Hibernian Society of Savannah (Ga.)

The Hibernian Society of Savannah was founded March 17, 1812 and was incorporated through an act in the Georgia General Assembly on December 10, 1812. The objectives of the Society are, "the social harmony of its members; the maintenance of a filial attachment for the Mother Country; the air of distressed Irishmen and their descendants; the relief of indigent widows and orphans of Irishmen and their descendants; the cultivation of good-fellowship, and the practice of charity." (Constitution, 1977)

(cont.) Early membership in the Society was predicated upon the applicant being Irish. Later, applicants were required to be Irish, whole or in part with Irish blood in their veins. Membership in the Hibernian Society is limited to a certain number of men and as a result decades may elapse between application for membership and election to the Society.

(cont.) The leadership of the Society is by election of the membership and consists of President, Vice President, Treasurer, and Secretary. The president appoints members to various committees including finance and charity, nominations, and membership.

(cont.) A social organization, The Hibernian Society celebrates its founding with an anniversary dinner held every March 17. Honored guests to the dinner have included U.S. Presidents William Taft, Harry S. Truman and Jimmy Carter.

From the description of Hibernian Society of Savannah records, 1848-1998 / [Hibernian Society of Savannah]. (Georgia Historical Society). WorldCat record id: 43886778