Lewis's Topographical Dictionary - Waterford City

The Waterford Institution, was founded in 1820, and consists of 100 proprietors of shares of £l0. 10. each who contribute one guinea, and of 90 subscribers who pay two guineas, annually. It is conducted by a committee, consisting of a president, vice-president, and seven members, with a secretary and treasurer; the weekly meetings, formerly held in, Lady-lane, are now held at the Chamber of Commerce, in King-street, where are an increasing library, a reading-room, and a small collection of minerals. 

The Literary and Scientific Society was formed in 1832, for the dissemination of knowledge by means of, and lectures and essays: this society possesses a good philosophical apparatus; and during the session, which usually commences in December and terminates in May, essays are read and discussed, at the stated meetings, and public lectures occasionally delivered by its members. A newspaper was published here so early as the year 1729, since which period several others have successively risen and declined; at present there are three in circulation.

The Agricultural Society for the promotion of improvement in agriculture, feeding of cattle, and agricultural implements, by the distribution of prizes among the farmers of the district, is liberally supported and has been of great benefit.

The Horticultural Society, under the patronage of the Marquess of Waterford, was founded in 1833, for promoting by fair and open competition the culture of every species of vegetable production; it comprehends the adjoining counties, and spring and summer shows are regularly held when prizes are awarded for the best specimens of fruits, vegetables and flowers.

The market-days for pigs and cattle are Monday and Thursday and fairs are held on May 4th, June 24th, and Oct 25th: the market-house is a commodious and well arranged building, erected on a plot of ground adjoining the river. There are branches of the Bank of Ireland, the Provincial Bank, and the National Bank.