The very heart of the city: The story of Denis Guiney and Clerys

by Peter Costello

For generations, Clerys has represented the excitement of shopping in the heart of Ireland's capital. It was founded as one of the world's first department stores in the bustling, crinolined Dublin of the 1850s. Over the years it has seen enacted on its doorsteps the stirring events of the city's history - from the Fenians and the 1916 Rising, to President Kennedy's visit and the demolition of Nelson's Pillar. In the 1940s the shop was rescued from bankruptcy by a larger-than-life character who made it a I centre of Dublin life. For many, Clerys is still Denis Guiney's store. This lively memoir traces the changes of fortune through the years of a much-loved Dublin landmark.

150 pages, Paperback

Published January 1, 1992

Reviews

[Nicola Pierce · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wholly accessible account of the history of Ireland's, and the world's, first department store - Clerys on O'Connell Street - which is sadly gone today. Lots of wonderful photographs too. A nostalgic read for Dubliners of a certain age!