Irish in Wisconsin

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David G. Holmes

Learn about the rich history of Irish immigration, settlements, and cultural influences in Wisconsin—from the nineteenth century to today.

72 pages, 6 x 9, 21 b&w photos, 1 map
Paperback: $12.95 | ISBN: 978-0-87020-346-6
Ebook: $4.99 | ISBN: 978-0-87020-537-8
Publication Date: 7/23/2004

BUY

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Description

The Irish have a rich and long history in Wisconsin. We know theirs to have been the hands that helped build the nation’s canals and railroads, the transport for so many immigrant groups making their way to the newly formed state of Wisconsin in the mid-nineteenth century. Yet the stories of Irish people in Wisconsin and their role in the state’s history became almost invisible as time passed. Irish in Wisconsin brings those stories to light once again, recounting the nature of the Irish immigrant experience both in relation to other ethnic groups in the state and to the larger story of Irish immigration to the United States.

Shortly upon their arrival in Wisconsin, Irish immigrants quickly formed communities in Beloit, Fond du Lac, and Sturgeon Bay, as well as in rural Trempeauleau County. They worked at day labor, railroad construction, lumbering, fishing, and farming. Some of those early Irish communities have disappeared; others have experienced succeeding generations of Irish Americans settling in these same Wisconsin cities and small towns and influencing them with their old country charm.

In this overview history, David Holmes shows the impact of the Irish on Wisconsin’s early development and politics. He explores the Irish cultural contribution to the state and the current resurgence in Irish pride and identity. Irish in Wisconsin tells this story with solid historical analysis, first-hand accounts, and rare photographs.

Part of the People of Wisconsin series, this book illuminates the many ways that immigrants have shaped our state. Learn about the values and ideas the Irish people brought with them from Europe and explore their myriad contributions to the culture, economy, and politics of their new home.

Author Bio

David G. Holmes earned his doctorate in Irish history at the University of Wisconsin–Madison and studied law at the University of Pennsylvania. He is a native of Delaware, where he currently resides.