The Ancient Order of Hibernians began in 1565 to help Catholics who were politically and socially ostracized and when priests were hunted and executed for saying the Mass. The Order in America began in 1836 in New York and has spread through the United States and Canada. We here at Division #8 Clinton have been here for over a century.
As of September 2012, have 182 members. This year we have given out 5 - five hundred dollar scholarships to local students; we have donated to Cancer, Heart, Diabetes and Multiple Sclerosis societies; as well as to the churches in Ireland and here at home. We have given to local fire, police, Wheat and Item appeal programs. In some cases we have given to defray funeral costs.
In order to become a member one must have some Irish heritage and be a practicing Catholic 16 years of age or older. Yearly dues are currently $20.00. We meet once a month on the second Thursday at 7:00 p.m. in the Parish Center. For more information call Jim Morrison at (978) 365-3309. Young members willing to work at our fundraising efforts are sorely needed.