Based in West Caldwell, New Jersey, the Ancient Order of Hibernians represents a living bridge connecting Irish-Americans to their ancestral heritage and to each other. As America's oldest lay Catholic ethnic organization, the AOH has served Irish immigrant communities since 1836, when it was founded to protect Irish Catholics from persecution and to provide social and economic support during times of hardship. Today, the organization maintains that founding commitment by welcoming newly arrived Irish immigrants and helping generations of Irish-Americans stay connected to their cultural roots.
The AOH's deep community involvement spans the entire United States, with divisions and facilities serving as gathering places where Irish culture—art, dance, music, and sports—flourishes and is passed down to younger generations. Members find more than organizational membership; they discover a supportive community of people who share Irish heritage and Catholic values. The organization has historically stood at the forefront of important social issues affecting Irish communities, from immigration reform to human rights advocacy, demonstrating a commitment to justice that extends beyond cultural celebration.
With historical ties to Irish societies dating back over 300 years, the Ancient Order of Hibernians carries forward a legacy of mutual aid, spiritual faith, and community solidarity. Whether members are recent immigrants seeking connection and support or Americans generations removed from Ireland, the AOH provides meaningful engagement with Irish heritage and a welcoming community bound by shared values. The organization's enduring presence across North America reflects its vital role in Irish-American life and its dedication to the principles of friendship, unity, and Christian charity that have guided it for nearly two centuries.
West Caldwell, NJ