Archives

About The Archives

The Society’s library houses more than 10,000 volumes, the most complete private collection of Irish and American Irish history and literature in the United States. The library features a temperature-controlled rare books room that holds another 1,000 volumes, and an unparalleled collection of newspapers and newsletters dating back to the late-18th century, and several early and mid-19th century newspapers, such as The Nation, The United Irishman, and the Dublin Penny Journal. Also housed in the library is the Society’s unique collection of letters from Patrick Pearse and Charles Stewart Parnell, the irreplaceable archives of other societies and organizations, and the personal papers of leading Irish Americans like Daniel F. Cohalan. The collection is complemented by works of art from such noted Irish artists as Nathaniel Hone, John Faulkener, George Russell (A.E.), John Butler Yeats, Aloysius O’Kelly, and Augustus St. Gaudens. The Society also holds an extensive collection of Irish music, including a taped interview with Brendan Behan that became his Confessions of a Rebel.

Archives Donations

The archives of the American Irish Historical Society have long been the heart of the institution. Ranging from early 20th century newspapers to hand-bound books and many specialized materials, the collection spreads the gap between Ireland and America. These archives, an important part of New York history, require care and dedication to be maintained for their usage in the community. By donating even a small amount to the archives, you can help provide access to this collection and preserve it for future use.

Donate Here

Contact our Archivists