The Ancient Order of Hibernians (AOH) is an Irish-Catholic fraternal organization based in the United States which was established in 1836. It purpose was to assist Irish immigrants, including those who felt the sting of discrimination and harsh working conditions.
The American branch of the AOH was founded in New York City in 1836, but the use of the name in Ireland may go back as far as 1641. When it was first founded in the United States, its existence and activities were concealed for some years. The motto is, "Friendship, Unity, and Christian Charity."
The Ladies Auxiliary of the AOH was formed in 1894 in Omaha, Nebraska.
The Molly Maguires used the AOH as a front to conduct a campaign of intimidation against mine and railroad managers in Pennsylvania in the 19th century.
The Ancient Order of Hibernians controls the St. Patrick's Day Parade in New York and has refused to let gay and lesbian Irish march in the parade, since it is a Roman Catholic festivity and the Church is against the homosexual way of life.
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