Our Story – Ireland's Oldest Shop
Jeremiah Higgins is a shop in the west of Ireland that has been passed from generation to generation for over two-hundred years. Started by Patrick Higgins in 1820, who passed it to his son Thomas, who then left it to his son Jeremiah. When Jeremiah passed it to his daughters, they left his name over the door.
The shop has survived through many major events, like the 1840 Irish Famine, the 1916 Easter Rising, World War I and World War II.
Jeremiah Higgins circa 1930s
Old Aligns with New
Time has passed, but much has stayed the same. Upon walking through the heavy wooden door, you are greeted by the chime of the antique brass bell and hum of vinyl on the gramophone. Originally, there were two counters on either side of the shop; one selling suits, and the other selling garment-making materials. This layout has been retained, but our stock has changed. When, at one time, we were in the business of general drapery and leather crafting, we now specialise in Irish gifts, leather goods and accessories. The shop has evolved into new trades frequently throughout the generations; selling everything from detachable shirt collars to haberdashery products. Jeremiah Higgins is now a destination for those seeking that special gift; especially during the Christmas season.
Eileen and Delia
The Higgins sisters, Eileen and Delia, ran the shop from the end of World War II to 2015; Leaving an incredible legacy of loyalty, love and persistence. From birth, they lived above the shop with their father Jeremiah, mother Elizabeth and their brothers and sisters. They were the inspiration for the shop today and the protectors of it's history for nearly half a century.
Elizabeth Higgins with her daughter Lily in 1922
The Suppliers
These days we stock high-quality gifts, leather goods, accessories, crafts and more. Some of our brands have been with us since the beginning; as proven by the discovery of a worn rail-crate from Rathbornes.The Documents
We have worked hard to retain the shops features, but we have worked even harder to preserve our collection of historic documents. When you approach the counter, be sure to take a look at what's hiding under the glass. You should see layers of documents, with some dating back as far as 1899. We have everything from birth certificates to shop day books. As you read, you may find yourself lost in the stories that emerge from the pages and letters. Some people have been lucky enough to find their relatives in our books. It is truly unique and comical experience to find your grandmother described vividly in a shop journal, so we're told.
Shop book from circa 1900
Meet us on Main Street
You are guaranteed to find something interesting when you visit us. We welcome you to bring your loved ones, friends and family to explore the incredible heritage of the Higgins family on Main Street. Who knows, you might even find one of your relatives in our archives!
Thanks for reading, we hope to see you soon.