The Migration Link between Cois Fharraige and Portland, Maine, 1880s to 1920s

Abstract

From the 1880s onwards, the west coast of Ireland — particularly the Congested Districts — formed a major source area of emigration to North America. This paper focuses on part of that outflow from Cois Fharraige. west of Galway city, which ended in Portland, Maine. A distinctive pattern of immigration characterised these Irish-speaking migrants in this relatively small east coast port, with occupational specialisation in longshore work for men and domestic service for women. An analysis of the migration link between these two coastal locations provides a useful insight into aspects of the diaspora of Irish-speakers.