Worn by Ed Koch (American, 1924 – 2013)

Irish sweater worn by Ed Koch in the St. Patrick's Day Parade, 1978-1989

Place madeIreland

Wool

Overall: 32 × 54 in. (81.3 × 137.2 cm)

Gift of Edward I. Koch

2013.4

This Irish sweater was worn by New York City mayor Ed Koch (1924-2013) when he marched in the annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade. During the twelve years he served as mayor of the city (1978-1989), Koch donned the sweater to show his support for New York City’s Irish Americans. Koch, of Jewish ethnicity, used to joke that his name was “Ed O’Koch” on that day. The cream-colored wool hand-knit sweater with cable patterns is a traditional Aran sweater, popularly known as a fisherman’s sweater. Koch’s sweater is a turtleneck style. According to the former mayor, he purchased it in Ireland for the express purpose of wearing it in the annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade.

DescriptionCream-colored wool hand-knit turtleneck sweater with cable patterns (Aran sweater).

MarkingsLabel printed: "Glencairn Regd. / Hand-knitted in the Donegal Highlands / Made in the Republic of Ireland

ClassificationsCLOTHING AND FASHION