Savannah Irish Podcast

A Transatlantic Tale: Savannah's Historical Link to Wexford, Ireland

In episode four of season three of the Savannah Irish podcast, host Tara Reese welcomes back Dr. Howard Keeley from Georgia Southern University. They discuss the unique sister city relationship between Savannah, Georgia, and Wexford, Ireland, focusing on the historical trade connections that began in 1845 with the Graves family's international maritime trading company.
 
The Savannah Irish Podcast is proudly supported by The Irish Pub Company - the ‘Official Partner of the Guinness Irish Pub Concept’ which means that they are rated as the best in the world at creating the most profitable and authentic Irish Hospitality Concepts. They design, manufacture and fit out your venue from start to finish.
 
The episode dives into the cultural exchanges, stories of immigration, and significant impacts of Irish timber trade on Savannah's development. Additionally, it highlights the remarkable discoveries made by Georgia Southern University students in the National Archives of Ireland, and the ongoing efforts to strengthen ties between Savannah and Wexford today through initiatives like the Trade Bridge. The podcast underscores the importance of preserving these narratives for future generations.
 
Learn more about the VOICES in this episode AND tap the links to support the Savannah Irish Festival:
Meet Dr. Howard Keeley
Learn all about the Savannah Irish Festival at the Alee Temple on Saturday, February 7, and Sunday, February 8, 2026
MEET our SHOW SPONSOR - The Irish Pub Company
MEET our PRODUCTION CREW: Proudly produced by Dee Daniels Media
 
FIND A FAVORITE SPOT IN THIS EPISODE:
00:00 Introduction and Special Guests
00:21 Savannah and Wexford: Sister Cities
01:16 The Timber Trade Connection
04:06 The Graves Family and Their Ventures
13:05 Rediscovering Lost History
14:49 Modern Connections and Collaborations
18:18 Savannah's Irish Heritage and Ballast Stones
18:31 The Graves Family and Savannah's Stone Supply
19:47 The Dun Brody and Timber Trade
20:26 Personal Connections and Irish Stories
21:53 Savannah's Irish Neighborhoods and Cemeteries
25:59 Wexford's Emigration and the Famine
28:45 Challenges and Successes of Irish Immigrants
34:40 Preserving Irish History in Savannah

Foundations of Irish Savannah: Dr. Howard Keeley on the City’s Irish Roots

In this episode of the Savannah Irish Podcast, Dr. Howard Keeley from Georgia Southern University's Irish Studies program dives into the rich history of Irish immigration in Savannah.
 
The Savannah Irish Podcast is proudly supported by The Irish Pub Company - the ‘Official Partner of the Guinness Irish Pub Concept’ which means that they are rated as the best in the world at creating the most profitable and authentic Irish Hospitality Concepts. They design, manufacture and fit out your venue from start to finish.
 
Explore the initial waves of Irish settlers during the famine, the contributions of key figures like Henry Ellis, the establishment of neighborhoods, and the role of the Irish in politics, labor, and community building. Discover how the deeply intertwined Irish and Savannah histories have shaped the city, from early fraternal organizations like the Hibernian Society to significant civic contributions including alderman James McGuire's impact.
 
Stay tuned as the show promises further fascinating insights into the shared stories and legacies of Savannah's Irish community.
 
Learn more about the VOICES in this episode AND tap the links to support the Savannah Irish Festival:
Meet Dr. Howard Keeley
Learn all about the Savannah Irish Festival at the Alee Temple on Saturday, February 7, and Sunday, February 8, 2026
MEET our SHOW SPONSOR - The Irish Pub Company
MEET our PRODUCTION CREW: Proudly produced by Dee Daniels Media
 
 
FIND A FAVORITE SPOT IN THIS EPISODE:
00:00 Introduction and Rebranding
00:23 Early Irish Immigration to Savannah
01:37 Oglethorpe and the Irish Influence
02:44 Henry Ellis: Georgia's Second Founder
08:14 The Queensboro Settlement
14:31 Scots-Irish and the Hibernian Society
17:35 The First St. Patrick's Day Parade
20:42 Upcoming Episodes and Conclusion
21:00 Building Savannah: Irish Contributions to Labor and Community
24:28 The Great Famine and Its Impact on Irish Immigration
25:59 The 1860 Census: A Snapshot of Irish Presence in Savannah
29:17 Irish Women in Savannah: Employment and Contributions
33:43 Irish Political Activism and Civic Leadership
35:28 James McGuire Jr.: A Story of Perseverance and Politics
41:23 The Legacy of Irish History in Savannah
 

Beyond Savannah: A Southern Tapestry of Irish Festivals

In this episode of the Savannah Irish podcast, host Tara Reese and guests Dr. Kelley Mondesire and Connor Dolan explore the lively Irish and Celtic festival scene in the American South.
 
The conversation dives into how cities like Nashville, Tennessee, and Savannah celebrate their Celtic heritage through music, dance, and community events. Additionally, the episode highlights the importance of networking, cross-promotion, and community reliance among festival organizers.
 
Insightful discussions reveal how these cultural celebrations help to honor heritage, educate the public, and bring together people with shared ancestral roots. Specific upcoming event dates in Nashville and Savannah are shared, with aspirations for future expansions highlighted.
 
THE SAVANNAH IRISH PODCAST IS PROUDLY BROUGHT TO YOU BY: THE IRISH PUB COMPANY 
 
THE SAVANNAH IRISH PODCAST IS PROUDLY PRODUCED BY: DEE DANIELS MEDIA - STORYTELLING WITH A PURPOSE
 
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE VOICES & TOPICS IN THIS EPISODE:
Get details on the 2026 Savannah Irish Festival
Get tickets to the 2026 Savannah Irish Festival
Learn more about the Savannah Scottish Games
Learn more about the Irish Network Nashville
 
FIND A FAVORITE SPOT IN THIS EPISODE:
00:00 Welcome to the Savannah Irish Podcast
00:32 Meet the Guests: Dr. Kelley and Connor Dolan
01:34 Elevator Pitches: Roles in Celtic Events
01:57 Connor Dolan on Nashville's Irish Network
03:08 Dr. Kelley on Irish and Scottish Heritage
04:10 Tara's Role and Savannah's Celtic Culture
04:50 The Importance of Celtic Festivals
05:29 Nashville's Growing Celtic Scene
17:32 Savannah's St. Patrick's Day and Community
21:51 Cultural Festivals and Traditions
22:58 Joining the Nashville Irish Community
24:21 Networking and Community Building
26:09 Expanding Irish Cultural Events
27:21 Challenges and Opportunities
29:44 Technical Difficulties and Resuming Discussion
34:20 Future Visions for Cultural Events
40:47 Event Dates and Final Remarks
 

SEASON 3 BEGINS: Meet Dr. Howard Keeley & Georgia Southern University

In this premiere episode of Season 3 of the Savannah Irish Podcast, host Tara Reese welcomes Dr. Howard Keeley, the Director of the Irish Studies Program at Georgia Southern University.
 
The Savannah Irish Podcast is proudly supported by The Irish Pub Company - the ‘Official Partner of the Guinness Irish Pub Concept’ which means that they are rated as the best in the world at creating the most profitable and authentic Irish Hospitality Concepts. They design, manufacture and fit out your venue from start to finish.
 
WHAT YOU'LL HEAR: Dr. Keeley shares his extraordinary journey from Dublin to directing a program that bridges Savannah, Georgia, and Wexford, Ireland. Learn about the impactful educational initiatives, including the transformation of historic buildings into state-of-the-art learning facilities, innovative research opportunities, and the unique experiences that the students enjoy both in the U.S. and Ireland. The episode also highlights the importance of community engagement, the support from local communities in Savannah and Wexford, and future plans for expanding the program's reach and facilities.
Learn more about the VOICES in this episode AND tap the links to support the Savannah Irish Festival:
Meet Dr. Howard Keeley
Learn all about the Savannah Irish Festival at the Alee Temple on Saturday, February 7, and Sunday, February 8, 2026
MEET our SHOW SPONSOR - The Irish Pub Company
MEET our PRODUCTION CREW: Proudly produced by Dee Daniels Media
 
 
FIND A SPOT IN THIS EPISODE:
00:00 Introduction to Season Three
00:07 Meet Dr. Howard Keeley
00:48 Dr. Keeley's Background and Journey
03:43 Georgia Southern University's Irish Studies Program
04:08 Community Engagement and Support
05:35 Wexford Campus and Student Experiences
10:02 Research and Study Abroad Initiatives
12:39 Challenges and Opportunities in Irish Studies
16:31 Future Plans and Fundraising
26:17 Conclusion and Upcoming Episodes

It's St. Patrick's Day in SAVANNAH!

Welcome to the Savannah Irish Festival Podcast - brought to you by the Irish Pub Company! We're Celebrating St. Patrick's Day in Savannah with Ireland's Minister of Social Protection Dara Calleary. 
In this episode, host Tara Reese and President Deana Shores welcome Minister Dara Calleary to discuss the vibrant celebrations of St. Patrick's Day in Savannah and the importance of Irish heritage. Minister Calleary shares insights into his roles in the Irish government and the deep cultural connections between Ireland and Savannah.
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The conversation covers the significance of preserving Irish culture through events like the Savannah Irish Festival and fostering strong economic and social ties between Ireland and the United States. Additionally, Minister Calleary reflects on the historical struggles of Irish immigrants and the global Irish diaspora's role in promoting Irish culture.
Learn more about the VOICES in this episode AND tap the links to support the Savannah Irish Festival:
Meet Minister Dara Calleary
Minister Dara Calleary on Instagram
Learn all about the Savannah Irish Festival
MEET our SHOW SPONSOR - The Irish Pub Company
Proudly produced by Dee Daniels Media
 

Kevin Barry's Irish Pub: Vic Power's Legacy, Loyalty, and Love for Savannah

WELCOME TO THE SAVANNAH IRISH FESTIVAL PODCAST! Thank you to The Irish Pub Company for sponsoring this show. 
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This episode of the Savannah Irish Festival podcast features Vic Power, the legendary owner of the also-legendary Kevin Barry’s Irish Pub for 40 years. Vic shares the journey that led him to Savannah from St. Thomas in the Virgin Islands and the inspiration behind naming his pub. The conversation touches on the significant influence of Kevin Barry's on Savannah's community and its deep connection with the military, particularly the Rangers.
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Joined by Rick, a 36-year Army veteran, they reminisce about the pub's history, memorable events, and the lasting impact it has left on its patrons. The episode also highlights the personal stories of love and camaraderie that were fostered within the walls of Kevin Barry’s, including the fascinating tradition of honoring fallen soldiers. Vic also recalls his friendships and the famous faces that played at the pub, cementing its reputation as a beloved institution in Savannah.
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Learn more about the VOICES in this episode AND tap the links to support the Savannah Irish Festival:
Read more about Kevin Barry's
Meet the Committee
MEET our SHOW SPONSOR - The Irish Pub Company
Proudly produced by Dee Daniels Media

Irish Dreams Come True: Building the Perfect Irish Pub in Savannah, Georgia

LIVE AT THE FESTIVAL! Thank you to The Irish Pub Company for sponsoring this show. 
In this episode, recorded live from the Savannah Irish Festival, Tim Strickland, co-owner of Wexford Irish Pub, and Darren Fagan from the Irish Pub Company discuss their journey in creating the beloved Wexford.
They share stories about their beginnings, the challenges they faced, the community impact, and exciting future projects like the First City Tavern. Highlighting partnerships, community involvement, and the essence of Irish hospitality, this episode is a detailed look into the making of iconic Irish pubs. Plus, don't miss their plans for the upcoming St. Patrick's Day celebrations!
Learn more about the VOICES in this episode AND tap the links to support the Savannah Irish Festival:
Meet the Committee
VISIT Wexford Savannah's Irish Pub
MEET our SHOW SPONSOR - The Irish Pub Company
Proudly produced by Dee Daniels Media
LISTEN to other episodes from the Savannah Irish Festival Podcast

Savannah's IRISH FESTIVAL: Where Kilts and Culture Collide

Let's have a FESTIVAL! Thank you to The Irish Pub Company for sponsoring this show. 
In this lively episode, host Tara and the Savannah Irish Festival committee members record from Wexford Savannah's Irish Pub, the festival's title sponsor. They discuss upcoming festival highlights, including a Celtic concert at Victory North on January 31st and the main event on St. Bridget's Day, February 1st. Special performances by energetic bands SYR and Seven Nations are anticipated, promising a vibrant and modern twist to the traditional festivities.
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Listeners are also introduced to a variety of vendors offering unique Irish goods, delicious food trucks, and the much-loved Irish wolfhound kissing booth. The episode emphasizes the importance of sponsors and community support while providing logistical details for attendees, including parking tips and ticket information. Excitement is palpable as the team looks forward to welcoming everyone to this year's high-energy celebration of Irish culture.
 
Learn more about the VOICES in this episode AND tap the links to support the Savannah Irish Festival:
TAP HERE for the 2025 Savannah Irish Festival SCHEDULE
Meet the Committee
VISIT Wexford Savannah's Irish Pub
MEET our SHOW SPONSOR - The Irish Pub Company
Proudly produced by Dee Daniels Media

SL'AINTE to 2025 from County Wexford, Ireland to Savannah, Georgia

In this episode, the Savannah Irish Festival Committee celebrates the opening of SEASON 2 of the Savannah Irish Festival Podcast!
Our season opener was recorded on-location at Wexford Savannah's Irish Pub. Featuring an in-depth discussion with owners Jennifer Strickland and Chris Swanson, they delve into the conception and development of the pub, the challenges faced during the pandemic, and their dedication to creating an authentic Irish experience in Savannah.
The episode also highlights their deep ties to the community, their ongoing support for local events, and their blossoming partnership with Georgia Southern's Irish Studies Program. Special guests contribute to the lively conversation, adding their unique insights and stories about the pub and festival.
More about Wexford Savannah's Irish Pub: Savannah’s newest and most unique Irish pub was inspired by and named after County Wexford, Ireland, to which Savannah has a special connection since more than half of Georgia’s Irish emigrants traveled here from Wexford in the mid-1800s during the potato famine. In fact, most of the interior of the new establishment was crafted and shipped over from the emerald isle itself and assembled in Savannah. In addition to the brick-and-mortar authenticity of the pub, the soul of the new venue are in its culinary offerings and beverage menu. Delicious Irish meals accented by an eclectic beer and whiskey collection, live Irish music combined with sincere hospitality make Wexford Pub a jewel in the crown of Savannah’s most beloved restaurants.
Learn more about the VOICES in this episode AND tap the links to support the Savannah Irish Festival:
TAP HERE for the 2025 Savannah Irish Festival SCHEDULE
Meet the Committee
VISIT Wexford Savannah's Irish Pub
MEET our SHOW SPONSOR - The Irish Pub Company
Proudly produced by Dee Daniels Media

2024 Savannah Irish Festival - Here's to you, and here's to me - That's a wrap!

THIS WAS NOT YOUR GRANDFATHER'S IRISH FESTIVAL! Join host Tara Reese, producer Dee Daniels Media, Chloe Agnew Band - The Brave Collide, and SYR on this wrap-up episode of the 2024 Savannah Irish Festival. 
Big thanks to Victory North, our musicians, and all of our sponsors and vendors! 
Chloe Agnew
The Brave Collide
SYR
Learn more and support the Savannah Irish Festival in the links below:
Savannah Irish Festival
Meet the Committee
Proudly produced by Dee Daniels Media