Didn’t you know that Foxrock-Carrickmines DED 1986 is more than just a boundary? It is a place steeped in history. Today we will explore the stories that have shaped this area.
Foxrock-Carrickmines DED 1986 itself is a designation from 1986. It refers to a specific district electoral division. To truly understand this place we must delve into the surrounding areas. We’ll uncover tales of literary giants daring aviation feats and significant historical events.
Our journey begins with Samuel Beckett. Born in Foxrock in 1906 Beckett spent his early days here. His family home stood at the junction of Kerrymount Avenue and Brighton Road. Beckett was a regular at Tullow Church on Brighton Road. This church commemorates him with a special plaque. Beckett’s father encouraged outdoor activities. Beckett enjoyed swimming at the Forty Foot. He liked walking in the Dublin Mountains. He also played golf at Carrickmines. These activities shaped his early life. South County Dublin and Foxrock served as inspiration for some of his works. One could say there is indeed a “Beckett Country” for those who seek it.
Leopardstown Racecourse is nearby. It has a rich history in aeronautics. In 1910 the Irish Aero Club held its first air show here. Enormous crowds gathered to witness the spectacle. Captain Bentram Dickson Cecil Grace and J. Armstrong Drexel were among the aviators. Twice during World War II aircraft in difficulty landed at Leopardstown.
Let’s journey to Brighton Road. Here Beatrice Elvery Lady Glenavy lived at “Ellesmere” from 1880 to 1896. She later moved to “Rothbury” on Torquay Road. Her father’s family established Elvery’s sports shops. Beatrice was an accomplished artist. She designed stained glass windows including “The Good Samaritan” in Tullow Church. She also illustrated books such as one for Pádraig Pearse.
The development of Foxrock Estate began in 1859. William and John Bentley purchased lands extending from Brewery Road to Carrickmines Cross Roads. The Royal Insurance Co later acquired the land. This company created the village of Foxrock.
The Harcourt Street Line played a crucial role. It enabled the development of Foxrock. Large houses were built along Torquay Brighton Westminster Roads and Kerrymount Avenue. These roads were designated an Architectural Conservation Area in 2007. You can still view a photographic exhibition about the Harcourt Street Railway Line in Foxrock Village car park. This is the former site of Foxrock Station.
Consider the telephone box in Foxrock village. Erected in 1926 it is the oldest in the country. This K1 Mk 234 model is a listed building. Recently restored it now serves as a mini library for the community.
Foxrock-Carrickmines DED 1986 is a place where history literature and community converge. From Samuel Beckett’s early life to the aviation feats at Leopardstown this area holds a special place in Dublin’s story. As we conclude our tour remember the layers of history beneath our feet. They remind us that every boundary has a story to tell.