The Clery’s Story: The mixed fortunes of Dublin’s first ‘monster mart’

This event has ended

Online, Monday 24th May

When McSwiney Delaney launched their palatial department store on Sackville Street in 1853, it was designed to emulate the world famous Le Bon Marche in Paris, which had opened its doors in the previous year. Taken over by Limerick man Michael J. Clery in 1883, the business went on to experience some strange turns of fortune. During the Easter Rising of 1916 the windows of the building melted into the street, from the heat of the massive fire that burned the store and the hotel above it to the ground. Rebuilt and re-opened in 1922, Clerys continued in business for nearly 20 years until it went into receivership in 1941. It was purchased by Kerryman Denis Guiney, who retained the Clerys' name. The shock closure of the store in 2015 was followed by some years of debate about the future of the iconic building, which is expected to open this year as a luxury hotel, part of the Clerys’ Quarter.

Dublin City Council Historian in Residence for Dublin Central Dr Mary Muldowney will present the fourth in her series of talks on the retail industry in the Dublin 1 area.


Date:
Monday 24th May
Time:
7.00pm
Price:
Free

You might also like...

What's on

Dublin by Night Fest

Dame Street, College Green & Capel Street

Get ready for Dublin’s most electrifying evening yet. On Saturday 1st November 2025, the city comes alive after dark as Dublin By Night Fest returns in grand style to kick off Winter in Dublin. This year's festival has built on previous years and is expanded across three landmark locations: Dame Street, College Green and Capel Street Expect an immersive and exciting celebration like no other. Why You Can’t Miss It: 50,000 attendees filling the streets with energy and excitement. Dozens of businesses and experiences, from artisan food stalls to pop-up retail and cultural sh

What's on

The Convention Before Christmas

National Show Centre

Step into a Magical Christmas Village Where Holiday Dreams Come to Life! This December, The Convention Before Christmas brings together the wonder of a traditional Christmas market and the thrill of Ireland’s biggest pop culture celebration all under one roof. Expect: Beloved movie cars and iconic set pieces for photo ops Celebrity guests & actors from hit shows and films (including Wednesday and Star Wars) Cosplay competitions and dazzling fan showcases Raffles, giveaways, and Christmas shopping with artisan gifts & fandom collectibles Santa’s Grotto, live elf

What's on

Pendulum Summit

The Convention Centre

Pendulum Summit, The World’s No. 1 Business & Leadership Summit will be back at the Convention Centre Dublin on January 23rd 2026. Our annual inspiring and actionable programme brings together the best orators & authorities on the planet to share their insights and empower our delegates to maximise their impact and potential in all aspects of their lives. Pendulum delivers solutions in vocational training for individuals, companies, and business clients, in leadership, high performance, self-empowerment, and a myriad of other professional growth areas. The networking extravaganza