“Church on the hill” what does that conjure for you? That’s the meaning of Killinardan. Today we’re exploring this historic estate in Dublin 24. Killinardan’s story stretches way back. Neolithic settlements left their mark nearby. Look toward Mount Pelier. A Tumulus stands as a silent witness. Early Christian settlements also thrived around here. Holy wells at Bohernabreena, Kilnamanagh, and Clondalkin show this past.
Let’s jump forward to medieval times. The bell tower in Tallaght Village is evidence. It was once part of an early Christian church. St. Mary’s Priory is another prime example of this era. It is an excellent example of a Tower house.
In 1653, Archdeacon William Bulkely built Old Bawn House. He was the son of the Archbishop of Dublin. It reportedly cost £3,000. The estate passed through generations of Bulkelys. Richard Bulkely spent most of his time in England. The Hon. William Worth then took over. In the 1700s, the estate changed hands again. Eventually, Mr. Joseph McDonnell acquired it. He built a large paper mill on the land.
Back then, Killinardan was Cill an Ardin. It was a small rural settlement with forestry and farmland. Farming was the main occupation just like in most Irish towns.
The 1900s brought big changes to Killinardan. Ireland’s population grew. The Industrial Revolution created housing demand. In 1976, Dublin Corporation cleared forestry. A major housing development began. The first phase was Knockmore. Next came Killinarden estate itself. Cushlawn, Donomore Park, Donomore Crescent and Killinarden Heights followed.
Amenities were scarce initially. Local children went to primary school. Older students had to travel to St. Marks Community School. There were no community centres or football clubs. But there was a boxing club in Jobstown.
Finally, a community school opened in 1982. A youth club started in 1983. Local residents like Tony Hamilton and Marie Kavanagh founded it. A kind businessman let them use his canteen for meetings. Residents raised money through collections and raffles. They needed to get a grant from the Corporation. Their hard work paid off. The community centre opened in 1988.
Killinarden Community Centre got a makeover in 2002. The Killinarden Community Council manages it. They aim to boost the area’s social and economic well-being. The centre offers youth projects and activities for senior citizens. There’s even a Sister Shed and dancing classes.
Malachi Horan was an interesting Killinardan character. Born in 1847, he lived a rural life. Dr. George A. Little recorded Horan’s memories in a book. It was called “Malachi Horan Remembers”. The book details wakes, evictions, and Fenian activity.
The National Museum of Ireland has a connection to Killinarden. They have sheep brands belonging to Malachi Horan. These brands marked farm animals. It helped prevent theft or confusion.
Killinarden has transformed over time. From a small rural spot, it is now a close-knit suburb. The community spirit remains strong.