1790 – Sick and Indigent Roomkeepers Society, Palace Street, Dublin

“The Sick and Indigent Roomkeepers’ Society, formed in 1790, gives temporary relief in money to the destitute poor at their own lodgings. At a general meeting held at the Royal Exchange, once a month, the amount of the relief to be given during the ensuing month is fixed, which is distributed by four committees for the Barrack, Workhouse, Rotundo, and Stephen’s Green divisions of the city, which sit weekly.”
A Topographical Dictionary of Ireland, 1837

For years the only building on the short Palace Street which leads from Dame Street to the Lower Yard, Dublin Castle. Whether it is the vigorously incised plasterwork or the enigmatic society’s name that grabs your intention, this is a lovely building which has now, unfortunately, being flanked by a rather overbearing neighbour.