“Do you know the Five Lamps? Well go hang your bollocks off them!” This cheeky Dublin saying instantly transports you to a specific spot. Right here before us stands the iconic Five Lamps sculpture.
The Five Lamps isn’t just a pretty lamppost. It’s a Dublin landmark. A cast-iron masterpiece erected around 1880 it commemorates Lieutenant General Henry Hall. He served in India with the Bengal Army. His will provided for a drinking fountain “to encourage sobriety”. The Five Lamps is that fountain.
Notice the four basins at its base. They once held water. Lions’ heads once served as spouts. Metal cups were chained nearby. People could grab a quick drink. This was a crucial amenity. Many homes lacked running water then. The fountain also served as a watering trough for horses.
Why five lamps? Some say it’s because five streets meet here. Others link it to five battles of the Indian Mutiny. A more mundane explanation suggests it was a standard design. The Sun Foundry in Glasgow manufactured it. They also made the fountains in Dún Laoghaire’s People’s Park.
The Five Lamps survived a World War II bombing raid. Three bombs fell nearby. They killed 28 people injuring 90 more. Three hundred houses were destroyed. Miraculously the Five Lamps remained standing.
The Five Lamps continues to inspire. It gives its name to a brewery a New York pub and an arts festival. The Five Lamps Arts Festival happens every April. It showcases local talent. It brings people to the area. It shines a light on this unique piece of Dublin’s history.
So next time you hear that Dublin saying about the Five Lamps you’ll understand. You’ll know exactly where to go. You’ll know its story. You’ll appreciate this enduring symbol of Dublin’s wit resilience and spirit.