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Brian Cahalane

William Thomas Cosgrave, the first president of the Irish Free State, second from left, visits with his cousin Mrs. Frank O'Donnell, left, and his aunt Mrs. John Byrne, right, at the Drake Hotel in Chicago on Jan. 21, 1928. The children are O'Donnell's daughters Laurette, 7, and Camille O'Donnell, 9. Cosgrave had this to say about his visit to Chicago, "We feel that we have come on a family visit, for you must remember that most of us Irish in the old home have more relations in the United States than we have in Ireland." (baiduhai historical photo)

Diplomats: Chicago was the setting for Ireland’s arrival on the world stage — thanks to the Fellowship Club

February 17, 2026 at 5:00 a.m.

In addition to its role in Irish community life in Chicago, the Fellowship Club has long been important to Ireland’s international engagement.