Dalkey, is
a compact town with a great deal of history and charactor. It was
designated a Heritage
Town in 1994. Timmy Ryan, an esteemed
local, tells a story regarding his Grandfather
Joe Ryan, who
came to live in Dalkey age two. In the town, man
and boy for a mere 68
years,
Joe
could
be found with old pals on fine days, swapping
yarns, sitting in the sun
on the bench by Webster’s Corner as it was
then known. (This same sunny bench can be found
in front
of the double
hoardings down the
end of town). One day a heated discussion on Dalkey
matters arose, Joe offered his opinion and was
immediately told to shut up,
after
all what
did he know wasn't he only a blow in.
Since
1787, with the odd break here and there, Dalkey had
an elected King. A sight to behold in
his
magnificent cloak and crown, Finbarr, the present
reigning King of Dalkey, presides over most major
celebrations.
We suppose it was economic progress that forced
the emigration of many Bulloch families on the
long trek up the hill to the Kingdom of Dalkey.
They have never
forgotten their roots. Read Susan
Homan's account of
her
childhood and Donal Smyth's continuing research of Bulloch.
Ardbrugh village with the quarries and families from the "big
houses" hold
many another pages of local history. Each and every residential
area has a story to tell and we must not forget our parks
and coastline.
Arriving from the Dun Laoghaire direction into, the aptly
named Castle St., you will find Archbold's Castle to
the right
and Goat Castle-our
Town Hall and Heritage Centre to the left, facing the
Church of the Assumption and the Church car park. Either
on or within a few
paces of Castle Street
you will find a mere 6 pubs all serving food. A further
dozen or so restaurants to whet your appetite, a library,
an internet cafe,
banks,
shops and businesses
of every conceivable type and variety, schools, doctor's surgery
and a health
centre. The DART (Dublin
Area Rapid Transport) is situated a 3 minute walk down
Castle St., and on up Railway Road. Much of the above
are featured on our
virtual tours.
It was said by many living beyond the boundaries of our town that
those of us living in the Kingdom of Dalkey think we need a visa
to leave, as so few if any,
ever want to move away. Well one thing is sure you don't
need a visa to visit, and Dalkey Community Council extends a thousand
welcomes to you. We hope you
enjoy this sample of past and present life in our town.
Like the vibrant town it is, it continues to grow and change as
reflected here on DalkeyHomePage. Visitors a cautionary note, as
you stroll around, do not be reckless and mention the term “village” with
regard to Dalkey. You will be told, in no uncertain manner,
that Dalkey is a town, by the grace of God, always was
and will continue
to be.
