of Limerick, Cork, Kerry & Waterford Republican
Army forces during the War of Independence. Commander in Chief of
all Republican forces during the civil war. A round tower marks his
grave in the Knockmeldown mountains where he was killed
IRA spy in Dublin Castle, provided information on British Intelligence
Former Mayor of Limerick, Murdered in his home by British Forces
during the War of Independence 7 March 1921.
O’Callaghan Strand in Limerick is named in his honour
Came up with idea for Howth gun running & was on the yacht Asgard
which brought the guns for the 1916 rising in Dublin
Brigade Commandant, East Limerick Brigade
David Neligan
Michael O’Callaghan
Mary Ellen Spring Rice
Sean Wall
LIMERICK - HISTORICAL & GENERAL
Serena Alleyne ArmstrongJones
G. E. M. Anscombe
George Geary Bennis
Tomas de Bhaldraithe
Sean Bourke
Catherine (Kate) Coll
John Croker
John Cronin
Margaretta Eagar
Philip Embury
Sophie Peirce Evans
Lady Sophie Mary Heath
Dermot FitzGerald
Desmond FitzGerald
John FitzGerald
Thomas FitzGerald
Gerard Hartmann
Barbara Heck
Celia Holman lee
Thomas Langois Lefroy
John Patrick (JP)
McManus
Anglo Irish aristocrat and a member by marriage of the British Royal
Family. Married to Lord Linley
Analytic philosopher. Published many books & papers on the subject
Decorated by King Louis Philippe of France for saving his life
Irish language scholar and lexicographer. Founded language
laboratory in UCD which was the first of its kind in Ireland or Briton
Sprung Russian Spy George Blake from Wormwood Scrubs jail
Mother of Éamon de Valera Catherine was born in Bruree Co.
Limerick.
John Croker had a large estate in Limerick. He was dying and one of
his sons who was a Clergyman said “you are going to a better place”.
John’s reply was “I doubt it” hence the saying “I doubt it says Croker”.
Chairman Limerick Soviet strike committee in 1919 when the workers
took over the city.
Nurse to the four daughters of Russian Tsar Nicholas II & Tsarina
Alexandra. Her memoir was entitled “Six Years at the Russian Court”
Founder of American Methodism
World famous aviator setting many world air records, first woman to
make a parachute jump, KLM pilot. Sold her plane to Amelia Earhart.
Founder member of British women’s Olympic group
Businessman & Philanthropist, Head partner in Price Waterhouse
Coopers, Co-founded the first assisted living community in Ireland in
Adare in 1994
Owner of Glin Castle and gardens and Knight of Glin
In 2007 he planned regeneration blueprint for Limerick
Great Grandfather of President John FitzGerald Kennedy.
Presidential yacht named Honey Fitz
Physiotherapist to Olympic teams of Ireland, UK & USA
53 Olympic medal winners have passed through his clinic
Co-founder of American Methodism
Style Guru, appearing on RTE’s Beat the Stylist programme
MP, appointed Chief Justice of Ireland in 1852. Boyfriend of Jane
Austin and possible the character Mr. Darcy was based on in Pride &
prejudice. Character in film Becoming Jane based on Lefroy.
Entrepreneur, Freeman of Limerick
His charities have raised approx €70,000,000
Dolores McNamara
Lucky Limerick
John Thomas Mullock
John Murray
Sir Thomas Myles
Jean Baptiste MacMahon
Conor O’Brien
Blessed Bishop Terence
Albert O’Brien
Sylvester O’Halloran
Michael Maurice
O’Shaughnessy
Séan South
Dr. Pat Wallace
Patrick Staker Wallace
Europe’s largest EuroMillions lotto winner €115 m in 2005
Tom & Mary Flynn from Foynes won €9.6 m in 2006
Roman Catholic Bishop of St. John’s Newfoundland who did much to
establish and develop the church in the region
Member Court of Justice of the EU, former Attorney General
Honorary surgeon to the British King when in Ireland and consulting surgeon
to the British Forces in Ireland. Brought guns for 1916 Easter Rising in his
yacht “Chotah”. Freeman of Limerick.
Great Grandfather of Marshall MacMahon, Duke of Magenta, and
President of France. Jean was born at Dooradoyle, Limerick
Probably Irelands greatest Irish Yachtsman ever. He sailed around
the world in his 42" yacht “Saoirse” between 1923 & 1925.
Conor imported arms for the 1916 Easter Rising on his yacht "Kelpie"
Consecrated by Rinuccini as Bishop. In the Cromwellian siege of
1651 he urged stubborn resistance and was captured, tortured and
executed. Beatified in 1992 by Pope John Paul 2
Surgeon, Founder of Ireland’s College of Surgeons
Michael Maurice O'Shaughnessy was San Francisco's Chief Engineer
for 22 years. He was responsible for several engineering marvels
including the Golden Gate Bridge, Streetcar System, West Portal
Tunnel, Hetch-Hetchy water system. O'Shaughnessy Boulevard was
named in his honour.
Member of IRA, shot in Fermanagh 1st Jan 1956.
A crowd of 20,000 turned out for his funeral in Limerick
Director of the National Museum of Ireland
Member of IRB in 1798 rebellion, Staker Wallace lament was
performed in Gangs of New York film
LIMERICK – POLITICIANS
Frances Condell
Eamon DeValera
Michael D. Higgins
Jim Kemmy
Michael Keyes
William Lane Joynt
Michael Noonan
Willie O’Dea
Desmond O’Malley
Donogh O’Malley
Tim O’Malley
Edmund Sexton Pery
Frank Prendergast
Thomas Spring Rice
First woman Lord Mayor of Limerick, JFK credited Frances with best
speech he heard during his tour of Europe
Politician, Fianna Fail, Freeman of Limerick, Government Minister,
Taoiseach, President. Born in New York but raised in Bruree
Politician, Labour, Former Government Minister
Politician, Labour, Local & National Historian
Politician, Labour, first government Minister appointed from Limerick
Mayor of Limerick in 1862, Mayor of Dublin in 1867
Politician, Fine Gael, Former Leader of Fine Gael & former Minister
Politician, Fianna Fail, Government Minister
Politician, Fianna Fail & PD, Government Minister & leader of PD
Politician, Fianna Fail, Introduced free secondary education in 1966
Politician, PD, Junior Government Minister
Speaker Irish House of Commons, Barrister, MP for Limerick and
responsible for the laying out of Newtown Perry Georgian area
Politician, Labour, Former Mayor, Historian & Irish Language expert
Politician, Chancellor of the Exchequer, Used term West Brit in
parliament for first time. Monument in Peoples Park in his memory
LIMERICK – MILITARY
Joseph Bradshaw
Victoria Cross Medal, UK, 1855, Woronzoff Road, Crimea
Nathaniel Burslem
William Coffey
James Cooney
John Danaher (Danagher)
James Drury
John FitzGerald
F. C. Fitzgibbon
Sir Hugh Gough
Andrew Jones
Count Peter Lacy
Cornelius Leahy
Frank Ryan
Michael Madden
Michael C. Murphy
William Nash
John O’Dea
Michael James O’Rourke
Patrick Shanahan
Victoria Cross Medal, UK, 1860, Taku Forts, China
Victoria Cross Medal, UK, 1855, Sebastopol, Crimea
Medal of Honour, USA, 1900, Tientsin, China. China Relief.
USMC, Distinguished himself by meritorious conduct in battle
Victoria Cross Medal, UK, 1881, Elandsfontein, South Africa
Medal of Honour, USA, 1864, Weldon Railroad, CA, Civil War.
US Army, Saved regimental colours
Medal of Honour, USA, 1898, Cuzco, Cuba. Spanish American war.
US Navy, Bravery under fire
Killed in the Charge of the Light Brigade in Crimea.
A statue was erected on Sarsfield bridge which was blown up in 1930
and replaced by the 1916 memorial
Field Marshall British Army. 1st Viscount Gough
Only the Duke of Wellington fought in more campaigns
Medal of Honour, USA, 1864, Mobile Bay, Alabama, Civil War.
US Navy, Gallantry in battle
Field Marshall Russian army.
Fought in Siege of Limerick and left Ireland to fight on the continent.
Frederick the Great called him the “Prince Eugene of Muscovy.”
Medal of Honour, USA, 1899, Porac, Philippines. Philippine War.
US Army, Gallantry in action against superior force
Led 200 Irishmen to fight in Spain in the International Brigade.
Medal of Honour, USA, 1861, Mason’s Island, Maryland, Civil War.
US Army, Saved a wounded comrade
Medal of Honour, USA, 1864, North Anna River, VA, Civil War
Victoria Cross Medal, UK, 1858; Lucknow, India
Medal of Honour, USA, 1863, Vicksburg, Mississippi, Civil War.
US Army, Gallantry in the charge of volunteer storming party
Victoria Cross Medal, UK, 1917; Hill 60, France
Medal of Honour, USA, 1899, off Annapolis, Maryland, Peace Time .
US Navy, Heroism in rescue of shipmate.
LIMERICK - CHARITABLE ORGANISATIONS
Bóthar
Bóthar is a charity specialising in helping poor farmers in Third
World countries to help themselves by giving them gifts of animals
Sr. Joan Bowles
Limerick Youth Service was founded in 1973 under the joint
patronage of the Bishops of Limerick. Over the years, this voluntary
organisation has grown into the country's largest local Youth Service,
offering a range of personal and social development and recreational
opportunities to young people throughout Limerick City and County.
Founder of Irish Rural Dwellers Association
Founder of Concern charity, Freeman of Limerick
Concern Charity, Freeman of Limerick
Founder of Muinter na Tire 1937, Community Development Group
Founder of Share a Dream Foundation. This foundation was set up to
help children with a life threatening illness. In the 15 years that the
charity has been in existence it has made dreams come true for over
17,000 children. 127 children’s charities benefit from this charity
Jim Connolly
Fr. Aengus Finucane
Fr. Jack Finucane
Canon John Hayes
Shay Kinsella
Fr. Gerry O’Connor
Founder of SERVE charity to help the poorest of the poor
John O’Shea
Founder of Goal charity
LIMERICK - SAINTS – MARTYRS
Saint Ailbe
Feast Day: September 12
Saint Ita
Feast Day: January 15
Saint Lelia
Feast Day: September 12
Saint Munchin
Feast Day: January 2
Saint Nessan
Feast Day: July 25
Kilmallock Martyrs
Feast Day: June 20
From an old Irish word meaning "white," the 6th century Saint. Ailbe
was associated with the monastery at Emly in County Tipperary. The
local people requested that he bless a river that had no fish. St. Ailbe
did and that very day the river was filled with an abundance of fish.
The people built five churches in St. Ailbe's honour at the best fishing
spots along the river. Ailbe may be used for a boy or a girl.
Ailbe is associated with Knockainey in Limerick
Legend has it that she had a vision that she would see three heavenly
lights and the third light would indicate where she should build her
Monastery. The first light was on the Galtee Mountain, The second
light was on Mullaghareirk Mountain and the third was at a place
called Cluain Creadhail, now called Cill Ide, or Killeedy.
Ita died in 570 at Killeedy, where her grave is situated at the junction
of the nave and chancel of the Romanesque church. The grave is still
strewn with flowers by pilgrims in the summer, and her feast day is a
local holiday
The district of Killeely takes its name from “Lelia”, and probably
contains the site of a religious house over which she presided. No
incidents of her life are on record; she gets special honour in the
diocese of Limerick. The name “Lelia” is from”Liadhain”, a great grand
daughter of Cairthean whom Patrick baptised at Singland
Munchin’s birthplace is said to have been near Bruree. He founded a
church Cill Mhainchin, on Inis Sibhton, now Kings Island. He is
credited with founding a church at Mungret on the river Shannon near
where the City of Limerick now stands and to have been made a
bishop by Saint Patrick. According to local tradition the community
here contained had six churches and 1500 monks, 500 of whom were
devoted to preaching, another 500 or so organised as to provide a
perpetual full choir, performing day and night, while the remaining 500
were old men of exemplary piety and devoted themselves to
charitable and religious works. Munchin is the patron of the Diocese
of Limerick. In its heyday it boasted six churches
Nessan was a disciple of St. Patrick’s and was known as “Nessan the
Deacon”. He was also known as “Nessan the Leper”, presumably
because he was, or had been, afflicted with the disease. He is
reputed never to have told a lie. His monastery ranked among the
greatest abbeys and the learning of its monks was proverbial.
He died in 551.
At one time there were said to be six churches and 1500 religious in
the monastery. All that remains now are two ruined churches
The Kilmallock Martyrs Monument the work of the Newcastle West
sculptor, Cliodhna Cussen is located behind the present Catholic
Church a spot known locally as Crochta. It commemorates the three
martyrs - Patrick O’Hely, O.F.M. Bishop of Mayo and Fr. Conn
O’Rourke O.F.M. who were tortured and hanged here in 1579 and Fr.
Maurice MacKenraghty from Kilmallock who was hanged in Clonmel
1585. These three martyred priests were among the seventeen Irish
Martyrs beatified in Rome in 1992
PEOPLE WITH STRONG LIMERICK CONNECTIONS
Pat Cox
John Holland
John & Gertrude Hunt
President John FitzGerald
Kennedy (JFK)
Tom & Judy Kane
Count Franz Moritz Lacy
President MacMahon of
France
Brian Merriman
Patrick Sarsfield
Darren Shan
U2
Dr. Ed Walsh
Born in Dublin but raised in Limerick
President of EU, Freeman of Limerick, RTE Presenter
Born in Clare but the family moved to Limerick when he was young
where he went to school at Limerick’s Sexton Street CBS.
Inventor of the submarine, he credited his teacher Brother O’Brien in
Limerick CBS with his later success as an inventor
John was born in London & Gertrude was born in Mannheim.
They moved to Lough Gur Co. Limerick in 1939. They amassed a
spectacular collection of International works of art. They donated this
collection to Limerick where it is in the Hunt Museum Rutland Street.
The Hunts were made freemen of Limerick in 1997.
President JFK’s mother was a FitzGerald descended from Thomas
FitzGerald from Lough Gur who emigrated to the USA .
The presidential yacht was named Honey Fitz
Owners of Adare Manor, JP McManus charity golf classic & Irish
Open played in Adare golf club
Field Marshall Austrian Army, Son of Peter Lacy
Great grandson of Limerick man Patrick MacMahon.
President of France 1875-1879, Marshall French Army
Poet, Cúirt an Mheadhon-Oidhche (The Midnight Court)
Brian was born in Clare but he moved to Limerick where he had an
academy in Clare Street
Lord Lucan led cavalry charge that blew up the siege guns at
Ballyneety Co. Limerick which were on their way to break down the
walls of Limerick in 1690
Born Darren O’Shaughnessy, novelist (Vampire theme) moved to
Limerick aged 6 where he has lived ever since
The bands first big break came in 1978, winning a band competition
called the Harp Lager talent contest on St. Patrick’s day (March 17th)
in Limerick’s Savoy cinema and theatre, The prize was £500.
The band had changed its name from “Feedback” to “The Hype” and
Limerick was one of the first places that the name U2 was used.
Bono later recalled that they had beaten off many technically better
bands because of what he called “a spark”, which had produced a
great atmosphere on stage. One of the judges was Jackie Heyden of
CBS Records, who was impressed and arranged their first demo
session.
The trophy that they won in Limerick is now in the Rock & Roll hall of
fame in Cleveland, USA.
First President of the University of Limerick
Famous Sports People, see following Sporting Limerick Section
Rugby Union
Limerick is the home of the Spirit of Irish rugby supported by all the people, the doctors & the
dockers. Rugby is to Limerick what films are to Hollywood, a city wide obsession.
Munster play all their Heineken Cup matches at Thomond Park.
Munster play in Red the official colour of Limerick City
Munster beat the All Blacks 12 - 0 at Thomond Park Limerick, October 31st 1978.
The Limerick tradition of silence accorded for penalty kickers from both teams at Thomond Park is
renowned worldwide as an example of respect and best crowd behaviour.
The traditional rugby move of a Garryowen (an up and under kick) is named after one of Limerick’s
rugby clubs – Garryowen FC the only club in the World to have a rugby move named in their honour.
The site of the Battle of the Big Horn, fought between General Custer & Chief Sitting Bull in Montana
USA is called Garryowen which was the marching song of the US 7TH cavalry
A new 26,000 capacity stadium at Thomond Park is being built at a cost of approx € 40,000,000.
The Limerick Clubs are unique in each having their own songs:
PS: To hear 4 Limerick Rugby songs played go to web site and click on:

LIMERICK SONGS ('TIS OF LIMERICK WE SING)
The Planned New Thomond Park
Thomond, (Tuadh Mumhan)
North Munster, comprising Limerick,
Clare, North Tipperary, North Kerry,
South Offaly (Dal gCais tribe)
Some Famous Non Limerick Born Players
Mick Galway,Shannon,Ireland,Lion
Brian Spillane,Bohemians,,Ireland
Tony Ward,Garryowen,Ireland,Lion
Some Famous Limerick Rugby Players
Ter Casey, Young Munster, Munster, Ireland
Tom Clifford, Young Munster, Munster, Ireland, Lion
Peter Clohessy: Young Munster, Munster, Ireland, Lion
Denis Cussen, unattached, Ireland
Philip Danagher: Garryowen, Munster, Ireland,
Mick English: Bohemians, Munster, Ireland, Lion
Jerry Flannery, Shannon, Munster, Ireland
Anthony Foley: Shannon, Munster, Ireland,
Brendan Foley: Shannon, Munster, Ireland,
John FitzGerald: Young Munster, Ireland,
John Hayes: Shannon, Munster, Ireland, Lion
Pa Healy, Garryowen, Munster, Ireland
Paddy Lane, Old Crescent, Munster, Ireland
Gerry McLoughlin: Shannon, Munster, Ireland, Lion,
Bill Mulcahy: Bohemians, Munster, Ireland, Lion
Paul O’Connell: Young Munster, Munster, Ireland, Lion
Paddy Reid: Garryowen, Munster, Ireland
Tom Reid: Garryowen, Munster, Ireland, Lion
Danaher Sheehan, Young Munster, Munster, Ireland
Colm Tucker: Shannon, Munster, Ireland, Lion
David Wallace: Garryowen, Munster, Ireland, Lion
Paul Wallace: Garryowen, Munster, Ireland, Lion
Richard Wallace: Garryowen, Munster, Ireland, Lion
(Note: The 3 Wallace’s are brothers)
Pat Whelan: Garryowen, Munster, Ireland,
Gordon Wood: Garryowen, Munster, Ireland, Lion
Keith Wood: Garryowen, Munster, Ireland, Lion
Limerick has always been the home of the Spirit of Rugby in Ireland and the success of Limerick
Clubs in the All Ireland league & Munster competitions has been proof positive of this since its
inception.
YEAR
06/07
05/06
04/05
03/04
02/03
01/02
00/01
99/00
98/99
97/98
96/97
95/96
94/95
93/94
92/93
91/92
90/91
AIL WINNER
Garryowen
Shannon
Shannon
Shannon
Ballymena
Shannon
Dungannon
St Mary’s College
Cork Constitution
Shannon
Shannon
Shannon
Shannon
Garryowen
Young Munster
Garryowen
Cork Constitution
CITY
Limerick Clubs
Cork Clubs
Dublin Clubs
All Other Clubs
Total
ALL IRELAND LEAGUE (AIL) WINNERS
COUNTY - PROVENCE
RUNNER UP
Cork Constitution
Limerick - Munster
Clontarf
Limerick - Munster
Belfast Harlequins
Limerick - Munster
Cork Constitution
Limerick - Munster
Antrim - Ulster
Clontarf
Cork Constitution
Limerick - Munster
Tyrone - Ulster
Cork Constitution
Dublin - Leinster
Lansdowne
Cork - Munster
Garryowen
Limerick - Munster
Garryowen
Lansdowne
Limerick - Munster
Limerick - Munster
Garryowen
Blackrock College
Limerick - Munster
Cork Constitution
Limerick - Munster
Cork Constitution
Limerick - Munster
Limerick - Munster
Shannon
Cork - Munster
Garryowen
WINNERS
12
2
1
2
17
RUNNERS UP
5
6
5
1
17
COUNTY - PROVENCE
Cork- Munster
Dublin - Leinster
Antrim - Ulster
Cork - Munster
Dublin -Leinster
Cork - Munster
Cork - Munster
Dublin - Leinster
Limerick - Munster
Limerick - Munster
Dublin - Leinster
Limerick - Munster
Dublin - Leinster
Cork - Munster
Cork - Munster
Limerick - Munster
Limerick - Munster
TOTAL
17
8
6
3
34
Munster Senior Cup: This has been won by a team from Limerick every year since 1994
Munster Senior League: This has been won by a team from Limerick in 8 of the last 10 years
CLUB
Bruff RFC
Garryowen FC
Old Crescent RFC
Richmond RFC
Shannon RFC
Thomond RFC
UL Bohemians RFC
Young Munster RFC
LIMERICK SENIOR CLUBS
FOUNDED
1969
1884
1947
1927
1884
1944
1922
1895
GAA
Croke Park (then called Jones’s Road) was purchased by a Limerick man
Frank Dineen with his own money in 1908 for £3250, as the GAA had not
enough funds to pay for it them selves. Frank was finally repaid 5 years later
in 1913. Frank was the only person to hold both posts of President &
Secretary of the GAA.
Hill 16 Terrace in Croke Park was renamed Dineen / Hill 16 Terrace in his
honour in 2006. The GAA Munster council headquarters is located in Limerick.
The Sam Maguire All Ireland Football Trophy is designed as a replica of the
Ardagh Chalice.
All Ireland Senior Hurling Titles (7) 1897, 1918, 1921, 1934, 1936, 1940, 1973,
All Ireland Football Titles (2) 1887 (the first ever All Ireland) , 1896.
Senior Hurling League Titles (11) (including five in a row)
1934, 1935, 1936, 1937, 1938, 1947, 1971, 1984, 1985, 1992, 1997
Under 21 Hurling All Ireland’s (4) 1987, 2001, 2002, 2003
Munster Senior Hurling Titles: (18) 1897, 1910, 1911, 1918, 1921, 1923, 1933, 1934, 1935, 1936,
1940, 1955, 1973, 1974, 1980, 1981, 1994, 1996.
Munster Senior Football League Titles: (2) 1887, 1896.
Some Famous Limerick GAA Players
Mick Mackey: All Ireland Hurling winner 1934, 1936, 1940, credited with the first solo run in hurling
Jackie Power: All Ireland Hurling winner 1936, 1940, Managed Limerick in 1973 win over Kilkenny,
Timmy Ryan: All Ireland Hurling winner 1934, 1936, 1940, Captained Limerick to win magnificent
Reeves Trophy v New York in New York in 1936 & Owen Ward Cup in London in 1935.
LIMERICK ALL STAR HURLERS (43 awards)
Ritchie Bennis (1) 1973
Ciaran Carey (3) 1992, 1994, 1996
Dave Clarke (1) 1994
Eamon Cregan (3) 1971, 1972, 1980
Leonard Enright (3) 1980, 1981, 1983
Paudie Fitzmaurice (1) 1984
Mark Foley (2) 1996, 2001
Sean Foley (1) 1973
Eamonn Grimes (1) 1975
Bernie Hartigan (1) 1966
Pat Hartigan (5) 1971, 1972, 1973, 1974, 1975
Mike Houlihan (2) 1994, 1996
Paddy Kelly (1) 1984
Gary Kirby (4) 1991, 1994, 1995, 1996
Kevin Long (1) 1966
Joe McKenna (7) 1973, 1974, 1975, 1978, 1979, 1980, 1981
Jim O’Brien (1) 1973
Liam O’Donoghue (1) 1981
Joe Quaid (2) 1994, 1996
Tommy Quaid (1) 1992
Damien Quigley (1) 1994
GAA All-Time Star Award for former Hurlers. (This award in existence from 1980 until 1994)
Mick Mackey 1980, Garrett Howard 1982, Jackie Power 1991
All Ireland Senior Hurling Winning Teams (7):
1897: (17 a side) T. Brazil, P. Buskin, P. Butler, J. Catterall, J. Condon, M. Downes, J. Finn, M. Finn,
J. Flood, M. Flynn, P. Flynn, D. Grimes, J. Hanly, J. Hynes, P. Mulcahy, P. O’Brien, J. Reidy,
1918: (15 a side) B. McConkey, P. Barry, W. Hough, J. Humphreys, J. Keane, R. Lanigan,
P. Kennedy, J. Gleeson, M. Rochford, T. McGrath, M. Murphy, W. Ryan, P. McInerney, R. Ryan,
D. Troy.
1921: B. McConkey, W. Murphy, D. Murnane, J. Humphreys, D. Lanigan, W. Gleeson, J. Keane,
T. Mangan, M. Mullane, G. Howard, W. Hough, W. Ryan, P. McInerney, C. Ryan, T. McGrath.
1934: (draw) P. Scanlon, B. McConkey, E. Cregan, T. McCarthy, M. Cross, M. Kennedy, G. Howard,
P. Clohessy, M. Ryan, J. Mackey, T. Ryan, J. Roche, J. Close, D. Clohessy, M. Mackey,
Sub M. Condon.
1934: (replay) T. Shinny, E. Cregan, T. McCarthy, M. Cross, M. Kennedy, G. Howard, P. Clohessy,
M. Ryan, J. Mackey, T. Ryan, J. O’Connell, J. Roche, J. Close, D. Clohessy, M. Mackey.
1936: P. Scanlon, T. McCarthy, P. O’Carroll, M. Kennedy, M. Cross, P. Clohessy, G. Howard,
M. Ryan, T. Ryan, J. Mackey, M. Mackey, J. Roche, D. Clohessy, P. McMahon, J. Power
1940: P. Scanlon, J. McCarthy, M. Hickey, M. Kennedy, T. Cooke, P. Clohessy, P. Cregan, T. Ryan,
J. Roche, J. Mackey, M. Mackey, R. Stokes, E. Hawke, P. McMahon, J. Power, Sub: A. Herbert
1973: S. Horgan, W. Moore, P. Hartigan, J. O’Brien, P. Bennis, E. Cregan, S. Foley, R. Bennis,
E. Grimes, B. Hartigan, M. Dowling, L. O’Donoghue, F. Nolan, E. Rea, J. McKenna, Sub: T. Ryan
All Ireland Under 21 Hurling Winning Teams (4):
1987: V. Murnane, A. Madden, P. Carey, D. Flynn, D. Nash, A. O’Riordan, M. Reale, G. Hegarty,
J. O’Neill, G. Kirby, A. Carmody, G. Ryan, P. Barrett, J. O’Connor, L. O’Connor, Sub: D. Marren
2000: T. Houlihan, D. Reale, E. Mulcahy, P. Reale, P. O’Reilly, B. Geary, W. Walsh, J. Meskell,
S. Lucey, P. O’Grady, S. O’Connor, D. Stapleton, D. Sheehan, B. Begley, M. Keane. Sub: K. Tobin
2001: T. Houlihan, D. Reale, B. Carroll, E. Mulcahy, M. O’Riordan, B. Geary, M. O’Brien, P. Lawlor,
S. Lucey, E. Foley, K. Tobin, P. Tobin, C. Fitzgerald, N. Moran, M. Keane. Sub: A. O’Shaughnessy
2002: T. Houlihan, D. Reale, E. Mulcahy, M. Cahill, E. Foley, P. O’Dwyer, M. O’Brien, P. Lawlor,
N. Moran, C. Fitzgerald, J. O’Brien, K. Tobin, A. O’Shaughnessy, P. Kirby, M. Keane,
Subs: P. Tobin for Fitzgerald, B. Carroll for O’Dwyer, R. Hayes for M. O’Brien
All Ireland Senior Football Winning Teams (2):
1887: (21 a side) R. Breen, E. Casey, W. Cleary, D. Corbett, T. Fitzgibbon, P. Kelly, J. Hyland,
P.J. Corbett, T. Keating, T. Kennedy, J. Kennedy, W. Gunning, P. Keating, W. Spain, R. Normoyle,
M. O’Brien, E. Nicholas, T. McNamara, M. Slattery, J. Mulqueen, P. Reeves
1896: (17 a side) D. Birrane, J. Buttimer, T. Campion, J. Dalton, C. Fitzgerald, W. Guiry,
W. McNamara, J. Murphy, B. Murphy, J. Nash, J. O’Riordan, A. Quillinan, P. Roche, M. Ryan,
J. O’Riordan, L. Sheehan, L. Roche, Sub: J. Griffin
Limerick’s GAA stadium the Gaelic Grounds can hold 50,000 supporters and is the third largest
sporting stadium in Ireland.
Soccer
SENIOR SOCCER
Limerick first played senior soccer in 1937, Limerick was the first non
Dublin team to compete in European competition in 1960 versus Berne
Young Boys
Premier League winners: 1959/1960, 1979/1980,
First Division League winners: 1991/1992.
FAI Cup winners: 1970/1971 & 1981/1982
League Cup winners: 1976/1977,1992/1993, 2001/2002
Shield: 1953/1954, 1983/1984
Munster Senior Cup: 1938,1949,1954,1963,1977,1995
Dublin City Cup: 1958/1959, 1969/1970
Famous Limerick Soccer Players
Steve Finnan: Liverpool, Fulham, Notts County, Birmingham City, Welling
45 Caps, Current international, Champions league medal winner
Don Givens: Manchester Utd, Luton Town, QPR, Birmingham City, Bournmouth, Sheffield Utd.
Neuchatel Xamax. 56 Caps, 19 Goals
Holds the all time Irish record of average goals scored per game. Current Ireland under 21 manager
Al Finucane: Limerick, Waterford, Newcastlewest
11 Caps, Captained Ireland, League of Ireland & Limerick in the same year.
FAI Legend award 2007, FAI soccer personality of the year 1967. The oldest player to play European
Football aged 43. Only two players playing League of Ireland captained Ireland Al and Johnny Giles,
Al was never sent off in his career & he holds the record for most League of Ireland games played.
Thomas (Bud) Aherne: Limerick, Belfast Celtic, Luton Town. 16 Caps, played on first non British
team to beat England in England. Played in Liverpool on 21 Sept, 1949. Ireland 2 England 0
Bud was one of the few players who played for both Ireland’s as he was capped 4 times for Northern
Ireland who could choose player’s from the Republic for the British home Internationals
OTHER LIMERICK SENIOR INTERNATIONALS (No. of caps)
Johnny Gavin (7) Rory Keane (4) Joe Waters (2) Kevin Fitzpatrick (1) Johnny Walsh (1)
Tim Cunneen (1) Sean Cusack (1) Willie Hayes (1)
Some famous non Limerick born Players/Managers: Eoin Hand: Irish National Team manager,
Ewan Fenton: Blackpool, Sam Alderdyce: Bolton & Newcastle United Manager,
Tony Ward: Rugby International
JUNIOR SOCCER
Fairview Rangers have won the FAI Junior cup seven times,
(No other team has won the trophy more often) This is the most difficult sporting trophy to win in any
Irish sport with 600 teams competing in a cup knock out completion.
Limerick winners of the FAI Junior Cup
Fairview Rangers (7) 2003/04, 2002/03, 2001/02, 1998/99, 1997/98, 1996/97, 1964/65
Caledonians (1) 1969/1970
WOMENS SOCCER
Yvonne Treacy has won 45 Irish senior caps, captained Ireland at U16 & U18.
A member of the Arsenal team that has won 1 European, 5 League titles and two FA Cups
Limerick Olympians
Limerick born athletes have won 10 medals at the Olympics:
5 Gold, 4 Silver & 1 Bronze medals
A Gold and a Silver medal was also won at the 1906 special
Intercalated Games in Athens in 1906
Famous Limerick Medal Winning Olympians
ATHLETE
John Flanagan
GAMES
EVENT(S)
Paris 1900
Gold, Hammer Throw 49.73m
St. Louis 1904 Gold, Hammer Throw 51.23m
St. Louis 1904 Silver, 25.4kg Weight Throw, 10.16m
London 1908
Gold, Hammer Throw 51.92m
Patrick (Paddy) Leahy Paris 1900
Silver, High Jump 1.78m
Paris 1900
Bronze, Long Jump 6.95m
Gold,High Jump (see note 1) 1.775m
Cornelius (Con) Leahy Athens 1906
Athens 1906
Silver,Triple Jump (see note 1) 14.915m
London 1908
Silver, High Jump 1.88m
Patrick (Pat) Ryan
Antwerp 1920
Gold, Hammer 52.875m
Antwerp 1920
Silver, 25.4 KG Weight Throw 10.965
Timothy J. Ahearne
London 1908
Gold, Triple Jump 14.92m
Note 1: The Athens 1906 Intercalated games were not classified as full Olympics
The following Limerick Men also participated in the Olympics:
ATHLETE
GAMES
EVENT(S)
Sydney 2000
4 x 100m relay team
Tom Comyns
Munich 1972
10,000m
Neil Cusack
Montreal 1976
Marathon
Physiotherapist, USA team
Barcelona 1992
Gerard Hartmann
Physiotherapist, Irish team
Atlanta 1996
Physiotherapist, UK team
Sydney 2000
Physiotherapist, UK team
Athens 2004
Atlanta 1996
Manager Irish Olympic Team
Dermot Henigan
Sydney 2000
Athens 2004
Rome 1960
10,000m
Jim Hogan
Tokyo 1964
Marathon
Athens 2004
Middleweight Boxing
Andy Lee
Atlanta 1996
Rowing
Sam Lynch
Sydney 2000
Rowing
Athens 2004
Rowing
Los Angeles 1984
1500m
Frank O’Meara
Barcelona 1992
1500m
Seoul 1988
5000m
Montreal 1976
800m
Neil O’Shaughnessy
Moscow 1980
1500m
Moscow 1980
5000m
Mick O’Shea
Ireland was given a formal recognition as an independent nation in the Olympic movement in Paris in
1924 and it was at these games that Ireland made its first appearance as an independent nation.
Other Limerick Sporting Facts
ATHLETICS
BASKETBALL
BOXING
CRICKET
FENCING
FLYING
GOLF CLUBS
GREYHOUND
RACING
HANDBALL
HOCKEY
HORSE
RACING
LAWN TENNIS
MUSEUM
POLO
POWERLIFTING
ROWING
CLUBS
UL ARENA
WATERPOLO
YACHT CLUB
The Limerick Athletic Club was formed in 1877
John O’Grady, Weight Thrower was 3 times world champion and 7 times national
champion. A monument in his honour is erected in Mulgrave street
Limerick Lions Men & UL Aughinish Women clubs operates from the UL Arena
Andy Lee from Limerick has turned professional and has won his 11th pro fight
Andy competed in the Olympics in Athens 2004 before turning professional
The Limerick Cricket Club was formed in 1968
Limerick School of Arms, Ireland’s only dedicated Fencing facility
The Limerick Flying Club operates from Coonagh Airfield
Abbeyfeale, Adare, Adare Manor (Adare Manor will host the Irish Open in 2007,
2008, and 2009), Castletroy, Limerick County, Limerick, Newcastle West,
Rathbane (Public)
UNIGOLF: The Unigolf Club is a unique concept boasting an 18 hole Indoor
Putting Course, along with a state of the art Golf Teaching Academy.
Located at the National Technology Park at Castletroy it is the first Indoor Golf
Facility and Teaching academy of its kind in the world
The Headquarters of Bord na gCon (Irish Greyhound Racing Board) are located
in Limerick, A new €20,000,000 stadium is planned for Greenpark in 2010.
Clounanna (near Adare) is the venue for Ireland’s premier coursing event
JJ Bowles has a record of winning twenty-five All Ireland Handball titles in a row
Catholic Institute was formed in 1910, the club is non denominational and caters
for 4 sports: Hockey, Squash, Tennis & Pitch & Putt
Limerick is home to a new state of the art racecourse built in 2001
Michael Hourigan, trainer of Beef or Salmon is Limerick based
Limerick Lawn Tennis Club is Ireland’s oldest tennis club and one of the top
sporting amenities in Ireland
12 Artificial Grass Courts – Floodlights on all, 3 Championship Squash Courts
Limerick’s sports museum is located in UL
The first Polo game to be played in Europe was played in by the 10th Hussars
based in Limerick in 1868, Polo is the oldest team sport
Tommy Dillon formed the Southill Weight Power lifting Club in 1985.
This club has won more that 36 European & World titles,
The World Power lifting Championships was held in Limerick in 2006
Limerick has five Rowing Clubs:
Athlunkard Rowing Club, Castleconnell Rowing Club, Limerick Rowing Club
Shannon Rowing Club, St. Michael’s Rowing Club,
University of Limerick Rowing Club
Sam Lynch has won World Titles for rowing in 2001 & 2002
The UL Arena is Ireland’s foremost sporting arena.
Indoor: National 50m swimming pool,
National Strength & conditioning Centre,
Cardio Fitness Centre,
4 Court Sports Hall
Outdoor: 400m International Athletic Track,
Outdoor Pitches GAA, Soccer, Rugby, Floodlight Astroturf Pitch
Irish National Waterpolo’s “Centre of Excellence” is based at UL
Foynes Yacht Club is located on the Shannon Estuary, 25 miles from the City
Ardagh Chalice & O’Dea
Mitre & Crozier
Belltable Arts Centre
Daghdha Dance Company
– based in St. Johns Square
Dolans Warehouse
Dominican International
Biblical Institute
EVA
Hunt Museum
Irish Chamber Orchestra
(based at UL)
Irish Harp Centre
Irish World Academy of
Music and Dance (UL)
Island Theatre Company
Limerick Art Society
Limerick Choirs
Limerick City Art Gallery
Limerick Civic Trust
Limerick College of Art &
Design
Limerick Marching Bands
Poetry
Lyric FM
Millennium Theatre LIT
Riverfest Festival
Shannon International
Music Festival
Sionna Music Festival
Tops Of The Town
University Concert Hall
Walls of Limerick Dance
The Capital of Culture in Ireland
The Ardagh Chalice, the Arthur Cross & Chalice and the Bishop
O’Dea mitre and Crozier are among Ireland’s greatest treasures
Contact point for the arts in the Mid West, the Belltable Arts Centre
provides access to all forms of performance and visual arts including:
Theatre, Dance, Music and Literature
Group of active highly skilled individuals dedicated to a rigorous
discourse in dance, choreography, arts & culture
One of Ireland’s foremost intimate venues
Established in 2006. International Institute for Biblical Study.
The top floor has a specialist research library
EVA the foremost contemporary art show in Ireland
Internationally important collection of 2000 works of art & antiquities,
includes works by Renoir, Picasso, Leonardo da Vinci
The Irish Chamber Orchestra is a highly distinguished national
institution fulfilling a broad remit both in Ireland and internationally
Home of the Irish or Celtic Harp and the National Harp Orchestra
The Irish World Academy of Music and Dance is a centre of academic
and performance excellence based at the University of Limerick
Island Theatre Company has been producing high quality theatre for
audiences in Limerick City, the Midwest-Shannon region and all over
Ireland, with a mixture of established classics and new writing
Founded in 1942, this is the oldest Art Society in Ireland
Limerick has many famous choirs, McCormack Singers, Voices of
Limerick, University of Limerick, Limerick Choral Union, M.I.C. Choral
Society. There are also many church choirs
Painting Collection 18th, 19th & 20th century painters
Collection of Drawings, Sculpture, Photography & Multi Media
Ireland’s leading conversation charity
Highly acclaimed College with courses in Painting, printmaking,
sculpture, Graphics, Ceramics, Fashion
There is an International marching band festival held in March each
year attended by more that 30 bands and watched by 30,000 people
Weekly Poetry Sessions (White House Bar, O’Connell St.)
International Poetry Festival (Cuisle)
Irelands national classical music station broadcasts from Limerick
Limerick’s cultural scene was significantly enhanced in March 2003
when the magnificent new 350-seat Millennium Theatre at LIT opened
Various activities including Ireland’s largest outdoor BBQ
Shannon International Music Festival (formerly Killaloe Music Festival)
hosted by the Irish Chamber Orchestra has become one of the
foremost events in the Irish classical music calendar
Sionna is a series of annual festivals of traditional music taking place
in Limerick city. The festival includes music, song and dance from
Ireland, England, Scotland, Hungary, France, India and the USA
This was originated in Limerick in 1962
1000 capacity custom built concert hall for Concerts, Recitals, Drama,
Dance & Grand Opera
The Walls of Limerick – Traditional Ceilí formation dance
History of the Limerick
A Limerick is a rhyming, humorous, and often nonsensical five-line poem,
The first, second and fifth lines rhyme (forming a triplet) and have the same number of syllables.
The third and fourth rhyme (forming a couplet) and have the same number of syllables.
Limericks often begin with the words: There once was. . . or There was a.
IE The format is : a-a-b-b-a
Historically Limerick’s are first credited to two Limerick poets (The Maigue Poets called after the river
Maigue) in the 17th century Sean O’Tuama and Andreas MacCraith from Croom in Co. Limerick.
O’Tuama later owned a pub in Limerick City and the tradition of the Limerick comes from there.
O’ Tuama wrote:
"I sell the best Brandy and Sherry
To make all my customers merry,
But at times their finances
Run short as it chances,
And then I feel very sad, very".
To which MacCraith replied……..
"O’Tuama! You boast yourself handy,
At selling good ale and bright Brandy
But the fact is your liquor
Makes everyone sicker,
I tell you this I your good friend, Andy".
Other Limerick Facts and Figures (continued)
Population 2002 Census
Limerick City 54,023, County Limerick 121,281, Total Population of Limerick 175,304
Business Limerick
Limerick has the third highest income per capita in Ireland after Dublin & Kildare (See chart)
Limerick is the Capital of the Mid West region and accounts for more than 20% of Irelands exports.
Limerick City (2005) was the first local authority in Ireland ever to have a rate reduction
Dell Computers European & Middle East manufacturing plant is in Raheen with 3500 workers
Limerick is also home to Analogue Devices, Cook Ireland (Ireland’s exporter of the year 2006),
Stryker Orthopaedics, Vistakon (Johnson & Johnson) contact lenses.
The Limerick Clothing Factory established in 1850 was the one of the first automated factories in the
world. Using steam powered sewing machines, more than 1000 workers made uniforms for the
British Army, Confederate Army and many other armies and police forces worldwide.
Education Limerick
Limerick City has 20,000 third level students attending the following institutions:
University of Limerick (UL) Limerick Institute of Technology (LIT)
Mary Immaculate Teacher Training College (Mary I) Limerick College of Art and Design (LCAD)
Shopping Limerick
Limerick has many shopping centres, Crescent, Eastway, Parkway, Castletroy, Arthurs Quay,
Jetland, (Coonagh Bedford Row & Opera under construction) and of course the city centre shops.
Agricultural Limerick
Ireland’s first dairy co-operative was formed at Dromcollagher Co. Limerick in 1889
The most fertile farming land in Ireland is in Limerick’s Golden Vale
The Irish Creamery Milk Suppliers Association (ICMSA) HQ is in Limerick
The Limerick Show is Munster’s largest Agricultural Show (based at Limerick Racecourse)
Pallaskenry Agricultural College & the Organic Farm College is based in Dromcollogher
Irish Coffee
Irish Coffee was invented in Foynes Limerick.
This was given to passengers on the transatlantic sea plane flights on arrival at Foynes.
Peoples Republic
The workers of Limerick declared a “Limerick Soviet” and took control of the city from the British from
Monday 14th April 1919 to Monday 28th April 1919.
Ireland’s Oldest Newspaper / Ireland’s Tallest Spire & Tallest Hotel / Longest Dry Spell
The Limerick Chronicle was first published in 1766 and is Ireland’s oldest newspaper still in
production. The Limerick Leader was first published in 1889.
St. John’s Cathedral has Ireland’s tallest Spire at 308 feet 3 inches (93.95 m)
The Clarion is Ireland’s tallest hotel.
The longest continuous dry spell in Ireland was recorded in Limerick when it did not rain for 37 days
from April 3rd to May 10th 1938.
Limerick Lace
Limerick Lace is famous worldwide
Quotations about Limerick
“I urge you to come see the spiritual home of Irish Rugby, the home of smutty poetry and the region
with some of the best golf clubs, best pubs and the best people in the world.”
Michael O’Leary, CEO Ryanair, 2006
“Limerick never left me, whatever it is, my identity is Limerick. I am so pleased that I am from
Limerick. I am grateful that I grew up in a small town where I had a sense of my own identity; it was a
lovely place to grow up in. My message to Limerick is: have a lot of confidence – get on with it. If
Limerick’s estimate of itself is strong, then in a very, short time the rest of Ireland and the world will
take Limerick at its own valuation. The Limerick man has certain nobility that is epitomised in
Thomond Park; it is extraordinary, it is Corinthian.”
Terry Wogan, Broadcaster, 2006
“I was astonished at the transformation of Limerick city since I was last there. The
entire area around the docks, for so long run-down and dilapidated, is now an
impressive boulevard, with buildings so bold in design and impressive in aspect that
they make the IFSC in Dublin seem timid and shy.”
Gay Byrne, Broadcaster, 2006
“The friendliest place in Ireland is indisputably Limerick City, it’s a special place.”
George Hook, Rugby pundit and Radio Presenter, 2007
“When you play Munster in Thomond Park you can appreciate how the early Christians felt in the
Colosseum.”
Earl Kirton, Former all Black, 1963
“The heroes of Limerick rugby are my heroes. Gladiators, square-jawed warriors who represent us
on the battlefield. They are also heroes off the field - men who can drink, sing and talk of great
deeds.”
Richard Harris, Actor, 1982
”I was born in Dublin but I was reared in Limerick, My sense of place is Limerick. I went to school
here, I met my wife here and I had children here. I am deeply rooted here and deeply emotional
about the city”
Pat Cox, Former EU President, 2002
When JFK visited Limerick he asked the US ambassador what was Limerick famous for and the
response was “fast horses and beautiful women”
John FitzGerald Kennedy, US President, Greenpark, 1963
”Limerick is one of the friendliest cites in Ireland and always had a special place in my heart”
Brendan Kennelly, Poet, 2006
”Limerick is the best sporting city in Ireland”
Micheal O’Muircheartaigh, TV & Radio commentator, 2007
Bridges of Limerick City area
BRIDGE
Abbey
Athlunkard
Baal’s
Guinness
Kevin Hannon
Living
Matthew
O’Dwyer
Sarsfield
Shannon
Sylvester
O’Halloran
Thomond
University
DESCRIPTION
This bridge over the Abbey River was opened in 1999 and was named after the
Abbey River fishermen who fished there for many years
Athlunkard Bridge over the Shannon River (1830) was called after the name of the
general area in its vicinity. Originally a toll bridge (toll booth is still visible) it was
declared toll free in 1884. Athlunkard Boat Club is located at the City side of the
bridge
This bridge over the Abbey River connects English Town and Irish Town. In 1340 a
charter was granted for building it. The present Baal’s Bridge was erected in 1831
by the direction of Thomas Spring Rice
This bridge over the Grand Canal was opened in 1997
This bridge over the Grand Canal was named after local historian Kevin Hannon
This bridge over the Shannon River was built at a cost of €16,000,000 in 2007 and
at 350 metres this will be the longest pedestrian bridge in Ireland and will serve to
connect the North and South elements of the UL academic community and
campus. The bridge will form a vital link between the Library, Concert Hall and
Millstream developments on the Limerick shore, to the Health Sciences and Irish
World Performing Arts Village on the North campus, which is situated in Clare
For some time before its erection there was a ferry between Bank Place and Quay
Lane. In 1762 a bridge over the Abbey River of three arches was erected in place
of the ferry. But it was dangerous to traffic so was re-built between 1844 and 1864
and called Matthew Bridge in honour of Fr. Matthew the temperance reformer
O’Dwyer Bridge over the Shannon River at the end of Athlunkard Street, was built
in 1826 – 1830 and joins the counties of Limerick and Clare. It is near the ford
where King William’s army crossed in 1690
Sarsfield Bridge is the last bridge that spans the Shannon River before its entry into
the Atlantic at Loop Head. Designed by Alexander Nimmo who modelled it on the
Pont Neuilly across the Seine in Paris, it was originally called Wellesley Bridge
named after Richard, Marquis of Wellesley (a brother of the Duke of Wellington),
who was Lord Lieutenant of Ireland in 1823 when the Act for the building of the
bridge was passed. The foundation stone was laid in 1824, and it was completed
eleven years later at a cost of £90,000. The Earl of Mulgrave, Lord Lieutenant of
Ireland, opened it in 1835 and it was a toll bridge until 1883 when the Corporation
changed its name to Sarsfield Bridge. Limerick & Shannon rowing clubs are on this
bridge.
This bridge over the Shannon River in the City Centre was opened in the late
1980’s
This is the footbridge to the Milk Market over the Abbey River. The bridge is named
after the Limerick born founder of Ireland’s College of Surgeons
King John caused a bridge over the Shannon River to be erected about 1210 A.D.
There was a fortified gate-house at the city end and a drawbridge at the seventh
arch (there were 14 arches) and this was called Thomond Gate. Though this bridge
cost only £30 it lasted 600 years. It was taken down in 1838 and the new one
erected on the same site in 1840, cost £10,000
This Bridge over the Shannon River is the first vehicular bridge to be built between
counties Limerick and Clare in over three centuries. The 150-metre crossing was
constructed at a cost of € 13,000,000 in 2004.
6000 Years of Limerick History 4000 BC– 2007 AD
BC: 4000 Stone age houses built in Kilmallock (replicas in Kilmallock Museum)
BC: 3000 Lough Gur is inhabited 5000 years ago
(Older than the Pyramids)
AD: c 433 St. Patrick visits Limerick
652 Death of St. Munchin, first Bishop and Patron Saint of Limerick
831 Viking ships first appear on the Shannon
922 Vikings under Tomar establish a permanent settlement on Inis Sibhton
977 Final defeat of Limerick Vikings by Brian Boru
1101 King Murtough O’Brien, great-grandson of Brian Boru established Limerick as his
Royal City (this was previously in Cashel)
1194 Death of King Donal Mor O’Brien,
Normans take city
1197 Prince John, Lord of Ireland, grants first charter to city
c 1210 King John’s Castle and Thomond Bridge completed
1227 Dominican Friary founded by Donough Cairbreach O’Brien
1237
c 1260
1310
1316
1340
1423
1449
1467
1495
1505
1543
1575
1642
1644
1651
1690
1691
1697
1715
1745
1751
1760
1762
1768
1769
1770
1805
1807
1813
1815
1824
1826
1829
1831
1835
Toll granted for erection of new walls around city
Franciscan Friary founded by Donough Cairbreach O’Brien
Grant for the walling of Irish town
Limerick captured by Edward Bruce of Scotland
Charter for building Baal’s Bridge
Charter of Henry VI forbidding the Irish from holding any civic office
The Tholsel (town hall) being built on Mary Street
Mint set up in Limerick
Completion of the walling of Irish town
A great galley was built to protect the port from pirates
Edmund Sexton granted the monastic lands of the Augustinian and Franciscans by
Henry VIII
Charter of Elizabeth granted the civic sword
The Catholic Confederacy occupied Limerick and captured the castle after a siege
Pope Innocent X granted a Papal University to Limerick for the Catholic
Confederation
Siege and capture of Limerick by Cromwellian forces under Henry Ireton
King William II forced to raise his siege of Limerick
Surrender of Limerick to General Ginkel following acceptance of the Treaty of
Limerick guaranteeing Civil Military & Religious rights
Ratification of the Treaty of Limerick in mutilated form by the Irish Parliament
The treaty broken, ere the ink wherewith 'twas writ could dry,
Jean Baptiste MacMahon was born in Dooradoyle, his grandson Marshall
MacMahon later become the President of France
The French Army were being defeated at the battle of Fontenoy on
11 May 1745 when the Irish regiments went into the attack and won the battle.
These were the Irish who had left Limerick after the Treaty of Limerick. As they
attacked their battle cry was
"Cuimnidh ar Luimneach” ( "Remember Limerick”.)
St. John’s Square built
Dismantling of the city walls.
Weekly coach to Dublin established, a four day journey
New Bridge (now Mathew Bridge) completed
Limerick Chronicle Founded,
Irelands oldest newspaper still being published
Company formed by act of Parliament to construct a canal to Killaloe
Streets of Newtown Pery marked out by Edward Sexton Pery.
Custom House built (now Hunt Museum) Rutland Street completed
Limerick’s first theatre opened on Playhouse Lane
Limerick Chamber of Commerce established
St. Michael’s Parish Commissioners established to run the Georgian City
Meteorite falls on city September 10 (H5 Veined Chrondrite)
Bianconi coach to Clonmel established
Newtown lit by gas
Company formed to supply the city with piped water
Limerick Lace industry established by Charles Walker of Oxfordshire
Barrington’s Hospital founded
Sarsfield bridge completed, modelled on Pont Neuilly, Seine, Paris
1841 The reformed Corporation Act declared for Limerick. Popular council elected
1848 Limerick to Dublin railway connection established
1850 Peter Tait’s Limerick Clothing Factory established.
The world’s first ready-to-wear factory. Steam Press Operated
1889 Limerick Leader first published, Friday August 9th
1853 Floating Dock opened in Limerick City
1856 Building of St. John’s Cathedral begun
1868 Ardagh Chalice found in county Limerick.
The jewel in the crown in Ireland’s national Museum
1877 Limerick win first ever GAA football All Ireland
(Teams were 21 a side at this time)
1889 Ireland’s first dairy co-operative was formed at Dromcollagher Co. Limerick
1900 John Flanagan wins Olympic Gold medal in Paris in the Hammer
1903 City Library foundation stone laid by Andrew Carnegie
1904 John Flanagan wins Olympic Gold medal in St. Louis in the Hammer
and also a Silver medal in the 25k weight Throw
1906 Munster – Connaught Exhibition of manufacturers held
1908 John Flanagan wins Olympic Gold medal in London in the Hammer.
Timothy Aherne wins Olympic Gold medal in Hop, Step & Jump
1919 Limerick Soviet established. Takeover of city by workers Trades Council in protest at
British Military Action from April 15 to April 27.
Bobby Byrne from Limerick on the 6th April becomes the first volunteer to die in the
War of Independence after 1916. Two RIC also shot in Bobby’s rescue attempt.
Sean Hogan rescued from train at Knocklong Station
1920 Irelands first Flying Column formed in War of Independence.
Mayor George Clancy & Former Mayor Michael O’Callaghan shot by British Forces.
Pat Ryan wins Olympic Gold medal in Antwerp in the Hammer
and also a Silver medal in the 25k weight Throw
1921 Murder of Mayor George Clancy and ex Mayor Michael O’Callaghan by British Army
1922 British forces depart.
Civil War, Free Munster Republic declared,
Free State troops lay siege and capture the city
1925 Shannon hydro-electric scheme begun at Ardnacrusha built by Siemens
1928 Young Munster defeat Lansdowne 6-3 on April 14th to win All Ireland Bateman Cup
in Rugby Union
1930 Plans are drawn up by Limerick Harbour Commissioners for a Tramway System of
eleven separate tram lines for Limerick City. (This was never completed)
1938 Longest absolute draught ever recorded in Ireland occurred in Limerick for 37
consecutive days from 3 April to 10 May 1938
1956 Séan South shot dead in raid on Brookeborough Barracks in Fermanagh.
1959 Todd’s (now Brown Thomas) destroyed by fire on August 25th
1962 Limerick gets its first Ban Garda
1963 President John F Kennedy visits Limerick and addresses the people at Greenpark
Racecourse
1970 National Institute for Higher Education (NIHE) established (now the University of
Limerick) President Richard M Nixon visits Limerick
1978 Munster defeat New Zealand 12 – Nil at Thomond Park
U2 get first national recognition when they win talent contest in Limerick’s Savoy
Theatre
1979 Pope John Paul II visits Limerick and is greeted by 300,000 people
1998 President William J. Clinton visits Limerick City and Adare Co. Limerick
2003 The Irish Heritage Council and Northern Ireland Museum Council awarded the Hunt
Museum with the Museum of the Year Award
2004 Princess Anne of England visits on 10 September
2006 Shannon win eight AIL rugby league
Munster win Heineken Cup in Cardiff
British Deputy Prime Minister John Prescott visits Limerick to view urban renewal
undertaken in the City, which is regarded as a model of effective urban renewal for
other areas.
2007 Work begins on €40,000,000 Thomond Park redevelopment
Garryowen win AIL League for the third time
The “Nail” may be seen in the City Museum
The Nail is a pillar topped with a circular plate of copper about three feet in
diameter
This was where the Merchant Prince’s of Limerick made their payments in the
Limerick Stock Exchange hence the expression
Pay on the nail - make prompt cash payment
THOMAS SPRING RICE MONUMENT
PEOPLES PARK
LEONARDO DA VINCI HORSE
HUNT MUSEUM
Total Income per person by County 2004 (Republic of Ireland)
Based on Last Central Statistics Office Census Published Results
Limerick has the third highest per capita income based on the last published census
results (2004)
RANK
1
2
3
4
5
State Average
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
COUNTY
Dublin
Kildare
Limerick
Cork
Louth
Galway
Sligo
Tipperary North
Clare
Waterford
Westmeath
Wicklow
Meath
Monaghan
Laois
Leitrim
Tipperary South
Cavan
Mayo
Longford
Offaly
Wexford
Carlow
Roscommon
Kerry
Kilkenny
Donegal
Total income per person 2004 €
26,229
24,290
24,185
23,445
23,291
23,221
22,920
22,553
22,437
22,403
22,346
22,261
22,214
21,953
21,423
21,214
21,020
20,897
20,853
20,509
20,456
20,422
20,295
20,287
20,093
19,796
19,639
19,361
Note: Tipperary is divided into North & South for Government purposes.
Source: www.cso.ie/releasespublications/documents/economy/2001/regincome_2001.pdf
Overseas visitors to Ireland 2005
Based on Last Central Statistics Office Census Published Results
Limerick has the seventh highest overseas visitors to Ireland by county 2005 and the
most visitors for any inland county.
RANK
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
COUNTY
Total
Britain
Dublin
Cork
Galway
Kerry
Clare
Waterford
Limerick
Kilkenny
Wicklow
Mayo
Wexford
Tipperary
Kildare
Donegal
Sligo
Meath
Westmeath
Louth
Cavan
Offaly
Carlow
Roscommon
Monaghan
Laois
Leitrim
Longford
3,937,000
1,006,000
869,000
821,000
544,000
361,000
336,000
296,000
267,000
247,000
217,000
197,000
185,000
171,000
123,000
117,000
117,000
92,000
91,000
57,000
56,000
45,000
42,000
41,000
37,000
33,000
1,931,000
513,000
301,000
246,000
155,000
155,000
143,000
111,000
124,000
111,000
127,000
100,000
114,000
64,000
46,000
66,000
58,000
54,000
64,000
36,000
31,000
27,000
33,000
28,000
30,000
23,000
Source: www.failteireland.ie
Mainland
Europe
1,175,000
194,000
223,000
172,000
97,000
82,000
64,000
98,000
88,000
53,000
53,000
43,000
40,000
35,000
28,000
29,000
35,000
22,000
8,000
11,000
15,000
6,000
3,000
5,000
2,000
5,000
North
America
625,000
230,000
280,000
339,000
262,000
104,000
106,000
69,000
42,000
70,000
24,000
43,000
22,000
58,000
39,000
18,000
19,000
12,000
15,000
8,000
6,000
9,000
5,000
5,000
4,000
4,000
Other
Areas
206,000
69,000
65,000
64,000
30,000
20,000
23,000
18,000
13,000
13,000
13,000
11,000
9,000
14,000
10,000
4,000
5,000
4,000
4,000
2,000
4,000
3,000
1,000
3,000
1,000
1,000
Official Garda Sίochána Serious Headline Crime Statistics 1998 – 2005 for the 25 Garda Sίochána
Regions of Ireland
Crime Rates per 1000 population
Headline Crimes Include:
Murder, Manslaughter, Sexual Offences, Robberies, Burglaries & Thefts.
Source: www.garda.ie/angarda/annreport.html
The official Garda Sίochána crime statistics for the years 1998 – 2005 confirm that Limerick has had
an 8 year cumulative lower than the national average for Ireland (ROI) serious crime rate per 1000
compared to other Garda Sίochána Regions
GARDA REGION
1998
Per
1000
1999
Per
1000
2000
Per
1000
2001
Per
1000
2002
Per
1000
2003
Per
1000
2004
Per
1000
2005 TOTAL 8 Year
Per 8 Years Average
1000 Per 1000 Per 1000
DUBLIN - NORTH
146.97 139.18 124.00 134.45 171.37 132.66 119.72 114.57 1082.92
CENTRAL
DUBLIN - SOUTH
123.96 112.61 97.49 105.67 120.07 107.38 95.78 93.86
856.82
CENTRAL
DUBLIN – WESTERN
25.40 24.16 23.22 32.18 36.43 31.68 30.63 29.49
233.19
DUBLIN – SOUTHERN 29.59 26.60 23.80 28.03 32.67 28.54 31.35 29.44
230.02
CORK CITY
28.73 26.21 20.93 24.21 30.36 26.53 26.82 27.81
211.60
DUBLIN – EASTERN
28.07 25.94 23.84 22.49 27.68 27.80 26.21 27.22
209.25
AVERAGE FOR
IRELAND (ROI)
LIMERICK
DUBLIN – NORTHERN
WATERFORD /
KILKENNY
CARLOW / KILDARE
LONGFORD /
WESTMEATH
LOUTH / MEATH
WEXFORD /
WICKLOW
GALWAY WEST
SLIGO / LEITRIM
LAOIS / OFFALY
CLARE
CORK NORTH
DONEGAL
CAVAN / MONAGHAN
TIPPERARY
KERRY
MAYO
CORK WEST
ROSCOMMON/
GALWAY EAST
135.37
107.10
29.15
28.75
26.45
26.16
23.61
22.41
20.21
23.89
29.35
26.39
25.26
25.95
197.07
24.63
19.21
22.47
18.35
19.50
16.75
19.64
21.48
22.66
29.35
26.06
27.46
26.83
25.57
27.60
31.85
24.63
190.02
189.39
23.75
23.67
19.16
19.71
20.98
18.79
20.05
18.23
23.29
21.97
25.01
27.17
25.81
23.57
23.37
23.06
25.18
23.87
182.85
176.37
22.86
22.05
17.40
21.56
18.44
20.18
16.69
16.26
19.07
18.59
26.93
23.08
24.41
19.14
23.71
19.83
24.40
21.81
171.05
160.45
21.38
20.06
15.99
15.63
13.10
11.17
12.04
14.00
10.11
10.30
10.57
11.57
8.32
10.26
17.52
15.40
13.12
12.90
9.85
12.31
11.15
9.70
10.53
10.92
8.84
10.70
15.89
13.36
15.16
13.03
8.40
10.09
8.40
8.95
10.21
10.38
8.77
8.93
18.10
20.93
16.10
15.76
16.48
12.63
10.99
13.38
13.55
13.10
10.85
11.02
23.59
27.00
19.87
21.85
19.86
17.48
18.46
17.26
14.74
14.19
16.02
13.17
20.76
20.84
21.46
20.05
18.26
15.61
17.60
16.53
14.59
13.22
13.74
10.96
20.81
18.56
18.98
20.07
16.56
12.91
16.08
14.65
14.85
12.76
10.89
10.89
22.58
23.33
19.52
21.32
15.55
15.66
15.72
16.84
15.43
14.60
11.63
11.39
155.24
155.05
137.31
136.15
117.00
110.69
108.51
107.61
104.47
100.74
89.06
87.32
19.41
19.38
17.16
17.02
14.63
13.84
13.56
13.45
13.06
12.59
11.13
10.92
8.89
9.47
8.27
9.58
14.45
11.61
12.07
11.42
85.76
10.72
Treasures of Limerick
Ardagh Chalice (Circa 800 – 899 AD)
Location: National Museum, Kildare Street, Dublin, Ireland
Ardagh Chalice
The name of Ardagh Co. Limerick is inextricably linked to the Ardagh Chalice. Ireland's foremost
treasure is currently housed in the National Museum of Ireland and is considered the `Jewel in the
Crown' of all exhibits there. The beautifully proportioned Ardagh Chalice is the finest example of
eighth century metalwork ever to have come to light. Standing six inches high, it is made of silver
The Ardagh Chalice came to light in September 1868, by two men digging for potatoes in a ring fort
at Recast, Ardagh. They were Jimmy Quinn and Paddy Flanagan. They came across a metal object
and they decided to find out what the object was. They discovered a brooch, a cross, and a beautiful
cup. It was the Ardagh Chalice.
The Ardagh Chalice is considered to be the finest example of Celtic art to be found. It has two
handles, one on either side. The colours of the chalice are made up of gold, silver, bronze, brass,
copper and lead. It is made up of 354 pieces, including twenty rivets. There is a beautiful band
running on the outside of the chalice, and it is engraved with the names of the twelve Apostles. It is
one of the most valuable chalices to be found and it is now property of the National Museum in
Ireland.
Bishop Arthur of Limerick Cross and Chalice 1625
Location: Hunt Museum, Limerick, Ireland
Arthur Cross:
The Arthur Cross was made to order of Bishop Arthur in 1625 to house a fragment of the True Cross
in its hollow inside, and was signed by the maker Philip Lyles, appears to be a remake of an earlier
cross, perhaps part of the pontificalia of Bishop O’Dea. The Cross was designed to be carried in
procession on ceremonial occasions.
Arthur Chalice :
The Arthur Chalice was made to order of Bishop Arthur in 1625. The Chalice is made with a large
plate gilt and enamelled paten. The enamelled work represents the crucifixion and the soldier
piercing Christ’s side with a lance. Bishop Arthur died on the 23rd May 1646 and is buried in St.
Mary’s cathedral, Limerick.
Mitre and Crosier of Bishop Conor O’Dea Dated 1418
Hunt Museum, Rutland St., Limerick, Ireland
The greatest treasures of the city are the Mitre and Crosier of Conor O’Dea, Bishop
of Limerick from 1400 to 1426, the finest examples of mediaeval post-conquest art in
Ireland. The property of the Roman Catholic Bishop of Limerick, they are the only
mediaeval art treasures remaining in their ancient custody in Ireland. They are also
remarkable in that they are dated, the year of manufacture being 1418, and the Mitre
is signed by the Irish, possibly Limerick craftsman who made them, Thomas
O’Carryd.
The crosier is the only native example of the mediaeval continental form in Ireland.
Of silver gilt, it is 203cm high, and separates into four sections joined by silver
screw heads.
The Mitre is formed of silver-gilt plates, strengthened by beaded borders, fixed to a
leather backing, the outer border in the form of vine tendrils. The font and back are
enriched with jewels of semi-precious stones and pastes. The triangular reserves
decorated with flowers and leaves formed of pearls.
In the Hunt Museum are preserved the Mitre and Crosier of Bishop Cornelius O’Dea,
consecrated Bishop of limerick in 1418. The Mitre, which is the only one extant,
displays exquisite workmanship
Sarsfield Bridge (Built 1835)
Designer / Architect: Alexander Nimmo
Limerick City, Ireland
Sarsfield Bridge is the last bridge that spans the Shannon before its entry into the Atlantic at Loop
Head. Designed by Alexander Nimmo who modelled it on the Pont Neuilly across the Seine in Paris,
it was originally called Wellesley Bridge named after Richard, Marquis of Wellesley (a brother of the
Duke of Wellington), who was Lord Lieutenant of Ireland in 1823 when the Act for the building of the
bridge was passed. The foundation stone was laid in 1824, and it was completed eleven years later
at a cost of £90,000. The Earl of Mulgrave, Lord Lieutenant of Ireland, opened it in 1835 and it was a
toll bride until 1883 when the Corporation changed its name to Sarsfield Bridge. A poor young
Clareman who worked as a timekeeper during its construction is now better known as Eugene
O’Curry, one of the greatest of Ireland’s Celtic scholars.
On either side of the bridge are the headquarters of the Shannon Rowing Club and the Limerick Boat
Club. Upstream is a view of Curragour Falls and Limerick castle, Limerick Court house and the City
hall.
In 1857, a monument was erected on the bridge to commemorate the bravery of Viscount
FitzGibbon, 8th Royal Irish Hussars, and of his gallant companions in arms, natives of the County and
City of Limerick, who gloriously fell in the charge of the Light Brigade in the Crimean war. It was a life
size statue of the gallant FitzGibbon, and stood on a granite pedestal on the front of which was a
bas-relief of the famous cavalry charge at Balaclava in which FitzGibbon fell. This monument was
blown up in 1930 and FitzGibbon, hated as the son of the infamous FitzGibbon, Earl of Clare, who
was instrumental in getting the Act of Union between Ireland and England passed in 1880, was
consigned to a watery grave in the Shannon below. In its place now stand the 1916 memorial
designed by Albert Power and completed by his son. The plinth bears the 1916 proclamation in Irish.
It rests, odd to relate, on the FitzGibbon pedestal with its Balaclava charges.
Name: 1916 Memorial
Sculpture / Designer: Albert Power
Location: Sarsfield Bridge, Limerick City, Ireland
The 1916 memorial on Sarsfield Bridge bears the text in Irish of the proclamation of 1916.
The design shows a woman with a broken chain on her hands symbolising the break with Britain.
The figure at the lower front is Tom Clarke who was married to Kathleen Daly from Limerick.
In 1857, a monument was erected on the bridge to commemorate the bravery of Viscount
FitzGibbon, 8th Royal Irish Hussars, and of his gallant companions in arms, natives of the County and
City of Limerick, who gloriously fell in the charge of the Light Brigade in the Crimean war. It was a life
size statue of the gallant FitzGibbon, and stood on a granite pedestal on the front of which was a
bas-relief of the famous cavalry charge at Balaclava in which FitzGibbon fell. This monument was
blown up in 1930 and FitzGibbon, hated as the son of the infamous FitzGibbon, Earl of Clare, who
was instrumental in getting the Act of Union between Ireland and England passed in 1880, was
consigned to a watery grave in the Shannon below. In its place now stand the 1916 memorial
designed by Albert Power and completed by his son. The plinth bears the 1916 proclamation in Irish.
It rests, odd to relate, on the FitzGibbon pedestal with its Balaclava charges.
Name: Treaty Stone
Sculptor / Designer: J. Corbett
Location: Clancy Strand, Limerick City, Ireland
Limerick City’s most famous monument the Treaty Stone is an irregular block of limestone set on a
pedestal in Clancy Strand in 1865.
Tradition has it that the Treaty of Limerick was signed on the stone itself on 3rd October 1691 within
sight of both armies (King James II and King William II).
The Treaty was negotiated by Sarsfield and Walchope for King James II and Ruvigny and
Scavenmore for King William II
Though the pedestal is on severely simple lines it is supremely suitable for its purpose.
J. Corbett, C.E., and late City Surveyor designed it.
Limerick Castle (King John’s Castle)
Limerick City, Ireland
Limerick Castle (King John’s) was erected some time between the year 1200 - 1210, and it is a
remarkable striking specimen of mediaeval architecture, with towers and curtain walls. It was
intended as a citadel and to dominate the ford or passage, which existed at this point. The wars and
storms of the centuries seem to have done it very little damage, and it is still as sturdy looking as
when first erected. From the Thomond Bridge several patches of brickwork will be noticed in the
Castle walls. These show the extent of the damage done by Ginkel’s guns in the siege of 1691. The
walls of the Castle are ten feet thick.
ADARE MANOR HOTEL & GOLF CLUB
UNIVERSITY CONCERT HALL (PLASSEY)
GEORGIAN LIMERICK (THE CRESCENT)