Sunday, 28th September at 1pm in Ranelagh Gardens, in conjunction with the Ranelagh Arts Festival, Councillor Mary Freehill (deputising on behalf of the Lord Mayor) will unveil a sculpture to commemorate Richard Crosbie, “the first Irishman to fly”.

On 19th January 1785 at 2.30pm, Crosbie launched, from an exhibition area at Ranelagh Gardens his "Grand Air Balloon and Flying Barge" in which he intended to cross the Irish Sea. The balloon was beautifully ornamented with paintings of Minerva and Mercury supporting the Arms of Ireland and emblematic figures of the winds. More than 35,000 people had gathered to view the historical ascent. However, due to early darkness Crosbie decided to break his attempt to cross the Irish Sea and landed safely at Clontarf.

The statue, which was designed by leading Irish artist Rory Breslin, depicts Richard Crosbie’s youthful curiosity and many of the items displayed on the bronze reflect an airborne theme. The sculpture, which is adorned with various images, gives a sense of the showmanship, extravagance and ornamentation that was evident on the actual day in January 1785. It is designed to be a fitting commemoration to Richard Crosbie and his redoubtable curiosity and determination while also being a timeless piece of art in its own right.

Dublin City Council and the Department of the Environment, Heritage & Local Government’s Per Cent for Art Scheme, funded the statue. It will be unveiled by Councillor Mary Freehill assisted by Mr. Frank McNally of the Irish Times and Mrs Rose Doherty (mother of world snooker star, Ken Doherty). Speaking before the launch, Cllr Freehill spoke of her delight at being asked to unveil the statue “ It is truly fitting that we should honour Richard Crosbie with a statue here in Ranelagh Gardens, where Irelands first manned balloon flight took off. I hope that residents and visitors will take time out to come and view the statue”

ENDS