The Guide to the New England Irish, published in June 1994, an Enduring Compendium of the Region's Irish Community

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In June, 1994, Quinlin Campbell Publishers (QCP) issued its 3rd edition of Guide to the New England Irish, a compendium of more than 1,200 listings Irish cultural, historical, literary and language organizations, businesses, services, as well as a directory of Irish music bands, singers, dancers, writers and teachers.

The 3rd edition was written and self-published by Michael and Colette Quinlin,  an expansion on two other editions, Guide to the Boston Irish (1985) and Guide to the New England Irish (1987). 

All three editions were published under the imprint Quinlin Campbell Publishers, which Michael began in 1980 as an importer and distributor of books about Northern Ireland. 


In the introduction, the authors acknowledge the reach and longevity of the region's Irish community, citing 18th century place names such as Belfast, Maine and Dublin, New Hampshire. They acknowledge the two U.S. congressmen at the time,  Bruce Morrison of Connecticut and Brian Donnelly of Massachusetts, who helped obtain visits for Irish coming to America.  

Music reporter Scott Alarik of The Boston Globe wrote, "The book's 182 pages are vivid proof of the breadth and scope of Irish culture in these climes. Organized by state, it lists the associations and institutions one would expect - musical and dance groups, theater companies, social clubs, pubs - but also myriad educational programs, philanthropic organizations, film and literary series, travel agen cies, musical instrument and instrument repair shops, radio; programs, newspapers, storytellers, importers, sports activities and much more.  

Alarik also notes, "the debut of another Quinlin project, the Boston Irish Heritage Trail, an assortment of 17 historical sites and statues."



Since debuting in June 1994, the Boston Irish Heritage Trail has expanded into a trail of 20 landmarks in Downtown Boston and Back Bay, and an additional 20 landmarks in Boston's neighborhoods.  Plans are underway to expand the trail to include all of Massachusetts in the next three years.  

In 2000, Michael and Colette Quinlin formed the Boston Irish Tourism Association, which continues to celebrate the New England region's rich Irish culture, heritage and vibrant community. 


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