A week ago, the city of Limerick was abuzz with fears of an impending water tank—or, more accurately, a water tank-famine. These dire predictions, coupled with my overactive imagination, gave rise to some peculiar dreams. In one such dream, I envisaged not one, but three famines hitting Limerick—the lack of water, whiskey, and milk! I couldn’t help but ponder how publicans and dairymen would cope with such a dry spell. The humorous thought crossed my mind that perhaps the publican would water his whiskey, and the dairyman might unintentionally add water to his milk. This sparked a fun challenge: if the water supply were cut off, what would be the size of a half of whiskey? I invited answers and promised a prize for the most creative response.
As we approach the end of the month, the entire Limerick population seems to be flocking to Kilkee, eagerly anticipating the seaside experience. This is the time when some individuals get carried away with revelry, engaging in their “beanos.” Among them, the so-called “bounder,” strutting around in his flashy attire, attracts much attention. He thinks he’s a “willioonaire” with his duck pants and yellow band, making the natives gaze in wonderment at his grandiosity.
Kilkee offers a delightful array of amusements during the month. However, some find the combination of fresh air and food rather soporific. One person famously claimed to have experienced a “pap” (nap) on their last visit here. It seems they had a bit too much “wutton” (mutton) but not from the sea!
Observing nursery maids teaching children how to build sandcastles on the beach makes for a picturesque sight. However, it might evoke bittersweet memories for some, perhaps stirring up thoughts of past loves and lost opportunities.
For those who don’t indulge in romantic reveries, a visit to the Pollock Holes is an exhilarating experience. Scaling these rocks can be treacherous, prompting thoughts of life-saving ropes used in mountain climbing elsewhere. Perhaps someone should introduce such a safety measure here!
The Kilkee season gives rise to amusing stories, entertaining friends and acquaintances upon their return to Limerick. One tale involves a model young man, fond of ginger beer, who claimed to have performed electrical experiments with Leyden’s Jars. It took his uncle, aware of his scientific enthusiasm, to believe the imaginative tale.
Another anecdote involves a cheeky question asked by a friend visiting Kilkee: “How does George’s Head look in the morning?” The response was equally sharp, suggesting she ask George himself!
Lastly, an amusing tale revolves around two Limerick visitors preparing a delectable dish of ducks for their male friends who failed to arrive as expected. Feeling disappointed and frustrated, they took the ducks for a spin on their bikes and might have encountered a flirty exchange with some Kilkee colleens in the process!
Kilkee continues to be a hub of merriment, laughter, and good times. With each passing day, it lives up to its reputation as a beloved seaside destination for Limerick locals.
Limerick Echo – Tuesday 08 August 1905
