In a recent gathering of the Limerick Board, a letter from the military authorities regarding an aged cannon stirred both amusement and deliberation among the councillors. The correspondence highlighted that the relic, currently resting on the Board’s property, forms an integral part of the premises housing the Militia Staff Barracks.

Councillor T. H. (the Mayor) presided over the meeting, where the missive was brought to attention. The missive revealed an application from an undisclosed entity within the military, expressing interest in acquiring the historical cannon for potential deployment at the barracks.

Amidst the ensuing banter, Mr Roche contributed a touch of levity, suggesting that there might have been a request from Ireland itself for the venerable artillery. With a jesting tone, he added that the Irish would know how to handle such artillery, prompting laughter from the assembly.

Responding to Alderman Joyce, MP.., the Mayor quipped, “Guns are booming,” subtly acknowledging the interest in the old cannon. However, he was quick to clarify that the application, in reality, came from a different quarter. It appears that the allure of historical weaponry has not waned, prompting various factions to express interest in the venerable piece.

During the discussion, Mr Twyford, a marine enthusiast, pointed out the historical significance of such cannons and recommended that a more deliberate course of action should be taken. With the potential historical value at play, it became evident that the decision regarding the cannon would not be a mere formality.

The Mayor, acknowledging the dual nature of the discussion—combining historical curiosity with a touch of humour—facilitated a measured dialogue. The fate of the old cannon, situated at the confluence of history and contemporary interest, now rests in the hands of the Limerick Board.

The historical cannon, a silent witness to bygone eras, has become a focal point of deliberation within the civic quarters of Limerick. As debates unfold, whether to part with this emblem of the past or preserve it as a testament to history has sparked considerable interest among the locals.

In response to the military’s overture, a peculiar suggestion emerged from the floor—that the cannon could be entrusted to the hands of the Irish themselves. Mr Roche’s jesting proposal added a touch of whimsy to the proceedings, hinting at the idea that the Irish, with their rich history, could find a creative and entertaining use for the old artillery.

However, beyond the jests and banter, there lies a genuine interest in the historical significance of the cannon. Alderman Joyce, MP.., echoed this sentiment, acknowledging that the application for the old guns had stirred curiosity not only within the military circles but also among the broader public.

The Mayor’s wry acknowledgment of the booming interest in the cannon hinted at the broader context of historical preservation. In an era where relics from the past are increasingly valued, the debate transcends mere military applications. The old cannon, with its weathered exterior and tales of bygone battles, stands as a symbol of Limerick’s enduring history.

Mr Twyford’s intervention added a maritime perspective to the discussion. As a marine enthusiast, he underscored the importance of preserving such artefacts, highlighting their role in maritime history. The call for a more considered approach resonated with those present, indicating that the fate of the cannon was not a decision to be taken lightly.

As discussions unfolded, it became evident that the Limerick Board found itself at a crossroads, torn between the potential practical applications of the cannon and the cultural significance it holds. The decision, when made, will echo through the annals of Limerick’s history, shaping the narrative of how the city values and preserves its heritage.

In the heart of Limerick, where the past converges with the present, an old cannon has become a focal point of civic discourse. The debates within the hallowed chambers of the Limerick Board reflect not only the whimsy of a humorous proposal, but also the earnest consideration of the historical legacy encapsulated by this weathered piece of artillery. As the deliberations continue, the old Limerick cannon remains an enigmatic figure, awaiting its destiny in the hands of those entrusted with shaping the city’s narrative.

Weekly Freeman’s Journal – Saturday 07 January 1911