The objects of the Scotch-Irish Society of America are both historical and social. Its annual Congresses are designed to bring the people of this blood from all parts of America into closer personal relations, and at the same time to gather materials for a complete history of the race.

It was evident from the beginning that this double purpose could best be subserved by holding annual meetings in the various sections of the country where the Scotch-Irish constitute a strong element of the population, and where the people are desirous of entertaining the Congress. Naturally during the first years of the Society's life it was thought best to meet in localities where the race is strongest in numbers and influence. For this reason chiefly, Columbia, Tenn., was chosen as the place for the mass meeting of the race, at which the Society was organized and largely on the same account successive Congresses were held at Pittsburg, Louisville, Atlanta, and Springfield, O. These cities are the centers around which is settled a larger percentage of the race than any other places in the United States.