(click on image to view architectural plans)
The new Irish Cultural Center vision is soon to become a reality! We’ll keep you posted on the groundbreaking for our state-of-the-art facility, coming soon. As we work hard to build our new hub, you can look to us as a resource for all kinds of Irish-happenings in our area.
The Vision: The concept for the ICCHV was born in 2011, when a group of well established residents and business leaders set their minds on creating and celebrating the passionate community that is the Irish-American experience. The physical center itself has been long in the making. Now, with a significant grant from New York State, and donations from enthusiastic supporters, the state-of-the-art, facility will soon be underway. The Center will be located in Kingston’s burgeoning Rondout District. In 2011 we envisioned a dream, in 2012 we obtained our non-profit status, and in 2013 we purchased the parcel. Our capital fundraising and construction plans continue in earnest, with the goal of completed construction in 2017.
The Center will be a destination to celebrate all aspects of Irish culture. Literature, song, poetry, dance, language, drama and storytelling will be embraced and nurtured. An ambassador for many cultural, memorial and municipal events, the region’s active Ulster County AOH will have a new resource here, too.
A meaningful location. This site is important in Irish-Hudson Valley history. Once dubbed “New Dublin,” the Rondout was a building block to the country’s canals, as well as an early Irish-American community centered on faith and family. Today, that Irish spirit lives on – it’s also the location for the popular Hooley on the Hudson™ hosted by the Ulster County Ancient Order of the Hibernians every September, and the finishing point for the Kingston St. Patrick’s Day parade.
Our outreach will be extensive. Through special events and on-going classes people of all ages will have an opportunity to experience and learn from our rich heritage, including access to genealogical research and historical documents. Exhibit space will allow artists to showcase their work throughout unique gallery spaces. In the lower level, a theater will host musical and dance performances, and movies. On the top floor, the Center will also host educational and public affairs, featuring a library and map room, classroom area, and a recording studio. A modern, full-service kitchen, along with a distinguished dining area is located on the first floor, where you can also enjoy a cup of tea and conversation or a traditional Irish session. Stand out on the balconies to take in the view of the scenic Rondout Creek waterfront, where Irish laborers in the 19th century tirelessly helped grow the maritime industry and canal systems of New York State.
Our legacy. This opportunity to embrace our colorful heritage and build this unique center benefits us all, for generations to come. Please join us as we move forward in creating the region’s most robust Irish Cultural Center.
Our facility will be a warm and welcoming destination for all who want to share in the great Irish-American experience.
Sponsor The Center
