About Us
The Ancient Order of Hibernians is a Catholic, Irish American Fraternal Organization founded in New York City in 1836. The Order can trace its roots back to a parent organization of the same name, which has existed in
Ireland for over 300 years. However, while the organizations share a common thread, the North American A.O.H. is a separate and much larger organization.
The Order evolved from a need in the early sixteen hundreds to
protect the churches and the lives of priests who were keeping the Catholic Faith alive at risk of certain death in occupied Ireland during the reign of England's King Henry VIII. When England Implemented its dreaded Penal Laws in Ireland, various
secret social societies were formed across the country. These groups worked to aid and comfort the people by whatever means available. Similarly, the Ancient Order of Hibernians in America was founded May 4th, 1836 at
New York's St. James Church, to protect the clergy, and church Property from the "Know Nothings" and their followers. At the same time the vast influx of Irish Immigrants fleeing famine issues in Ireland in the late 1840's,
prompted a growth of various social societies in the USA - the largest of which was, and continues to be, the Ancient Order of Hibernians.
Active throughout the United States, The Order still seeks to aid newly arrived Irish
socially and politically, but is also very active in numerous community programs and charities.
The Order has also provided a continuing bridge with Ireland for those who are generations removed from the country. The AOH sponsors many of the programs associated with promoting our Irish Heritage such as the
IRISH WAY PROGRAM. You may further seek admittance to the FINEST Irish Catholic Organization in the World -- all we would ask is for you to live our motto of:
"Friendship, Unity, and Christian Charity".
Formed in November 2009, the Deputy Sheriff Patrick Behan Broward Division #1 is in its infancy, but we are rapidly growing and we are determined to become a thriving division of the AOH in South Florida. Please consider joining us!
About Broward County Deputy Sheriff Patrick Kelly Behan
April 9, 1961 - November 13, 1990
On November 13, 1990, BSO Deputy Patrick Behan was investigating an incident at a convenience store in Pembroke Park. While seated in his cruiser writing a report in the parking lot of the store, he was shot at point blank
range by some coward who approached the car from behind, and he died from his wounds. He was 29 years old.
 
Deputy Behan's service as a member of the Broward Sheriff's Office continued a family tradition: His father is a retired Broward County Court Deputy and his brother is a veteran of the Coral Springs, Florida Police Department.
Inár gcroí go deo! (In our hearts forever!)
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