Today in History

Irish artist Sarah Purser, who was most well known for her portraits, died on this day in 1843. Some of her finest work such as, "Le Petit Dejeuner" resides in the National Gallery of Ireland. In 1923, Purser became the first female member of the Royal Hibernian Academy. … [Read more...] about August 7, 1843

The composer Arthur Sullivan was born in London to an Irish Italian mother, Mary Coughan and Irish-born father, Thomas Sullivan. Sullivan composed his first anthem at age 8. At age 14, he was awarded a scholarship to the London Academy of Music. Sullivan began a collaboration with W.S. Gilbert to create the comic opera "Thespis." He would work with Giblert on fourteen light … [Read more...] about May 13, 1842

Ireland's first public railroad, the Dublin and Kingstown Railway, was opened on this day in 1834. After founding and laying the first tracks in 1831, a short delay occurred in the building due to opposition from some landowners, the laying of tracks over an embankment, and the creation of the Booterstown Marsh. The first train departed on October 9, consisting of eight cars … [Read more...] about October 9, 1834

On this day in 1832, in Glasnevin, Dublin, the first ever burial took place at Glasnevin Cemetery. Officially named Prospect Cemetery but rarely referred to as such, the cemetery was the first non-denominational burial ground in Ireland. Daniel O'Connell was among the voices that called for a space where anyone could bury their dead. This was especially important for Catholics, … [Read more...] about February 22, 1832

The Dublin Zoo opened on this day in 1830. Then a private society, it was founded by anatomists and physicists, and was financially supported by wealthy subscribers. In 1840, the society began opening its gates to the public on Sundays, for a one penny entrance fee. By this time, the zoo held 72 birds and 46 mammals; all of which had been donated by the London Zoo. Today, the … [Read more...] about September 1, 1830