Established in late 2019, the Irish Culture Center of Virginia, Inc. is a 501 c. (3) charitable organization. Within a month we discovered the word “Center” created the illusion of a “brick and mortar” facility. As a result, we were offered Irish book collections for our library and antique Irish dance costumes for display. We graciously accepted these offerings and placed them in storage, as we wait for the opportunity to acquire a place to call home. Currently that is a dream. To avoid confusion, we successfully petitioned to “do business as” the Irish Culture Society.

However, in the post-COVID era we have hosted and presented lectures by accomplished Irish academicians and historians, presented the U.S. Civil War Irish musical anthology, and Irish dance performances before appreciative audiences.

To honor an Irish/Irish American patriot who contributed to the fabric of America, we contracted for a bronze raised relief sculpture depicting Irish émigré Colonel John Fitzgerald accepting George Washington’s donation toward building the first Catholic church in Virginia. In September 2025 this sculpture will be affixed to the wall at the Basilica of St. Mary in Alexandria, the church Fitzgerald founded. We are considering a second memorial project to honor the Irish Brigade’s courageous actions in the 1862 Battle for Marye’s Heights in Fredericksburg, VA. This is envisioned as a statue of a Union Army infantryman identified as Irish Brigade by the sprig of boxwood in this kepi.

We hope to continue our work and expand our offerings – including traditional music workshops, Irish language classes, cultural festivals, outreach programs, and acquisition of appropriate memorials to honor worthy historic figures To do this we rely on the generosity of individuals and organizations who believe in the value of preserving Irish culture and traditions.

Your support enables us to:

· Support Irish dance academies

· Host community events showcasing Irish music, literature, and history

· Preserve traditional crafts and oral storytelling through educational programs

· Bring authentic Irish performers and educators to our area

· Expand our memorials program

Professional lectures, dance performances, and memorials as described cost money. We rely 100% on your tax deductible donations of cash and/or real estate. With your continuing help, we can ensure that the spirit of Ireland thrives—not just as a memory, but as a living and vibrant presence in the Commonwealth. We are a 501c.(3) nonprofit so your donation is fully tax-deductible; our EIN is 843551738.

If you decide to donate, please use the PayPal link on the website or you can mail a check to:

The Irish Culture Society

236 Beachside Cove

Locust Grove, VA 22508