Our History

Several years ago a group of Kansas Citians articulated a vision to create a place that would support, honor, preserve and celebrate the Irish and Celtic heritage of our community, families, and individuals year-round.

After much discussion, Kansas City’s historic Union Station was chosen as the location for the newly established Irish Center. Union Station and the Irish have a strong historical link. From the Irish immigrants who provided much of the workforce that built the railroads, to later immigrants coming through Union Station to start a new life in the Midwest, to the thousands of Irish-American soldiers who shipped out and came home through Union Station, to the Irish-American workers who dug the coal and butchered the livestock transported across the country from Union Station. The Irish Center’s partnership with Union Station continues to honor this history.

The Irish Center Today

The Irish Center opened in Union Station St. Patrick’s Day 2007. Today, the Center is a hub of Kansas City Irish activities, programs, music, and educational opportunities. The Irish Center includes a modest permanent exhibit on Kansas City’s Irish heritage, online and printed genealogy resources, an Irish resource library, educational and cultural programs and classes, space for traveling exhibits, a “wee” gift shop, a conference room that can accommodate 25 and a space for speakers, small concerts, and special events.

Hours are Wed – Sat 10 am – 4 pm, Sun noon – 4 pm. Admission is only charged for special events and select programs. However, donations are gratefully appreciated and support the many programs, activities and resources available through The Center.