Boys Town celebrates its rich history of diversity and the achievements and contributions of its African American supporters and alumni.

In 1886, Father Edward J. Flanagan was born in Leabeg, County Roscommon, Ireland. He always considered the nearby village of Ballymoe as his hometown.

Father Flanagan believed active participation in the political process and voting was important so he set up a system of self-government and elections at Boys Town.

Father Flanagan’s life’s work continues to inspire, and impact countless lives through the transformative mission of Boys Town, over 100 years later.