Allotments in Dublin 1900–1950

Abstract

Allotments, more commonly called ‘plots’, were first laid out in inner city Dublin in the early 20^th century. Their purpose was to allow ‘plotholders’ to grow vegetables primarily for their own use. A range of state and voluntary organisations supported the allotment movement. Following the introduction of Government regulations in 1917, the number of allotments increased in an attempt to boost wartime food production. Following a decline in the early 1920s, the Acquisition of Lands (Allotments) Act of 1926 spurred further growth. However, many allotments were lost to housing schemes, while new allotments were located further into the developing suburbs. Dublin Corporation continued to provide allotments, especially during the Second World War. By 1949, however, the supply of allotments exceeded demand. This paper draws on government, trade and newspaper reports to consider the evolution of the allotment movement in Dublin during the first half of the twentieth century, illustrating the changing numbers of allotments and their location.

Keywords:

• Allotments
• Allotment Movement
• Vegetables
• Urban Food Production
• Dublin

Acknowledgements

The Library, University College Dublin; the Library, Royal Dublin Society and the Library, National Botanic Gardens, Glasnevin.

Bernard Kaye, UCD School of Agriculture and Food Science annotated the base map, which was provided by Dr Joe Brady, Dean of Arts, UCD.

This paper was delivered as a lecture for members of the Old Dublin Society in March 2011. The author is grateful for the many reminiscences of members who remembered ‘the plots’ in various parts of the city.

The advice of the referee and editor in tending this ‘plot’ and bringing ‘the produce’ to publication is much appreciated.