Irish Heritage Honoree Night
In celebration of Irish Heritage Month, the Museum is honoring three former West Enders of Irish descent.
George J. Leary [1903-1992] George graduated from Boston College High School and later received his law degree from Suffolk University Law School. He went on to serve as a State Representative for the West End and as executive vice chairman of the Democratic National Committee. He was a member of the West End House, the Holy Name Society of St. Joseph’s Church andthe West End Bowling League. He described the West End as “the greatest neighborhood this side of heaven.”
Mary E. “Nellie” McGrath Jackman [1902-2003] A longtime West Ender and mother of five, Nellie graduated from Mount St. Joseph Academy. She served as head cashier for the Boston School Department and was active for many years in Ward 3 politics. Nellie passed away at age 101, survived by four of her children as wells as 20 grandchildren and 35 great grandchildren.
William “Bill” Cuddy [1865-1938] The eldest of four boys, Bill graduated from the West End’s Philips School and was heavily involved with St. Joseph’s Church. He became a member of the Hendricks Club and a very close friend of Ward Boss Martin Lomasney. Bill himself served the West End in various political roles, including Alderman, Representative and Deputy Assessor. He also put the neighborhood on the map for amateur boxing and was named manager of the 1924 US Olympic Boxing Team.