Reading, PA - Midnite - St Patrick's Day

[overexposed]

Greetings!

One of America's most interesting traditions will again occur in Reading, PA as we gather at midnite (ending the day).

The tradition honors the unusual friendship between Irishman Tom Hannahoe and German Alvah Schaeffer.

Starting in the late 1800s, the friends made a pact that would start when the other died - Hannahoe maintaining Schaeffer's grave in green or Schaeffer playing Hannahoe's three favorite songs at his grave at midnite as St Patrick's Day closed.

Read all about this amazing ceremony at: http://americantom.com/hannahoe.htm

In the 1940s the event drew 10,000 people. Today about 50 gather at the cemetery's edge. After a brief introduction by a Hannahoe ancester, the music is played and the ceremony concludes with everyone wishing each other the best.

Following this, some attendees march to the actual grave where irish whiskey is consumed and silver coins are placed on the stone.

Several kilted folks make an appearance. Hope to see you there!

[auld argonian]

That's one of those amazing (and true) stories. It's sad to read the comments on the website abut the state of disrepair that the cemetary is in. I'd love to see the National Media pick up on this story...I'm sure that a lot of people would find it inspiring.

Best

AA