Irish History Sites in New York City

New York City has a rich Irish History. In many ways, Irish immigrants shaped New York City into what it is today. There are many places where you can learn more about Irish history in New York, as well as honor immigrants, and simply drink an historic pint of Guinness. Here are some Irish history sites to visit in New York City.

St. Patrick’s Cathedral

Any stroll down Fifth Avenue will likely pass the statuesque St. Patrick’s Cathedral. While St. Patrick’s Cathedral had its first dedication in 1879, to this day, St. Patrick’s Cathedral is still the largest neo-Gothic Cathedral in North America! While St. Patrick’s Cathedral may be grandiose, its backstory reveals the struggle of Irish immigrants coming to America.

The Irish were not originally welcomed in the United States. Legend has it ithat many advertisements for work in newspapers even state, “No Irish need apply.” Why was there an intense prejudice against Irish immigrants? A majority of these Irish immigrants were Catholic, and Americans feared Catholics. They believed Catholics would have greater allegiance to the Pope than to the president of the United States. But the Irish wanted to say, “We know we belong here in America. Not only do we belong here in America, but we contribute to society and build beautiful things.” They worked hard to raise money for St. Patrick’s Cathedral. They pooled their meager wages together, and even had fundraisers such as carnivals. Their combined efforts built the gorgeous St. Patrick’s Cathedral at 631 Fifth Avenue.

Today you can visit St. Patrick’s Cathedral, just a few blocks away from our Welcome to Times Square billboard.

Irish Hunger Memorial

One of the most heartbreaking memorials in all of New York City is the Irish Hunger Memorial. The majority of Irish immigrants entering America in the 19th Century were fleeing the Great Hunger. Sometimes the Great Irish Hunger is referred to as An Gorta Mor in Irish. Over 1 million starved to death between 1845 and 1852. The Irish Hunger Memorial, located at the corner of Vesey Street and North End Avenue at Battery Park City, pays tribute to those who lost their lives, and raises awareness about the Great Hunger. It was designed by Brian Tolles, and had grass, soil, and other vegetation from Ireland, and stones from every Irish County. If you visit the memorial, you can literally set foot on Irish soil without leaving Manhattan. You’ll also discover an authentic Irish cottage from Carradoogan at the Irish Hunger Memorial.

McSorley’s Old Ale House

McSorley’s Old Ale House might be one of the most quintessentially New York locations in the whole city. It has 172 years of history. Named for John McSorley, who was born in 1827 in Tyrone, Ireland, the ale house opened in 1854. It’s famous for serving just two drinks, pale ale and dark ale. Both come in half pints. To this day, McSorley’s is still family owned, and the best place to find your inner Irishman!

Want to celebrate your heritage? Do it out loud with our Welcome to Times Square billboard. You can rent space to share a message of your choice for as low as $150 a day!