Alfie Byrne was the well-loved mayor of Dublin for many years

Bicycle-wheel maker, barman, publican, councillor, senator, MP, and TD, Alderman Alfred Byrne is best remembered as Lord Mayor of Dublin. Between 1930 and 1939. Alfie, as he was affectionately known, monopolised the post of Lord Mayor, serving the city for nine consecutive terms.

A one-man political machine, he was known as The Shaking Hand of Dublin for his eternal canvassing, and he always carried a bag of sweets with him for the poor children of Dublin. Byrne returned to the Mansion House in 1954 for his tenth and final term.

Permanent Collection

Visit the British Pathe website to watch Alfie Byrne delivering a speech:

http://www.britishpathe.com/video/interview-with-mr-alfred-byrne-lord-mayor-of-dubli