Irish Butte

Summoned by the call of the copper mines in Butte, Montana, Irish immigrants left a struggling Ireland at the beginning of the 20th century in search of a better life. Around the mines peppering the hills of the mining city, these determined sons and daughters of Eire built strong Irish neighborhoods that engendered the best of Irish culture and influence. Faith, family, a strong work ethic, and a sense of humor would see these immigrants through the decades. Celebrations like St. Patrick,s Day and An Ri Ra, Irish language workshops, and a new generation of Irish artisans acknowledge the contributions of this influential group.

This compendium of vintage imagery, based on the treasured photographs and stories held by descendants of those early settlers, depicts the extraordinary lives and determined spirit of the Butte Irish. Tapping these sources, along with the Silver Bow Archives and the World Museum of Mining, former history teacher, genealogy buff, and lifelong Butte resident Debbie Bowman Shea weaves a compelling text, immortalizing some of Butte's most significant and tenacious pioneers.