The Irish and The Erie

Per Historical Society’s Press Release:

“The Irish and The Erie

On Wednesday, April 19, 2023, at 6:00 pm, the Rome Historical Society will host, in its auditorium, a music program titled “The Irish and The Erie” with members of the group Craobh Dugan.

As construction of the Erie Canal commenced, the need for laborers increased beyond what was available locally. So, while travelling to England to study canal construction methods Canvass White of Whitestown, NY would come to meet a former prizefighter and canal contractor from Tipperary, Ireland named J.J. McShane who would then begin recruiting Irish for the effort. They brought their language, traditions, beliefs, and tales to life all along the canal and this presentation will explore the traditional Irish music that they played and sang.

Join us as members of Craobh Dugan pay tribute to the hardworking Irish who helped build the grand Erie Canal.

The Rome Historical Society is located at 200 Church Street, Rome, NY and is a non-profit organization under Section 501(c)(3) of the United States Internal Revenue Code. For more information, call (315) 336-5870, like them on Facebook, or visit their website at www.romehistoricalsociety.org.”