Happy St. Patrick's Day! As we put on our favorite green clothes and celebrate together, we remember and honor the strong traditions and Irish heritage that Buffalo holds so dearly. But there are two citizens from Buffalo's past that have really caught our attention this week.

Michael Shea and Jimmy Slattery are a major part of Buffalo's Irish history not only here in Western New York, but also worldwide. Both men are know for drawing large crowds but from very different audiences.

James Edward Slattery was a professional who was inducted into the Greater Buffalo Sports Hall of Fame in 1992, Buffalo Veteran Boxers Association Ring #44 in 1997 and the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 2006.

"Slats" was the son of a Buffalo firefighter and there are rumors that he would throw money out the window to help the poor kids in the neighborhoods!

Michael Shea started working in his early teens and, after buying a saloon, worked his way up to owing one of the most popular theaters in all of the world. Shea's performing arts center continues to draw crowds every year and recently announced it's lineup for the 2022 season!

Like "Slats" "Mickey" has roots that trace back to the Old First Ward. According to Buffaloah.com:

It is disputed as to whether or not Michael Shea was born in the First Ward or in St. Catharines, Ontario, but sometime shortly after his birth the family definitely settled in the First Ward.

We get to celebrate together, in person, for the first time since 2019! There are two parades this weekend. Dress for wet and cool weather as rain is in the forecast for both Saturday and Sunday.

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