With great joy and a touch of nostalgia, we revisit the cherished memory of Charles Dickens’ visit to Limerick in the year 1858. As a tribute to this momentous occasion, we are delighted to share with you a letter written by Charles Dickens himself to his nephew, recounting his stay in our beloved city.
ROYAL HOTEL, LIMERICK,
Thursday, Second September 1858.
MY DEAR WILLS :
I purpose being at the office next Tuesday afternoon, before starting again. I hope to be at Tavistock House at noon on Saturday, and to start for Gad’s Hill on Sunday, forenoon. Belfast and Cork, as great successes as Dublin. Fancy, in Cork (by no means a large place) more than 1,000 stalls being engaged for the three readings. I made last week a clear profit, £340, and have made in the month of August, a profit of one Thousand Guineas! This, after paying our expenses back to London, and halfway to Huddersfield. Pretty well, I think?
This is the oddest place of which nobody in any other part of Ireland seems to know anything. Nobody could answer a single question we asked about it. There is no large room, and I read in the Theatre – a charming Theatre. The best I ever saw, to see and hear in. Arthur says that when he opened the doors last night, there was a rush of three Ducks! We expect a Pig to-night. We had only £40, but they seemed to think that, amazing! If the two nights bring £100, it will be as much as we expected. I am bound to say that they are an admirable audience. As hearty and demonstrative as it is possible to be. It is a very odd place in its lower-order aspects, and I am overjoyed we came, though we could have made heaps of money by going to Dublin instead.
Arthur sends you his kindest regard. He has been nearly torn to pieces in the shilling rushes, and has been so flattened against the walls that he is only now beginning to ”come round” again. My kindest remembrance to Mrs. Wills.
Ever cordially, C. D.
In this letter, Mr Dickens reflects on his lodgings at Cruise’s Royal Hotel on George Street, a place that undoubtedly left an impression on the renowned author. The Royal Hotel, known for its regal charm and warm hospitality, provided a comfortable haven for Mr Dickens during his time in Limerick. The Theatre Royal on Henry Street served as the stage for Mr Dickens’ performances, where he brought his literary creations to life.
As we reflect on this significant chapter in Limerick’s cultural history, we invite you to imagine the vibrant atmosphere of the city during Mr Dickens’ visit. His artistic contributions, coupled with the warmth of Limerick’s people, undoubtedly created a tapestry of experiences that enrich our heritage.
We take pride in sharing this historical letter with our community, a testament to the enduring connection between Limerick and the literary giant, Charles Dickens. May this letter serve as a reminder of the cultural richness that has defined our city over the years.
Dublin Daily Express – Friday 01 July 1910
