Friendship, Unity, and Christian Charity

A Brief History of the Ancient Order of Hibernians

Imagine being told you were unable to own land because you were a Catholic.

Imagine being forbidden to attend worship services because you were a Catholic.

Imagine being denied any education at all because you were a Catholic.

Imagine your clergy being hanged for daring to celebrate Mass.

The Order evolved from a need in the early sixteen hundreds to protect the lives of priests who risked immediate death to keep the Catholic Faith alive in occupied Ireland after the reign of England's King Henry VIII. When England Implemented its dreaded Penal Laws in Ireland, various secret social societies were formed across the country. These groups worked to aid and comfort the people by whatever means available. Similarly, the Ancient Order of Hibernians in America was founded to protect the clergy, and church Property from the "Know Nothings" and their followers. At the same time the vast influx of Irish Immigrants fleeing famine issues in Ireland in the late 1840's, prompted a growth of various social societies in the USA - the largest of which was, and continues to be, the Ancient Order of Hibernians.

USA Flag embroidered with AOH
Silver Plume Division, Colorado

Active across the United States, The Order seeks to aid the newly arrived Irish, both socially and politically. The many Divisions and club facilities located throughout the U.S. traditionally have been among the first to welcome new Irish Americans. Here, the Irish culture—art, dance, music, and sports are fostered and preserved. The newcomers can meet some of “their own” and are introduced to the social atmosphere of the Irish-American community. The AOH has been at the political forefront for issues concerning the Irish, such as: immigration reform; economic incentives both here and in Ireland; the human rights issues addressed in the MacBride Legislation; right-to-life, and a peaceful and just solution to the issues that divide Ireland.

“Friendship, Unity, and Christian Charity”

Beannachtaí Dé agus Muire dhuit!

Please contact us to find out more about the AOH, or to find out how to become a member.

Read about the history of the AOH in Colorado here!