Review of MOUNT JEROME: Dublin's Victorian Cemetery. By Maurice Curtis…read more 30 March 2026 Reviewed by Ben O'Reilly, Film and Book Critic Maurice Curtis, the well-known Historian and writer, has turned his meticulously researched attention to uncover the vast secrets and stories surrounding those buried in Mount Jerome Cemetery, Harold's Cross, Dublin. This particular offering is a veritable "who's who" of the famous and not-so-famous, that are buried in Mount Jerome. Many of the names are familiar as they relate to the names of thoroughfares in the local area and in Dublin generally. The book, adorned with photographs of the many Victorian memorials, tombs, vaults and crypts, is a veritable treasure-trove of information on the history and lives of those within, complete with many anecdotal tales. For example; at the tomb of the Gresham family vault is a space for a bell - which is no longer there - which Mrs Gresham insisted on, in case she woke up! The cable from the bell is still there leading into the chamber area. Just some of the names which piqued my interest, included: Members of Michael Collins' "The Squad" (AKA The Twelve Apostles), Thomas Davis (founding editor of The Nation), Sheridan Le Fanu (writer of gothic, horror and mystery stories), Bram Stoker's mother and brother. Leo Burdock (of the famous chipper family), the Guinness family, James Pearse (father of Patrick Pearse), Lady Jane Wilde (mother of Oscar - who wrote under Esperanza. J. M. Synge, J. B. Yeats George Russel (AE). Audrey Hepburn's father is also buried there as is Maeve Binchy, The Pollock family may be unknown to many - including me - but they hold the distinction of having the very first burial held in Mount Jerome in 1836, as their new-born twins were interred within. Some of the tombs stand out from others, and one in particular is the Cusack family vault, which resembles a miniature Greek temple. The book - which lists all those famous and infamous - has an alphabetical index, for anyone seeking out information on a particular individual. I will be allowing plenty of time during my next visit to Mount Jerome, as I take a stroll along its many by-ways with a renewed interest in those entombed within. The book is available in ALAN HANNA'S BOOKSHOP in Rathmines and the Village Bookshop in Terenure or from AMAZON. It retails at 24.95 Euro and is in hardback. Ben OReilly

Hmmm, how do you review a cemetery and crematorium. OK, here goes…read more As a cemetery, the older part of the graveyard is fascinating with the old and weathered headstones. There are some truly beautiful tombs and headstones. It's worth a wander through if this interests you. I've been here for two services in the crematorium. To be honest my first visit was a shock to the system when all I had been used to was the usual Irish church funeral. But cremation is becoming more and more popular (erm, is that even the right word for it?), so I imagine I will need to go back some time in the future. The interior is church like, but less showy in terms of decor (if memory serves). The curtain was the most striking part of it all, when it closed as the chosen music was played. The cafe was pleasant when I had to wait some time the second service to begin. Basic, but provided a nice cup of tea and biscuits which can be purchased from the pleasant staff. Basic but clean facilities here also, should nature call.

Michael went above and beyond in his efforts to complete my mum's memorial stone…read more I live in England and communications were either by phone or email. Michael was very quick to reply. The service I received was excellent. He ensured everything was just perfect. I would highly recommend Michael at Harrison Burnell.

Harrison Burnell did an amazing job on 2 graves for us. One which was over 120 years old looks like…read morenew and the second one for my dad.. Great workmanship, great value well done lads

This place is more or less across the road from Shanganah Cemetery which for them has to be a good…read morelocation. They are wonderfully helpful when you are try to choose a headstone and you are not too sure what you want and for getting the right wording added. ....but you could always use them for business or home sign.

From the owner: Headstones, Pet Memorials, Signs, Additional Inscriptions, Chippings, Renovations of headstnesread more