Irish in Adams County

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

Irish may not be a word that comes to mind when thinking of Gettysburg and Adams County, but there are many examples as to why it should.

Irish descendants constitute one of the largest demographics in the area, and they have made their mark on a number of places in which the names are derived from the Irish. McSherrystown, Irishtown, Tyrone Township, and Straban Township are all Irish names.

In July, The Irish Heritage Foundation of Gettysburg holds it's annual Adams County Irish Festival at Gettysburg's Moose Park. The festival is a wonderful event filled with Irish music, dancing, food and vendors. The festival benefits the Children's Friendship Project for Northern Ireland, which promotes friendship between Catholic and Protestant teens in Northern Ireland. It is a really fun event which aids a great cause.

Another great Irish group which helps out the Gettysburg Soup Kitchen and the South Central Community Action Program's food pantry is the local division of the Ancient Order of Hibernians. This society promotes Irish culture and heritage while taking part in community service.

"If you're lucky enough to be Irish, then you're lucky enough"

For more information about the Irish in Adams County be sure to visit:

http://www.adamscountyirishfestival.com/
http://www.gettysburgaoh.com
http://www.irishtownroad.com