Irish History

The Irish people have done much to advance culture around the world throughout the ages. This is especially true in the United States and here in the South. The State of South Carolina has a wealth of history that is directly attributable to the Irish people.

The Harp & Shamrock Division is proud to acknowledge the work of the Division Historian Frank Corden. Most of the history we are presenting here is a result of his tireless work. In a note to me Frank mentions that practically all of the Irish information in South Carolina relates to Charleston.

The newest additions to our site are regarding Bishop Patrick Lynch, Bishop of Charleston and Irish-American Charlestonians and the Civil War.

Of particular interest that Frank forwarded to share was a statement by Bishop John England, the first Catholic Bishop of the Carolinas and Georgia. It isn't clear to whom this statement or address was made nor in what form but it is rather interesting nonetheless.

"I am no renegade to Ireland; but I am now an American...Where upon your approach to the polls, any person address you as an Irishman, or Frenchman, or an Italian, or by any appellation but Carolinian or American, his language is distraint and offensive. He is either ignorant, or supposes you to be so, or has some sinister view.

There is a bribery of the affections. There is a bribery in reminding you of the bravery and the patriotism and the generosity of the Irish. And all this is the more insulting as the object of the adulation, or the familiarity, is too plain to be mistaken. I warn you of your solemn serious obligation, that in giving your vote, you recollect that you are an American! A Carolinian!"

Bishop John England

First Bishop of Charleston

When is the last time you heard anyone use the English language as beautifully as this? Or reminded you of the importance of your vote?