The lives and contributions of the Irish in the City of New Bedford are marked by the imposing and symbolic monument of a Celtic Cross by the water’s edge at the mouth of the New Bedford Harbor. The monument, dedicated on 24 June 2005, is designed and located quite intentionally. Although a Celtic stone cross predates Christianity, this particular memorial represents our deeply-seated faith and beliefs that root our culture and our hearts while the symbolism and pictorials intrinsic to the Cross, itself, represents the history of the Irish people in this City and within the Friendly Sons. The symbolism extends also to the location of this monument. It’s placement at the water’s edge signifies the emotional, cultural and economic journeys our fore-bearers took as they arrived on these shores as well as the livelihood many enjoyed as they plied their trade on these very waters.
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