About the AOH

With an American history that dates back to the 1800s (and Ireland roots to the 16th century), the Ancient Order of Hibernians (AOH) is not only as the oldest Catholic Lay organization in America, but is the largest Irish Catholic society in the world with Divisions across the United States, and close ties with the AOH in Ireland, England, Scotland, and Wales.

In America, the Division is the basic unit of the AOH. Divisions are combined into County Boards, which are in turn governed by State Boards, and an overall National Board elected every two years. Annual dances, concerts, and parades sponsored at all levels of the Order raise millions for charity.

The AOH Dubuque County #1 Division is comprised of over 50 members. Established in 2004 with the help of Monsignor Edward Petty, the Division has grown steadily and has donated tens of thousands of dollars to local Catholic charities. With its annual St. Patrick's Banquet, priest's golf outing and the Dyersville, Iowa St. Patrick's Parade, the Dubuque County #1 Division stays plenty busy.

The AOH fundraising goes to causes such as "March for Life", Xavier School expansion, priest education, Dyersville Volunteer Fire Dept., the American Legion Post, and AV equipment for Beckman High School. In 2009 we purchased an AED (Defibrillator) for Dyersville's St. Francis Xavier church which saved a man's life in early 2010 (here's the story).

To be Irish is a Blessing, to be a Hibernian is an Honor