Did you know Illinois has the seventh largest Irish population in the U.S.?
The rich history of Irish Heritage and culture in America began in the 18th century, but grew largely in the 1820s, when more than half a million Irish Immigrants first arrived, many coming to Illinois. Besides Chicago, the early 19th century wave of Irish immigrants settled largely in Randolph County, Gallatin County and Cairo. In the 1850s, the number of Irish in Illinois grew from around 20,000, to over 80,000.
Irish immigrants, eager to get to work throughout the state, were essential to the construction of the Illinois and Michigan canals and the Illinois Central Railroad. They also made up a large percentage of the work force in steel mills and lumberyards. During the Civil War, over 12,000 Irish fought for Illinois including two infantry units named the Irish Legion and Irish Brigade.
Irish immigrants in Illinois were quick to make their mark on history. Influential Irish Illinoisans include John P. Hopkins who became the first Irish mayor of Chicago in 1893, Catherine O’Leary, owner of the infamous cow accused of starting the Great Chicago Fire in 1871 and Chicago White Sox owner Charles Comiskey.
Today, over 1.3 million people of Irish descent live in Illinois, with Cook County holding the largest Irish population of any county in the United States. Created in 1976, the Irish American Heritage Center in Irving Park signifies the lasting impact Irish Illinoisans have made on the state. The Center hosts Irish cultural events open to the community and includes a library, small museum and art gallery. This March is Irish Heritage Month, and the Center will have more than 20 events open to the public including live music, dinners and of course, a St. Patrick’s Day Fest. Make sure to stop by this month to learn more about Irish Heritage in Illinois!
