In this episode of the Savannah Irish Podcast, Dr. Howard Keeley from Georgia Southern University's Irish Studies program dives into the rich history of Irish immigration in Savannah.

The Savannah Irish Podcast is proudly supported by The Irish Pub Company - the ‘Official Partner of the Guinness Irish Pub Concept’ which means that they are rated as the best in the world at creating the most profitable and authentic Irish Hospitality Concepts. They design, manufacture and fit out your venue from start to finish.

Explore the initial waves of Irish settlers during the famine, the contributions of key figures like Henry Ellis, the establishment of neighborhoods, and the role of the Irish in politics, labor, and community building. Discover how the deeply intertwined Irish and Savannah histories have shaped the city, from early fraternal organizations like the Hibernian Society to significant civic contributions including alderman James McGuire's impact.

Stay tuned as the show promises further fascinating insights into the shared stories and legacies of Savannah's Irish community.

Learn more about the VOICES in this episode AND tap the links to support the Savannah Irish Festival:

Meet Dr. Howard Keeley

Learn all about the Savannah Irish Festival at the Alee Temple on Saturday, February 7, and Sunday, February 8, 2026

MEET our SHOW SPONSOR - The Irish Pub Company

MEET our PRODUCTION CREW: Proudly produced by Dee Daniels Media

FIND A FAVORITE SPOT IN THIS EPISODE:

00:00 Introduction and Rebranding

00:23 Early Irish Immigration to Savannah

01:37 Oglethorpe and the Irish Influence

02:44 Henry Ellis: Georgia's Second Founder

08:14 The Queensboro Settlement

14:31 Scots-Irish and the Hibernian Society

17:35 The First St. Patrick's Day Parade

20:42 Upcoming Episodes and Conclusion

21:00 Building Savannah: Irish Contributions to Labor and Community

24:28 The Great Famine and Its Impact on Irish Immigration

25:59 The 1860 Census: A Snapshot of Irish Presence in Savannah

29:17 Irish Women in Savannah: Employment and Contributions

33:43 Irish Political Activism and Civic Leadership

35:28 James McGuire Jr.: A Story of Perseverance and Politics

41:23 The Legacy of Irish History in Savannah