Boxing Stadium

Boxing Stadium

The site of Griffith College in Dublin was originally occupied by Grimwood Nurseries, then by the Richmond Bridewell from 1813 to 1877. The prison, costing £40,000 to build, was described in 1837 as a large, walled structure with two quadrangles, used for holding minor offenders. Conditions were harsh, with punishments including solitary confinement and flogging. The prison witnessed notable executions, including fenian Joseph Poole. It is thought his body was buried under the current site of the Boxing Stadium which was then part of the prison. In 1877, the War Department acquired the site, but troops only arrived in the 1890s. Today, the site hosts the National Boxing Stadium built in 1939, which has been refurbished and serves various events such as boxing, concerts and wrestling. The Poddle flowed under the Barracks, Prison and the National Boxing Stadium.

Association with Poddle

The Abbey Stream, a stream of the river Poddle, originally ran from Greenmount under the Grand Canal into Griffith Barracks(previously Richmond Penitentiary/Bridewell). The Poddle now runs under the National Boxing Stadium, which increased costs and delayed the stadium’s opening date when first built in 1939.

What the Newspapers Say

  • In 1939, the opening of Boxing Stadium in Dublin was a significant achievement for Irish amateur boxing. Constructed over the River Poddle, it faced challenges due to the river’s course, which added costs and delayed completion. The stadium, designed with comfortable seating and a unique bowl shape, accommodates 2,600 spectators and features compact facilities beneath the seating. Despite its small capacity, it meets all expected needs. Boxing clubs will contribute 15% of their earnings to the stadium fund. Once the construction debt is repaid, the stadium will become the property of the Boxing Association.
Related newspaper articles
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It’s a proud day for Irish amateur boxing
2 Mar 1939

IT’S A PROUD DAY FOR IRISH AMATEUR BOXING New Luxury Stadium Stages First Show To-night Last night the New Boxing Stadium in Dublin was officially opened with all the usual…

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