Huguenots and Quakers

View of Reginald's Tower 15th May 1857.

View of Reginald's Tower 15th May 1857.

© Courtesy of the Irish Architectural Archive

View of Reginald's Tower 15th May 1857.
© Courtesy of the Irish Architectural Archive

View of Reginald's Tower 15th May 1857.

View of Reginald's Tower 15th May 1857.

© Courtesy of the Irish Architectural Archive

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The Hugenots

Huguenot refugees arrived in Waterford towards the end of the seventeenth century. They introduced new skills and trades and set up sail making industries in the City.

Waterford Port in 1770, artist unknown

Waterford Port in 1770, artist unknown

© Waterford City Library

Waterford Port in 1770, artist unknown
© Waterford City Library

Waterford Port in 1770, artist unknown

Waterford Port in 1770, artist unknown

© Waterford City Library

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The Quakers

By 1697 the Quakers decided to settle in Waterford and over the following centuries were prominent entrepreneurs in the city. The Quakers started up many successful businesses such as shipping, wool, and timber – this helped to diversify exports and trade from Waterford into new and profitable areas.

Hunting Meeting next to the river with ships in the background

Hunting Meeting next to the river with ships in the background

© Courtesy of the Irish Architectural Archive

Hunting Meeting next to the river with ships in the background
© Courtesy of the Irish Architectural Archive

Hunting Meeting next to the river with ships in the background

Hunting Meeting next to the river with ships in the background

© Courtesy of the Irish Architectural Archive

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Newfoundland

In the early 1700's, the Corporation decided to demolish the City walls facing the river and use the remains of the wall to widen the Quays and open it up more for commerce.

By the end of the eighteenth century trade with Newfoundland was increasing in importance. Nearly seventy boats sailed over and back from Newfoundland every year with about 5,000 people travelling from Waterford and the adjoining areas. There was a substantial amount of employment in the city, as a direct result of the trade in the Port.

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