"Ireland and the Making of America" -
An Irish Cultural Center Pop-Up Exhibit

Dates: Wednesday, July 1, 2026 - Saturday, August 29, 2026

Cost: FREE!

Location: The Gallery located on the second floor of the Irish Cultural Center of the Mohawk Valley at 623 Columbia St., Utica

Contact: Chris Hoke at (315) 733-4228 Ext. 6 or irishccmv@gmail.com 

In celebration of America’s 250th anniversary declaring its independence from Great Britain, the Irish Cultural Center of the Mohawk Valley is proud to announce its newest popup exhibit opening this month, “Ireland and the Making of America.” The exhibit will be available for viewing through July and August.

Exploring Ireland’s Deep Connection to America 

In July 1776, the Continental Congress adopted the Declaration of Independence, announcing the separation of the thirteen American colonies from Great Britain. The document set out the principles of liberty and equality that would become the core ideals of American democracy and inspire anti-colonial movements around the world. And from the very beginning, Irishmen - and women - were there.

Stories of Irish Influence

Represented on twelve beautifully designed banners, this exhibition highlights the role of Irish immigrants in the creation of that document and in the broader struggle for independence, charting their contributions as politicians, soldiers and supporters of the revolutionary cause.

In the 250 years since the United States declared its sovereignty, Irish people have continued to shape the course of American life. Millions left Ireland seeking refuge and new opportunities, and the US in turn gained workers, public servants and community leaders. From developing the nation’s infrastructure to serving in its highest offices. Irish immigrants and their descendants have been central to building the United States as we know it today.

Acknowledgments

This exhibition comes to the ICCMV courtesy of the New York Irish Consulate and is a joint collaboration between EPIC (The Irish Emigration Museum) and Ireland’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. 

The exhibit, which is free to attend (but donations are appreciated), can be seen at the H.A.R.P. Museum, located on the second floor of the Irish Cultural Center of the Mohawk Valley, 623 Columbia St, Utica. All are welcome to attend and the museum is wheelchair accessible. ☘️

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