Again this year restrictions on gatherings, the need to socially distance and the compulsory mask will limit full celebration of Irish American Heritage Month. There’ll be no parades or festivals. However, a collaboration with the Central Rappahannock Regional Library will assure IAHM is properly announced and responsibly celebrated. The CRRL website feature information on Irish/Irish American contributions to the United States over the past nearly 300 years. (https://www.librarypoint.org/blogs/post/irish-american-history/). You’ll also will IAHM information on websites of the Smithsonian Institution, the Library of Congress, the National Archives, and the Ancient Order of Hibernians (www.aoh.com). The CRRL website will link to Dúisigh Éire! Awaken Ireland! This Festival will connect the global Irish family to mark Ireland’s national day through celebration of song and story, laughter and tears, exploring the unique ties that bind the Irish worldwide diaspora (about 36 million Americans claim Irish ancestry). Awaken Ireland begins March 12 and will run over six great virtual days and nights. It is accessible globally (St. Patrick’s Festival TV) .
But wait, there’s more! During IAHM Fredericksburg’s Colonial Tavern – Home to the Irish Brigade – will display Hibernian materials depicting the history of Ireland and the social evolution of the Irish in the U.S.A. Find your name on the map of Ireland an begin your genealogical journey to learn more about your Irish heritage. The General Thomas F. Meagher Division, your local AOH division will kick off the 13th Annual Trip for Two to Ireland raffle on March 20th at the Tavern. The winning ticket will be drawn on September 18th.
