The fast-flowing Tolka river led to thriving linen industries in Drumcondra, but by 1800 the area was a notorious haunt for highwaymen who hid in local forests waiting to plunder wealthy merchants.
During that time, the penalty for thievery was death; the local pub, the Big Tree on Dorset Street, takes its name from the hangings on the tree outside the tavern. The cellar was used as a petty sessions courthouse for Drumcondra. In one case, five men were sentenced to death in a trial that lasted a mere 60 seconds. Today the local hostelries play host to visiting dignitaries and GAA fans en route to Croke Park rather than bandits locked up in their cellars.
Number 56 Upper Drumcondra Road is a handsome end-of-terrace Victorian house standing at 214sq m (2,300sq ft).
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The house in the form of three rundown flats was bought by current owners Jean and Gary Fearon in 2010 for €450,000. They added a light-filled kitchen and dining extension to the rear, in conjunction with rewiring replumbing and all the toil that accompanies renovating a period house.
To the front are two interconnecting reception rooms with oak flooring and new sash windows, which keep the outside traffic noise to a hum. To the rear lies a bright streamlined kitchen, the highlight of which is a colossal Silestone island and breakfast bar. A sunroom leads to an impressive artificial lawn which is light years away from the alternative neon greens. Maintenance-free, it is also impervious to canine digging.
The family bathroom boasts a large shower and a freestanding bath.
The master bedroom has wonderful views of the leafy gardens of St Patrick’s College opposite and features a working fireplace, as do all four bedrooms. The new occupier of the smallest bedroom will be compensated with an en-suite and a glimmer of Croke Park.
While the house has many highlights including original coving, fireplaces and an impressive renovation, the surprise is the bedroom on the top floor, which could make a further reception room due to its size.
The Fearons are staying in the locality with an eye on another project and have placed their home on the market with estate agent Sherry FitzGerald with an asking price of €850,000. Number 45, of a similar size and in need of a facelift, sold in July 2014 for €675,000.
