Will stretch three deep that day,
From Jehosephat to the Golden Gates—
Kelly and Burke and Shea.”
“Well, here’s thank God for the race and the sod!”
Said Kelly and Burke and Shea.
SOME EARLY CELEBRATIONS OF ST. PATRICK’S DAY IN NEW YORK CITY, 1762–1788.
BY HON. JOHN D. CRIMMINS.[[8]]
St. Patrick’s Day was celebrated in New York City as early as 1762. Of this fact we have a record. But the anniversary was, doubtless, observed here even at a much earlier period, if not by organization, then by groups of congenial friends. Irish residents of Boston, Mass., celebrated St. Patrick’s Day as far back as 1737, and, we have no doubt, the anniversary was as early recognized in New York.
Thomas Dongan, an Irish Roman Catholic, became governor of the Province of New York in 1683 and held the office until 1688. There is little doubt that during this period the anniversary of St. Patrick was, in some manner, observed by the governor and his friends and countrymen in these parts. It would be strange if this were not so, and we shall not be surprised if, one of these days, evidence confirmatory of this comes to light.
As a matter of established fact, however, we for the present date St. Patrick’s Day celebrations in New York City from 1762. In the New York Mercury, under date of March 15, 1762, we find the following notice: “The anniversary Feast of St. Patrick is to be celebrated on Wednesday the 17th instant, at the house of Mr. John Marshall, at Mount Pleasant, near the College; Gentlemen that please to attend will meet with the best Usage.” We find no further mention of the event, but the same was, undoubtedly, a complete success.