“Pasture of the boars” is the old Irish meaning of Clonturk. Today we explore Clonturk Parish, an area steeped in history north of the River Tolka.
Clonturk was once an alternative name for Drumcondra. The parish is part of the barony of Coolock. Evidence suggests the name was originally Ceann Torc, meaning headland of the boars. It changed to Clonturk by the mid-16th century, possibly influenced by nearby Clontarf.
The name Clonturk lives on through Clonturk House on Ormond Road. The City Architect built it in 1830 as a gentleman’s residence. It received a Georgian frontage during extensive renovations in 1880.
From then until 1960, the Presbyterian Church ran Clonturk House. It accommodated girls attending school in Dublin. Some were fee-paying, and others were subsidised. The Rosminians order ran it as a home for blind men until 2009.
Interestingly, the balustrade now forming its boundary came from the original Carlisle Bridge. It was moved here when the current O’Connell Bridge replaced the old one.
You’ll notice neighbouring streets bear the name Clonturk. Clonturk Park, Clonturk Gardens, and Clonturk Avenue are examples. Clonturk Community College is further north on the Swords Road at Whitehall.
Clonturk Park, off Richmond Road, is home to Drumcondra F.C. The All-Ireland Senior Football Championship finals of 1890, 1891, and 1892 took place here. Also the All-Ireland Senior Hurling Championship finals of 1890, 1891, 1892, and 1894 were held here. Since 1913, Croke Park has hosted these matches.
Clonturk House’s imposing facade features rusticated granite. It contrasts with the rendered walls, showcasing classical design influences. The entrance bay’s granite doorcase exudes grandeur. Dating to the early 19th century, Clonturk House is among Drumcondra’s older houses.
An attempt was once made to develop the house and grounds into pleasure grounds rivalling Vauxhall in London. From 1955 to 2009, the Rosminian Order operated it as a school for the blind. Thomas Dudley, known as Bang Bang, was cared for here by the Rosminians. His burial place in St. Joseph’s Cemetery is marked with a plaque.
Today, Clonturk Parish offers a glimpse into Dublin’s past. Its blend of residential areas, historical landmarks, and community spaces creates a unique character. The echoes of boars and bygone eras linger in the air.