Oh the Green Shamrocks -Postcard Friendship Friday #396

I love Ireland and all things Irish.  Green is one of my favorite colors--and this charming postcard by artist Ellen Clapsaddle is one of my favorites.

The man for whom St. Patrick’s Day is named was born into an aristocratic family in Roman Britain around the end of the fourth century. As a teenager, he was kidnapped by Irish pirates and taken to Ireland, where for years he was a slave. Eventually he escaped, only to return later on as a missionary who brought Christianity to the Emerald Isle.  After his death he was named the patron saint of Ireland. 

The celebration of St. Patrick’s Day, which began as a religious holiday, is celebrated March 17 on the Feast of St. Patrick. 

 Irish immigrants who came to America were the first to honor their heritage while embracing their new homeland on this holiday. They held parades, ate wonderful authentic Irish foods, with more than a bit of a party thrown in.  Thanks to Irish folks in the United States and elsewhere, St. Patrick’s Day eventually evolved from a little known religious holiday into a secular celebration of all things Irish. The first St. Patrick’s Day parade was held in New York City in the 1760s.  

However, it wasn't until much later St. Patrick's Day was actually celebrated in Ireland itself.  Thankfully, today it has become a national holiday with schools and government buildings closed.

Because there are some 34.5 million Americans claiming to be primarily, or partially of Irish descent, the wearing of the green on March 17 is still going strong here.  Indeed, I am proud of my Irish heritage—as was my Daddy.

I wish you Happy St. Patrick's Day, dear Friends.  Blessings and joy to each of you and have a lovely Postcard Friendship Friday!

* LINKING UP:  You can put your link in any time between now and next Thursday.  Postcard Friendship Friday is open for the entire week!     

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