2004 Saint Patrick's Day Queen

Jennifer Callahan New Parade Queen

Jennifer Callahan, a 23 year old from Oak Lawn, IL, was crowned queen of Chicago's 49th Annual Saint Patrick's parade on Sunday, February 22nd, 2004 in the Stephen M. Bailey Auditorium of the Plumbers Union Hall, 1340 W. Washington Blvd., Chicago.

This year's Queen is a graduate of Mother McAuley High School and Miami University of Ohio. She presently resides in Chicagoland where she is a real estate broker and a student at John Marshall Law School.

Jennifer is the daughter of Jerry and Peggy Callahan of Oak Lawn, IL. Jennifer is one of six children. She has four sisters; Kati, Lori, Liz and Courtney and one brother Michael.

Queens Court Selected

Queen and her Court

Joining her in the queen's court this year (pictured above from left to right) are; 23 year old Megan Hickey of Chicago, 26 year old Bridget McLaughlinof Chicago, Queen Jennifer Callahan, 22 year old Mary Dignan of Chicago and 20 year old Mary Kate Downs of Orland Park. The queen rides in an authentic Irish jaunting cart in the parade. She is followed in the parade by her court riding in convertable cars. After the parade the queen and her court continue to make appearances on behalf of the parade.

Traditionally the St. Patrick's Day Parade Queen and her court participate in Irish events around Chicago and receive many valuable prizes including a trip to Ireland and Waterford crystal.

The judges of the queen contest include prominent Chicagoans of Irish heritage. The judges look for the qualities of grace, sincerity, beauty, sense of humor, poise, personality and wit in making their choices.

Photos of the Queen and her court can be obtained by calling the Plumbing Council office at 312-263-6612.