Over the past week, Youtube has been flooded with historical footage of Dublin and life in Ireland from decades past. British Movietone and the Associated Press have uploaded over 550,000 videos (totaling one million minutes) of footage that gives a glimpse into life in old time Dublin.
With everything from celebrity visits, natural disasters, and documentation of sporting events and everyday life, one could (and should!) spend hours watching the unique videos.
For a good place to start, check out the over 35 videos dedicated to the Dublin Horse Show, which has been a huge part of Dublin life since the nineteenth century. The videos, ranging from short black and white clips to longer color excerpts, make the viewer feel like they just sat down in an old movie theatre, and are getting caught up on the country’s news prior to the feature film.
As the video demonstrates, the Horse Show was a favorite event for Irish, who took great pride in their equestrian stock and abilities. The show continues to draw massive crowds in modern day, making it one of the social and cultural highlights of the year.
The Discover Ireland Dublin Horse Show is preparing for its 142nd showing, to be held next week from August 5th-9th. A major annual event that celebrates both the historical traditional of the Irish horse industry and the incredible skills of the elite riders who enter the competition, the horse show is one of the most exciting events of the year throughout the country.
Over 1,500 horses will be on show, competing in events ranging from Dressage and Show Jumping to Performance Irish Draught competition, making sure there will be plenty to watch for horse lovers of all types. And with prize money totaling 1 million euros, the level of expertise and showmanship will be second to none.
Though the horses may be the biggest draw, there is something for everyone to enjoy at the show. Entertainment will occur throughout the run of the show, including French equestrian comedian Joel Chacon and equestrian artist Clemence Faivre. Over 300 stands will provide great shopping opportunities, and the food and children’s activities are not to be missed.
One of the most popular events during the show is “Ladies Day” which is known as a staple in the social and fashion calendar. August 6th will provide ladies the chance to dress to the nines for a chance to win Best Dressed, which comes with a healthy prize of 10,000 euros. Other prizes are awarded for Most Creative Hat, Best Dressed Man, and Most Colorful Outfit.
Ireland is skilled at maintaining connection to the past by passing on traditions, and the horse show is certainly one of those traditions where the entire family can enjoy themselves, much in the same manner that families did over 100 years ago.