Usually off-limit to the public, the American Irish Historical Society (AIHS) is opening its doors to Untapped Cities! Located on Manhattan’s Museum Mile, the AIHS is a center dedicated to Irish culture and knowledge. Built in 1901, the five story Beaux-Arts townhouse that houses the AIHS was a private home before it was purchased by the Society in 1939. It currently stands as one of the last standing mansions on Fifth Avenue. Today, the Society hosts a variety of public events such as concerts, lectures and poetry readings. With a library that holds over 10,000 volumes, it is home to one of the largest private collections of Irish and American Irish history and literature in the United States.

Insider Tour of the American Irish Historical Society

This private tour begins with a short history of the Irish in America and what led to the founding members establishing the Society in 1897. Guests will also learn about the historic townhouse and its previous residents. In addition, highlights of the library and archives, by such artists as Nathaniel Hone the Younger and George (A.E.) Russell, are on full display. For more information about the American Irish Historical Society, please visit our website www.aihs.org.

DETAILS:
Price: $35
What to know: The tour is approximately one-hour long.
What to bring: Comfortable walking shoes

Here are a few more pictures of the Mansion:

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Insider Tour of the American Irish Historical Society

See our full list of Behind the Scenes Tours.