About Lundy Foot's

Lundy Foot (1735–1805) was a Dublin-based tobacconist and snuff manufacturer, best known for producing a famous brand of snuff called “Blackguard Snuff.”

Born on 16 April 1735, he was the eldest surviving son of Jeffrey Foot and Jane Lundy. His maternal grandfather, James Lundy of Ringsend, was a well-known local figure who reportedly lived to the age of 106.

Foot built a successful snuff business that became widely known across the British Isles and even as far as New England in the 19th century.

The name “Blackguard Snuff” is said to have originated from a workplace incident where a batch of snuff was accidentally burned, prompting a furious response from an employer — but the result was a distinct, strong product that gained unexpected popularity.

In 1780, Lundy Foot set up his business in the building still associated with his legacy today. His success allowed him to acquire estates in four counties and earn a place on the Dublin City Council as an Alderman.

Lundy Foot wasn’t only a successful businessman — he was also known for his bravery. In 1769, he chased and caught a robber despite being shot. In 1796, he and his staff defended their shop against rioting soldiers from the Tyrone militia.

He became something of a Dublin character, with stories like that of John Philpot Curran, who jokingly gave Foot’s carriage the Latin motto “Quid rides” – a pun meaning both “Why do you laugh?” and a nod to his trade in “quid,” a slang term for tobacco.

Lundy Foot died on 2 January 1805, but his name and product lived on. His famous snuff, later known as “Irish High Dry Toast,” was still on sale as recently as 2005.