Botanic Gardens in Belfast has a fascinating history rooted in its origins with the Belfast Botanic and Horticultural Society, who purchased the area in 1829. Initially, access to the gardens required a private subscription, with costs reflecting the exclusivity of the facility, such as one guinea in the 1850s.
Throughout much of the 19th century, Botanic Gardens boasted notable attractions like the Palm House and the Tropical Ravine. These features drew visitors, not just for botanical interest but also for a wide range of events and spectacles. For instance, in 1861, the renowned tightrope walker Blondin, famous for his Niagara Falls feat, performed a high-wire act at Botanic Gardens, attracting a crowd of seven thousand spectators. The following year, Deerfoot, a Native American athlete, held a race challenge, adding to the diverse range of entertainment offered.
Balloon ascents were another popular attraction. In 1843, Mr. Green ascended in the balloon ‘Albion,’ flying over Cavehill and landing near Ballyclare. These events were so popular that gas lines were laid from the Gas Works to facilitate them. Despite the enthusiasm, not all attempts were successful; in 1867, William Hodman’s attempt to cross the Irish Sea in a balloon ended in disappointment, despite drawing a crowd estimated between twelve to fifteen thousand.
Botanic Gardens also played a significant role in the social and political fabric of Belfast. It was a venue for religious and political demonstrations, reflecting the city’s tumultuous history. In 1862, Protestants protested against the Party Processions Act, which restricted parades and sectarian meetings after a violent clash at Dolly’s Brae. Similar demonstrations occurred in 1893 against the First Home Rule Act.
The park’s opening on Sundays also sparked controversy, with clergy and religious figures decrying it as a violation of Sabbath observance. Figures like Presbyterian firebrand Henry Cooke referred to Botanic Gardens as the ‘Sunday Trap,’ condemning Sunday visitors as risking damnation. This sentiment was echoed by others concerned about the proliferation of meeting houses and activities on Sundays in Belfast.
Botanic Gardens remains a cherished landmark in Belfast, blending botanical beauty with a rich tapestry of historical events and social dynamics that have shaped the city over the centuries.
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