Show History

For over 50 years, the “Hagerty Irish Hour” has kept Chicago connected to the Old Country with music, news, sports, and announcements of local concerts and benefits. The Hagerty program is the longest running Irish-oriented radio show in the country. The show was started on April 5, 1951 by Jack Hagerty, Sr. Jack Sr. was an Irish step-dancing champion and an insurance salesman, who was very active in all aspects of the Irish community. Jack Sr. did the show every morning until his death in August of 1980.

Since 1980, the “Hagerty Irish Hour” has been hosted by five of the Hagerty children. Join them in their signature sign-off from the air, “If you get the chance, please say a little prayer for me and my family, and let’s all pray for a peaceful and united Ireland.”