Since starting this, I have learnt of very many people who, to then, were unknown to me but when prompted to do some research I have learnt much of the likes of Eliza Lynch, Ellen Organ, Annie Moore and Agnes Mary Clarke.
Recently, I spotted this art installation to famous Limerick women. I was hooked as an art installation and also a record of famous people. The series of articles prompted me to expedite the research of those named – a number of whom I had not heard previously.
Today’s update from Stair na hEireann noted that Kathleen Daly Clarke was born on this day in Limerick – another prompt.
I would have thought that she might have warranted inclusion on the art installation.
Catherine Hayes was born into ‘abject poverty’ who received funding from Limerick dignitaries to train as an opera singer. She sang soprano at La Scala and Covent Garden. Her former home in Patrick Street, Limerick has a plaque where she is called ‘The Swan of Erin’. | Kate O’Brien was a writer and playwright. One of ten children, she received a scholarship to U.C.D. in 1916. Her 1936 novel, Mary Lavelle was banned in Ireland and Spain, where she supported the Republican side in the Civil War and was banned from the country. She was critical of the conservative Ireland of the time. |
Lola Montez was the stage name of Maria Delores Eliza Rosanna Gilbert, grand-daughter of High Sheriff of Cork. She was a ‘Spanish dancer’ famed for her ‘Spider Dance’; actress; and, mistress of the King of Bavaria, among others. She may or may not have been born in Limerick but definitely lived a life. | Delores O’Riordan was/is the lead singer of The Cranberries, and was a judge on Voice of Ireland. Maria Byrne was the 814th Mayor of Limerick, the fourth woman to hold the office. |