Episode 15: Books and Banners: The Irish Literary and Benevolent Association

Cleveland's Irish community was coming of age in the 1870s. Jobs in Cleveland were plentiful. People had time for leisure activities--for clubs. More and more clubs formed, making their presence known in the city's annual St. Patrick's Day Parade. Along with the Temperance Society, parish sodalities, benevolent societies and fraternal organizations like the Ancient Order of Hibernians began appearing. An organization that was unique to Cleveland came to prominence--the Irish Literary and Benevolent Association. In addition to providing assistance to members in need, the group built a large lending library, encouraging self-improvement, citizenship, voting, and support for the cause of Irish nationhood. All of these groups started meeting together to plan the annual St. Patrick's Day Parade--a symbol of communal pride.