08/27/2026
Catalpa Rescue 150th Anniversary
Organized by the New York 1916 Commemoration Committee.
Large crowds gathered at Ernie’s last Saturday to mark the 150th anniversary of the Catalpas arrival in New York.
Special guest speaker from Ireland was Dr. Ruan O’Donnell, a leading authority on modern Irish history and who currently serves as the Head of the History Department and Senior Lecturer in History at the University of Limerick.
His lecture traced the Fenian movement’s transatlantic networks, highlighting how the Irish struggle was sustained by its diaspora. He noted that the Catalpa Rescue was not merely a prison break but a propaganda victory that humiliated the British Empire and inspired future generations of Irish Republicans, including those who would rise in 1916. Dr. O’Donnell emphasized how the rescue demonstrated the power of the worldwide Irish diaspora, connecting communities from New York to New Bedford, Newfoundland, Ireland, and Australia. The operation cemented the relationship between Irish America and Ireland, proving that the struggle for Irish freedom was a global endeavor.
Fr Pat Maloney & George McLaughlin also spoke, underscoring the Fenian ideal has not been completed☘️
Thanks to all helpers and volunteers on the day , it was a special commemoration for the New York Irish community
The event showcased the breadth of Irish America’s organizational strength. Groups represented included: Fenian Memorial Committee of America, O’Donovan Rossa GAC Queens, The Gaelic American, Ancient Order of Hibernians Division 7, Manhattan, Brehon Law Society, Irish American Writers & Artists, Cumann na Saoirse Náisiúnta/National Irish Freedom Committee, Gaelic American, United Irish Counties, Manhattan #1 Celtic Supporters Club / New York Fenian Bhoys, Cumann Cháitlín agus Thomáis Uí Chléirigh, Brooklyn, Radio Free Éireann, Friendly Sons of St. Patrick NY, Gurley Flynn Society and Connolly Association.
