[Congressional Record Volume 158, Number 38 (Thursday, March 8, 2012)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E344]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 CELEBRATING THE HIBERNIAN SOCIETY OF SAVANNAH, GEORGIA'S BICENTENNIAL

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                           HON. JACK KINGSTON

                               of georgia

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, March 8, 2012

  Mr. KINGSTON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the bicentennial 
of The Hibernian Society of Savannah, Georgia.
  The Hibernian Society of Savannah originated in 1812 as a society of 
gentlemen to come to the aid of Irish immigrants in the area. One year 
later they held the first St. Patrick's Day celebration in Savannah at 
the Independent Presbyterian Church. In 1824, they invited all of the 
Irishmen of Savannah to join in on a parade which would become the 
first St. Patrick's Day parade in Savannah's history.
  Their role in the history of Savannah and its people has developed 
greatly over the years. They have been addressed in the past by notable 
speakers such as President Taft in 1912 and President Franklin D. 
Roosevelt by radio in 1937. President Truman addressed the body in 1952 
at their 150th Anniversary Dinner and President Carter addressed their 
Anniversary Dinner in 1978. Since its inception, these notable figures 
have recognized the actions and donations of the society for the 
greater good of the people of Savannah.
  The scope of their efforts evolved from just the Irish community to 
the community of Savannah as a whole. They are very active through The 
Hibernian Society of Savannah Foundation, Inc. in their charitable 
contributions to the community. These organizations they support 
include some local schools as well as the Empty Stocking Fund, the 
Inner City Night Shelter and the Salvation Army among others.
  A rich heritage and strong personal ties to the city and the 
community have ensured that the The Hibernian Society will continue to 
play a vital role for those in need in Savannah. What once started as a 
society of Irishmen helping Irish immigrants in need has transformed 
into a body whose positive impact can be seen everywhere around the 
City of Savannah.
  I commend The Hibernian Society of Savannah, Georgia for their 
contributions to the people of Savannah and would like to congratulate 
them on their bicentennial celebration and their rich and continued 
history in the area.

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