New York's Top 10 Irish historical sites - SEE PHOTOS

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Ellis Island in Upper New York Bay

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 8. Old Saint Patrick's Cathedral

Construction on Old Saint Patrick’s Cathedral in lower Manhattan began in 1809 and by 1844 Archbishop John Hughes (known as Dagger John for his habit of inscribing a cross before his signature) had to call upon the Ancient Order of Hibernian’s to guard it against anti-Catholic bigots who threatened to burn it down.

In 1966, St. Patrick’s Old Cathedral was one of the first sites to be named a New York City landmark by the New York City Landmarks Commission. It remains a vital and historical part of the tale of the Irish in New York.

www.oldcathedral.org

9. Tammany Hall

The site of the New York Film Academy in Union Square is the seat of the famous – and often infamous – Tammany Hall. At one time it was the heart of the Democratic political in the city that played a major role in controlling New York City politics and helping immigrants (most notably the Irish) rise up in American politics from the 1790’s to the 1960’s.

http://www.nps.gov/archive/elro/glossary/tammany-hall.htm

10. McSorely’s Old Ale House

McSorley's legendary Irish bar first opened its doors in 1854 and women were not allowed in until 1970 when the National Organization for Women attorneys took their case to District Court and won. A new age was born, albeit kicking and screaming.

Famous people have drunk at McSorley’s, including Abraham Lincoln, Teddy Roosevelt, Boos Tweed and literary figures like Brendan Behan and Leroi Jones. Go to soak up the atmosphere, the sawdust floors, the homemade beer and centuries of Irish history.

www.mcsorleysnewyork.com

Photo gallery - NYC's best Irish historical sites

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