Kentucky Irish American. (Louisville, Ky.) 1898-1968, 1900-12-22
st. Patrick's Day Celebration
Was Subject of Heated
Discussion.
Many Members Scored For
Shifting Work Upon
Others.
TURNED OYER TO COUNTY BOARD

The most sensational and spirited meet
ing of Hibernians for some years past
occurred last Tuesday night at Hibernian
Hall. The call issued was for general
meeting of the members of all the divis-
ions in this city to inaugurate plans for
the observance OF the anniversary Of St.
Patrick, but the large number who failed
to attend aroused the ire of those who are
Ancient Order of Hibernians and upon
whose shoulders the hard work always
falls. The County Board and division
officers and number of others have here
tofore displayed much energy and ability
and met with such success that others
became imbued with the idea that their
presence and services were not necessary.
Here is where they made their mistake,
and If they are hereafter to share the pleas
ures and benefits bestowed by the order
they must also assist in all that will pro-
mote its growth and welfare.
County President Tom keenan, occu-
pied the chair, and the records were
looked after by Mark Ryan. The Chair
man announced the purpose of the meet
ing to be to get general expression from
the membership at large as to what man
ner of celebrating the anniversary of Ire
lands patron saint would please the
largest number. The entire matter was
in the hands of the County Board, but it
was desired that this years observance of
the day should be more general and sur
pass those of recent years. President
keenan, congratulated the members pres
ent, but expressed regret that the hall
was not crowded
Chairman John Mulloy reported that
while no formal arrangements had yet
been made. the committee had secured
the option on two theaters and favored
giving an artistic and high class literary
and musical entertainment, as that would
afford opportunity for the largest number
participating.
This suggestion would necessitate much
labor and expense, and led to a spirited
discussion, in which no personalities were
INDUCED, but those who have been the
recipients of the many benefits of the
Ancient Order of Hibernians without en-
tering heartily into its work were given
quite a warm roast.
During the discussion several advocated
a public celebration, the expenses to be
borne by the divisions, while others ia
vored banquet at the Louisville Hotel.
The sentiment seemed to favor the former
proposition, though there was manifest
upon all sides an earnest desire to observe
the day only in manner BETTING the
memory Of Ireland's great saint.
After all the suggestions had been dis
cussed and the advantages of each made
known the entire affair was left with the
County Board. This will give each divis-
ion opportunity to take action and in
struct officers before the next County
Board meeting, when final arrangements
will be made. Unless the membership at
large becomes more interested it is likely
that a complimentary public entertain-
ment will be given and each assessed to
defray the expenses.
AS stated in former issue, the County
Board entertained those present with
smoker, which was appreciated by all
present. The different speakers were in
earnest and now favor burning some OF
the money on hand to arouse from their
lethargy those who have been for many
months depending solely upon the Off
GERS and a few jealous workers to pro-
tect the order and keep it in condition
to meet all demands. The element that
has been lacking in interest is always
prompt to demand benefits when IN
adverse circumstances or need, and it Isl
the purpose to make them bear some Of
the burden while they are able.