Irish Famine Immigrants in Connecticut

March is Irish Heritage Month, inviting us to share Ireland's history. Our focus is on The Great Hunger, also known as The Irish Famine. Between 1845 and 1852, reliance on a single crop among poorer citizens led to mass starvation and immigration when the potato crop failed for seven consecutive years. Over a million people died from hunger, while another million were compelled to emigrate.  

Connecticut’s famine immigrants illustrate a broader mass migration of individuals who faced anti-Irish sentiments and worked hard to establish themselves as deserving and committed citizens of America. We invite you to join us to learn more about the Irish Famine immigrants in Connecticut.

Historical research and slideshow creation by Loretto Horrigan Leary.

Presenters:

John Foley - President, Ireland’s Great Hunger Museum of Fairfield. A native of County Kerry, John D. Foley is a staunch proponent of Irish culture and history, notable during his vice presidency at Fairfield’s Gaelic-American Club. His leadership qualities shine as Vice President of First Service Project Management in New York, where he expertly manages multifaceted projects. In Easton, Connecticut, he serves as Chairman of Planning and Zoning, contributing significantly to community development. His diverse expertise is invaluable to IGHMF, where he champions the preservation of Irish heritage.

Amy O’Shea – Vice President, Ireland’s Great Hunger Museum of Fairfield. A Long Island native with a profound connection to Ireland through her County Kerry ancestors, Amy O’Shea’s Irish upbringing included over a decade of Irish Step Dancing. Her dedication to Irish heritage is evident through her role in IGHMF and her professional journey as an attorney and small business owner in Fairfield. Her past service as a Director at the Gaelic-American Club and elected official in Fairfield’s RTM highlight her community involvement.