During the early 1700s there was a major wave of Irish immigration to the budding U.S. Their long-term fight against the British in their homeland, where many were driven from by British oppression, made them naturally sympathetic to the revolutionary cause. By 1779 Irish members in the colonies made up a large part of the continental army’s memberships including the troops led by General Washington.

In March of 1780 Washington noticed that his men in Morristown, New Jersey were having a particularly rough patch of low morale and wanted to do something to lift their spirits. It was a harsh winter, nicknamed the “hard winter,” made even harsher by a shortage of food and supplies as well as freezing temperatures.  

General Washington found his inspiration in the traditions of the Irish people who made up much of his army. He knew of the rising unrest happening between the Irish and the British in Ireland that drove many of his soldiers as well as the importance of St. Patrick as the Irish patron saint and so he decided to make St. Patrick’s day a holiday for his troops as well.   

On March 16, 1780, General Washington sent out orders announcing St. Patrick’s Day to be a holiday for his troops. It was their first holiday of rest for over a year. Washington told his troops not to attend with rioting and disorder as they celebrated and rested, but we do know at least one commander purchased them a hogshead of rum.

Grateful for Washington’s recognition of their patron saint and respecting their Irish traditions, the Friendly Sons of St. Patick, a relief organization for Irish immigrants, made Washington an honorary member of the Sons of St. Patrick.