NUMBER 1,023

BENCHMARKS continued

The great days of the benchmark hunts may have drawn to a close, but Benchmarker still likes to travel prepared should an eventuality present itself. And so it was when visiting North Donegal recently on a different type of quest. And there the village of Ramelton has seen better times. These days when one contemplates the remains of what were once admirable buildings, sadly it's a somewhat pitiful sight. Bagging this one offered no consolation as Benchmarker and companion departed with a heavy heart.

Below: A 'mark in Ramelton on Castle Street at its junction with Back Lane.

 

Above: Looking north east on Castle Street with the 'mark at bottom right.

NUMBER 507

BENCHMARKS continued

It is always gratifying to discover that the craft of benchmark-hunting has been passed on to the next generation; although at what cost is difficult to gauge. This one was recorded by Mike - son of M.C. - on the corner of Castle Street with Market Street in Castlebar in County Mayo.

Below: The 'mark on the corner of Castle Street with Market Street.

 

 Above: On Market Street looking north-east with the 'mark near the bottom of the corner facing.

NUMBERS 51 & 52

BENCHMARKS continued

“Two benchmarks both alike in dignity

In fair Castle Street where we lay our scene.”

Benchmarker had high hopes that a search of the buildings within the environs of Dublin Castle would reveal a goodly bounty. The end result - nada, zilch, zero, not a sausage. But the visit was not completely wasted because just outside on the eastern side of Castle Street were found this pair. They face each other across the setted street, so close it seems they might reach across and caress; aaawww!

Below: This fine building opened in 1781 as Newcomen Bank. Today it is in use as the Rates Office for Dublin City Council. A plaque on the wall show that Eamonn Ceannt - after whom Benchmarker's kebele is named - worked here in the offices of Dublin Corporation from 1900 until taking part in the Rising in 1916. The 'mark is on the left corner of the front of the building.

Below: The 'mark on the western side of City Hall. It can be seen between the man standing at left and the group sitting on the steps enjoying lunch. They were interested in what it was that Benchmarker was up to. It being National Fish and Chip Day with all meals being sold at half price, Burdocks was doing a steady trade. Benchmarker was offered a chip, but as someone who never wavers when on the prowl he politely declined, made his excuses and left.