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The hard work of nineteenth-century Irish immigrants in Waterbury helped place the city on the map as the Brass Capital of the World.In the early years of immigration, the Irish still had a hard road before them, filled with prejudice and social exclusion. Irish Catholics would hold Mass in secret, but eventually beautiful churches were built, attracting the most revered clergy in Connecticut. Soon Irish and Irish Americans established themselves as city leaders and professionals in the community. Dr. Charles A. Monagan was a founding member of St. Mary's Hospital, while his son John later became mayor. Some achieved fame through their excellence in sports, such as Roger Connor, whose long-standing record for career home runs was unbeatable until finally broken by the one and only Babe Ruth. Detailed research and oral histories from living descendants bring to light the remarkable Waterbury Irish legacy.
About the author
Author Janet Maher is a professional artist who directs the studio arts program at Loyola University, Maryland. The first full-time art teacher, she created the art curriculum for Waterbury's Holy Cross High School. Collaborator John Wiehn is the director of Prospect Public Library. A lifelong resident of Hopeville, he has been elected to all offices of the Connecticut Ancient Order of Hibernians, currently serving as president.
