Poddle Hole
The Poddle Hole refers to the historic covered channels of the Poddle River, an integral part of Dublin’s urban landscape near St. Patrick’s Cathedral. These subterranean passages, also known as the Poddle’s underground courses, played a crucial role in shaping the city’s development and infrastructure.
The Poddle River, originally a prominent waterway, was gradually redirected and covered over time to accommodate the growing needs of Dublin’s urban expansion. By the late 12th century, sections of the river were channeled underground to control flooding and to support the construction of key city structures, including the iconic St. Patrick’s Cathedral.
Historical records reveal the significance of the Poddle Hole in Dublin’s history. For instance, on September 13, 1770, the Dublin Chronicle reported a surprising discovery when several hundred live herrings were found in the Poddle Hole beneath the House at the Sign of the Royal Oak at Nicholas’ Gate. Such incidents highlight the river’s once-vibrant ecological life, even in its covered state.
Another notable event occurred on October 1, 1789, when the Dublin Chronicle detailed a remarkable rescue of a young bull found trapped under Essex Street’s kitchen floor. The bull, which had presumably been swept down the Poddle Hole, was discovered due to its roaring and was saved by the tavern patrons, although its owner remained unidentified.
What the Newspapers Say
- On November 15, 1735, the *ublin Evening Post reported an incident involving Cavan Rioters being punished in Dublin. During their procession through the Liberty, one rioter used a “Poddle Hole Step” to splash mud on the hangman, enraging him further and resulting in more severe beatings. A “Poddle Hole Step” referred to a deliberate step into a gutter or muddy area, designed to splash those nearby. As the procession moved up Francis Street towards Newgate, one rioter defiantly danced and sang on the cart, showing little regard for the punishment.
- On September 13, 1770, the Dublin Chronicle reported a remarkable event: hundreds of herrings were discovered alive in the Poddle Hole, a water channel running beneath the House at the Sign of the Royal Oak at Nicholas’ Gate. The unusual find surprised many locals, highlighting the unexpected vitality of the fish in this section of the Poddle River.
- On October 1, 1789, the Dublin Chronicle reported that patrons of a tavern on Essex Street were startled by the roaring of an animal beneath their kitchen. Upon investigating, they found a young bull trapped under the flags covering the Poddle Water channel. The bull was rescued and kept safe, though its owner had not been identified. It is believed the bull was swept into the sewer system via the Poddle Hole.
