St Patrick’s Day celebration in Augusta have a long history dating back to the early 19th century when Irish Immigrants settled in the city and brought their traditions with them. The Irish-American Heritage Society was
formed in Augusta in 1978. The goal was to support the preservation and celebration of their Irish ancestry. Keeping family strong in faith and unity , preserving music, literature and Irish customs as well as the associated fellowship and goodwill around St Patrick’s Day has always been its foundation. As the Society has, grown, it has continued to educate the membership and the general public of Augusta with traditions, family values, mutual respect and community spirit that its founders so ardently embraced.
In 1978, a steering committee of eight men, including John Douglas, Philip Kelly, Jamie O’Connell, Joe Kelly, Philip Ward, Paul Thompson, John Walsh and Charlie Chesser was formed. They appointed a sub-committee of four ladies to carry out these plans.
The steering committee was very proud of their Irish Heritage and hopeful that some good things would come from their meetings for their children and the city of Augusta.
The 1978 St Patrick’s Day Parade included 15 units and many enthusiastic, flag waving families in downtown Augusta. They began their day with a celebration of Mass at the Most Holy Trinity Catholic Church and had their post parade celebration at the Town Tavern.
The 47th St Patrick’s Day will be celebrated on, Monday, March 17th with many of the founders’ children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Congratulations to the 2025 Grand Marshal Ray Brady, Lady of the year Mrs. Philomena Mooney, The Thomas Poteet Family as Family of the Year. As tradition holds, mass will be celebrated at the Most Holy Trinity Catholic Church, the parade will begin at 2pm followed by a post parade celebration.
We hope to see you there!
(Portions of this article are taken from minutes recorded on January 11, 1978 by Margaret M Holmes)
