Ancient Order of Hibernians

The Ancient Order of Hibernians is a Catholic, Irish American Fraternal Organization founded in New York City May 4th,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. However, while the organizations share a common thread, the North American A.O.H. 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 dreaded Penal Laws in Ireland, various secret social societies were formed across the country. These groups worked to aid and comfort the people by whatever means available. Similarly, the Ancient Order of Hibernians in America was founded May 4th, 1836 at New York's St. James Church, to protect the clergy, and Church property from the "Know Nothings" and their followers. At the same time the vast influx of Irish Immigrants fleeing famine issues in Ireland in the late 1840's, prompted a growth of various social societies in the USA - the largest of which was, and continues to be, the Ancient Order of Hibernians.

Active across the United States, The Order seeks to aid the newly arrived Irish, both socially, politically. The many Divisions and club facilities located throughout the U.S. traditionally have been among the first to welcome new Irish Americans. Here, the Irish culture - art, dance, music, and sports are fostered and preserved. The newcomers can meet some of "their own" and are introduced to the social atmosphere of the Irish-American community. The AOH has been at the political forefront for issues concerning the Irish, such as; Immigration Reform; economic Incentives both here and in Ireland; the human rights issues addressed in the MacBride Legislation; Right-To-Life; and a peaceful and just solution to the issues that divide Ireland.

The Order has also provided a continuing bridge with Ireland for those Irish-Americans who are generations removed from their country of origin. Many A.O.H. Divisions bring children from the North of Ireland under Project Children or other programs. The Order sponsors many programs associated with promoting our Irish Heritage, such as, one year overseas study scholarships at Irish Universities and the Irish Way Program. Irish Studies programs at American universities and scholarship at universities, like Notre Dame, are also sponsored by the Order.

You may further seek admittance to the finest Irish Catholic Organization in the World, all we would ask is for you to live our motto of: "Friendship, Unity, and Christian Charity"

Monsignor Thomas J. Rilley

1912 - 1978

Division 39, the largest and second oldest division in Pennsylvania, is named in honor of a priest who served as our chaplain for over 25 years while devoting himself to myriad causes.

One of eight children, Thomas was born in Elmira, New York. He decided early in life to become a priest, following his older brother, James into the seminary. This was after the family had relocated to the Tacony section of Philadelphia. He was ordained in 1940. His first assignment was to the Philadelphia General Hospital as chaplain.

In 1943 he was named chaplain to the Cathedral of Saints Peter and Paul. He had the Irish gift of eloquence and was able to influence politicians, bureaucrats, and financiers to help in his charitable programs for the Philadelphia Archdiocese. Among the many marks of his legacy are: the House of the Gesu, the Guild for the Blind, the Neumann Nursing Home, Catholic Charities and the Catholic Youth Organization (CYO). He founded the Saint Patrick's Day Observance Committee and became its first chairman. This fostered the tradition of a dignified parade each year since 1952 in Philadelphia. Prior to that folks had to go to New York to see a parade of any magnitude.

The list of his benevolent works is truly impressive. As we go forth in the parade and in the future in the spirit of friendship, unity, and Christian charity, let us salute a most appropriate role model our namesake and former chaplain, Monsignor Thomas J. Rilley.