New York Gaelic Society Records

Abstract

The New York Gaelic Society (formally, New York Gaelic Society, Inc., and also known as the Cumann na Gaeilge Nua-Eabhraic) was founded in 1878 and incorporated in 1903. The organization sought to promote and foster the study and practice of the language, literature, music, art, history, and cultures of Ireland, as well as the history of the Irish in America. A central tenet of the group's mission was to encourage the movement in Ireland for the revival of the Irish language. The New York Gaelic Society was part of the Council of Gaelic Societies, alongside a number of other groups focused on particular neighborhoods or topical areas. The New York Gaelic Society Records (dated 1886-1966) consists of materials created and collected by the organization documenting its mission, membership, and administrative operations. Materials include a photograph scrapbook with tickets and invitations to feis and céilí; meeting minutes; membership applications; and notes for Irish language classes. The collection originally included three binders of records which were disassembled when the materials were acquired. The binders include copies of An Spréach Gaelach,the magazine for the Irish Society; membership lists; elections information; photographs; correspondence (including correspondence with Pádraic Pearse's sister); copies of the Fiery Arrow; syllabi; meeting minutes, and bylaws for the organization. Materials also include various Irish language pedgagogical materials including copies of poems/songs in Irish, a copy of a theatrical play in Irish, and book lists. The collection documents not only the organization's activities, but the broader context of the Irish language movement in the 20th century, with particular emphasis on its manifestation amongst Irish Americans in the New York City area.The materials document a concerted effort amongst Irish Americans to learn and practice Irish language and cultural forms, such as dance and sports. The presence of ephemera and newsletters from other Irish and Irish American societies in the greater New York City area demonstrates strong cooperation amongst the groups, as well as an active and connected community.