Limerick, a city often immersed in its own melancholy musings, primarily revolving around tramless George’s Street and its celebrated theatre, has a curious way of downplaying its contributions to the industrial world. Inhabitants of Limerick tend to fixate on the vibrant life around College Green, with tramlines converging on the Theatre Royal, a haven that forms the heart and soul of their aspirations. To them, nothing is as covetable as the clangor of the conductor’s bell echoing through the streets, a privilege they believe Cork enjoys. In their self-deprecating humor, they often overlook the substantial role they play in advancing Irish industry.
Tralee, on the other hand, brimming with life and industry for its size, carries three times the pride of Limerick. However, Limerick’s mindset rarely allows room for self-amusement, which might explain the limited development of the city’s recreational pursuits.
Yet, Limerick displays remarkable initiative in fostering Irish industrial development. Having previously organized a successful but modest industrial display, the city has now embarked on a more ambitious endeavour: the Munster-Connacht Exhibition.
The exhibition, though impressive within, faces an unfortunate situation due to its location. Circumstances have kept it hidden from the picturesque vistas of the Shannon, ensconced amidst unimpressive streets, removed from the fashionable district of the city. Moreover, it lacks tramlines to provide shelter from the wind for those arriving from the railway station.
Nonetheless, within the confines of the exhibition, everything is in excellent order. Visitors consistently express astonishment at the diverse range of industries showcased. This collective display debunks the notion of the “one small room” adage and reveals the breadth of Irish craftsmanship.
Bacon, a quintessential Irish product, prominently featured in the exhibition. O’Mara and Shaw, prominent names in the industry, joined the presentation. Another captivating exhibit hailed from Messrs. O’Callaghan, showcasing their leather goods, including a badly flayed hide as a cautionary example of what to avoid.
However, one exhibit carries a poignant and unintentional message. It bears the inscription, “Why we emigrate,” with empty shelves. Regrettably, this often remains the answer for many. Nevertheless, the exhibit is poised to evolve into a collection of object lessons in English and Irish manufacturing.
Limerick’s potential as a competitor to Derry in the realm of shirt production was demonstrated through a display of shirts from St. Ita’s factory. Unfortunately, not all shirt materials can be sourced within Ireland, limiting the variety of fabrics available for soft shirts, especially those suitable for hot weather.
A remarkable display was presented by Miss Kivlehan, featuring small objects made in Ireland. The Longstone Quarry’s exhibit showcased a practical industry, while the Askeaton Carbide Works displayed a modern aspect of Limerick industry.
Numerous exhibits of Limerick-made furniture also graced the exhibition, exemplifying the city’s craftsmanship. Beyond Limerick, the display of Wipsey goods was particularly fascinating, as were the stained glass works of Messrs. Watson and Co.
A working loom used for hand-tufted work was demonstrated in the Dun Emer exhibit, revealing the intricacies of this craft. Lace from various regions, the products of Dun Emer, and delicate metalworks from Longford added to the exhibition’s appeal.
Artistic handicrafts were well-represented by a diverse range of lace items, baskets, gloves, brushes, and sweet treats, highlighting the rich tapestry of Irish craftsmanship.
The exhibit outside the model cottage, intended for newlyweds, offered insights into setting up housekeeping for approximately £120, emphasizing cleanliness without draftiness—a unique combination. Nearby, a village shop drew patrons with rush-bottomed chairs.
Some dissonant notes emerged, including displays of English gas engines and models of English-built steamers, seemingly out of place in an Irish exhibition. Additionally, a model of Fownes’ English-made gloves raised questions about the status of glove manufacturing in Ireland.
Despite these anomalies, the exhibition offered a rich tapestry of Irish industry, reflecting a need for an increase in the number of factories specializing in successful industries. Under existing conditions, nearly all industries are economically viable, making them desirable pursuits. It is a matter of prudent enterprise, advertisement, and Irish consumer goodwill to significantly expand industries that are already achieving partial success.
In essence, the exhibition demonstrates that the channel for growth exists, and it merely requires further development to expand the commerce it carries. Much like a metaphorical river that needs dredging, Limerick awaits the enterprising individuals who will provide the means for this expansion.
Dublin Leader – Saturday 21 July 1906
