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 31, 1857, to Irish immigrants. When the Civil War broke out, his father enlisted in the Union Army. … [Read more...] about King Kelly: The Irish American Who Transformed 19th-Century Baseball
King Kelly: The Irish American Who Transformed 19th-Century Baseball
Courage, Sacrifice, and Loyalty: The Foley Family
At the young age of 32, Thomas Foley was already an 11-year decorated veteran firefighter of the FDNY and a legend. He was a larger than life individual who embraced life to the fullest and seemed to excel at everything he tried from powerlifting to skydiving. Having learned to ride horses on visits to his grandfather's farm, he even excelled as a competitor on the rodeo circuit. With boyish good looks, Thomas Foley was featured twice by People Magazine and appeared in the FDNY's "2003 Calendar of Heroes." At one awards ceremony where Thomas Foley was being honored, he responded to a … [Read more...] about Courage, Sacrifice, and Loyalty: The Foley Family
The Angel of Andersonville: The Selfless Heroism of Fr. Peter Whelan
Whelan was born in 1802 in Loughnageer, County Wexford. Little is known about his early life before he attended Birchfield College in Kilkenny, where he studied classics and mathematics. He later emigrated to America, answering God's call for priests to support the newly established Archdiocese of Charleston, where he was ordained in 1830. Over the next thirty years Fr. Whelan was a tireless shepherd of a flock which, as a result of the waves of Irish immigration caused by the Great Hunger, was growing exponentially. He helped build the first Catholic Church in Charlestown and also the … [Read more...] about The Angel of Andersonville: The Selfless Heroism of Fr. Peter Whelan
Thomas Francis Meagher and the Irish Brigade: The Patriot Who Fought for Two Nations
Thomas Francis Meagher (colorization by Hotpot.ai ) Thomas Francis Meagher's life is a testament to the resilience, ambition, and dedication of the Irish people, both in their homeland and in America. Born in Waterford in 1823, Meagher was raised in an affluent household and received a classical education at Clongowes Wood College and Stonyhurst College in England. Here, he developed his skills in rhetoric, history, and philosophy—an education that would shape his later role as a statesman and orator. Despite his privileged upbringing, he was drawn to the cause of Irish independence. A … [Read more...] about Thomas Francis Meagher and the Irish Brigade: The Patriot Who Fought for Two Nations
Dr. J.B. Murphy: The Irish American Surgeon Who Revolutionized Medicine
Dr. J.B. Murphy Dr. John B. Murphy, known throughout his life as "J.B.," was a renowned American surgeon and medical pioneer who made significant contributions to the field of medicine during his lifetime. He was born in a log cabin in Appleton, Wisconsin, on December 21, 1857. Murphy was the son of impoverished Irish immigrants Michael Murphy and Ann (née Grimes) Murphy, who had emigrated from Ireland during the Great Hunger. Murphy grew up in a large family with six siblings. His parents strongly emphasized education and encouraged their children to pursue academic and professional … [Read more...] about Dr. J.B. Murphy: The Irish American Surgeon Who Revolutionized Medicine
Ash Wednesday Reflection
Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of Lent. Whether we attend mass or a scripture service, our foreheads will be marked with ashes as a sign of repentance. Some might question us when they see the cross on our foreheads, “Did you remember to wash up this morning when you got up.” Ash Wednesday is a day to remember that we are God’s creation, made from the dust of the Earth. This season of Lent might I challenge each one of us, to see the beauty and awesomeness of God’s creation. This Ash Wednesday also reminds us that it is good to remember that we are God’s … [Read more...] about Ash Wednesday Reflection
Patrolman, Poet, and Hero; the Remarkable Life of Phillip Fitzpatrick
Philip Fitzpatrick was born in Aughavas, Co. Leitrim in 1892. Like so many of his generation, he emigrated to the United States and settled in New York City. He joined the NYPD in 1926 and was assigned to Mounted Squad 1 in Manhattan. He would serve with distinction for over 21 years as one of ‘New York’s Finest’ and would prove more than worthy of the title. However, in addition to protecting the streets of New York, Patrolman Fitzpatrick had another talent that few realized until many years after his death; he was a talented poet. Fitzpatrick came from a family having a … [Read more...] about Patrolman, Poet, and Hero; the Remarkable Life of Phillip Fitzpatrick
Veterans Affairs Report – Jan/Feb/Mar 2025
I hope that everyone had a Merry Christmas and that you all have a happy and safe New Year. I hope that we all checked on family members and others to make sure they were ok. The holidays are a notorious time for depression and the only way to help someone is to go and ask. It can be a hard thing to do, especially if they are close to you, but these things need to be done to protect not only that person, but the families involved as well. This is something that we often overlook as we talk about depression and suicide, the “others,” the family of the victim, their friends and acquaintances. … [Read more...] about Veterans Affairs Report – Jan/Feb/Mar 2025
Irish Way & Study Abroad Scholarships Report – Jan/Feb/Mar 2025
Is one of your children or grandchildren thinking of studying abroad in Ireland within the next year? If so, now is the time to apply to the school that they are interested in. The AOH National Board offers scholarships for high school or college students who plan to study in Ireland. Last spring the AOH National Board awarded four college students $1,500 scholarships for a semester of study, and one college student a $3,000 scholarship for a full year of study in Ireland. If you have a member of your family who wants to study at the graduate or undergraduate college level in Ireland, we … [Read more...] about Irish Way & Study Abroad Scholarships Report – Jan/Feb/Mar 2025
Rituals and Degrees Report – Jan/Feb/Mar 2025
2024 Major Degrees of the Order There were 15 exemplifications of the Major Degrees of the Order held during 2024. In these ceremonies, a total of 340 Brothers received their Major Degree. 2024 also saw a most successful Major Degree at the National Convention in Orlando where, for possibly the first time, a consolidated Major Degree team featuring volunteers from five of our nine MDTs performed the ceremony. Seven of our nine National Major Degree Teams saw action exemplifying Major Degree Ceremonies in 2024. 2025 Major Degree Program We look forward to another successful year with … [Read more...] about Rituals and Degrees Report – Jan/Feb/Mar 2025
Project Saint Patrick Report – Jan/Feb/Mar 2025
I want to thank all the Brothers who supported Project St. Patrick in 2024. The support was shown in many ways such as a donation for a prayer card, a completed Project St. Patrick donation form, or contact information for a Bishop or Vocations Director provided on the Division Diocese Form. All were a great contribution to our 2024 Appeal. We received 73 applications for a Project St. Patrick grant from across the country. I'm happy to report that all of the applicants will receive a Project St. Patrick grant in the amount of $500. Project St. Patrick is a joint effort between the AOH and … [Read more...] about Project Saint Patrick Report – Jan/Feb/Mar 2025
Pro Life Report Jan/Feb/Mar 2025
Dear beloved Brothers in Christ Jesus and St. Patrick, As we start a New Year, we ask God that our Pro-Life Committee continues to be productive and a source of encouragement, enthusiasm and excitement for 2025 and beyond. As many of you know, the Pro-Life Committee meets on Zoom every month, on the Monday or Tuesday ahead of the monthly Pro-Life newsletter. If you would like to join the committee, or you’re not receiving the Newsletter or Meeting Invites, please send me an email at lspittcmf@gmail.com and I’ll add you to the list. We did have a few disappointments last year, as I learned … [Read more...] about Pro Life Report Jan/Feb/Mar 2025
Political Education – Jan/Feb/Mar 2025
Brothers, the work of Political Education is not just the responsibility of the PEC chairs — it’s a duty shared by every member of the AOH. Advocacy and political engagement are fundamental to fulfilling our mission as Hibernians. Our faith, heritage, and the causes we champion depend on all of us actively making our voices heard. As Hibernians, we are called to defend our Irish heritage, promote Catholic values, and advocate for justice. Political decisions at all levels of government affect these priorities. Generations of Irish Americans have fought tirelessly for freedom, justice and … [Read more...] about Political Education – Jan/Feb/Mar 2025
Immigration Report – Jan/Feb/Mar 2025
President Sean Pender encourages nationally elected and appointed officers to engage with State, County and Division leadership. We will create opportunities for remote and in-person meetings with Immigration Chairs and members on key topics, including: USA and Ireland/ UK Travel requirements, Obtaining Irish Citizenship and Passports, Reciprocal Immigration and Driver’s License Legislation, Hiring/ assisting Irish immigrants, Accessing Irish Immigrant Centers & Irish Consulates, Addressing Visa Denial for U.S. Visa Applicants in Ireland, particularly North of Ireland … [Read more...] about Immigration Report – Jan/Feb/Mar 2025
Hibernian Hunger Project Report – Jan/Feb/Mar 2025
President Sean Pender has requested all AOH National Chairmen to meet quarterly with their counterparts on the AOH State Boards. The State and National Hibernian Hunger Project (HHP) Committee Chairmen met on December 9, and had an informative and productive meeting, exchanging ideas on various activities that have been used in their jurisdictions to combat hunger. Following the meeting, a survey was sent out to the State Chairmen to decide what night would be best night for the HHP Committee to meet for their quarterly meetings. As this Digest goes to press, we are still tallying the results … [Read more...] about Hibernian Hunger Project Report – Jan/Feb/Mar 2025
National Historians Report – Jan/Feb/Mar 2025
The Making of Bodenstown The mortal remains of Theobald Wolfe Tone were discreetly committed to the earth in the family plot at Bodenstown, County Kildare, on Wednesday, June 21, 1798. As few as two and no more than a dozen or so individuals were present at the burial, reflecting the order of Lord Castlereagh, Chief Secretary for Ireland, who had released the body on the “express condition that no assemblage of people shall be permitted and that it (the body) be interred in the most private manner.” Castlereagh went to his own grave two decades later, presumably thinking he had succeeded in … [Read more...] about National Historians Report – Jan/Feb/Mar 2025
Hibernians embrace Irish American Heritage Month
Irish American Heritage Month is not just a date on the calendar; it is a vital opportunity to honor our shared heritage, highlight the contributions of Irish Americans, and strengthen the Ancient Order of Hibernians. It is a time for us, as Hibernians, who do so much behind the scenes in our community, to step forward and ensure that our history and culture are recognized, respected and passed on to future generations. Every level of our organization — National, State, County, Division, and individual members — has a part to play in making this effort successful. This is not just about … [Read more...] about Hibernians embrace Irish American Heritage Month
National Vice President’s Report – Jan/Feb/March 2025
Resources Organizations are stronger when information flows in all directions as each of us benefits and learns from one another. I noted this in my most recent column as this Board, your National leaders, are interested in hearing from you about how we can best meet your needs. An important resource that is now available to State Chairs are meetings with National Chairs. Consistently held meetings, via Zoom, with National Chairs have been underway and these are opportunities for others to learn about specific subjects or issues. We hope any information or presentation is then shared … [Read more...] about National Vice President’s Report – Jan/Feb/March 2025
National Treasurer Report – Jan/Feb/Mar 2025
It is that time of year again. A time that can be a confusing time for new members and recently elected new leadership. A time when Divisions are collecting this year's dues and paying last year's assessments. It's all very simple if you remember to keep the money collected in the right pot. Thank you to the many Divisions that submitted their forms and assessments early. Per Capita assessments are critical to our Order. These funds along with our charitable efforts support the ongoing operations and humanitarian efforts of our Order. Just a few suggestions about dues collection. Set a … [Read more...] about National Treasurer Report – Jan/Feb/Mar 2025
National Secretary Report – Jan/Feb/Mar 2025
I wish you a safe and healthy New Year. In January 2025, we changed how we approve suspensions and resignations. Taken from the Constitution, Article XVIII, Section 13. Members: The Division President may suspend a member of any Division who fails to pay his dues, fines, or assessments for three months, and he shall be duly notified by the Financial Secretary of his indebtedness in writing and asked to appear at the next regular meeting to pay the same. On his failure to appear, the President of the Division shall appoint a committee of at least two members to personally contact the … [Read more...] about National Secretary Report – Jan/Feb/Mar 2025