I think it was more a holy day. I know in Newfoundland..at least I think I remember this, it was a holy day of obligation..although perhaps not offically through the pope...

I am thinking, after reading a bit about Big BIll Devery, my dear departed possible great grand uncle, that it ...well, I know it has its origins in a show of force, like don't mess with us...we're here and get used to it...well, that is what I think anyway..if you have seen the Gangs of New York, which I can only watch little bits of when it comes on TV (it seems to alternate almost daily with Steve Martin movies on my TV) ...you can just imagine those people assemblng and marching.

Someone asked on a TV show what a shilleleigh was..some caller said a walking stick..oh I do not think so...

Well, I am actually going to march in the parade in Seattle this year. I got the days off both my jobs and an appointment with my favorite doctor and it should be fun. I'll probably go the Seattle Center after and then wherever Clay Pipe is playing. I know know which county to go with...Kerry...mg