Savannah, Georgia, has a deep-rooted Irish heritage that continues to shape the city’s culture, economy, and traditions. From the early waves of Irish immigrants who contributed to industries such as healthcare, education, and the docks to the modern-day celebrations that honor their legacy, Savannah stands as a proud Irish-American city.
A City Built by Irish Hands
By 1860, one in four non-slave residents of Savannah was Irish-born, with many settling in working-class districts such as Frogtown, Yamacraw, and Old Fort. These communities laid the foundation for generations of Irish-Americans who played key roles in Savannah’s growth. The Wexford-Savannah Axis Partnership, led by Georgia Southern University’s Center for Irish Research and Teaching (CIRT), continues to uncover and document these rich historical connections.
Preserving Irish Heritage Through Research and Education
CIRT plays a leading role in studying and celebrating Savannah’s Irish history. Through initiatives like the Wexford-Savannah Axis research project, students engage in primary-source research, uncovering stories of migration and integration. Scholars have explored the lives of key Irish figures, such as Richard Joseph Nunn, whose work in public health transformed Savannah, and the many Wexford families who made the city their new home.
Learn More About Savannah's Irish HistoryUncovering Irish-American heritage in Savannah
When Sarah Ryniker (‘15) discovered a stack of handwritten letters, dated 1850 and penned by the late Richard Joseph Nunn, she could barely contain her excitement.
Sitting in the National Archives of Ireland in Dublin, she thumbed through the letters, many of which hadn’t been touched since they were originally opened, soaking up every word and learning how this man from the county of Wexford, Ireland, came to Savannah.
Read Sarah's Story
A Living Irish Tradition
Savannah’s Irish culture extends beyond its history books. Events like the Celtic Heritage Festival Savannah showcase Irish and Scots-Irish arts, music, and dance, ensuring that the traditions brought over from Ireland continue to thrive. With Georgia Southern University’s Wexford Campus in southeastern Ireland, the connection between Savannah and its Irish heritage remains stronger than ever.
By celebrating the past and fostering new cultural and educational exchanges, Savannah continues to honor its Irish traditions, keeping the spirit of Ireland alive for generations to come.
Savannah’s St. Patrick’s Day Legacy
Savannah hosts one of the largest St. Patrick’s Day celebrations in North America, with a parade that draws nearly a million spectators. The four-week “St. Patrick’s Season” includes cultural events, religious services, and family-friendly festivities that honor the city’s strong Irish roots. The annual Sergeant William Jasper ceremony also highlights the contributions of Irish-born and Irish-American military members.
