    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George H. W. Bush (1991, Book I)]
    [March 7, 1991]
    [Pages 224-225]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Message on the Observance of St. Patrick's Day, 1991

    March 7, 1991

        I am delighted to send warm greetings to everyone celebrating St.
    Patrick's Day.
        Although the greatest wave of Irish emigration took place during the
    mid-19th century, the United States has enjoyed the contributions of
    Irish immigrants and their descendants since the beginning of the
    Colonial Era. Serving in our Nation's War for Independence and later
    helping to build its railroads, canals, and industries, Irish Americans
    have long demonstrated a capacity for hard work, as well as a strong
    penchant for full, spirited, and upright living. The American author and
    abolitionist, Lydia M. Child, once fondly observed: ``Not in vain is
    Ireland pouring itself all over the Earth . . . The Irish, with their
    glowing hearts and reverent credulity, are needed in this cold age of
    intellect and skepticism.''
        Today, those tender sentiments still ring true. Thus, St. Patrick's
    Day is more than a time of stirring memories and good cheer; it is also
    a time when we honor those sons and daughters
    of Ireland who, inspired by a passion for liberty and opportunity,
    crossed the Atlantic to build new lives on these shores. Indeed, on this
    day, Americans of every background join with Irish Americans

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    to celebrate their rich cultural heritage and our Nation's continued
    friendship with the people of the Emerald Isle.
        Barbara joins me in sending our best wishes to all for an enjoyable
    and memorable St. Patrick's Day. God bless you.

                                                                 George Bush

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