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Crossroads of Time: The Echoes of Athlone's Railway Legacy
In this captivating episode of "Whispering Stones," we delve into the rich tapestry of Athlone's railway history, exploring the twin tales of its two iconic stations. Set against the backdrop of the River Shannon, the episode brings to life the Midland Great Western Railway station and the Great Southern and Western Railway station, each a landmark in its own right.
Journey with us as we trace the origins of the Midland station opened in 1851 and designed by J.S. Mulvey. Its austere Italianate fa莽ade and seventeen-bay frontage symbolise an era of architectural grandeur and industrial ambition. We explore how this station, once a bustling hub connecting Galway to Dublin, has transitioned into modern times, serving now as a functional space for Irish Rail.
Across the river, the story of the Great Southern and Western Railway station unfolds, a creation of George Wilkinson, famed for his design of Irish workhouses. Opened in 1859, this station's elegant Italianate style and decorative Doric pillars tell a tale of aesthetic beauty and functional adaptation, evolving from a goods station to the main railway line for Athlone.
"Crossroads of Time" not only recounts the architectural and operational nuances of these stations but also delves into the broader narrative of Irish railway history. The episode highlights the 1924 merger of the two railway companies, marking a significant shift in Irish transport history, and the subsequent changes in the 1970s and 1980s under C贸ras Iompair 脡ireann's direction.
Accompanied by ambient sounds and reflective music, this episode is more than just a historical recount; it's an immersive experience. It invites listeners to reflect on the relentless march of progress and the enduring stories of these architectural marvels. Tune in to "Whispering Stones" for a journey through time, where the echoes of Athlone's railway legacy continue to resonate in the heart of Ireland.
If you would like to check out my art work depicting Athlone Railway station in 1967 please do so here 馃憠https://bernicecookeartist.com/products/athlone-railway-1967-county-westmeath-original-painting
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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By Bernice CookeIn this captivating episode of "Whispering Stones," we delve into the rich tapestry of Athlone's railway history, exploring the twin tales of its two iconic stations. Set against the backdrop of the River Shannon, the episode brings to life the Midland Great Western Railway station and the Great Southern and Western Railway station, each a landmark in its own right.
Journey with us as we trace the origins of the Midland station opened in 1851 and designed by J.S. Mulvey. Its austere Italianate fa莽ade and seventeen-bay frontage symbolise an era of architectural grandeur and industrial ambition. We explore how this station, once a bustling hub connecting Galway to Dublin, has transitioned into modern times, serving now as a functional space for Irish Rail.
Across the river, the story of the Great Southern and Western Railway station unfolds, a creation of George Wilkinson, famed for his design of Irish workhouses. Opened in 1859, this station's elegant Italianate style and decorative Doric pillars tell a tale of aesthetic beauty and functional adaptation, evolving from a goods station to the main railway line for Athlone.
"Crossroads of Time" not only recounts the architectural and operational nuances of these stations but also delves into the broader narrative of Irish railway history. The episode highlights the 1924 merger of the two railway companies, marking a significant shift in Irish transport history, and the subsequent changes in the 1970s and 1980s under C贸ras Iompair 脡ireann's direction.
Accompanied by ambient sounds and reflective music, this episode is more than just a historical recount; it's an immersive experience. It invites listeners to reflect on the relentless march of progress and the enduring stories of these architectural marvels. Tune in to "Whispering Stones" for a journey through time, where the echoes of Athlone's railway legacy continue to resonate in the heart of Ireland.
If you would like to check out my art work depicting Athlone Railway station in 1967 please do so here 馃憠https://bernicecookeartist.com/products/athlone-railway-1967-county-westmeath-original-painting
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.