In collaboration with the Irish Railway Record Society, TDLR embarks on an exploration of Dublin's rail history.
Dive into Dublin's enchanting past as you board the Har-Stone Explorer, a gripping tribute to the Harcourt Street and Broadstone railways. Now crucial components of the modern Luas Green Line, these predecessors took center stage in this unforgettable tour.
Led by Dave Rooney, Director of Operations at Transdev, and steered by the steady hand of Kevin Kavanagh, this journey was packed with insights from various experts, including Eddie Byrne, the trailblazing first driver of the Luas. Lorraine Anderson, Deirdre Miller (TII) and more shared their knowledge, making this tour a true feast for history enthusiasts.
One of its most adrenaline-pumping moments was at Broombridge, where participants were treated to a close encounter with The Midlander, a ferocious steam train roaring past, courtesy of the Railway Preservation Society of Ireland.
As the steam settled, a poignant chapter unfolded — the tale of the Grangegorman archaeological excavation. Uncovered during Luas Cross City works in 2015, the remains of 1,617 individuals, tragic victims of the 1832 cholera epidemic, were unveiled.
The tour continued with a stop at Marlborough Street, once home to the Dublin United Tramways Company (DUTC). An unexpected detour at Beechwood Stop added a dollop of excitement before coming to a halt at the currently closed Brennanstown Stop.
The adventure culminated at Laughanstown, home to an ancient Neolithic dolmen, a relic hailing from 2500–2000 BC. Close by, the Tully High Cross and the burgeoning Cherrywood community showcased the captivating blend of Ireland's prehistoric past and modern urban planning.
This magical event was a testament to Dublin's evolving transport evolution. Kudos go to the organizers, a team including TDLR, IRRS, and dedicated individuals like Mark Merrigan, Stephen King, and Neil Dinnen. It was a day where the past and present coalesced, offering a deepened appreciation of the incredible journey that brought us here.
Remember, if you're eager to learn more about this enthralling transport history adventure in Dublin, be sure to check out official websites of tourism organizations, transport museums, or the Irish Railway Record Society (IRRS). Keep an eye open for updates from these organizations for the latest and most accurate information. Enjoy your journey through time! 🚂🕰️🏙️
The Har-Stone Explorer tour, guided by Dave Rooney and Kevin Kavanagh, shed light on Dublin's transport history, delving into the era of the Luas Green Line's railway predecessors - the Harcourt Street and Broadstone railways. Amidst the tour's highlights was a thrilling encounter with a steam train from the Railway Preservation Society of Ireland, heightening the adrenaline during the tour.
This enthralling journey revealed significant points such as the Grangegorman archaeological excavation, which uncovered the tragic remains of 1,617 cholera epidemic victims, and the ancient Neolithic dolmen at Laughanstown, dating back to 2500–2000 BC. The tour's organizers, including TDLR, IRRS, and other dedicated individuals, are behind this collaboration that beautifully showcases Dublin's transport evolution and urban planning.
