Buffalo, once home to one of the largest Irish populations in the United States, has a rich yet often overlooked Irish heritage. In this talk, Tim Bohen explores the significant contributions of the Irish in Buffalo. From blasting through rock to build the Erie Canal to constructing harbors, railroads, and charitable institutions, the Irish transformed Buffalo from its earliest days. Within a generation, they moved from laboring in the trenches to leading in politics, labor, journalism, athletics, entertainment, and industry.
This presentation will spotlight nationally recognized Irish Buffalonians, including singer-songwriter Chauncey Olcott (“When Irish Eyes are Smiling”), television journalist Tim Russert, New York Governor Kathy Hochul, CIA founder General William “Wild Bill” Donovan, World War II hero C. Wade McClusky, Buffalo Bills quarterback Jim Kelly, and author F. Scott Fitzgerald. Highlights also include the 1866 Fenian Raid into Canada and the renowned James Joyce Collection at the University at Buffalo. Join us as we uncover the inspiring story of Buffalo’s Irish, whose impact resonates far beyond their community.
Timothy Bohen is the author of Against the Grain: The History of Buffalo's First Ward, and Emerald Thread: The Irish in New York. He has appeared on C-SPAN and in two PBS productions. Many of his Irish ancestors settled in Buffalo, some as early as 1849. Tim and his wife live in Buffalo's Elmwood Village.