Fierce American Patriotism. Irish-American Pride.

Since its inception in Philadelphia in 1771, the Society of The Friendly Sons of Saint Patrick has been an active, vibrant organization within the Irish community.

Original Members were some of the most active and influential patriots of the country, including John Dickinson, Robert Morris, Thomas Fitzsimons, Generals Wayne, Irvine, Butler, Thompson, Hand, Cadwalader, Moylan, Knox, and Stewart, Commodore Barry and numerous others, distinguished in the Army, Navy, Cabinet, and Congress.

250 Years of Giving & Support.

Throughout the first 100 years of our existence, the Friendly Sons inspired its members to aid the victims of starvation, eviction and exile from Ireland. This was especially true in the 1840’s when the calamity of the Great Hunger, the starvation due to failure of the potato crop and the evils of an oppressive government afflicted the Irish people. During this period when Ireland’s population was decreased by five million, the Society’s members worked with members of the Society of Friends and numerous other groups to relieve the starvation suffering. As late as 1879, the Society’s minutes show continuing concern for starvation conditions in Ireland.

The birth of an independent Irish state was attended with widespread warfare, and in 1920, the Society provided $5,000 for relief of those who suffered due to hostilities.

As conditions under a free and independent Irish government improved life on the island, emigration decreased. The Friendly Sons encouraged, and still support, greater interest in ties of friendship between America and Ireland.

Such projects as the erection of a statue of Commodore John Barry, Father of the American Navy, in front of Independence Hall in Philadelphia, and the Thomas Fitzsimons monument in Logan Circle symbolized the contributions of Irish people to the United States.

Giving Back to Our Culture & Our Local Community

The San Diego chapter of The Friendly Sons began in 1953, established by founder Bill Bailey.

As the largest Irish-American organization in San Diego County - and one of the oldest in the country - the Friendly Sons recognize our special obligation to celebrate our Irish heritage and to support the greater San Diego community.

If not us - then who?