I love that part of the country, and you're absolutely correct when you compare it to the UK. There were a lot of English and Irish who settled in that Ohio, Kentucky, and West Virginia region (my paternal ancestors were from England). Maybe it was because it reminded them of where they came from? I've just recently gotten into Irish Trad and bluegrass. There's something so comforting, almost hypnotic about it.
Oh wow, that is really interesting. I didn't know that bit of info, but I guess it makes sense given that Dublin, OH has the Irish festival every year. I've been once and it was a really fun time. I agree about the music. There is something I really enjoy about it as well.
Dublin does St. Patrick's Day right! I miss that.