In a heartfelt letter, Mr Lawlor, the designer of the statue in St. John’s Cathedral, expressed his concern regarding the forgotten and unhonoured state of Gerald Griffin, a renowned Irish writer. He specifically addressed Mr Ambrose Hall, J.P., emphasizing the need to rectify this oversight.

Mr Lawlor drew attention to the Christian Brothers of North Monastery in Cork, who have long acknowledged and celebrated the contributions of Gerald Griffin. However, he lamented that in Limerick, where Griffin’s centenary was celebrated with great enthusiasm just last year, the fervour and appreciation for the poet seemed to have waned quickly. The initial excitement and promises to build schools and erect statues had dissipated, leaving Griffin’s memory unacknowledged and his legacy fading into obscurity.

Mr Lawlor acknowledged the existence of a General Griffin Centenary Committee formed to perpetuate the memory of the poet, but expressed disappointment in the lack of substantial support and contributions received. While some individuals made contributions, the overall response fell short of expectations, leaving the project in a state of disillusionment.

The letter concluded with a sombre reflection on the perpetually forgotten state of Limerick’s own literary hero. Mr Lawlor mourned the fact that despite initial bursts of enthusiasm, the citizens of Limerick seemed to have moved on, leaving Gerald Griffin’s memory to languish. He questioned whether this would always be the fate of Limerick’s celebrated figures, and appealed to his fellow citizens to recognize and honour the legacy of their beloved poet.

The plea serves as a reminder that cultural figures, like Gerald Griffin, deserve to be remembered and celebrated long after the initial excitement fades. It calls for a renewed commitment to preserving the heritage of Limerick’s literary heroes and ensuring that their contributions are properly acknowledged and honoured.

Dublin Evening Telegraph – Saturday 30 July 1904