The Town Park
The Town Park with its Victorian Bandstand overlooks Dungarvan Bay, boasting the finest views of harbour.
In September of 1894 the Town Commissioners called a meeting to discuss acquiring land to 'establish and maintain a Public park' for the use and
enjoyment of the people of Dungarvan.
The Town Commissioners agreed six to nineteen acres of land would be a goodly size for the Park.
Captain William Gibbons of Church Street died in December of 1894 at the age of 65, bequeathing 1750pounds to the people of Dungarvan for the creation of a park and improvements to the Lookout.
A small archway was erected as the entrance to the park. It had an inscribed plaque with decorative limestone surrounds. A dispute arose about the inscription on the plaque. Mrs. Gibbons, found the inscription on the tablet objectionable. She asked that the plaque on the arch be removed or she would take legal action. She took issue with the fact that the inscription included the name of the executor of the late Captain Gibbon's will and his beneficiaries.
In 1897 the Commissioners decided to go ahead with the construction of the band stand. Tenders were sent out for an octagon shaped metal bandstand with an iron roof and no ceiling.The band committee picked the colours for the bandstand. The Spire - gold.; Roof - light green; Floating - white; Columns - bronze; Railings - light green; Cantilever - white.
Glass lanterns were also purchased for the bandstand, the globes can be seen in the above photo.
The Gate at the Park entrance was and still is a great favorite with local children. I don't think I know anyone who hasn't taken a spin. All who indulged in this entertainment recall with nostalgia the squeal and the swish the turnstile made.