Our History

Saint Columcille United Gaelic Inc., of Kearny, draws its name from an Irish prince, warrior and scholar who became a priest to bring early Christianity to the Western Isles of Ireland and Scotland.  From the Isle of Iona, Columcille (521-597) helped spread faith, knowledge and culture throughout Europe. Saint Columcille remains a lasting symbol of the unity of the early Celtic peoples,
particularly the Scots and the Irish.

In October 1949, Sean McGonigal founded a pipe band that he wanted to be different from any other. Sean chose Saint Columcille to represent his ideal, the “Unity of the Gael.” Sean expressed his goal in the band’s motto, “Ar Aghaidh le Ceol na n Gael” -- Forward the Music of the Gael.”

At this time, we mark the 59th Anniversary of this unique organization whose stated mission is to nurture Gaelic culture. It still thrives with members eager to perform their music throughout the United States and abroad.  The bands sponsored by Saint Columcille United Gaelic have competed at many Irish Feis and Scottish Games since the 1950s, culminating in numerous National and International Championship honors. Members of our band have further distinguished themselves as top soloists, teachers and as leaders of the Eastern U.S. Pipe Band Association.

While the band routinely performs at parades, dances, benefits, concerts and other public events, we continually improve and test ourselves through the “competition circle.” Indeed, the Saint Columcille organization has, at times, included as many as three competitive bands of different grade levels, further credit to its effort to develop all members of its ranks. Musically, the band most recently has been led by two of Sean’s grandson’s – brothers Joe and Sean McGonigal – both well known throughout
 the pipe band world.

The band's ideals, set forward by Sean in 1949, remain the mantra of the Saint Columcille United Gaelic organization today.
 

October, 2008