Kansas City Irish Center
The Kansas City Irish Center, formerly known as the Irish Center of Kansas City, is a non-profit organization located in historic Drexel Hall. The Center opened in Union Station on March 17, 2007, (Saint Patrick's Day.) The Center's mission encourages knowledge and appreciation of the Irish and Irish-American community, culture, history, and heritage in the greater Kansas City area and region.
Events
As the "Living Room" of the Irish Community, the center hosts many cultural events:
- Programs on Irish, Irish American, and Celtic topics including culture, arts, music, Irish dance, literature, history and heritage
- Monthly Irish Music jam sessions, on the third Sunday of each month
- Irish Music classes, including Bodhran classes and Trad Music Learner Sessions.
- Irish language classes
- Irish knitting, crochet and lace making classes
- Genealogy workshops and individual research assistance
Irish Whiskey tastings and concerts featuring local Irish musicians are two of the more popular events at the Center.
The Center also has a wee pub that is open during select events and activities. Information on upcoming events can be found at [1].
Exhibits and Resources
- Small exhibit about the history of Kansas City's Irish Community
- 4,000-book John Forest Resource Library, a collection that covers the depth and breadth of Irish culture and history. The library is a resource center, as books can be utilized on-site only.
- Ireland travel information & resources
Other
Books, cd's, and other items of Irish interest are sold in a small, tax-free gift shop on site.
The Center can be rented for private events.
References
- Director of the Irish Museum and Cultural Center