Victorian Dublin Revealed

During the 63 years of Victoria’s reign, Dublin was a simmering cauldron of religious and political tensions. The city developed into a curious mixture of impoverished central areas and comfortable middle-class leafy suburbs. This era spanned the peak of the industrial revolution and the rise of the railway and steamship. During that time, the city’s shape and the pattern of life changed enormously. This is Dublin as you have never seen it. The surprising wealth of Victorian buildings throughout the city, including those hidden from the public gaze, is revealed here. Skilfully interwoven with these illustrations is the story of that important many-faceted era, being the formative years in which were created the foundations of the modern city. Written in a highly readable style, this entertaining book is essential for those who wish to explore the intriguing history and heritage of Victorian Dublin.

During Queen Victoria’s reign, in the years between 1837 and 1901, Dublin experienced great change. It slipped from its position as second city of the Empire, while at the same time it developed as Ireland’s administrative and commercial centre. The advent of the railway and steam-ship resulted in Dublin becoming Ireland’s transport hub. However, improved cross-channel communications resulted in stiff competition for Dublin’s industries. Catholic Emancipation, coupled with a rise in nationalism, had a unique effect on Dublin’s growth. Suburbs developed around the city, catering for the needs of the mainly Protestant middle class, which fled the declining city centre. Catholicism proclaimed itself through the construction of assertive new churches in prominent locations. Many Dubliners live and work in Victorian buildings of which there is a stunning range throughout the city. In this absorbing new book, Michael Barry has captured the essence of Victorian Dublin: its houses, churches, schools, railways and public buildings. Included in the wealth of photographs are several that show Victorian buildings extant some decades ago, but now no longer there. The Victorian era in Dublin has not been fully appreciated or understood. Now the story of this remarkable time is revealed in a clear and accessible style. This book is essential for all who are interested in this absorbing part of Ireland’s history and heritage.

Author and historian Michael B. Barry was born in Ireland and has worked on transportation projects both in Ireland and around the world. With a strong interest in history and heritage, Michael has written several books including ‘Homage to al-Andalus’ and ‘The Green Divide, An Illustrated History of the Irish Civil War’. An accomplished photographer, he has contributed to journals and has appeared on radio and television. He lives in Dublin.