A rousing rendition of Happy Birthday unintentionally helped transform the Royal Canal where it passes under Broome Bridge in Cabra, Dublin.
The singing brought the bridge's historical significance to the attention of Cabra Community Council, which then lobbied for the canal clean-up.
The bridge's connection with one of Ireland's greatest scientists, William Rowan Hamilton, was celebrated yesterday by 300 adults and children in this the 200th anniversary of Hamilton's birth.
Many participants arrived by barge and candles were blown out on a birthday cake in honour of the scientist. Refreshments were served and there was face painting and a science magic show for the children.
The bridge is where Hamilton made his world famous mathematical discovery - quaternions - while walking along the canal on October 16th, 1843.
Quaternions are a form of advanced algebra, used in a wide range of applications, from controlling computer graphics to tracking the trajectories of satellites.
The discovery was highlighted in 1958 when the former Taoiseach and later president, Eamon de Valera, dedicated a plaque to Hamilton, but this has faded over time.
Minister of State at the Department of An Taoiseach Noel Treacy, who presided over yesterday's event, described Hamilton as a "pioneer whose natural genius created scientific breakthroughs of lasting impact".