Irish immigrants streamed into the mills of Lowell, Massachusetts, at the start of the Industrial Revolution, fleeing poverty and later the Great Hunger. Irish families established a neighborhood called the Acre, and some rose to roles as successful business owners who shaped the history of their new home. Hugh Cummiskey emigrated from Northern Ireland to become a powerful work gang leader and businessman who in turn hired newly arrived immigrants. The first recorded celebrations of St. Patrick's Day began in 1833, as new residents celebrated their Irish roots and American future with traditional music and parades. Today, the community still honors its Irish history. From tales of politicians and entrepreneurs to the everyday struggles of the average immigrant, author David McKean traces the history of the pioneer members who established Lowell as an industrial powerhouse.
