The Padraic Pearse Center Speaker Series of the Irish American Club East Side held a Stories and Signatures event on Sunday March 30, 2025 that featured Karen Vuranch as Grace O'Malley. Grace O'Malley, known as Granuaile in Irish Folklore, was a 16th century Irish historical figure often referred to as "The Pirate Queen".
St. Patrick's Day Parade - Cosgrove Steps Ceremony
The 183rd St Patrick's Day Parade in Cleveland was held on Monday March 17, 2025. It began with a gathering of the honorees and dignitaries on the steps of the Cosgrove Center on Superior Ave. This included Cleveland Mayor Justin Bibb, Cleveland City Council President Blaine Griffin, Bishops Edward Malesic and Michael Woost and more.
The start of the Parade featured the Honorees, Guarantors and Public Officials. It also included units from the Cleveland Police and Fire Departments, Ancient Orders of Hibernians and more.
Cleveland's large Irish community has many masses on St. Patrick's Day. The largest are at St. Colman's on the West side and hosted by the West Side Irish American Club and at Saints Robert and William Church on the East side hosted by the Irish American Club East Side (IACES). This year we covered the East side Mass.
Bishop Edward Malesic leads the Recessional after Mass
4th annual WSIAC GOAT - Greatest Irish Weekend of All Time
The West Side Irish American Club in Cleveland hosted its 4th annual GOAT - Greatest Irish Weekend of All Time - from March 6 through March 9, 2025. There were performances, music, food and fun. On Sunday March 9, the Gerry Quinn Irish Radio Show broadcast live from the event (thanks to sponsorship from Ambassador Edward Crawford).
WSIAC President Dan Chambers talking on the Gerry Quinn radio show.
A great Irish breakfast was served and the honorees were introduced.
Let's see how you do with these Irish Trivia questions. Some are easy, some not so much. Answers at the bottom of the page. No peeking!
See you at the Parade on March 17, 2025.
Congratulations to the 2025 Parade Honorees
2024
Padraig Pearse Presentation by Sister Maureen Burke
The Padraic Pearse Center Speaker Series of the Irish American Club East Side held a Stories and Signatures event on Thursday November 7, 2024. It featured Sr. Maureen Burke speaking about Irish leader and revolutionary Padraig (Patrick in English) Pearse.
The hunger strike of 1981 was one of the most tragic events to occur in Irish history. Ten men died over a period of 217 days in the H-Blocks of Long Kesh (Maze) prison, protesting the denial of their basic human rights. They endured five years of intensified degradation and brutality at the hands of prison warders following the termination of Special Category Status (political status) in the prisons. After five years of attempting to attain their basic five demands from the British government, they engaged in the most extreme form of protest to achieve their objective: a hunger strike.
Judge Mentel gave a fascinating presentation at the Padraic Pearse center of the IACES about the events before, during and after the 1981 Hunger Strike which led to the death of Bobby Sands and 9 others. There was a lot of new information from documents and the Judge's own travels and personal conversations.
The first annual Shamrock Game was played at John Carroll University on Saturday October 12, 2024 between the Blue Streaks of John Carroll and the Capital Comets at Don Shula Stadium at Wasmer Field. Before the game there was a tailgate party which featured Irish food, Irish music from WUJC and craic sponsored by the Bluestone Hibernians and others.
Bluestone Hibernians
The day included performances by the Irish American Club East Side Pipe & Drums and before the game, Mary Agnes Kennedy sang the national anthem of Ireland and the US. Mark Owens, Honorary Consul General of Ireland, Ohio did the ceremonial coin toss.
Irish American Club East Side Pipe & Drums piping in the JCU football team
Gaelic Athletics (Gaelic Football, Hurling and Camogie) explained
We asked Vince from the Cleveland St. Pat's - St. Jarlath's Gaelic Athletic Association about the Gaelic Athletic Association (GAA) and the Cleveland area teams. He explained that the national sports of Ireland are Gaelic Football, Hurling and Camogie which is hurling for women. Cleveland St. Pat's - St. Jarlath's Gaelic Athletic Association offers Gaelic Football, Hurling & Camogie for all ages. In this video, Vince explained the games for those who might just be aware of American football.
1981 Irish Hunger Strike Presentation by Judge Michael C. Mentel
The hunger strike of 1981 was one of the most tragic events to occur in Irish history. Ten men died over a period of 217 days in the H-Blocks of Long Kesh (Maze) prison, protesting the denial of their basic human rights. They endured five years of intensified degradation and brutality at the hands of prison warders following the termination of Special Category Status (political status) in the prisons. After five years of attempting to attain their basic five demands from the British government, they engaged in the most extreme form of protest to achieve their objective: a hunger strike.
Judge Mentel gave a fascinating presentation at the Padraic Pearse center of the IACES about the events before, during and after the 1981 Hunger Strike which led to the death of Bobby Sands and 9 others. There was a lot of new information from documents and the Judge's own travels and personal conversations.
On September 28, 2014, a large crowd congregated at Battery Park in Cleveland for the unveiling of a statue of Johnny Kilbane by world-class sculptor Rowan Gillespie. 10 years later on September 15, 2024 another crowd gathered to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the statue.
Johnny Kilbane great grandson Kevin O'Toole and sculptor Rowan Gillespie
Mayo Society of Cleveland Heritage & Whiskey Event
The Mayo Society of Greater Cleveland was founded in 2004 by Gerry Quinn as a not-for-profit corporation to provide a forum for information and activities of interest to individuals of Irish descent particularly those with ancestral ties to County Mayo. They held a half-way-to-St-Patrick's-Day event at the Majestic Hall in Cleveland on Saturday September 14, 2024 titled Heritage & Whiskey.
Cleveland's Irish community was well-represented at One World Day in the Cleveland Cultural Gardens on August 25, 2024. They marched in the Parade of Flags, performed on stages and hosted music, dance and activities in the Irish Garden. One World Day has been the official event of the Cleveland Cultural Gardens Federation since 1946.
Irish Cultural Garden in Parade of Flags at One World Day
Gerry Quinn Irish Radio broadcasted live from the Garden.
Gerry Quinn show in the Irish Cultural Garden on One World Day
Crews of volunteers led by Dave McLaughlin and Peggy Bennett regularly gather to clean up and beautify the Irish Cultural Garden. Here is a picture of the crew on June 30, 2024 and a couple of nice shots showing how the Irish Garden is designed as a Celtic Cross.
Irish Cultural Garden Cleanup Crew
Irish Cultural Garden Celtic Cross
Irish American Archives Society Walks of Life 2024
The Walks of Life Award was instituted by the Irish American Archives Society in order to honor individuals of Irish descent who have made an extraordinary contribution to their community in their chosen "Walk of Life." Planning for the award began in 1996, and the first dinner took place in 1997. Distinguished recipients of the Walks of Life Award have included educators, civic leaders, labor leaders, clergy men and women, journalists, business leaders, health care professionals, members of the safety forces, and philanthropists.
The 2024 Honorees were toasted at a dinner reception at Windows on the River on May 16, 2024. The honorees were:
Thomas J. Coyne, Lawyer
Joyce Dever, Engineer
Marilyn Madigan, LAOH President
John T. O'Neill, O'Neill Healthcare CEO
Sr. Catherine Walsh, CSA
2024 IAAS Walks of Life honorees
Later in the evening the 2024 group was joined by some previous awardees.
What an impressive group! Congratulations to all.
Ambassador Edward F. Crawford inducted into the Cleveland International Hall of Fame
Since 2010, the Cleveland International Hall of Fame (CIHF) has inducted people who have made significant and lasting contributions to our multicultural society. Cleveland is home to people representing about 120 different ethnic groups. The CIHF exists not only to honor those special people but also to inspire a new generation of leaders to follow in their footsteps. Over 100 worthy candidates were nominated for the 2024 Class of the Cleveland International Hall of Fame.
Edward F. Crawford revitalized the Irish Cultural Garden by establishing the Irish Garden Club and recreating the famous Dublin fountain in Cleveland. He recently served as US Ambassador to Ireland. He was inducted at a sold out (500 people) event on April 23, 2024.
Ambassador Edward Crawford giving Hall of Fame acceptance speech
Ed Crawford was inducted into the Cleveland International Hall of Fame by Ireland's Ambassador to the US Geraldine Byrne Nason.
Ambassador Crawford receives award
from Ambassador Nason
St. Patrick's Day Parade - Cleveland, Ohio - March 17, 2024
The 182nd St Patrick's Day Parade in Cleveland was held on Sunday March 17, 2024. The honorees were Grand Marshal: Patrick T. Murphy, Irish Mother of the Year: Patricia Homan, Inside Co-Chair: David J. McLaughlin and Outside Co-Chair: Fr. Francis Walsh.
Grand Marshal Patrick Murphy starting the Parade
You can follow these links to see photos and videos of the entire Parade, split up by Division. And then a special People Page.
The West Side Irish American Club hosted their 3rd annual 2024 GOAT (Greatest Cleveland Irish Weekend of All Time) on March 7-10, 2024. There was a variety of Irish entertainment (bands, singers, pipers, dancers, etc.) and traditional food and drink. Of course the camaraderie was the best part.On Sunday March 10, the Gerry Quinn Irish Radio Show did a remote broadcast from the WSIAC during the serving of an Irish breakfast at the GOAT.
The Mayo Society of Greater Cleveland was founded in 2004 as a not-for-profit corporation to provide a forum for information and activities of interest to individuals of Irish descent particularly those with ancestral ties to County Mayo. The Society makes contributions to public charities in the United States that have a link to County Mayo in Ireland or to Ireland, or to public charities in Ireland, or for temporary emergency relief to indigent Irish nationals in the United States who are in urgent need of medical attention, are victims of crime, or victims of man-made or natural disasters.
Gerry Quinn
The founding (and only) president was Gerry Quinn who is stepping down after all those years of service.
The new president is Edward X. McNamara, who is the President & CEO of Armada Risk Partners, a Cleveland-based insurance brokerage with a satellite location in Detroit.
Edward McNamara
After the diagnosis of their oldest child, Maria, with a glioma brain tumor at the age of 6, Ed and his wife Megan co-founded and continue to lead the Prayers From Maria Foundation. Ed also continues his philanthropic work as President of The Lorain County Board of Health, and a member of the Irish American Charitable Foundation, and Cleveland Blue Coats. He is a Cleveland native who grew up in Rocky River as the son of a Cleveland Police Captain and attended Saint Ignatius High School and The Ohio State University.
On December 21, 1995, John O'Brien was elected President of the West Side Irish American Club and has served in that position since.
John O'Brien
John has stepped down and the new president is former VP Dan Chambers, President of Chambers Funeral Homes. Dan is a third generation funeral director and embalmer. He is the oldest child of the late Eileen (nee Gallagher) and Daniel B. Chambers Sr. He attended St. Edward and Fairview High School, Xavier University and graduated from Cincinnati College of Mortuary Science in 1991. Dan has been a life member of the West Side Irish American Club and a member of the Mayo Society of Cleveland.
Dan Chambers
Dan told us, "The West Side Irish American Club is certainly unique in many ways, as you are well aware, but especially in the stability in the leadership on the board. The legacy of John O’Brien, Sr. in his decades of leadership as president of the West Side Irish American Club was actually a continuation of the decades of leadership that Helen Malloy provided our Club before his tenure as president. Founded in 1931, our clubs stability at the position of president is probably the secret of our success.
Under John’s years as president and the many legendary officers and trustees that have served throughout the 90 plus year history, they all have played a role in helping create a cultural and social Irish American Club that can be compared to the best anywhere in the Unted States. It started with the big decision to move from the old Madison Ave. location to our current home in Olmsted Twp.
All the success still being fueled to this day with our amazing volunteers. Needless to say, the path that has been provided and the history we enjoy needs to be continued. This will not be easy, just as it was not easy for the decision-makers years ago. Like a lot of ethnic organizations, we will need to work together to continue making memories and enjoying and spreading our wonderful Irish culture.
The Claddagh ring symbolizes friendship, loyalty and love. We feel that is what you will find when you visit the West Side Irish American Club. Come out and join us for the laughter, the music and culture and maybe a pint or two.
You are all welcome to join us as we make new history and stories to carry on to the next generation of Irish Americans."
Gerry Quinn and John O'Brien are pioneering leaders who took their organizations and communities to elevated levels. Ed McNamara and Danny Chambers have large shoes to fill but we know they are up to the task. Thank you Gerry and John and congratulations and best wishes Ed and Dan.
2023
If the Irish were living in Bethlehem
'Twas Christmas Eve at St Mary's
And the pastor Father Gibb
Was watching Michael the sexton
as he carefully fixed the crib.
The sheep and the oxen were standing guard,
The straw was neatly piled
And Mary and Joseph were kneeling
Admiring their tender child.
The star that guided the Magi
Flooded the stable with light,
"Tis beautiful, Michael" the Pastor said
"It looks like that first Holy Night."
"Ah faith and I think it is terrible,"
The sexton replied with a frown
"The way our Savior had to be born
In that miserable pagan town."
"Sure there isn't an Irishman living
Much less is there one in the grave
From County Derry down to Kerry
That'd let Him be born in a cave."
"If the Irish were living in Bethlehem
Joseph need not have knocked
Sure, Mary and he could have walked right in
For our doors are never locked."
"And if they had come to my cottage
They'd have found the door full wide
"Cead mile failte" I'd say to them
"God bless ye and step inside."
"I'd shake up the old turf fire
And make them as warm as could be
And I'd have my wife, God rest her,
Make them a pot of tea."
"And if the soldiers of Herod
came after the baby, the fakes,
Me and the neighbors would rout them
Like Patrick drove out the snakes."
"Tis a pity Father I tell ye
Without a word of lie
That there wasn't an Irishman living
When Mary and Joseph passed by."
Nollaig shona dhuit!
Irish Ambassador welcomes 1st Honorary Consul
Mark Owens has been selected as the first-ever Irish Honorary Consul in Ohio. Mark is Team NEO VP of Marketing & Communications. He came here to study at John Carroll University’s Boler College of Business and became a dual Irish and American citizen in 2011.
Though Mark has been performing consular duties for many months there was an official ribbon cutting and welcoming reception on Friday November 10, 2023 attended by Geraldine Byrne Nason, Irish Ambassador to the U.S and members of the Irish and civic communities.
Ambassador Geraldine Byrne Nason toasting Mark Owens
Fun with Maps - Achill Island, County Mayo, Ireland
This episode of Fun with Maps is about the small island off the West coast of Ireland so familiar to Clevelanders - Achill in County Mayo. For a small island there is a lot of history there. In this episode we look at the famous Pirate Queen Grace O'Malley's Castle, Slievemore Mountain and the "Deserted Village", the Church and Holy Well of St. Dymphna, the Johnny Kilbane story, Charles Boycott, the Model Pilate Nancy Corrigan and the Martin McDonagh movie 'The Banshees of Inisherin'.
Achill is attached to the mainland by the Michael Davitt Bridge. John Reid and Yvonne Loftus Corcoran from the Michael Davitt Museum in County Mayo tell his story including how Michael Davitt and Charles Stewart Parnell formed the Land League at the end of the 19th century to abolish landlordism in Ireland and enable tenant farmers to own the land on which they worked. Watch the video below and see more Fun with Maps episodes.
20 year anniversary of the Twinning of Cleveland and Achill Island
In 2003 the city of Cleveland Ohio USA was twinned with Achill Island in County Mayo Ireland. A delegation from Cleveland travelled to Achill Island in September 2023 and a group from Achill Parish and County Mayo visited Cleveland in late October 2023 to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the agreement. There were many events to celebrate the occasion.
On October 28, 2023 a sold out gala celebration was held at the West Side Irish American Club. It began with Mass and then a reception and dinner. Then various speeches and recognitions followed by music. dancing and craic.
John Myers, Gerry Quinn, John O'Brien Sr. and Mayor Bibb
Cleveland Mayors #58 and 56 - Justin Bibb and Jane Campbell
Pat Chambers Civil War Collection and the Michael Davitt Museum in County Mayo presentation
On October 29, 2023 at the Irish American Club East Side in Cleveland many members from the delegation from Achill and Mayo spoke about Irish genealogy, the Michael Davitt Museum in County Mayo and the Pat Chambers Civil War Collection.
John Reid, Yvonne Corcoran-Loftus and Pat Chambers
20 year anniversary of the Twinning of Cleveland and Achill Island
A delegation from Achill Island and the broader County Mayo in Ireland came to Cleveland to celebrate the 20 year anniversary of the Twinning (Sister City) of Cleveland and Achill Island, Ireland.
In 2003, the late Steve Mulloy, a native of Keel on Achill Island who emigrated to Cleveland, spearheaded the idea to twin Cleveland and Achill. The then Mayor of Cleveland Jane Campbell traveled to Achill for the formal twinning ceremony.
Steve Mulloy's son Thomas accepting the Cleveland International Hall of Fame award in 2015 from former Mayor Jane Campbell
Links between Achill and Cleveland date back to the 19th century, when huge numbers of Achill residents emigrated to the US during the Great Hunger. Many Irish immigrants settled in a part of Cleveland known as "the Angle" and Cleveland remained a popular destination for Achill residents emigrating to the US throughout the 20th century.
In September this year, more than 30 people traveled to Achill from Cleveland to celebrate the arrangement. This included Mayor Justin Bibb and County Executive Chris Ronayne who traveled on the inaugural Aer Lingus flight direct from Cleveland to Dublin.
Gerry Quinn was awarded The Civic Reception, hosted by the Cathaoirleach of Mayo County Council, which marks the highest honour that the council can bestow upon its distinguished sons and daughters.
Gerry Quinn receiving award
Last week, about 30 people from Achill, County Mayo and other parts of Ireland visited Cleveland to celebrate the twinning on this side of the Atlantic. There were meetings, presentations, celebrations, events and of course, tours of some local Irish landmarks such as the Johnny Kilbane statue, the Famine Memorial in the Flats, the Irish Cultural Garden and even a preview of Irishtown Bend.
Twinning group in the Irish Cultural Garden
We will have a lot of photos and videos up soon.
Irish Taoiseach Bertie Ahern in Cleveland
Bertie Ahern served as Taoiseach (Prime Minister) of Ireland from 1997 to 2008. He was instrumental in crafting the Good Friday Agreement along with President Bill Clinton, Tony Blair and others.
He was in the region to accept the AOH Sean MacBride Humanitarian Award, which is granted to those who have dedicated themselves to human rights issues. It was sponsored by the Ancient Order of Hibernians and the Youngstown State University Department of History.
Before flying out, the taoiseach spent some time at a reception in Cleveland and we were invited to meet and greet this historical figure by John Myers.
Cleveland's Irish community was well-represented at One World Day in the Cleveland Cultural Gardens on August 27, 2023. They marched in the Parade of Flags, performed on stages and hosted music, dance and activities in the Irish Garden. One World Day has been the official event of the Cleveland Cultural Gardens Federation since 1946. Over 50,000 people visited the gardens on One World Day 2023. The Parade of Flags which had 1500 people from over 53 countries.
Irish Cultural Garden in Parade of Flags at One World Day
Gerry Quinn Irish Radio broadcasted live from the Garden and the band No Strangers Here performed live in the Irish Garden on the Quinn Irish Radio Show.
Gerry Quinn show in the Irish Cultural Garden on One World Day
State Representative Tom Patton receives the Freedom Award
The American Nationalities Movement held their annual Captive Nations event on Thursday July 20, 2023. ANM President Judge Ralph Rocky Perk introduced Ohio State Representative and proud Irishman Tom Patton and presented him with the Freedom Award.
Judge Ralph Perk Jr. and Tom Patton
Tom Patton has a long and distinguished career in public service including as Ohio State Senator and Representative. He has always been proud of, and true to, his Irish roots and heritage.
Tom Patton with some family members
He grew up as one of nine kids on the near west side of Cleveland and is still an active member of St. Colman's parish. Faith, family and community have always been his priorities.
Tom Patton accepts the Freedom Award
Watch the video below of Tom Patton receiving the Freedom Award.
Robert F. Kennedy 1964 St. Patrick's Day Speech reenacted
The American Nationalities Movement held their annual Captive Nations event on Thursday July 20, 2023. ANM President Judge Ralph Rocky Perk introduced speaker/actor Terry Smith who, without notes, reenacted the address by then Attorney General Robert F. Kennedy to the Friendly Sons of St. Patrick of Lackawanna County, Scranton, Pennsylvania on March 17, 1964. It was one of RFK's first speeches after John F. Kennedy's assassination in 1963 but he mainly spoke about the contributions of the Irish.
38th Cleveland Irish Cultural Festival
After 3 years, the Cleveland Irish Cultural Festival was back at the County fairgrounds on July 14-16-2023.
There were Pipe Bands, Irish dancers, Gaelic Sports, Craft Beers, Local Foods, Tir Na nOg Children's Area, Irish heritage exhibitions, Dogs of Ireland and more.
County Mayo display
Here is a quick video of the 32 Counties of Ireland display.
Ohio Celtic Festival Important Announcement
Pat Coyne at the 2022 Ohio Celtic Festival
"It is with a heavy heart that Pat Coyne would like to let all our loyal followers know that he has decided to cancel the Ohio Celtic Festival this year due to medical reasons. This is a very painful decision for him who has dedicated his time, health, blood, sweat and tears, making this Festival happen every year for the last 20+ years! But health is a priority! We apologize for this, but at the same time we thank you all from the bottom of our hearts! Please pray for Pat's health! We love and will miss you all! Sponsors, vendors and entertainers will be contacted. Thank you very much! - feeling pained."
My sister Debbie and I join everyone in praying for Pat's health which is much more important than the Festival.
If you weren't aware, the Ohio Celtic Festival presented by Our Heritage, Our Home Inc. promotes and preserves the Irish and Celtic culture and heritage through its music dance, food, costume and art to provide an affordable weekend family event with activities for all age groups to enjoy. The three day event offers a unique family-friendly festival experience that showcases authentic Irish and international cultural activities.
Back in 2012 it wasn't as easy to find ethnic performances as it is today so Pat let us create the ClevelandPeople.Com International Pavilion at the Celtic Festival. https://www.clevelandpeople.com/events/2012/laborday-festival.htm This was the first exposure for many to the performers we brought in including:
African Soul International Dance Troupe
Cleveland Junior Tamburitzans Croatian Performers
Csardas Hungarian Dancers
Dance Israeli
Demi Zhang Chinese Guzheng Musician
Island Flava Steel Drums
Kathak Traditional Indian Dance
Kyklonas Hellenic Dancers from St Demetrius Greek Church
Liberian Dancers
Mahima Venkatesh Indian Dance
Mame Daiko Japanese Taiko Drummers
Ohana Aloha Polynesian Dancers
Russian Men's Chorus
Scottish Highland Dance and Bagpipes
Sho Jo Ji Japanese Dancers
Svytorus Lithuanian Folk Group
Wind and Sand Middle Eastern Dancers
Yin Tang Chinese Dancers
Not what you might expect at an Irish Festival but Pat let us do it. Thanks Pat and get better soon.
Fleur and Pat Coyne
45th anniversary dinner/dance of the Murphy Irish Arts Center
The 45th anniversary dinner/dance of the Murphy Irish Arts Center was held at the Irish American Club East Side in Euclid, Ohio on Saturday June 17, 2023. The Murphy Irish Arts Center is dedicated to preserving Irish culture and the art of Irish Dance and to sharing their heritage with audiences everywhere.
It was founded in 1978 by Sheila Murphy Crawford. Sheila is a Certified Irish Dance Instructor and Adjudicator of An Commissum, the world governing organization of Irish Dance. Besides her commitments to Murphy Irish Arts Center, Sheila is very active in the Cleveland Irish Community, the Ancient Order of Hibernians, and the Irish Cultural Gardens.
Mayo Society of Greater Cleveland Annual Meeting and Tea
The Mayo Society of Greater Cleveland was founded in 2004 as a not-for-profit corporation to provide a forum for information and activities of interest to individuals of Irish descent particularly those with ancestral ties to County Mayo. Their annual meeting was held at John Carroll and featured remarks from Mark Owens, Ohio's first Irish Honorary Consul General.
Mark Owens, Joan Reali, Colleen Reali, Margaret Lynch, Colleen Day and Gerry Quinn
Murphy Irish Dancers and Custy and McNamara at the Mayo Society Tea
After the business part of the Mayo Society meeting the Murphy Irish Dancers and Custy and McNamara performed. The Murphy Irish Dancers were accompanied by Samantha McNamara on violin and Nikki Custy on guitar.
Cleveland based iIrish newsmagazine was selected as an Irish Echo Irish American Arts & Culture Champion and was presented with the award in a ceremony at The Statler Hotel in downtown Buffalo on April 28th.
The 2023 St. Patrick's Day Parade was held on Friday, March 17, 2023 beginning at East 18th St. and Superior Ave. in Downtown Cleveland. Before the Parade the honorees, family members and dignitaries gathered on the Cosgrove Center steps.
The 2023 Honorees are: Grand Marshal - Michael F. "Mickey" Coyne, Irish Mother of the Year - Bridget Conway, Inside Co-Chair - Maureen Cavanaugh and Outside Co-Chair - Kevin McDonough.
See photos and videos of the 2023 Cleveland St. Patrick's Day Parade by following the links below
Despite what you may see in the media, the main focus of St. Patrick's Day for many people and families is beginning the day with Mass. There are special festive Masses at St. Patrick's West Park and St. Patrick's on Bridge for example. The two largest celebrations are hosted by the West Side Irish American Club at St. Colman's Church on West 65th in Cleveland and the Irish American Club East Side at Sts. Robert and William in Euclid. Hundreds pack the churches to start the day and reflect on the true meaning of the day and their heritage and faith.
Bishop Edward Malesic was the main celebrant at the east side Mass. He was joined by about a dozen con-celebrant priests. The Church was standing room only.
Bruce Grieg piping in the Bishop and priests
3 Parade Grand Marshals Mickey Coyne, Gerry Quinn and Bill Homan
The West Side Irish American Club kicked off their 2023 GOAT (Greatest CLE Irish weekend of All Time) weekend with some Irish history. There were two interesting presentations. First was about the ambush Death of Michael Collins - 100th anniversary given by John O'Brien Jr.
John O'Brien Jr. showing the map of the ambush
The second was a presentation on The Good Friday Agreement (GFA) at 25 by John Myers.
John Myers showing the map of Ireland before 1921 and after 1922
Pat Dowd inducted into the 2023 Cleveland International Hall of Fame
Patricia Dowd is well known throughout the Irish American community for promoting the culture and her ongoing support for, and participation in, numerous functions and activities.
Pat is a charter member of the Irish American Club East Side. She has served as an officer for many years and served on numerous committees. She is also a member of the West Side Irish American Club. She was president of the Padraic Pearse Center which is the cultural arm of the Irish American Club East Side. The center’s purpose is to promote Irish heritage and culture through such activities as its library, Irish dance and Gaelic language lessons, various lectures, theatrical productions and educational programs. Pat was also a member of the Famine Memorial Committee. The Irish Famine Memorial monument, and surrounding area on the East bank of the Cuyahoga River in Cleveland’s Flats, is a memorial to the Great Hunger, the famine of the 1840’s.
Michael F. "Mickey" Coyne is the Grand Marshal of the 2023 St. Patrick's Day Parade in Cleveland. He hosted an event for about 400 friends, family and supporters at the Immaculate Conception Church hall in Willoughby.
Irish Mother of the Year Bridget Conway, Grand Marshal Mickey Coyne and Michelle Morgan
There was lots of food and drink and camaraderie as well as Irish entertainment including the Michael Crawley Band, Murphy Irish dancers and the 87th Cleveland Pipe Band.
We visited the legendary P.J. McIntyre's Irish Pub in Cleveland's Kamm's Corners neighborhood and ordered the all-day Irish Breakfast.
We asked Gerry Quinn to explain what was on the plate. This included beans, bangers (sausages), mushrooms, eggs (we chose over-easy), a form of potato - hash browns in this case, rashers, tomato, soda bread, black pudding and white pudding. And of course a cup of tea. He explains the Irish breakfast in this video clip.
The Irish American Club East Side celebrated their 45th Anniversary on January 21, 2023 at an event with over 400 attendees. Gerry Quinn was the first president of the Irish American Club East Side.
On January 9, 2023 Jack Murphy was announced as the Irish American Club East Side Member of the Year for 2023. Jack is a longtime member and volunteer and owner of Tradewinds Lounge on East 200th St. Congratulations Jack!
Jack Murphy - IACES Member of the Year
2022
Quinn Irish Radio Show featuring Irish Network USA, Aer Lingus, Cleveland Hopkins Airport and Ambassador Ed Crawford
On Sunday October 23, the studio of the Gerry Quinn Irish Radio Show was packed. Gerry had guests from Irish Network-USA, Aer Lingus, Cleveland Airport System and Ambassador Ed Crawford. They spoke about the Aer Lingus direct flights to Dublin, the IN-USA conference and the visit of Irish Ambassador Geraldine Byrne Nason.
Cathal McSweeney, Ambassador Ed Crawford, Cleveland airport's John Hogan, Steve Lenox and Mark Owens
Cleveland Airport's John T. Hogan talks about the new Dublin direct flight
Irish Network USA Conference in Cleveland
Irish Network USA is the national umbrella organization integrating the Irish Networks that exist in various cities across the United States. The mission of IN-USA is: to bolster business opportunities and economic development between the United States and Ireland; to support and encourage Irish Arts and Culture through film, literature, theater, dance and language; to encourage and promote the mission and expansion of Irish sports, throughout the United States; to support the efforts of local Irish organizations and associations; to serve as a conduit between newly arrived Irish immigrants and their communities in Member cities and states.
The 2022 annual conference was held in Cleveland, Ohio.
Ambassador Geraldine Byrne Nason at IN-USA Conference
Among many other things, the Ambassador spoke of the deep impact of Irish culture on the diaspora in Cleveland and the US. She reminded us that the landmark Good Friday Agreement was signed on 10 April 1998. 2023 will mark a quarter century since that important day. It's worth your time to watch the entire keynote.
Ambassadors Geraldine Byrne Nason reception at Cleveland City Hall
Geraldine Byrne Nason, Ireland's Ambassador to the US, was in town for the annual conference of Irish Network USA, the national umbrella organization integrating the Irish Networks that exist in various cities across the US. She was the guest of honor at a reception in the Rotunda of Cleveland City Hall.
Ambassador Geraldine Byrne Nason in Cleveland City Hall
Ambassadors Geraldine Byrne Nason and Ed Crawford in Irish Cultural Garden
Geraldine Byrne Nason, Ireland's Ambassador to the US, was in town for the annual conference of Irish Network USA, the national umbrella organization integrating the Irish Networks that exist in various cities across the United States. Before the reception she joined former US Ambassador to Ireland Ed Crawford and Irish Network Cleveland leader Mark Owens at the Irish Cultural Garden in Cleveland.
Ambassador Ed Crawford and Ambassador Geraldine Byrne Nason in Cleveland's Irish Cultural Garden
Mayo Society of Greater Cleveland Annual Mayo Ball
Each year the Mayo Society of Greater Cleveland honors a very special person as Mayo Person of the Year. In 2022 the honor went to Michael E. Gibbons, Senior Managing Director & Principal of investment bank Brown Gibbons Lang & Company and Chairman of the Board of Directors for Global M&A Partners Ltd, Dublin, Ireland.
The Cleveland Irish community demonstrated their proud heritage at One World Day in the Cleveland Cultural Gardens. One World Day has been the official event of the Cleveland Cultural Gardens Federation since 1946. Over 40,000 people visited the gardens on One World Day 2022.
The Irish community participated in the Parade of Flags and then hosted visitors to the Irish Cultural Garden.
Irish Cultural Garden in Parade of Flags
Gerry Quinn Irish Radio broadcast live from the Garden
The band No Strangers Here performed live in the Irish Garden on the Quinn Irish Radio Show.
The Murphy Irish Dancers marched in the Parade of Flags and then performed in the Irish Cultural Garden. Here is a quick video look.
Margaret Lynch inducted into Cleveland International Hall of Fame
Since 2010, the Cleveland International Hall of Fame (CIHF) has inducted people who have made significant and lasting contributions to our multicultural society. Cleveland is home to people representing about 120 different ethnic groups. The CIHF exists not only to honor those special people but also to inspire a new generation of leaders to follow in their footsteps.
Over 150 worthy candidates were nominated for both the 2020 and 2022 Classes of the Cleveland International Hall of Fame. The selection committee was advised by previously inducted members of the Cleveland International Hall of Fame.
Covid-19 forced the always sold out induction ceremonies to be cancelled in 2020 and 2021. We tried to induct the 2020 class virtually but it was not the same. So once we were able to gather together again, we included the 2020 class in the induction ceremony for the 2022 class on June 7, 2022. The event at Windows on the River was a sell out and the 2020 class finally got their moment in the spotlight.
On the evening of June 7, 2022 Margaret Lynch was finally honored in person and was inducted by Gerry Quinn.
Mossy Moran performed at the 2022 Ohio Celtic Festival in Painesville just east of Cleveland. He played this song about a man named Jake who had an extra leg. Jake the Peg was written by Rolf Harris who also wrote the classic Australian song "Tie Me Kangaroo Down, Sport".
Mead - the oldest alcohol known to man
We stopped at the Feisty Mead booth at the 2022 Ohio Celtic Festival in Painesville just east of Cleveland. Mead is a drink more similar to beer and wine than hard liquors. Variations can resemble cider or beer or, as in the case of Feisty Mead, more like wine. The alcohol content is a little over 13% and they have a variety of flavorings and spices. Brian from Feisty Mead told us that mead is the oldest alcohol known to man primarily because it's so easy to make.
Mayo Society of Greater Cleveland Annual Meeting and Tea
The Mayo Society of Greater Cleveland was founded in 2004 as a not-for-profit corporation to provide a forum for information and activities of interest to individuals of Irish descent particularly those with ancestral ties to County Mayo. The annual meeting was held at John Carroll University.
Mayo Society President Gerry Quinn announced that Mike Gibbons would be the 2022 Mayo Person of the Year at the Mayo Ball in September. Ambassador Ed Crawford also spoke.
The 180th annual St. Patrick's Day Parade, presented by the United Irish Societies of Greater Cleveland, stepped off at 1:04 p.m. at East 18th Street and Superior Avenue. More than 100 units participated in the parade, which was canceled in 2020 and 2021 because of the pandemic.
This year, the parade theme is Ireland's Scenic Coastlines and Linda Carney is executive director.
Father Thomas Mahoney will be honored as the Hibernian of the Year.
Thomas McManamon Jr. is the 2022 parade grand marshal. His father was one of the original organizers of the UIS in 1958 and served as its first executive director. He was parade grand marshal in 1977. This is the first time that a father and son will have been grand marshal of the Cleveland St. Patrick's Day Parade. We hear that Tom Scanlon who was chosen for Grand Marshal two years ago when the Parade was cancelled will be walking along with Tom McManamon this year.
Rita Lally is the 2022 Irish Mother of the Year.
Patricia Lavelle of North Olmsted is this year's parade inside co-chair and Eileen Mangan Stull is outside co-chair of the 2022 parade.
Father Phil Bernier, OFM Cap, administrator of St. Peter Parish, East 17th Street and Superior Avenue - adjacent to the parade's starting point - invites everyone to stop by the church for hot chocolate, coffee, tea and bakery items, which will be on sale for a nominal fee. Proceeds will benefit the parish ministry and church restoration fund. Visitors also are welcome to tour the historic church, which dates to 1857. Restrooms will be available.
Irish American Club East Side Members of the Year
Congratulations to the Irish American Club East Side 2022 Co-Members of the Year: Mary Jo Gurry and Michael Byrne
Mary Jo Gurry and Michael Byrne
Welcome to our new Irish Ambassador Shannon Corcoran
Ambassadors to ClevelandPeople.Com are individuals who are outstanding representatives of their culture and heritage. They have demonstrated great dedication to the advancement of their own community and to the greater good of honoring and celebrating other ethnic groups and communities to make our city and region more vibrant.
We are honored to have Shannon M. Corcoran join us as an Ambassador to the Irish community. Shannon will be joining Gerry Quinn on the team. Thanks to Regina Costello for serving as an Ambassador for several years.
Shannon Corcoran was born and raised in Ohio, and currently lives in the Westpark neighborhood of Cleveland. Shannon was raised in Cleveland's Irish community, starting as a competitive Irish Dancer with the Burke School of Irish Dance. Her family was a member of the West Side Irish American Club, where she attended music and dancing events. While still competing, she joined the Greater Cleveland Feis Society as a stage monitor, and still manages one of the championship stages today.
Shannon served as the Executive Director of the United Irish Societies (UIS) of Greater Cleveland from 2016-2019. The UIS sponsors and organizes the Cleveland St. Patrick's Day Parade, which is one of the city's largest single-day events and one of the city's oldest and most beloved traditions. Prior to becoming the organization's executive director, Shannon coordinated the parade's Line of March for nearly 20 years, including processing parade unit applications and assigning the marching order. In 2010, she was chosen as the Parade's Inside Co-Chair, and that year she started photographing the Parade, and activity she continues to this day.
Shannon is a member of the Ladies Ancient Order of Hibernians Our Lady of the Rosary Division, and is currently the Division's Secretary, a role she previously held along with that of treasurer. Shannon is an active supporter of the Murphy Irish Arts Center; one of Cleveland's Irish dancing school. She is also a member of the Irish American Club East Side.
2021
Irish Christmas Memories Christmas Past by Francis McGarry
Francis remembers his Grandfather John Francis and Christmas at Aunt Irene's house.
Cleveland's Irish community was well-represented at the 75th One World Day in the Cleveland Cultural Gardens on August 29, 2021. The Irish American East Side Pipe Band, Jack McDonough Fife and Drums and others marched in the Parade of Flags.
The Murphy Irish Dancers performed on the main stage in the Plaza and in the Irish Cultural Garden.
The Irish Cultural Garden had thousands of visitors who enjoyed music, dance and activities.
Singer James Kilbane stands by the gravestone of Ernest Ball in Lakeview Cemetery in Cleveland Ohio. Ernest Ball wrote the Irish classic "When Irish eyes are smiling". (photo by Gerry Quinn)
2020
St. Patrick's Day Honorees
Though the St. Patrick's Day Parade did not occur on the 17th due to the coronavirus, many of the honorees made the rounds at events before the virus struck.
Congratulations to these great people from our community. Thanks to Shannon Corcoran for the photos and IDs.
Irish Mothers of the Year (from left to right)
Joan Reali (2018), Bonnie McNally (2010), Eileen Kilroy (2019), Kathleen Sheehan (2011), Bridie Joyce (2014), Kathleen Mangan (2020), Vera Casey (2012), Kay Hough (2008), Mary McCluskey (2002), and Bridget McIntyre (2016)
Grand Marshals
Helen Malloy (2005), Walter "Mickey" McNally (2012), William Homan (2019), Thomas Scanlon (2020), and Sheila Murphy Crawford (2018)
Parade Co-Chairs
Front row: Maureen Mohney (2020 Inside Co-Chair), Chris Cooper (2020 Outside Co-Chair)
Second Row: Fr. Thomas Mahoney, Rasa Chambers, Bonnie McNally, Bridie Joyce, Teresa Kowalski, Linda Burke, Rita Lally, Murphy Crawford, Marilyn Madigan, Maire Leffel
Back Row: Margaret Lynch, Mary Alice Curran, Bill Chambers, Helen Malloy, Noreen Halley, James Kilbane, Jim McGuirk, Walter 'Mickey' McNally, Shannon Corcoran, John Myers
Hibernians of the Year
Front row: Fr. Francis Walsh, Robert Fitzgerald (2020)
Middle Row: Sheila Murphy Crawford, Patti Lavelle, Maire Manning, Marilyn Madigan
Back Row: James Kilbane, Ray McGann, Jim McGuirk
Some English words that come from Irish Gaelige
The Irish language, known as Gaelige in Irish, is a Celtic language. Today, it's estimated that there are nearly 75,000 daily Irish speakers in Ireland, with over 1.5 million learning it as a second language. It is an official language in Ireland, and if you have ever visited the country, you will see the language on road signs and government documents. While you may not know any Irish yourself outside of fáilte ("welcome") or sláinte ("cheers"), some of the English vocabulary and slang you use comes from or is influenced by the Irish language.
The Cleveland Cultural Gardens Federation hosted the 74th annual One World Day on August 25, 2019. Police estimates say that over 30,000 people visited the Gardens and attended One World Day. There was a lot of activity in the beautiful and historic Irish Cultural Garden.
Shannon Corcoran explains the Irish Cultural Garden to a visitor
No Strangers Here on One World Day
Lennon Fountain in Irish Cultural Garden
Murphy dancers volunteering in the Irish Garden on One World Day
A highlight of One World Day is the Parade of Flags where people in costumes of their heritage carry the flags. This year was undoubtedly the largest and most colorful in memory.
Marilyn Madigan inducted into Cleveland International Hall of Fame
Marilyn Madigan's involvement with the Irish Community started in 1969 when she started marching with the Ladies Drill Team of the West Side Irish American Club in the St. Patrick’s Day Parade. Her love of sports was enhanced by her participation in the Irish sport of Camogie. She was a player and President of the Emerald Camogie Team and served as the Registrar of the North American Camogie Board in the early 1980’s. Marilyn continues to be an active member of Cleveland’s Irish Community with memberships in Cleveland Comhaltas,Gaelic Society, Irish American Club East Side, Irish Northern Aid, Ladies Ancient Order of Hibernians, United Irish Societies, and the West Side Irish American Club. She was a member of the Irish Music Academy of Cleveland, Cleveland Feis and a dancer with the O’Leary Manning School of Irish Dance. Marilyn has served in many leadership positions: Board Member, Vice-President of the Irish Music Academy, Board Trustee of the West Side Irish American Club and Co Chair of the Ohio Irish Festival.
She has volunteered for many years at the Cleveland Irish Cultural Festival and with the Irish American Archives Society at the Annual Walks of Life event. She is currently a columnist with the Ohio Irish News, a Deputy Director of the United Irish Societies, Treasurer of Cleveland Comhaltas and the National Secretary of the Ladies Ancient Order of Hibernians.
The organization that Marilyn is most active with is the Ladies Ancient Order of Hibernians. She has been a member for 40 years serving in many offices including Division, County and State President. She was a founding member of the Ohio State Degree Team, and has served as Treasurer and Guardian. In 1988 when Cleveland hosted the National Convention, Marilyn served on the local committee. Marilyn served as National Fundraiser 2012-2014, National Irish Historian 2014-2016, National Treasurer 2016-2018 and is the current National Secretary. She was very proud and honored to be serving as National Irish Historian during the Centennial of the Easter Rising. Marilyn has been very diligent and enthusiastic in promoting the Women of 1916 in the cause of Irish Freedom speaking in Maryland, Michigan, Missouri, New York and Ohio
On April 16, 2019 Marilyn was inducted into the Cleveland International Hall of Fame by Ohio Irish American News Publisher John O’Brien Jr. .
John O’Brien Jr. inducts Marilyn Madigan
Marilyn Madigan gives her acceptance speech
Watch the video of Marilyn Madigan being inducted and her speech.
The 2019 St Patrick's Day Parade in Cleveland was the 177th in the city.
Before the Parade. Honorees and dignitaries gathered on the steps of the Cosgrove Center including Grand Marshall Bill Homan, Mother of the Year Eileen Kilroy, Inside Co-Chair Patti Maher Hanrahan and Outside Co-Chair Sr. Corita Ambro.
Grand Marshall Bill Homan blew the whistle to start the Parade.
Grand Marshall Bill Homan blew the whistle to begin the Parade
Sheila Murphy Crawford inducted into the 2018 Cleveland International Hall of Fame
Sheila Murphy Crawford was inducted into the 2018 Cleveland International Hall of Fame for her lifetime of work with the Murphy Irish Dancers, the Irish Cultural Garden, Grand Marshal of the St. Patrick’s Day Parade and much more. Sheila Murphy Crawford was inducted by Gerry Quinn.
International Cleveland Community Day at the Cleveland Museum of Art is a celebration of the rich diversity of our region’s multiethnic communities, featuring traditional music and dance performances, cultural displays, and ingallery experiences. The Irish community was represented with a performance by Murphy Irish Dancers.
The Cleveland Irish community was out in full force at the 73rd annual One World Day on the site of the Irish Cultural Garden. Members of the community marched in the annual Parade of Flags and later there was music, dancing, entertainment, food and fun as members of the Irish community shared their culture with thousands of visitors on One World Day.
Click on the white arrow to watch a short video.
Murphy Irish dancers in Irish Cultural Garden on One World Day
In 1978 Sheila Murphy made a trip to Ireland to take the teacher and adjudicator tests in order to open an Irish dance school with full recognition from An'Comisiun in Ireland. She passed both tests and started the Murphy Irish Arts Center in September of 1978. The Murphy Irish Arts Center 40th anniversary dinner dance was held July 21, 2018.
Cleveland’s Irish Cultural Festival is a non-profit, annual civic event, benefiting local and national charities while highlighting the many aspects of our Irish culture. They have donated more than $770,000.00 to local and national charities since their 1983 inception, due to your continued generous support. Attractions include: 24 performers on nine stages, a multitude of exhibits, and myriad kiosks representing some of the finest vendors in the United States. Cleveland’s Irish Cultural Festival seeks to preserve, memorialize and document Irish History and Traditions and was the vision of founder John O’Brien, Sr.
Uilleann pipes (national bagpipe of Ireland) explained and played
Michael Vignoles both makes and plays the Uilleann pipes, the characteristic national bagpipe of Ireland. He explained the pipes at the 36th annual Cleveland Irish Cultural Festival and then played a song.
The United Irish Societies of Greater Cleveland is a non-profit organization consisting of representatives from 27 Irish Organizations whose primary purpose is to organize the Cleveland's St. Patrick's Day Parade. Cleveland's Parade is Ohio's oldest and finest comprising approximately 10,000 participants in 125 units. The theme of the 2018 Parade (the 176th anniversary of the Parade in Cleveland) was Prominent Irish Pioneers of the 20th Century.
Click on the links below to see photos and videos from the Parade.
Grand Marshall Sheila Murphy Crawford blows the whistle to start the parade
Saint Patrick's Saltire or Saint Patrick's Cross is a red saltire (X-shaped cross) on a white field, used to represent the island of Ireland or Saint Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland. Bill Salmon carried the flag in the 2018 St Patrick's Day Parade in Cleveland and explained the meaning.
The Mayo Society of Greater Cleveland was founded in 2004 as a not-for-profit corporation to provide a forum for information and activities of interest to individuals of Irish descent particularly those with ancestral ties to County Mayo.
The 2017 Mayo Ball, honoring Chris Connor, former CEO of Sherwin Williams, was held on Saturday, October 7, 2017 at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum. This was the first time the Mayo Ball was held in the Rock Hall and guests were able to tour the entire Museum.
Alex Quinn, Tom Scanlon, Rita Quinn and Tara Quinn
Ceili Club teaches the Highland Fling Irish Dance
Members of the Cleveland Ceili Club performed the Highland Fling Irish dance at the 72nd annual One World Day in the Cleveland Cultural Gardens. The dancers then taught people from the audience in the Irish Cultural Garden how to do the dance.
How Irish Music can shape Jesuit Education - the Tin Whistle Priest
The World Union of Jesuit Alumni (WUJA), founded in 1956, holds an international Congress every four years to gather Jesuit friends and alumni-from as many as 50 countries representing a global network of Jesuit ministries-to build international networks and affirm Jesuit centric values for a greater good. From June 28-July 2, 2017, WUJA met for the first time ever in North America, at John Carroll University, in Cleveland.
Rev. Ryan Duns, S.J., also known as the Tin Whistle Priest led one of the presentations.
His topic was We need all the notes to play:
How Irish Music can shape Jesuit Education. Father Duns is a professional Irish musician (accordion at feis and tin whistle) and spoke about Irish music, Riverdance and Irish dance.
The United Irish Societies of Greater Cleveland is a non-profit organization consisting of representatives from 27 Irish Organizations whose primary purpose is to organize the Cleveland's St. Patrick's Day Parade. Cleveland's Parade is Ohio's oldest and finest comprising approximately 10,000 participants in 125 units.
The theme of the 2017 Parade was celebrating the 175th anniversary of the Parade in Cleveland.
The 2017 Parade Honorees were:
Grand Marshal Roger S. Weist
Irish Mother of the Year Angela Murphy
Co-Chairs John Patrick Lackey and Margaret Lynch
Grand Marshall Roger Weist blows the whistle to start the Parade
Division 1 included the Irish American Club East Side, Holy Name Societies, Red Hat Society, Plumbers Local 55, Murphy Irish Arts Center, Sea of Blue, Burning River Roller Girls, Cleveland 19 News, Cleveland Metroparks, St Ignatius HS Marching Band, Pipefitters Local 120, Alpacas, Cleveland Polonia, St Helen Unicycle Drill Team, The Corrigans, Elevator Constructors Local 17, Cleveland Public Library, Cleveland Asian Festival, Rolling Thunder POW/MIA, Ohio State Alumni, Cleveland Indians, St Brendan Parish and the Weed Man.
Division 2 included the West Side Irish American Club, Gaelic Football Club, Pioneers, St Martin de Porres band, Irish Wolfhounds, Painter Union, Krazy Kops, St Pat's Westpark, Cleveland Right to Life, Lake Metroparks, Red Cross, Notre Dame College Band, Cleveland State, Wizard World, O'Hare School of Irish Dance, University Circle, Cleveland Vegan Society, Mentor Fire Fighters, Magnificat HS, St Vincent-St Mary HS band, Local 3 Heat and Frost, Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, Boy Scouts, Thistledown, Jack Casino and Millwrights Local 1090.
Division 3 included the Leneghan Academy, St Malachi, Great Lakes Science Center, South Central HS Marching Band, Great Lakes Brew, Wickliffe Percussion, The Blue Gavel, Tom Patton, TNT Starlettes, Knights of Columbus, Ohio Rose of Tralee, Cleveland Ceili Club, St Ed's Trash Talkers, Cleveland Hiking Club, Wiremen's Shamrock Club, Irish Setter Club, Irish Northern Aid, Cathedral Latin, NDCL High School band, Academy Irish Dance and the Cleveland Rovers Rugby Club.
Ladies Ancient Order of Hibernians celebrate Saint Brigid
The Our Lady of the Rosary Division of the Ladies Ancient Order of Hibernians celebrated their patron Saint Brigid with a Mass and Breakfast. At the Breakfast, the 2017 Hibernian of the Year and the United Irish Societies honorees were introduced and recognized for their contributions. This was the first "official" event of the 2017 St. Patrick's Day season.
Top Row: Ron Hagan, Father Ols and Father Mahoney
MR: Maura Manning, Maura Leffel, Marilyn Madigan, Sheila Crawford Seated: Maggie Lynch, Angela Murphy and Roger Weist
Jack Kahl inducted into Cleveland International Hall of Fame
Jack Kahl was inducted into the 2016 Class of the Cleveland International Hall of Fame on the evening of April 26, 2016. Over 500 people attended the induction ceremony at the Marriott at Key Center. Jack Kahl was inducted by Dan Coughlin.
The Irish Cultural Garden and Irish community participated in the 71st One World Day on August 28, 2016. They began with the Parade of Flags which included the Irish American Club East Side Pipe and Drums as well as the Murphy Irish Dancers.
Irish American Club East Side Pipe & Drums
Irish in Parade of Flags
Throughout the day members of the Irish community of Cleveland hosted hundreds of visitors in the Irish Cultural Garden and shared Irish food, dance lessons and gave a look at Irish culture.
Cleveland Ceili Club
The band No Strangers Here consisting of Pat Hoynes, Bob Crawford and Larry Bachtel performed on the main stage.
Did you know that Mother Teresa studied in Ireland after leaving Albania and before leaving for India? Needing to learn English, the young postulant spent six weeks in Loreto Abbey in Dublin, Ireland.
The Albanian Cultural Garden hosted a canonization ceremony for Blessed Mother Teresa on Sunday September 4, 2016.
Bishop Roger Gries, O.S.B., Auxiliary Bishop Emeritus as well as Sister Judith Ann Karam, CSA, FACHE Congregational Leader, Sisters of Charity of Saint Augustine, and Sister Kathleen Ryan, administrator for the Cleveland Catholic Diocese, all spoke about the new saint and her influence on the world and their lives.
Sheila Crawford, Sister Ryan, Bishop Gries, Dona Brady,
Sister Karam and Adem Meta
The Mayo Society of Greater Cleveland was founded in 2004 as a not-for-profit corporation to provide a forum for information and activities of interest to individuals of Irish descent particularly those with ancestral ties to County Mayo. Their Annual Meeting and Tea was held Sunday June 12, 2016 at John Carroll University.
Cleveland Indian owner Paul Dolan was announced as the upcoming Mayo Person of the Year.
The United Irish Societies of Greater Cleveland is a non-profit organization consisting of representatives from 27 Irish Organizations whose primary purpose is to organize the Cleveland's St. Patrick's Day Parade. Cleveland's Parade is Ohio's oldest and finest comprising approximately 10,000 participants in 125 units.
The theme of the 2016 Parade was "Commemorating the 1916 Easter Rising and Ireland's Quest for Freedom"
The 2016 Parade Honorees were:
Grand Marshal John "Jack" Coyne
Irish Mother of the Year Bridget McIntyre
Co-Chairs Teresa Reilly Kowalski and John Myers
Grand Marshall Jack Coyne blew the whistle to officially start the 2016 Cleveland St. Patrick's Day Parade
The Mayo Society of Greater Cleveland was founded in 2004 as a not-for-profit corporation to provide a forum for information and activities of interest to individuals of Irish descent particularly those with ancestral ties to County Mayo.
Ohio Supreme Court Justice Terrence O'Donnell was honored as the 2015 Mayo Person of the Year.
Irish band Mary's Lane performed at the Irish American Club East Side Fall Festival. In this video they performed the Celtic Thunder song 'Raggle Taggle Gypsy'
This is a video of their song 'Step it up Mary.'
Celtic Cooking and Foods
The Celtic Caterer Chef Eric W. McBride demonstrated Celtic foods at the Ohio Celtic Festival at Classic Park in Eastlake, home to the Lake County Captains.
Most people think of Celtic people as those living in Ireland and Scotland, but the Celts also hail from Wales, the Isle of Man, Cornwall, Brittany in France, Galicia in Spain and Asturias.
Watch as the Celtic Caterer explains Celtic food, spices and cooking.
Marilyn Madigan, Irish Historian of the Ladies Ancient Order of Hibernians (Cleveland) told about the men and women who fought in Easter Week at the Pride of Erin in Cleveland Ohio at an Easter 1916 Commemoration on the 99th anniversary of the declaration of Irish independence and the armed rebellion to oppose English tyranny.
Marilyn Madigan
The event was organized by Ladies Ancient Order of Hibernians and Irish Northern Aid.
For the first time ever, the Irish American Club East Side and West Side Irish American Club Fife and Drum Corps units enthusiastically unite under the Jack McDonough Fife and Drum Corps flag for the annual Cleveland One World Day Parade.
Members as young as three learn the basics of the traditional Irish Fife and precision marching, and promote Irish culture year round through performances in and around the greater Cleveland area. With a wealth of new, young talent every St. Patrick's Day season, these units promise to be a staple of the Cleveland Irish American community for generations to come.
The Parade will step off around noon on Sunday August 23, 2015 near the British Garden on East Blvd.
The Murphy School of Irish Dance under the direction of Sheila Murphy Crawford performed traditional Irish dances at the 70th annual One World Day in the Cleveland Cultural Gardens. This performance was part of the annual Cleveland International Folk Festival.
Steve Mulloy inducted into Cleveland International Hall of Fame
When Stephen L. Mulloy arrived in Cleveland in May 1954 to start a new life thousands of miles from home, he was lucky enough to have three aunts and an uncle to welcome him to West Park. He also had a strong Irish community that helped him settle, get work and find his place in this city far different from the fishing villages of his native Achill Island, off the rugged coast of Ireland's County Mayo.
Steve would spend the rest of his life paying that hospitality forward to not only his fellow Irishmen and women, but to his entire adopted city as well.
Over 500 people attended the induction ceremony on April 29, 2015 at the Marriott at Key Center.
Murphy Irish Dancers win World Championship
Montreal, Canada - April 5, 2015
The Murphy Irish Senior Dancers spent Easter Week in Montreal, Canada competing with more than five thousand Irish dancers from all over the world. And they won! They are the World Champions!
A panel of seven judges - also from around the world - scored the dancers 475 out of 500 available points. They outscored their closest competitor by over 100 points. It is estimated that more than 20,000 people were spectators and had the opportunity to witness the competition.
A win like this does not come easy. Competition is stiff and the dancers need to practice constantly. Few athletes practice as much, and in this Superbowl of Irish Dancing it paid off for the Murphy Irish Senior Dancers.
The Slo-Ish bowling tournament started 4 years ago April 2012. Colleen Frank was on her way to a Slovenian meeting and thought there should be an event that both Irish and Slovenian groups did together and maybe grow the memberships of both groups. Bowling came to mind.
When she went to the SNPJ meeting they loved the idea. She also met with the board of the Irish Club and they loved the idea. Colleen and her Slovenian friend Gina Volpe have been organizing it ever since.
The groups involved are SNPJ Loyalites Lodge #158, Slovenian Society Home- Euclid, and the Irish American Club Eastside.
The Irish American Archives Society (IAAS) was founded in 1994 to support the collection and preservation of archival materials that document the history of the Irish American experience in northeast Ohio.
Hundreds of Cleveland's Irish and their friends came together on February 26, 2015 to honor three distinguished recipients with the Walks of Life Award. Congratulations to:
Terry Joyce, business manager of Building Laborers' Union Local 310, Linda Kane, senior vice president and treasurer of Forest City Enterprises Inc. and Patrick McLaughlin, Vietnam Veteran and former US Attorney for the Northern District of Ohio.
Congratulations also to the two non-Irish recipients of the new Thomas F. Campbell AwardJudge Raymond Pianka and Councilman Matt Zone.
Irish Dance and Fashion at Cleveland Multicultural Event
The Murphy Irish Dancers performed traditional Irish dances in soft and hard shoes at the International Community Council - Worldwide Intercultural Network's (ICC-WIN) 5th annual multicultural holiday celebration at the Global Center for Health Innovation in the Cleveland Convention Center in Cleveland Ohio.
The Plain Dealer published this Wizard of Id cartoon on October 20, 2014.
We wrote the Plain Dealer and our letter was not published in the print paper but was published on-line as follows:
It's 2014. Do I really have to complain about the racist stereotype in the Wizard of Id cartoon Oct. 20 where an inebriated Frankenstein monster has "the liver of an Irishman"? Certainly you know this portrayal is an offense to the hundreds of thousands of Irish Americans in Cleveland. If the cartoon featured another group and an equally offensive stereotype, would it have been printed? Why is it OK to perpetuate this stereotype and degrade the Irish this way?
We work with the 117 distinct ethnic communities in Northeast Ohio and feel our diversity is one of Cleveland's best attributes. To allow a slur like this to any of them is unacceptable. You owe an apology.
Dan Hanson, Debbie Hanson and Pat Hanson, Cleveland
The Hansons are with ClevelandPeople.Com.
Fr. Bob Begin honored on St. Colman Day
Fr. Caroli B. Shao, A.J. Pastor of St Colman Church in Cleveland wrote these remarks about St Colman Day and the honoring of Fr. Robert Begin.
"This year as we honor Fr. Bob, we recall his 20 years of commitment to the people of St. Colman Parish and to the entire neighborhood. During his 20 years as Sacramental Minister and Pastor, we saw St. Colman Parish growing tremendously in all aspects of parish life: spirituality, social justice, service, education and finances.
Fr. Bob never sat back to watch what would happen. He became a key player in the field, along with all of the parishioners who work so hard to ensure St. Colman's future. Thank you, Fr. Bob, for your gift of service to the people of St. Colman's, the neighborhood and the City of Cleveland."
2014 Mayo Ball September 26, 2014
Westin Hotel Downtown
The 10th Annual Mayo Society of Greater Cleveland Ball was held at The Westin Hotel in downtown Cleveland. It was a very special event in that the Mayo Society of Greater Cleveland (MSGC) hosted the 2014 World Convention of Mayo Societies in Cleveland that weekend.
The 2014 Mayo Person of the Year is the first to not have roots in Mayo. Honoree Ed Crawford's family is from Cork.
Tom Scanlon, Senator Rob Portman, Ed Crawford and Gerry Quinn
Last 4 Mayo Men of the Year Jim Boland, Ed Crawford, Bill Conway and Jack Kahl
Johnny Kilbane Statue Unveiling Battery Park - Cleveland Ohio September 28, 2014
Johnny Kilbane was a featherweight boxer who held the world featherweight title from 1912 to 1923, the longest period in the division's history. He was the second longest world title holder in boxing history, behind only Joe Louis.
He was also an Irish immigrant and Clevelander.
Hundreds congregated at Battery Park in Cleveland for the unveiling of a statue of Johnny Kilbane by world-class sculptor Rowan Gillespie.
Kevin O'Toole, great grandson of Johnny Kilbane, and other members of the O'Toole family unveiled the new statue of Johnny Kilbane in Cleveland's Battery Park. Father Jim O'Donnell then blessed the statue.
One Day Irish Fall Festival September 27, 2014
Irish American Club East Side
The Irish American Club East Side hosted the second annual One Day Irish Fall Festival inside their Euclid home. The daylong event featured bands, dancing, food and drink and shopping.
15th Annual Irish Famine Memorial Mass September 20, 2014
Since the dedication in 2000 hundreds of people come to the Memorial Site to remember and honor those who fled the famine and left Ireland to seek a better life in America. Sadly, the "coffin ships" kept many from reaching our shores. Many of our ancestors were among those brave people - some perished and some were able to make their way here. This Mass is a way of remembering the many Irish men, woman and children who sacrificed so much to give us a better life.
Now in its 3rd year, the Ohio Celtic Festival once again enjoyed great weather, great crowds and great entertainment.
Pat Coyne, Festival Founder, was thrilled with the lineup of Celtic musicians from Ireland, Canada, various places in the U.S. and of course, great local bands. Children and adults alike found lots to do and lots to eat and drink.
The Irish folk band No Strangers Here performed a Sing Irishmen Sing at a Global Cleveland event in the Cleveland Convention Center. No Strangers Here is made up of Pat Hoynes, Bob Crawford, Larry Bechtel and Tomme Hurley. All but Hurley were there for this event.
Thomas J. Scanlon inducted into Cleveland International Hall of Fame
Did you know that only 2 communities have had an inductee in every class of the Cleveland International Hall of Fame? Irish and Indians.
Lonnie McCauley was inducted posthumously in the inaugural class in 2010.
Gerry Quinn was inducted in 2011.
Fr. Jim O'Donnell was inducted in 2012.
Jack Coyne was inducted in 2013.
Thomas J. Scanlon continued the tradition when he was inducted into the 2014 class of the Cleveland International Hall of Fame in a dinner ceremony in the Grand Ballroom of the Marriott at Key Center on Monday May 12, 2014. Sam Miller inducted Tom.
The 2014 St. Patrick's Day Parade in Cleveland featured Parade Grand Marshall Andy Dever, Irish Mother of the Year Bridie Joyce and Co-Chairs John O'Brien Jr. and Mark Owens as well as visitors such as Ireland's Minister of Health James Reilly and Consul General Aidan Cronin.
Margaret and Andy Dever
One of the highlights of the Parade was the US Air Force Honor Guard from Washington DC.
US Air Force Honor Guard marching at Cleveland St Patrick's Day Parade
We have 16 pages of photos and videos from the Parade for those who couldn't attend or want to relive the grand event.
October 12, 2013
The Mayo Society of Greater Cleveland was founded in 2004 as a not-for-profit corporation to provide a forum for information and activities of interest to individuals of Irish descent particularly those with ancestral ties to County Mayo.
The 9th Annual Mayo Society of Greater Cleveland Ball was held at LaCentre Conference Center in Westlake and honored William (Bill) E. Conway as 2013 Mayo Person of the Year.
Kevin McGinty, Counselor Blackie Gavin and Consul-General Aidan Cronin
Twinning of Achill Island County Mayo Ireland and Cleveland
Ten year anniversary - October 10, 2013
The official twinning of Achill and Cleveland took place in 2003 as a result of members of the Achill Diaspora, most notably Steve Mulloy (RIP), making contact in 2001 with Terence Dever, CEO of CFÁA.
On October 10, 2013 a ceremony was held to recognize the 10 year anniversary of the twinning. The ceremony was held in Judge Patricia Gaughan's courtroom.
While you can't count on Cleveland weather in late September, you can count on the spirit of Cleveland's Irish. So the Irish American Club East Side hosted a One Day Irish Fall Festival inside their Euclid home.
The daylong event featured bands, dancing, food and drink and shopping.
Cleveland is Open For Business! That was the message delivered at the launch of the Cleveland Chapter of the Irish Business Network in the Rotunda of Cleveland City Hall.
The mission of the Irish Network Cleveland is to provide an inclusive environment that facilitates effective coordination and collaboration, on a global stage, of Irish and Irish Americans from all vocations, with the goal of strengthening the economic, social and cultural ties between the U.S. and Ireland; and communicating and coordinating with other, non Irish Network, groups, including the Irish and U.S. Governments and government bodies, long standing industry and philanthropic bodies, and any other groups as may be appropriate to facilitate a unified advancement for all.
Jerry Hallissey, Mayor Frank Jackson, Consul Nick Michael and Martin Sweeney
Preparation in the Irish Cultural Garden for One World Day
A clean-up crew led by Char Crowley and including Mr. Ed Crawford, Jim Van Gorder & son, Mike Conkey, Tom & Mary Kay Malone, Pat Nemecek and Ann Drescher got the Irish Cultural Garden ready for One World Day.
Ed Crawford
Tom & Mary Kay Malone, Pat Nemecek and Ann Drescher (Not in the photo Char Crowley, Mike Conkey who powerwashed the Fountain Plaza and Jim Van Gorder & son.)
Gothard Sisters in Cleveland
The Gothard Sisters are a dynamic all-female Irish music and dance group from the Pacific Northwest, USA. The three sisters perform and record new Celtic arrangements of well-known traditional tunes and popular songs, as well as their own original compositions from their 7 recorded studio albums.
In this video the Gothard Sisters explained the difference between an Irish jig and an Irish reel at a performance in Cleveland Ohio in 2013. Believe it or not, the words strawberry and rutabaga will tell you the difference.
Jack Coyne inducted into the Cleveland International Hall of Fame
John 'Jack' Coyne was inducted into the 2013 Class of the Cleveland International Hall of Fame in a dinner ceremony on Wednesday May 8, 2013. Jack joined a stellar class of inductees. He was inducted by Aidan Cronin, Consul General of Ireland who came in from Chicago for the event.
The Mayor of Tralee, Ireland, Johnnie Wall and Kingsville Ontario Mayor Nelson Santos visited Westlake because of their twin sister city relationships. They were on hand as the 2013 Northern Ohio Rose was announced.
2013 Northern Ohio Rose of Tralee Kelsey Higgins and 2012 Rose Ashley Speaker
The 2013 St. Patrick's Day Parade in Cleveland Ohio began on the steps of the Bishop Cosgrove Center on Superior. There were introductions of Cleveland Mayor Frank Jackson, Parade Grand Marshall Kevin McGinty, Irish Mother of the Year Una Ellis and Co-Chairs Daniel Chambers and Timothy Leahy.
Parade Grand Marshall Kevin McGinty blows whistle to start St Patrick's Day Parade
Chris Connor, Dan Coughlin, Sister Susan Durkin and Judge Richard McMonagle were honored at the annual event.
Chris Connnor and Meg McGarry
2012
Murphy Irish Dancers Ames Family Atrium Opening at Cleveland Museum of Art
October 28, 2012
The many different cultural performances were a highlight of the grand opening of the Ames Family Atrium in the Cleveland Museum of Art on Sunday October 28, 2012. This included a performance of the Murphy Irish Dancers.
Murphy Irish Dancers
Prime Minister of Ireland in Cleveland
The Taoiseach (Prime Minister) of Ireland Mr. Enda Kenny was in Cleveland on October 12 and 13, 2012. It was the first ever visit of a sitting Irish Prime Minister to Cleveland.
ClevelandPeople.Com covered the historic visit with photos and videos from many of the weekend's event.
Hundreds of Cleveland's Irish showed up at the beautiful Irish Cultural Garden to meet the Taoiseach. We have 7 pages of photos and videos of the visit! Who do you recognize?
Ed Crawford and Taoiseach Enda Kenny in Irish Cultural Garden
A highlight of the 2012 Ohio's Celtic and International Fest was the ClevelandPeople.Com International Pavilion. The ClevelandPeople.Com International Pavilion featured almost 20 different groups performing their culture's traditions in colorful native costumes. Enjoy the photos and video from their diverse and colorful performances.
In this video from the Festival, Linda Burke explains some aspects of Irish whiskey such as the aging, barrels used and even the spelling (Irish spells with an e, Scotch without it). She also talks about the first CA winery owned by an Irishman, James Concannon in 1883.
The Murphy Irish Dancers performed in the Irish Cultural Garden at the 65th annual One World Day in Cleveland.
Murphy Irish Dancers at One World Day
Mayo Society Tea - June 10, 2012
The Mayo Society of Greater Cleveland was founded in 2004 as a not-for-profit corporation to provide a forum for information and activities of interest to individuals of Irish descent particularly those with ancestral ties to County Mayo.
Father Jim O'Donnell was inducted into the Cleveland International Hall of Fame in a ceremony on Wednesday May 9, 2012. Jack Kahl gave the induction speech.
Johnny Kilbane was born to John and Mary (Gallagher) Kilbane in Cleveland, Ohio on April 9th, 1889. Kilbane held the world featherweight title from 1912 to 1923, the longest period in the division's history.
A crowd of almost 100 family and friends gathered at Kilbane's former house at 7413 Herman on Cleveland's West Side on March 16, 2012 for a special ceremony.
Kevin O'Toole, a relative of Johnny Kilbane said a few words at the dedication
Cleveland Irish Garden Club members in attendance Front row (l-r): Charlene Crowley, Ed Crawford, Jack Kahl and Sheila Murphy Crawford Back row: Martin Keane, Bill Summers, Martin Sweeney and Jim Boland
2011 Parade Honorees Parade Queen Caitlin Mackin, Co-Chair Sheila Murphy Crawford, Grand Marshall Gerry Quinn, Irish Mother of the Year Kathleen Sheehan and IACES member of the Year Pat Coyne
John Lennon and Ed Crawford in front of the new fountain
Crew at the Irish Cultural Garden preparing for One World Day.
Bob Crawford, Patty Nemecek, Sheila Murphy-Crawford, Candy Clemson(on wall),Laura Church, Jackie Church-Hopkins, Eileen Cooper-Reed, Mary Clare Cooper. Not pictured: Chris Cooper and Char Crowley
2010 St. Patrick's Day Parade Co-Chair Shannon Corcoran, Parade Executive Director Daniel M. Corcoran, IACES Member of the Year Patricia Homan, Parade Grand Marshall John Hayes, Irish Mother of the Year Bonnie McNally and Parade Co-Chair Fr. Tom Johns
The Irish American Archives Society (IAAS) was founded in 1994 to support the collection and preservation of archival materials that document the history of the Irish American experience in northeast Ohio. The primary goal of the IAAS has been to raise funds to build and maintain an Irish American Archives at the Western Reserve Historical Society (WRHS), the area's largest repository of materials for ethnic studies. A second goal of IAAS has been to support the development of exhibitions, books and other publications that draw on local collections to tell the stories of Irish immigrants.
The organization was first founded in 1994 by the late Professor Thomas F. Campbell of Cleveland State University. Since then, an impressive list of board members has run the organization. Donations of Irish photographs, documents and memorabilia that "illustrate the impact of the Irish American community in Northeast Ohio" are always welcome.
Celtic tribes arrived on the island between 600-150 B.C. Invasions by Norsemen that began in the late 8th century were finally ended when King Brian Boru defeated the Danes in 1014.
English invasions began in the 12th century and set off more than seven centuries of Anglo-Irish struggle marked by fierce rebellions and harsh repressions. A failed 1916 Easter Monday Rebellion touched off several years of guerrilla warfare that in 1921 resulted in independence from the UK for 26 southern counties; six northern (Ulster) counties remained part of the UK.
In 1949, Ireland withdrew from the British Commonwealth; it joined the European Community in 1973. Irish governments have sought the peaceful unification of Ireland and have cooperated with Britain against terrorist groups.
A peace settlement for Northern Ireland is gradually being implemented despite some difficulties. In 2006, the Irish and British governments developed and began to implement the St. Andrews Agreement, building on the Good Friday Agreement approved in 1998.
Lonnie McCauley inducted into Inaugural Class of
Cleveland International Hall of Fame.
Lonnie was named the first-ever woman Grand Marshall of Cleveland's St. Patrick's Day Parade in 2001. She was not able to march that year however. Lonnie died March 18, 2001.
As a past-president of the Padraic Pearse Center, Lonnie was instrumental in starting and maintaining the library that bears her name as well as the library at the West Side Irish American Club. Her passion was always Irish culture and tradition and she loved nothing better than to share that passion with others.
Lonnie is a fine example of someone wanting and willing to share the heritage they are so proud of with others. Lonnie joined a stellar cast of inductees in the inaugural class of the Cleveland International Hall of Fame.
Pat Dowd, President of the Padraic Pearse Center, inducted Lonnie McCauley
Tom McCauley accepted the award for his late wife Lonnie McCauley
If you know of a Cleveland Irish person who should be profiled, please let us know.
Read more about the Irish and other Ambassadors. If you are interested in being considered to be an official ClevelandPeople.com Ambassador to the Cleveland Irish community, please contact us.
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