The Old Bridge

8HVM+XQJ Carrick-on-Suir, County Tipperary, Ireland

The Old Bridge, dating back to 1306 and upgraded in 1447 by the Ormond family, was the sole bridge over the river between Clonmel and the sea for 300 years. Steeped in history, Cromwell’s army crossed it in 1649 with 7,500 soldiers en route to Waterford. In 1799, Ireland’s worst inland drowning tragedy occurred here, claiming 100 lives. The bridge also saw hangings, like Maurice Quann in 1811, and was partially destroyed by Republicans during the Civil War.

Built by a Butler in 1447, the Old Bridge which spans the River Suir at Carrick is one of the most striking stone bridges in Ireland.

There’s a plaque on the bridge that reads …

The Old Bridge holds an abiding place within the affections, experience and traditions of the people of Carrick-on-Suir. Linking past and present, along with communities, counties and regions. Tradition has it that a charter to build a bridge at Carrick was granted in 1306 but this structure more certainly dates originally from around 1447 when it was built by Edmond Mac Richard Butler.

Until the 18th Century Carrick Bridge was the first above the estuary and of great strategic and trading importance as the link between South Leinster and East Munster.

Holding the Carrick bridge was essential to Cromwell’s South Eastern campaign in 1649.

Repairs are recorded in 1614, 1688, 1697, 1788 and 1804.

On the 8th of February, 1799, a barge from Clonmel carrying 11 men, 40 women and 60 children smashed against the bridge in conditions of heavy flood. Over 100 were drowned.

A hanging on the bridge is recorded in 1811.

The large navigation arch was rebuilt following civil war damage in 1922.

“Salmon wait for the tide to still the weir, boys are fishing from the bridge built before Columbus raised a sail” – by Poet Michael Coady