In this episode of the Savannah Irish Podcast, Dr. Howard Keeley from Georgia Southern University's Irish Studies program dives into the rich history of Irish immigration in Savannah.
The Savannah Irish Podcast is proudly supported by The Irish Pub Company - the ‘Official Partner of the Guinness Irish Pub Concept’ which means that they are rated as the best in the world at creating the most profitable and authentic Irish Hospitality Concepts. They design, manufacture and fit out your venue from start to finish.
Explore the initial waves of Irish settlers during the famine, the contributions of key figures like Henry Ellis, the establishment of neighborhoods, and the role of the Irish in politics, labor, and community building. Discover how the deeply intertwined Irish and Savannah histories have shaped the city, from early fraternal organizations like the Hibernian Society to significant civic contributions including alderman James McGuire's impact.
Stay tuned as the show promises further fascinating insights into the shared stories and legacies of Savannah's Irish community.
Learn more about the VOICES in this episode AND tap the links to support the Savannah Irish Festival:
MEET our SHOW SPONSOR - The Irish Pub Company
MEET our PRODUCTION CREW: Proudly produced by Dee Daniels Media
FIND A FAVORITE SPOT IN THIS EPISODE:
00:00 Introduction and Rebranding
00:23 Early Irish Immigration to Savannah
01:37 Oglethorpe and the Irish Influence
02:44 Henry Ellis: Georgia's Second Founder
08:14 The Queensboro Settlement
14:31 Scots-Irish and the Hibernian Society
17:35 The First St. Patrick's Day Parade
20:42 Upcoming Episodes and Conclusion
21:00 Building Savannah: Irish Contributions to Labor and Community
24:28 The Great Famine and Its Impact on Irish Immigration
25:59 The 1860 Census: A Snapshot of Irish Presence in Savannah
29:17 Irish Women in Savannah: Employment and Contributions
33:43 Irish Political Activism and Civic Leadership
35:28 James McGuire Jr.: A Story of Perseverance and Politics
41:23 The Legacy of Irish History in Savannah
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