What brought a 140-year-old parade back to life?

Louisville’s St. Patrick’s Day parade, “the people’s parade,” is undoubtedly popular. But often overlooked is the rich history of the 140-year-old tradition that once took a 60-year hiatus.

Beginning post-Civil War, the parade marched down Broadway, ending at a local beer garden. But when the Great Depression hit – the taps ran dry. It remained dormant for 60 years until former Mayor Sloane and wife, a fourth-generation Irish-American, moved into Louisville’s Limerick neighborhood.

Together, they rejuvenated this “great day for the Irish,” and Louisville has been celebrating in the streets, drinking green beer ever since.

– Nicole Ares