Among the most notorious of Secret Societies, was the Ancient Order of Hibernians, known as the “Molly Maguires” and the subject of the 1970 movie of the same name. Originating in Ireland, perhaps as early as the 18th century, the organization was brought in spirit and in fact, by Irish immigrants to the Pennsylvania coal fields. Perceived social and economic injustice were responded to with strikes, sabotage violence and murder. Ultimately, Pinkertons were brought in to quell the violence, resulting in twenty accused members being convicted of various crimes and hanged in 1877-8. Others were the victims of vigilante justice. As would be expected for any secret society, facts about their activities are outweighed by speculation. Today, some defenders question the evidence and process. However, while details might be brought to question, the events which took place are matters of record. This is an Ancient Order of Hibernians (AOH) sword of the period.
