Mar 17

St. Patrick's Day

This tartan was designed for anyone of Irish descent or affiliation.  It features the green, white and orange of the Irish flag which are interpreted by the designer as: green is for the Republic of Ireland; orange is for Northern Ireland; and white is for peace between them. The additional black bands represent the many emigrants of Irish descent around the world.

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The Irish people were the first of many to immigrate to the U.S. in mass waves, including large groups of single young women between the ages of 16 and 24. Up until this point, free women who settled in the colonies mostly came after their husbands had already made the journey and could afford their trip, or were brought over to be married to an eligible colonist who paid for their journey. Many Irish fled their home country to escape unemployment and starvation during the Great Irish Famine.

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For more on the Irish immigrant experience in the United States, click the vintage postcard.

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Happy St. Patrick's Day!