MY FIRST TIME TO PHOTOGRAPH ATHLUNKARD BRIDGE
MY FIRST TIME TO PHOTOGRAPH ATHLUNKARD BRIDGE [I USED A FUJI GFX100RF]
My First Visit to Athlunkard Bridge
Having photographed all the other bridges in Limerick over the years, Athlunkard Bridge had long been on my list to visit and capture. During a week-long stay at the Absolute Hotel, I awoke on 16th July to truly abysmal weather. After waiting an hour or two in hopes of an improvement, I decided to brave the elements. My Fuji GFX100RF, being both weather-proof and easy to carry, was the perfect companion for the walk to the bridge.
The journey wasn't as long as I'd anticipated, and by the time I reached the River Shannon, the weather had brightened considerably, though the available light remained rather poor. The first thing I noticed upon arrival was a bus stop on the Limerick side of the bridge.
Athlunkard Bridge: A Landmark of Limerick
Athlunkard Bridge, a significant landmark in Limerick, stands as a testament to 19th-century engineering and its vital role in connecting communities and fostering economic growth.
History and Construction
Completed in 1830, Athlunkard Bridge was designed by the renowned Pain Brothers (James and George Richard Pain), who were also responsible for other prominent Limerick bridges like Thomond Bridge and Baal's Bridge. Construction began in 1826 and cost approximately £7,000. It features five granite arches and cut limestone, showcasing the high-quality stone masonry skills of the era. The bridge runs on an east-west axis, connecting Corbally Road in Limerick to County Clare.
Strategic and Infrastructural Importance
Athlunkard Bridge was a crucial development in the post-Napoleonic Wars period when trade in Limerick was reviving. It significantly improved the city's connection with its valuable agricultural hinterland by bringing north and east Clare into Limerick's ambit. It linked the areas of Park and Corbally with the network of streets on King's Island, leading through to Mathew Bridge and on to the Rutland Street-George's Street axis. This made it one of the principal routes within the city and a key thoroughfare to the west of Ireland.
Toll Bridge Era
For many years, Athlunkard Bridge operated as a toll bridge. A toll gate house, which still stands on the city side, collected fees from those crossing. Travellers entering the city from County Clare paid a half-penny, while those with a horse and cart paid one penny. The tolls were finally lifted on 28th April 1884, making the bridge free to cross.
Legacy
Today, Athlunkard Bridge remains a functional crossing and a historical gem. It serves as a county boundary marker between Limerick and Clare and offers scenic views of the River Shannon, particularly at sunrise and sunset. Its enduring presence underscores its strategic importance in the development and connectivity of Limerick and the wider region.
My First Visit to Athlunkard Bridge
Having photographed all the other bridges in Limerick over the years, Athlunkard Bridge had long been on my list to visit and capture. During a week-long stay at the Absolute Hotel, I awoke on 16th July to truly abysmal weather. After waiting an hour or two in hopes of an improvement, I decided to brave the elements. My Fuji GFX100RF, being both weather-proof and easy to carry, was the perfect companion for the walk to the bridge.
The journey wasn't as long as I'd anticipated, and by the time I reached the River Shannon, the weather had brightened considerably, though the available light remained rather poor. The first thing I noticed upon arrival was a bus stop on the Limerick side of the bridge.
Athlunkard Bridge: A Landmark of Limerick
Athlunkard Bridge, a significant landmark in Limerick, stands as a testament to 19th-century engineering and its vital role in connecting communities and fostering economic growth.
History and Construction
Completed in 1830, Athlunkard Bridge was designed by the renowned Pain Brothers (James and George Richard Pain), who were also responsible for other prominent Limerick bridges like Thomond Bridge and Baal's Bridge. Construction began in 1826 and cost approximately £7,000. It features five granite arches and cut limestone, showcasing the high-quality stone masonry skills of the era. The bridge runs on an east-west axis, connecting Corbally Road in Limerick to County Clare.
Strategic and Infrastructural Importance
Athlunkard Bridge was a crucial development in the post-Napoleonic Wars period when trade in Limerick was reviving. It significantly improved the city's connection with its valuable agricultural hinterland by bringing north and east Clare into Limerick's ambit. It linked the areas of Park and Corbally with the network of streets on King's Island, leading through to Mathew Bridge and on to the Rutland Street-George's Street axis. This made it one of the principal routes within the city and a key thoroughfare to the west of Ireland.
Toll Bridge Era
For many years, Athlunkard Bridge operated as a toll bridge. A toll gate house, which still stands on the city side, collected fees from those crossing. Travellers entering the city from County Clare paid a half-penny, while those with a horse and cart paid one penny. The tolls were finally lifted on 28th April 1884, making the bridge free to cross.
Legacy
Today, Athlunkard Bridge remains a functional crossing and a historical gem. It serves as a county boundary marker between Limerick and Clare and offers scenic views of the River Shannon, particularly at sunrise and sunset. Its enduring presence underscores its strategic importance in the development and connectivity of Limerick and the wider region.