PARADES WILL BE held across the globe today as people come out to celebrate all things Irish in honour of St Patrick’s Day.
None more so than in the US – specifically in New York – where thousands will gather in a swarm of green to enjoy the spectacle of one of the world’s most famous parades.
Here are some photos of the celebrations in New York and Boston dating back to the 1940s – from the Kennedys embracing their Irish heritage to flags with slogans such as ‘England get out of Ireland’ being carried through the crowds.
1943
Fifth Avenue was jammed with marchers out in force for the parade on March 17, 1943.
This photo shows 49th Street just before passing the reviewing stand at St Patrick’s Cathedral.
1948
Members of the United Irish Counties Association carried a banner bearing the slogan “England Get Out of Ireland” as they marched up Fifth Avenue during the annual St Patrick’s Day Parade in New York in 1948.
The 69th Infantry, National Guard, swinging past St Patrick’s Cathedral on Fifth Avenue.
1953
The national flag of the Irish Free State (foreground) flies over the marchers in this view of the traditional St Patrick’s Day parade along Fifth Avenue in New York City.
1955
An estimated 750,000 people watched the traditional St Patrick’s Day parade on Fifth Avenue in New York in 1955 as marchers stepped along to snappy Irish airs and military marches.
Associated Press reported at the time:
A bright sun shone but a 25-mile-an-hour wind whipped along the march route and spectators braved below freezing temperature to watch the annual salute to St Patrick.
This view is looking south at 59th Street.
This photo shows the Ancient Order of Hibernians, Division 8 from the South Bronx, marching up Fifth Avenue.
1968
Senator Robert F. Kennedy photographed with his brother, Senator Edward M. Kennedy during the St Patrick’s Day Parade in South Boston.
1976
Former Georgia Governor Jimmy Carter appeared in the New York Parade wearing his own campaign button and “England Get Out Of Ireland” button on March 17, 1976.
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