Daniel O'Connell's legacy celebrated with one-day Dublin event
To commemorate 250 years since the birth of Daniel O’Connell, Dublin City Council are hosting a one-day symposium on the political leader known as The Liberator.
Together with the Irish Georgian Society and Ulster Architectural Heritage, the Council is celebrating O'Connell's enduring influence on Irish architecture, designed landscapes, and visual culture. Known for leading the campaign for Catholic Emancipation and as Dublin’s Lord Mayor from 1841 to 1842, the event takes place at the City Assembly House on South William Street on Wednesday.
“Daniel O’Connell’s vision of peaceful progress, civic equality, and inclusive democracy remains as vital today as it was 250 years ago. As we mark his legacy here in the City Assembly House — where he himself once spoke so passionately for Ireland’s future — we are reminded that his example continues to inspire how we build a fairer and more vibrant Dublin for all,” Lord Mayor Cllr Ray McAdam said.
While O’Connell is best known for his political achievements, this study day shines a light on his lesser-examined legacy in art, architecture, and material culture. With twelve scholars discussing topics ranging from the O’Connell Memorial Church in Cahirciveen to the design of Glasnevin Cemetery, this event will be a treat for history buffs and culture enthusiasts.
The day will feature four sessions chaired by heritage and cultural leaders, with a keynote address by Dr Patrick Geoghegan, Director of the Trinity Long Room Hub, Trinity College Dublin, titled “King Dan: Ireland’s Human Rights Campaigner and Dublin’s Lord Mayor.”
Other notable speakers include Prof David Fleming (UL), Dr Livia Hurley (UCD), Dr Kathryn Milligan (NCAD), Dr Jaqueline Hayes, Ben Casey, Prof Joseph Brady (UCD), Prof Emeritus Maurice J. Bric (UCD), Brian Crowley (OPW), Victoria McCarthy (Kerry County Council), Dr Niamh NicGhabhann Coleman (UL), and the public historian Donal Fallon.
This event forms part of the Irish Georgian Society’s Conservation Education Programme and is supported by the Department of Culture’s State Commemorations Advisory Committee, the Department of Heritage’s National Built Heritage Service, The Heritage Council, and Ecclesiastical Insurance.
Taking place on Wednesday, 12 November, the symposium runs from 9:15am to 4:40pm. Tickets for ‘Daniel O’Connell 250: Architecture, Designed Landscapes, and Visual Culture A Special Study Day Marking 250 Years Since the Birth of The Liberator’ available on the Irish Georgian Society website: https://www.igs.ie/events/daniel-oconnell-250-architecture-designed-landscapes-and-visual-culture-study-day
This content is funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme