The New Training College Mary Immaculate

One of the most significant events in Limerick in recent weeks was the opening of the new Training College Mary Immaculate. This college is designed to equip female teachers throughout Munster with the technical skills they need to teach subjects like cooking and laundry work. The Bishop of Limerick has been a strong advocate for the establishment of such a college, recognizing that the traditional “ologies” were no longer sufficient for preparing teachers for the changing needs of their students. The new college represents a major step forward for education in the region.

Lecture on Music

Another noteworthy event in Limerick was a lecture on music given by the Reverend Father Butler, a Jesuit priest with a deep knowledge of music history. Father Butler combined his erudition on the subject with his considerable skill as a violinist to deliver a fascinating lecture that touched on everything from ancient hymns to modern folk songs. The lecture was held at the Athenaeum and drew a large audience of music lovers.

Ireland’s Needs and Possibilities

On the evening of May 23rd, the Reverend V. V. O.F.M. delivered a lecture on “Ireland’s Needs and Possibilities” at the Athenaeum. The lecture was delivered under the auspices of the city branch of the United Irish League and was presided over by the Mayor of Limerick. The Reverend O.F.M is known for his deep thinking and his ability to articulate useful lessons in practical patriotism, so there was much anticipation for this lecture. Unfortunately, it coincided with the Shannon Rowing Club scratch races, which took place on the same night.

Death of Mrs. Walker-Casey

Tragedy struck the town of Rathkeale as news spread of the death of Mrs. Walker-Casey, the young wife of E Walker-Casey. Mrs. Walker-Casey had been ill for some time, but her death still came as a shock to the community. Her funeral was attended by a large number of mourners, a testament to her popularity and accomplishments. The entire city of Limerick mourned with the family.

The Fire Brigade

In other news, the Special Fire Brigade Committee decided to refer the question of Captain Hayes’s competency to Captain Purcell. This was a commendable move, as it recognized that the matter was best left to experts. The Brigade has not been put to the test in recent months, so there is no better person to judge the competency of its members than one who is himself an expert. Limerick can be proud of the competence of its Fire Brigade, and the Committee’s action shows that it is committed to maintaining that competence.

Creditable Exhibit

The Shannon Foundry put on an interesting exhibit at the Cork Exhibition, showcasing its agricultural implements. This firm is helping to keep jobs in the country that would otherwise be lost to the Channel. The exhibit included root pulpere and slicers, a threshing machine drum, hand pumps, and fan bellows. This kind of local enterprise is a credit to the city and shows that it is not necessary to go elsewhere for well-made machinery.

Whitsuntide Excursions

The Great Southern and Western Railway arranged pleasant excursions for the Whitsuntide holiday, which allowed people to visit destinations like the Cork Exhibition, Lough Derg, and Lahinch at reasonable rates. The fares to Cork were particularly attractive, and many people took advantage of the opportunity to see the Exhibition, which was by this point practically complete.

Limerick Races

Finally, the Limerick Races took place, and despite some poor weather, the attendance was impressive. This event is a much-anticipated one, and many people stake their hopes on the weather being good. This time, however, the opposite was true, and many people found themselves in need of overcoats and umbrellas. Nevertheless, the event went off without a hitch, and there was much excitement about the traditional “throwing of the dart.”

Early Closing Banks

There is a movement afoot in London to ensure that banks close at 1 pm every Saturday, and some people in Limerick are hoping for a similar change. While there is not enough business to warrant all banking activities ending at 1 pm, there is no reason why staff should be sitting idle. If an effort were made, it might be possible to bring about a change in Limerick that would be both sensible and convenient.

Northants Evening Telegraph – Saturday 17 May 1902