There is a lot to celebrate in March, but let Irish American Heritage be at the top of your list! First declared in 1991 by the U.S. Congress, Irish American Heritage Month not only celebrates St. Patrick's Day and our love for corn beef and hash, but here in Boston, we also celebrate Irish Americans' rich history and influence. The Boston Public Library (BPL) holds many collections related to Irish American culture, from Irish authors to works in Gaelic. In this blog, find titles you can check out from the library, as well as movies, TV shows, and sites in and around Boston.
Irish American Items Available at the BPL
The BPL has a wide variety of books to choose from. Learn about the Easter Rising or read one of Sally Rooney's popular pieces of contemporary fiction. Take a look at the list below:
Author Patrick Radden Keefe takes us into the world of the I.R.A. Keefe writes about The Troubles, an ethno-nationalist conflict in Northern Ireland that lasted for about 30 years from the late 1960s to 1998, and how violent they could become, the people that could be recruited, and how one mother's disappearance changed the narrative. This title has been adapted to film and is now a Hulu limited series.
All Souls: A Family Story from Southie
Boston native Michael Patrick MacDonald recalls his upbringing in the prominent neighborhood of South Boston ("Southie") in this 1997 memoir. Readers who enjoy Boston history and even true crime, with Whitey Bulger in the mix, will love this title.
Returning to Ireland after their parents deaths years prior, the Flattery sisters must come together when Olwen, the oldest sister, goes missing. In this 2024 novel, author Caoilinn Hughes writes about a family's grief and how they confront problems while facing an uncertain future.
That Old Country Music: Stories
Kevin Barry, considered as one of Ireland's best modern-day writers, provides a collection of short stories which showcases his profound writing with wit and the true power of storytelling.
We Don't Know Ourselves: A Personal History of Modern Ireland
Throughout author Fintan O'Toole's life, the country he grew up in and loved has changed drastically as it went through the violence of the Troubles, the influence of the Catholic Church, and much more. In this 2022 nonfiction book, O'Toole reflects on his upbringing in Ireland as the country dealt with an identity crisis.
In this 2022 debut novel by Louise Kennedy, taking place in the city of Belfast in Northern Ireland, Cushla meets Michael, a married Protestant with IRA ties and much older than herself. Their affair becomes complicated as one of Cushla's student's parents is beaten. Sides must be chosen.
Time to Binge
With March just on the cusp of spring, we're still hunkering down indoors trying to stay warm. If you need a book break (it's okay if you do), sitting in front of the TV to find a new show to binge or a movie to indulge in isn't a bad option. Author James Joyce helped bring the first movie theater to Ireland in 1909, called Dublin's Volta Cinema. Many films have been shot and centered in Ireland during the 1900s, but it wasn't until the 1970s that local talent finally made their way to the big screen. Today, with TV shows such as Bad Sisters and Say Nothing, and films like The Banshees of Inisherin, it's more common than not to find beautiful shot pictures on our screens. Find some recommendations below:
Actor Daniel Day-Lewis won the Best Actor Academy Award for his role as Christy Brown, an Irishman born with cerebral palsy. Based on the memoir of the same name, this 1989 movie shows the love Brown's large Irish family and their community have for him.
Big names John Wayne and Maureen O'Hara star in this film directed by John Ford, who won Best Director at the 1953 Academy Awards. Wayne's Sean Thornton returns to Ireland after an accomplished boxing career. Taking place in the beautiful countryside, Thornton falls for O'Hara's Mary Kate Danaher.
Based on a true story, Philomena Lee was forced to give up her son after having him out of wedlock. With journalist Martin Sixsmith, they set off decades later to find the son she never got to know.
Before her passing in 2023, Irish singer Sinéad O'Connor lived a complicated life in the spotlight. From her memorable Saturday Night Live performance to her timeless song "Nothing Compares 2 U," this biographic film shares the life of the iconic singer/songwriter of the 1980s and 90s.
This 2009 children's fantasy movie shares all the beauty and magic Ireland has to offer. Young Brendan embarks on a quest to complete a magical book, guided by the fairy Aisling, while his home is threatened. His journey tests his courage and creativity, ultimately proving that enlightenment is the strongest defense against darkness.
Historical Hidden Gems
Boston saw a major increase in Irish immigration during the mid to late 1800s due to the Potato Famine. By 1855, about 50,000 Irish had settled in the city, making it the largest group of immigrants. Now, Boston and its surrounding towns are known for their love of their Irish heritage. With exciting St. Patrick's Day Parades in Southie and hole-in-the-wall famous pubs, Boston has paid tribute. Below, learn about different places in and around Boston that remind us of our rich history and connection with Irish heritage.
Boston Irish Famine Memorial
On the corner of Washington and School Street, not far from the Freedom Trail, artist Robert Shure's dedicated piece was placed in 1998, and was commissioned by the Boston Irish Famine Memorial Committee and the City of Boston. Two sculptures show two different families, one starved by the Famine, and the other having found new freedom in America. There are also plaques placed around the monument describing the Famine and others. The Boston Irish Famine Memorial is a part of the Irish Heritage Trail.
Irish Cultural Center
Located just south of Boston in the town of Canton, the Irish Cultural Center is a destination for those who wish to celebrate the culture. The center hosts many events such as live music and St. Patrick's Day celebrations, classes and workshops, and a rugby club.
J.J. Foley's Cafe
Boston's oldest Irish pub opened in 1909 between Chinatown and the South End. The popular spot is a destination for both tourists and locals, with a large food and beverage menu.
John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum
Located in North Dorchester, this library is dedicated to America's 35th President and is a testament to his life growing up in Brookline, in and around Boston, and the famous politician we all know today. The museum holds personal collections from JFK's life in and out of office, as well as a spot dedicated to his connection to Ireland. JFK spent four days in the country during a European tour; upon leaving, he said, "I want to thank you for a visit that has been one of the most moving experiences of my life."
McGonagle's Pub & Restaurant
Boston has a lot of restaurants to choose from, especially when it comes to the traditional Irish pub. The latest addition is McGonagle's, located at 367 Neponset Ave. in Dorchester. Owner Oran McGonagle has lived in Dorchester since 2007 and is behind many Boston pub staples such as The Dubliner and Emmet's. The two-floor restaurant and bar features a menu with classic Irish cuisine such as bangers and mash and Irish stew, and pours the perfect pint of Guinness.
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