Irish Specialty Shop Has Deep Roots in Oak Lawn
In just a few days, Americans will join the international community in celebrating one of the world’s most public festivals, St. Patrick’s Day. On March 17, people who are not Irish pretend they are while those who actually are Irish give thanks and celebrate their country. And where can you go for all of your “Kiss Me, I’m Irish” needs? Right down 95th Street to A Touch of Ireland, a specialty gift shop with a 35-year history in Oak Lawn. Located a few blocks west of Ridgeland Ave. at 6761 W. 95th St.,
A Touch of Ireland offers a wide assortment of Irish goods and gifts, many of which are imported from Ireland. Walk into the store on any given day and you will most likely find Annie Cremins standing behind the counter waiting to greet you with a smile and her charming Irish brogue. Cremins is the store’s long-time manager and has worked there for 25 years.
Oak Lawn Patch: If you could describe the store in just a few words, what would you say about it?
Annie Cremins: A Touch of Ireland is a friendly place to shop that sells all Irish items. We have unique gifts such as china and hand-knit sweaters, most of which are imported from Ireland. We sell everything from Irish dance shoes to baby clothes and we also have a large selection of Waterford Crystals.
Oak Lawn Patch: Could you give a brief history of the store?
Cremins: The store is owned by John and Mary Raftery and they have been in business for 35 years, though not all those years were spent at this location. About ten years ago, we moved from what used to be a Holiday Inn on 95th and Pulaski where the Target is now. There was a big demand for Irish stuff since Oak Lawn has a fairly large Irish community so John and Mary decided to open the store.
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