Professor Maureen Murphy developed the New York State Great Hunger Curriculum and is historian of The Hunger Memorial in New York City. She reflects on teaching the Irish Famine, the Hunger Memorial, and the role of women such as Asenath Nicolson in alleviating hunger and homelessness in the past and present. Please join us for a live online post-show discussion on … [Read more...] about Teaching the Great Hunger in the United States
Maureen Murphy
Roots: Murphy, O’Murchu, and O’Murphy
By Gregory Chestler, Contributor
October / November 2019
The Irish surname Murphy is a modern form of the ancient Irish name O’Murchadha, which means “descendant of sea warrior,” from the Gaelic muir, meaning “sea,” and cath, meaning “battle.” And, true to the clan’s moniker, the Murphys have traveled and battled far and wide. It’sthe most widespread surname in Ireland, and according to the 2010 census, it’s the 64th most common name … [Read more...] about Roots: Murphy, O’Murchu, and O’Murphy
Irish Hunger Memorial Renovations Completed
By Mary Gallagher, Editorial Assistant
June / July 2018
The Irish Hunger Memorial was re-opened in late July 2017 after a year-long, $5.3 million renovation. The structure had suffered extensive water infiltration, particularly from 2012’s Hurricane Sandy, which it had not been equipped to handle in its original state. The restoration cost $4.5 million more than the initial placement of the structure, which was unveiled to the … [Read more...] about Irish Hunger Memorial Renovations Completed
Irish Presidential Awards
By Irish America Staff
February / March 2016
Three Americans received Irish Presidential Distinguished Service Awards on December 3rd last year. Tom Moran is a hugely successful businessman and a well-respected humanitarian. Born on Staten Island to Irish American parents, he is the chairman of Mutual of America, and Concern Worldwide (U.S.) and a noted philanthropist when it comes to Irish causes. He has been an … [Read more...] about Irish Presidential Awards
Presidential Distinguished Service Awards 2015
By Adam Farley, Deputy Editor
October / November 2015
Actor Gabriel Byrne, businessman Tom Moran, solicitor Gareth Peirce, and author Mario Vargas Llosa are among the recipients of the Presidential Distinguished Service Awards for the Irish Abroad for 2015. The awards were announced in September by Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, Charlie Flanagan. “We owe a huge debt of gratitude to these remarkable individuals for what … [Read more...] about Presidential Distinguished Service Awards 2015