In an effort to bolster the financial health of Barrington’s Hospital, Limerick’s esteemed Theatre Royal is set to host an intricately organized ball on the 16th of this month. The hospital, renowned for its comprehensive care of various ailments and its unique role in handling accidents, stands as a vital institution in the city. The upcoming soirée is anticipated not only to be a splendid affair in terms of merriment but also as a substantial contributor to the hospital’s funding.

With casualties aplenty from the bustling docks to maritime activities, Barrington’s Hospital plays a crucial role in attending to the diverse medical needs of the community. Unfortunately, the hospital’s financial reservoirs have dwindled, and its subscription list remains modest. The absence of substantial fundraising events has exacerbated this situation. The imminent ball is thus eagerly awaited as a beacon of hope to replenish the hospital’s coffers and sustain its invaluable services.

The organizing committee, spearheaded by individuals such as Hon. Mrs. Hiring, Hon. Y6e Butler-Massy, Mrs. Courtney Coker, Mrs. A. White, and Mrs. Burnell, has meticulously planned every detail of the event. The venue will be transformed with a special dance floor, adorned with an enchanting array of bamboos, ivy trails, and daffodils. The ceiling, adorned with flags, promises to be a visual spectacle for attendees.

Decoration responsibilities have been shouldered by a group of dedicated ladies, while friends of the Hospital are generously contributing to the supper, which will be served at intimate tables on the grand stage. Mrs. O’Brien, hailing from South Hill, assumes the role of president for the event, with Lady Nash and Mrs. Tidmarsh serving as honourary secretaries for the supper committee. The main secretaries for the ball are Mrs. J. B. Barrington, Mr Ellis Goodbody, and Mr J. F. Power.

Eminent personalities from the social strata of Limerick and beyond have shown their support by purchasing tickets for the ball. Among them are the Countess of Limerick, the Countess of Dunraven, the Mayor and Mayoress of Limerick, the High-Sheriffs of the City and County, Lady Clarina and her daughters, Hon. Mrs. Vansittart and Miss Vansittart, Mr and Hon. Mrs. Baring, Sir Charles and Lady Barrington, Sir Alexander and Lady Shaw, Sir V. and Lady Nash, Mr and Mrs. Peter Fitzgerald, Mr and Miss Barrington, Mr and Mrs. J.

In a noteworthy turn of events, the conclusion of the present hunting season witnessed a remarkable display of equestrian prowess. During a spirited run with the Ward Hounds, two daring ladies, Miss Hone and Mrs. Higgins, gallantly held their own, with only a handful of gentlemen managing to keep pace. Their remarkable horsemanship harks back to an era when a quartet of distinguished ladies, Lady McCalmont, Mrs. Dewhurst, Mrs. Barry, and the late Mrs. Lindsay Fitzpatrick. They were a regular sight at the close of every exhilarating day’s of sport with the Wards.

Adding to the joyous spirit, the announcement of the engagement between Mr Harry de Courcy Bennett, scion of Major George Bennett of The Grange, Birr, and Miss Gladys Margaret Caldwell. She was the daughter of Mr J. H. Caldwell of Newtown House, Tetbury, Gloucestershire. This brings an extra layer of celebration to this upcoming social extravaganza.

As the community eagerly anticipates the grand affair at the Theatre Royal, there is a collective hope that this charitable ball will provide a night of enchantment and serve as a vital lifeline for Barrington’s Hospital. It will ensure it continues its noble mission of providing healthcare and support to those in need.

Lady of the House – Tuesday 15 March 1910