Vice President JD Vance and Second Lady Usha recently welcomed Irish Taoiseach Micheál Martin and his wife Mary O’Shea to their residence for a time-honored breakfast.
This event was a celebration of tradition, though Vance chose not to delve into his own Irish heritage during the gathering.
Instead, he shared some fond memories of his trip to Ireland in 2023, which he took alongside his wife while serving as a senator.
A Humorous and Heartfelt Moment with Green-Clovers and Pants
During the breakfast, Vance reminisced about his visit to Ireland, noting the unique blend of stunning landscapes and technological advancement that he had encountered.
As a playful nod to the occasion, he wore a pair of special green-clover socks and joked that his wife Usha was finally able to wear her cherished green pants, which had been tucked away in her closet for years.
It was a light-hearted moment that brought some laughter to the gathering, reflecting the easy camaraderie between the two families.
Micheál Martin Highlights Vance’s Irish Roots
While Vance didn’t specifically mention his Irish heritage, Taoiseach Micheál Martin made sure to acknowledge it in his remarks.
Martin highlighted the significant role of Scots-Irish emigrants in shaping the United States, including Vance’s ancestors.
He also extended an invitation to the Vance family, expressing his excitement at the prospect of hosting them in Ireland.
Vance’s roots trace back to the Northern Ulster province of Ireland, as he shared in his 2016 memoir Hillbilly Elegy.
In the book, he famously wrote, “To understand me, you must understand that I am a Scots-Irish hillbilly at heart.”
His ancestors originally migrated from Barnbarroch in Wigtonshire, Scotland, to Ireland before ultimately making their way to the U.S.
Vance’s Ancestral Ties to Ireland
John Vance, JD’s ancestor, initially leased land in the Northern Irish province of Tyrone before his son Andrew emigrated to America in 1733 with his family.
They settled in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, where Ephraim Vance, JD’s great-great-grandfather, played a pivotal role in defending their farm during the French and Indian War.
This deep ancestral connection to Ireland and the U.S. is a significant part of Vance’s family history.
Uncertain Whether Vance Will Receive Ancestral History from Irish Minister
Irish Communities Minister Gordon Lyons had plans to present Vice President Vance with an official history of his ancestral ties to Ireland.
However, as of now, the Vice President’s office has not confirmed whether he received the historical documentation during this visit.
The Vance family’s rich heritage continues to be a point of interest and pride, though their exact plans to explore these roots remain to be seen.