Irish Folk Singer Turns Friends Into Family At New Hampshire Pub

JACKSON, N.H. —

Watch Video here: https://www.wmtw.com/article/irish-folk-singer-turns-friends-into-family-at-new-hampshire-pub/70774359

Inside of The Shannon Door Pub in Jackson, New Hampshire, St. Patrick’s Day means coming home to a familiar song.

“Over 40 years I’ve been in the trenches singing the old ballads,” said Marty Quirk, an Irish Folk singer.

Quirk has taken the stage at The Shannon Door every St. Patrick’s Day for 47 years. He first discovered the pub while on a ski trip with his then girlfriend, and asked the owner if he could hop up on stage to play a couple of songs.

“That was one of the luckier days of my life, I think,” said Quirk.

Now, Quirk has developed a loyal fan base of New Hampshire locals and tourists from all over New England. Each year, the same crowd gathers in Jackson to throw back a few drinks and listen to Marty behind the mic.

“Come hell or high water, I’m not going to miss it. Nineteen years, I’m gonna be here on Saint Patrick’s Day,” said Brian Legg from Rhode Island.

Against the backdrop of Marty on stage, The Shannon Door has become a spot where friends become family. Now in its 73rd year and third generation of ownership, the Jackson staple is a favorite because it feels like home.

“Marty… I mean, this was well established, but he really put this place on the map with live entertainment,” said Alicia Mulkerrin Hawkes, a second-generation owner of The Shannon Door.

“Life can be a little cruel sometimes, so you find a good spot to come in, have a good meal, have a strong drink, and it’s music and merriment. That is universal happiness,” said Quirk.

Marty lives in Manchester, New Hampshire, and has no plans on putting down the guitar any time soon. He is already looking forward to taking the stage next year.