In the early days of baseball, Irish Americans dominated the sport and helped shape it into America’s national pastime. Many young men, hardened by the strenuous labor of the few jobs available to them, found solace in the new game. Their physical strength and competitive drive made them natural stars, and they soon became key innovators. Among them, none left a greater mark on the game’s formative years than Michael “King” Kelly. Michael Joseph Kelly was born in Troy, New York, on December … Read More .... about King Kelly: The Irish American Who Transformed Baseball
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Detective Steven McDonald and the Irish American Tradition of Service
Few modern New York police officers better embodied the Irish American tradition of faith, service, and moral courage than NYPD Detective Steven … [Read More...] about Detective Steven McDonald and the Irish American Tradition of Service
2026 St Patrick’s Day message from AOH National PresidentSean Pender
Happy St. Patrick’s Day! I extend my warmest wishes to everyone as we celebrate this special day. St. Patrick's Day is not only a time to … [Read More...] about 2026 St Patrick’s Day message from AOH National PresidentSean Pender
Irish American Heritage Month: Kathleen McNulty, an Irish American “Hidden Figure”
Kathleen Rita McNulty was born in the village of Creeslough on February 12, 1921, the third of six children of Anne Nelis and James McNulty. Her … [Read More...] about Irish American Heritage Month: Kathleen McNulty, an Irish American “Hidden Figure”
Commodore John Barry: The Irish Father of the American Navy
When Americans think of the naval heroes of the American Revolution, the name usually comes to mind is John Paul Jones. Yet there was another … [Read More...] about Commodore John Barry: The Irish Father of the American Navy
The Chaplain’s Corner
Deputy National Chaplain Update – May 2025
Deputy National Chaplain Fr. Colm Mitchell I imagine by the time this issue of the Digest is sent out, we will be into the Easter season. As … [Read More...] about Deputy National Chaplain Update – May 2025
The Jubilee Year ‘Pilgrims of Hope’: A Reflection for the Ancient Order of Hibernians
The Jubilee Year theme, ‘Pilgrims of Hope,’ resonates profoundly with the Ancient Order of Hibernians (AOH). As members of this storied organization, we are called to reflect on our shared history, values, and … [Read More...] about The Jubilee Year ‘Pilgrims of Hope’: A Reflection for the Ancient Order of Hibernians