Survey Data
Reg No
13707048
Rating
Regional
Categories of Special Interest
Architectural, Artistic, Scientific
Previous Name
Louth County Gaol
Original Use
Gates/railings/walls
In Use As
Gates/railings/walls
Date
1845 - 1855
Coordinates
304342, 306774
Date Recorded
10/08/2005
Date Updated
--/--/--
Description
Walls, built c. 1850, forming boundary around Dundalk Garda Station. Squared random coursed sandstone and limestone walling, half-round granite coping; walls flanking east main gaol block with round-headed arches, ashlar granite surrounds, painted vertically-sheeted gates; entrance to west, square-profile piers, flanking walls forming splayed entrance; square-profile piers to north, granite caps, cast-iron gates. Squared coursed low wall to east of front building, granite coping; snecked stone walling to north and south of front building, granite coping, cast-iron railings, spear and axe finials, dressed ashlar limestone piers with stepped panels and square caps, wrought-iron gates.
Appraisal
Built to secure the gaol, this wall has an imposing influence within its hinterland. Though the uses of the buildings contained within it have changed, the wall retains its severe character. Skillfully built, the lower east walls reflect the administrative nature of this part of the complex, highlighted by the high flanking walls hiding the buildings to the west. The cast-iron railings complete this enclosure, with their finely-crafted detailing adding an artistic element.