Dear Customers,
When immigrants began coming to this country in droves during the 19th and 20th centuries, it was for many reasons. Some to escape religious persecution, others to avoid famine or poverty, and still others, just to improve their lot in life. It makes perfect sense then that they would congregate together in small communities with other people from their same ethnic background or circumstances.
I guess that’s why you often hear of “sub-cities” labeled Little Italy, Chinatown, Hell’s Kitchen or “Southie”. There was safety in numbers but there was also a sense of community and wellbeing living with others just like you. They could maintain their home country’s traditions, way of life and favorite ethnic foods with basically the only thing changing being their geographic location!
There was a lot of animosity and distrust between the different cultural origins even though they were all now technically Americans. Back in 1919, my dad told of being asked to work for the Irish grocer, Bill Gilroy, back in Austin, PA because Italians wouldn’t “trade” with him since he was Irish. Because my dad could speak their language, Gilroy would send him out with a horse and wagon to take grocery orders from the Italian immigrants. Then he’d also deliver the orders so that they wouldn’t have to leave the comfort and safety of their own little communities.
I would imagine that was how dad got his start in the grocery business. But despite any cultural differences, there are a few national celebrations that seem to transcend ethnic bias. At least for one day, Americans of every race and origin find themselves celebrating Ireland and St. Patrick’s Day with shamrocks, green beer and a delicious pot of corned beef and cabbage! Even if you don’t enjoy the food, you’ll probably find yourself wearing a little something green!