Plaque unveiled to remember nationalist event from 1900

A plaque commemorating a nationalist children’s event held in response to the visit of Britain’s Queen Victoria in 1900 has been unveiled in Dublin.

The “Patriotic Children’s Treat” was organised by nationalist women including political activist Maud Gonne.

During Queen Victoria’s visit, between 3 to 27 April 1900, a children’s entertainment event was held in Phoenix Park with around 30,000 attending.

Nationalists criticised the event and claimed only 5,000 of the 35,000 children in the city “had allowed themselves be used for a Unionist demonstration”.

In response to the event, Ms Gonne and others organised a “national treat” for children who did not attend the Phoenix Park festival.

The nationalist event was held in Clonturk Park, Drumcondra, on 1 July 1900 and it is estimated that 25,000 to 30,000 attended the festival.

As part of the unveiling of the plaque, Dublin City Council held a “Picnic in the Park” to mark the occasion.

Speaking at the event, Deputy Lord Mayor of Dublin Cllr Donna Cooney said: “The unveiling of this plaque serves as a tribute to the spirit of the children and organisers of the Patriotic Children’s Treat.

“It was organised by women who had no money and fundraised to provide an event for 30,000 children. It stands as a reminder of their dedication to national pride and self-determination.”