THE HISTORY OF THE FSOS
The original chapter of this organization is located in Old Bridge , NJ. While the migration of Northern New Jersey residents to the Jersey Shore took place, a large number of Irish Americans from the northern cities and towns came down to what is known as “The Irish Riviera”. A Group of stout Irishmen from the North, led by Founding President George McCormack, and men originally from Monmouth County, joined together and petitioned the “Father Club” for a charter for Belmar.

The “Father Club” in Old Bridge granted a charter to our organization in June of 1991. In the early days of the organization, the men would meet once a week anywhere they could find a hall. Meetings were held in firehouses, taverns, and finally the Belmar Elks Club. The Belmar Elk’s Club was instrumental in helping this organization flourish, by giving the membership a steady place to meet every month. The meetings were held at the Elks from 1992 through 1997.
 

In 1997, with a membership of approximately 150 members, the organization opened it’s clubhouse and the membership finally had a home to call it’s own. Since those early days the club has grown and flourished to approximately 1300 members from all walks of life. In January of 2000 the club was closed down for five weeks as members of the organization worked together and renovated the entire clubhouse. The building is dedicated to our Founding Member and President, George McCormack. The upstairs meeting hall was renamed ‘The Donald Wuelfing Room” after the passing of our beloved Treasurer Donald Wuelfing. The Taproom was named “The John “Jack” Carr Taproom” in honor of our deceased former Bar Manager. They are truly missed.

The club, which is a Not-for-Profit Organization, is proud to sponsor many charitable events in support of Children’s activities such as Little League, Basketball teams, Sailing, NJ Special Olympics as well as other local charitable events. The club also sponsors a yearly Toy Drive for the Jersey Shore Medical Center, Monmouth Medical Center, Monmouth County 180 Turning Lives Around and the Madonna House to name a few. Each year the club is happy to Co-Sponsor, along with the Lakewood Blue Claws Minor League Baseball team, Irish Heritage night at their Stadium. The Club has also created “The Foundation of the Friendly Sons of the Shillelagh of the Jersey Shore” which is a Tax – Free foundation to handle the charitable activities of the Organization. All Donations to this foundation are Tax – Deductible.