History of the Unit
The Shamrock Club Color Guard orignially started as a designated group to carry the Irish and American flags during the St. Patrick's Day Parade, in 1966 by Kit Nash. For sixteen years, Kit led the Shamrock Club down the parade routes, first on Wisconsin Avenue, and then along Mitchell Street. Kit announced his retirement after the 1982 parade.
At the 1982 Elm Grove Memorial Day Parade, the new Shamrock Club Color Guard made its debut. In the 1983 St Patrick's Day Parade, our new uniforms of kilts and berets made their debut.
Over the years, we have evolved to become a full-fledged Pipe and Drum unit. In 1988, we were one of the few American groups to march in the Dublin Millenium St. Patrick's Day Parade. Other parades the we have appeared in over the years include the Savannah, New Orleans, and New York City parades.
In 1997, our name was changed to the Shamrock Club Color Guard, Pipes and Drums to reflect our new status as a pipe band, as well as a ceremonial and honor guard. In April, 2001, our longtime director, Chuck McLaughlin, retired from our ranks. His leadership and vision made us a world class organization.
Jim Dickmann took over the reins of the Color Guard until January, 2003. At that point, Richard Pfeiffer became the third director of the Color Guard. Under the direction of Richard Pfeiffer, the group made appearances in Savannah, GA, St Patrick's Day Parades for 2 years in a row. They also marched in San Antonio, TX. In September, 2009, Richard Pfeiffer stepped down as director of the SCCGPD. Dan McCormack was named his temporary successor. In December, 2009, Rand Harteau was named the new director, and Dan McCormack was named pipe major. Noel Tylla took over as pipe major in August, 2012.
WHAT DO WE DO?We are both an honor guard as well as a pipe band. We represent the Shamrock Club in parades throughout the state and country. We provide an honor guard for weddings funerals, and official receptions. We also log a few thousand miles a year in parades, carrying the flags of Ireland, the United States, and the Shamrock Club, as well as other colors. HOW CAN WE BE BOOKED?
Our director is Rand Harteau. He can be reached at 414-254-5960, or pipedirector@shamrockclubwis.com Our pipe major is Noel Tylla. She can be reached at 1-414-241-6472. She can be reached by email at Color Guard Booking and Info. Anyone who would like to share or experience the tradition, pride, honor and fun of the Unit, by being a Banner Carrier, Color Guard Pipe or Drum member - you will be made most welcome! For further information regarding parade performances, Mass, funeral, special occasion appearances or membership, please contact: Noel Tylla: Pipe Major "Everyone loves a parade" .... so come on out and cheer us on. Better yet, come join the fun and help us by carrying the banner, we always need help. We are also looking for people to become part of the Color Guard or Pipes and Drums. Don't be shy. You're never too old to start. We have members from the ages of 10 to 70 and everywhere in between.
Color Guard, Pipes and Drums ScheduleWe are updating our 2013 parade and appearance schedule. For the 20123 Shamrock Club Color Guard, Pipes and Drums Schedule, go to Color Guard 2013 Schedule
Chuck McLaughlin Retires As Color Guard DirectorIn November, 2001, Chuck McLaughlin, longtime director of the Shamrock Club Color Guard Pipes and Drums, was honored for his over twenty years of service. Congratulations on a deserved rest, Chuck, and thank you for the time you gave us.
Shamrock Club attendees at the 20th Anniversary Party of the Color Guard |
EMERALD REFLECTIONS
50th ANNIVERSARY
MILWAUKEE  Shamrock Club
club@shamrockclubwis.com |
