A History of the Irish Benevolent Society of London & Middlesex

On March 12th, 1877 in London, Ontario, Canada, a small group of Irish born and others of Irish descent from different religions and politics organized The Irish Benevolent Society. Its purpose was, and has continued to be, to provide opportunities for members and their friends to engage in benevolent activities and to preserve their Irish heritage. Item 17 of the Society’s Constitution and By-laws is a good example of one of the unique features of this organization:

At the election of officers it has been a rule of the Irish Benevolent Society and shall so continue that Presidents shall be alternately Protestant and Catholic.

The President holds office for one year. The Executive Officers are equally representative of Catholic and Protestant. The ability of this group to work in harmony to the benefit of their community has provided a fine example of mutual respect for the past 126 years.

Celebrating March 17th continues to be the highlight of the Society’s annual activities. Until recently the Society hosted a picnic during the summer months held at Port Stanley, Ontario on the shores of Lake Erie. Hundreds of London area adults and children enjoyed sporting events, Irish dancing, music, entertainment and lots of good food at this much anticipated day long event.

Our Paddy’s Pace will be held on March 8th, 2003 - the third year for this event which is a 5K and 10K run/walk held as a fund-raiser in support of The Lawson Health Research Institute of London. It has gained much public support while its success has continued. The Irish Benevolent Society provides a significant financial donation and its members volunteer on race day.

Many organizations and individuals have benefited from the Society’s benevolence over its long history. Most recent examples include: annual bursary and plaque to the most proficient student St Mary’s Choir School and Orchestra London; bursary and plaques to three graduates of Huron University College (Anglican) London and similar award to graduates of St Peter’s Seminary (Catholic); donations to The Forest City Feis; annual International Irish dance event held in London; local Boy Scout group for special tent project; London Urban Alliance on Race Relations Scholarship program. Many other groups and individuals have been assisted in the areas of Irish studies, specific medical needs etc.

Several years ago its history became the subject of a book entitled “The Luck of The Irish In Canada: A History of The Irish Benevolent Society of London and Middlesex" by Gordon J. Sanderson.

We trust that Irish luck and good humour will sustain the London Irish Benevolent Society for many more years.

Our wish for you
May you live as long as you want
And never want as long as you live.

George T. Brunton
President, 2002-03