The River Shannon
The River Shannon is the longest river in Ireland and the UK combined. Its role in the development of Limerick city and county has been significant throughout history. This image shows the river on a December morning looking towards Thomond Bridge and King John's Castle.
© Limerick Studies Collection.The River Shannon
© Limerick Studies Collection.
© Limerick Studies Collection.
The River Shannon
The River Shannon is the longest river in Ireland and the UK combined. Its role in the development of Limerick city and county has been significant throughout history. This image shows the river on a December morning looking towards Thomond Bridge and King John's Castle.
© Limerick Studies Collection.The Shannon Estuary has historically made Limerick city an idea centre for trading. This is also true of several surrounding towns, such as Foynes.
The river has an abundant supply of fishing. Links from Foynes to Killaloe allows for transport and trade over a wide area. In the 1920s, the power of the Shannon was harnessed at Ardnacrusha
to provide electricity through the Shannon Hydro-Electric Scheme.
The river has an abundant supply of fishing. Links from Foynes to Killaloe allows for transport and trade over a wide area. In the 1920s, the power of the Shannon was harnessed at Ardnacrusha
Ardnacrusha Power Station and Canal
Photo of the Shannon Hydro-Electric Scheme in the 1920s. A view of the power station and canal at Ardnacrusha on completion.
By permission of Clare County Library.
Limerick Harbour
This view of Limerick Harbour was taken in 1877, looking towards the city centre. The landmark Docks Clock is still standing on this site, but the area behind has changed dramatically with the building of the third river crossing at Shannon Bridge.
© T. O'Connor, Limerick.Limerick Harbour
© T. O'Connor, Limerick.
© T. O'Connor, Limerick.
Limerick Harbour
This view of Limerick Harbour was taken in 1877, looking towards the city centre. The landmark Docks Clock is still standing on this site, but the area behind has changed dramatically with the building of the third river crossing at Shannon Bridge.
© T. O'Connor, Limerick.As well as giving its riches to the people of Limerick, the River Shannon has given its name to an entire region. The Shannon Region, in Ireland's Mid-West, comprises the whole of counties Clare and Limerick, South Offaly, North Kerry and North Tipperary. Limerick city is the capital of the region. Recognition of the importance of the river can be seen in the form of new buildings along its banks, guaranteeing the River Shannon's importance in Limerick life for many years to come.