The city of Limerick is currently abuzz with excitement following the official opening of the Exhibition. Although the citizens are turning out in their dozens, the true spectacle is yet to be seen, as the masses are yet to descend upon the event, reserving their presence for a national demonstration.
The Exhibition’s organizing committee seems to have taken a deliberate approach to maintain an air of exclusivity, a decision that has garnered my full approval. Presently, it is a tranquil affair, allowing one to leisurely stroll the grounds with a companion, whether that be your best girl or a quiet moment amidst the flowery walks. The serene atmosphere allows for a touch of sentimentality to take root under the influence of the distant hurdy-gurdy music.
This serenity is a pleasure one can seldom enjoy amidst a throng of people, where the charms of a quiet stroll or a moment of reflection are easily lost. Furthermore, after bidding farewell to your dear companion, the challenge of elbowing your way through a packed crowd to reach the bar counter for a final refreshment can be quite distressing. Thus, I must admit my fondness for the Exhibition’s current state – a quiet and dignified affair.
A report in the Munster News sheds light on an interesting development within the Limerick Society of Quarrymen. According to the report, Mrs. J. F. Barry proposed, seconded by Mr John Slattery, that Mrs. M. Costley of Boherbuoy be selected as a candidate to represent the Glentworth Ward. This intriguing turn of events suggests that the Quarrymen Society has found an unexpected source of potential members. While Mr Slattery has indeed encountered Alderman Daly more than once and has worked his quarry well, I would never accuse Mr Barry of being as hard as a “stone” in his judicial role. In fact, he has shown leniency on numerous occasions, effectively allowing many offenders to land on “wool,” so to speak.
In a contrasting story, a member of the Newcastle West Board of Guardians expressed opposition to adopting the Local Government Inspector’s recommendation to provide tepid water baths. This guardian argued that such facilities would make the workhouse more attractive to casual labourers. However, I must respectfully disagree with this sentiment. It has always been my understanding that the guardians’ aim was to make life as uncomfortable as possible for the tramp guests. In Newcastle, though, it appears the guardians prefer the traditional approach of detaining weary travelers in the prison. It is worth noting that some casual labourers have recently been given one-month sentences. Thus, the prospect of finding themselves behind bars must have crossed the minds of these itinerant workers, as the prison door slammed shut.
On a more eccentric note, a certain Mr Jewell in England had a rather peculiar notion. He became convinced that a parrot in a neighboring garden was “the devil shrieking amongst good people.” In a truly unconventional response, he decided to consume spirits of salts. I dare say, it is unlikely that the parrot in George Street, Limerick, is responsible for anything quite as dramatic. Of course, it should be clarified that this statement is not a reflection on the good people of George Street. However, the parrot in question may fit the description of what is often referred to as a “whistling pew boy.”
In conclusion, Limerick remains in a state of quiet excitement as the Exhibition unfolds. It remains a calm and dignified affair, where visitors can enjoy leisurely strolls and moments of reflection, far from the maddening crowds. Meanwhile, intriguing developments within the Quarrymen Society and the quirky parrot tale offer a glimpse into the city’s multifaceted charm and character.
Limerick Echo – Tuesday 17 July 1906
