Oh These Irish Hills!

he Irish Hills is a unique setting in Southeast Michigan named for the rolling terrain that reminded early settlers of the home they left behind. Today the Irish Hills is as much a place in the hearts of people as it is a pronounced topography sculpted by ancient glaciers.  By some indications there is an artesian dome of magic that percolates up from below, suggesting a way-of-being peculiar to those who frequent its hills and lakes. “Balderdash,” some would say; “Oh These Irish Hills!” others sing in reply. And so a group was born of those who would have us recognize this real estate of the heart and the insistent way it shapes the area.

Not everyone sees the Irish Hills so mysteriously, but there is clearly a reservoir of goodwill and nostalgia for the area that is under-appreciated and underutilized. Since the hills have no formal boundaries or unified government structure, the name designates an informal area that to some straddles four counties and numerous municipalities and to others is only a distinctive section of U.S. Route 12. Oh These Irish Hills! is a (soon-to-be) non-profit organization formed in late summer of 2004 with the stated purpose of advancing an Irish Hills legacy that involves area individuals, groups and organizations in activities that celebrate the beauty of the place, the spirit of its people and the progression of its history. We suggest that if you think you are in the Irish Hills, you are, and you are likewise encouraged to join with others in celebrating the inspiration it evokes.  

That, in a nutshell, is what Oh These Irish Hills! is all about. Beyond our mission statement and bylaws, we are not codified and are free to follow the instincts of our hearts, working together to be a community worthy of entrustment with such a special place.

Find out more about Oh These Irish Hills! www.otih.org

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Design by Kenny King.