Athy Story
Uncover the heritage of Athy through these
six historical snapshots
1533
The Rent Table
Used for rent payments between tenants and landlords, this remarkable table dates to 1533. Originally housed in Gerald Fitzgerald’s home at Maynooth Castle, it arrived in Athy following
the 1534 confiscation of the estate.
1803–1961
Stained Glass
Windows
These vibrant stained-glass windows were part of St. Michael’s Parish Church, which served the community for over 150 years. After its demolition in 1961, the windows found a new home as part of Athy’s preserved legacy.the 1534 confiscation of the estate.
1791
Grand Canal And Augustus Stone
The Grand Canal extension reached Athy in 1791, linking the town to Dublin. The canal journey once began at 5 AM and took 13 hours. The original keystone of the re-modelled 1890s Augustus Bridge is now displayed at the Shackleton Experience.
1917–1918
World War I –
Memorial Plaque
Honouring Patrick and Aloysius Heydon, Irish Guards killed in France in 1917, this plaque was created by their comrades and sent home in 1918. A moving tribute to local lives lost in war.
1903
Gordon Bennett Race And Arrol Johnston
The Grand Canal extension reached Athy in 1791, linking the town to Dublin. The canal journey once began at 5 AM and took 13 hours. The original keystone of the re-modelled 1890s Augustus Bridge is now displayed at the Shackleton Experience.
c.1253
Monk’s Head
Discovery
Discovered in the former grounds of the Priory of St. John, this carved stone monk’s head offers a rare glimpse into Athy’s monastic and medieval roots.


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