Monsignor Lawrence E. Giblin Division One
Broome County, NY - September 2025

 IRISH HISTORY

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HOW BIG IS IRELAND?  Mayor Jared Kraham declared at our St. Patrick’s Day flag raising, “that never has an island so small had such a great impact on a country so big as the U.S.”.  So just how big is Ireland? Geographically, it is only about the size of Indiana. Population-wise, it is smaller than the city of New York.  Irish writer Cathy Jordan writes, “For a small island with a small population, we Irish getaround”. Thanks to widespread emigration in previous centuries, it is thought there are between 50 and 80 million Irish diaspora (dispersed people of Irish ancestry) across the world. 

   Irish population history is a sad one, but one that is making a noticeable change. Statistics from 1837 listed the Irish population at about 8.2 million. Then, from 1845 to 1849, the Great Famine hit. A fungus destroyed the potato crops, and little assistance was given by the ruling British. As a result of this mismanagement, over one million people died, and over one million emigrated elsewhere. The Irish population has never recovered.

   But the times they are a-changing. On August 17, The Irish Times reported that Ireland’s population grew by almost 90,000 in 2024. A rate 7 times higher than the European average. The Times reported that the increase was due to migration into Ireland, plus over 20,000 births. Irish officials say that the housing supply will have to catch up; however, the expanded labor force is generating tax revenues that can be invested in infrastructure. Projections show that the population will reach 5.5 million by 2026. The labor market also reports a record number of people are employed. These factors may lead to the fulfillment of a long-time dream. Many believe those factors and other considerations may lead to Irish reunification. Practical considerations such as demographic changes, an upsurge in voter enthusiasm, and increased economic opportunity may enhance the change. Additionally, many people in Northern Ireland wish to rejoin the European Union.

  How big is Ireland? Ireland's political influence in Europe is bigger than ever. Irish singers, actors, and movies are internationally acclaimed. Global tech companies, banks, and pharmaceutical manufacturers now have a huge presence in Ireland. And as much as ever, Irish parades and cultural events are conducted worldwide. Ireland, not big in population or land mass, but real big in spirit and impact. - Bill Burke  

Sources: Exactly How Big is Ireland Jordan 2.24, Irish History in 10 Min Livingston 2.24, The Irish Times R. McGreevy, 8.17.25.

MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION PROCESS

  Membership in the Ancient Order of Hibernians, Inc. is confined to men 16 years and older who are practicing Roman Catholics of Irish birth or descent and who are citizens of United States of America or who have declared their intentions to become citizens of the United States of America.

Associate memberships are also available to those who do not meet the aforementioned qualification.

It is a standing rule that Applications for Membership that languish without action for longer than 6 months are discarded.

Notifications for induction dates and times, through the Shamrock Degree, are sent to all applicants.
Those who have applied prior to this 6 month period, and are serious about joining the A.O.H., need to reapply for admission and make arrangements to attend a Shamrock Degree ceremony within the next six month.

Those interested in membership must stop into the Hall to submit an application as they must have an active member sponsor them and sign the form.

Please check the Bartender Schedule page here for days and times the hall is open.

AOH FINANCIAL NEWS

The 2025 AOH membership cards will be arriving shortly. We’d appreciate you paying your dues at your earliest convenience. The dues are $40.00. Drop off or mail your payment to: AOH Hall, 148 Main St., Binghamton, NY 13905. Attn: Mark Kadlecik. If you have an address change, please let us know. It’s the only way we can keep our records straight and ensure you’ll get all the mailings.

LAOH Juniors & LAOH County Board Notices

are now located on the LAOH page of this website. 

 Parade Committee.

Parade Day 2026 is March 7, 2026

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​ CORPORATION NEWS

Corporation News- Our club liquor license has been renewed,and our health department report was excellent. You are highly encouraged to use the hall for your private parties and events. Everyone should understand that we are privileged to have a hall. Many, if not most, AOH and LAOH divisions meet in church halls, restaurants, and even private homes. It takes money and effort to keep our hall open. We strive to provide a low-cost experience for our members while supporting our mission of encouraging friendship, unity, and Christian charity. This takes cooperation by all.  Our storage space is limited. Please be considerate when placing items in the storage area and when using the kitchen.

Corporation President Bill Burke.