An Irish-American Tradition

History of the Ancient Order of Hibernians

For more than four centuries, the Ancient Order of Hibernians has represented faith, Irish heritage, and service. From its origins in Ireland to its establishment in America in 1836, the Order has remained committed to protecting the Catholic faith, preserving Irish culture, and serving communities through Friendship, Unity, and Christian Charity.

Origins of the Ancient Order of Hibernians

The Ancient Order Of Hibernians is a Catholic, Irish American Fraternal Organization founded in New York City in May of 1836. The Order can trace its roots back to a parent organization of the same name which has existed in Ireland for over 300 years. While the organizations share the same common thread, the North American AOH is a separate and much larger organization.

The Order evolved from a need in the early sixteen hundreds to protect the lives of priests who risked immediate death to keep the Catholic Faith alive in occupied Ireland after the reign of England’s King Henry VIII. When England implemented its Penal Laws in Ireland, various secret social societies were formed throughout the country to aid and comfort the Irish people.

Similarly, the Ancient Order of Hibernians in America was founded on May 4, 1836, at St. James Church in New York City to protect the clergy and Church property from the “Know Nothings” and their followers. At the same time, the great influx of Irish immigrants fleeing famine in Ireland helped the Order grow into the largest Irish Catholic fraternal organization in the United States.

Growth in America

Today the AOH continues to welcome newly arrived Irish immigrants while preserving Irish culture through music, dance, sports, education, and community fellowship. Divisions across the country have long served as a place where Irish Americans can meet, celebrate their heritage, and become active within their communities.

The Order has also been active in promoting immigration reform, economic development, human rights, Right-to-Life issues, and a peaceful and just resolution to the issues affecting Ireland.

The AOH has continued to strengthen the bond between Ireland and Irish Americans through programs such as Project Children, Irish university scholarships, the Irish Way Program, and support for Irish Studies programs at American universities.

The Irish Origins of Hibernianism

The organization developed gradually among the Catholics of Ireland during a period of severe persecution. Many historians believe its origins can be traced to the mid-1500s when Prince Rory O’Moore and his followers organized groups known as “The Defenders” to protect priests, preserve the Catholic Faith, and defend Irish communities.

Following the death of Rory O’Moore, these organizations continued under various names, including the White Boys, Ribbon Men, Rapparees, and other Catholic societies that resisted religious persecution while preserving Irish identity.

Although historians cannot identify the exact date the Ancient Order of Hibernians formally adopted its present name in Ireland, historical correspondence confirms that in 1836 Irish members authorized the creation of branches in America and established the qualifications for membership.

Our Story Since 1946

History of St. Patrick’s Division 2

For eight decades, St. Patrick’s Division 2 has brought together generations of Hibernians in the Babylon community through Catholic faith, Irish heritage, fellowship and service.

The story of our Division begins in 1946 with Mike Rice, a native of Glenisland, County Mayo, Ireland. Rice came to New York in 1923 and was employed first by the Railway Express Agency and later by Metropolitan Life Insurance Company.

In 1928, he married Beatrice O’Neill, also of County Mayo. Before settling in Suffolk County, Rice was a member of AOH Division 6 in Astoria, Queens, for approximately ten years and also served as its president.

After moving to Deer Park, he helped establish St. Patrick’s Division 2 in 1946, beginning a tradition that continues today.

Building for the Future

The Hibernian Cultural Center

Over the following years, the original building at 27 Locust Avenue was enlarged and transformed into the Hibernian Cultural Center known by generations of members, families and guests throughout the Babylon community.

A major period of expansion and improvement was completed in 1986, helping establish Hibernian Hall as the center of Division life that it remains today.

From meetings and charitable projects to celebrations, Irish cultural activities and generations of friendships, 27 Locust Avenue became far more than simply a meeting place. It became the home of St. Patrick’s Division 2.

Preserving Our Past

The Division 2 History Project

As part of St. Patrick’s Division 2’s 80th Anniversary, we are working to preserve and expand the history of the Division through photographs, newsletters, journals, historical documents and the memories of our members.

Our historical collection will continue to grow as additional material is discovered, digitized and preserved for future generations of Hibernians.