Siena Convent chapel designed by Ashlin
THE Siena Convent stood on the Chord Road for many years - now a housing development - and was home to what was regarded as one of the finest churches in the country.
40 years ago, the Drogheda Independent featured the 100th anniversary of the chapel.
The consecration of the building took place on June 10 1877 by his Grace the Primate. Dr. McGettigan. The fact that the distinguished famous Dominican Father Tom Burke who was to preach added an additional interest to the occasion.
Very Rev. Dr. Russell, Provincial of Dominicans; officiated as with a large number of clergy and an immense congregation attended, the music was the ancient plain chant from Dominican Choral books.
The church was built by Mr. Butterly, a well known builder and the architect. was Mr. G. Ashlin.
The rich decorations on the ceilings and walls were the work of Mr. McQuillan a well-known plasterer in Drogheda during that time.
The beautiful cut stone statue of St. Catherine of Sienna was the work of the celebrated sculptor. T. Farrell of Dublin. The Dominican nuns were founded in Drogheda in 1722 by Dr. Hugh McMahon and the first Prioress was Mother Catherine Plunkett. grandniece of St. Oliver Plunkett.
The foundation stone of the convent house was laid on June 11th 1792, and 4 years later on August 12, 1796, the Community moved from Dyer Street to the new Siena Convent on the Chord Road.
In the Dominican Convent in Dyer St, three bishops were consecrated. They were Dr. Thomas Burke. OP.. Dr. Philip O’Reilly, and Dr. John Cruise, O.P.