Whilst browsing a bookstore situated in the bustling harbour metropolis of Savannah, Georgia, situated on America’s eastern seaboard, a helpful young attendant informed me of the city’s rich Irish heritage. Noticing my accent, she shared that she was of Irish descent and that the Irish community was substantial within the city.
The first formal celebration of St Patrick’s Day took place in 1824 and has since ascended to an essential city-wide event, earning itself public holiday status. She explained that at its peak, Savannah’s St Patrick’s Day parade was rivalled in scale and spectacle only by New York’s.
Upon my exploration of the city’s historic quarter, adorned with majestic oak trees veiled in cascades of Spanish moss and interspersed with bountiful parks, I discovered more about the Irish influence in this town. The original Irish contingent reached Savannah in 1734, at which time it was a nascent British colony established a year prior. These settlers journeyed from the Atlantic Ocean, travelling some 20 miles up the Savannah River to this town. It was noted for its strategic grid-like arrangement of expansive streets and multitude of parks.
These Irish immigrants were primarily Presbyterians hailing from Ulster, with at least nine becoming landowners. Many opted to start farming while others jumped into burgeoning business opportunities centred around the expanding port.
In later years, some set up the Hibernian Society, among the oldest cohorts of its type in the States, devoted to supporting newcomers from Ireland. This Society still has a presence in Savannah today.
St Patrick’s Day processions were initiated by the Society in 1813 at the Independent Presbyterian church. That tradition continued and evolved; by 1870, the processions transformed into a parade, complete with bands and a grand marshall.
As time passed, the Irish demographic in the city became predominantly Catholic. Even prior to the mass immigration wave during the Great Famine, several thousands were already trying to build a better life in the US, despite being impoverished, lacking education and possessing only rudimentary skills.
During the 1830s, Savannah became a hub for newcomers due to the Central of Georgia Railway construction project, attracting a plethora of workers, including many unskilled Irish. This massive venture demanded an enormous number of labour-force, often for strenuous work. Like their labouring counterparts, the Irish workers, who generally lived in overcrowded conditions near the historical Old Fort, faced strenuous labour, low wages, and overwork.
The Irish population in Savannah further increased with the influx of individuals escaping the famine back home. These desperate arrivals, largely impoverished and malnourished from the dreadful journey across the Atlantic, were often limited to menial work roles. The newcomers’ packed living situations stirred apprehensions about potential disease spread, including yellow fever and cholera. Additionally, their Catholic faith led to prejudice in a society and county with a significant Protestant influence on its religious and cultural environment.
Despite the challenges, they were motivated by a desire for self-improvement, placing a high value on education and progression. Their unwavering work ethic and commitment to whatever tasks they undertook earned them a reputation for diligence within the Savannah community. Every generation strove to improve their situation and gain recognition as respected members of society over their immediate ancestors.
Like other American cities, they soon became a dominant force in government services and utilities, such as the police and fire departments. Their influence also began to seep into the political landscape. A strong bond remained with their homeland and its liberation from British control.
The city honoured its Irish citizens by dedicating one of its parks to Robert Emmet and erecting a Celtic cross. Savannah’s St Patrick’s Day march, similar to other American cities, developed a unique Catholic flavour. This event acted as a symbol of how the Irish Catholic community had overcome adversity to make a significant contribution to American society.
In recent times, Savannah’s parade has evolved to become less Catholic and more embracing of diverse cultures, colours and genders, with increased participation from women. The event’s format remains largely unchanged every year, with heritage groups and societies from the city and state actively participating. A procession led by bands that includes representatives from the local police, fire service and military units is a common sight. Traditionally dressed bagpipers in saffron and green are invariably present, along with floats sponsored by Irish families.
Despite other US cities hosting larger St. Patrick’s Day parades in terms of sheer numbers of participants and spectators, Savannah’s parade, located in a sub-tropical setting, maintains a unique historic charm.