What Drives Us
Welcome to Forty Thieves Tours — where every step takes you on a fun and fascinating journey through New York’s incredible Irish past! We’re here to make history come alive with our passion for storytelling and our knack for uncovering the hidden gems that make Manhattan’s Irish heritage so vibrant.
Why Walk with Us
We’re not just tour guides; we’re history enthusiasts who can’t wait to share our love for New York’s rich and dynamic past. Our guides are brimming with stories, laughter, and a genuine zest for showing you the magic behind the city’s landmarks. From the cobblestone streets of colonial New Amsterdam to the towering skyscrapers of modern Manhattan, there is a wealth of remarkable sights and history to explore.
Our Mission
We believe history should be accessible, engaging, and fun for everyone. Whether you’re a die-hard history buff, a curious traveler, or a local eager to see your city in a new light, our tours are crafted to educate, entertain, and inspire. We meticulously design each tour to showcase the stories and spots that have shaped New York into the cultural melting pot it is today.
What's in Store?
Join us as we meander through historic landmarks, uncover hidden treasures, and delve into the tales of the folks who made New York their home. With Forty Thieves Tours, you’ll experience the city in a whole new way!
Explore the past, enjoy the present, and be part of New York’s future with us. Every corner has a story, and we can’t wait to share it with you! So lace up your walking shoes and book your spot on our walking tour today!
Meet Earl
Founder of Forty Thieves Tours
Earl’s journey into the world of tour guiding began with a spark of curiosity and a passion for the rich history of New York City. When growing up in Ireland, Earl was always fascinated by the stories and landmarks that shaped the city, yet he noticed a gap in how these stories were being shared with the public. There was no one quite doing what he envisioned—a blend of personal anecdotes and detailed historical narratives. This niche opportunity was something he decided to explore.
Earl’s initial steps into this venture were serendipitous. He worked at a local bar frequented by tourists, and he often found himself engaging with customers who were eager to learn more about the city. One evening, a couple asked him about St. Patrick’s Cathedral. Earl surprised them by sharing the lesser-known fact that the original St. Patrick’s Cathedral was actually located downtown. Intrigued by this piece of history, the couple returned the next night, hungry for more stories. Earl obliged, jotting down a list of historical sites and stories on the back of an envelope.
As these interactions became more frequent, Earl realized he had a knack for this. During his cleanup shifts downstairs at the bar, it clicked—this was something he was naturally good at. He started to think seriously about turning this informal sharing of knowledge into a structured tour business.
What began as casual conversations at a bar evolved into a thriving business. Earl’s tours became known for their authenticity and depth, attracting both locals and tourists eager to see New York through his eyes. His journey from bartender to tour guide was a testament to his passion, ingenuity, and the power of following one’s natural inclinations.
