Calling all leprechauns
Though this writer brings almost 100% Old World genetics to the table, sadly, that doesn’t include any ancestors from the Emerald Isle.
Still, St. Patrick’s Day is an irresistible day of fun and merrymaking. It is beloved by those in the New World who can trace their lineage back through Ellis Island and to Ireland.
The holiday has its origins with the Catholic Church and the sainthood of Patrick. History.com says, “St. Patrick, who lived during the 5th century, is the patron saint of Ireland and its national apostle. Born in Roman Britain, he was kidnapped and brought to Ireland as a slave at age 16. He later escaped but returned to Ireland and is credited with spreading Christianity among its people.”
An article from the National Portrait Gallery that was stumbled upon while researching provides some additional context: “In America, St. Patrick’s Day is recognized by shamrocks, leprechauns, parades and all things green. Irish soldiers – often indentured servants – in the British Army brought the holiday to America as early as 1762 when the first St. Patrick’s Day parade was held in New York City. As Irish immigration to America increased throughout the 19th and 20th centuries, the holiday evolved into the celebration of Irish pride that we observe today.”
Most of the iconography behind the holiday (leprechauns with their pots of gold, four-leaf clovers and more) descend from Irish myth and folklore that found its way to the New World.
Today, most will celebrate with a beer or two, perhaps a traditional dinner (corned beef and cabbage – or various iterations of meat pies, stews and other Irish pub fare). Maybe some Irish music will play, full of lilting melodies. And some will find a second of magic in stories of rainbows and lucky wishes.
Those with “skin in the game” will take a moment to reflect on roots and family ancestry and tradition. How important it all is.
If you’re interested in researching your Irish ancestral roots here in Upstate New York, there are a few resources: newyorkfamilyhistory.org; irish-us.org (Albany); and the Irish Cultural Center of the Mohawk Valley (Utica). There are also more general resources that can prove helpful like ancestry.com. Researching one’s genealogy can be a difficult, but rewarding journey to embark on.
If you’re interested in finding local parades or festivities, this article from I LOVE NY has some great details to share. Outside of the larger events like Utica’s parade, many smaller villages and towns will be hosting parties and other festivities. Check out Country Culture’s calendar of events on Facebook for more details.
Lá Fhéile Pádraig sona duit!
by Andy Haman
