Ever wonder how Rathmines gained its unique character? Picture this: Rathmines and Rathgar Township in the mid-19th century. It was a time of significant change. The story of Rathmines and Rathgar Township 1866-1880 is one of growth and transformation.
In 1847, the Rathmines Township was established by an Act of Parliament. This was a pivotal moment. Then in 1862, Rathgar and Sallymount became part of the renamed Rathmines and Rathgar Township. Sallymount comprised present-day Ranelagh. The township expanded further in 1866, incorporating townlands in Uppercross. Milltown joined in 1880. Rathmines and Rathgar Township was taking shape.
Initially, the township focused on sanitation. However, its responsibilities grew. It took on public lighting, water supply, and drainage. Drainage was a joint effort with Pembroke Township. The Rathmines and Rathgar Township was becoming self-sufficient.
Local businessmen governed the township as commissioners. Over time, the council evolved. The Local Government Act of 1898 created the Rathmines and Rathgar Urban District Council. This council built housing for the working class.
Rathmines Town Hall stands as a reminder of this era. Its clock tower is famous. Locals call it the Four Faced Liar. Each face often shows a different time. The clock was made by Chancellor and Son. They claimed to be better than English and Scottish companies.
The Town Hall was a hub of activity. It housed a boardroom. The town commissioners met there. There was a gymnasium and a supper room. People rented the supper room. The assembly hall could fit 2,000 people. It had a stage and an orchestra. Concerts and dances filled the hall. Percy French performed there. Edison’s early films were shown.
The first Rathmines public library opened in 1887. It moved locations before settling at 157 Lower Rathmines Road. Andrew Carnegie provided funds for the library. Batchelor and Hicks designed it. The library’s facade matched the Town Hall’s style. A stained-glass window depicted literature.
In 1930, Rathmines and Rathgar became part of Dublin City. Dublin Corporation took over the township’s functions. The Rathmines College of Further Education now occupies the Town Hall. The legacy of the Rathmines and Rathgar Township 1866-1880 lives on. Its development shaped the Rathmines we know today.