The Great Hunger Memorial

505 Ashford Avenue,Ardsley NY 10502

19 March, 2023

Description

The Great Hunger in Ireland (1845-1851) Poorly clad and terribly housed, the Irish peasants were entirely dependent on the potato for sustenance--out of 8 million, some 3.5 million ate little else, consuming 12-14 pounds per day. This dependency was to become fatal. Famines were nothing new in Ireland by the I840s, but a fungus virtually destroyed the potato crops. During 1840-50, 1.5 million died from hunger and related diseases. The few doctors working among the poor were unable to cope. Children were most susceptible to the famine fever. Yet in one year alone, 1847, four thousand ships carrying peas, beans, rabbits, salmon, honey, arid potatoes left Ireland for English ports. Also, 9,992 Irish cattle, 4,000 horses, and 1,000,000 gallons of butter were sent to England, too. In 1847, 400,000 Irish died due to starvation. That is why the year 1947 is often referred to as “Black 47.” The Atlantic Crossing So many people perished on the ships bound for the United States that these filthy, fever- ridden vessels became known as “Coffin Ships.” Between 1845 and 1855, 2 million Irish emigrated. During 1846-51, over 600,000 entered the port of New York. The 1850 U.S. Census shows 7,068 Irish-born living in Westchester. In Irish history, this period is called “An Gorta Mor,” the Great Hunger. It is the single most important event in Irish history. The Irish and Westchester County Where they went, they were known as “Diggers.” In Westchester County, they were largely responsible for the building of the railroads, dams (including Kensico Dam), and aqueducts. The early Catholic parishes in the county were built by and for the Irish. They made their mark in the Civil War and soon began to prosper. For those who were willing to persevere, the United States offered the best opportunity for success. Our Program This program will help you understand the historical events that resulted in the Great Hunger. The program will also describe the work of the Great Hunger Memorial Committee. Finally you will gain a better understanding of the meaning of this memorial and the lessons that can be applied to today’s world.