Beelden van Ierland Reeks

Over 200 photographs capture the rich history and vibrant character of East Belfast over the past century. Highlighting the rapid growth of Belfast in the late nineteenth century, this collection showcases the urbanization and population density that shaped the region. Compiled from the East Belfast Historical Society and contributions from local residents, these images chronicle the development of this significant area, offering a visual narrative of its evolution and the lives of its people.

One hundred years ago almost 3,000,000 people visited a fair on an unimpressive piece of scrubland between the two prosperous South Dublin villages of Ballsbridge and Donnybrook. The Irish International Exhibition, however, wasn't just a funfair of swings and roundabouts, but an ambitious enterprise designed to show off the best of Irish industry and crafts, and to attract visitors from overseas to sample its myriad entertainments. Enormous buildings rose to the sky and a wonderful array of exhibits and attractions went on display. It was an extraordinary feat of organisation, and of entrepreneurship.