One of the better resources for learning about your Irish ancestors is the Irish Cultural Centre of New England (the ICCNE). Housed in a thatched-roof, whitewashed stone cottage amid acres of green fields, although behind a mundane stretch of office park buildings, the Centre promotes the importance of Irish History and Culture through several offerings:
- Availability of an outstanding campus, open and accessible to all
- The Music / Dance / Arts / Literature of the Irish people
- Sports as an important part of the Irish Culture
- Applying Irish History to Modern Day Realities
- Language and Genealogy
- An Umbrella organization, helping other organizations to prosper
Founded in 1989, the mission of the Irish Cultural Centre of New England (ICCNE) is to promote and organize Irish cultural, educational, sporting, and social events. They aim to establish and sustain a facility where current and future generations of the New England community can participate in activities that promote Irish culture and heritage.
Working in collaboration with Irish organizations and the Irish government - as well as with the region's educational, arts, and cultural institutions - the ICCNE actively supports Irish cultural activities throughout New England.
While the focus is on culture, music, books, and other events, the ICCNE also houses a library and museum with an impressive collection of Irish books, music, videos, art, exhibits, and related material. The library is only open on Friday evenings from 7:00pm to 9.00pm and during special events. Occasional weekend seminars and guest speakers often provide seminars for novice and researchers alike.
The Irish Cultural Centre of New England does not provide much assistance remotely; you really need to visit in person to enjoy the events, the museum, and the library, The centre is located about 15 miles southwest of Boston at 200 New Boston Drive, Canton, MA 02021. The Irish Cultural Centre of New England's web site is available at http://www.irishculture.org
You can go to http://www.irishculture.org/IrishCulturalCentre/AllAboutUs.aspx to see a seven-minute video history of the Irish Cultural Centre or click on the icon in the image below.
