Limerick Through The Looking Glass: The Ludlow Collection

Limerick through the Looking Glass, the Ludlow Collection, a collection of photographs by amateur photographer John Riddell. 

Children in Thomondgate Enjoying Winter
Children in Thomondgate Enjoying Winter

John Riddell came to Limerick from Glasgow, Scotland in 1880 to run Walker’s Distillery on Brown’s Quay, Thomondgate. When not managing the distillery, John could be found capturing a unique view of Limerick through a series of personal photographs. 

A stunning collection of unique scenes of Limerick people and places at the turn of the century. Scenes of people skating on the frozen Shannon, of pigs being herded through the streets of Limerick made this a rare collection and exhibition. Curated by Sharon Slater. Displayed in City Hall in February 2015.

Ludlow Collection
Ludlow Collection

The Ludlow Collection of family photographs is a compilation of images by John Riddell and is held by his descendants, David and Steve Ludlow, both living in England.

Steamship on Limerick docks
Steamship on Limerick docks
Ice-skating on the Shannon
Ice-skating on the Shannon
Video by Limerick Archives, images courtesy of the Riddell family