Nestled in the heart of Poplar Square, Naas, Lawlor’s of Naas has long been an iconic establishment in Ireland, with a history as rich and vibrant as the town itself. At the centre of this legacy stands Mrs Brigid Lawlor, the remarkable woman whose entrepreneurial spirit and tenacity transformed a modest establishment into a cornerstone of Irish hospitality and social life.
The Formidable Matriarch: Mrs Brigid Lawlor
In 1913, long before the days when women’s liberation was even a whisper on the wind, Mrs Brigid Lawlor began her venture in the small town of Naas. She opened a modest restaurant and hotel at Poplar Square, unaware that this was the beginning of what would become one of Ireland’s most renowned hospitality enterprises. The hotel was originally known as the “Nás na Ríogh” hotel, a name steeped in history, reflecting Naas’s ancient title as the “Meeting Place of Kings.” Brigid Lawlor acquired an existing hostelry of the same name and officially opened her doors in May 1913, offering lunches and accommodation to locals and travellers alike.
Mrs Lawlor quickly established a reputation for high-class catering, capable of handling large-scale events with the utmost professionalism and quality. Her reputation for excellence led to prestigious contracts at some of Ireland’s most significant social events. She was soon catering for the RDS Spring Show and Horse Show, Punchestown and Curragh racecourses, including the Irish Derby, as well as many other racecourses around the country. Her influence extended to glittering hunt balls, Garda and Army dances, and local social dances in Naas Town Hall. Brigid Lawlor's business acumen and organisational prowess set her apart, making her one of Ireland’s leading businesswomen of her time.
A Pioneer in Business and Horse Breeding
Mrs Lawlor’s achievements extended beyond the realms of hospitality. She was also a successful horse breeder, a rare accomplishment for a woman in her era. Among her notable successes was Mill House, a horse that clinched victory at the Cheltenham Gold Cup in 1963, further cementing her status as a formidable figure in both business and equestrian circles.
Her ability to balance multiple enterprises while maintaining an unyielding standard of quality is a testament to her indomitable spirit. She remained at the helm of her various ventures until her death in 1969, leaving behind a legacy that continues to influence the hospitality industry in Ireland.
Lawlor’s Ballroom: A Hub of Social Activity
In the early 1930s, recognising the growing popularity of social dances, Mrs Lawlor made a bold move that would further elevate her brand. She acquired a three-storey house at Corban’s Mill, known as Mill House, and converted the adjacent carpet factory into what would become Lawlor’s Ballroom. This venue soon became one of the premier dance halls in Ireland, drawing crowds from near and far to enjoy music and dance in a splendid setting. Lawlor’s Ballroom played host to some of the best bands of the era, becoming synonymous with quality entertainment and social gatherings.
The ballroom remained a focal point of social life in Naas and beyond, hosting large events, balls, and dances right up to the 1980s. Its legacy as a premier venue is remembered fondly by those who experienced its grandeur and the joyous occasions and romances it facilitated.
The Modern Era: A Legacy Preserved and Enhanced
Lawlor’s of Naas has continued to evolve, retaining its status as a cherished institution while embracing modernity. Under the guidance of the current proprietor, Jack, the hotel has undergone significant refurbishments, blending its storied past with contemporary elegance. The history of the hotel is woven into its very fabric, with each piece of decor telling a story of its own.
For example, the elegant brass railings and doors, now framing the entrance to Vi’s Restaurant, once served as security gates in a Las Vegas money-counting room. Each piece has been carefully selected and repurposed to enhance the unique character of the hotel, creating an atmosphere where history and modernity coexist harmoniously.
Other notable features include the magnificent stone fireplace and chandeliers, imported from a chateau in France, and the custom stained glass windows from Nevada, created as a memorial by Weltha for her husband. These elements, along with the carefully restored reception desk from the Berkeley Court Hotel and the repurposed heat vents from Christchurch Cathedral, highlight the attention to detail and commitment to preserving the hotel’s historical integrity.
A Lasting Legacy
Lawlor’s of Naas is more than just a hotel; it is a symbol of resilience, innovation, and tradition. From its humble beginnings in 1913 under the guidance of the formidable Mrs Brigid Lawlor, to its present-day incarnation as a luxurious and historically rich establishment, Lawlor’s has played an integral role in the social and cultural life of Naas and Ireland. As it continues to welcome guests from near and far, the spirit of Brigid Lawlor lives on, a testament to the enduring power of vision, determination, and a commitment to excellence.
