At the risk OF getting everyone’s Irish up, there’s something about the folks from the Old Sod that says–no bellows, please–excess. Some of this impression stems from old stereotypes, sure. But whether they’re observing their patron saint’s feast day, dabbling in politics or rooting for Notre Dame, it does seem that Irish-Americans like to take it over the top. Any wonder it’s so fun to be one for a day?
Number of years in the past 70 that Chicago has had an Irish mayor: 62.
Percentage decline in Chicagoans claiming Irish ancestry from 1990 to 2000: 19.
Nationality of “Danny Boy” lyricist Frederick Weatherly: English.
Name of Sen. John Kerry’s paternal grandfather before he came to the U.S. and changed it: Kohn.
Sources: Tribune archives, U.S. Census Bureau.
