Winter & Christmas 1913
Century Ireland and the RTÉ History Show join forces to reflect on the end of a turbulent year
On 22 December 2013, The History Show on RTÉ Radio One, in the company of Century Ireland directors - Mike Cronin, Mark Duncan and Paul Rouse - went back to winter 1913 to paint a picture of life in Ireland this time 100 years ago.
A frozen fountain in Dublin in the early 1900s. Temperatures in Ireland dropped to below zero at the end of 1913 (Image: National Library of Ireland, LROY 03451)
The run up to Christmas witnessed a frenzy of consumerism and activity. But there was a huge contrast between wealth and poverty - not only in the capital but also, elsewhere in the country. As the Lockout headed into its fifth month, thousands of hungry and beleaguered workers faced a bleak festive season with their families. In this programme, Mike Cronin, Mark Duncan and Paul Rouse of Century Ireland discuss the both the routine and the extraordinary events in Irish life. As well as a discussion of the major political, sporting and social developments of winter 1913, listen to special features on the huge increase in parcels an post arriving in the country, the Gaiety Panto, films for the festive season, shop windows and the weather. Listen also to Lorcan Clancy's 1913 News Round-up and Ruth Barton's account of Ireland at the Pictures during the festive season.
The full show can be accessed here
