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The first pneumatic tyre was manufactured in Dublin - the site is close to the city centre and marked by a plaque [picture here]. It was invented in 1888 by a Scotsman, John Boyd Dunlop who was a vet and wanted his son to ride his bicycle in a more comfortable fashion. Some Dublin businessmen saw its potential and the commercial version was made in Upper Stephen's Street (off Wexford St/Aungier Street junction) in 1889. While Dunlop's name still exists in the world of tyre making, he didn't make the fortune to which he should have been entitled. Unfortunately, this historic site was demolished in 2005 for a retail development. My personal opinion is that it was a scandal that this building was not listed for preservation; I only hope there are more photographs besides my own. | ||||||
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