The United States of America was celebrating its centennial year as an independent nation, and nowhere was its progress more visible than in the city of Boston. Recognized as the intellectual, educational, and medical center of America, its railroad network made it a hub of transportation throughout the New England area. Boston Harbor had been a major trading port since the 1600"s, when English imports flowed into the colonies from its shipyards. It remained a vibrant center of commerce, attracting traders as well as vessels taking advantage of the lucrative fishing market.
Many of the residents and workers were of Irish descent, having migrated by the thousands after the Potato Famine. A large number of them brought with them vast farming and maritime experience and made great contributi
