Book excerpt: Philadelphia has been a magnet for the Irish since the 17th century. The Irish distinguished themselves in the Revolutionary War with dozens of heroes, such as Wexford-born sailor Commodore John Barry. When refugees from Ireland s Great Famine poured into Philadelphia after 1845, the city changed forever. The famine generation of Irish immigrants used their religious and cultural traditions to promote their own advancement by constructing a network of schools, Catholic churches, fraternal clubs, and cultural organizations. In Irish Philadelphia, images of their accomplishments and advancements are featured along with vibrant, personal stories of Irish residents. Prominent Irish Philadelphians highlighted include Bishop Francis Kenrick, Martin Maloney, Joseph McGarrity, Henry McIlhenny, Grace Kelly, Jack Kelly, Patrick Stanton, John McShain, and Fr. John McNamee."