In 1907 Martin Geraty bought the
key to the door of what was then Joyce's of the Octagon in Wesport, depicted in
the photograph beloe taken around the turn of the Century. Mrs. Joyce
emigrated with her son to America and what is now Dunnings of the Octagon was
born.
Martin Geraty ran a grocery shop with a small bar trade. In the mid 40s his
youngest daughter, Aileen, took over and ran the business with her husband,
Paddy Dunning.
The present day owners, Pat and Mary Dunning, make the third generation, and
Dunnings is now probably the oldest family run business in Westport today. The
premises has recently been refurbished with great care, maintaining the original
character and history while updating to take the business forward in the new
millennium.
For a fully
comprehensive history of the house from its origins
click here.
