Book excerpt: This book traces the development of the four coastal villages – often referred to as ' the Four Sisters' – that make up the eastern part Dublin 4 from their foundation to the present day. Richly illustrated with modern and historic images, this work looks at the social, political, religious and economic history of Ringsend, Irishtown, Sandymount and Merrion, recalling the significant events, vanished industries and local characters.