Pronounce shillelagh5/2/2023 ![]() The name actually referred to the people living in the village of Shillelagh and Shillelagh Forest in Ireland during the 14th century who used the sticks as weapons.Īlthough shillelaghs have a violent history, today they are used as walking sticks and are seen as a symbol of Irishness. According to legend, King Richard II is credited for referring to the stick as a shillelagh. Shillelaghs are typically made of blackthorn. The club describes itself as an organization stressing the cultural, social and charitable aspects of Irish heritage, and its members encourage everyone to join - you don’t have to be of Irish descent to be a member.Ī shillelagh (pronounced shuh-ley-lee) is a wooden walking stick and club or cudgel, typically made from a stout knotty stick with a large knob at the top. In La Crosse the organization is responsible for many Irish events, especially the St. Since the 1960s, this club has become one of the largest ethnic organizations in Wisconsin. A local chapter - the Greater La Crosse Area Shamrock Club Inc. The Shamrock Club of Wisconsin was created in 1960 by people who desired to promote and keep Irish heritage alive. ![]() Although the percentage of individuals declaring Irish ancestry has decreased, the presence of Irish heritage in the community has not diminished. Today roughly 300,000 residents of Wisconsin claim Irish ancestry. In 1854, 16 of the 745 residents of La Crosse were born in Ireland. "La Crosse has been home to Irish immigrants since its early days of white settlement. "Things that Matter" article from the La Crosse Tribune: Max diameter measured at head of club is 2.25 inches, diameter of handle is 1.25 inches. Houligans, 415 S Barstow St.Wooden Irish shillelagh, "Erin" carved into head of club in ribbon design with clover carved into butt of the club.“That’s our goal someday,” said Rambo, jokingly. Unlike authentic Irish pub-bands, the Lads haven’t incited any bar fights yet. “We want to give the impression we’re fresh off the boat from Ireland,” said Rambo, explaining that they wear the garb and use Irish accents even while setting up for a show. While none of the band members are actually from Ireland, they play the part when performing as the Shillelagh Lads, Rambo said. Each member has his own specialty instrument and they all participate in vocals. The main Lads, who have made up the group since it began earlier this year, include David and Daniel Rambo (Michael’s brothers), Jake Henry (of New North String Band), and friend Michael Van Hemert. “The music has a universal-roots feeling to it,” said Rambo, adding that all ages enjoy it. The LP is a “foot-stompin,’ rollickin’, raucous good time,” specifically composed of 13 of the Lads’ most well-known tracks.Īs much as Irish music can amp up a crowd, their music is still family friendly. Unique in its sound (despite doing several traditional Irish pub tunes), the Lads use instruments such as the penny whistle, banjo, accordion, and mandolin to energize the crowd, getting them to dance and sing.Īnd with the release of their debut album, now that crowd can take the Lads home with them. ![]() Michael Rambo, one of the four main members of the Lads, likes playing at Houligans Steak and Seafood Pub because “there’s no separation between us and the crowd,” he said. ![]() As the only band in Eau Claire that exclusively plays Irish pub music, the Shillelagh (pronounced Shill-lay-lay) Lads’ defining characteristic is getting the audience involved during their performances. The Shillelagh Lads consider their audience members to be Irish the second they walk through the door. VanHemert croon at Dooley’s Irish Pub on November 3. Shillelagh Lads Michael Rambo and Michael ![]()
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