Programs & Events
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History wasn’t built by blueprints alone—it was forged by the hands of the people who laid the tracks, worked the trades, and fought for their worth on the shop floor.
On August 15 at 11:30 AM, join the Irish American Museum for Echoes of the Rails & Threads, a hybrid in-person and virtual walking tour exploring the everyday labor, diverse trades, and worker movements that shaped our industrial landscape.
We’ll step onto the historic pavement around Hollins Market to trace the sweat, skill, and grit of the people who did the work—from the heavy iron of the rails to the local trade shops. Stand right where history happened, feel the grit of the neighborhood's past, and discover the hidden stories etched into the very streets we walk today. Whether you're joining us on the sidewalk or tuning in live from afar, grab your ticket and come experience the city through the eyes of the people who built it.
Join us for a special presentation with Cassie Kilroy-Thompson exploring the rich history of Texas, Maryland (now part of Cockeysville), a quarry town settled by Irish immigrants where her family lived. Drawing on her dedicated community history project, she will discuss the local labor history and the lasting impact of the families who worked the stone.
Spend your August Sundays at the Irish American Museum learning the delicate art of Irish crochet lace. This four-week series is a great way to explore this heritage craft, where you’ll work on creating a unique, heirloom-quality Christmas ornament to take home.
We’ll walk you through the process, covering traditional motifs and the specialized stiffening techniques needed to give your ornament its final shape. We provide all the necessary supplies, so you just need to bring your enthusiasm for craft, history, and connecting with others in our community.
Spaces are limited—register for the full four-part series to secure your spot today!
Get ready for an exciting Fall 2026 as we launch our 7th year of Irish Language Classes in collaboration with Irish Language Learners!
Join the dynamic Seán Léanacháin via Zoom for an enriching exploration of the Irish language. We offer various levels to cater to your needs, whether you're a complete beginner or have some prior experience.
Mark your calendars for the start of your language journey!
Our six 12-week sections and two 10-week sections are available for just $10 per class! The 14-week sections are $120, and the new 10-week Thursday classes are only $100.
Please note: A separate $40 membership to Irish Language Learners is required and can be purchased directly through their website.
Don't miss this opportunity to embark on a fun and adventurous language journey with us this fall!
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Come dance where history meets the beat!
There is nothing quite like a traditional Céilí to bring a community to life. Join us at the Irish American Museum for an unforgettable afternoon of music, dance, and pure Irish spirit. We’re transforming our museum grounds into a lively, open-air dance floor where the past isn’t just remembered—it’s celebrated through every step!
Whether you’ve been dancing for years or you’re ready to learn your very first set, this is your invitation to join in. We’ll have fantastic live music from Laura Byrne, Billy McComiskey, and Matt Mulqueen Friends and plenty of friendly guidance to help everyone jump into the fun. We are also thrilled to feature a special performance by the Tír na nÓg dance group, along with showcases from the talented BIMS students throughout the afternoon.
It’s a day to kick up your heels, enjoy the music, share a story, and connect with the heart of our Irish heritage. We’ll have soda and water on hand, and we invite you to bring a snack to share and your favorite beer or wine to enjoy as the music plays.
Dive into the fascinating story of Irish Americans, from the arrival of the first immigrants to their profound impact on modern culture. The Heritage Pages Book Club is the Irish American Museum's newest monthly series, dedicated to exploring the rich and complex tapestry of the Irish American experience through literature, history, and memoir.
This club is a core part of our 250 Programming Series, with each month's selection tied to a unique theme that spans two and a half centuries of history. We will journey together through the colonial days, the great immigration waves, major cultural contributions, and modern Irish American life.
What to Expect:
Join us to turn the page on a new chapter of discovery!
Ready to bring those old family portraits and hidden stories to life? Our team of experienced researchers has helped hundreds of people like you uncover their past, and we can help you break down those family history roadblocks.
How to Begin Your Discovery:
Register & Focus: Submit your $50 fee through our payment system. This includes the necessary form to gather the specific details and focus for your search.
Expert Research: Our team conducts the search, delving into vital sources like census records, city directories, historical newspapers, and sacramental records.
Report Delivery: You will receive real answers to your questions, along with a comprehensive digital document that lists dozens of resources for your continued research journey.
Your $50 directly supports the museum's mission to preserve and share history, making this a true partnership in discovery.
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