A big thank you to Bill Leahy, Richmond, for sharing this fantastic photograph of the west end of Templemore’s town square. While the buildings have remained largely unchanged, the image offers a fascinating link to the past – including a cycling race that took place in August 1906, as reported in the Tipperary Star.
A Cycle Race with a Dramatic Twist 🚴♂️
In 1906, Templemore Cycle Club held its races on the streets of the town. Mr. Morris, a local chemist, offered a gold watch to the best rider of an eight-mile race. Seven competitors lined up for the challenge, but disaster struck at the corner near the Sacred Heart Church, known at the time as the “new Chapel.”
📜 Tipperary Star – August 1906:
“When turning the corner at the new Chapel, five of the cyclists came to grief, some sustaining nasty cuts and bruises. This made the win very easy for Mr. O’Brien of Castleiney, who won by over forty yards. Mr. Edward Kirwan of Nenagh took second place, while Con Armitage of Templemore finished third. About three yards separated the two. Other races were planned, but due to the accident, they were canceled.”
The Chemist & Its Historic Location
The entrance to Morris Chemist, mentioned in the article, was located on Patrick Street, where O’Doherty’s Showrooms now stand. Historical records from Griffith’s Valuation House Book (1846) indicate that the building was already 60 years old at the time, meaning it dates back to approximately 1786.
Interestingly, the Sacred Heart Church, which opened in 1883, was still referred to as the “new Chapel” in 1906 – despite being in use for 23 years at that point!
This story is a perfect example of how photographs and historical snippets bring the past to life. Every old picture tells a thousand stories, and we look forward to uncovering more Templemore memories in the future!
📷 Do you recognize any other historic spots in this image? Share your memories at Tuatha Corca Teine!
