Had Fun at the Conshy St. Patrick’s Day Parade? Thank the AOH

Thousands of residents lined the streets of Conshohocken on Saturday to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day, and hundreds tasted Irish Coffees and celebrated at the Grand Marshal’s Ball earlier in the month – thanks to the Ancient Order of Hibernians, Notre Dame Division One.

At the parade, chaired this year by AOH members Jim Gallagher and Rae Displado and featuring Tom Coughlin as the Grand Marshal, the AOH and Lady AOH Members were among the first down Fayette Street, along with St. Patrick and the AOH Irish Thunder Pipe and Drum Band, and the AOH Colorguard.

“Although the weather was less than cooperative, it was a great day sharing Irish culture and traditions with the community,” said AOH President Ron Trask.

So, when not planning hugely successful parades centered on their heritage, what exactly does the AOH do?

The AOH is a national Catholic, charitable organization that raises funds for community organizations and the needy- last year, the Notre Dame division donated more than $50,000.  The primary purpose of the organization is to promote friendship, loyalty and Christian charity.

The Notre Dame Division is the third largest in Pennsylvania, and one of the top largest in the country, with 400 members from Whitemarsh, Plymouth, Conshohocken, Norristown, King of Prussia and Bridgeport.

The group meets on the Thursday of every month at the AOH Hall, located at 342 Jefferson Street in Swedesburg. The hall includes a pub, which is open to members every day.

The AOH organizes several leagues, including softball, shuffleboard, pool, and golf.

The division holds several annual events, including the Irish Festival in Mont Clare, Pa. each summer.

For more information on the AOH, visit the division’s website.