Celebrating Irish Heritage
A look at the history of St. Patrick's Day and how its been celebrated in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives
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Who is Saint Patrick?
St. Patrick lived during the 5th Century in Roman controlled Britain. Patrick is credited with bringing Christianity to Ireland. He is believed to have died on March 17, and celebrations have occurred on this day for centuries.
This church is where his remains are laid.
Doll:Keebler Leprechaun (1970-2000)The Strong National Museum of Play
History of St. Patrick's Day
As early as the 10th Century, people have been honoring St. Patrick on March 17 with various celebrations. The earliest parade, according to earliest known records, took place in St. Augustine, Florida in 1601.
The Start of U.S. Celebrations
Instead of having small parades in different neighborhoods, Irish immigrant communities combined forces and started holding large parades and celebrations in honor of St. Patrick.
Representative Patrick J. White by Pennsylvania House of RepresentativesPennsylvania House of Representatives Archives
Irish serving in the PA House
With the vast amounts of Irish immigrants in America, many began serving in political roles. The PA House of Representatives is no exception with over 100 Irish born individuals serving in the House.
Patrick J. White- pictured
Meeting with Irish Counsel (20th Century) by Democratic Caucus Legislative Information OfficePennsylvania House of Representatives Archives
Irish- American Relations
Over the years, many Irish dignitaries have visited the Pennsylvania House of Representatives. This is a member of the Irish Counsel who visited in 1985.
Poll on Irish Issues (20th Century) by Representative Mark CohenPennsylvania House of Representatives Archives
Constituent Opinions
In large diverse cities like Philadelphia, various cultures are represented. Many Members sent surveys to constituents about their opinions on current issues like that of Northern Ireland.
With so many Members having Irish backgrounds, an informal Irish Caucus was formed. These are examples of Member cards and letterhead from the Caucus.
For many years, Representative Tim Hennessey would have groups of Irish Dancers visit the Capitol for St. Patrick's Day.
Irish Dancers on the House Floor Irish Dancers on the House Floor (21st Century) by Republican Communications DepartmentPennsylvania House of Representatives Archives
Representative Hennessey also invited Irish Dance Groups to perform on the House Floor.
Irish Dancers on the House Floor Irish Dancers on the House Floor (21st Century) by Republican Communications DepartmentPennsylvania House of Representatives Archives
An Irish Dance Group performs in the chamber of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives.
House Journal Introduction (21st Century) by Pennsylvania House of RepresentativesPennsylvania House of Representatives Archives
Visitors from the Irish government being introduced on the House Floor as recent as 2019.
