Denny Lane facts for kids

An 1889 bust of Denny Lane sculpted by John Lawlor

Plaque on Cork's South Mall

Denny Lane (born December 4, 1818 – died November 29, 1895) was an important Irish businessman and public figure. He lived in Cork city. When he was young, he was part of a group called the Young Irelanders.

Who Was Denny Lane?

Denny Lane was born in 1818. He became a well-known person in Cork, Ireland. He was a businessman and also cared deeply about Irish independence.

Early Life and Education

Denny Lane went to Trinity College, Dublin. This was a mostly Protestant school, but he was Catholic. While there, he joined the College Historical Society. He became good friends with Charles Gavan Duffy and Thomas Davis. These friends were key people who started the Young Ireland movement. After college, he studied law and became a lawyer.

A Poet and Nationalist

Denny Lane loved to write. He used the pen names "Domhnall na Glanna" or "Domhnall Gleannach." He wrote poems about Irish pride and romantic stories. His poems were printed in a newspaper called The Nation in the 1840s. Two of his most famous poems are "Carraigdhoun" and "Kate of Araglen."

Denny Lane and his friend Michael Joseph Barry were important Young Irelanders in Cork. The Young Irelanders wanted more rights for Ireland. After a movement in 1848, Denny Lane was held in Cork City Gaol (a prison). A famous writer, Thomas Carlyle, met Denny Lane in 1849. He said Denny was a "frank, hearty, honest" person.

Business and Community Work

Denny Lane took over his father's business in Cork. He also started other businesses nearby. He was very interested in new technology and ideas for industry. He helped lead railway companies, like the Macroom Railway Company.

He also cared a lot about education and culture in Cork. He was involved with the School of Art and the School of Music. He also helped with local groups focused on science, history, and literature.

Political Efforts

In 1876, Denny Lane tried to become a Member of Parliament for Cork City. He was part of the Home Rule movement, which wanted Ireland to have more control over its own laws. However, the votes for Home Rule were split between him and another candidate. This meant a different candidate was elected instead.

Later Life

Denny Lane passed away at his home in Cork in November 1895. He was 77 years old.