[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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